Refrigeration equipment

Abstract

In an adsorption refrigeration cycle, immediately after switching the flow path of the refrigerant and the heat transfer medium that exchanges heat, a low-temperature heat transfer medium is supplied to a heat exchanger that is supplied with a high-temperature heat transfer medium, and a high-temperature heat transfer medium is supplied to a heat exchanger that is supplied with a low-temperature heat transfer medium. [Solution] The refrigeration device 100 comprises a heat source circuit 101, a utilization circuit 102, a first container 121, a second container 122, a third container 123, a fourth container 124, and a control unit 105. In the first container 121, the second container 122, the third container 123, and the fourth container 124, the heat generated when the adsorbent adsorbs the refrigerant and the cold heat generated when the adsorbent desorbs the refrigerant are recovered. In the utilization circuit 102, the first container 121 is connected to the second container 122 and the fourth container 124, the second container 122 is connected to the third container 123, and the third container 123 is connected to the fourth container 124. The heat transfer medium circulates between the first container 121, the second container 122, the third container 123, and the fourth container 124.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] It relates to a refrigeration device.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a refrigeration device equipped with an adsorption refrigeration cycle has been used. As such a refrigeration device, Patent Document 1 (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2023 / 0417459) discloses a refrigeration device including a heat source side circuit having a pair of containers in which adsorption and desorption of a refrigerant are alternately repeated, and a utilization side circuit in which a heat medium for recovering the adsorption heat or desorption heat of the refrigerant circulates. In the heat source side circuit, a mode in which the refrigerant is adsorbed in one container and desorbed in the other container, and a mode in which the refrigerant is desorbed in the one container and adsorbed in the other container are alternately switched. Thereby, in the utilization side circuit, heat is continuously recovered from the heat source side circuit by the heat medium.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] Assume that the utilization side circuit has a first heat exchanger to which a high-temperature heat medium that has recovered the adsorption heat of the refrigerant is supplied, and a second heat exchanger to which a low-temperature heat medium that has recovered the desorption heat of the refrigerant is supplied. In this case, immediately after switching the mode of the heat source side circuit, a low-temperature heat medium is supplied to the first heat exchanger and a high-temperature heat medium is supplied to the second heat exchanger, so there is a risk that the capacity of the refrigeration device will temporarily decrease.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] The refrigeration system of the first aspect comprises a heat source side circuit, a utilization side circuit, a first container, a second container, a third container, a fourth container, and a control unit. The heat source side circuit has a compressor and a refrigerant flow path through which the refrigerant flows. The utilization side circuit has a first heat exchanger, a second heat exchanger, and a heat medium flow path through which the heat medium flows. The first container, the second container, the third container, and the fourth container each have an adsorbent that adsorbs and desorbs the refrigerant in response to changes in the refrigerant pressure. The first container, the second container, the third container, and the fourth container recover the heat generated when the adsorbent adsorbs the refrigerant and the cold generated when the adsorbent desorbs the refrigerant. The first container, the second container, the third container, and the fourth container are connected to the refrigerant flow path and the heat medium flow path. In the user-side circuit, the first container is connected to the second and fourth containers, the second container is connected to the third container, and the third container is connected to the fourth container. In the heat transfer medium flow path, the heat transfer medium circulates between the first, second, third, and fourth containers.

[0005] The refrigeration system described in the first perspective can increase its capacity per unit time by suppressing the temporary decrease in the heat exchange capacity of the heat exchanger.

[0006] The refrigeration system in the second perspective is the refrigeration system in the first perspective, and the control unit performs a first operation that sequentially switches the refrigeration system through the first state, second state, third state, fourth state, and back to the first state. In the first state, the suction side of the compressor is connected to the first container, and the discharge side of the compressor is connected to the third container. In the second state, the suction side of the compressor is connected to the second container, and the discharge side of the compressor is connected to the fourth container. In the third state, the suction side of the compressor is connected to the third container, and the discharge side of the compressor is connected to the first container. In the fourth state, the suction side of the compressor is connected to the fourth container, and the discharge side of the compressor is connected to the second container.

[0007] The refrigeration system in the second aspect can be configured such that the suction and discharge sides of the compressor are sequentially connected to the first to fourth containers by sequentially switching between the first to fourth states.

[0008] The refrigeration apparatus of the third aspect is the refrigeration apparatus of the second aspect, wherein the heat source side circuit further includes a first flow path, a second flow path, a first valve, and a second valve. The first flow path connects the first container and the third container without passing through a compressor. The second flow path connects the second container and the fourth container without passing through a compressor. The first valve is provided in the first flow path. The second valve is provided in the second flow path.

[0009] The third type of refrigeration device can increase its capacity per unit time by controlling the opening and closing of the first and second valves, thereby shortening the time it takes for the pressure inside the first to fourth containers to reach the adsorption pressure or desorption pressure.

[0010] The refrigeration system of the fourth perspective is the refrigeration system of the third perspective, wherein the control unit opens the second valve for part of the period during which the refrigeration system is in the first or third state. The control unit opens the first valve for part of the period during which the refrigeration system is in the second or fourth state.

[0011] The refrigeration device in the fourth aspect can increase its capacity per unit time by controlling the opening and closing of the first and second valves, thereby shortening the time it takes for the pressure inside the first to fourth containers to reach the adsorption pressure or desorption pressure.

[0012] The refrigeration system of the fifth aspect is a refrigeration system of any one of the second to fourth aspects, wherein the heat source side circuit further includes a four-way switching valve configured to switch the flow of refrigerant in the refrigerant flow path.

[0013] The refrigeration apparatus of the sixth aspect is a refrigeration apparatus of any one of the second to fifth aspects, wherein in the first state, the heat transfer medium circulates in the order of the first heat exchanger, the fourth container, the first container, the second heat exchanger, the second container, the third container, and the first heat exchanger.

[0014] The refrigeration system described in the sixth perspective can increase its capacity per unit time by suppressing the temporary decrease in the heat exchange capacity of the heat exchanger.

[0015] The refrigeration system of the seventh aspect is a refrigeration system of any one of the second to sixth aspects, wherein the control unit continuously drives the compressor during the execution of the first operation.

[0016] The seventh aspect of the refrigeration system does not require the compressor to be stopped during operation, thus suppressing a decrease in the reliability of the compressor.

[0017] The refrigeration apparatus of the eighth aspect is a refrigeration apparatus of any one of the second to seventh aspects, wherein the user-side circuit further includes a discharge unit. The discharge unit delivers a heat transfer medium to the first container, the second container, the third container, and the fourth container. The control unit drives the discharge unit continuously during the execution of the first operation.

[0018] In the eighth aspect of the refrigeration system, if the discharge unit is a pump, it is not necessary to stop the discharge unit during operation, thus suppressing a decrease in the reliability of the discharge unit.

[0019] The refrigeration apparatus of the ninth aspect is a refrigeration apparatus of any one of the first to eighth aspects, wherein the adsorbent includes a metal-organic structure containing a metal ion and an organic ligand.

[0020] The refrigeration apparatus of the 10th aspect is a refrigeration apparatus of any one of the first to 9th aspects, wherein the refrigerant comprises at least one of carbon dioxide, hydrocarbons, ammonia, water, HFCs, and HFOs. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0021] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram of the refrigeration device 100 according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram of the refrigeration device 100 according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram of the heat recovery process in the first state of the refrigeration device 100 according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a schematic diagram of the pressure equalization process in the first state of the refrigeration apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a schematic diagram of the heat recovery process in the second state of the refrigeration device 100 of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] It is a schematic diagram in the pressure equalization process of the second state of the refrigeration device 100 of the first embodiment. [Figure 7] It is a schematic diagram in the heat recovery process of the third state of the refrigeration device 100 of the first embodiment. [Figure 8] It is a schematic diagram in the pressure equalization process of the third state of the refrigeration device 100 of the first embodiment. [Figure 9] It is a schematic diagram in the heat recovery process of the fourth state of the refrigeration device 100 of the first embodiment. [Figure 10] It is a schematic diagram in the pressure equalization process of the fourth state of the refrigeration device 100 of the first embodiment. [Figure 11] It is a schematic diagram of the first container 121, the second container 122, the third container 123, and the fourth container 124 of the first embodiment. [Figure 12] It is a flowchart of the control of the refrigeration device 100 of the first embodiment. [Figure 13] It is a table explaining the first to fourth states of the refrigeration device 100 of the first embodiment. [Figure 14] It is a table explaining the first to fourth states of the refrigeration device 100 of the first embodiment. [Figure 15] It is a schematic diagram of the refrigeration device 200 of the second embodiment. [Figure 16] It is a block diagram of the refrigeration device 200 of the second embodiment. [Figure 17] It is a schematic diagram in the heat recovery process of the first state of the refrigeration device 200 of the second embodiment. [Figure 18] It is a schematic diagram in the pressure equalization process of the first state of the refrigeration device 200 of the second embodiment. [Figure 19] It is a schematic diagram in the heat recovery process of the second state of the refrigeration device 200 of the second embodiment. [Figure 20] It is a schematic diagram in the pressure equalization process of the second state of the refrigeration device 200 of the second embodiment. [Figure 21] It is a schematic diagram in the heat recovery process of the third state of the refrigeration device 200 of the second embodiment. [Figure 22]This is a schematic diagram of the pressure equalization process in the third state of the refrigeration apparatus 200 of the second embodiment. [Figure 23] This is a schematic diagram of the heat recovery process in the fourth state of the refrigeration device 200 of the second embodiment. [Figure 24] This is a schematic diagram of the pressure equalization process in the fourth state of the refrigeration apparatus 200 of the second embodiment. [Figure 25] This table illustrates the first to fourth states of the refrigeration device 200 according to the second embodiment. [Figure 26] This table illustrates the first to fourth states of the refrigeration device 200 according to the second embodiment. [Figure 27] This is a schematic diagram of the refrigeration device 300 according to the third embodiment. [Figure 28] This is a block diagram of the refrigeration system 300 according to the third embodiment. [Figure 29] This is a schematic diagram of the heat recovery process in the first state of the refrigeration device 300 according to the third embodiment. [Figure 30] This is a schematic diagram of the pressure equalization process in the first state of the refrigeration apparatus 300 of the third embodiment. [Figure 31] This is a schematic diagram of the heat recovery process in the second state of the refrigeration device 300 according to the third embodiment. [Figure 32] This is a schematic diagram of the pressure equalization process in the second state of the refrigeration apparatus 300 of the third embodiment. [Figure 33] This is a schematic diagram of the heat recovery process in the third state of the refrigeration device 300 according to the third embodiment. [Figure 34] This is a schematic diagram of the pressure equalization process in the third state of the refrigeration apparatus 300 according to the third embodiment. [Figure 35] This is a schematic diagram of the heat recovery process in the fourth state of the refrigeration device 300 according to the third embodiment. [Figure 36] This is a schematic diagram of the pressure equalization process in the fourth state of the refrigeration apparatus 300 of the third embodiment. [Figure 37] This is a table illustrating the first to fourth states of the refrigeration device 300 according to the third embodiment. [Figure 38] This is a table illustrating the first to fourth states of the refrigeration device 300 according to the third embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0022] —First Embodiment— (1) Overall configuration of the refrigeration unit 100 The refrigeration system 100 of the first embodiment, as shown in Figure 1, comprises a heat source side circuit 101, a utilization side circuit 102, a first fan 143, and a second fan 153. The heat source side circuit 101 has a refrigerant flow path 111 through which the refrigerant flows. The utilization side circuit 102 has a heat medium flow path 112 through which the heat medium flows. In Figure 1, the refrigerant flow path 111 is drawn with a dotted line, and the heat medium flow path 112 is drawn with a solid line. The refrigeration system 100 is, for example, an air conditioning system. When the refrigeration system 100 is an air conditioning system, one of the first fan 143 and the second fan 153 is provided in the indoor unit, and the other is provided in the outdoor unit.

[0023] The refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant channel 111 includes at least one of carbon dioxide, hydrocarbons, ammonia, water, HFCs (hydrofluorocarbons), and HFOs (hydrofluoroolefins). The hydrocarbons are selected from the group consisting of, for example, propane, butane, and isobutane.

[0024] The heat transfer medium flowing through the heat transfer medium channel 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.

[0025] The refrigeration system 100 further includes a control unit 105. As shown in Figure 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 given as an example of the control unit 105. The processor consists of various computing devices such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), DSP (Digital Signal Processor), FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), and GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). The processor reads various programs of the device into memory and executes them. The processor loads the programs stored in memory into the working area of ​​memory and executes them, and by controlling each component through the execution of the programs, it realizes functions that match a predetermined purpose.

[0026] (1-1) Heat source side circuit 101 The heat source circuit 101 constitutes a refrigeration cycle that functions as a heat pump utilizing the heat (warmth or cold) generated when the refrigerant is adsorbed or desorbed from the adsorbent. The adsorbent is a powder of an adsorbent material.

[0027] The heat source side circuit 101 includes a compressor 131, a first container 121, a second container 122, a third container 123, a fourth container 124, and a refrigerant flow path 111. The heat source side circuit 101 further includes refrigerant valves R1-1, R1-2, R1-3, R1-4, R2-1, R2-2, R2-3, R2-4, a first bypass flow path 211, a second bypass flow path 212, a bypass valve R3-1, and a bypass valve R3-2. Hereafter, as necessary, refrigerant valves R1-1, R1-2, R1-3, R1-4, R2-1, R2-2, R2-3, and R2-4 will be collectively referred to as "refrigerant valves R1-1 to R2-4". The refrigerant flow path 111 connects the compressor 131, the first container 121, the second container 122, the third container 123, and the fourth container 124. Refrigerant valves R1-1 to R2-4 are installed on the refrigerant flow path 111.

[0028] The compressor 131 compresses the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant passage 111. The compressor 131 is, for example, a rotary compressor. The compressor 131 draws in low-pressure refrigerant from the refrigerant passage 111, compresses it, and discharges it back into the refrigerant passage 111 as high-pressure refrigerant. Low-pressure refrigerant is the refrigerant in the refrigerant passage 111 before it is compressed by the compressor 131. High-pressure refrigerant is the refrigerant in the refrigerant passage 111 after it has been compressed by the compressor 131. During operation of the compressor 131, lubricating oil sealed in the refrigerant passage 111 is supplied to the sliding parts of the compressor 131. A portion of the lubricating oil is stored at the bottom of the compressor 131's casing.

[0029] The first container 121, the second container 122, the third container 123, and the fourth container 124 each have an adsorbent that adsorbs and desorbs a refrigerant. In the first container 121, the second container 122, the third container 123, and the fourth container 124, the heat of adsorption or the heat of desorption is recovered by the heat medium flowing through the heat medium channel 112. The heat of adsorption is the warmth generated when the adsorbent adsorbs the refrigerant. The heat of desorption is the cold energy generated when the adsorbent desorbs the refrigerant. When the heat medium recovers the heat of adsorption, the temperature of the heat medium rises. When the heat medium recovers the heat of desorption, the temperature of the heat medium falls.

[0030] Refrigerant valves R1-1, R1-2, R1-3, and R1-4 are solenoid valves. The refrigerant flow path 111 on the suction side of the compressor 131 branches into a flow path where refrigerant valve R1-1 is located, a flow path where refrigerant valve R1-2 is located, a flow path where refrigerant valve R1-3 is located, and a flow path where refrigerant valve R1-4 is located.

[0031] Refrigerant valves R2-1, R2-2, R2-3, and R2-4 are solenoid valves. The refrigerant flow path 111 on the discharge side of the compressor 131 branches into a flow path where refrigerant valve R2-1 is located, a flow path where refrigerant valve R2-2 is located, a flow path where refrigerant valve R2-3 is located, and a flow path where refrigerant valve R2-4 is located.

[0032] The suction side of the compressor 131 and the first container 121 are connected via refrigerant valve R1-1. The discharge side of the compressor 131 and the first container 121 are connected via refrigerant valve R2-1. The flow path where refrigerant valve R1-1 is located merges with the flow path where refrigerant valve R2-1 is located.

[0033] The suction side of the compressor 131 and the second container 122 are connected via refrigerant valve R1-2. The discharge side of the compressor 131 and the second container 122 are connected via refrigerant valve R2-2. The flow path where refrigerant valve R1-2 is located merges with the flow path where refrigerant valve R2-2 is located.

[0034] The suction side of the compressor 131 and the third container 123 are connected via refrigerant valve R1-3. The discharge side of the compressor 131 and the third container 123 are connected via refrigerant valve R2-3. The flow path where refrigerant valve R1-3 is located merges with the flow path where refrigerant valve R2-3 is located.

[0035] The suction side of the compressor 131 and the fourth container 124 are connected via refrigerant valve R1-4. The discharge side of the compressor 131 and the fourth container 124 are connected via refrigerant valve R2-4. The flow path where refrigerant valve R1-4 is located merges with the flow path where refrigerant valve R2-4 is located.

[0036] The first bypass channel 211 connects the first container 121 and the third container 123 without passing through the compressor 131.

[0037] The second bypass channel 212 connects the second container 122 and the fourth container 124 without passing through the compressor 131.

[0038] The bypass valve R3-1 is an opening and closing mechanism that opens and closes the first bypass passage 211. The bypass valve R3-1 is installed in the piping through which the refrigerant flows in the first bypass passage 211. The bypass valve R3-1 is a solenoid valve.

[0039] The bypass valve R3-2 is an opening and closing mechanism that opens and closes the second bypass passage 212. The bypass valve R3-2 is installed in the piping through which the refrigerant flows in the second bypass passage 212. The bypass valve R3-2 is a solenoid valve.

[0040] The control unit 105 controls the compressor 131, the refrigerant valves R1-1 to R2-4, the bypass valve R3-1, and the bypass valve R3-2. The control unit 105 controls the rotational speed of the compressor 131. The control unit 105 controls the timing for starting the compressor 131 and the timing for stopping the compressor 131. The control unit 105 controls the opening and closing of each of the refrigerant valves R1-1 to R2-4 to allow or block the flow of refrigerant in the refrigerant passage 111. The control unit 105 controls the opening and closing of the bypass valve R3-1 to allow or block the flow of refrigerant in the first bypass passage 211. The control unit 105 controls the opening and closing of the bypass valve R3-2 to allow or block the flow of refrigerant in the second bypass passage 212.

[0041] (1-2) User side circuit 102 The utilization-side circuit 102 functions as a heat transfer means for utilizing the heat generated in the heat source-side circuit 101 via a heat transfer medium. The heat transfer medium flowing through the heat transfer medium channel 112 transfers the heat of adsorption or desorption recovered in the first container 121, second container 122, third container 123, or fourth container 124 to a predetermined location.

[0042] The user-side circuit 102 includes a first container 121, a second container 122, a third container 123, a fourth container 124, a first heat exchanger 142, a second heat exchanger 152, and a heat transfer medium flow path 112. The user-side circuit 102 further includes a fluid pump 155, and heat transfer valves H1-2, H1-5, H1-6, H2-3, H2-5, H2-6, H3-4, H3-5, H3-6, H4-1, H4-5, H4-6, H5-1, H5-2, H5-3, H5-4, H6-1, H6-2, H6-3, and H6-4. Hereafter, these 20 heat transfer valves will be collectively referred to as "heat transfer valves H1-2 to H6-4" as needed. The heat transfer medium flow path 112 connects the first container 121, the second container 122, the third container 123, the fourth container 124, the first heat exchanger 142, the second heat exchanger 152, and the fluid pump 155. Heat transfer medium valves H1-2 to H6-4 are installed on the heat transfer medium flow path 112.

[0043] The fluid pump 155 delivers the heat transfer medium to the first container 121, the second container 122, the third container 123, and the fourth container 124. The heat transfer medium delivered by the fluid pump 155 circulates through the heat transfer medium flow path 112 by passing through the first container 121, the second container 122, the third container 123, the fourth container 124, the first heat exchanger 142, and the second heat exchanger 152 in a predetermined order.

[0044] The heat transfer valves H1-2 to H6-4 are solenoid valves. The heat transfer valves H1-2 to H6-4 change the flow direction of the heat transfer medium flowing through the heat transfer medium passage 112. The heat transfer valves H1-2 to H6-4 are arranged so that the refrigeration device 100 can be switched between a first state, a second state, a third state, and a fourth state.

[0045] The flow path where heat transfer valve H1-2 is located, the flow path where heat transfer valve H1-5 is located, and the flow path where heat transfer valve H1-6 is located merge and connect to the flow path where the first container 121 is located.

[0046] The flow path where heat transfer valve H2-3 is located, the flow path where heat transfer valve H2-5 is located, and the flow path where heat transfer valve H2-6 is located merge and connect to the flow path where the second container 122 is located.

[0047] The flow path where heat transfer valve H3-4 is located, the flow path where heat transfer valve H3-5 is located, and the flow path where heat transfer valve H3-6 is located merge and connect to the flow path where the third container 123 is located.

[0048] The flow path where heat transfer valve H4-1 is located, the flow path where heat transfer valve H4-5 is located, and the flow path where heat transfer valve H4-6 is located merge and connect to the flow path where the fourth container 124 is located.

[0049] The flow path where heat transfer valve H5-1 is located, the flow path where heat transfer valve H5-2 is located, the flow path where heat transfer valve H5-3 is located, and the flow path where heat transfer valve H5-4 is located merge and connect to the flow path where the second heat exchanger 152 is located.

[0050] The flow path where heat transfer valve H6-1 is located, the flow path where heat transfer valve H6-2 is located, the flow path where heat transfer valve H6-3 is located, and the flow path where heat transfer valve H6-4 is located merge and connect to the flow path where the first heat exchanger 142 is located.

[0051] The flow path where heat transfer valve H4-1 is located, the flow path where heat transfer valve H5-1 is located, and the flow path where heat transfer valve H6-1 is located merge and connect to the flow path where the first container 121 is located.

[0052] The flow path where heat transfer valve H1-2 is located, the flow path where heat transfer valve H5-2 is located, and the flow path where heat transfer valve H6-2 is located merge and connect to the flow path where the second container 122 is located.

[0053] The flow path where heat transfer valve H2-3 is located, the flow path where heat transfer valve H5-3 is located, and the flow path where heat transfer valve H6-3 is located merge and connect to the flow path where the third container 123 is located.

[0054] The flow path where heat transfer valve H3-4 is located, the flow path where heat transfer valve H5-4 is located, and the flow path where heat transfer valve H6-4 is located merge and connect to the flow path where the fourth container 124 is located.

[0055] The flow paths where heat transfer valves H1-5 are located, the flow paths where heat transfer valves H2-5 are located, the flow paths where heat transfer valves H3-5 are located, and the flow paths where heat transfer valves H4-5 are located merge and connect to the flow path where the second heat exchanger 152 is located.

[0056] The flow paths where heat transfer valves H1-6 are located, the flow paths where heat transfer valves H2-6 are located, the flow paths where heat transfer valves H3-6 are located, and the flow paths where heat transfer valves H4-6 are located merge and connect to the flow path where the first heat exchanger 142 is located.

[0057] The fluid pump 155 is installed in the flow path where the second vessel 122 is located. The suction side of the fluid pump 155 is connected to the second vessel 122. The discharge side of the fluid pump 155 is connected to the flow path where the heat transfer valve H2-3 is located, the flow path where the heat transfer valve H2-5 is located, and the flow path where the heat transfer valve H2-6 is located.

[0058] In Figures 3 and 4, when the refrigeration system 100 is in the first state, the refrigerant flow path 111 is shown by a thick dashed line, and the heat transfer medium flow path 112 is shown by a thick solid line. In Figures 5 and 6, when the refrigeration system 100 is in the second state, the refrigerant flow path 111 is shown by a thick dashed line, and the heat transfer medium flow path 112 is shown by a thick solid line. In Figures 7 and 8, when the refrigeration system 100 is in the third state, the refrigerant flow path 111 is shown by a thick dashed line, and the heat transfer medium flow path 112 is shown by a thick solid line. In Figures 9 and 10, when the refrigeration system 100 is in the fourth state, the refrigerant flow path 111 is shown by a thick dashed line, and the heat transfer medium flow path 112 is shown by a thick solid line. In Figures 3 to 10, among the refrigerant valves R1-1 to R2-4, those that are open to allow the refrigerant to pass through are shown as filled in black. In Figures 3 to 10, among the heat transfer fluid valves H1-2 to H6-4, those that are open to allow the heat transfer fluid to pass through are shown as filled in black.

[0059] When the refrigeration device 100 is in the first state, as shown in Figures 3 and 4, the heat transfer medium flow path 112 has a first circulation flow path C1 through which the heat transfer medium circulates. The heat transfer medium circulating in the first circulation flow path C1 passes through the fluid pump 155, the heat transfer medium valve H2-3, the third container 123, the heat transfer medium valve H3-6, the first heat exchanger 142, the heat transfer medium valve H6-4, the fourth container 124, the heat transfer medium valve H4-1, the first container 121, the heat transfer medium valve H1-5, the second heat exchanger 152, the heat transfer medium valve H5-2, the second container 122, and the fluid pump 155 in this order. In the first state, the fluid pump 155 circulates the heat transfer medium in the first circulation flow path C1.

[0060] When the refrigeration device 100 is in the second state, as shown in Figures 5 and 6, the heat transfer medium flow path 112 has a second circulation flow path C2 through which the heat transfer medium circulates. The heat transfer medium circulating in the second circulation flow path C2 passes through the fluid pump 155, the heat transfer medium valve H2-5, the second heat exchanger 152, the heat transfer medium valve H5-3, the third container 123, the heat transfer medium valve H3-4, the fourth container 124, the heat transfer medium valve H4-6, the first heat exchanger 142, the heat transfer medium valve H6-1, the first container 121, the heat transfer medium valve H1-2, the second container 122, and the fluid pump 155 in this order. In the second state, the fluid pump 155 circulates the heat transfer medium in the second circulation flow path C2.

[0061] When the refrigeration device 100 is in the third state, as shown in Figures 7 and 8, the heat transfer medium flow path 112 has a third circulation flow path C3 through which the heat transfer medium circulates. The heat transfer medium circulating in the third circulation flow path C3 passes through the fluid pump 155, the heat transfer medium valve H2-3, the third container 123, the heat transfer medium valve H3-5, the second heat exchanger 152, the heat transfer medium valve H5-4, the fourth container 124, the heat transfer medium valve H4-1, the first container 121, the heat transfer medium valve H1-6, the first heat exchanger 142, the heat transfer medium valve H6-2, the second container 122, and the fluid pump 155 in this order. In the third state, the fluid pump 155 circulates the heat transfer medium in the third circulation flow path C3.

[0062] When the refrigeration device 100 is in the fourth state, as shown in Figures 9 and 10, the heat transfer medium flow path 112 has a fourth circulation flow path C4 through which the heat transfer medium circulates. The heat transfer medium circulating in the fourth circulation flow path C4 passes through the fluid pump 155, the heat transfer medium valve H2-6, the first heat exchanger 142, the heat transfer medium valve H6-3, the third container 123, the heat transfer medium valve H3-4, the fourth container 124, the heat transfer medium valve H4-5, the second heat exchanger 152, the heat transfer medium valve H5-1, the first container 121, the heat transfer medium valve H1-2, the second container 122, and the fluid pump 155 in this order. In the fourth state, the fluid pump 155 circulates the heat transfer medium in the fourth circulation flow path C4.

[0063] In the first circulation channel C1, the second circulation channel C2, the third circulation channel C3, and the fourth circulation channel C4, the first container 121 is connected to the second container 122 and the fourth container 124, the second container 122 is connected to the third container 123, and the third container 123 is connected to the fourth container 124. In the first circulation channel C1, the second circulation channel C2, the third circulation channel C3, and the fourth circulation channel C4, the heat transfer medium circulates between the first container 121, the second container 122, the third container 123, and the fourth container 124.

[0064] The control unit 105 controls the first fan 143, the second fan 153, the fluid pump 155, and the heat transfer valves H1-2 to H6-4. The control unit 105 controls the capacity of the fluid pump 155. The control unit 105 controls the rotational speed of the first fan 143 and the second fan 153. The control unit 105 controls the heat transfer valves H1-2 to H6-4 to switch the refrigeration system 100 between the first state, the second state, the third state, and the fourth state.

[0065] (1-3) Container 121, Container 212, Container 3123, and Container 4124 The first container 121, the second container 122, the third container 123, and the fourth container 124 each comprise a heat recovery member, an adsorbent, and a casing. The first container 121, the second container 122, the third container 123, and the fourth container 124 each have a first space through which a refrigerant flows and a second space through which a heat transfer medium flows. The first space is part of the refrigerant flow path 111. The second space is part of the heat transfer medium flow path 112. The first space and the second space do not communicate with each other.

[0066] The heat recovery component 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 refrigerant pressure in the first space. The adsorbent is supported on the first surface, which is the surface of the heat recovery component.

[0067] 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 and organic ligands. In a metal-organic framework, the organic ligands bind to the metal ions, resulting in a polymeric structure with countless openings inside. The opening diameter and topology of a metal-organic framework can be adjusted by selectively combining metal ions and organic ligands. Therefore, by selecting and combining metal ions and organic ligands, the opening diameter of a metal-organic framework can be adjusted, and it can selectively adsorb target substances. Metal-organic frameworks are used, for example, as porous materials that have the function of selective storage and separation of molecules and ions.

[0068] In the refrigeration system 100, a metal-organic structure is used as an adsorbent for adsorbing and desorbing the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant channel 111. Examples of metal-organic structures include MOF-5, MOF-200, UiO-66, and MIL-101. The adsorbent used in the refrigeration system 100 is, for example, a powder of the metal-organic structure or a molded article of the metal-organic structure. 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 binders include acrylic resins, polyester resins, polyolefin resins, and polyurethane resins.

[0069] The heat recovery member is of the cross-fin type. As shown in Figure 11, the heat recovery member includes a plurality of fins 161 and a heat transfer tube 162. The heat transfer tube 162 has a plurality of straight sections 162a extending in a straight line and a folded section 162b connecting two straight sections 162a. In Figure 11, the thickness of the heat transfer tube 162 is omitted. The plurality of fins 161 have through holes in their thickness direction through which the straight sections 162a of the heat transfer tube 162 pass. The plurality of fins 161 are arranged around the straight sections 162a of the heat transfer tube 162 so as to be stacked at predetermined intervals along the direction in which the straight sections 162a extend. The first end 162c and the second end 162d of the heat transfer tube 162 are connected to the heat transfer medium flow path 112. The plurality of fins 161 and the heat transfer tube 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 first bypass flow path 211 or the second bypass flow path 212.

[0070] The refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant channel 111 flows into the casing 163 through the first opening 163a and flows out of the casing 163 through the first opening 163a. ​​The heat transfer medium flowing through the heat transfer medium channel 112 flows into the heat transfer tube 162 through the first end 162c and flows out of the heat transfer tube 162 through the second end 162d.

[0071] The first bypass channel 211 connects the second opening 163b of the first container 121 and the second opening 163b of the third container 123. The first bypass channel 211 also connects the first space 164a of the first container 121 and the first space 164a of the third container 123.

[0072] The second bypass channel 212 connects the second opening 163b of the second container 122 and the second opening 163b of the fourth container 124. The second bypass channel 212 also connects the first space 164a of the second container 122 and the first space 164a of the fourth container 124.

[0073] As shown in Figure 11, the first space 164a through which the refrigerant flows is the space inside the casing 163 and outside the heat transfer tubes 162. The second space 164b through which the heat transfer medium flows is the space inside the casing 163 and inside the heat transfer tubes 162. The first surface 182 on which the adsorbent 181, which adsorbs and desorbs, is supported includes at least a portion of the outer surfaces of the multiple fins 161 and the heat transfer tubes 162. The first surface 182 is, for example, the surfaces of the multiple fins 161 and the outer surfaces of the heat transfer tubes 162. The first surface 182 is in contact with the first space 164a. Therefore, the refrigerant in the first space 164a is in contact with the adsorbent 181 supported on the first surface 182.

[0074] 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 greater 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 less than the desorption pressure. The adsorption pressure is the minimum pressure range in which the adsorbent 181 can adsorb the refrigerant at the temperature of the first space 164a. The desorption pressure is the maximum pressure range in 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.

[0075] (2) Operation of the refrigeration unit 100 The operation of the refrigeration system 100 will be explained in the case where the refrigeration system 100 is an air conditioning system. The first heat exchanger 142 is an outdoor heat exchanger, and the second heat exchanger 152 is an indoor heat exchanger.

[0076] The adsorbents 181 of the first container 121, the second container 122, the third container 123, and the fourth container 124 adsorb and desorb the refrigerant in the refrigerant flow path 111. The adsorbent 181 adsorbs the refrigerant when it is in contact with refrigerant in the first space 164a at a pressure equal to or greater than the adsorption pressure. The adsorbent 181 desorbs the refrigerant when it is in contact with refrigerant in the first space 164a at a pressure equal to or less than the desorption pressure.

[0077] When the refrigeration system 100 is in the first state, it is possible to connect the suction side of the compressor 131 to the first container 121 to create a low-pressure state inside the first container 121, and to connect the discharge side of the compressor 131 to the third container 123 to create a high-pressure state inside the third container 123. When the first container 121 is in a low-pressure state, the adsorbent 181 of the first container 121 is in contact with the low-pressure refrigerant in the first space 164a. When the third container 123 is in a high-pressure state, the adsorbent 181 of the third container 123 is in contact with the high-pressure refrigerant in the first space 164a.

[0078] When the refrigeration system 100 is in the second state, it is possible to connect the suction side of the compressor 131 to the second container 122 to create a low-pressure state inside the second container 122, and to connect the discharge side of the compressor 131 to the fourth container 124 to create a high-pressure state inside the fourth container 124. When the second container 122 is in a low-pressure state, the adsorbent 181 of the second container 122 is in contact with the low-pressure refrigerant in the first space 164a. When the fourth container 124 is in a high-pressure state, the adsorbent 181 of the fourth container 124 is in contact with the high-pressure refrigerant in the first space 164a.

[0079] When the refrigeration system 100 is in the third state, it is possible to connect the suction side of the compressor 131 to the third container 123 to create a low-pressure state inside the third container 123, and to connect the discharge side of the compressor 131 to the first container 121 to create a high-pressure state inside the first container 121. When the third container 123 is in a low-pressure state, the adsorbent 181 of the third container 123 is in contact with the low-pressure refrigerant in the first space 164a. When the first container 121 is in a high-pressure state, the adsorbent 181 of the first container 121 is in contact with the high-pressure refrigerant in the first space 164a.

[0080] When the refrigeration system 100 is in the fourth state, it is possible to connect the suction side of the compressor 131 to the fourth container 124 to create a low-pressure state inside the fourth container 124, and to connect the discharge side of the compressor 131 to the second container 122 to create a high-pressure state inside the second container 122. When the fourth container 124 is in a low-pressure state, the adsorbent 181 of the fourth container 124 is in contact with the low-pressure refrigerant in the first space 164a. When the second container 122 is in a high-pressure state, the adsorbent 181 of the second container 122 is in contact with the high-pressure refrigerant in the first space 164a.

[0081] When the refrigeration device 100 is in the first state, the adsorbent 181 in the third container 123 is in contact with the high-pressure refrigerant, and the adsorbent 181 in the first container 121 is in contact with the low-pressure refrigerant. In the third container 123, the adsorbent 181 gradually adsorbs the refrigerant, and in the process, the adsorbent 181 releases heat. In the first container 121, the adsorbent 181 gradually desorbs the refrigerant, and in the process, the adsorbent 181 absorbs heat. In the third container 123, the heat generated in the process of the adsorbent 181 adsorbing the refrigerant in the first space 164a is recovered in the heat transfer medium in the second space 164b. In the first container 121, the cold generated in the process of the adsorbent 181 desorbing the refrigerant adsorbed on it is recovered in the heat transfer medium in the second space 164b. Therefore, in the third container 123, thermal energy is recovered into the heat transfer medium flowing through the first circulation channel C1, and in the first container 121, cold energy is recovered into the heat transfer medium flowing through the first circulation channel C1.

[0082] When the refrigeration device 100 is in the second state, the adsorbent 181 in the fourth container 124 is in contact with the high-pressure refrigerant, and the adsorbent 181 in the second container 122 is in contact with the low-pressure refrigerant. In the fourth container 124, the adsorbent 181 gradually adsorbs the refrigerant, releasing heat in the process. In the second container 122, the adsorbent 181 gradually desorbs the refrigerant, absorbing heat in the process. In the fourth container 124, the heat generated during the process of the adsorbent 181 adsorbing the refrigerant in the first space 164a is recovered in the heat transfer medium in the second space 164b. In the second container 122, the cold generated during the process of the adsorbent 181 desorbing the refrigerant adsorbed on it is recovered in the heat transfer medium in the second space 164b. Therefore, in the fourth container 124, thermal energy is recovered into the heat transfer medium flowing through the second circulation channel C2, and in the second container 122, cold energy is recovered into the heat transfer medium flowing through the second circulation channel C2.

[0083] When the refrigeration device 100 is in the third state, the adsorbent 181 in the first container 121 is in contact with the high-pressure refrigerant, and the adsorbent 181 in the third container 123 is in contact with the low-pressure refrigerant. In the first container 121, the adsorbent 181 gradually adsorbs the refrigerant, releasing heat in the process. In the third container 123, the adsorbent 181 gradually desorbs the refrigerant, absorbing heat in the process. In the first container 121, the heat generated during the process of the adsorbent 181 adsorbing the refrigerant in the first space 164a is recovered in the heat transfer medium in the second space 164b. In the third container 123, the cold generated during the process of the adsorbent 181 desorbing the refrigerant adsorbed on it is recovered in the heat transfer medium in the second space 164b. Therefore, in the first container 121, thermal energy is recovered into the heat transfer medium flowing through the third circulation channel C3, and in the third container 123, cold energy is recovered into the heat transfer medium flowing through the third circulation channel C3.

[0084] When the refrigeration device 100 is in the fourth state, the adsorbent 181 in the second container 122 is in contact with the high-pressure refrigerant, and the adsorbent 181 in the fourth container 124 is in contact with the low-pressure refrigerant. In the second container 122, the adsorbent 181 gradually adsorbs the refrigerant, releasing heat in the process. In the fourth container 124, the adsorbent 181 gradually desorbs the refrigerant, absorbing heat in the process. In the second container 122, the heat generated during the process of the adsorbent 181 adsorbing the refrigerant in the first space 164a is recovered into the heat transfer medium in the second space 164b. In the fourth container 124, the cold generated during the process of the adsorbent 181 desorbing the refrigerant adsorbed on it is recovered into the heat transfer medium in the second space 164b. Therefore, in the second container 122, thermal energy is recovered into the heat transfer medium flowing through the fourth circulation channel C4, and in the fourth container 124, cold energy is recovered into the heat transfer medium flowing through the fourth circulation channel C4.

[0085] The refrigeration unit 100 performs a first operation in which it repeatedly transitions through the first state, second state, third state, fourth state, and back to the first state.

[0086] When the refrigeration system 100 is in the first state, the heat transfer medium circulates through the first circulation channel C1, passing in the following order: first heat exchanger 142, fourth container 124, first container 121, second heat exchanger 152, second container 122, third container 123, and first heat exchanger 142. The fourth container 124 is the container from which cold energy was recovered into the heat transfer medium when the refrigeration system 100 was in the previous fourth state. The first container 121 is the container from which cold energy was recovered into the heat transfer medium. The second container 122 is the container from which warm energy was recovered into the heat transfer medium when the refrigeration system 100 was in the previous fourth state. The third container 123 is the container from which warm energy was recovered into the heat transfer medium.

[0087] When the refrigeration system 100 is in the second state, the heat transfer medium circulates through the second circulation channel C2, passing in the following order: first heat exchanger 142, first container 121, second container 122, second heat exchanger 152, third container 123, fourth container 124, and first heat exchanger 142. The first container 121 is the container from which cold energy was recovered into the heat transfer medium when the refrigeration system 100 was in the previous first state. The second container 122 is the container from which cold energy is recovered into the heat transfer medium. The third container 123 is the container from which warm energy was recovered into the heat transfer medium when the refrigeration system 100 was in the previous first state. The fourth container 124 is the container from which warm energy is recovered into the heat transfer medium.

[0088] When the refrigeration system 100 is in the third state, the heat transfer medium circulates through the third circulation channel C3, passing in the following order: first heat exchanger 142, second container 122, third container 123, second heat exchanger 152, fourth container 124, first container 121, and first heat exchanger 142. The second container 122 is the container from which cold energy was recovered into the heat transfer medium when the refrigeration system 100 was in the previous second state. The third container 123 is the container from which cold energy was recovered into the heat transfer medium. The fourth container 124 is the container from which warm energy was recovered into the heat transfer medium when the refrigeration system 100 was in the previous second state. The first container 121 is the container from which warm energy was recovered into the heat transfer medium.

[0089] When the refrigeration system 100 is in the fourth state, the heat transfer medium circulates through the fourth circulation channel C4, passing in the following order: first heat exchanger 142, third container 123, fourth container 124, second heat exchanger 152, first container 121, second container 122, and first heat exchanger 142. The third container 123 is the container from which cold energy was recovered into the heat transfer medium when the refrigeration system 100 was in the previous third state. The fourth container 124 is the container from which cold energy is recovered into the heat transfer medium. The first container 121 is the container from which warm energy was recovered into the heat transfer medium when the refrigeration system 100 was in the previous third state. The second container 122 is the container from which warm energy is recovered into the heat transfer medium.

[0090] Therefore, while the refrigeration system 100 is performing its first operation, the heat transfer medium flowing through the heat transfer medium channel 112 circulates by passing through the first heat exchanger 142, the container from which cold energy has been recovered, the container from which cold energy is being recovered, the second heat exchanger 152, the container from which heat energy has been recovered, the container from which heat is being recovered, and the first heat exchanger 142 in that order. The container from which cold energy has been recovered is one of the first container 121, the second container 122, the third container 123, and the fourth container 124 from which cold energy has been recovered into the heat transfer medium in the state immediately preceding the refrigeration system 100. The container from which cold energy is being recovered is one of the first container 121, the second container 122, the third container 123, and the fourth container 124 from which cold energy is being recovered into the heat transfer medium in the current state of the refrigeration system 100. A container from which heat has been recovered is one of the first container 121, second container 122, third container 123, and fourth container 124 from which heat has been recovered into the heat transfer medium in the state immediately preceding the refrigeration device 100. A container from which heat is currently being recovered is one of the first container 121, second container 122, third container 123, and fourth container 124 from which heat is being recovered into the heat transfer medium in the current state of the refrigeration device 100. If the current state of the refrigeration device 100 is the first state, second state, third state, and fourth state, then the state immediately preceding the refrigeration device 100 is the fourth state, first state, second state, and third state, respectively.

[0091] When the refrigeration device 100 is in the first state, the container from which cold energy has been recovered is the fourth container 124, the container from which cold energy is being recovered is the first container 121, the container from which heat has been recovered is the second container 122, and the container from which heat is being recovered is the third container 123.

[0092] When the refrigeration device 100 is in the second state, the container from which cold energy has been recovered is the first container 121, the container from which cold energy is being recovered is the second container 122, the container from which heat has been recovered is the third container 123, and the container from which heat is being recovered is the fourth container 124.

[0093] When the refrigeration device 100 is in the third state, the container from which cold energy has been recovered is the second container 122, the container from which cold energy is being recovered is the third container 123, the container from which heat has been recovered is the fourth container 124, and the container from which heat is being recovered is the first container 121.

[0094] When the refrigeration device 100 is in the fourth state, the container from which cold energy has been recovered is the third container 123, the container from which cold energy is being recovered is the fourth container 124, the container from which heat has been recovered is the first container 121, and the container from which heat is being recovered is the second container 122.

[0095] By performing a first operation, the refrigeration system 100 can maintain a state in which the refrigerant is adsorbed onto the adsorbent 181 in one of the first container 121, second container 122, third container 123, and fourth container 124, and the refrigerant is desorbed from the adsorbent 181 in the other one. During the first operation, the refrigeration system 100 can continue to recover heat and cold through the heat transfer medium flowing through the first circulation channel C1, second circulation channel C2, third circulation channel C3, and fourth circulation channel C4.

[0096] Therefore, the refrigeration system 100 can continue to supply the heat transfer medium heated by the recovered thermal energy to the first heat exchanger 142, and can continue to supply the heat transfer medium cooled by the recovered refrigerant energy to the second heat exchanger 152. The air heated by heat exchange with the heat transfer medium in the first heat exchanger 142 is sent to a predetermined location by the first fan 143. The air cooled by heat exchange with the heat transfer medium in the second heat exchanger 152 is sent to a predetermined location by the second fan 153.

[0097] (3) Control of the refrigeration unit 100 When the first operation of the refrigeration system 100 is performed, the control unit 105 controls the compressor 131, refrigerant valves R1-1 to R2-4, bypass valve R3-1, bypass valve R3-2, fluid pump 155, and heat transfer valves H1-2 to H6-4 so that the refrigeration system 100 repeatedly transitions through the first state, second state, third state, fourth state, and back to the first state.

[0098] When the first operation of the refrigeration system 100 is performed, the control unit 105 controls each controlled object so that it repeatedly transitions in the order of first state (steps S11-S12), second state (steps S13-S14), third state (steps S15-S16), fourth state (steps S17-S18), and first state (steps S11-S12), as shown in Figure 12.

[0099] The first to fourth states each consist of a heat recovery process and a pressure equalization process. Step S11 is the heat recovery process of the first state, as shown in Figure 3. Step S12 is the pressure equalization process of the first state, as shown in Figure 4. Step S13 is the heat recovery process of the second state, as shown in Figure 5. Step S14 is the pressure equalization process of the second state, as shown in Figure 6. Step S15 is the heat recovery process of the third state, as shown in Figure 7. Step S16 is the pressure equalization process of the third state, as shown in Figure 8. Step S17 is the heat recovery process of the fourth state, as shown in Figure 9. Step S18 is the pressure equalization process of the fourth state, as shown in Figure 10.

[0100] The pressure equalization process for the first state is the process immediately preceding the transition of the refrigeration device 100 from the first state to the second state. In other words, the pressure equalization process for the first state is the process from a predetermined period before the transition from the first state to the second state until the transition occurs.

[0101] The pressure equalization process for the second state is the process immediately preceding the transition of the refrigeration device 100 from the second state to the third state. In other words, the pressure equalization process for the second state is the process from a predetermined period before the transition from the second state to the third state until the transition occurs.

[0102] The pressure equalization process for the third state is the process immediately preceding the transition of the refrigeration device 100 from the third state to the fourth state. In other words, the pressure equalization process for the third state is the process from a predetermined period before the transition from the third state to the fourth state until the transition occurs.

[0103] The fourth-state pressure equalization process is the process immediately preceding the transition of the refrigeration device 100 from the fourth state to the first state. In other words, the fourth-state pressure equalization process is the process from a predetermined period before the transition from the fourth state to the first state until the transition occurs.

[0104] Figure 13 is a table showing the state of the compressor 131, refrigerant valves R1-1 to R2-4, bypass valve R3-1, and bypass valve R3-2 in each of the heat recovery and pressure equalization processes for the first to fourth states. Figure 14 is a table showing the state of the fluid pump 155 and heat transfer valves H1-2 to H6-4 in the first to fourth states. In Figure 14, the state of the fluid pump 155 and heat transfer valves H1-2 to H6-4 is the same in the heat recovery and pressure equalization processes.

[0105] In Figures 13 and 14, the compressor 131 and the fluid pump 155 operate when "ON" and stop when "OFF". In Figure 13, the refrigerant valves R1-1 to R2-4, bypass valve R3-1, and bypass valve R3-2 are open when "ON" and closed when "OFF". In Figure 14, the heat transfer fluid valves H1-2 to H6-4 are open when "ON" and closed when "OFF".

[0106] The control unit 105 performs the following control as shown in Figure 13.

[0107] The control unit 105 continuously drives the compressor 131 while the refrigeration unit 100 is performing the first operation. In other words, the control unit 105 does not stop the operation of the compressor 131 while the refrigeration unit 100 is in the first to fourth states.

[0108] The control unit 105 keeps refrigerant valves R1-1 and R2-3 open, and refrigerant valves R1-2, R1-3, R1-4, R2-1, R2-2, R2-4, and bypass valve R3-1 closed while the refrigeration system 100 is in the first state. The control unit 105 keeps bypass valve R3-2 closed while the refrigeration system 100 is in the first state heat recovery process. The control unit 105 keeps bypass valve R3-2 open while the refrigeration system 100 is in the first state pressure equalization process.

[0109] The control unit 105 keeps refrigerant valves R1-2 and R2-4 open, and refrigerant valves R1-1, R1-3, R1-4, R2-1, R2-2, R2-3, and bypass valve R3-2 closed while the refrigeration unit 100 is in the second state. The control unit 105 keeps bypass valve R3-1 closed while the refrigeration unit 100 is in the second state heat recovery process. The control unit 105 keeps bypass valve R3-1 open while the refrigeration unit 100 is in the second state pressure equalization process.

[0110] The control unit 105 keeps refrigerant valves R1-3 and R2-1 open, and refrigerant valves R1-1, R1-2, R1-4, R2-2, R2-3, R2-4, and bypass valve R3-1 closed while the refrigeration unit 100 is in the third state. The control unit 105 keeps bypass valve R3-2 closed while the refrigeration unit 100 is in the third state heat recovery process. The control unit 105 keeps bypass valve R3-2 open while the refrigeration unit 100 is in the third state pressure equalization process.

[0111] The control unit 105 keeps refrigerant valves R1-4 and R2-2 open, and refrigerant valves R1-1, R1-2, R1-3, R2-1, R2-3, R2-4, and bypass valve R3-2 closed while the refrigeration unit 100 is in the fourth state. The control unit 105 keeps bypass valve R3-1 closed while the refrigeration unit 100 is in the fourth state heat recovery process. The control unit 105 keeps bypass valve R3-1 open while the refrigeration unit 100 is in the fourth state pressure equalization process.

[0112] The control unit 105 performs the following control as shown in Figure 14.

[0113] The control unit 105 continuously drives the fluid pump 155 while the refrigeration unit 100 is performing the first operation. In other words, the control unit 105 does not stop the operation of the fluid pump 155 while the refrigeration unit 100 is in the first to fourth states.

[0114] The control unit 105 ensures that while the refrigeration device 100 is in the first state, the heat transfer valves H1-5, H2-3, H3-6, H4-1, H5-2, and H6-4 are open, and the heat transfer valves H1-2, H1-6, H2-5, H2-6, H3-4, H3-5, H4-5, H4-6, H5-1, H5-3, H5-4, H6-1, H6-2, and H6-3 are closed.

[0115] The control unit 105 ensures that while the refrigeration device 100 is in the second state, the heat transfer valves H1-2, H2-5, H3-4, H4-6, H5-3, and H6-1 are open, and the heat transfer valves H1-5, H1-6, H2-3, H2-6, H3-5, H3-6, H4-1, H4-5, H5-1, H5-2, H5-4, H6-2, H6-3, and H6-4 are closed.

[0116] The control unit 105 ensures that while the refrigeration device 100 is in the third state, the heat transfer valves H1-6, H2-3, H3-5, H4-1, H5-4, and H6-2 are open, and the heat transfer valves H1-2, H1-5, H2-5, H2-6, H3-4, H3-6, H4-5, H4-6, H5-1, H5-2, H5-3, H6-1, H6-3, and H6-4 are closed.

[0117] The control unit 105 ensures that while the refrigeration device 100 is in the fourth state, heat transfer valves H1-2, H2-6, H3-4, H4-5, H5-1, and H6-3 are open, and heat transfer valves H1-5, H1-6, H2-3, H2-5, H3-5, H3-6, H4-1, H4-6, H5-2, H5-3, H5-4, H6-1, H6-2, and H6-4 are closed.

[0118] Next, the heat recovery process and pressure equalization process for each of the first to fourth states will be described.

[0119] (3-1) Heat recovery process When the refrigeration device 100 is in the first state, the heat transfer medium circulating in the first circulation channel C1 recovers warmth in the third container 123 and coldness in the first container 121. Therefore, while the refrigeration device 100 is in the first state, the third container 123 is heated by the heat transfer medium from which warmth has been recovered, and the first container 121 is cooled by the heat transfer medium from which coldness has been recovered.

[0120] When the refrigeration device 100 is in the second state, the heat transfer medium circulating in the second circulation channel C2 recovers warmth in the fourth container 124 and coldness in the second container 122. Therefore, while the refrigeration device 100 is in the second state, the fourth container 124 is heated by the heat transfer medium from which warmth has been recovered, and the second container 122 is cooled by the heat transfer medium from which coldness has been recovered.

[0121] When the refrigeration device 100 is in the third state, the heat transfer medium circulating in the third circulation channel C3 recovers thermal energy in the first container 121 and cold energy in the third container 123. Therefore, while the refrigeration device 100 is in the third state, the first container 121 is heated by the heat transfer medium from which thermal energy has been recovered, and the third container 123 is cooled by the heat transfer medium from which cold energy has been recovered.

[0122] When the refrigeration device 100 is in the fourth state, the heat transfer medium circulating in the fourth circulation channel C4 recovers warmth in the second container 122 and coldness in the fourth container 124. Therefore, while the refrigeration device 100 is in the fourth state, the second container 122 is heated by the heat transfer medium from which warmth has been recovered, and the fourth container 124 is cooled by the heat transfer medium from which coldness has been recovered.

[0123] When the refrigeration system 100 transitions from the first state to the second state, in the second circulation channel C2, the heat transfer medium that has passed through the second heat exchanger 152 is heated by heat exchange with the third container 123 (heat recovery container) which was heated when the refrigeration system 100 was in the previous first state. After that, heat is recovered in the fourth container 124 (heat recovery container) and flows into the first heat exchanger 142. Also, when the refrigeration system 100 transitions from the first state to the second state, in the second circulation channel C2, the heat transfer medium that has passed through the first heat exchanger 142 is cooled by heat exchange with the first container 121 (cold energy recovery container) which was cooled when the refrigeration system 100 was in the previous first state. After that, cold energy is recovered in the second container 122 (cold energy recovery container) and flows into the second heat exchanger 152.

[0124] When the refrigeration system 100 transitions from the second state to the third state, in the third circulation channel C3, the heat transfer medium that has passed through the second heat exchanger 152 is heated by heat exchange with the fourth container 124 (heat recovery container) which was heated when the refrigeration system 100 was in the previous second state. After that, heat is recovered in the first container 121 (heat recovery container) and flows into the first heat exchanger 142. Also, when the refrigeration system 100 transitions from the second state to the third state, in the third circulation channel C3, the heat transfer medium that has passed through the first heat exchanger 142 is cooled by heat exchange with the second container 122 (cold energy recovery container) which was cooled when the refrigeration system 100 was in the previous second state. After that, cold energy is recovered in the third container 123 (cold energy recovery container) and flows into the second heat exchanger 152.

[0125] When the refrigeration system 100 transitions from the third state to the fourth state, in the fourth circulation channel C4, the heat transfer medium that has passed through the second heat exchanger 152 is heated by heat exchange with the first container 121 (heat recovery container) which was heated when the refrigeration system 100 was in the previous third state. After that, heat is recovered in the second container 122 (heat recovery container) and flows into the first heat exchanger 142. Also, when the refrigeration system 100 transitions from the third state to the fourth state, in the fourth circulation channel C4, the heat transfer medium that has passed through the first heat exchanger 142 is cooled by heat exchange with the third container 123 (cold energy recovery container) which was cooled when the refrigeration system 100 was in the previous third state. After that, cold energy is recovered in the fourth container 124 (cold energy recovery container) and flows into the second heat exchanger 152.

[0126] When the refrigeration system 100 transitions from the fourth state to the first state, in the first circulation channel C1, the heat transfer medium that has passed through the second heat exchanger 152 is heated by heat exchange with the second container 122 (heat recovery container) which was heated when the refrigeration system 100 was in the previous fourth state. After that, heat is recovered in the third container 123 (heat recovery container) and flows into the first heat exchanger 142. Also, when the refrigeration system 100 transitions from the fourth state to the first state, in the first circulation channel C1, the heat transfer medium that has passed through the first heat exchanger 142 is cooled by heat exchange with the fourth container 124 (cold energy recovery container) which was cooled when the refrigeration system 100 was in the previous fourth state. After that, cold energy is recovered in the first container 121 (cold energy recovery container) and flows into the second heat exchanger 152.

[0127] Therefore, while the refrigeration unit 100 is performing its first operation, the heat transfer medium that has passed through the second heat exchanger 152 is heated in the heat recovery container, then heated in the heat recovery container, and then flows into the first heat exchanger 142. Also, while the refrigeration unit 100 is performing its first operation, the heat transfer medium that has passed through the first heat exchanger 142 is cooled in the cold energy recovery container, then cooled in the cold energy recovery container, and then flows into the second heat exchanger 152.

[0128] (3-2) Pressure equalization process In the pressure equalization process, similar to the heat recovery process, the heat transfer medium that has passed through the second heat exchanger 152 is heated in the container where heat has been recovered and the container where heat is being recovered, and flows into the first heat exchanger 142. The heat transfer medium that has passed through the first heat exchanger 142 is cooled in the container where cold energy has been recovered and the container where cold energy is being recovered, and flows into the second heat exchanger 152.

[0129] The pressure equalization process is a process to reduce the difference between the pressure of the refrigerant in the container from which heat has been recovered and the pressure of the refrigerant in the container from which cold energy has been recovered. The control unit 105 opens bypass valve R3-1 or bypass valve R3-2 at the start of the pressure equalization process and closes bypass valve R3-1 or bypass valve R3-2 at the end of the pressure equalization process.

[0130] When the refrigeration system 100 is in the first state, the first space 164a of the third container 123 is connected to the discharge side of the compressor 131, and the first space 164a of the first container 121 is connected to the suction side of the compressor 131. Therefore, in the first state, the pressure of the refrigerant in the third container 123 is higher than the pressure of the refrigerant in the first container 121. When the bypass valve R3-1 is opened during the equalization process of the second state following the first state, the first space 164a of the third container 123 (heat recovery container) and the first space 164a of the first container 121 (cold energy recovery container) become connected to each other. As a result, the pressure in the first space 164a of the third container 123 decreases, and the pressure in the first space 164a of the first container 121 increases. Therefore, the difference between the pressure in the third container 123 and the pressure in the first container 121 after opening the bypass valve R3-1 is smaller than the difference between the pressure in the third container 123 and the pressure in the first container 121 before opening the bypass valve R3-1. In the pressure equalization process of the second state, the refrigerant pressure in the third container 123 may ultimately become the same as the refrigerant pressure in the first container 121.

[0131] When the refrigeration system 100 is in the second state, the first space 164a of the fourth container 124 is connected to the discharge side of the compressor 131, and the first space 164a of the second container 122 is connected to the suction side of the compressor 131. Therefore, in the second state, the refrigerant pressure in the fourth container 124 is higher than the refrigerant pressure in the second container 122. When the bypass valve R3-2 is opened during the equalization process of the third state following the second state, the first space 164a of the fourth container 124 (heat recovery container) and the first space 164a of the second container 122 (cold energy recovery container) become connected to each other. As a result, the pressure in the first space 164a of the fourth container 124 decreases, and the pressure in the first space 164a of the second container 122 increases. Therefore, the difference between the pressure in the fourth container 124 and the pressure in the second container 122 after opening the bypass valve R3-2 is smaller than the difference between the pressure in the fourth container 124 and the pressure in the second container 122 before opening the bypass valve R3-2. In the third state equalization process, the refrigerant pressure in the fourth container 124 may ultimately become the same as the refrigerant pressure in the second container 122.

[0132] When the refrigeration system 100 is in the third state, the first space 164a of the first container 121 is connected to the discharge side of the compressor 131, and the first space 164a of the third container 123 is connected to the suction side of the compressor 131. Therefore, in the third state, the pressure of the refrigerant in the first container 121 is higher than the pressure of the refrigerant in the third container 123. When the bypass valve R3-1 is opened during the equalization process of the fourth state following the third state, the first space 164a of the first container 121 (heat recovery container) and the first space 164a of the third container 123 (cold energy recovery container) become connected to each other. As a result, the pressure in the first space 164a of the first container 121 decreases, and the pressure in the first space 164a of the third container 123 increases. Therefore, the difference between the pressure in the first container 121 and the pressure in the third container 123 after opening the bypass valve R3-1 is smaller than the difference between the pressure in the first container 121 and the pressure in the third container 123 before opening the bypass valve R3-1. In the fourth state equalization process, the refrigerant pressure in the first container 121 may ultimately become the same as the refrigerant pressure in the third container 123.

[0133] When the refrigeration system 100 is in the fourth state, the first space 164a of the second container 122 is connected to the discharge side of the compressor 131, and the first space 164a of the fourth container 124 is connected to the suction side of the compressor 131. Therefore, in the fourth state, the refrigerant pressure in the second container 122 is higher than the refrigerant pressure in the fourth container 124. When the bypass valve R3-2 is opened during the equalization step of the first state following the fourth state, the first space 164a of the second container 122 (heat recovery container) and the first space 164a of the fourth container 124 (cold recovery container) communicate with each other. As a result, the pressure in the first space 164a of the second container 122 decreases, and the pressure in the first space 164a of the fourth container 124 increases. Therefore, the difference between the pressure in the second container 122 and the pressure in the fourth container 124 after opening the bypass valve R3-2 is smaller than the difference between the pressure in the second container 122 and the pressure in the fourth container 124 before opening the bypass valve R3-2. In the pressure equalization process of the first state, the refrigerant pressure in the second container 122 may ultimately become the same as the refrigerant pressure in the fourth container 124.

[0134] (4) Features (4-1) While the refrigeration system 100 is performing the first operation, the heat transfer medium that has passed through the second heat exchanger 152 is heated by heat exchange with the heat recovery container, then heat is recovered in the heat recovery container, and it flows into the first heat exchanger 142. Therefore, immediately after the transition between the first to fourth states, the refrigeration system 100 can use the heat received by the heat transfer medium through heat exchange with the heat recovery container to raise the temperature of the heat transfer medium flowing into the heat recovery container. The lower the temperature of the heat transfer medium flowing into the heat recovery container immediately after the transition between the first to fourth states, the longer the time it takes for adsorption heat to be generated in the heat recovery container, and the longer the time required for the first heat exchanger 142 to be heated to a predetermined temperature. Therefore, the refrigeration system 100 can suppress a temporary decrease in the heat exchange capacity of the first heat exchanger 142 immediately after the transition between the first to fourth states.

[0135] While the refrigeration system 100 is performing the first operation, the heat transfer medium that has passed through the first heat exchanger 142 is cooled by heat exchange with the container where the cold energy has been recovered, then the cold energy is recovered in the container where the cold energy is being recovered, and it flows into the second heat exchanger 152. Therefore, immediately after the transition between the first to fourth states, the refrigeration system 100 can use the cold energy received by the heat transfer medium through heat exchange with the container where the cold energy has been recovered to lower the temperature of the heat transfer medium flowing into the container where the cold energy is being recovered. The higher the temperature of the heat transfer medium flowing into the container where the cold energy is being recovered immediately after the transition between the first to fourth states, the longer the time it takes for desorption heat to be generated in the container where the cold energy is being recovered, and the longer the time it takes for the second heat exchanger 152 to cool to a predetermined temperature. Therefore, the refrigeration system 100 can suppress a temporary decrease in the heat exchange capacity of the second heat exchanger 152 immediately after the transition between the first to fourth states.

[0136] As described above, by performing the first operation, the refrigeration system 100 can suppress a temporary decrease in the heat exchange capacity of the first heat exchanger 142 and the second heat exchanger 152, thereby increasing its capacity per unit time.

[0137] (4-2) During the pressure equalization process in the first and third states, the control unit 105 temporarily opens the bypass valve R3-2 to reduce the difference between the refrigerant pressure in the second container 122 and the refrigerant pressure in the fourth container 124.

[0138] During the pressure equalization process in the second and fourth states, the control unit 105 temporarily opens the bypass valve R3-1 to reduce the difference between the refrigerant pressure in the first container 121 and the refrigerant pressure in the third container 123.

[0139] In the pressure equalization process of the first state, the pressure in the first space 164a of the second container 122 decreases, and the pressure in the first space 164a of the fourth container 124 increases. Therefore, after transitioning to the second state, the time it takes for the pressure in the first space 164a of the second container 122 to decrease and reach the desorption pressure, and the time it takes for the pressure in the first space 164a of the fourth container 124 to increase and reach the adsorption pressure are shortened.

[0140] In the second state's pressure equalization process, the pressure in the first space 164a of the third container 123 decreases, while the pressure in the first space 164a of the first container 121 increases. Therefore, after transitioning to the third state, the time it takes for the pressure in the first space 164a of the third container 123 to decrease and reach the desorption pressure, and the time it takes for the pressure in the first space 164a of the first container 121 to increase and reach the adsorption pressure are shortened.

[0141] In the third state's pressure equalization process, the pressure in the first space 164a of the fourth container 124 decreases, while the pressure in the first space 164a of the second container 122 increases. As a result, after transitioning to the fourth state, the time it takes for the pressure in the first space 164a of the fourth container 124 to decrease and reach the desorption pressure, and the time it takes for the pressure in the first space 164a of the second container 122 to increase and reach the adsorption pressure are shortened.

[0142] In the fourth state's pressure equalization process, the pressure in the first space 164a of the first container 121 decreases, and the pressure in the first space 164a of the third container 123 increases. As a result, after transitioning to the first state, the time it takes for the pressure in the first space 164a of the first container 121 to decrease and reach the desorption pressure, and the time it takes for the pressure in the first space 164a of the third container 123 to increase and reach the adsorption pressure are shortened.

[0143] Until the pressure inside the first container 121, second container 122, third container 123, or fourth container 124 rises to reach the adsorption pressure, no heat is generated in the first container 121, second container 122, third container 123, or fourth container 124. Until the pressure inside the first container 121, second container 122, third container 123, or fourth container 124 falls to reach the desorption pressure, no cold is generated in the first container 121, second container 122, third container 123, or fourth container 124. By performing a pressure equalization process in the first to fourth states, the refrigeration device 100 can shorten the time it takes for the pressure inside the first container 121, second container 122, third container 123, and fourth container 124 to reach the adsorption pressure or desorption pressure.

[0144] Therefore, the refrigeration system 100 can increase its capacity per unit time compared to the case where the heat source side circuit 101 does not have the first bypass flow path 211, the second bypass flow path 212, the bypass valve R3-1, and the bypass valve R3-2.

[0145] (4-3) The control unit 105 of the refrigeration system 100 continuously drives the compressor 131 while the refrigeration system 100 is in the first to fourth states. Since the refrigeration system 100 does not need to stop the compressor 131 during operation, a decrease in the reliability of the compressor 131 can be suppressed.

[0146] (4-4) The control unit 105 of the refrigeration system 100 continuously drives the fluid pump 155 while the refrigeration system 100 is in the first to fourth states. Since the refrigeration system 100 does not need to stop the fluid pump 155 during operation, a decrease in the reliability of the fluid pump 155 can be suppressed.

[0147] —Second variation— Since the basic configuration and operation of the refrigeration system 200 of the second embodiment are the same as those of the refrigeration system 100 of the first embodiment, the differences between the refrigeration system 100 and the refrigeration system 200 will be explained in detail. The same reference numerals are used for elements common to both the first and second embodiments.

[0148] (1) Overall configuration of the refrigeration unit 200 The refrigeration system 200 of the second embodiment, as shown in Figure 15, comprises a heat source side circuit 101, a utilization side circuit 102, a first fan 143, and a second fan 153. The heat source side circuit 101 has a refrigerant flow path 111 through which the refrigerant flows. The utilization side circuit 102 has a heat medium flow path 112 through which the heat medium flows. In Figure 15, the refrigerant flow path 111 is drawn with a dotted line, and the heat medium flow path 112 is drawn with a solid line. The refrigeration system 200 is, for example, an air conditioning system. When the refrigeration system 200 is an air conditioning system, one of the first fan 143 and the second fan 153 is provided in the indoor unit, and the other is provided in the outdoor unit.

[0149] The refrigeration system 200 further comprises a control unit 105. As shown in Figure 16, the control unit 105 controls the operation of each element constituting the heat source side circuit 101 and the utilization side circuit 102.

[0150] (1-1) Heat source side circuit 101 The heat source circuit 101 constitutes a refrigeration cycle that functions as a heat pump utilizing the heat (warmth or coldness) generated when the refrigerant is adsorbed or desorbed from the adsorbent.

[0151] The heat source side circuit 101 includes a compressor 131, a first container 121, a second container 122, a third container 123, a fourth container 124, and a refrigerant flow path 111. The heat source side circuit 101 further includes refrigerant valves R1-1 to R2-4. The heat source side circuit 101 of the refrigeration system 200 has a configuration in which the first bypass flow path 211, the second bypass flow path 212, the bypass valve R3-1, and the bypass valve R3-2 are removed from the heat source side circuit 101 of the refrigeration system 100.

[0152] The control unit 105 controls the compressor 131 and the refrigerant valves R1-1 to R2-4. The control unit 105 controls the rotational speed of the compressor 131. The control unit 105 controls the timing for starting the compressor 131 and the timing for stopping the compressor 131. The control unit 105 controls the opening and closing of each of the refrigerant valves R1-1 to R2-4 to allow or block the flow of refrigerant in the refrigerant passage 111.

[0153] (1-2) User side circuit 102 The utilization-side circuit 102 functions as a heat transfer means for utilizing the heat generated in the heat source-side circuit 101 via a heat transfer medium. The heat transfer medium flowing through the heat transfer medium channel 112 transfers the heat of adsorption or desorption recovered in the first container 121, second container 122, third container 123, or fourth container 124 to a predetermined location.

[0154] The user-side circuit 102 includes a first container 121, a second container 122, a third container 123, a fourth container 124, a first heat exchanger 142, a second heat exchanger 152, and a heat transfer medium flow path 112. The user-side circuit 102 further includes a fluid pump 155 and heat transfer medium valves H1-2 to H6-4. The heat transfer medium valves H1-2 to H6-4 are arranged to switch the refrigeration system 200 between a first state, a second state, a third state, and a fourth state. The user-side circuit 102 of the refrigeration system 200 has the same configuration as the user-side circuit 102 of the refrigeration system 100.

[0155] When the refrigeration device 200 is in the first state, the heat transfer medium flow path 112 has a first circulation flow path C1 through which the heat transfer medium circulates, as shown in Figures 17 and 18. The first circulation flow path C1 in Figures 17 and 18 is the same as the first circulation flow path C1 in Figures 3 and 4.

[0156] When the refrigeration device 200 is in the second state, the heat transfer medium flow path 112 has a second circulation flow path C2 through which the heat transfer medium circulates, as shown in Figures 19 and 20. The second circulation flow path C2 in Figures 19 and 20 is the same as the second circulation flow path C2 in Figures 5 and 6.

[0157] When the refrigeration device 200 is in the third state, the heat transfer medium flow path 112 has a third circulation flow path C3 through which the heat transfer medium circulates, as shown in Figures 21 and 22. The third circulation flow path C3 in Figures 21 and 22 is the same as the third circulation flow path C3 in Figures 7 and 8.

[0158] When the refrigeration device 200 is in the fourth state, the heat transfer medium flow path 112 has a fourth circulation flow path C4 through which the heat transfer medium circulates, as shown in Figures 23 and 24. The fourth circulation flow path C4 in Figures 23 and 24 is the same as the fourth circulation flow path C4 in Figures 9 and 10.

[0159] The control unit 105 controls the first fan 143, the second fan 153, the fluid pump 155, and the heat transfer valves H1-2 to H6-4. The control unit 105 controls the capacity of the fluid pump 155. The control unit 105 controls the rotational speed of the first fan 143 and the second fan 153. The control unit 105 controls the heat transfer valves H1-2 to H6-4 to switch the refrigeration system 200 between the first state, the second state, the third state, and the fourth state.

[0160] (2) Operation of the refrigeration unit 200 The refrigeration unit 200, like the refrigeration unit 100, performs a first operation that repeatedly transitions through the first state, second state, third state, fourth state, and back to the first state. The first to fourth states of the refrigeration unit 200 correspond to the first to fourth states of the refrigeration unit 100, respectively.

[0161] While the refrigeration unit 200 is performing its first operation, the heat transfer medium flowing through the heat transfer medium channel 112 circulates by passing through the first heat exchanger 142, the container where the cold energy has been recovered, the container where cold energy is being recovered, the second heat exchanger 152, the container where the heat energy has been recovered, the container where heat energy is being recovered, and then back to the first heat exchanger 142.

[0162] (3) Control of the refrigeration unit 200 The control unit 105 controls the compressor 131, refrigerant valves R1-1 to R2-4, fluid pump 155, and heat transfer valves H1-2 to H6-4 so that when the first operation of the refrigeration system 200 is performed, the refrigeration system 200 repeatedly transitions through the first state, second state, third state, fourth state, and back to the first state.

[0163] When the first operation of the refrigeration system 200 is performed, the control unit 105 controls each controlled object so that it repeatedly transitions in the order of first state (steps S11-S12), second state (steps S13-S14), third state (steps S15-S16), fourth state (steps S17-S18), and first state (steps S11-S12), as shown in Figure 12.

[0164] The first to fourth states each consist of a heat recovery process and a pressure equalization process. Step S11 is the heat recovery process of the first state, as shown in Figure 17. Step S12 is the pressure equalization process of the first state, as shown in Figure 18. Step S13 is the heat recovery process of the second state, as shown in Figure 19. Step S14 is the pressure equalization process of the second state, as shown in Figure 20. Step S15 is the heat recovery process of the third state, as shown in Figure 21. Step S16 is the pressure equalization process of the third state, as shown in Figure 22. Step S17 is the heat recovery process of the fourth state, as shown in Figure 23. Step S18 is the pressure equalization process of the fourth state, as shown in Figure 24.

[0165] The pressure equalization process in the first state is the process immediately preceding the transition of the refrigeration unit 200 from the first state to the second state. In other words, the pressure equalization process in the first state refers to the state from a predetermined period before the transition from the first state to the second state until the transition occurs.

[0166] The pressure equalization process in the second state is the process immediately preceding the transition of the refrigeration unit 200 from the second state to the third state. In other words, the pressure equalization process in the second state refers to the state from a predetermined period before the transition from the second state to the third state until the transition occurs.

[0167] The pressure equalization process in the third state is the process immediately preceding the transition of the refrigeration unit 200 from the third state to the fourth state. In other words, the pressure equalization process in the third state refers to the state from a predetermined period before the transition from the third state to the fourth state until the transition occurs.

[0168] The fourth-state pressure equalization process is the process immediately preceding the transition of the refrigeration unit 200 from the fourth state to the first state. In other words, the fourth-state pressure equalization process refers to the state from a predetermined period before the transition from the fourth state to the first state until the transition occurs.

[0169] Figure 25 is a table showing the state of the compressor 131 and the refrigerant valves R1-1 to R2-4 during the heat recovery process and pressure equalization process for each of the first to fourth states. Figure 26 is a table showing the state of the fluid pump 155 and the heat transfer valves H1-2 to H6-4 during the first to fourth states. In Figure 26, the state of the fluid pump 155 and the heat transfer valves H1-2 to H6-4 is the same for both the heat recovery process and the pressure equalization process.

[0170] In Figures 25 and 26, the compressor 131 and the fluid pump 155 operate when "ON" and stop when "OFF". In Figure 25, the refrigerant valves R1-1 to R2-4 are open when "ON" and closed when "OFF". In Figure 26, the heat transfer fluid valves H1-2 to H6-4 are open when "ON" and closed when "OFF".

[0171] The control unit 105 performs the following control as shown in Figure 25.

[0172] The control unit 105 continuously drives the compressor 131 while the refrigeration unit 200 is performing the first operation. In other words, the control unit 105 does not stop the operation of the compressor 131 while the refrigeration unit 200 is in the first to fourth states.

[0173] The control unit 105 ensures that while the refrigeration system 200 is in the first state heat recovery process, refrigerant valves R1-1 and R2-3 are open, and refrigerant valves R1-2, R1-3, R1-4, R2-1, R2-2, and R2-4 are closed. The control unit 105 ensures that while the refrigeration system 200 is in the first state pressure equalization process, refrigerant valves R1-2, R1-4, R2-2, and R2-4 are open, and refrigerant valves R1-1, R1-3, R2-1, and R2-3 are closed. While the refrigeration system 200 is in the first state pressure equalization process, one of the pairs of refrigerant valves R1-2 and R1-4, and the other pair of refrigerant valves R2-2 and R2-4, may be closed.

[0174] The control unit 105 ensures that while the refrigeration system 200 is in the second state heat recovery process, refrigerant valves R1-2 and R2-4 are open, and refrigerant valves R1-1, R1-3, R1-4, R2-1, R2-2, and R2-3 are closed. The control unit 105 ensures that while the refrigeration system 200 is in the second state pressure equalization process, refrigerant valves R1-1, R1-3, R2-1, and R2-3 are open, and refrigerant valves R1-2, R1-4, R2-2, and R2-4 are closed. While the refrigeration system 200 is in the second state pressure equalization process, one of the pairs of refrigerant valves R1-1 and R1-3, and the other pair of refrigerant valves R2-1 and R2-3 may be closed.

[0175] The control unit 105 ensures that while the refrigeration system 200 is in the third state heat recovery process, refrigerant valves R1-3 and R2-1 are open, and refrigerant valves R1-1, R1-2, R1-4, R2-2, R2-3, and R2-4 are closed. The control unit 105 ensures that while the refrigeration system 200 is in the third state pressure equalization process, refrigerant valves R1-2, R1-4, R2-2, and R2-4 are open, and refrigerant valves R1-1, R1-3, R2-1, and R2-3 are closed. While the refrigeration system 200 is in the third state pressure equalization process, one of the pairs of refrigerant valves R1-2 and R1-4, and the other pair of refrigerant valves R2-2 and R2-4, may be closed.

[0176] The control unit 105 ensures that while the refrigeration system 200 is in the fourth state (heat recovery process), refrigerant valves R1-4 and R2-2 are open, and refrigerant valves R1-1, R1-2, R1-3, R2-1, R2-3, and R2-4 are closed. The control unit 105 ensures that while the refrigeration system 200 is in the fourth state (pressure equalization process), refrigerant valves R1-1, R1-3, R2-1, and R2-3 are open, and refrigerant valves R1-2, R1-4, R2-2, and R2-4 are closed. While the refrigeration system 200 is in the fourth state (pressure equalization process), one of the pairs of refrigerant valves R1-1 and R1-3, and the other pair of refrigerant valves R2-1 and R2-3, may be closed.

[0177] The control unit 105 performs the control shown in Figure 26. The control shown in Figure 26 is the same as the control of the refrigeration unit 100 shown in Figure 14.

[0178] Next, the heat recovery process and pressure equalization process for each of the first to fourth states will be described.

[0179] (3-1) Heat recovery process The heat recovery process of the refrigeration unit 200 is the same as the heat recovery process of the refrigeration unit 100.

[0180] While the refrigeration unit 200 is performing its first operation, the heat transfer medium that has passed through the second heat exchanger 152 is heated in the heat recovery container, then heated in the heat recovery container, and then flows into the first heat exchanger 142. Also, while the refrigeration unit 200 is performing its first operation, the heat transfer medium that has passed through the first heat exchanger 142 is cooled in the cold energy recovery container, then cooled in the cold energy recovery container, and then flows into the second heat exchanger 152.

[0181] (3-2) Pressure equalization process In the pressure equalization process, similar to the heat recovery process, the heat transfer medium that has passed through the second heat exchanger 152 is heated in the container where heat has been recovered and the container where heat is being recovered, and flows into the first heat exchanger 142. The heat transfer medium that has passed through the first heat exchanger 142 is cooled in the container where cold energy has been recovered and the container where cold energy is being recovered, and flows into the second heat exchanger 152.

[0182] The pressure equalization process is a process that reduces the difference between the pressure of the refrigerant in the container from which heat has been recovered and the pressure of the refrigerant in the container from which cold energy has been recovered.

[0183] When the refrigeration system 200 is in the first state, the first space 164a of the third container 123 is connected to the discharge side of the compressor 131, and the first space 164a of the first container 121 is connected to the suction side of the compressor 131. Therefore, in the first state, the pressure of the refrigerant in the third container 123 is higher than the pressure of the refrigerant in the first container 121. When the refrigerant valves R1-1, R1-3, R2-1, and R2-3 are opened during the equalization process of the second state following the first state, the first space 164a of the third container 123 (heat recovery container) and the first space 164a of the first container 121 (cold energy recovery container) are connected to each other. As a result, the pressure in the first space 164a of the third container 123 decreases, and the pressure in the first space 164a of the first container 121 increases. Therefore, the difference between the pressure in the third container 123 and the pressure in the first container 121 after opening refrigerant valves R1-1, R1-3, R2-1, and R2-3 is smaller than the difference between the pressure in the third container 123 and the pressure in the first container 121 before opening refrigerant valves R1-1, R1-3, R2-1, and R2-3. In the second state equalization process, the refrigerant pressure in the third container 123 may ultimately become the same as the refrigerant pressure in the first container 121.

[0184] When the refrigeration system 200 is in the second state, the first space 164a of the fourth container 124 is connected to the discharge side of the compressor 131, and the first space 164a of the second container 122 is connected to the suction side of the compressor 131. Therefore, in the second state, the pressure of the refrigerant in the fourth container 124 is higher than the pressure of the refrigerant in the second container 122. In the equalization process of the third state following the second state, when the refrigerant valves R1-2, R1-4, R2-2, and R2-4 are opened, the first space 164a of the fourth container 124 (heat recovery container) and the first space 164a of the second container 122 (cold energy recovery container) communicate with each other. As a result, the pressure in the first space 164a of the fourth container 124 decreases, and the pressure in the first space 164a of the second container 122 increases. Therefore, the difference between the pressure in the fourth container 124 and the pressure in the second container 122 after opening refrigerant valves R1-2, R1-4, R2-2, and R2-4 is smaller than the difference between the pressure in the fourth container 124 and the pressure in the second container 122 before opening refrigerant valves R1-2, R1-4, R2-2, and R2-4. In the third state equalization process, the refrigerant pressure in the fourth container 124 may ultimately become the same as the refrigerant pressure in the second container 122.

[0185] When the refrigeration system 200 is in the third state, the first space 164a of the first container 121 is connected to the discharge side of the compressor 131, and the first space 164a of the third container 123 is connected to the suction side of the compressor 131. Therefore, in the third state, the pressure of the refrigerant in the first container 121 is higher than the pressure of the refrigerant in the third container 123. When the refrigerant valves R1-1, R1-3, R2-1, and R2-3 are opened during the equalization process of the fourth state following the third state, the first space 164a of the first container 121 (heat recovery container) and the first space 164a of the third container 123 (cold energy recovery container) are connected to each other. As a result, the pressure in the first space 164a of the first container 121 decreases, and the pressure in the first space 164a of the third container 123 increases. Therefore, the difference between the pressure in the first container 121 and the pressure in the third container 123 after opening refrigerant valves R1-1, R1-3, R2-1, and R2-3 is smaller than the difference between the pressure in the first container 121 and the pressure in the third container 123 before opening refrigerant valves R1-1, R1-3, R2-1, and R2-3. In the fourth state equalization process, the refrigerant pressure in the first container 121 may ultimately become the same as the refrigerant pressure in the third container 123.

[0186] When the refrigeration system 200 is in the fourth state, the first space 164a of the second container 122 is connected to the discharge side of the compressor 131, and the first space 164a of the fourth container 124 is connected to the suction side of the compressor 131. Therefore, in the fourth state, the pressure of the refrigerant in the second container 122 is higher than the pressure of the refrigerant in the fourth container 124. When the refrigerant valves R1-2, R1-4, R2-2, and R2-4 are opened during the equalization process of the first state following the fourth state, the first space 164a of the second container 122 (heat recovery container) and the first space 164a of the fourth container 124 (cold recovery container) are connected to each other. As a result, the pressure in the first space 164a of the second container 122 decreases, and the pressure in the first space 164a of the fourth container 124 increases. Therefore, the difference between the pressure in the second container 122 and the pressure in the fourth container 124 after opening refrigerant valves R1-2, R1-4, R2-2, and R2-4 is smaller than the difference between the pressure in the second container 122 and the pressure in the fourth container 124 before opening refrigerant valves R1-2, R1-4, R2-2, and R2-4. In the pressure equalization process of the first state, the refrigerant pressure in the second container 122 may ultimately become the same as the refrigerant pressure in the fourth container 124.

[0187] (4) Features (4-1) Similar to the refrigeration system 100, the refrigeration system 200 can increase its capacity per unit time by performing a first operation, thereby suppressing a temporary decrease in the heat exchange capacity of the first heat exchanger 142 and the second heat exchanger 152.

[0188] (4-2) In the pressure equalization process for the first and third states, the control unit 105 temporarily opens refrigerant valves R1-2, R1-4, R2-2, and R2-4 to reduce the difference between the refrigerant pressure in the second container 122 and the refrigerant pressure in the fourth container 124.

[0189] In the pressure equalization process for the second and fourth states, the control unit 105 temporarily opens refrigerant valves R1-1, R1-3, R2-1, and R2-3 to reduce the difference between the refrigerant pressure in the first container 121 and the refrigerant pressure in the third container 123.

[0190] Therefore, the pressure equalization process of the refrigeration device 200 has the same effect as the pressure equalization process of the refrigeration device 100. By performing the pressure equalization process in the first to fourth states, the refrigeration device 200 can shorten the time it takes for the pressure inside the first container 121, the second container 122, the third container 123, and the fourth container 124 to reach the adsorption pressure or desorption pressure.

[0191] Therefore, the refrigeration system 200 can increase its capacity per unit time compared to the case where the pressure equalization process is not performed in the first to fourth states.

[0192] —Third variation— Since the basic configuration and operation of the refrigeration system 300 of the third embodiment are the same as those of the refrigeration system 100 of the first embodiment, the differences between the refrigeration system 100 and the refrigeration system 300 will be explained in detail. The same reference numerals are used for elements common to both the first and third embodiments.

[0193] (1) Overall configuration of the refrigeration unit 300 The refrigeration system 300 of the third embodiment, as shown in Figure 27, comprises a heat source side circuit 101, a utilization side circuit 102, a first fan 143, and a second fan 153. The heat source side circuit 101 has a refrigerant flow path 111 through which the refrigerant flows. The utilization side circuit 102 has a heat medium flow path 112 through which the heat medium flows. In Figure 27, the refrigerant flow path 111 is drawn with a dotted line, and the heat medium flow path 112 is drawn with a solid line. The refrigeration system 300 is, for example, an air conditioning system. When the refrigeration system 300 is an air conditioning system, one of the first fan 143 and the second fan 153 is provided in the indoor unit, and the other is provided in the outdoor unit.

[0194] The refrigeration system 300 further includes a control unit 105. As shown in Figure 28, the control unit 105 controls the operation of each element constituting the heat source side circuit 101 and the utilization side circuit 102.

[0195] (1-1) Heat source side circuit 101 The heat source circuit 101 constitutes a refrigeration cycle that functions as a heat pump utilizing the heat (warmth or coldness) generated when the refrigerant is adsorbed or desorbed from the adsorbent.

[0196] The heat source circuit 101 includes a compressor 131, a first container 121, a second container 122, a third container 123, a fourth container 124, and a refrigerant flow path 111. The heat source circuit 101 further includes a four-way switching valve 135, refrigerant valves R4-1, R4-2, R4-3, and R4-4, a first bypass flow path 211, a second bypass flow path 212, a bypass valve R3-1, and a bypass valve R3-2. The refrigerant flow path 111 connects the compressor 131, the first container 121, the second container 122, the third container 123, the fourth container 124, and the four-way switching valve 135. Refrigerant valves R4-1, R4-2, R4-3, and R4-4 are installed on the refrigerant flow path 111.

[0197] The four-way switching valve 135 switches the flow direction of the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant passage 111. The four-way switching valve 135 is configured to switch the refrigerant passage 111 between a first mode and a second mode. In the first mode, the discharge side of the compressor 131 is connected to the second container 122 or the third container 123, and the suction side of the compressor 131 is connected to the first container 121 or the fourth container 124. In the second mode, the discharge side of the compressor 131 is connected to the first container 121 or the fourth container 124, and the suction side of the compressor 131 is connected to the second container 122 or the third container 123.

[0198] Refrigerant valves R4-1, R4-2, R4-3, and R4-4 are solenoid valves. In the first mode, the refrigerant flow path 111 on the discharge side of the compressor 131 branches into a flow path where refrigerant valve R4-2 is located and a flow path where refrigerant valve R4-3 is located. In the first mode, the refrigerant flow path 111 on the suction side of the compressor 131 branches into a flow path where refrigerant valve R4-1 is located and a flow path where refrigerant valve R4-4 is located. In the second mode, the refrigerant flow path 111 on the discharge side of the compressor 131 branches into a flow path where refrigerant valve R4-1 is located and a flow path where refrigerant valve R4-4 is located. In the second mode, the refrigerant flow path 111 on the suction side of the compressor 131 branches into a flow path where refrigerant valve R4-2 is located and a flow path where refrigerant valve R4-3 is located. The flow path where refrigerant valve R4-1 is located is connected to the first container 121. The flow path in which refrigerant valve R4-2 is located is connected to the second container 122. The flow path in which refrigerant valve R4-3 is located is connected to the third container 123. The flow path in which refrigerant valve R4-4 is located is connected to the fourth container 124.

[0199] In the first mode, the discharge side of the compressor 131 and the second container 122 are connected via the refrigerant valve R4-2. In the first mode, the discharge side of the compressor 131 and the third container 123 are connected via the refrigerant valve R4-3. In the first mode, the suction side of the compressor 131 and the first container 121 are connected via the refrigerant valve R4-1. In the first mode, the suction side of the compressor 131 and the fourth container 124 are connected via the refrigerant valve R4-4.

[0200] In the second mode, the discharge side of the compressor 131 is connected to the first container 121 via the refrigerant valve R4-1. In the second mode, the discharge side of the compressor 131 is connected to the fourth container 124 via the refrigerant valve R4-4. In the second mode, the suction side of the compressor 131 is connected to the second container 122 via the refrigerant valve R4-2. In the second mode, the suction side of the compressor 131 is connected to the third container 123 via the refrigerant valve R4-3.

[0201] The control unit 105 controls the compressor 131, the four-way switching valve 135, the refrigerant valves R4-1, R4-2, R4-3, and R4-4, and the bypass valves R3-1 and R3-2. The control unit 105 controls the rotational speed of the compressor 131. The control unit 105 controls the timing for starting the compressor 131 and the timing for stopping the compressor 131. The control unit 105 controls the four-way switching valve 135 to switch between the first mode and the second mode of the refrigerant flow path 111. The control unit 105 controls the opening and closing of the refrigerant valves R4-1, R4-2, R4-3, and R4-4 to allow or block the flow of refrigerant in the refrigerant flow path 111. The control unit 105 controls the bypass valve R3-1 to open or close, thereby allowing or blocking the flow of refrigerant in the first bypass passage 211. The control unit 105 also controls the bypass valve R3-2 to open or close, thereby allowing or blocking the flow of refrigerant in the second bypass passage 212.

[0202] (1-2) User side circuit 102 The utilization-side circuit 102 functions as a heat transfer means for utilizing the heat generated in the heat source-side circuit 101 via a heat transfer medium. The heat transfer medium flowing through the heat transfer medium channel 112 transfers the heat of adsorption or desorption recovered in the first container 121, second container 122, third container 123, or fourth container 124 to a predetermined location.

[0203] The user-side circuit 102 includes a first container 121, a second container 122, a third container 123, a fourth container 124, a first heat exchanger 142, a second heat exchanger 152, and a heat transfer medium flow path 112. The user-side circuit 102 further includes a fluid pump 155 and heat transfer medium valves H1-2 to H6-4. The heat transfer medium valves H1-2 to H6-4 are arranged to allow the refrigeration system 300 to switch between a first state, a second state, a third state, and a fourth state. The user-side circuit 102 of the refrigeration system 300 has the same configuration as the user-side circuit 102 of the refrigeration system 100.

[0204] When the refrigeration device 300 is in the first state, the heat transfer medium flow path 112 has a first circulation flow path C1 through which the heat transfer medium circulates, as shown in Figures 29 and 30. The first circulation flow path C1 in Figures 29 and 30 is the same as the first circulation flow path C1 in Figures 3 and 4.

[0205] When the refrigeration device 300 is in the second state, the heat transfer medium flow path 112 has a second circulation flow path C2 through which the heat transfer medium circulates, as shown in Figures 31 and 32. The second circulation flow path C2 in Figures 31 and 32 is the same as the second circulation flow path C2 in Figures 5 and 6.

[0206] When the refrigeration device 300 is in the third state, the heat transfer medium flow path 112 has a third circulation flow path C3 through which the heat transfer medium circulates, as shown in Figures 33 and 34. The third circulation flow path C3 in Figures 33 and 34 is the same as the third circulation flow path C3 in Figures 7 and 8.

[0207] When the refrigeration device 300 is in the fourth state, the heat transfer medium flow path 112 has a fourth circulation flow path C4 through which the heat transfer medium circulates, as shown in Figures 35 and 36. The fourth circulation flow path C4 in Figures 35 and 36 is the same as the fourth circulation flow path C4 in Figures 9 and 10.

[0208] The control unit 105 controls the first fan 143, the second fan 153, the fluid pump 155, and the heat transfer valves H1-2 to H6-4. The control unit 105 controls the capacity of the fluid pump 155. The control unit 105 controls the rotational speed of the first fan 143 and the second fan 153. The control unit 105 controls the heat transfer valves H1-2 to H6-4 to switch the refrigeration system 300 between the first state, the second state, the third state, and the fourth state.

[0209] (2) Operation of the refrigeration unit 300 The refrigeration unit 300, like the refrigeration unit 100, performs a first operation that repeatedly transitions through the first state, second state, third state, fourth state, and back to the first state. The first to fourth states of the refrigeration unit 300 correspond to the first to fourth states of the refrigeration unit 100, respectively.

[0210] While the refrigeration unit 300 is performing its first operation, the heat transfer medium flowing through the heat transfer medium channel 112 circulates by passing through the first heat exchanger 142, the container where cold energy has been recovered, the container where cold energy is being recovered, the second heat exchanger 152, the container where heat energy has been recovered, the container where heat energy is being recovered, and the first heat exchanger 142 in that order.

[0211] (3) Control of the refrigeration unit 300 When the first operation of the refrigeration system 300 is performed, the control unit 105 controls the compressor 131, the four-way switching valve 135, the refrigerant valve R4-1, the refrigerant valve R4-2, the refrigerant valve R4-3, the refrigerant valve R4-4, the bypass valve R3-1, the bypass valve R3-2, the fluid pump 155, and the heat transfer fluid valves H1-2 to H6-4 so that the refrigeration system 300 repeatedly transitions through the first state, the second state, the third state, the fourth state, and back to the first state.

[0212] When the first operation of the refrigeration system 300 is performed, the control unit 105 controls each controlled object so that it repeatedly transitions in the order of first state (steps S11-S12), second state (steps S13-S14), third state (steps S15-S16), fourth state (steps S17-S18), and first state (steps S11-S12), as shown in Figure 12.

[0213] The first to fourth states each consist of a heat recovery process and a pressure equalization process. Step S11 is the heat recovery process of the first state, as shown in Figure 29. Step S12 is the pressure equalization process of the first state, as shown in Figure 30. Step S13 is the heat recovery process of the second state, as shown in Figure 31. Step S14 is the pressure equalization process of the second state, as shown in Figure 32. Step S15 is the heat recovery process of the third state, as shown in Figure 33. Step S16 is the pressure equalization process of the third state, as shown in Figure 34. Step S17 is the heat recovery process of the fourth state, as shown in Figure 35. Step S18 is the pressure equalization process of the fourth state, as shown in Figure 36.

[0214] The pressure equalization process in the first state is the process immediately preceding the transition of the refrigeration unit 300 from the first state to the second state. In other words, the pressure equalization process in the first state refers to the state from a predetermined period before the transition from the first state to the second state until the transition occurs.

[0215] The pressure equalization process in the second state is the process immediately preceding the transition of the refrigeration unit 300 from the second state to the third state. In other words, the pressure equalization process in the second state refers to the state from a predetermined period before the transition from the second state to the third state until the transition occurs.

[0216] The pressure equalization process in the third state is the process immediately preceding the transition of the refrigeration unit 300 from the third state to the fourth state. In other words, the pressure equalization process in the third state refers to the state from a predetermined period before the transition from the third state to the fourth state until the transition occurs.

[0217] The fourth-state pressure equalization process is the process immediately preceding the transition of the refrigeration unit 300 from the fourth state to the first state. In other words, the fourth-state pressure equalization process refers to the state from a predetermined period before the transition from the fourth state to the first state until the transition occurs.

[0218] Figure 37 is a table showing the state of the compressor 131, the four-way switching valve 135, the refrigerant valve R4-1, the refrigerant valve R4-2, the refrigerant valve R4-3, the refrigerant valve R4-4, the bypass valve R3-1, and the bypass valve R3-2 in each of the heat recovery and pressure equalization processes for the first to fourth states. Figure 38 is a table showing the state of the fluid pump 155 and the heat transfer valves H1-2 to H6-4 in the first to fourth states. In Figure 38, the state of the fluid pump 155 and the heat transfer valves H1-2 to H6-4 is the same in the heat recovery and pressure equalization processes.

[0219] In Figures 37 and 38, the compressor 131 and the fluid pump 155 operate when "ON" and stop when "OFF". In Figure 37, the four-way switching valve 135 has the refrigerant flow path 111 in first mode when "first mode" is activated, and the refrigerant flow path 111 in second mode when "second mode" is activated. In Figure 37, refrigerant valves R4-1, R4-2, R4-3, R4-4, bypass valves R3-1, and R3-2 are open when "ON" and closed when "OFF". In Figure 38, the heat transfer valves H1-2 to H6-4 are open when "ON" and closed when "OFF".

[0220] The control unit 105 performs the following control as shown in Figure 37.

[0221] The control unit 105 continuously drives the compressor 131 while the refrigeration unit 300 is performing the first operation. In other words, the control unit 105 does not stop the operation of the compressor 131 while the refrigeration unit 300 is in the first to fourth states.

[0222] The control unit 105 controls the four-way switching valve 135 so that the refrigerant flow path 111 enters the first mode when the refrigeration system 300 is in the first or fourth state, and enters the second mode when the refrigeration system 300 is in the second or third state.

[0223] The control unit 105 keeps refrigerant valves R4-1 and R4-3 open and refrigerant valves R4-2, R4-4 and bypass valve R3-1 closed while the refrigeration unit 300 is in the first or third state. The control unit 105 keeps bypass valve R3-2 closed while the refrigeration unit 300 is in the heat recovery process of the first or third state. The control unit 105 keeps bypass valve R3-2 open while the refrigeration unit 300 is in the pressure equalization process of the first or third state.

[0224] The control unit 105 keeps refrigerant valves R4-2 and R4-4 open and refrigerant valves R4-1, R4-3 and bypass valve R3-2 closed while the refrigeration unit 300 is in the second or fourth state. The control unit 105 keeps bypass valve R3-1 closed while the refrigeration unit 300 is in the heat recovery process of the second or fourth state. The control unit 105 keeps bypass valve R3-1 open while the refrigeration unit 300 is in the pressure equalization process of the second or fourth state.

[0225] The control unit 105 performs the control shown in Figure 38. The control shown in Figure 38 is the same as the control of the refrigeration unit 100 shown in Figure 14.

[0226] Next, the heat recovery process and pressure equalization process for each of the first to fourth states will be described.

[0227] (3-1) Heat recovery process The heat recovery process of the refrigeration unit 300 is the same as the heat recovery process of the refrigeration unit 100.

[0228] While the refrigeration unit 300 is performing its first operation, the heat transfer medium that has passed through the second heat exchanger 152 is heated in the heat recovery container, then heated in the heat recovery container, and then flows into the first heat exchanger 142. Also, while the refrigeration unit 300 is performing its first operation, the heat transfer medium that has passed through the first heat exchanger 142 is cooled in the cold energy recovery container, then cooled in the cold energy recovery container, and then flows into the second heat exchanger 152.

[0229] (3-2) Pressure equalization process The pressure equalization process of the refrigeration unit 300 is the same as the pressure equalization process of the refrigeration unit 100.

[0230] In the pressure equalization process, similar to the heat recovery process, the heat transfer medium that has passed through the second heat exchanger 152 is heated in the container where heat has been recovered and the container where heat is being recovered, and flows into the first heat exchanger 142. The heat transfer medium that has passed through the first heat exchanger 142 is cooled in the container where cold energy has been recovered and the container where cold energy is being recovered, and flows into the second heat exchanger 152.

[0231] (4) Features (4-1) Similar to the refrigeration unit 100, the refrigeration unit 300 can increase its capacity per unit time by performing a first operation, thereby suppressing a temporary decrease in the heat exchange capacity of the first heat exchanger 142 and the second heat exchanger 152.

[0232] (4-2) During the pressure equalization process in the first and third states, the control unit 105 temporarily opens the bypass valve R3-2 to reduce the difference between the refrigerant pressure in the second container 122 and the refrigerant pressure in the fourth container 124.

[0233] During the pressure equalization process in the second and fourth states, the control unit 105 temporarily opens the bypass valve R3-1 to reduce the difference between the refrigerant pressure in the first container 121 and the refrigerant pressure in the third container 123.

[0234] Therefore, the pressure equalization process of the refrigeration device 300 has the same effect as the pressure equalization process of the refrigeration device 100. By performing the pressure equalization process in the first to fourth states, the refrigeration device 300 can shorten the time it takes for the pressure inside the first container 121, the second container 122, the third container 123, and the fourth container 124 to reach the adsorption pressure or desorption pressure.

[0235] Therefore, the refrigeration system 300 can increase its capacity per unit time compared to the case where the pressure equalization process is not performed in the first to fourth states.

[0236] —Revised Version— (1) Variation A In the first and third embodiments, the first bypass channel 211 directly connects the first space 164a of the first container 121 and the first space 164a of the third container 123.

[0237] However, the position of the first bypass passage 211 is not limited as long as the first bypass passage 211 connects the first container 121 and the third container 123 without passing through the compressor 131. The first bypass passage 211 does not have to directly connect the first space 164a of the first container 121 and the first space 164a of the third container 123. For example, the first bypass passage 211 may connect the passage between the first container 121 and the refrigerant valve R1-1 and the passage between the third container 123 and the refrigerant valve R1-3 in the refrigerant passage 111. Alternatively, the first bypass passage 211 may connect the passage between the first container 121 and the refrigerant valve R2-1 and the passage between the third container 123 and the refrigerant valve R2-3 in the refrigerant passage 111. In this case, the casings 163 of the first container 121 and the third container 123 do not have the second opening 163b.

[0238] In the first and third embodiments, the second bypass channel 212 directly connects the first space 164a of the second container 122 and the first space 164a of the fourth container 124.

[0239] However, the position of the second bypass passage 212 is not limited as long as the second bypass passage 212 connects the second container 122 and the fourth container 124 without passing through the compressor 131. The second bypass passage 212 does not have to directly connect the first space 164a of the second container 122 and the first space 164a of the fourth container 124. For example, the second bypass passage 212 may connect the passage between the second container 122 and the refrigerant valve R1-2 and the passage between the fourth container 124 and the refrigerant valve R1-4 in the refrigerant passage 111. Alternatively, the second bypass passage 212 may connect the passage between the second container 122 and the refrigerant valve R2-2 and the passage between the fourth container 124 and the refrigerant valve R2-4 in the refrigerant passage 111. In this case, the casings 163 of the second container 122 and the fourth container 124 do not have the second opening 163b.

[0240] (2) Modification B In the first to third embodiments, the fluid pump 155 is provided in the flow path where the second container 122 is located. However, the fluid pump 155 may also be provided in the flow path where the first container 121, the third container 123, or the fourth container 124 is located.

[0241] In the first to third embodiments, the suction side of the fluid pump 155 is connected to the second container 122. However, the discharge side of the fluid pump 155 may also be connected to the second container 122.

[0242] When the fluid pump 155 is installed in a flow path where the first container 121, the third container 123, or the fourth container 124 is located, the suction side or discharge side of the fluid pump 155 is connected to the first container 121, the third container 123, or the fourth container 124.

[0243] (3) Variation C In the first to third embodiments, the adsorbent is a metal-organic structure. However, materials other than metal-organic structures may be used as the adsorbent. Examples of materials other than metal-organic structures include activated carbon, zeolite-based materials, silica-based materials, and alumina-based materials.

[0244] While embodiments of this disclosure have been described above, it should be understood that various modifications to the form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure as described in the claims. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0245] 100: Refrigeration equipment 101: Heat source side circuit 102:Using circuit 105: Control Unit 111: Refrigerant flow path 112: Heat transfer fluid channel 121: 1st container 122:Second container 123:Third container 124: 4th container 131: Compressor 135: Four-way switching valve 142: 1st heat exchanger 152:Second heat exchanger 155: Fluid pump (discharge section) 181: Adsorbent 211: First bypass channel (first channel) 212: Second bypass channel (second channel) R3-1: Bypass valve (first valve) R3-2: Bypass valve (second valve) [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0246] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2023 / 0417459

Claims

1. A heat source side circuit (101) having a compressor (131) and a refrigerant flow path (111) through which the refrigerant flows, A user-side circuit (102) having a first heat exchanger (142), a second heat exchanger (152), and a heat transfer medium flow path (112) through which the heat transfer medium flows, A first container (121), a second container (122), a third container (123), and a fourth container (124) are provided, each having an adsorbent (181) that adsorbs and desorbs the refrigerant in response to changes in the pressure of the refrigerant, and the heat generated when the adsorbent adsorbs the refrigerant and the cold generated when the adsorbent desorbs the refrigerant are recovered and connected to the refrigerant flow path and the heat transfer medium flow path. Control unit (105) and Equipped with, In the aforementioned user-side circuit, The first container is connected to the second container and the fourth container, The second container is connected to the third container, The third container is connected to the fourth container, In the heat transfer medium flow path, the heat transfer medium circulates between the first container, the second container, the third container, and the fourth container. Refrigeration device (100).

2. The control unit performs a first operation in which it sequentially switches the refrigeration system through a first state, a second state, a third state, a fourth state, and the first state in that order. In the first state, the suction side of the compressor is connected to the first container, and the discharge side of the compressor is connected to the third container. In the second state, the suction side of the compressor is connected to the second container, and the discharge side of the compressor is connected to the fourth container. In the third state, the suction side of the compressor is connected to the third container, and the discharge side of the compressor is connected to the first container. In the fourth state, the suction side of the compressor is connected to the fourth container, and the discharge side of the compressor is connected to the second container. The refrigeration apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned heat source side circuit is A first flow path (211) that connects the first container and the third container without passing through the compressor, A second flow path (212) that connects the second container and the fourth container without passing through the compressor, A first valve (R3-1) is provided in the first flow path, A second valve (R3-2) is provided in the second flow path, It further possesses, The refrigeration apparatus according to claim 2.

4. The control unit, During a portion of the period in which the refrigeration device is in the first state or the third state, the second valve is opened. During a portion of the period in which the refrigeration device is in the second state or the fourth state, the first valve is opened. The refrigeration apparatus according to claim 3.

5. The heat source side circuit further includes a four-way switching valve (135) configured to switch the flow of the refrigerant in the refrigerant flow path. A refrigeration apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 4.

6. In the first state, the heat transfer medium circulates in the following order: the first heat exchanger, the fourth container, the first container, the second heat exchanger, the second container, the third container, and the first heat exchanger. A refrigeration apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 4.

7. The control unit drives the compressor continuously during the execution of the first operation. A refrigeration apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 4.

8. The user-side circuit further includes a dispensing unit (155) that sends the heat transfer medium to the first container, the second container, the third container, and the fourth container. The control unit drives the discharge unit continuously during the execution of the first operation. A refrigeration apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 4.

9. The adsorbent includes a metal-organic structure containing metal ions and an organic ligand. A refrigeration apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

10. The refrigerant comprises at least one of carbon dioxide, hydrocarbons, ammonia, water, HFCs, and HFOs. A refrigeration apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

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