Temperature control device for controlling fluid temperature and method for controlling fluid temperature

Abstract

To provide a highly energy-efficient temperature control device. [Solution] A temperature control device (100) for controlling the temperature of a fluid and a method for controlling the temperature of a fluid include a coil device (110) including a first coil (111s) and a second coil (112s), the coil device being configured to generate a magnetic field within a magnetic field extension region (119) between the first coil (111s) and the second coil (112s). A magnetocaloric member (120) is movably attached to the coil device, and the magnetocaloric member and the coil device are movable relative to each other along a direction angled with respect to the coaxial direction within the magnetic field extension region. Magnetocaloric temperature control of the magnetocaloric member can be performed based on a change in the magnetic field occurring during the relative movement of the coil device and the magnetocaloric member. The temperature control device further includes a heat transfer system (120) in thermal contact with the magnetocaloric member and providing heat transfer toward and / or away from the magnetocaloric member.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Various embodiments relate to a temperature control device for controlling the temperature of a fluid, uses of a temperature control device for controlling the temperature of a fluid, and methods for controlling the temperature of a fluid. [Background technology]

[0002] In general, gas can be used as an energy storage medium. To transport gas from a location where available energy is abundant (such as solar energy) to a location where available energy is scarce, it can be advantageous to liquefy the gas by a refrigeration system. Conventional refrigeration systems are generally based solely on the compression and expansion of gas, so that liquefaction of the gas can be achieved. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] For example, compressing and expanding gas is very energy intensive, especially if the goal is to liquefy the gas using conventional refrigeration systems, which can have a negative impact on the gas's energy storage capabilities.

[0004] For example, when hydrogen is liquefied using conventional refrigeration systems (so-called hydrogen liquefaction plants), more than 40% of the energy stored in the hydrogen may be used to liquefy the hydrogen. This means that energy storage using hydrogen can be relatively inefficient. Furthermore, such hydrogen liquefaction plants are typically large plants whose size may make them unsuitable for decentralized and / or mobile use (e.g., in shipping containers).

[0005] Alternatively or additionally, the refrigeration system can be based on magnetic refrigeration. Such a refrigeration system is also called a magnetic refrigeration system and can be used, for example, to liquefy a fluid (liquid, gas, etc.). In such cases, the magnetic refrigeration system may be called a magnetic condenser. Compared to the conventional refrigeration systems mentioned above, a magnetic condenser can operate at relatively low pressures. Therefore, a magnetic condenser can be operated without, for example, a compressor, which is inefficient and prone to failure.

[0006] For example, the magnetic cooling system can be based on a linear drive. In this case, temperature changes can occur by moving a magnetocaloric component back and forth in a magnetic field. However, to achieve a cooling capacity comparable to that of conventional cooling systems, it is necessary to have the largest possible magnetic field strength (and therefore a large permanent magnet). However, handling strong permanent magnets is complicated and costly. Furthermore, it is currently simply not possible to provide a sufficiently high magnetic field strength (e.g., greater than 2 T) within a sufficiently large volume (e.g., greater than 1 L) using permanent magnets alone.

[0007] For example, it is possible to control the magnetocaloric temperature of a magnetocaloric component by using a coil as a magnetic field source and moving the component back and forth inside the coil. However, this type of linear operation has the disadvantage that high operating frequencies (e.g., above 1 Hz) cannot be achieved. This is because a large magnet is required to generate high cooling capacity, and a large amount of magnetocaloric material must be used in the magnetocaloric component. However, this increases the mass of the magnetocaloric component, which increases the inertia of the magnetocaloric component and limits the maximum operating frequency.

[0008] For example, magnetic refrigeration systems based on the rotation principle are also known, in which a magnetocaloric ring rotates within a closed coil.

[0009] However, it is recognized that from various points of view, the practical implementation of such a rotating structure can be complicated: since the magnetocaloric ring needs to be guided through a coil, the magnetocaloric ring movement device has special requirements, such as ring guides, ring suspension, ring drive, seals, special media connections on the ring, etc. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] According to various aspects, an apparatus is disclosed that allows for simpler construction of a magnetic cooling device.

[0011] According to various aspects, methods and apparatus are provided that allow for effective and energy-efficient control of the temperature (e.g., cooling (e.g., liquefaction) and / or heating (e.g., vaporization)) of fluids (e.g., gases, liquids). For example, the temperature of hydrogen and / or nitrogen and / or helium can be controlled.

[0012] According to various aspects, an apparatus is provided that has a simpler structure and therefore a more efficient (e.g., more cost-effective and less labor-intensive) implementation compared to conventional apparatus.

[0013] According to various aspects, methods and apparatus are provided for controlling the temperature (e.g., cooling (e.g., liquefying) and / or heating (e.g., vaporizing)) of a fluid (e.g., gas, liquid) based on the magnetocaloric effect.

[0014] According to various aspects, an apparatus is provided that enables more energy efficient liquefaction of hydrogen.

[0015] According to various aspects, a device is provided that can be / is configured as a portable device. For example, the portable device may be suitable for placement (e.g., use) within a hydrogen tank.

[0016] According to various embodiments, an apparatus is provided that can be used as a large-scale liquefaction plant capable of supplying several tons of liquid hydrogen per day.

[0017] According to various aspects, there is provided a temperature control device (liquefier) ​​for controlling the temperature (e.g., cooling, e.g., liquefying) of a fluid (e.g., gas), comprising: a coil device including a first coil and a second coil aligned along a coaxial direction and spaced apart from each other, such that a magnetic field can be generated by the first coil and the second coil within a magnetic field extension region between the first coil and the second coil; a magnetocaloric member (which may include one or more magnetocaloric units) that is provided so as to be movable relative to a coil device, wherein the magnetocaloric member and the coil device are configured so as to be movable relative to each other along a direction that forms an angle with respect to the coaxial direction (for example, an angle different from the coaxial direction, for example, an angle different from 0°) in the magnetic field extension region, and the magnetocaloric temperature of the magnetocaloric member is controlled based on a magnetic field change (for example, within the magnetocaloric member) that occurs when the coil device and the magnetocaloric member move relative to each other; a heat transfer system in thermal contact with the magnetocaloric member and providing heat transfer towards and / or away from the magnetocaloric member.

[0018] Thus, a temperature control device is provided that allows for temperature regulation (e.g., cooling and / or heating) of a medium, such as a fluid, based on the so-called magnetocaloric effect. Controlling the temperature of the medium can change the aggregation state of the medium. For example, the medium can be liquefied and / or vaporized. According to various embodiments, the device includes a magnetocaloric component including one or more magnetic substances that are magnetocalorically active in a respective temperature range. According to various embodiments, a magnetic field coil or multiple magnetic field coils (referred to as coils for short) can be used to provide a magnetic field (e.g., as a magnetic field source). For heat exchange, the medium can be in thermal contact (e.g., direct and / or indirect physical contact (e.g., using a thermal bridge)) with the magnetocaloric component. For example, a temperature control device is provided in which the magnetocaloric component is guided past an end face of the coil.

[0019] The magnetocaloric material can form magnetic elements in the form of a spherical packing, one or more plates, or microstructures formed using a 3D printer (essentially any shape with as large a surface area as possible). Magnetocaloric elements can be formed from a variety of substances or materials. For example, rare earth elements such as lanthanum (La), cerium (Ce), praseodymium (Pr), neodymium (Nd), samarium (Sm), gadolinium (Gd), terbium (Tb), dysprosium (Dy), holmium (Ho), erbium (Er), thulium (Tm), ytterbium (Yb), and lutetium (Lu); alloys of rare earth elements containing elements such as chromium, manganese, iron, cobalt, nickel, copper, zinc, aluminum, silicon, gallium, germanium, indium, tin, or antimony; metal alloys such as lanthanum, iron, and silicon; alloys of manganese, iron, phosphorus, and silicon; holmium boride (HoB2), erbium cobalt (ErCo2), dysprosium aluminum (DyAl2), erbium aluminum (ErAl2), neodymium aluminum (NdAl2), and praseodymium. It is formed from aluminum (PrAl2), polycrystalline NdxPr1-xAl2 (for example, x=1, 0.75, 0.5, 0.25), PrxCe1-xAl2 (for example, x=1, 0.75, 0.5), etc.

[0020] From various perspectives, it has been recognized that, in contrast to conventional cooling systems, temperature control devices based on the magnetocaloric effect can operate at lower pressures, thus eliminating the need for compressors, which can be inefficient, prone to breakdowns and introduce additional limitations and costs.

[0021] It is further recognized that, according to various aspects, thermal energy (e.g., for heating, cooling) generated by the magnetocaloric member can be dissipated from the magnetocaloric member by using a heat transfer system including, for example, a heat transfer medium (e.g., a heat exchange medium). For example, the use of magnetic refrigeration can reduce energy consumption during liquefaction of hydrogen, etc., compared to compression-based liquefaction. As a result, for example, liquid hydrogen can become competitive as an energy carrier.

[0022] Furthermore, various aspects have recognized that the relative placement of the coils and associated magnetic field generation can solve several technical problems. For example, various aspects can significantly increase the operating frequency of a temperature control device, thereby increasing the efficiency of the temperature control device. For example, such placement of multiple coils allows for modular variation of the cooling capacity between immediately adjacent coils, e.g., by adjusting the magnetic field between immediately adjacent coils.

[0023] According to various aspects, a method of controlling a temperature of a fluid is provided, the method including providing a magnetic field in a freely accessible region between a first coil and a second coil, repeatedly (e.g., periodically) moving a magnetocaloric member relative to the freely accessible region to move the magnetocaloric member through the freely accessible region to temperature (e.g., cool) the magnetocaloric member, and altering the temperature of the fluid using the temperature-regulated magnetocaloric member.

[0024] The illustrated embodiment will now be described in detail below. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0025] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a temperature control device according to various embodiments. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A illustrates a schematic diagram of a temperature control device according to various embodiments. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B illustrates a schematic diagram of a temperature control device according to various embodiments. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic diagram of a temperature control device according to various embodiments. [Figure 4A] FIG. 4A shows a schematic representation of the coil arrangement and the corresponding magnetic field profile. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B shows a schematic representation of the coil arrangement and the corresponding magnetic field profile. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 shows a schematic representation of various configurations of coils and magnetocaloric members according to various embodiments. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows a schematic representation of various configurations of coils and magnetocaloric members according to various embodiments. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a method for controlling the temperature of a fluid. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0026] In the following detailed description, specific embodiments in which the present invention may be practiced are shown by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In this regard, directional terms such as "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "forward," and "rearward" are used with reference to the orientation of the figures being described. It should be understood that, because elements of the embodiments may be arranged in various directions, the directional terms are used for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be limiting. Other embodiments may be used without departing from the scope of protection of the present invention. It is also understood that structural or logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of protection of the present invention. The features of the various exemplary embodiments described herein may be combined with one another unless otherwise specified. Therefore, the following description should not be interpreted in a limiting sense, and the scope of protection of the present invention is defined by the appended claims.

[0027] According to various embodiments, a member herein may be referred to as a magnetocaloric member. A magnetocaloric member is comprised of one or more magnetocaloric substances. As used herein, a magnetocaloric material is a magnetic material that changes temperature when it is moved into or out of a magnetic field. For example, a magnetocaloric member may heat up (i.e., its temperature increases) when moved into a magnetic field. For example, a magnetocaloric member may cool down (i.e., its temperature decreases) when removed from a magnetic field. Alternatively, a magnetocaloric member may cool down (i.e., its temperature decreases) when moved into a magnetic field and heat up (i.e., its temperature increases) when removed from a magnetic field. A magnetocaloric material may be comprised of, for example, one or more of the following elements: holmium, aluminum, dysprosium. A magnetocaloric substance may include, for example, the following: HoAl2, Dy 0,5 Ho 0,5 Al2, and / or DyAl2.

[0028] The temperature change (e.g., level of temperature change, temperature difference) of the magnetocaloric member may depend on the strength of the magnetic field (e.g., intensity of the magnetic field). Alternatively or additionally, the temperature change of the magnetocaloric member may depend on the speed at which the magnetocaloric member moves into and / or out of the magnetic field, respectively. Alternatively or additionally, the temperature change of the magnetocaloric member may depend on one or more magnetocaloric substances contained in the magnetocaloric member.

[0029] According to various embodiments, a member can be configured herein to conduct a fluid. Here, the term fluid is used to refer to a substance or mixture of substances that continuously deforms or flows under the influence of shear forces. According to various embodiments, gases and / or liquids (e.g., mixtures of liquids and gases) are referred to herein as fluids.

[0030] According to various aspects of the present invention, the coils (e.g., magnetic coils) may be coaxially aligned with one another, where coaxial is understood to mean that the coils are disposed on a common axis passing through their respective centers.

[0031] For example, each coil can be understood as a number of windings arranged along the side of a cylinder. It is understood that a cylinder can include any base surface (e.g., ellipse, polygon). The base surface of a cylinder includes a central point, such as a geometric center point and / or center of gravity. In this specification, the line passing through the center of the base surface and parallel to the side of the cylinder is referred to as the axis of the cylinder.

[0032] It is understood that the base area of ​​each cylinder is the base area and / or cross-sectional area of ​​the coil corresponding to each cylinder. It is further understood that the axis of a cylinder is also the axis of the coil corresponding to the cylinder, and may be referred to herein as the coil axis. Thus, illustratively, two coils that are coaxial with each other are aligned on the same coil axis.

[0033] According to various embodiments, two (or more) members herein may be in thermal contact with each other. Two members in thermal contact with each other are also referred to as being thermally coupled. As used herein, thermal contact between two members is understood to mean direct and / or indirect physical contact that allows for the exchange of thermal energy between the two. Direct physical contact can be understood to mean, for example, physical contact in which the two members are in direct contact, thereby allowing for the transfer of thermal energy between the two members. Indirect physical contact can be understood to mean, for example, indirect physical contact in which the two members are not in direct contact but are coupled to each other via a (common) thermal bridge. A thermal bridge can be configured to exchange thermal energy between two or more members. A thermal bridge can be realized, for example, by a heat pipe and / or a thermally conductive medium such as a thermally conductive paste.

[0034] According to various embodiments, a component (e.g., a component portion) and / or material therein may be quenched. Here, controlling the temperature of a component and / or material may be understood to mean bringing the component and / or material to a predetermined temperature by cooling and / or heating the component and / or material. It is understood that the transfer of heat (e.g., thermal energy) from A to B requires a temperature gradient, specifically a temperature difference between A and B, where A and B are different components, component sections, and / or substances in thermal contact with each other. It is further understood that a higher temperature component and / or substance transfers thermal energy to a lower temperature component and / or substance.

[0035] According to various embodiments, a temperature control device for controlling the temperature of a fluid is provided. For example, a temperature control device for controlling the temperature of a fluid may be configured to heat the fluid (e.g., a liquid or gas) and / or cool the fluid. For example, the temperature control device may be configured to condition the fluid in a manner such that the aggregation state of the fluid changes from gas to liquid (by cooling) or from liquid to gas (by heating).

[0036] 1 illustrates a temperature control device 100 for controlling the temperature of a fluid according to various embodiments. The temperature control device 100 can include a coil device 110, a magnetocaloric member 120, and a heat transfer system 130 for conducting a heat transfer medium.

[0037] For example, the coil device 110 may include a first coil 111s and a second coil 112s. The first coil 111s and the second coil 112s may be magnetic field coils or electric coils. The coils may be aligned such that their respective coil cross sections, specifically, their bases, are substantially parallel to one another. For example, the coil bases of the first coil 111s and the second coil 112s intersect a common plane, with the coil bases each having an intersection angle of less than 30°, e.g., less than 10°, 10°, or less than 5°.

[0038] Alternatively or additionally, the first coil 111s and the second coil 112s may be aligned along a common axis, i.e., coaxially with one another. This is illustrated in FIG. 1 by the dotted lines 111s-212s. It is understood that when the coils are aligned coaxially with one another, the coil bases of the coils may be aligned at an angle (greater than 0°) relative to the common axis. For example, the coil bases may be aligned parallel to one another. For example, the radius of the coils may be greater than 25 cm (e.g., greater than 50 cm, e.g., greater than 75 cm, e.g., greater than 100 cm, e.g., greater than 150 cm, e.g., greater than 200 cm). For example, the height of the coil may be less than the diameter.

[0039] According to various aspects, the coil device 110 may include a first coil housing 111 and a second coil housing 112. The first coil 111s is disposed within the first coil housing 111, and the second coil 112s is disposed within the second coil housing 112.

[0040] According to various embodiments, the first coil 111s and the second coil 112s may each be a superconducting coil. For example, the first coil housing 111 and the second coil housing 112 may include a suitable cooling system for cooling the superconducting coil. For example, a suitable cooling system for cooling the superconducting coil may include a cooling medium (e.g., nitrogen (e.g., liquid), helium, hydrogen) to cool the coil.

[0041] According to various embodiments, the coils 111s, 112s may be non-superconducting coils, which may allow for applications in ranges other than cryogenic temperatures, for example.

[0042] According to various embodiments, the coil arrangement 110 further comprises a magnetic field extension region 119 that at least partially separates the first coil housing 111 and the second coil housing 112. The arrangement of the first coil 111s and the second coil 112s generates a magnetic field between the two coils and extends within the magnetic field extension region 119.

[0043] According to various embodiments, the temperature control device 100 includes a magnetocaloric member 120. The magnetocaloric member 120 is composed of one or more magnetocaloric materials. The magnetocaloric member 120 is attached to the coil device 110, and the magnetocaloric member 120 and the coil device 110 are movable relative to each other. The magnetocaloric member 120 is also movable into and / or out of the magnetic field extension region 119. Thus, magnetocaloric temperature control of the magnetocaloric member 120 can be performed.

[0044] According to various aspects, the magnetocaloric member 120 and / or the coil system 110 can be moved to create relative motion (relative movement) between the magnetocaloric member 120 and the coil system 110. It is understood that if both the magnetocaloric member 120 and the coil system 110 are moved, they should be moved in different ways (e.g., along different trajectories, at different speeds, in different directions, etc.) to achieve the relative motion between them.

[0045] According to various embodiments, the magnetocaloric member 120 may include one or more magnetocaloric units spaced apart from one another and movable sequentially by a magnetic field, which may, for example, improve the efficiency of the temperature control device 100.

[0046] According to various embodiments, the temperature control device 100 may include a plurality of (e.g., one or more additional) magnetocaloric members 120. For example, each of the plurality of magnetocaloric members 120 may be configured according to various embodiments described herein. For example, as described below, the plurality of magnetocaloric members 120 may be sequentially arranged to form a temperature gradient. For example, each element of the selected magnetocaloric material (e.g., from one or more of the magnetocaloric materials described above) in each of the plurality of magnetocaloric members 120 may be individually tuned for the respective temperature range in which the respective magnetocaloric member will be used.

[0047] Additionally, the heat transfer system 130 may be thermally connected to a reservoir containing the fluid to be temperature regulated, where the heat transfer medium may be directed by the heat transfer system 130 to the reservoir containing the fluid to be temperature regulated, where the heat transfer medium may receive thermal energy from the fluid to be temperature regulated, or may provide thermal energy to the fluid to be temperature regulated.

[0048] According to various embodiments, the temperature control device 100 includes a heat transfer system 130 for transferring heat (e.g., thermal energy) from (e.g., removing or supplying heat) to a fluid to be temperature-controlled (e.g., cooled or heated). For example, the heat transfer system 130 may include (e.g., be a heat exchanger). The heat transfer system 130 may be in thermal contact with the magnetocaloric member 120. For example, the heat transfer system 130 may at least partially penetrate the magnetocaloric member 120. Illustratively, a portion of the heat transfer system 130 may extend through a portion of the magnetocaloric member 120. This, for example, enables (e.g., ensures) heat transfer (e.g., transfer of thermal energy) between the magnetocaloric member 120 and the heat transfer system 130. As a result of the heat transfer, a heat transfer medium in the heat transfer system 130 may be temperature-controlled (e.g., cooled or heated). For example, if the heat transfer medium is heated, the absorbed thermal energy is released into the fluid to be temperature-controlled, causing the fluid to be heated. For example, if the heat transfer medium is being cooled, it may absorb thermal energy from the fluid being conditioned, thereby cooling the fluid.

[0049] For example, energy can be transferred through a contact area between the magnetocaloric member 120 and the heat transfer system 130. For example, the area of ​​the contact surface is proportional to the amount of energy transferred between the magnetocaloric member 120 and the heat transfer system 130. Specifically, a larger area of ​​the contact surface means that more energy is transferred between the magnetocaloric member 120 and the heat transfer system 130.

[0050] According to various embodiments, the temperature control device 100 may include one or more fluid reservoirs. The heat transfer system 130 may include a heat transfer medium.

[0051] 2A and 2B illustrate a temperature control process by a temperature control device 100 including a first fluid reservoir 141 and a second fluid reservoir 142. FIG.

[0052] According to various embodiments, the first fluid reservoir 141 may be thermally coupled to the heat transfer system 130 and the second fluid reservoir 142 may be thermally coupled to the thermal system 130 .

[0053] For example, the heat transfer system 130 may include a first coupling unit 133 thermally coupled to the first fluid reservoir 141. For example, the first coupling unit 133 may be configured to exchange thermal energy between the heat transfer system 130 and the first fluid reservoir 141. For example, a heat transfer medium may be routed through the first coupling unit 133 to exchange thermal energy with the first fluid reservoir 141, e.g., between a fluid in the first fluid reservoir 141 and the heat transfer medium.

[0054] For example, the heat transfer system 130 may include a second coupling unit 134 thermally coupled to the second fluid reservoir 142. For example, the second coupling unit 134 may be configured to exchange thermal energy between the heat transfer system 130 and the second fluid reservoir 142. For example, a heat transfer medium may be routed through the second coupling unit 134 to exchange thermal energy with the second fluid reservoir 142, e.g., between a fluid in the second fluid reservoir 142 and the heat transfer medium.

[0055] The first fluid reservoir 141 may have a first fluid reservoir temperature T1, and the second fluid reservoir 142 may have a second fluid reservoir temperature T2. The second fluid reservoir temperature T2 may be different from the first fluid reservoir temperature T1.

[0056] According to various embodiments, the heat transfer system 130 can be thermally coupled to the magnetocaloric member 120. For example, the heat transfer system 130 includes a heat return line 131 and a heat supply line 132, each of which is (at least partially) thermally coupled to the magnetocaloric member 120.

[0057] As an example, a case will be described in which the second fluid reservoir 142 contains a temperature-regulating fluid and the temperature control device 100 reduces the second fluid reservoir temperature T2.

[0058] In this case, the first fluid reservoir 141 may be configured to provide a substantially constant temperature, i.e., a temperature that does not change or changes only slightly (e.g., less than 10 K per hour), via the heat transfer system 130. Illustratively, the first fluid reservoir 141 may be understood as a heating bath.

[0059] According to various embodiments, the heat transfer system 130 may include a heat transfer medium. For example, the heat transfer medium may include a coolant or refrigerant (e.g., is a coolant or refrigerant). For example, the heat transfer medium may include nitrogen, helium, and / or hydrogen (e.g., may be at least one of nitrogen, helium, and hydrogen), for example, in a temperature range below 80 K. For example, the heat transfer medium may be pressurized (e.g., 2 bar or more, e.g., 5 bar or more, e.g., 10 bar or more) to improve its heat transfer properties.

[0060] The heat supply line 132 may be configured to transport thermal energy from the second fluid reservoir 142 to the first fluid reservoir 141 (see the horizontal arrow in FIG. 2A ). For example, the energy transport may be achieved using a heat transfer medium. The heat supply line 132 may be coupled (e.g., thermally coupled, e.g., physically coupled) to the second coupling unit 134. For example, the heat supply line 132 is coupled such that the heat transfer medium flows from the second coupling unit 134 to the heat supply line 132 (and / or in the opposite direction). The heat supply line 132 may be coupled (at least in sections) to the magnetocaloric member 120 such that the magnetocaloric member 120 and the heat transfer medium are thermally coupled to each other (e.g., in sections). The heat supply line 132 may be coupled (e.g., thermally coupled, e.g., physically coupled) to the first coupling unit 133. For example, the heat supply line 132 is coupled such that the heat transfer medium flows from the heat supply line 132 to the first coupling unit 133 (or vice versa). Thus, for example, the heat transfer medium can transport thermal energy to the first fluid reservoir 141 (or vice versa) via the magnetocaloric member 120, which can remove or receive energy from the second fluid reservoir 142. This process is illustrated by the horizontal arrows in Figure 2A.

[0061] The heat return line 131 may be configured to transport thermal energy from the first fluid reservoir 141 to the second fluid reservoir 142 (see the horizontal arrow in FIG. 2B ). For example, the energy transport may be achieved using a heat transfer medium. The heat return line 131 may be coupled (e.g., thermally coupled, e.g., physically coupled) to the first coupling unit 133. For example, the heat return line 131 is coupled such that the heat transfer medium flows from the first coupling unit 133 to the heat return line 131 (and / or in the opposite direction). The heat return line 131 may be coupled (at least in sections) to the magnetocaloric member 120 such that the magnetocaloric member 120 and the heat transfer medium are thermally coupled to each other (e.g., in sections). The heat return line 131 may be coupled (e.g., thermally coupled, e.g., physically coupled) to the second coupling unit 134. For example, the heat return line 131 may be coupled such that the heat transfer medium flows from the heat return line 131 to the second coupling unit 134 (or vice versa). Thus, for example, the heat transfer medium can transport thermal energy from the first fluid reservoir 141 through the magnetocaloric member 120 (which can remove or receive energy) to the second fluid reservoir 142 (or vice versa). This process is illustrated by the horizontal arrows in FIG. 2B.

[0062] For example, the above process can be designed as a circuit. For example, in this circuit, the heat supply line 132, the first coupling unit 133, and the heat return line 131 can be connected to each other so that a heat transfer medium is supplied from the heat return line 131 to the heat supply line 132 via the first coupling unit 141, or vice versa. In the first coupling unit 133, the heat transfer medium can exchange thermal energy with the first fluid reservoir 141. The heat return line 131, the second coupling unit 142, and the heat supply line 132 can be connected to each other so that the heat transfer medium is guided from the heat supply line 132 to the heat return line 131 via the second coupling unit 142, or vice versa. In the second coupling unit 134, the heat transfer medium can exchange thermal energy with the second fluid reservoir 142.

[0063] Illustratively, the heat return line 131 and the heat supply line 132 represent a system through which a heat transfer medium circulates. It is understood that if the heat transfer medium is solid, the heat transfer medium may be connected (e.g., thermally and / or physically) by the respective sections rather than being guided.

[0064] In the following, magnetocaloric temperature control using an example of a cyclic process will be briefly described with reference to Figures 2A and 2B. Here, a magnetocaloric element that heats up when moved into a magnetic field and cools down when moved out of the magnetic field is used as an example. It will be understood that temperature control can similarly be performed using a magnetocaloric element that cools down when moved into a magnetic field and heats up when moved out of the magnetic field. In the following method, only the relative movement of the magnetocaloric element and the magnetic field needs to be applied to each other (e.g., the magnetocaloric element needs to move out of the magnetic field rather than into it, or vice versa).

[0065] In the first coupling unit 133, the heat transfer medium is in thermal contact with the first fluid reservoir 141. As a result, the heat transfer medium in the first coupling unit 133 is regulated to the first fluid reservoir temperature T1. The heat transfer medium is then supplied to the heat return line 131.

[0066] The magnetocaloric member 120 may be cooled by the magnetocaloric effect when it is moved out of the magnetic field extension region 119 where the magnetic fields generated by the first coil 111s and the second coil 112s are present (see the downward arrow in FIG. 2A ), where the magnetocaloric member 120 is configured to be cooled to a temperature below the first fluid reservoir temperature T1.

[0067] Due to the at least partial thermal coupling of the heat return line 131, the heat transfer medium is in thermal contact with (and therefore cooled by) the magnetocaloric member 120 in at least one section of the heat return line 131 after moving from the magnetocaloric member 120, i.e., from the magnetic field extension region 119. As a result, the heat transfer medium is also cooled to a temperature lower than the first fluid reservoir temperature T1. The heat transfer medium is then passed to the second coupling unit 134.

[0068] In the second coupling unit 134, the heat transfer medium is in thermal contact with the second fluid reservoir 142. As a result, the heat transfer medium in the second coupling unit 134 receives thermal energy from the second fluid reservoir 142 and cools the fluid in the second fluid reservoir 142. As a result, the second fluid reservoir temperature T2 may decrease. The heat transfer medium is then supplied to the heat supply line 132.

[0069] The magnetocaloric member 120 may be heated by the magnetocaloric effect when the heat transfer medium is moved into the magnetic field extension region 119 (see the upward arrow in FIG. 2B ), resulting in the magnetocaloric member 120 being heated to a temperature higher than the first fluid reservoir temperature T1.

[0070] Due to the at least partial thermal coupling of the heat supply line 132, the heat transfer medium is in thermal contact with the heated magnetocaloric member 120 in at least one section of the heat supply line 132, i.e. after the heat transfer medium moves into the magnetic field extension region 119. As a result, the heat transfer medium is also heated to a temperature above the first fluid reservoir temperature T1. The heat transfer medium is then sent to the first coupling unit 133 and the cycle starts again.

[0071] This process is repeated, with the magnetocaloric element being repeatedly moved out of the magnetic field extension region 119 and then again into the magnetic field extension region 119 (see double arrows). With proper placement, the fluid temperature in the second fluid reservoir can be reduced to the lowest temperature achievable by the magnetocaloric element 120 and corresponding magnetocaloric effect used.

[0072] According to various embodiments, the final temperature can be improved by arranging multiple magnetocaloric members 120 one after the other (e.g., connecting them in series). In such a case, the heat transfer medium acts as a cooling medium for the multiple magnetocaloric members 120, allowing a lower target temperature range to be achieved. Illustratively, the multiple magnetocaloric members 120 form a temperature gradient, with the temperature decreasing toward the second fluid reservoir. Alternatively or additionally, one or more thick magnetocaloric members 120 (e.g., greater than 5 cm thick) may be used, thereby creating a temperature gradient within the large magnetocaloric member. If the magnetocaloric member 120 is thinner (e.g., thinner than 4 cm), the temperature gradient within the magnetocaloric member 120 may not be relevant to the temperature control of the heat transfer medium, for example.

[0073] Furthermore, according to various embodiments, it is recognized that the manifestation of the magnetocaloric effect may depend on the material and the respective temperature range. Specifically, this means that a magnetocaloric material may have more pronounced magnetocaloric properties (e.g., more magnetocalorically active) in a first temperature range than in a second temperature range, while another magnetocaloric material may have more pronounced magnetocaloric properties (e.g., more magnetocalorically active) in a second temperature range than in the first temperature range. Accordingly, it has been recognized that magnetocaloric components may be produced more efficiently by appropriately selecting and / or configuring one or more magnetocaloric materials.

[0074] For example, one or more substance concentration gradients may be present within the magnetocaloric component in order to adjust as optimally as possible to the desired target temperature.

[0075] According to various embodiments, multiple magnetocaloric members 120 may be used to increase the temperature gradient between the first fluid reservoir 141 and the second fluid reservoir 142. An exemplary temperature control device 100 is shown in FIG. 3. Operation of the temperature control device 100 is similar to that described above, with the temperature of the heat transfer medium in the second section of the heat return line 131 being cooled from the first fluid reservoir temperature T1 to a first intermediate temperature t1 by a first one of the multiple magnetocaloric members 120. The heat transfer medium is then cooled from the first intermediate temperature t1 to a second intermediate temperature t2 by a second one of the multiple magnetocaloric members 120, and to a third intermediate temperature t3 by a third one of the multiple magnetocaloric members 120.

[0076] In the second coupling unit 134, the heat transfer medium receives thermal energy from the fluid to be temperature-controlled in the second fluid reservoir, thereby allowing the heat transfer medium to cool the fluid. This means that the second fluid reservoir temperature T2 drops and the heat transfer medium is heated from the third intermediate temperature to the second fluid reservoir temperature T2. The heat transfer medium is then sent to the second portion of the heat supply line 132, where it sequentially thermally contacts the magnetocaloric elements 120 heated by the magnetocaloric effect. As a result of each thermal contact, each heated element of the magnetocaloric elements 120 is cooled, and as a result of each thermal contact, the heat transfer medium is heated. As a result, for example, the magnetocaloric elements 120 closer to the second fluid reservoir 142 with respect to the flow direction of the heat transfer medium in the heat return line 131 may be at a lower temperature than the magnetocaloric elements 120 closer to the first fluid reservoir 141. Illustratively, for example, a third magnetocaloric member of the plurality of magnetocaloric members 120 may be at a lower temperature than a first magnetocaloric member of the plurality of magnetocaloric members 120 .

[0077] For example, the temperature control device 100 can be used (e.g., by the methods described) to condition (e.g., heat, cool, e.g., liquefy, vaporize) a fluid within a low temperature range (e.g., below 100 K, e.g., below 50 K, e.g., below 30 K). For example, the method and apparatus can be used to control the temperature of a fluid for liquefying helium. For example, the method and apparatus for controlling the temperature of a fluid can be used to condition (e.g., heat, cool, e.g., liquefy, vaporize) a fluid in a high room temperature range (e.g., between 173 K and 373 K, e.g., between 193 K and 353 K). For example, such an apparatus can be used in large-scale refrigeration systems (e.g., to control the temperature (e.g., cooling) of a data center or refrigerated warehouse).

[0078] Various embodiments of the temperature control device 100 for reducing the second fluid reservoir temperature T2 to cool the fluid in the second fluid reservoir 142 have been described above with reference to FIGS.

[0079] Alternatively, according to various aspects, the temperature control device 100 may be used to heat the fluid in the first fluid reservoir 141, increasing the first fluid reservoir temperature T1.

[0080] In this case, the second fluid reservoir 142 (instead of the first fluid reservoir 141) may be configured to provide a substantially constant temperature, i.e., a temperature that does not change or changes only slightly (e.g., less than 10 K per hour), via the heat transfer system 130. For example, in this case, the second fluid reservoir 142 may be understood as a heating bath. The temperature control process described may be carried out in a similar manner to the process described above, except that the fluid in the first fluid reservoir 141 is heated as a result of the change in the heating bath.

[0081] According to various embodiments, the temperature control device 100 may include one or more pumps.

[0082] For example, one or more pumps may be used to pressurize the heat transfer system 130 to a predetermined pressure (e.g., an operating pressure), which may, for example, improve the heat transfer characteristics of the heat transfer system 130. For example, the thermal conductivity characteristics of the heat transfer medium may be changed by the applied pressure. For example, the applied pressure may cause a change in the state of mass of the heat transfer medium in one or more sections of the heat transfer system 130, thereby improving heat transfer.

[0083] Alternatively or additionally, one or more pumps may be used to pressurize the first fluid reservoir 141 and / or the second fluid reservoir 142 to a predetermined pressure. Thus, for example, the state change temperature of the assembly may change. For example, the pressure of the gas being liquefied may increase, thereby increasing the condensation temperature. Thus, for example, hydrogen may be liquefied at a temperature above 20 K (e.g., 25 K) rather than at 20 K with an applied pressure (e.g., 10 bar).

[0084] According to various embodiments, the temperature control device 100 may include one or more additional coils within corresponding coil housings. For example, one or more of the additional coils may be disposed within corresponding coil housings between adjacent magnetocaloric members of the plurality of magnetocaloric members 120. This may result in the creation of additional magnetic field extension regions 119, each of which may be similar to one of the magnetic field extension regions 119. This may ensure, for example, that a sufficiently strong magnetic field is provided within each of the magnetic field extension regions 119. This is illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B.

[0085] In such a configuration, it is advantageous to use at least three coils to partially compensate for the forces acting on the coil arrangement. This is because, while the two outer coils are subject to large magnetic forces (coils carrying current in the same direction attract each other), the coils located between these two outer coils are attracted to their neighboring coils, and these (illustrated "inner") forces cancel each other out. This reduces the demands on the mechanical suspension of the coils located between the two outer coils.

[0086] 4A schematically illustrates a cross-sectional side view of the coil arrangement 110 and corresponding magnetic field lines from a magnetic field simulation. The coil arrangement 110 may include a first coil 111s within a first coil housing 111, a second coil 112s within a second coil housing 112, and a third coil 113s within a third coil housing 113. The first coil 111s, the second coil 112s, and the third coil 113s may be coaxially aligned with one another, for example, along a common coil axis 111s-113s. For example, the first coil 111s, the second coil 112s, and the third coil 113s may each have a base surface that is perpendicular (e.g., tilted at a 90° angle) to the common coil axis 111s-113s. For example, each base surface may have an inclination angle relative to the coil axis within a range of (60°-120°), e.g., (70°-110°), e.g., (80°-100°), e.g., (85°-95°), e.g., (89°-91°), where a narrower range may result in a more uniform magnetic field within the corresponding magnetic field extension region 119.

[0087] 4B schematically illustrates the magnetic field profile, i.e., spatially resolved magnetic field strength (vertical axis 401), of the coil arrangement of FIG. 4A along common coil axes 111s-113s, represented by vertical axis 402. The magnetic field strength may be greatest within the coils (represented by arrows 111s, 112s, 113s) and diminished within magnetic field extension region 119. Thus, according to various embodiments, the magnetic field strength would be too low to allow the coils to be spaced arbitrarily far apart. For example, the spacing between two adjacent coils may be less than 50 cm (e.g., less than 40 cm, e.g., less than 30 cm, e.g., less than 20 cm, e.g., less than 10 cm, e.g., less than 5 cm).

[0088] According to various embodiments, only a single coil through which the magnetocaloric member passes may be used, in which case the second coil may be omitted, which may save space and cost, for example.

[0089] According to various embodiments, the magnetocaloric member 120 may be configured in a circular shape, which may, for example, allow the magnetocaloric member 120 to rotate (e.g., with a uniformly distributed force). Alternatively or additionally, the magnetocaloric member 120 may include multiple segments that are spaced apart from one another, i.e., not in direct physical contact with one another. Illustratively, each of the multiple segments thus represents a separate magnetocaloric member 120, which may improve the efficiency of the temperature control device 100.

[0090] 5 is a schematic diagram of a temperature control device 100 according to various embodiments. Illustratively, only the first coil 111s, the second coil 112s, and the magnetocaloric member 120 are shown. The magnetocaloric member 120 may have a ring shape.

[0091] For example, one ring plane of the magnetocaloric member 120 can be perpendicular to the (common) coil axis (e.g., with a 90° inclination angle) or can have a tilt angle relative to the coil axis in the range of (60°-120°), e.g., (70°-110°), e.g., (80°-100°), e.g., (85°-95°), e.g., (89°-91°). For example, the ring plane can be parallel to the base surface of the coil.

[0092] The magnetocaloric member 120 may include a plurality of segments 121, each including one or more magnetocaloric materials. For example, each of the plurality of segments 121 may be configured similarly to the magnetocaloric member 120. The plurality of segments 121 are spaced apart from one another, thereby achieving thermal isolation between the plurality of segments 121.

[0093] Furthermore, in FIG. 5, it can be appreciated that in a coil including two bases, each of the two bases can be used to form a respective magnetic field extension region 119.

[0094] According to various embodiments, the magnetocaloric member 120 and the coil arrangement 110 may be configured to move relative to one another such that the magnetocaloric member 120 moves in and out of the magnetic field extension region 119 to produce the magnetocaloric effect. For example, the magnetocaloric member 120 and / or the coil arrangement 110 may be moved for this purpose. According to various embodiments, it has been recognized that it may be advantageous for the magnetocaloric member 120 and / or the coil arrangement 110 to move in a rotational manner, which may, for example, allow for a higher operating frequency of the temperature control device 100.

[0095] The rotation of the magnetocaloric member 120 is illustrated by arrow 122 in Fig. 5. Thus, even heavy magnetocaloric members 120, i.e., magnetocaloric members 120 containing large amounts of magnetocaloric material, can be moved. With segmented embodiments, multiple segments can be moved (e.g., rotated) sequentially through one or more magnetic field extension regions 119. This can be advantageous for the efficiency of the process. For example, the magnetocaloric member 120 may be rotated in a plane perpendicular to gravity (e.g., Earth's gravity). This can, for example, result in better rotational motion and increased operating frequency.

[0096] According to various embodiments, it is further recognized that it may be advantageous to rotate the coil arrangement 110 (e.g., instead of or in addition to the magnetocaloric member 120), which may, for example, allow for a fixed or more robust medium connection (e.g., a connection of the heat transfer system 120).

[0097] As previously mentioned, the use of multiple magnetocaloric members 120 and / or multiple coils increases efficiency and allows for larger scale application of the temperature control device 100. Figure 6 illustrates an exemplary temperature control device 100 according to various embodiments that includes multiple magnetocaloric members 120 and a coil device including multiple coils.

[0098] For example, multiple coils may be arranged in a matrix. Multiple coils arranged in the same row in the Z direction may be aligned coaxially. Coils arranged in the same XY plane may have separate coil housings to improve energy efficiency.

[0099] For clarity, other components such as the heat transfer system 120 and the coil housing are not separately illustrated. The temperature control device 100 includes a plurality of magnetocaloric members 120, each of which includes a plurality of segments 121. Each of the plurality of magnetocaloric members 120 is configured to be rotatable, for example, as indicated by arrow 122. Alternatively or additionally, the coil system may be rotated (e.g., in a direction opposite to the direction of rotation of the plurality of magnetocaloric members 120).

[0100] Each segment 121 has its own inlet and outlet ports for supplying and discharging the heat transfer medium, but these are not shown in FIG. 6 for simplicity.

[0101] Furthermore, a shaft such as a hollow shaft may be provided in the center of the temperature control device 100 in the Z direction, and the segment 121 may be attached to this shaft so that the segment 121 is rotated by the shaft.

[0102] One or more tubes and / or hoses are provided within the cavity in the hollow shaft to carry a heat transfer medium along a path in the hollow shaft to provide heat exchange with the segments 121. The one or more tubes and / or hoses provide heat transfer contact between the segments 121 and one or more heat exchangers via the heat transfer medium.

[0103] Furthermore, the temperature control device 100 may be configured or operated so that, as the segments 121 rotate relative to the coils, the time that each segment 121 is magnetized (i.e., the time that it is located within the magnetic field of each coil) is approximately equal to or exactly equal to the time that each segment 121 is not magnetized (i.e., the time that it is located outside the magnetic field of each coil).

[0104] 7 illustrates a method 700 for controlling the temperature of a fluid according to various embodiments, which includes the following steps: providing a magnetic field (e.g., a magnetic field having a magnetic field strength greater than 2 T) (701), repeatedly (e.g., periodically) moving a magnetocaloric member relative to the magnetic field (702), temperature-regulating (e.g., cooling, heating) the magnetocaloric member, and varying the temperature of the fluid using the temperature-regulated magnetocaloric member (703).

[0105] For example, the magnetic field may be provided in a freely accessible region between the first coil and the second coil. For example, the region may be a freely accessible region. For example, the region may be a region limited by a coil base. For example, the magnetocaloric member may be moved through (e.g., into and / or out of) the region between the first coil and the second coil. For example, a fluid may be in direct thermal contact with the magnetic field. For example, the fluid may be temperature-controlled using a heat transfer medium in thermal contact with the magnetocaloric member.

[0106] In one embodiment, the temperature control device may be a magnetocaloric liquefier for liquefying hydrogen. It is recognized that in the case of a magnetocaloric capacitor, the magnetocaloric material used in the magnetocaloric member determines its efficiency from various perspectives. For example, the magnetocaloric material should have a magnetic transition in the low temperature range where the magnetocaloric effect is maximized.

[0107] A magnetocaloric capacitor can be operated in a rotational mode, for example, by rotating the magnetocaloric member through high and low magnetic field zones (i.e., illustratively into and out of a magnetic field extension region). Rotational operation is advantageous over linear operation because back and forth movement of a high-mass magnetocaloric member at high operating frequencies (e.g., 1 Hz and above) is difficult to achieve. Exemplary magnetocaloric capacitors enable high operating frequencies (e.g., 10 Hz and above) through rotational operation.

[0108] In an example embodiment, the magnetocaloric capacitor comprises several coils, each coil housing being separated from the other by a space (e.g., a magnetic field extension region). This intermediate space allows the magnetocaloric member to move (e.g., rotate) without restriction through the zone where the maximum magnetic field strength (e.g., within the magnetic field extension region) is provided. This means that the free installation space between the coil housings makes it easy to realize the various media connections of the capacitor, such as the rotation axis, the exchange gas flow and return, the supply lines to the sensor system, etc.

[0109] Alternatively or additionally, the magnetocaloric capacitor may comprise one or more superconducting coils capable of operating in short-circuit mode. When the one or more superconducting coils are cooled below their transition temperature and energized, they generate a high magnetic field (e.g., 5 T or greater) continuously and (substantially) without loss. A magnetocaloric component comprising one or more magnetocaloric materials is moved relative to the one or more superconducting coils, generating a change in the magnetic field within the magnetocaloric component. As a result of the change in the magnetic field, the temperature of the substance may change (e.g., be heated or cooled), and a fluid (e.g., a heat transfer medium, e.g., a heat exchange fluid) may be in thermal contact with the magnetocaloric component (e.g., be pumped through (e.g., be pumped) through the magnetocaloric component).

[0110] Alternatively or additionally, the magnetocaloric capacitor may comprise a coil arrangement including a plurality of coils (e.g., coil segments), in which case a gap may be formed between two of the plurality of coils (e.g., two of the plurality of coil segments) along a common coil axis (e.g., the coil axis of two of the plurality of coils).

[0111] Alternatively or additionally, the magnetocaloric capacitor may include a ring-shaped magnetocaloric element. The magnetocaloric element may contain one or more magnetocaloric substances. The magnetocaloric element may be arranged so that the ring surface is substantially perpendicular to the coil axis (the inclination angle is, for example, in the range of (60°-120°), for example, (70°-110°), for example, (80°-100°), for example, (85°-95°), or for example, (89°-91°)), and the ring portion is positioned within the gap of the coil device. The ring rotates around its central axis, and as the magnetocaloric element passes through the gap, it is partially magnetized and then partially demagnetized again. This allows the magnetocaloric element to be alternately heated and cooled in sections, and the temperature of the fluid can be regulated using corresponding thermal compensation. For example, the thermal energy generated during heating of the magnetocaloric element can be dissipated by a heat transfer system (e.g., a heat transfer medium), thereby providing continuous cooling. The coil may, for example, be a superconducting coil.

[0112] In one embodiment, for magnetic cooling based on the magnetocaloric effect, a magnetizable member (e.g., a magnetocaloric member) is alternately exposed to stronger and weaker magnetic fields, thereby allowing the magnetizable member to be alternately heated and cooled. The heat generated in the first step can be dissipated, for example, by a heat transfer medium, thereby achieving continuous cooling.

[0113] In one embodiment, the magnetocaloric member can rotate relative to the (eg, fixed) coil in the form of a magnetocaloric ring.

[0114] Alternatively or additionally, the coil may rotate relative to the (e.g. fixed) magnetocaloric member. This allows for example to realize magnetocaloric member shapes that deviate from a ring shape. Furthermore, designs with a fixed magnetocaloric member have the advantage that the media connections are less complex.

[0115] The principle of rotation of the coil arrangement and / or magnetocaloric elements therefore allows high operating frequencies even with a large mass of magnetocaloric material, while the arrangement of the magnetocaloric elements provides, for example, an efficient capacitor with an uncomplicated structure, allowing effective and energy-efficient temperature control (e.g. of a fluid).

[0116] In one embodiment, rotation of the magnetocaloric ring may be provided in such a way that a ring section passes through an intermediate space (eg, a gap, a magnetic field extension range) formed between two coil segments.

[0117] In another embodiment, the magnetocaloric ring can be rotated so that a ring portion passes in front of the longitudinal end of the coil, with the coil being located on one side of the ring portion, which can, for example, reduce costs.

[0118] In one embodiment, the condenser can be scaled. For example, the size of the condenser can be reduced, i.e., reduced to smaller dimensions. Thus, for example, a small (re)condenser can be provided that may have a lower cooling capacity but is suitable for transportable applications. For example, the condenser can be enlarged, i.e., scaled to larger dimensions. Thus, for example, a large-scale condenser can be provided for the energy-efficient production of liquid hydrogen as an energy carrier. Thus, scalable condensers can be used for a variety of applications.

[0119] In example embodiments, the capacitor can include a magnetized space (e.g., gap space, magnetic field extension region) that is kept clear by using multiple superconducting coils (e.g., a superconducting coil divided into multiple superconducting subcoils). For example, the condenser's temperature operating range is from -183°C (90K) to -263°C (10K) (e.g., from -196°C (77K) to -253°C (20K)). For example, one or more components of the condenser can be pre-cooled to -196°C (77K) using liquid nitrogen. Thus, for example, a low starting temperature may already be achieved, eliminating the need for the system to first reach that temperature. For example, helium can be used as a heat transfer gas (e.g., heat exchange gas). The actual hydrogen liquefaction can occur outside the coil (e.g., in a second fluid reservoir).

[0120] In one embodiment, the condenser may be used at room temperature. For example, superconducting or non-superconducting coils may be used.

[0121] The following presents several aspects related to the subject matter described and illustrated in the present disclosure.

[0122] Example 1 is a temperature control device (e.g., liquefaction device) for controlling (e.g., cooling, e.g., liquefying) the temperature of a fluid (e.g., gas), the device comprising: a coil arrangement including a first coil and a second coil, the first coil and the second coil aligned along a coaxial direction and spaced apart from each other to generate a magnetic field by the first and second coils in a magnetic field extension region between the first coil and the second coil; and a magnetocaloric member (which may include one or more magnetocaloric units) mounted for movement relative to the coil arrangement, the magnetocaloric member and the coil arrangement being spaced apart from each other at a predetermined angle (e.g., an angle greater than the coaxial direction, e.g., an angle greater than 0°) relative to the coaxial direction. a magnetocaloric member configured to be movable relative to each other within the magnetic field extension region along a direction that forms an angle within a range of, for example, (60° to 120°), for example, an angle within a range of (70° to 110°), for example, an angle within a range of (80° to 100°), for example, an angle within a range of (85° to 95°), for example, an angle within a range of (89° to 91°), and configured to perform magnetocaloric temperature control of the magnetocaloric member based on a magnetic field change (for example, within the magnetocaloric member) while the coil device and the magnetocaloric member move relative to each other; and a heat transfer system in thermal contact with the magnetocaloric member to provide heat transfer toward and / or away from the magnetocaloric member.

[0123] An aspect of Example 2 is that the temperature control device according to Example 1 can further optionally include a moving unit configured to move the magnetocaloric member and the coil device relative to each other, whereby the magnetocaloric member is moved into and / or out of the magnetic field extension region, and is configured to generate magnetocaloric energy that controls the temperature of the magnetocaloric member.

[0124] In an aspect of Example 3, in the temperature control device according to Examples 1 or 2, the coil device and / or the magnetocaloric member can be rotatably mounted so that the relative movement between them is a relative rotational movement, which means that, by the principle of rotation, for example, a high operating frequency can be realized even with a large volume.

[0125] An aspect of Example 4 is that in the temperature control device according to Example 3, the coil device and / or the magnetocaloric member can be rotatably arranged, and the relative movement between the coil device and the magnetocaloric member is a relative rotational movement.

[0126] An aspect of Example 5 is the temperature control device according to any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the first coil is a superconducting magnetic field coil, and the second coil is a superconducting magnetic field coil.

[0127] An aspect of Example 6 is that, in the temperature control device according to any one of Examples 1 to 5, the first coil is disposed within a first coil housing, the second coil is disposed within a second coil housing, and the first coil housing and the second coil housing can be configured to be filled with nitrogen (e.g., liquid nitrogen) and / or helium (e.g., liquid helium) and / or other medium suitable for use as a heat transfer medium in a temperature range below 80 K.

[0128] In an aspect of Example 7, in the temperature control device according to any one of Examples 1 to 6, the magnetic field can have a magnetic field strength greater than 2 T (e.g., greater than 2.5 T, greater than 3 T, greater than 5 T, greater than 7 T, greater than 10 T, or greater than 15 T). For example, a higher magnetic field strength allows for better temperature control.

[0129] This means that, for example, iron cores or iron yokes cannot be used, as they usually do not provide a magnetic field with a sufficiently high field strength. For example, non-magnetic filled coils (such as air-core coils) can be used to generate the magnetic field.

[0130] An aspect of Example 8 is a temperature control device according to any one of Examples 1 to 7, wherein the magnetocaloric member can include one or more magnetocaloric materials. For example, the one or more magnetocaloric materials can include one or more of the following (e.g., are): holmium, aluminum, dysprosium (e.g., HoAl2, Dy) 0,5Ho 0,5 Al2, DyAl2).

[0131] In an aspect of Example 9, in the temperature control device according to any one of Examples 1 to 8, the magnetocaloric member can have (for example, has) an elliptical shape (for example, a circular or ring shape).

[0132] In an aspect of Example 10, in the temperature control device according to any one of Examples 1 to 9, the magnetocaloric member can include a plurality of segments that are not physically connected to each other.

[0133] Example 11 is a temperature control device according to any one of Examples 1 to 10, which may further optionally include a first fluid reservoir and a second fluid reservoir, and the first fluid reservoir and the second fluid reservoir may be thermally coupled to each other by the heat transfer system.

[0134] An aspect of Example 12 is that in the temperature control device according to Example 11, the first fluid reservoir is a heated tank (i.e., its temperature does not change (significantly) due to thermal coupling with the heat transfer system), and the second fluid reservoir can be configured to contain a fluid to be temperature-regulated.

[0135] An aspect of Example 13 is that in the temperature control device according to Example 11, the second fluid reservoir is a heated tank (i.e., its temperature does not change (significantly) due to thermal coupling with the heat transfer system), and the first fluid reservoir can be configured to contain a fluid to be temperature-regulated.

[0136] An aspect of Example 14 is the temperature control device according to any one of Examples 11 to 13, wherein the heat transfer system includes a heat transfer medium, a heat return line, and a heat supply line, the heat supply line and the heat return line are connected to each other by a first coupling unit and a second coupling unit, and the heat transfer medium can circulate within the heat transfer system. For example, the heat transfer medium can include (e.g., contains) nitrogen, hydrogen, and / or helium.

[0137] An aspect of Example 15 is that in the temperature control device according to Example 14, the first coupling unit can be in thermal contact with the first fluid reservoir, and the second coupling unit can be in thermal contact with the second fluid reservoir.

[0138] An aspect of Example 16 is that in the temperature control device according to Examples 14 or 15, the magnetocaloric element can be in thermal contact with a portion of the heat supply line, and the magnetocaloric element can be in thermal contact with a portion of the heat return line.

[0139] An aspect of Example 17 is that in the temperature control device according to any of Examples 11 to 16, the first fluid reservoir can have a first fluid reservoir temperature (e.g., 80K, e.g., 77K), the second fluid reservoir can have a second fluid reservoir temperature (e.g., 10K, e.g., 20K), and the first fluid reservoir temperature can be different from the second fluid reservoir temperature.

[0140] An aspect of Example 18 is that in the temperature control device according to any one of Examples 17, the first fluid reservoir temperature is a temperature in the range of 0K to 100K (e.g., 10K to 90K, e.g., 50K to 85K, e.g., 73K to 83K), and the second fluid reservoir temperature is a temperature in the range of 0K to 100K (e.g., 4K to 80K, e.g., 10K to 50K, e.g., 18K to 15K).

[0141] An aspect of Example 19 is the temperature control device according to any one of Examples 1 to 18, wherein the temperature control device can include one or more pumps.

[0142] An aspect of Example 20 relates to Example 19, in a temperature control device according to any of Examples 11 to 18, wherein a first pump of the plurality of pumps is coupled to the first fluid reservoir to provide a first pressure to the first fluid reservoir, and / or a second pump of the plurality of pumps is coupled to the second fluid reservoir to provide a second pressure.

[0143] In an aspect of Example 21, in the temperature control device according to Example 20, the first pressure may be different from the second pressure. For example, a pressure difference may cause fluid to flow from the first region to the second region. For example, the aggregate state change temperature may vary depending on the respective pressures in the two fluid regions. This may mean, for example, that a smaller temperature difference needs to be overcome.

[0144] An aspect of Example 22 is a temperature control device according to any one of Examples 11-18 in relation to Example 19, or according to Example 20 or 21, wherein one-third of the plurality of pumps can be configured to move a heat transfer medium through the heat return line and the heat supply line.

[0145] An aspect of Example 23 is the temperature control device according to any one of Examples 1 to 22, wherein one coil device includes a third coil aligned along a coaxial direction with the first coil and the second coil and spaced apart from the second coil such that the second coil and the third coil can generate an additional magnetic field within an additional magnetic field extension region between the second coil and the third coil;

[0146] a temperature control device comprising: an additional magnetocaloric member (which may include one or more magnetocaloric units) that can be configured to move relative to the coil device, wherein the magnetocaloric member and the coil device are configured to be movable relative to each other within the magnetic field extension region along a direction that forms an angle with respect to the coaxial direction (e.g., an angle greater than the coaxial direction, e.g., an angle greater than 0°, e.g., an angle within a range of (60° to 120°), e.g., an angle within a range of (70° to 110°), e.g., an angle within a range of (80° to 100°), e.g., an angle within a range of (85° to 95°), e.g., an angle within a range of (89° to 91°)), and the additional magnetocaloric member is configured to perform magnetocaloric temperature control of the additional magnetocaloric member based on a magnetic field change (e.g., within the magnetocaloric member) during relative movement between the coil device and the magnetocaloric member; and a heat transfer system in thermal contact with the magnetocaloric member to provide heat transfer toward and / or away from the magnetocaloric member.

[0147] For illustrative purposes, Example 23 above illustrates a multi-stage (here, at least two-stage) design of a temperature control device according to various embodiments. The second stage can be designed similarly to the first stage, with each second member / element of the first stage corresponding to a respective first member / element of the second stage, and each second member / element of the first stage corresponding to a respective third member / element of the third stage. It is understood that any number of additional stages can be added via this system. Thus, for example, staged temperature control (such as cooling) can be achieved, which, for example, can improve energy efficiency.

[0148] Example 24 is a temperature control device (e.g., liquefaction device) for controlling (e.g., cooling, e.g., liquefying) the temperature of a fluid (e.g., gas), the device comprising: a coil; a magnetic field extension unit arranged coaxially adjacent to the coil, the magnetic field extension unit generating a magnetic field in a magnetic field extension region by the coil; and a magnetocaloric member (which may include one or more magnetocaloric units) arranged movably relative to the coil, the magnetocaloric member and the coil being arranged at an angle (e.g., an angle greater than the coaxial direction, e.g., an angle greater than 0°, e.g., an angle within a range of (60° to 120°), e.g., an angle within a range of (70° to 110°)) with respect to the coaxial direction. a magnetocaloric member configured to be movable relative to each other in the magnetic field extension region along a direction forming an angle of (80° to 100°), for example, an angle within a range of (85° to 95°), for example, an angle within a range of (89° to 91°), and configured to perform magnetocaloric temperature control of the magnetocaloric member based on a magnetic field change (for example, within the magnetocaloric member) while the coil device and the magnetocaloric member move relative to each other; and a heat transfer system in thermal contact with the magnetocaloric member to provide heat transfer toward and / or away from the magnetocaloric member.

[0149] It will be understood that an embodiment including a temperature control device according to any of Examples 1 to 22 above can be similarly applied to a temperature control device according to Example 23 above.

[0150] An aspect of Example 25 is to use a temperature control device according to any of Examples 1 to 23 for liquefying a gas. For example, the gas may include nitrogen, hydrogen, methane, natural gas, helium, etc.

[0151] An aspect of Example 25 is a method of controlling a temperature of a fluid, the method including providing a magnetic field in a freely accessible region between a first coil and a second coil; repeatedly (e.g., periodically) moving a magnetocaloric member relative to the freely accessible region to temperature (e.g., cool) the magnetocaloric member by moving the magnetocaloric member within the freely accessible region; and using the temperature-regulated magnetocaloric member to modify the temperature of a fluid.

[0152] An aspect of Example 26 is the method of Example 25, wherein the step of altering the temperature of the fluid using the temperature-controlled magnetocaloric component optionally includes temperature-regulating the fluid by directing the fluid along (e.g., through) the magnetocaloric component.

Claims

1. A temperature control device (100) for controlling the temperature of a fluid, comprising: A coil device (110) including a first coil (111s), a second coil (112s), and a third coil (113s) aligned in a line along a coaxial direction, a coil device (110) in which the first to third coils (111s, 112s, 113s) are spaced apart from one another so that a magnetic field can be generated by the first coil (111s) and the second coil (112s) in a first magnetic field extension region (119) between the first coil (111s) and the second coil (112s), and so that a magnetic field can be generated by the second coil (112s) and the third coil (113s) in a second magnetic field extension region (119) between the second coil (112s) and the third coil (113s); A first magnetocaloric member (120) and a second magnetocaloric member (120) are provided so as to be movable relative to the coil device (110), the first magnetocaloric member (120) is configured to be movable relative to the coil arrangement (110) into and out of the first magnetic field extension region (119) along a direction angled with respect to the axial direction; a first and second magnetocaloric member (120) that is movable relative to the coil device (110) along a direction between inside and outside of the second magnetic field extension region (119), and that controls the magnetocaloric temperatures of the first and second magnetocaloric members (120) based on a change in magnetic field that occurs when the coil device (110) and the first and second magnetocaloric members move relative to each other; a heat transfer system (120) in thermal contact with each of the first and second magnetocaloric members (120) and providing heat transfer towards and / or away from the first and second magnetocaloric members.

2. 2. The temperature control device (100) of claim 1, The coil arrangement (110) and / or the first magnetocaloric member (120) are rotatably mounted such that their relative movement with respect to each other is a relative rotational movement.

3. 3. The temperature control device (100) of claim 2, the coil device (110) and / or the first magnetocaloric member (120) are rotatably mounted; The relative movement of said magnetic field extension region (119) and said magnetocaloric member (120) with respect to each other is a relative rotational movement.

4. The temperature control device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The first coil (111s) is a superconducting magnetic field coil, The second coil (112s) is a superconducting magnetic field coil.

5. The temperature control device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, The first coil (111s) is disposed in a first coil housing (111), and the second coil (112s) is disposed in a second coil housing (112); The first coil housing (111) and the second coil housing (112) are configured to be filled with liquid nitrogen and / or liquid helium, respectively.

6. A temperature control device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, The first magnetocaloric member (120) has a ring shape.

7. A temperature control device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, The first magnetocaloric member (120) includes a plurality of segments (121) that are not physically connected to each other.

8. A temperature control device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, Further comprising a first fluid reservoir (141) and a second fluid reservoir (142); the first fluid reservoir (141) and the second fluid reservoir (142) are thermally coupled to each other by the heat transfer system (120); The first fluid reservoir (141) is a heating bath and the second fluid reservoir (142) is configured to contain a temperature-regulating fluid.

9. 9. The temperature control device (100) of claim 8, The heat transfer system (120) comprises a heat transfer medium, a heat return line (131) and a heat supply line (132); The heat supply line (132) and the heat return line (131) are connected to each other by a first coupling unit (133) and a second coupling unit (134), so that a heat transfer medium circulates within the heat transfer system (120).

10. 10. The temperature control device (100) of claim 9, the first coupling unit (133) is in thermal contact with the first fluid reservoir (141); the second coupling unit (134) is in thermal contact with the second fluid reservoir (142); the first magnetocaloric member (120) is in thermal contact with a portion of the heat supply line (132); The first magnetocaloric member (120) is in thermal contact with a portion of the heat return line (131).

11. A temperature control device (100) according to any one of claims 8 to 10, the first fluid reservoir (141) has a first fluid reservoir temperature; the second fluid reservoir (142) has a second fluid reservoir temperature; The first fluid reservoir temperature is different from the second fluid reservoir temperature.

12. A temperature control device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, The temperature control device (100) comprises one or more pumps; a first pump of the plurality of pumps connected to the first fluid reservoir (141) and providing a first pressure to the first fluid reservoir (141); and / or a second pump of the plurality of pumps connected to the second fluid reservoir (142) and providing a second pressure to the second fluid reservoir (142); The first pressure is different from the second pressure.

13. A temperature control device (100) for controlling the temperature of a fluid, comprising: A coil device (110) including a first coil (111s) and a second coil (112s), The first coil (111s) extends from a first base surface to a second base surface, and the second coil (112s) extends from a third base surface to a fourth base surface; The first base surface and the third base surface are aligned coaxially and spaced apart, and a first magnetic field is generated in a first magnetic field extension region (119) between the first base surface and the third base surface by the first coil (111s) and the second coil (112s); the second base surface and the fourth base surface are coaxially aligned and spaced apart from each other, and a coil device (110) configured to generate a second magnetic field in a second magnetic field extension region (119) between the second base surface and the fourth base surface by the first coil (111s) and the second coil (112s); A magnetocaloric member (120) provided movably relative to the coil device (110), a magnetocaloric element (120) and a coil arrangement (110) that are relatively movable into and out of the first and / or second magnetic field extension zones (119) along a direction angled with respect to the coaxial direction, whereby a magnetocaloric temperature of the magnetocaloric element (120) is controlled based on a magnetic field change that occurs when the coil arrangement (110) and the magnetocaloric element are moved relative to each other; a heat transfer system (120) in thermal contact with the magnetocaloric member (120) and providing heat transfer towards and / or away from the magnetocaloric member.

14. Use of a temperature control device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 13 for liquefying a gas, comprising: The gas includes helium, hydrogen, nitrogen and / or methane.

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