Refrigerating device

Abstract

To solve the problem in an adsorption type refrigeration cycle in which a difference between the pressure in a high-pressure region of a refrigerant flow passage and the pressure in a low-pressure region of the refrigerant flow passage is preferably reduced as soon as possible when the refrigerant flow passage is switched.SOLUTION: A refrigerating device 100 comprises a refrigerant flow passage 111, a compressor 131, a first adsorber 121, a second adsorber 122, a switching mechanism 135, a bypass flow passage 211, a bypass valve 212, and a control unit 105. The first adsorber 121 and the second adsorber 122 each comprise an adsorbent 181. The bypass flow passage 211 connects the first adsorber 121 and the second adsorber 122 without passing through the compressor 131. The bypass valve 212 opens and closes the bypass flow passage 211. The switching mechanism 135 can switch the refrigerant flow passage 111 between a first state in which the inside of the first adsorber 121 is put into a high-pressure state and the inside of the second adsorber 122 is put into a low-pressure state, and a second state in which the inside of the first adsorber 121 is put into the low-pressure state and the inside of the second adsorber 122 is put into the high-pressure state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Regarding refrigeration equipment. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, refrigeration systems equipped with an adsorption refrigeration cycle have been used. Patent Document 1 (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2023 / 0417459) discloses an example of such a refrigeration system, which includes a heat source circuit having a pair of adsorbers that alternately adsorb and desorb a refrigerant, and a user circuit through which a heat medium circulates to recover the heat of adsorption or desorption of the refrigerant. The heat source circuit alternates between a mode in which the refrigerant is adsorbed by one adsorber and desorbed by the other adsorber, and a mode in which the refrigerant is desorbed by the one adsorber and adsorbed by the other adsorber. This allows the user circuit to continuously recover heat from the heat source circuit using the heat medium. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] The refrigerant flow path for an adsorption refrigeration cycle has a high-pressure region communicating with an adsorber where the refrigerant is adsorbed and a low-pressure region communicating with an adsorber where the refrigerant is desorbed. The high-pressure region becomes a low-pressure region when the mode is switched. The low-pressure region becomes a high-pressure region when the mode is switched. Thus, when the mode is switched, the high-pressure region and the low-pressure region must be reversed. Therefore, in order to quickly transition to the next mode when the mode is switched, it is preferable to reduce the difference in pressure between the high-pressure region and the low-pressure region as quickly as possible. [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] A refrigeration apparatus according to a first aspect includes a refrigerant flow path through which a refrigerant flows, a compressor, a first adsorbent, a second adsorbent, a switching mechanism, a bypass flow path, an opening / closing mechanism, and a control unit. The compressor draws in and compresses low-pressure refrigerant, and discharges it as high-pressure refrigerant. The first and second adsorbents have adsorbents that adsorb and desorb the refrigerant according to changes in the refrigerant pressure. The first and second adsorbents recover hot heat generated when the adsorbent adsorbs the refrigerant, and cold heat generated when the adsorbent desorbs the refrigerant. The bypass flow path connects the first and second adsorbents without passing through the compressor. The opening / closing mechanism opens and closes the bypass flow path. The control unit controls the compressor, the switching mechanism, and the opening / closing mechanism. The switching mechanism is capable of switching the refrigerant flow path between a first state and a second state. In the first state, the discharge side of the compressor is connected to the first adsorber to create a high-pressure state inside the first adsorber, and the suction side of the compressor is connected to the second adsorber to create a low-pressure state inside the second adsorber. In the second state, the suction side of the compressor is connected to the first adsorber to create a low-pressure state inside the first adsorber, and the discharge side of the compressor is connected to the second adsorber to create a high-pressure state inside the second adsorber.

[0005] The refrigeration device of the first aspect can increase capacity per unit time by temporarily opening the bypass flow path when switching the refrigerant flow path, thereby shortening the time it takes for the pressure in the first adsorption device and the second adsorption device to reach the adsorption pressure or desorption pressure.

[0006] A refrigeration apparatus according to a second aspect is the refrigeration apparatus according to the first aspect, wherein the opening and closing mechanism is a valve.

[0007] A refrigeration device of a third aspect is the refrigeration device of the second aspect, in which the control unit stops the compressor, then switches the refrigerant flow path between a first state and a second state, and then starts the compressor. The control unit opens the valve after stopping the compressor and before starting the compressor. After opening the valve, the control unit closes the valve after switching the refrigerant flow path between the first state and the second state and before starting the compressor.

[0008] A refrigeration apparatus according to a fourth aspect is the refrigeration apparatus according to the second aspect, wherein the control unit opens the valve, then switches the refrigerant flow path between the first state and the second state, and then closes the valve.

[0009] A refrigeration apparatus according to a fifth aspect is the refrigeration apparatus according to the first aspect, wherein the opening and closing mechanism is an expander.

[0010] A refrigeration device of a sixth aspect is the refrigeration device of the fifth aspect, wherein the expander recovers energy while the compressor is stopped. The control unit stops the compressor, then switches the refrigerant flow path between a first state and a second state, and then starts the compressor. The control unit starts the expander after stopping the compressor and before starting the compressor. After starting the expander, the control unit stops the expander after switching the refrigerant flow path between the first state and the second state and before starting the compressor.

[0011] A seventh aspect of the present invention is a refrigeration apparatus according to the fifth aspect, wherein the expander recovers energy while the compressor is operating. The control unit starts the expander, then switches the refrigerant flow path between a first state and a second state, and then stops the expander.

[0012] The refrigeration apparatus of an eighth aspect is the refrigeration apparatus of the sixth aspect or the seventh aspect, wherein the expander converts the recovered energy into electrical energy.

[0013] A ninth aspect of the present invention is the refrigeration apparatus of the sixth or seventh aspect, wherein the expander converts the recovered energy into kinetic energy.

[0014] A refrigeration device according to a tenth aspect is the refrigeration device according to any one of the first to ninth aspects, wherein the adsorbent includes a metal-organic framework including metal ions and organic ligands.

[0015] A refrigeration apparatus according to an eleventh aspect is the refrigeration apparatus according to any one of the first to tenth aspects, wherein the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow passage is selected from the group consisting of carbon dioxide, hydrocarbon refrigerant, ammonia, and water. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0016] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration device 100 of a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram of a refrigeration device 100 of a first embodiment. [Figure 3] 2 is a schematic diagram of a first adsorption device 121 and a second adsorption device 122 of the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 4] 4 is a flowchart of control in a first operation mode of the first embodiment. [Figure 5] 5 is a flowchart of control in a second operation mode according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration device 100 according to a second embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a refrigeration device 100 according to a second embodiment. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart of control in a first operation mode according to a second embodiment. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart of control in a second operation mode according to a second embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration device 100 according to a modified example A. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a refrigeration device 100 according to a modified example A. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration device 100 according to a modified example B. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] -First embodiment- (1) Overall configuration of the refrigeration device 100 As shown in FIG. 1 , the refrigeration apparatus 100 of the first embodiment includes a heat source side circuit 101 and a user side circuit 102. The heat source side circuit 101 has a refrigerant flow path 111 through which a refrigerant flows and a bypass flow path 211 through which a refrigerant flows. The user side circuit 102 has a heat medium flow path 112 through which a heat medium flows. In FIG. 1 , the refrigerant flow path 111 and the bypass flow path 211 are depicted with bold lines. The refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path 111 and the bypass flow path 211 is selected from the group consisting of, for example, carbon dioxide, hydrocarbon refrigerant, ammonia, and water. The hydrocarbon refrigerant is selected from the group consisting of, for example, propane, butane, and isobutane. The heat medium flowing through the heat medium flow path 112 is selected from the group consisting of, for example, water, brine, and air. Brine is a liquid with a freezing point of 0° C. or lower. The refrigeration apparatus 100 is, for example, an air conditioner.

[0018] The refrigeration apparatus 100 further includes a control unit 105. As shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 105 controls the operation of each element constituting the heat source side circuit 101 and the utilization side circuit 102. Here, a processor is illustrated as an example of the control unit 105. The processor is made up of various computing devices such as a central processing unit (CPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), and a graphics processing unit (GPU). The processor reads various programs of the apparatus into memory and executes them. The processor loads programs stored in memory into a working area of ​​the memory, executes them, and realizes functions that meet a predetermined purpose by controlling each component, etc. through the execution of the programs.

[0019] (1-1) Heat source side circuit 101 The heat source side circuit 101 constitutes a refrigeration cycle that functions as a heat pump that utilizes heat (hot heat or cold heat) generated when the refrigerant is adsorbed to or desorbed from the adsorbent.

[0020] The heat source side circuit 101 has a compressor 131, a first adsorption device 121, a second adsorption device 122, and a switching mechanism 135. The refrigerant flow path 111 connects the compressor 131, the first adsorption device 121, the second adsorption device 122, and the switching mechanism 135.

[0021] The compressor 131 compresses the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path 111. The compressor 131 is, for example, a rotary compressor. The compressor 131 draws in low-pressure refrigerant from the refrigerant flow path 111, compresses it, and discharges it into the refrigerant flow path 111 as high-pressure refrigerant. The low-pressure refrigerant is the refrigerant in the refrigerant flow path 111 before being compressed by the compressor 131. The high-pressure refrigerant is the refrigerant in the refrigerant flow path 111 after being compressed by the compressor 131. During operation of the compressor 131, lubricating oil sealed in the refrigerant flow path 111 is supplied to the sliding parts of the compressor 131. A portion of the lubricating oil is accumulated at the bottom of the casing of the compressor 131.

[0022] The first adsorbent 121 and the second adsorbent 122 have adsorbents that adsorb and desorb the refrigerant. In the first adsorbent 121 and the second adsorbent 122, the heat of adsorption or desorption heat is recovered by the heat medium flowing through the heat medium flow path 112. The heat of adsorption is hot heat generated when the adsorbent adsorbs the refrigerant. The heat of desorption is cold heat generated when the adsorbent desorbs the refrigerant. The generation of hot heat refers to an increase in the temperature of the heat medium due to the heat medium absorbing heat. The generation of cold heat refers to a decrease in the temperature of the heat medium due to the heat absorption from the heat medium. The first adsorbent 121 and the second adsorbent 122 are connected to the switching mechanism 135 in the refrigerant flow path 111.

[0023] The switching mechanism 135 switches the flow direction of the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path 111. The switching mechanism 135 is, for example, a four-way switching valve. The switching mechanism 135 is configured to be able to switch the refrigerant flow path 111 between a first state in which the flow direction is indicated by the solid line in FIG. 1 and a second state in which the flow direction is indicated by the dashed line in FIG. 1. In the first state, the discharge side of the compressor 131 is connected to the first adsorption device 121, and the suction side of the compressor 131 is connected to the second adsorption device 122. In the second state, the discharge side of the compressor 131 is connected to the second adsorption device 122, and the suction side of the compressor 131 is connected to the first adsorption device 121.

[0024] The control unit 105 controls the compressor 131 and the switching mechanism 135. The control unit 105 controls the rotation speed of the compressor 131. The control unit 105 controls the timing to start the compressor 131 and the timing to stop the compressor 131. The control unit 105 controls the switching mechanism 135 to switch the refrigerant flow path 111 between a first state and a second state.

[0025] The control unit 105 controls the switching mechanism 135 so that the period during which the refrigerant flow path 111 is in the first state and the period during which the refrigerant flow path 111 is in the second state are the same length. However, the control unit 105 may also control the switching mechanism 135 so that the period during which the refrigerant flow path 111 is in the first state and the period during which the refrigerant flow path 111 is in the second state are different lengths. The period during which the refrigerant flow path 111 is in the first state is the period from the time when the refrigerant flow path 111 switches to the first state to the time when it switches to the second state. The period during which the refrigerant flow path 111 is in the second state is the period from the time when the refrigerant flow path 111 switches to the second state to the time when it switches to the first state.

[0026] The bypass flow path 211 connects the first adsorption device 121 and the second adsorption device 122 without passing through the compressor 131. The bypass flow path 211 connects the first adsorption device 121 and the second adsorption device 122 in the refrigerant flow path 111.

[0027] The heat source side circuit 101 further includes a bypass valve 212, which is an opening / closing mechanism that opens and closes the bypass flow path 211. The bypass valve 212 is, for example, a solenoid valve. The bypass valve 212 is attached to a pipe in the bypass flow path 211 through which the refrigerant flows.

[0028] The control unit 105 controls the opening and closing of the bypass valve 212 to allow or block the flow of the refrigerant in the bypass flow path 211 .

[0029] (1-2) User side circuit 102 The utilization-side circuit 102 functions as a heat transfer means for utilizing, via a heat medium, the heat generated in the heat source-side circuit 101. The heat medium flowing through the heat medium flow path 112 transfers the heat of adsorption or desorption recovered in the first adsorption device 121 or the second adsorption device 122 to a predetermined location.

[0030] The utilization side circuit 102 includes a first fluid pump 141, a first heat exchanger 142, a first fan 143, a first adsorber 121, a second fluid pump 151, a second heat exchanger 152, a second fan 153, a second adsorber 122, and flow path changing units 156-159. The heat medium flow path 112 connects the first fluid pump 141, the first heat exchanger 142, the first adsorber 121, the second fluid pump 151, the second heat exchanger 152, the second adsorber 122, and the flow path changing units 156-159.

[0031] The first fluid pump 141 sends the heat medium to the first heat exchanger 142. The first heat exchanger 142 exchanges heat between the heat medium and air. The first fan 143 generates a flow of air passing through the first heat exchanger 142 so that heat exchange occurs in the first heat exchanger 142.

[0032] The second fluid pump 151 sends the heat medium to the second heat exchanger 152. The second heat exchanger 152 exchanges heat between the heat medium and air. The second fan 153 generates a flow of air passing through the second heat exchanger 152 so that heat exchange occurs in the second heat exchanger 152.

[0033] The flow path changing units 156-159 change the connection state of the heat medium flow path 112 to change the flow path through which the heat medium flows. The flow path changing units 156-159 are, for example, three-way switching valves. The flow path changing units 156-159 are configured to be able to switch the heat medium flow path 112 between a third connection state indicated by the solid line in FIG. 1 and a fourth connection state indicated by the dashed line in FIG. 1.

[0034] The heat medium flow path 112 has two independent flow paths, a first circulation path and a second circulation path, in each of the third and fourth states. The heat medium circulates through both the first and second circulation paths. In FIG. 1, the flow direction of the heat medium in the third state is indicated by a solid line, and the flow direction of the heat medium in the fourth state is indicated by a dashed line.

[0035] In the third state, the first circulation flow path connects the first fluid pump 141, the first heat exchanger 142, the flow path changing unit 156, the first adsorption device 121, and the flow path changing unit 157. In the third state, the second circulation flow path connects the second fluid pump 151, the second heat exchanger 152, the flow path changing unit 158, the second adsorption device 122, and the flow path changing unit 159.

[0036] In the fourth state, the first circulation flow path connects the first fluid pump 141, the first heat exchanger 142, the flow path changing unit 156, the second adsorption device 122, and the flow path changing unit 157. In the fourth state, the second circulation flow path connects the second fluid pump 151, the second heat exchanger 152, the flow path changing unit 158, the first adsorption device 121, and the flow path changing unit 159.

[0037] The control unit 105 controls the first fluid pump 141, the first fan 143, the second fluid pump 151, the second fan 153, and the flow path changing units 156-159. The control unit 105 controls the capacity of the first fluid pump 141 and the second fluid pump 151. The control unit 105 controls the rotation speed of the first fan 143 and the second fan 153. The control unit 105 controls the flow path changing units 156-159 to switch the heat medium flow path 112 between the third state and the fourth state.

[0038] (1-3) First adsorption device 121 and second adsorption device 122 The first adsorption device 121 and the second adsorption device 122 each include a heat recovery member, an adsorption material, and a casing. The first adsorption device 121 and the second adsorption device 122 each have a first space through which a refrigerant flows and a second space through which a heat medium flows. The first space is part of the refrigerant flow path 111. The second space is part of the heat medium flow path 112. The first space and the second space do not communicate with each other.

[0039] The heat recovery member separates the first space from the second space. The adsorbent is provided in the first space. The adsorbent adsorbs and desorbs the refrigerant in the first space in response to changes in the pressure of the refrigerant in the first space. The adsorbent is supported on a first surface, which is a surface of the heat recovery member.

[0040] The adsorbent supported on the first surface includes a metal-organic framework (MOF) containing metal ions and organic ligands. A metal-organic framework is a porous material with a very large specific surface area obtained by the reaction of metal ions with organic ligands. In a metal-organic framework, organic ligands are linked to metal ions to obtain a polymer structure with numerous openings inside. The opening size and topology of a metal-organic framework can be adjusted by selecting and combining metal ions and organic ligands. Therefore, the opening size of a metal-organic framework can be adjusted by selecting and combining metal ions and organic ligands, and it can selectively adsorb target substances. A metal-organic framework can be used, for example, as a porous material capable of selectively storing and separating molecules and ions.

[0041] In the refrigeration device 100, the metal-organic framework is used as an adsorbent for adsorbing and desorbing the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path 111. Examples of the metal-organic framework include MOF-5, MOF-200, UiO-66, and MIL-101. The adsorbent used in the refrigeration device 100 is, for example, a powder of the metal-organic framework or a molded product of the metal-organic framework. In this case, the adsorbent is supported on the first surface by adhering a mixture of the adsorbent and a binder to the first surface. Examples of the binder include an acrylic resin, a polyester resin, a polyolefin resin, and a polyurethane resin.

[0042] The heat recovery member is a cross-fin type. As shown in FIG. 3, the heat recovery member includes a plurality of fins 161 and heat transfer tubes 162. Each heat transfer tube 162 has a plurality of straight tube portions 162a extending linearly and a folded portion 162b connecting two straight tube portions 162a. In FIG. 3, the thickness of the heat transfer tube 162 is omitted. Each of the fins 161 has through holes in its thickness direction through which the straight tube portions 162a of the heat transfer tube 162 penetrate. The fins 161 are stacked around the straight tube portions 162a of the heat transfer tube 162 at predetermined intervals along the direction in which the straight tube portions 162a extend. A first end 162c and a second end 162d of the heat transfer tube 162 are connected to the heat medium flow path 112. The fins 161 and the heat transfer tubes 162 are housed in a casing 163. The casing 163 has a first opening 163a connected to the refrigerant flow path 111 and a second opening 163b connected to the bypass flow path 211.

[0043] The refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path 111 passes through the first opening 163a to flow into the inside of the casing 163, and passes through the first opening 163a to flow out of the casing 163. The heat medium flowing through the heat medium flow path 112 passes through the first end 162c to flow into the inside of the heat transfer tube 162, and passes through the second end 162d to flow out of the heat transfer tube 162.

[0044] The bypass flow path 211 connects the second opening 163b of the first adsorption device 121 and the second opening 163b of the second adsorption device 122. The bypass flow path 211 connects the first space 164a of the first adsorption device 121 and the first space 164a of the second adsorption device 122.

[0045] As shown in FIG. 3 , the first space 164a through which the refrigerant flows is a space inside the casing 163 and outside the heat transfer tube 162. The second space 164b through which the heat medium flows is a space inside the casing 163 and inside the heat transfer tube 162. The first surface 182, on which the adsorbent 181 that adsorbs and desorbs the adsorbent is supported, includes at least a portion of the outer surfaces of the multiple fins 161 and the heat transfer tube 162. The first surface 182 is, for example, the surfaces of the multiple fins 161 and the outer surface of the heat transfer tube 162. The first surface 182 is in contact with the first space 164a. Therefore, the refrigerant in the first space 164a comes into contact with the adsorbent 181 supported on the first surface 182.

[0046] The adsorbent 181 adsorbs the refrigerant in the first space 164a when the pressure of the refrigerant in the first space 164a is equal to or higher than the adsorption pressure. The adsorbent 181 desorbs the refrigerant in the first space 164a when the pressure of the refrigerant in the first space 164a is equal to or lower than the desorption pressure. The adsorption pressure is the minimum value of the range of pressures at which the adsorbent 181 can adsorb the refrigerant at the temperature of the first space 164a. The desorption pressure is the maximum value of the range of pressures at which the adsorbent 181 can desorb the refrigerant at the temperature of the first space 164a. The adsorption pressure and desorption pressure vary depending on the type of adsorbent 181 and the refrigerant.

[0047] (2) Operation of the Refrigeration Device 100 The operation of the refrigeration apparatus 100 will be described assuming that the refrigeration apparatus 100 is an air conditioner. In this case, the first heat exchanger 142 is an indoor heat exchanger, and the second heat exchanger 152 is an outdoor heat exchanger.

[0048] The adsorbent 181 of the first adsorption device 121 and the second adsorption device 122 adsorbs and desorbs the refrigerant in the refrigerant flow path 111. The adsorbent 181 adsorbs the refrigerant when it is in contact with a refrigerant whose pressure is equal to or higher than the adsorption pressure in the first space 164a. The adsorbent 181 desorbs the refrigerant when it is in contact with a refrigerant whose pressure is equal to or lower than the desorption pressure in the first space 164a.

[0049] When the refrigerant flow path 111 is in the first state, it is possible to connect the discharge side of the compressor 131 to the first adsorber 121 to create a high-pressure state inside the first adsorber 121, and to connect the suction side of the compressor 131 to the second adsorber 122 to create a low-pressure state inside the second adsorber 122. When the inside of the first adsorber 121 is in a high-pressure state, the adsorbent 181 of the first adsorber 121 is in contact with a high-pressure refrigerant in the first space 164a. When the inside of the second adsorber 122 is in a low-pressure state, the adsorbent 181 of the second adsorber 122 is in contact with a low-pressure refrigerant in the first space 164a.

[0050] When the refrigerant flow path 111 is in the second state, the suction side of the compressor 131 and the first adsorber 121 can be connected to place the first adsorber 121 in a low-pressure state, and the discharge side of the compressor 131 and the second adsorber 122 can be connected to place the second adsorber 122 in a high-pressure state. When the first adsorber 121 is in a low-pressure state, the adsorbent 181 of the first adsorber 121 is in contact with the low-pressure refrigerant in the first space 164a. When the second adsorber 122 is in a high-pressure state, the adsorbent 181 of the second adsorber 122 is in contact with the high-pressure refrigerant in the first space 164a.

[0051] The following describes changes in the adsorption amount, which is the amount of refrigerant adsorbed by the adsorbent 181, when the refrigerant flow path 111 is in the first state. When the switching mechanism 135 switches from the second state to the first state, the adsorption amount of the adsorbent 181 in the first adsorption device 121 is the first adsorption amount, and the adsorption amount of the adsorbent 181 in the second adsorption device 122 is the second adsorption amount. The second adsorption amount is larger than the first adsorption amount. The second adsorption amount is the maximum amount of refrigerant that can be adsorbed by the adsorbent 181. The second adsorption amount includes not only the theoretical maximum amount but also an amount that can change depending on the time the high-pressure pressure or high-pressure state is maintained. The pressure of the high-pressure refrigerant is equal to or higher than the adsorption pressure, and the pressure of the low-pressure refrigerant is equal to or lower than the desorption pressure.

[0052] When the refrigerant flow path 111 is in the first state, the adsorbent 181 in the first adsorber 121 contacts a high-pressure refrigerant, and the adsorbent 181 in the second adsorber 122 contacts a low-pressure refrigerant. In the first adsorber 121, the adsorbent 181 gradually adsorbs the refrigerant, releasing heat in the process. In the second adsorber 122, the adsorbent 181 gradually desorbs the refrigerant, absorbing heat in the process. Therefore, the adsorption amount of the adsorbent 181 in the first adsorber 121 increases from the first adsorption amount to the second adsorption amount, and the adsorption amount of the adsorbent 181 in the second adsorber 122 decreases from the second adsorption amount to the first adsorption amount.

[0053] The following describes a change in the adsorption amount, which is the amount of refrigerant adsorbed by the adsorbent 181, when the refrigerant flow path 111 is in the second state. When the switching mechanism 135 switches from the first state to the second state, the adsorption amount of the adsorbent 181 in the first adsorption device 121 is the second adsorption amount, and the adsorption amount of the adsorbent 181 in the second adsorption device 122 is the first adsorption amount.

[0054] When the refrigerant flow path 111 is in the second state, the adsorbent 181 in the first adsorbent 121 contacts the low-pressure refrigerant, and the adsorbent 181 in the second adsorbent 122 contacts the high-pressure refrigerant. In the first adsorbent 121, the adsorbent 181 gradually desorbs the refrigerant, absorbing heat in the process. In the second adsorbent 122, the adsorbent 181 gradually adsorbs the refrigerant, releasing heat in the process. Therefore, the adsorption amount of the adsorbent 181 in the first adsorbent 121 decreases from the second adsorption amount to the first adsorption amount, and the adsorption amount of the adsorbent 181 in the second adsorbent 122 increases from the first adsorption amount to the second adsorption amount.

[0055] When the refrigerant flow path 111 is in the first state and the heat medium flow path 112 is in the third state, in the first adsorption device 121, hot heat generated in the process in which the adsorbent 181 adsorbs the refrigerant in the first space 164a is recovered by the heat medium in the second space 164b. On the other hand, in the second adsorption device 122, cold heat generated in the process in which the adsorbent 181 desorbs the refrigerant adsorbed by the adsorbent 181 is recovered by the heat medium in the second space 164b. Therefore, in the first adsorption device 121, hot heat is recovered by the heat medium flowing through the first circulation flow path, and in the second adsorption device 122, cold heat is recovered by the heat medium flowing through the second circulation flow path.

[0056] Thereafter, when the adsorption amount of the adsorbent 181 in the first adsorption device 121 reaches the second adsorption amount, it becomes difficult for the adsorbent 181 in the first adsorption device 121 to adsorb the refrigerant. When this state is reached, the refrigerant flow path 111 is switched from the first state to the second state, and the heat medium flow path 112 is switched from the third state to the fourth state.

[0057] When the refrigerant flow path 111 is in the second state and the heat medium flow path 112 is in the fourth state, in the second adsorption device 122, hot heat generated in the process of the adsorbent 181 adsorbing the refrigerant in the first space 164a is recovered by the heat medium in the second space 164b. On the other hand, in the first adsorption device 121, cold heat generated in the process of the adsorbent 181 desorbing the refrigerant adsorbed by the adsorbent 181 is recovered by the heat medium in the second space 164b. Therefore, in the first adsorption device 121, cold heat is recovered by the heat medium flowing through the second circulation flow path, and in the second adsorption device 122, hot heat is recovered by the heat medium flowing through the first circulation flow path.

[0058] Thereafter, when the adsorption amount of the adsorbent 181 in the second adsorption device 122 reaches the second adsorption amount, it becomes difficult for the adsorbent 181 in the second adsorption device 122 to adsorb the refrigerant. When this state is reached, the refrigerant flow path 111 is switched from the second state to the first state, and the heat medium flow path 112 is switched from the fourth state to the third state.

[0059] As described above, by alternately switching the refrigerant flow path 111 between the first state and the second state, it is possible to continuously adsorb or desorb the refrigerant to the adsorbent 181 in either the first adsorber 121 or the second adsorber 122. By alternately switching the heat medium flow path 112 between the third state and the fourth state in accordance with the switching between the first state and the second state, it is possible to continuously collect, by the heat medium flowing through the first circulation flow path, the hot heat generated when the adsorbent 181 adsorbs the refrigerant. By alternately switching the heat medium flow path 112 between the third state and the fourth state in accordance with the switching between the first state and the second state, it is possible to continuously collect, by the heat medium flowing through the first circulation flow path, the cold heat generated when the adsorbent 181 desorbs the refrigerant.

[0060] Therefore, the refrigeration device 100 can continuously supply the heat medium heated by the recovered hot heat or cooled by the recovered cold heat to the first heat exchanger 142 connected to the first circulation flow path. The air that has exchanged heat with the heat medium in the first heat exchanger 142 is sent to a predetermined location by the first fan 143.

[0061] (3) Operation mode of the refrigeration device 100 The refrigeration apparatus 100 has a plurality of operating modes. The plurality of operating modes includes a first operating mode, a second operating mode, and a third operating mode. The plurality of operating modes may include only one of the first operating mode and the second operating mode.

[0062] The first operation mode and the second operation mode are operation modes used when switching the refrigerant flow path 111 between a first state and a second state. The first operation mode is an operation mode that reduces the difference between the refrigerant pressure in the first adsorption device 121 and the refrigerant pressure in the second adsorption device 122 while the compressor 131 is stopped. The second operation mode is an operation mode that reduces the difference between the refrigerant pressure in the first adsorption device 121 and the refrigerant pressure in the second adsorption device 122 while the compressor 131 is operating.

[0063] The third operation mode is an operation mode during normal operation of the refrigeration system 100. The third operation mode is an operation mode that does not reduce the difference between the refrigerant pressure in the first adsorption device 121 and the refrigerant pressure in the second adsorption device 122. In the third operation mode, the bypass valve 212 is closed. In the third operation mode, the compressor 131 is operating.

[0064] When the operation mode is the third operation mode and the refrigerant flow path 111 is in the first state, the inside of the first adsorption device 121 is in a high-pressure state and the inside of the second adsorption device 122 is in a low-pressure state. When the operation mode is the third operation mode and the refrigerant flow path 111 is in the second state, the inside of the first adsorption device 121 is in a low-pressure state and the inside of the second adsorption device 122 is in a high-pressure state. Therefore, when the operation mode is the third operation mode, the pressure in the first space 164a of the first adsorption device 121 and the pressure in the first space 164a of the second adsorption device 122 are different from each other.

[0065] When the bypass valve 212 is opened to switch the refrigerant flow path 111 between the first state and the second state, the first space 164a of the first adsorber 121 and the first space 164a of the second adsorber 122 are connected to each other. This causes pressure equalization to be performed, reducing the difference in pressure between the first space 164a of the first adsorber 121 and the first space 164a of the second adsorber 122. In other words, the difference in pressure between the first adsorber 121 and the second adsorber 122 after the bypass valve 212 is opened becomes smaller than the difference in pressure between the first adsorber 121 and the second adsorber 122 before the bypass valve 212 is opened.

[0066] The control unit 105 changes the operation mode of the refrigeration device 100 while the refrigeration device 100 is operating. When switching the refrigerant flow path 111 between the first state and the second state, the control unit 105 changes the operation mode from the third operation mode to the first operation mode or the second operation mode. After changing the operation mode to the first operation mode or the second operation mode, the control unit 105 executes the first operation mode or the second operation mode. After executing the first operation mode or the second operation mode, the control unit 105 changes the operation mode to the third operation mode.

[0067] (3-1) First operation mode The control unit 105 controls the compressor 131, the switching mechanism 135, and the bypass valve 212 to execute the first operation mode. The control unit 105 performs control of steps S11 to S15 shown in Fig. 4 to execute the first operation mode. The operation mode before execution of step S11 is the third operation mode. Execution of step S11 starts the first operation mode, and execution of step S15 ends the first operation mode.

[0068] In step S11, the control unit 105 stops the compressor 131.

[0069] In step S12, the control unit 105 opens the bypass valve 212. In step S12, pressure equalization is started.

[0070] In step S13, the control unit 105 controls the switching mechanism 135 to switch the refrigerant flow path 111 between the first state and the second state.

[0071] In step S14, the control unit 105 closes the bypass valve 212. In step S14, the pressure equalization ends.

[0072] In step S15, the control unit 105 starts the compressor 131.

[0073] The control unit 105 may execute step S12 at any time after executing step S11 and before executing step S15. In this case, the control unit 105 opens the bypass valve 212 when the compressor 131 is stopped.

[0074] For example, the control unit 105 may perform step S12 and step S13 simultaneously. In other words, the control unit 105 may open the bypass valve 212 and simultaneously control the switching mechanism 135 to switch the refrigerant flow path 111 between the first state and the second state.

[0075] Furthermore, the control unit 105 may execute step S12 after executing step S13. In other words, the control unit 105 may control the switching mechanism 135 to switch the refrigerant flow path 111 between the first state and the second state, and then open the bypass valve 212.

[0076] The control unit 105 executes step S13 after stopping the compressor 131 in step S11 or after starting pressure equalization in step S12, but before the operating differential pressure decreases to a first value. The operating differential pressure is the difference between the pressure in the first adsorption device 121 and the pressure in the second adsorption device 122. The first value is the minimum value of the operating differential pressure required for the switching mechanism 135 to switch the refrigerant flow path 111 between the first state and the second state.

[0077] (3-2) Second operation mode The control unit 105 controls the switching mechanism 135 and the bypass valve 212 to execute the second operation mode. The control unit 105 performs control of steps S21 to S23 shown in Fig. 5 to execute the second operation mode. The operation mode before execution of step S21 is the third operation mode. Execution of step S21 starts the second operation mode, and execution of step S23 ends the second operation mode.

[0078] In step S21, the control unit 105 opens the bypass valve 212. In step S21, pressure equalization is started.

[0079] In step S22, the control unit 105 controls the switching mechanism 135 to switch the refrigerant flow path 111 between the first state and the second state.

[0080] In step S23, the control unit 105 closes the bypass valve 212. In step S23, the pressure equalization ends.

[0081] The control unit 105 may perform steps S21 and S22 simultaneously. In other words, the control unit 105 may open the bypass valve 212 and simultaneously control the switching mechanism 135 to switch the refrigerant flow path 111 between the first state and the second state.

[0082] After starting pressure equalization in step S21, the control unit 105 executes step S22 before the operating differential pressure decreases to the first value.

[0083] (4) Features (4-1) The refrigeration apparatus 100 includes a heat source side circuit 101 having a bypass flow path 211 and a bypass valve 212, and a control unit 105 that changes the operation mode of the refrigeration apparatus 100. When switching the refrigerant flow path 111 between a first state and a second state, the control unit 105 changes the operation mode to perform the first operation mode or the second operation mode. In the first operation mode and the second operation mode, pressure equalization is performed by temporarily opening the bypass valve 212.

[0084] When the bypass valve 212 is opened and pressure equalization is performed when the refrigerant flow path 111 switches from the first state to the second state, the pressure in the first space 164a of the first adsorption device 121 decreases and the pressure in the first space 164a of the second adsorption device 122 increases. Therefore, after switching to the second state, the time required for the pressure in the first space 164a of the first adsorption device 121 to decrease and reach the desorption pressure, and the time required for the pressure in the first space 164a of the second adsorption device 122 to increase and reach the adsorption pressure are shortened.

[0085] If the bypass valve 212 is opened and pressure equalization is performed when the refrigerant flow path 111 switches from the second state to the first state, the pressure in the first space 164a of the first adsorption device 121 increases and the pressure in the first space 164a of the second adsorption device 122 decreases. Therefore, after switching to the first state, the time required for the pressure in the first space 164a of the first adsorption device 121 to increase and reach the adsorption pressure, and the time required for the pressure in the first space 164a of the second adsorption device 122 to decrease and reach the desorption pressure are shortened.

[0086] By repeatedly switching the refrigerant flow path 111 between the first state and the second state, the refrigeration device 100 can continue to recover the hot and cold heat generated when the refrigerant is adsorbed onto and desorbed from the adsorbent 181 in the first adsorption device 121 and the second adsorption device 122 by the heat medium flowing through the heat medium flow path 112 of the utilization side circuit 102.

[0087] After the refrigerant flow path 111 is switched, hot heat is not generated in the first adsorption device 121 or the second adsorption device 122 until the pressure in the first adsorption device 121 or the second adsorption device 122 increases and reaches the adsorption pressure. After the refrigerant flow path 111 is switched, cold heat is not generated in the first adsorption device 121 or the second adsorption device 122 until the pressure in the first adsorption device 121 or the second adsorption device 122 decreases and reaches the desorption pressure.

[0088] Therefore, when the refrigerant flow path 111 switches between the first state and the second state, the longer it takes for the pressure in the first adsorption device 121 and the second adsorption device 122 to reach the adsorption pressure or desorption pressure, the lower the capacity per unit time of the refrigeration device 100.

[0089] The refrigeration apparatus 100 of the present embodiment can shorten the time until the pressure in the first adsorption device 121 and the second adsorption device 122 reaches the adsorption pressure or the desorption pressure by performing the first operation mode and the second operation mode. Therefore, the refrigeration apparatus 100 can increase the capacity per unit time compared to a case in which the heat source side circuit 101 does not have the bypass flow path 211 and the bypass valve 212.

[0090] (4-2) By performing the first operation mode, the control unit 105 performs pressure equalization with the compressor 131 stopped, and switches the refrigerant flow path 111 between the first state and the second state. After pressure equalization is completed, the control unit 105 starts the compressor 131. While pressure equalization is being performed, the compressor 131 is stopped and does not consume power. Therefore, the refrigeration device 100 can reduce the total operating time of the compressor 131, thereby achieving energy-saving operation and improving operating efficiency.

[0091] (4-3) By performing the second operation mode, the control unit 105 performs pressure equalization while keeping the compressor 131 operating, and switches the refrigerant flow path 111 between the first state and the second state. Therefore, the refrigeration device 100 can shorten the time it takes to return to the third operation mode after switching the refrigerant flow path 111. This allows the refrigeration device 100 to reduce the number of times the compressor 131 is stopped and started, thereby ensuring the capacity required for operation with a high thermal load. Furthermore, the refrigeration device 100 can ensure reliability by reducing damage to sliding parts when the compressor 131 is started and stopped.

[0092] -Second embodiment- The basic configuration and operation of the refrigeration device 100 of the second embodiment are the same as those of the refrigeration device 100 of the first embodiment. The main difference between the refrigeration device 100 of the second embodiment and the refrigeration device 100 of the first embodiment is the heat source side circuit 101.

[0093] (1) Configuration of the refrigeration device 100 In this embodiment, the heat source side circuit 101 does not have a bypass valve 212. Instead, as shown in Fig. 6, the heat source side circuit 101 has an expander 312, which is an opening / closing mechanism that opens and closes the bypass flow path 211. The heat source side circuit 101 also has a switching valve 235. The switching valve 235 is, for example, a four-way switching valve. The expander 312 and the switching valve 235 are attached to the piping through which the refrigerant flows in the bypass flow path 211.

[0094] When the refrigerant flow path 111 is in the first state, the switching valve 235 connects the bypass flow path 211 to the state shown by the solid line in Fig. 6. When the refrigerant flow path 111 is in the second state, the switching valve 235 connects the bypass flow path 211 to the state shown by the dashed line in Fig. 6.

[0095] The expander 312 is a device that recovers first energy by expanding the refrigerant flowing through the bypass passage 211 to generate power. The first energy is energy due to the difference in pressure between the refrigerant in the first adsorption device 121 and the refrigerant in the second adsorption device 122 when switching between the first state and the second state. The greater the difference between the refrigerant pressure in the first adsorption device 121 and the refrigerant pressure in the second adsorption device 122, the greater the first energy.

[0096] The expander 312 is, for example, a rotary fluid machine. The rotary fluid machine includes a cylinder, a piston, and an output shaft. The rotary fluid machine drives the piston by the expansion energy of the inflowing refrigerant, generating power to rotate the output shaft.

[0097] A generator 313 is connected to the output shaft of the expander 312. The generator 313 is configured to be driven by the power of the expander 312. The generator 313 is, for example, a brushless DC motor for generating electricity. A drive shaft of the compressor 131 may be connected to the output shaft of the expander 312. In this case, the compressor 131 is configured to be driven by the power of the expander 312.

[0098] When the refrigerant flow path 111 is in the first state, the inside of the first adsorption device 121 is in a high-pressure state, and the inside of the second adsorption device 122 is in a low-pressure state. In this state, if the bypass flow path 211 is open, the refrigerant in the first space 164a of the first adsorption device 121 flows through the bypass flow path 211 and into the expander 312.

[0099] When the refrigerant flow path 111 is in the second state, the inside of the first adsorption device 121 is in a low-pressure state, and the inside of the second adsorption device 122 is in a high-pressure state. In this state, if the bypass flow path 211 is open, the refrigerant in the first space 164a of the second adsorption device 122 flows through the bypass flow path 211 and into the expander 312.

[0100] 7, the control unit 105 controls the expander 312 to allow or block the flow of refrigerant in the bypass flow path 211. When the expander 312 is operating, the flow of refrigerant is allowed in the bypass flow path 211. When the expander 312 is stopped, the flow of refrigerant in the bypass flow path 211 is blocked. Furthermore, when switching the refrigerant flow path 111, the control unit 105 controls the switching valve 235 to switch the connection state of the bypass flow path 211 so that refrigerant always flows in from the inlet side of the expander 312.

[0101] (2) Operation mode of the refrigeration device 100 In this embodiment, similar to the first embodiment, the refrigeration apparatus 100 has a plurality of operation modes. The plurality of operation modes include a first operation mode, a second operation mode, and a third operation mode. In the third operation mode, the expander 312 is stopped.

[0102] When the expander 312 is started up during switching of the refrigerant flow path 111 between the first state and the second state, the first space 164a of the first adsorber 121 and the first space 164a of the second adsorber 122 are connected. This causes pressure equalization, which reduces the difference between the pressure in the first space 164a of the first adsorber 121 and the pressure in the first space 164a of the second adsorber 122. In other words, the difference between the pressure in the first adsorber 121 and the pressure in the second adsorber 122 after the expander 312 is started up is smaller than the difference between the pressure in the first adsorber 121 and the pressure in the second adsorber 122 before the expander 312 is started up. Therefore, when the expander 312 is started up during switching of the refrigerant flow path 111 between the first state and the second state, the first energy of the refrigeration apparatus 100 is recovered through pressure equalization.

[0103] (2-1) First operation mode In the first operation mode, the expander 312 recovers the first energy while the compressor 131 is stopped. The control unit 105 controls the compressor 131, the switching mechanism 135, and the expander 312 to execute the first operation mode. The control unit 105 executes the first operation mode by performing control of steps S31 to S35 shown in Fig. 8. The operation mode before execution of step S31 is the third operation mode. Execution of step S31 starts the first operation mode, and execution of step S35 ends the first operation mode.

[0104] In step S31, the control unit 105 stops the compressor 131.

[0105] In step S32, the control unit 105 starts the expander 312. In step S32, pressure equalization is started.

[0106] In step S33, the control unit 105 controls the switching mechanism 135 to switch the refrigerant flow path 111 between the first state and the second state.

[0107] In step S34, the control unit 105 stops the expander 312. In step S34, the pressure equalization ends.

[0108] In step S35, the control unit 105 starts the compressor 131.

[0109] The control unit 105 may execute step S32 at any time after executing step S31 and before executing step S35. In this case, the control unit 105 starts the expander 312 while the compressor 131 is stopped.

[0110] For example, the control unit 105 may perform step S32 and step S33 simultaneously. In other words, the control unit 105 may start the expander 312 and simultaneously control the switching mechanism 135 to switch the refrigerant flow path 111 between the first state and the second state.

[0111] Furthermore, the control unit 105 may execute step S32 after executing step S33. In other words, the control unit 105 may control the switching mechanism 135 to switch the refrigerant flow path 111 between the first state and the second state, and then start the expander 312.

[0112] After stopping the compressor 131 in step S31 or after starting pressure equalization in step S32, the control unit 105 executes step S33 before the operating differential pressure decreases to the first value.

[0113] (2-2) Second operation mode In the second operation mode, the expander 312 recovers the first energy while the compressor 131 is operating. The control unit 105 controls the switching mechanism 135 and the expander 312 to execute the second operation mode. The control unit 105 performs control of steps S41 to S43 shown in Fig. 9 to execute the second operation mode. The operation mode before execution of step S41 is the second operation mode. Execution of step S41 starts the second operation mode, and execution of step S43 ends the second operation mode.

[0114] In step S41, the control unit 105 starts the expander 312. In step S41, pressure equalization is started.

[0115] In step S42, the control unit 105 controls the switching mechanism 135 to switch the refrigerant flow path 111 between the first state and the second state.

[0116] In step S43, the control unit 105 stops the expander 312. In step S43, the pressure equalization ends.

[0117] The control unit 105 may perform step S41 and step S42 simultaneously. In other words, the control unit 105 may start the expander 312 and simultaneously control the switching mechanism 135 to switch the refrigerant flow path 111 between the first state and the second state.

[0118] After starting pressure equalization in step S41, the control unit 105 executes step S42 before the operating differential pressure decreases to the first value.

[0119] (3) Features (3-1) The refrigeration apparatus 100 includes a heat source side circuit 101 having a bypass flow path 211 and an expander 312, and a control unit 105 that changes the operation mode of the refrigeration apparatus 100. When switching the refrigerant flow path 111 between a first state and a second state, the control unit 105 changes the operation mode to perform a first operation mode or a second operation mode. In the first operation mode and the second operation mode, pressure equalization is performed while recovering a first energy by temporarily driving the expander 312.

[0120] The expander 312 is an opening / closing mechanism that opens and closes the bypass flow path 211 when performing pressure equalization, similar to the bypass valve 212 of the first embodiment. Therefore, by performing the first operation mode and the second operation mode, the refrigeration apparatus 100 of the present embodiment can perform pressure equalization while recovering the first energy and shorten the time until the pressure in the first adsorption device 121 and the second adsorption device 122 reaches the adsorption pressure or the desorption pressure. Therefore, the refrigeration apparatus 100 can increase the capacity per unit time compared to when the heat source side circuit 101 does not have the bypass flow path 211 and the expander 312.

[0121] (3-2) By operating in the first operation mode, the control unit 105 performs pressure equalization while stopping the compressor 131, and switches the refrigerant flow path 111 between the first state and the second state. Therefore, similar to the first embodiment, the refrigeration device 100 can reduce the total operating time of the compressor 131, thereby achieving energy-saving operation and improving operating efficiency.

[0122] (3-3) By performing the second operation mode, the control unit 105 performs pressure equalization while keeping the compressor 131 operating, and switches the refrigerant flow path 111 between the first state and the second state. Therefore, similar to the first embodiment, the refrigeration device 100 can reduce the number of times the compressor 131 is stopped and started, thereby ensuring the capacity required for operation with a high thermal load. Furthermore, the refrigeration device 100 can ensure reliability by reducing damage to sliding parts when the compressor 131 is started and stopped.

[0123] (3-4) When the generator 313 is connected to the output shaft of the expander 312, the expander 312 converts the recovered first energy into electrical energy. In this case, the refrigeration apparatus 100 has a configuration in which the power generated by the generator 313 is regenerated as operating power for the compressor 131, thereby reducing the power consumption of the compressor 131 and achieving energy-saving operation.

[0124] (3-5) When the compressor 131 is connected to the output shaft of the expander 312, the expander 312 converts the recovered first energy into kinetic energy. In this case, the refrigeration apparatus 100 has a configuration in which the compressor 131 is driven by the power of the expander 312, thereby reducing the power consumption of the compressor 131 and achieving energy-saving operation.

[0125] Furthermore, the refrigeration apparatus 100 may have a configuration in which elements other than the compressor 131 are driven by the power of the expander 312. For example, the refrigeration apparatus 100 may have a configuration in which the first fan 143, the second fan 153, the first fluid pump 141, and the second fluid pump 151 are driven by the power of the expander 312.

[0126] -Variation- (1) Variation A (1-1) Configuration of the Refrigeration Device 100 The basic configuration and operation of the refrigeration device 100 of this modified example are the same as those of the refrigeration device 100 of the first embodiment. The main difference between the refrigeration device 100 of this modified example and the refrigeration device 100 of the first embodiment is the heat source side circuit 101.

[0127] 10, the heat source side circuit 101 further includes a first pressure vessel 171, a second pressure vessel 172, a first valve 191, and a second valve 192. The first pressure vessel 171, the second pressure vessel 172, the first valve 191, and the second valve 192 are further connected to the refrigerant flow path 111.

[0128] The first pressure vessel 171 is connected to the discharge side of the compressor 131. The first pressure vessel 171 is provided in the refrigerant flow path 111 between the discharge side of the compressor 131 and the switching mechanism 135.

[0129] The second pressure vessel 172 is connected to the suction side of the compressor 131. The second pressure vessel 172 is provided in the refrigerant flow path 111 between the suction side of the compressor 131 and the switching mechanism 135.

[0130] The first pressure vessel 171 and the second pressure vessel 172 are vessels having an inlet and an outlet for the refrigerant. During operation of the refrigeration apparatus 100, the first pressure vessel 171 and the second pressure vessel 172 contain a refrigerant therein that flows through the refrigerant flow path 111. During operation of the refrigeration apparatus 100, the first pressure vessel 171 contains a high-pressure refrigerant therein. During operation of the refrigeration apparatus 100, the second pressure vessel 172 contains a low-pressure refrigerant therein.

[0131] The first valve 191 and the second valve 192 are, for example, electromagnetic valves. The first valve 191 and the second valve 192 are attached to a pipe in the refrigerant flow path 111 through which the refrigerant flows.

[0132] When the refrigerant flow path 111 is in a first state, the first valve 191 allows or blocks the flow of refrigerant between the first pressure vessel 171 and the first adsorber 121. When the refrigerant flow path 111 is in a second state, the first valve 191 allows or blocks the flow of refrigerant between the first pressure vessel 171 and the second adsorber 122.

[0133] When the refrigerant flow path 111 is in the first state, the second valve 192 allows or blocks the flow of refrigerant between the second pressure vessel 172 and the second adsorber 122. When the refrigerant flow path 111 is in the second state, the second valve 192 allows or blocks the flow of refrigerant between the second pressure vessel 172 and the first adsorber 121.

[0134] 11 , the control unit 105 further controls the first valve 191 and the second valve 192. The control unit 105 controls the opening and closing of the first valve 191 and the second valve 192 to allow or block the flow of refrigerant between the first adsorber 121, the second adsorber 122, the first pressure vessel 171, and the second pressure vessel 172.

[0135] (1-2) Features While the refrigerant flow path 111 is in the first state, the first pressure vessel 171 communicates with the first adsorption device 121, and the second pressure vessel 172 communicates with the second adsorption device 122. Therefore, a high-pressure refrigerant is present in the first space 164a of the first adsorption device 121, and a low-pressure refrigerant is present in the first space 164a of the second adsorption device 122.

[0136] While the refrigerant flow path 111 is in the second state, the first pressure vessel 171 communicates with the second adsorption device 122, and the second pressure vessel 172 communicates with the first adsorption device 121. Therefore, a low-pressure refrigerant is present in the first space 164a of the first adsorption device 121, and a high-pressure refrigerant is present in the first space 164a of the second adsorption device 122.

[0137] The high-pressure refrigerant in the first pressure vessel 171 and the low-pressure refrigerant in the second pressure vessel 172 shorten a first period from when the refrigerant flow path 111 switches between the first state and the second state to when the pressure in the first space 164a of the first adsorber 121 and the second adsorber 122 reaches the adsorption pressure or the desorption pressure. For example, during the first period after the refrigerant flow path 111 switches from the first state to the second state, the pressure in the first space 164a of the second adsorber 122 is lower than the adsorption pressure, and therefore no hot heat is recovered by the heat medium in the second space 164b of the second adsorber 122. Furthermore, during the first period after the refrigerant flow path 111 switches from the first state to the second state, the pressure in the first space 164a of the first adsorber 121 is higher than the desorption pressure, and therefore no cold heat is recovered by the heat medium in the second space 164b of the first adsorber 121. Therefore, the shorter the first period, the shorter the period during which the heat medium flowing through the heat medium passage 112 cannot collect hot energy and cold energy after the refrigerant passage 111 switches between the first state and the second state. In other words, the shorter the first period, the more efficiently the heat medium in the first adsorption device 121 and the second adsorption device 122 collects hot energy and cold energy.

[0138] Furthermore, by closing first valve 191 and second valve 192 for a predetermined time, control unit 105 can increase the pressure of the refrigerant in first pressure vessel 171 and decrease the pressure of the refrigerant in second pressure vessel 172, compared to when first valve 191 and second valve 192 are not closed. This shortens the first period, and allows the heat medium to recover hot and cold energy more efficiently.

[0139] Therefore, the refrigeration device 100 of this modified example can efficiently utilize the hot heat generated when the refrigerant is adsorbed onto the adsorbent 181 and the cold heat generated when the refrigerant is desorbed onto the adsorbent 181, compared to when the heat source side circuit 101 does not have the first pressure vessel 171 and the second pressure vessel 172.

[0140] This modification is applicable to Embodiment 2. In other words, in the refrigeration apparatus 100 of the second embodiment, the heat source side circuit 101 may further include a first pressure vessel 171 and a second pressure vessel 172.

[0141] (2) Variation B In the first and second embodiments, the bypass flow path 211 connects the first adsorption device 121 and the second adsorption device 122 in the refrigerant flow path 111. In other words, the bypass flow path 211 directly connects the first space 164a of the first adsorption device 121 and the first space 164a of the second adsorption device 122.

[0142] However, the position of the bypass flow path 211 is not limited as long as the bypass flow path 211 connects the first adsorber 121 and the second adsorber 122 without passing through the compressor 131. For example, as shown in Fig. 12 , the bypass flow path 211 does not need to directly connect the first space 164a of the first adsorber 121 and the first space 164a of the second adsorber 122. In this case, the bypass flow path 211 connects, in the refrigerant flow path 111, the flow path between the first adsorber 121 and the switching mechanism 135 and the flow path between the second adsorber 122 and the switching mechanism 135. Furthermore, the casings 163 of the first adsorber 121 and the second adsorber 122 do not have the second openings 163b.

[0143] (3) Variation C The adsorbent used in the refrigeration device 100 is a metal-organic framework. However, materials other than the metal-organic framework may also be used as the adsorbent. Examples of materials other than the metal-organic framework include activated carbon, zeolite-based materials, silica-based materials, and alumina-based materials.

[0144] Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, it will be understood that various changes in form and details can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0145] 100: Refrigeration equipment 105: Control unit 111: refrigerant flow path 121: 1st adsorption device 122:Second adsorption device 131: Compressor 135: Switching mechanism 181: Adsorbent 211: Bypass flow path 212: Bypass valve (valve) 312: Expander [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0146] [Patent Document 1] US Patent Application Publication No. 2023 / 0417459

Claims

1. a refrigerant flow path (111) through which a refrigerant flows; a compressor (131) that draws in a low-pressure refrigerant, compresses it, and discharges it as a high-pressure refrigerant; a first adsorption unit (121) and a second adsorption unit (122) each having an adsorption material (181) that adsorbs and desorbs a refrigerant in response to a change in the pressure of the refrigerant, and recovering hot heat generated when the adsorption material adsorbs the refrigerant and cold heat generated when the adsorption material desorbs the refrigerant; A switching mechanism (135); a bypass flow path (211) connecting the first adsorber and the second adsorber without passing through the compressor; an opening / closing mechanism that opens and closes the bypass flow path; a control unit (105) that controls the compressor, the switching mechanism, and the opening and closing mechanism; Equipped with The switching mechanism switches the refrigerant flow path a first state in which a discharge side of the compressor and the first adsorber are connected to each other to create a high-pressure state inside the first adsorber, and a suction side of the compressor and the second adsorber are connected to each other to create a low-pressure state inside the second adsorber; a second state in which the suction side of the compressor and the first adsorber are connected to each other to create a low-pressure state inside the first adsorber, and the discharge side of the compressor and the second adsorber are connected to each other to create a high-pressure state inside the second adsorber; It is possible to switch between A refrigeration device (100).

2. The opening and closing mechanism is a valve (212). The refrigeration system of claim 1.

3. The control unit stopping the compressor, then switching the refrigerant flow path between the first state and the second state, and then starting the compressor; opening the valve after stopping the compressor and before starting the compressor; After opening the valve, the refrigerant flow path is switched between the first state and the second state, and the valve is closed before starting the compressor.

3. The refrigeration system of claim 2.

4. the control unit opens the valve, then switches the refrigerant flow path between the first state and the second state, and then closes the valve.

3. The refrigeration system of claim 2.

5. The opening and closing mechanism is an expander (312). The refrigeration system of claim 1.

6. The expander recovers energy while the compressor is stopped, The control unit stopping the compressor, then switching the refrigerant flow path between the first state and the second state, and then starting the compressor; After stopping the compressor and before starting the compressor, starting the expander; After starting the expander, the refrigerant flow path is switched between the first state and the second state, and then the expander is stopped before starting the compressor.

6. The refrigeration system of claim 5.

7. The expander recovers energy while the compressor is operating, The control unit starts the expander, then switches the refrigerant flow path between the first state and the second state, and then stops the expander.

6. The refrigeration system of claim 5.

8. The expander converts the recovered energy into electrical energy.

8. The refrigeration device according to claim 6 or 7.

9. The expander converts the recovered energy into kinetic energy.

8. The refrigeration device according to claim 6 or 7.

10. The adsorbent includes a metal organic framework including a metal ion and an organic ligand.

8. A refrigeration system according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

11. The refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path is selected from the group consisting of carbon dioxide, hydrocarbon refrigerants, ammonia, and water.

8. A refrigeration system according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

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