Refrigeration equipment

Abstract

To improve the efficiency of heat exchange. [Solution] The refrigeration device (100) comprises first and second containers (120, 130). The first container (120) has a first casing (121), first and second filters (122, 123), an adsorbent (124), and a first heat recovery member (125). The first and second filters are arranged inside the first casing. The adsorbent is arranged in a first space (S1) partitioned by the first and second filters. The first heat recovery member is arranged in the first space. The second container has a second casing (131), third and fourth filters (132, 133), an adsorbent (124), and a second heat recovery member (135). The third and fourth filters are arranged inside the second casing. The adsorbent is arranged in a second space (S2) partitioned by the third and fourth filters. The second heat recovery member is arranged in the second space. Filters 1 through 4 allow the refrigerant to pass through but prevent the adsorbent from passing through.

Description

Technical Field

[0003] , , ,

[0004]

[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 adsorbers 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 adsorber and desorbed in the other adsorber, and a mode in which the refrigerant is desorbed in the one adsorber and adsorbed in the other adsorber 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] In the refrigeration device disclosed in FIG. 6 of the above Patent Document 1, the adsorbent is fixed inside each adsorber. A binder is used to fix the adsorbent to the adsorber. However, the binder reduces the efficiency of heat exchange between the refrigerant passing through the adsorbent and the heat medium.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] The refrigeration system of the first aspect comprises a refrigerant flow path, a compressor, a first vessel, a second vessel, and a switching mechanism. The refrigerant flows through the refrigerant flow path. The compressor compresses the refrigerant. The first and second vessels have a powdery adsorbent and allow heat exchange between the refrigerant and a heat transfer medium. The adsorbent adsorbs and desorbs the refrigerant in accordance with changes in the refrigerant pressure. The switching mechanism can switch the refrigerant flow path between a first state and a second state. The first state is a high-pressure state in the first vessel and a low-pressure state in the second vessel. The second state is a low-pressure state in the first vessel and a high-pressure state in the second vessel. The first vessel comprises a first casing, a first filter, a second filter, the adsorbent, and a first heat recovery member. The refrigerant passes through the first casing. The first filter is located inside the first casing. The second filter is located inside the first casing. The adsorbent is placed in a first space within the first casing. The first space is partitioned by a first filter and a second filter. A first heat recovery member is placed in the first space and recovers the heat generated when the adsorbent adsorbs or desorbs the refrigerant. The second container has a second casing, a third filter, a fourth filter, the adsorbent, and a second heat recovery member. The refrigerant passes through the second casing. The third filter is placed inside the second casing. The fourth filter is placed inside the second casing. The adsorbent is placed in a second space within the second casing. The second space is partitioned by a third filter and a fourth filter. A second heat recovery member is placed in the second space and recovers the heat generated when the adsorbent adsorbs or desorbs the refrigerant. The first filter, second filter, third filter, and fourth filter allow the refrigerant to pass through but prevent the adsorbent from passing through.

[0005] According to the refrigeration apparatus of the first aspect, as the refrigerant passes through the first space partitioned by the first filter and the second filter, and the second space partitioned by the third filter and the fourth filter, in the first and second containers, the adsorbent generates heat through the adsorption or desorption (detachment) of the refrigerant. As the refrigerant passes through, this powdery adsorbent can be moved to the first and second heat recovery members. Therefore, in the refrigeration apparatus of the first aspect, binders for supporting the adsorbent on the first and second heat recovery members can be omitted in the first and second containers. Consequently, the heat generated by the adsorption or desorption of the refrigerant in the adsorbent can be efficiently transferred to the first and second heat recovery members, thereby improving the efficiency of heat exchange.

[0006] The refrigeration apparatus of the second aspect is the refrigeration apparatus of the first aspect, wherein the first casing has a first connection part, a cylindrical part, and a second connection part. The first connection part is into which the refrigerant flows. The cylindrical part communicates with the first connection part and houses an adsorbent and a first heat recovery member. The second connection part communicates with the cylindrical part and through which the refrigerant flows out. The refrigerant passes through the first casing in the order of a first filter and a second filter.

[0007] In the refrigeration apparatus of the second perspective, in the first container, the refrigerant flows from the first connection to the cylindrical part and out from the second connection. In this process, as the refrigerant passes through the first and second filters in that order, the powdered adsorbent placed between the first and second filters can be easily moved. Therefore, the transfer of heat generated by the adsorbent to the first heat recovery unit can be promoted, making it easy to realize a first container that improves the efficiency of heat exchange.

[0008] The refrigeration apparatus in the third view is the same as the refrigeration apparatus in the second view, wherein the first filter is located vertically below the second filter.

[0009] In the third type of refrigeration system, the refrigerant moves vertically upward from the first filter to the second filter in the first container. Therefore, the adsorbent moves both with the movement of the refrigerant and with gravity. As a result, the adsorbent can be moved continuously, which further improves the efficiency of heat exchange.

[0010] The refrigeration apparatus of the fourth aspect is a refrigeration apparatus of the second or third aspect, wherein the first connection is located vertically below the second connection.

[0011] In the refrigeration system of the fourth perspective, the refrigerant moves vertically upward from the first connection point to the second connection point in the first container. Therefore, the adsorbent can move both with the movement of the refrigerant and with gravity. Consequently, the adsorbent can be moved continuously, which further improves the efficiency of heat exchange.

[0012] The refrigeration apparatus of the fifth aspect is a refrigeration apparatus of any of the second or fourth aspects, and the first filter is located at the first connection part.

[0013] In the fifth aspect of the refrigeration apparatus, since the first filter is placed at the first connection point in the first container, it is possible to increase the distance between the first filter and the second filter.

[0014] The refrigeration system of the sixth perspective is a refrigeration system of any of the first to fifth perspectives, further comprising a control unit. The control unit controls the compressor and the switching mechanism. The control unit continues the operation of the compressor when the refrigerant flow path is switched.

[0015] In the sixth-perspective refrigeration system, the compressor can continue operating during the transition between the first and second states, thus reducing the number of times the compressor starts and stops. Therefore, the reliability of the compressor can be improved.

[0016] The refrigeration apparatus of the seventh aspect is a refrigeration apparatus of any of the first to sixth aspects, wherein the refrigerant flow path includes a first flow path and a second flow path. The first flow path connects the outlet of the first container to the inlet of the second container. The second flow path connects the outlet of the second container to the inlet of the first container.

[0017] In the refrigeration apparatus of the seventh aspect, the refrigerant can be flowed from the first container to the second container through the first flow path, and the refrigerant can be flowed from the second container to the first container through the second flow path.

[0018] The refrigeration apparatus of the eighth aspect is the refrigeration apparatus of the seventh aspect, further comprising a first valve and a second valve. The first valve is provided in the first flow path. The second valve is provided in the second flow path.

[0019] In the refrigeration system of the eighth perspective, by opening the first valve and closing the second valve, refrigerant can flow from the first container to the second container without flowing from the second container to the first container. By closing the first valve and opening the second valve, refrigerant can flow from the second container to the first container without flowing from the first container to the second container.

[0020] A refrigeration system according to the ninth aspect is a refrigeration system according to the seventh or eighth aspect, wherein the refrigerant flow path further includes a third flow path and a fourth flow path. The third flow path branches off from the first flow path and is connected to the suction side of the compressor. The fourth flow path branches off from the second flow path and is connected to the suction side of the compressor. The refrigeration system further includes a third valve and a fourth valve. The third valve is provided in the third flow path. The fourth valve is provided in the fourth flow path.

[0021] In the refrigeration system of the ninth perspective, by opening the third valve, the refrigerant that has leaked out of the first container can be directed to the compressor. By opening the fourth valve, the refrigerant that has leaked out of the second container can be directed to the compressor.

[0022] The refrigeration device according to the 10th aspect is the refrigeration device according to the 9th aspect related to the 8th aspect, in the first state, the first valve and the fourth valve are in the open state, and in the second state, the second valve and the third valve are in the open state.

[0023] In the refrigeration device according to the 10th aspect, in the first state, since the first valve is in the open state, the refrigerant flows from the first container on the high-pressure side to the second container on the low-pressure side, and since the fourth valve is in the open state, the refrigerant flows from the second container to the compressor. In the second state, since the second valve is in the open state, the refrigerant flows from the second container on the high-pressure side to the first container on the low-pressure side, and since the third valve is in the open state, the refrigerant flows from the first container to the compressor.

[0024] The refrigeration device according to the 11th aspect is the refrigeration device according to any one of the 1st aspect to the 10th aspect, and the adsorbent includes a metal-organic framework containing metal ions and organic ligands.

[0025] Like the refrigeration device according to the 11th aspect, the metal-organic framework is suitably used as an adsorbent for adsorbing and desorbing the refrigerant.

[0026] The refrigeration device according to the 12th aspect is the refrigeration device according to any one of the 1st aspect to the 11th aspect, and includes at least one of carbon dioxide, hydrocarbon, ammonia, water, hydrofluorocarbon (HFC), and hydrofluoroolefin (HFO).

[0027] Like the refrigeration device according to the 12th aspect, a refrigerant containing at least one of carbon dioxide, hydrocarbon, ammonia, water, HFC, and HFO is suitably used as a refrigerant for an adsorption refrigeration device.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0028] [Figure 1] It is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration device. [Figure 2] It is a block diagram of a control unit. [Figure 3] (A) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the first container and the second container, and (B) is a partially broken view of the first container and the second container. [Figure 4]These are schematic diagrams of the first and third states of the refrigeration system. [Figure 5] These are schematic diagrams of the second and fourth states of the refrigeration system. [Figure 6] This is a schematic diagram of the refrigeration apparatus in the first modified example. [Figure 7] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the first and second containers of Modification 1, corresponding to Figure 3(A). [Figure 8] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the first and second containers of modified example 2, corresponding to Figure 3(A). [Figure 9] This is a schematic diagram of the refrigeration apparatus in the third modified example. [Figure 10] This is a schematic diagram of the first and third states of the refrigeration apparatus in modified example 3. [Figure 11] This is a schematic diagram of the second and fourth states of the refrigeration apparatus in modified example 3. [Figure 12] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the first and second containers of Modification 5, corresponding to Figure 3(A). [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0029] (1) Overall configuration of the refrigeration system A refrigeration system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises an adsorption refrigeration cycle that functions as a heat pump utilizing the heat generated when an adsorbent adsorbs a refrigerant and when an adsorbent desorbs a refrigerant. The refrigeration system is, for example, an air conditioning system.

[0030] A non-circulating refrigeration system comprises a pair of containers that have both functions as an adsorption section where an adsorbent material adsorbs refrigerant, and a desorption section where the adsorbent material desorbs refrigerant. The pair of containers, shown in Figure 1, consist of a first container 120 and a second container 130, both containing an adsorbent material. The adsorbent material is a powder of an adsorbent material. While one of the first container 120 and the second container 130 functions as the adsorption section, the other functions as the desorption section.

[0031] As shown in Figure 1, the refrigeration system 100 of this embodiment comprises a heat source side circuit 101 and a utilization side circuit 102. The heat source side circuit 101 has a refrigerant flow path 103 through which the refrigerant flows. The refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path 103 includes, for example, at least one of carbon dioxide, hydrocarbons, ammonia, water, HFCs, and HFOs. Hydrocarbons are selected from the group consisting of, for example, propane, butane, and isobutane. HFCs are selected from the group consisting of, for example, R32, R125, R134a, R143a, and R245fa. HFOs are selected from the group consisting of R1234yf, R1234ze, R1233zd, R1123, and R1132(E).

[0032] The user-side circuit 102 has a heat transfer medium channel 104 through which a heat transfer medium flows. The heat transfer medium flowing through the heat transfer medium channel 104 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.

[0033] As shown in Figure 2, the refrigeration system 100 further comprises a control unit 105. The control unit 105 controls the operation of each element constituting the refrigeration system 100.

[0034] (1-1) Heat source side circuit 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.

[0035] The heat source side circuit 101 includes a compressor 111, a first container 120, a second container 130, a switching mechanism 112, and a refrigerant flow path 103. The heat source side circuit 101 further includes a first valve 113, a second valve 114, a third valve 115, and a fourth valve 116.

[0036] The compressor 111 compresses the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant passage 103. The compressor 111 is, for example, a rotary compressor. The compressor 111 draws in low-pressure refrigerant from the refrigerant passage 103, compresses it, and discharges it back into the refrigerant passage 103 as high-pressure refrigerant. Low-pressure refrigerant is the refrigerant in the refrigerant passage 103 before it is compressed by the compressor 111. High-pressure refrigerant is the refrigerant in the refrigerant passage 103 after it has been compressed by the compressor 111. During operation of the compressor 111, lubricating oil sealed in the refrigerant passage 103 is supplied to the sliding parts of the compressor 111. A portion of the lubricating oil is stored at the bottom of the compressor 111's casing.

[0037] The first container 120 and the second container 130 each have an adsorbent that adsorbs and desorbs refrigerant in response to changes in the refrigerant pressure. In the first container 120 and the second container 130, the heat of adsorption or the heat of desorption is recovered in the heat medium flowing through the heat medium channel 104. The heat of adsorption is the thermal heat generated when the adsorbent adsorbs the refrigerant. The heat of desorption is the cold heat generated when the adsorbent desorbs the refrigerant. The first container 120 and the second container 130 are connected to the switching mechanism 112 in the refrigerant channel 103. Details of the first container 120 and the second container 130 will be described later.

[0038] The adsorbent is in powder form. The first container 120 and the second container 130 do not have a binder for supporting the adsorbent on the first heat recovery member 125 and the second heat recovery member 135 (see Figure 3), which will be described later.

[0039] The switching mechanism 112 switches the flow direction of the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant passage 103. The switching mechanism 112 is, for example, a three-way switching valve. The switching mechanism 112 is configured to switch the refrigerant passage 103 between a first state with a flow direction shown by the solid line in Figure 1 (see Figure 4) and a second state with a flow direction shown by the dashed line in Figure 1 (see Figure 5). In the first state, the discharge side of the compressor 111 is connected to the first container 120. In the second state, the discharge side of the compressor 111 is connected to the second container 130.

[0040] The first valve 113, the second valve 114, the third valve 115, and the fourth valve 116 are attached to the piping of the refrigerant flow path 103. The first valve 113, the second valve 114, the third valve 115, and the fourth valve 116 change the direction of the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path 103. Details of the first valve 113, the second valve 114, the third valve 115, and the fourth valve 116 will be described later.

[0041] The refrigerant flow path 103 connects the compressor 111, the first container 120, the second container 130, the switching mechanism 112, the first valve 113, the second valve 114, the third valve 115, and the fourth valve 116. Specifically, as shown in Figure 4, in the third state, the refrigerant flow path 103 connects the compressor 111, the switching mechanism 112, the first container 120, the first valve 113, the second container 130, and the fourth valve 116. As shown in Figure 5, in the fourth state, the compressor 111, the switching mechanism 112, the second valve 114, the first container 120, and the third valve 115.

[0042] (1-2) User side circuit 102 As shown in Figure 1, the user-side circuit 102 functions as a heat transfer means for utilizing the heat from the heat source-side circuit 101 via a heat transfer medium. The heat transfer medium flowing through the heat transfer medium channel 104 transfers the heat of adsorption or desorption recovered in the first container 120 or the second container 130 to a predetermined location.

[0043] The user-side circuit 102 includes a first pump 141, a first heat exchanger 142, a first fan 143, a first container 120, a second pump 151, a second heat exchanger 152, a second fan 153, a second container 130, and flow path changing sections 156 to 159. The heat transfer medium flow path 104 connects the first pump 141, the first heat exchanger 142, the first container 120, the second pump 151, the second heat exchanger 152, the second container 130, and the flow path changing sections 156 to 159.

[0044] The first pump 141 sends the heat transfer medium to the first heat exchanger 142. The first heat exchanger 142 performs heat exchange between the heat transfer medium and air. The first fan 143 generates an airflow that passes through the first heat exchanger 142 so that heat exchange can take place in the first heat exchanger 142.

[0045] The second pump 151 sends the heat transfer medium to the second heat exchanger 152. The second heat exchanger 152 performs heat exchange between the heat transfer medium and air. The second fan 153 generates an airflow that passes through the second heat exchanger 152 so that heat exchange can take place in the second heat exchanger 152.

[0046] The flow path changing units 156-159 change the flow path of the heat transfer medium by switching the connection state of the heat transfer medium flow path 104. The flow path changing units 156-159 are, for example, three-way switching valves. The flow path changing units 156-159 are configured to switch the heat transfer medium flow path 104 between a third connection state shown by the solid line in Figure 1 (see Figure 4) and a fourth connection state shown by the dashed line in Figure 1 (see Figure 5).

[0047] The heat transfer medium flow path 104 has two independent flow paths, a first circulation flow path 104a and a second circulation flow path 104b, in both the third and fourth states. The heat transfer medium circulates through the first circulation flow path 104a and the second circulation flow path 104b, respectively.

[0048] Specifically, as shown in Figure 4, in the third state, the first circulation channel 104a connects the first pump 141, the first heat exchanger 142, the channel changing section 156, the first container 120 (specifically the first heat recovery member 125), and the channel changing section 157. In the third state, the second circulation channel 104b connects the second pump 151, the second heat exchanger 152, the channel changing section 158, the second container 130 (specifically the second heat recovery member 135), and the channel changing section 159.

[0049] As shown in Figure 5, in the fourth state, the first circulation channel 104a connects the first pump 141, the first heat exchanger 142, the channel changing section 156, the second container 130 (specifically the second heat recovery member 135), and the channel changing section 157. In the fourth state, the second circulation channel 104b connects the second pump 151, the second heat exchanger 152, the channel changing section 158, the first container 120 (specifically the first heat recovery member 125), and the channel changing section 159.

[0050] The heat transfer medium flowing through the first circulation channel 104a and the heat transfer medium flowing through the second circulation channel 104b may be different, but in this embodiment they are the same.

[0051] (1-3) First container and second container Here, with reference to Figure 3, the configurations of the first container 120 and the second container 130 will be explained. In the following explanation, expressions indicating directions such as "up" and "down" are used as appropriate, but these represent the directions in the normal usage state and are not limited to those directions.

[0052] (1-3-1) First container As shown in Figures 3(A) and 3(B), the first container 120 includes a first casing 121, a first filter 122, a second filter 123, an adsorbent 124, and a first heat recovery member 125.

[0053] The refrigerant passes through the first casing 121. The interior of the first casing 121 constitutes part of the refrigerant flow path 103. Here, the first casing 121 is installed so that its longitudinal direction is parallel to the vertical direction. The first casing 121 houses the first filter 122, the second filter 123, the adsorbent 124, and the first heat recovery member 125.

[0054] The first casing 121 of this embodiment has a first connecting portion 121a, a cylindrical portion 121b, and a second connecting portion 121c.

[0055] The first connection part 121a is through which the refrigerant flows. The first connection part 121a has a cylindrical shape. Here, the first connection part 121a is the inlet of the first container 120.

[0056] The cylindrical portion 121b communicates with the first connecting portion 121a. The cylindrical portion 121b has a cylindrical shape and is larger than the inner diameter of the first connecting portion 121a. The cylindrical portion 121b houses the adsorbent 124 and the first heat recovery member 125.

[0057] The second connection portion 121c communicates with the cylindrical portion 121b. The second connection portion 121c has a cylindrical shape and its inner diameter is smaller than that of the cylindrical portion 121b. The inner diameter of the second connection portion 121c may be different from that of the first connection portion 121a, but in Figure 3 they are the same. Refrigerant flows out of the second connection portion 121c. Here, the second connection portion 121c is the outlet of the first container 120.

[0058] The first connecting portion 121a and the second connecting portion 121c are connected to the upper and lower central parts of the cylindrical portion 121b. In Figure 3, in a side view, the first connecting portion 121a and the second connecting portion 121c are located in a straight line.

[0059] The first connecting portion 121a is located vertically below the second connecting portion 121c. Here, the first connecting portion 121a, the cylindrical portion 121b, and the second connecting portion 121c are located in order from vertically downward.

[0060] The first filter 122 and the second filter 123 are arranged within the first casing 121. Here, the first filter 122 and the second filter 123 are arranged within the cylindrical portion 121b. The first filter 122 and the second filter 123 are provided in contact with the inner surface of the first casing 121. The first filter 122 is located vertically below the second filter 123. Here, the first filter 122 is located at the bottom of the cylindrical portion 121b, and the second filter 123 is located at the top of the cylindrical portion 121b.

[0061] The first filter 122 and the second filter 123 primarily allow the refrigerant to pass through but prevent the adsorbent 124 from passing through. Here, the first filter 122 and the second filter 123 have multiple pores (mesh) smaller than those of the adsorbent 124. The size of the pores in the first filter 122 may differ from the size of the pores in the second filter 123, but in this case they are the same.

[0062] The first filter 122 and the second filter 123 are made of, for example, resin. This helps to suppress the transfer of heat to the first filter 122 and the second filter 123. The first filter 122 and the second filter 123 may also be made of metal.

[0063] Within the first casing 121, the first space S1 is partitioned by the first filter 122 and the second filter 123. Here, the first space S1 is provided in the cylindrical portion 121b. The first filter 122 and the second filter 123 cause the adsorbent 124 to remain in the first space S1.

[0064] In this way, the adsorbent 124 is placed in the first space S1. The adsorbent 124 is in powder form. Therefore, the adsorbent 124 is movable within the first space S1. Here, powdery adsorbent 124 means that it is not fixed with a binder.

[0065] The adsorbent 124 adsorbs and desorbs the refrigerant flowing through the first space S1 in response to changes in the pressure of the refrigerant flowing through the first space S1. Specifically, the adsorbent 124 adsorbs the refrigerant in the first space S1 when the pressure of the refrigerant in the first space S1 is equal to or greater than the adsorption pressure. The adsorbent 124 desorbs the refrigerant in the first space S1 when the pressure of the refrigerant in the first space S1 is equal to or less than the desorption pressure. The adsorption pressure is the minimum pressure range in which the adsorbent 124 can adsorb the refrigerant. The desorption pressure is the maximum pressure range in which the adsorbent 124 can desorb the refrigerant. The adsorption pressure and desorption pressure vary depending on the type of adsorbent 124 and the type of refrigerant.

[0066] The adsorbent 124 contains a metal-organic framework (MOF) comprising 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, a polymer structure with countless openings inside is obtained by the linkage of organic ligands with metal ions. The opening diameter and topology of the metal-organic framework can be adjusted by selectively combining metal ions and organic ligands. Therefore, the opening diameter of the metal-organic framework can be adjusted by selecting and combining metal ions and organic ligands, and it can selectively adsorb target substances. For example, metal-organic frameworks are used as porous materials that have the function of selective storage and separation of molecules and ions.

[0067] In the refrigeration system 100, the metal-organic structure is used as an adsorbent for adsorbing and desorbing the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant channel 103. Examples of metal-organic structures include MOF-5, MOF-200, UiO-66, and MIL-101. The adsorbent 124 used in the refrigeration system 100 is, for example, a powder of the metal-organic structure.

[0068] The first heat recovery member 125 is positioned in the first space S1. In Figure 3, the first heat recovery member 125 is located in the vertical center of the first space S1. The center includes the vertical center of the first space S1. The first heat recovery member 125 and the first casing 121 are spaced apart in the vertical and horizontal directions. The space between the first heat recovery member 125 and the first casing 121 is filled with refrigerant.

[0069] Furthermore, an insulating material may be placed between the first casing 121 and the first heat recovery member 125. The thermal conductivity of the insulating material is lower than that of the material constituting the first casing 121. In addition, the insulating material may be coated on the inner surface of the first casing 121.

[0070] The first heat recovery member 125 recovers the heat generated when the adsorbent 124 adsorbs or desorbs the refrigerant. Here, the first heat recovery member 125 transfers the heat generated when the refrigerant is adsorbed and desorbed by the adsorbent 124 to a heat transfer medium for transporting the heat to the utilization side.

[0071] The first heat recovery member 125 is, for example, of the cross-fin type. As shown in Figure 3(B), the first heat recovery member 125 includes a heat transfer tube 125a and a plurality of fins 125b.

[0072] A heat transfer medium flows inside the heat transfer tube 125a. The heat transfer tube 125a constitutes a part of the heat transfer medium flow path 104. The internal space of the heat transfer tube 125a does not communicate with the internal space of the first casing 121.

[0073] Multiple fins 125b have through holes through which the heat transfer tubes 125a pass in the direction of stacking. The multiple fins 125b are stacked at predetermined intervals along the direction in which the heat transfer tubes 125a extend. In Figure 3, the multiple fins 125b are stacked horizontally.

[0074] The fin 125b is a plate-shaped member having a main surface. The main surface is at an angle of 45° or less with respect to the vertical direction. Also, the direction in which the fin 125b extends is at an angle of 45° or less with respect to the direction of refrigerant flow. In Figure 3(B), the main surface of the fin 125b extends in the vertical direction.

[0075] As shown in Figure 3, the refrigerant passes through the first casing 121 in the order of the first filter 122 and the second filter 123. More specifically, the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path 103 flows into the first container 120 from the first connection part 121a. This refrigerant passes through the first connection part 121a and flows into the cylindrical part 121b. This refrigerant then passes through the first filter 122, the first space S1, and the second filter 123 in order, and flows out of the first container 120 from the second connection part 121c.

[0076] (1-3-2)Second container In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 3, the configuration of the second container 130 is the same as that of the first container 120. Specifically, the second container 130 includes a second casing 131, a third filter 132, a fourth filter 133, an adsorbent 124, and a second heat recovery member 135.

[0077] The second casing 131 houses the third filter 132, the fourth filter 133, the adsorbent 124, and the second heat recovery member 135. The second casing 131 has a first connecting portion 131a, a cylindrical portion 131b, and a second connecting portion 131c. The first connecting portion 131a, the cylindrical portion 131b, and the second connecting portion 131c of the second casing 131 are the same as the first connecting portion 121a, the cylindrical portion 121b, and the second connecting portion 121c of the first casing 121.

[0078] The third filter 132 and the fourth filter 133 are located within the second casing 131. The third filter 132 and the fourth filter 133 of the second container 130 are the same as the first filter 122 and the second filter 123 of the first container 120.

[0079] Within the second casing 131, the second space S2 is partitioned by the third filter 132 and the fourth filter 133. Here, the second space S2 is provided in the cylindrical portion 131b.

[0080] The adsorbent 124 is placed in the second space S2. The adsorbent 124 is movable within the second space S2. The adsorbent 124 adsorbs and desorbs the refrigerant flowing through the second space S2 in response to changes in the pressure of the refrigerant flowing through the second space S2.

[0081] The adsorbent 124 adsorbs the refrigerant in the second space S2 when the pressure of the refrigerant in the second space S2 is equal to or greater than the adsorption pressure. The adsorbent 124 desorbs the refrigerant in the second space S2 when the pressure of the refrigerant in the second space S2 is equal to or less than the desorption pressure.

[0082] The second heat recovery member 135 is positioned in the second space S2. The second heat recovery member 135 includes a heat transfer tube 135a and a plurality of fins 135b. The heat transfer tube 135a and fins 135b of the second heat recovery member 135 are the same as the heat transfer tube 125a and fins 125b of the first heat recovery member 125.

[0083] The refrigerant passes through the second casing 131, in the order of the third filter 132 and the fourth filter 133. More specifically, the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant flow path 103 flows into the second container 130 from the first connection part 131a. This refrigerant passes through the first connection part 131a and flows into the cylindrical part 131b. This refrigerant then passes through the third filter 132, the second space S2, and the fourth filter 133 in order, and flows out of the second container 130 from the second connection part 131c.

[0084] (1-4) 1st to 4th valves As shown in Figure 1, the refrigerant flow path 103 includes a first flow path 103a, a second flow path 103b, a third flow path 103c, and a fourth flow path 103d.

[0085] The first channel 103a connects the outlet of the first container 120 and the inlet of the second container 130. In this case, the first channel 103a connects the second connection part 121c of the first container 120 and the first connection part 131a of the second container 130.

[0086] The second channel 103b connects the outlet of the second container 130 to the inlet of the first container 120. Here, the second channel 103b connects the second connection part 131c of the second container 130 to the first connection part 121a of the first container 120.

[0087] The first flow path 103a and the second flow path 103b are flow paths for directing the refrigerant from bottom to top in the first container 120 and the second container 130.

[0088] The third flow path 103c branches off from the first flow path 103a and is connected to the suction side of the compressor 111. Here, the third flow path 103c connects the space between the outlet of the first container 120 and the first valve 113 in the first flow path 103a to the flow path on the suction side of the compressor 111.

[0089] The fourth flow path 103d branches off from the second flow path 103b and is connected to the suction side of the compressor 111. Here, the fourth flow path 103d connects the space between the outlet of the second container 130 and the second valve 114 in the second flow path 103b to the flow path on the suction side of the compressor 111.

[0090] The first valve 113 is located in the first flow path 103a. The second valve 114 is located in the second flow path 103b. The third valve 115 is located in the third flow path 103c. The fourth valve 116 is located in the fourth flow path 103d.

[0091] The first valve 113 and the second valve 114 are, for example, solenoid valves, motorized valves, etc., and in this case, motorized valves. The first valve 113 and the second valve 114 allow or block the flow of refrigerant and adjust the flow rate of the refrigerant.

[0092] The third valve 115 and the fourth valve 116 are solenoid valves, motorized valves, etc., and in this case, they are solenoid valves. The third valve 115 and the fourth valve 116 allow or block the flow of refrigerant.

[0093] As shown in Figure 4, in the first state, the first valve 113 and the fourth valve 116 are open. As shown in Figure 5, in the second state, the second valve 114 and the third valve 115 are open.

[0094] (1-5) Control Unit The control unit 105 shown in Figure 2 is a functional unit that controls the operation of various components of the refrigeration system 100. 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 for the device into memory and executes them. The processor loads the programs stored in memory into the working area of ​​the memory and executes them, and by controlling each component through the execution of the programs, it realizes functions that match the predetermined purpose.

[0095] As shown in Figure 2, the control unit 105 controls the compressor 111, switching mechanism 112, first valve 113, second valve 114, third valve 115, and fourth valve 116 of the heat source side circuit 101.

[0096] Specifically, the control unit 105 controls the rotational speed of the compressor 111. The control unit 105 also controls the timing for starting the compressor 111 and the timing for stopping the compressor 111.

[0097] Furthermore, the control unit 105 controls the switching mechanism 112 to switch the refrigerant flow path 103 between the first state and the second state.

[0098] Furthermore, the control unit 105 controls the opening and closing of the first valve 113, the second valve 114, the third valve 115, and the fourth valve 116. Specifically, to achieve the first state, the control unit 105 controls the first valve 113 and the fourth valve 116 to be in the open state. Also, to achieve the second state, the control unit 105 controls the second valve 114 and the third valve 115 to be in the open state. In addition, the control unit 105 controls the opening degree of the first valve 113 and the second valve 114 to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant in order to allow the high-pressure refrigerant that has flowed out of the high-pressure side container to flow into the low-pressure side container.

[0099] The control unit 105 continues the operation of the compressor 111 when switching the refrigerant flow path 103. More specifically, the control unit 105 continues the operation of the compressor 111 when switching the refrigerant flow path 103 from the first state to the second state, and also continues the operation of the compressor 111 when switching the refrigerant flow path 103 from the second state to the first state.

[0100] Furthermore, the control unit 105 controls the first pump 141, the first fan 143, the second pump 151, the second fan 153, and the flow path changing units 156-159 of the user-side circuit 102. The control unit 105 controls the capacity of the first pump 141 and the second pump 151. The control unit 105 controls the rotation speed of the first fan 143 and the second fan 153. The control unit 105 controls the flow path changing units 156-159 to switch the heat transfer medium flow path 104 between the third state and the fourth state.

[0101] (2) Operation of the refrigeration system The operation of the refrigeration system 100 will be described in the case where the refrigeration system 100 is an air conditioning system. In this case, the first heat exchanger 142 is an indoor heat exchanger, and the second heat exchanger 152 is an outdoor heat exchanger.

[0102] (2-1) Flow of refrigerant in the first state and flow of heat transfer medium in the third state The first operation, in which the refrigerant flow path 103 is in the first state and the heat transfer fluid flow path 104 is in the third state, will be explained with reference to Figure 4.

[0103] Upon receiving the command for the first operation, the control unit 105 sets the switching mechanism 112 to the first state, opens the first valve 113 and the fourth valve 116, and closes the second valve 114 and the third valve 115 for the heat source side circuit 101. The control unit 105 also sets the flow path changing units 156 to 159 to the third state for the user side circuit 102.

[0104] In this heat source circuit 101, as shown in Figure 4, the low-pressure refrigerant is drawn into the compressor 111, compressed to the high pressure of the refrigeration cycle, and then discharged. The high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor 111 passes through the switching mechanism 112 and is sent to the first container 120. The high-pressure refrigerant flows into the first container 120 from the first connection part 121a. The high-pressure refrigerant passes through the first connection part 121a and flows into the inside of the cylindrical part 121b. Inside the cylindrical part 121b, the high-pressure refrigerant passes through the first filter 122 and the second filter 123 in sequence. As the high-pressure refrigerant passes through the first space S1 partitioned by the first filter 122 and the second filter 123, it comes into contact with the adsorbent 124. Then, the high-pressure refrigerant flows out of the first container 120 from the second connection part 121c.

[0105] The high-pressure refrigerant flowing out of the first container 120 flows through the first channel 103a and is sent to the second container 130. The high-pressure refrigerant flowing out of the first container 120 may be reduced in pressure to the low pressure in the refrigeration cycle at the first valve 113. The low-pressure refrigerant reduced in pressure at the first valve 113 flows into the second container 130 from the first connection part 131a. The low-pressure refrigerant passes through the first connection part 131a and flows into the inside of the cylindrical part 131b. Inside the cylindrical part 131b, the low-pressure refrigerant passes through the third filter 132 and the fourth filter 133 in order. As the low-pressure refrigerant passes through the second space S2 partitioned by the third filter 132 and the fourth filter 133, it comes into contact with the adsorbent 124. The low-pressure refrigerant then flows out of the second container 130 from the second connection part 131c.

[0106] The low-pressure refrigerant that flows out of the second container 130 flows through the second channel 103b and the fourth channel 103d, passes through the fourth valve 116, and is drawn back into the compressor 111.

[0107] Meanwhile, in the user-side circuit 102, in the first circulation channel 104a, the heat transfer medium is drawn in from the suction port of the first pump 141 and then discharged from the discharge port of the first pump 141. The heat transfer medium discharged from the first pump 141 flows into the first heat exchanger 142. The heat transfer medium that has undergone heat exchange (cooled) in the first heat exchanger 142 passes through the flow path change section 156 and flows into the first container 120.

[0108] The heat transfer medium flowing through the heat transfer tube 125a of the first heat recovery member 125 inside the first container 120 exchanges heat with the adsorbent 124 via a plurality of fins 125b (is heated) and then flows out. The heat transfer medium that has flowed out of the first container 120 passes through the flow path change section 157 and is sucked back into the first pump 141.

[0109] In the second circulation channel 104b, the heat transfer medium is drawn in from the suction port of the second pump 151 and then discharged from the discharge port of the second pump 151. The heat transfer medium discharged from the second pump 151 flows into the second heat exchanger 152. The heat transfer medium that has undergone heat exchange (heated) in the second heat exchanger 152 passes through the flow path change section 158 and flows into the second container 130.

[0110] The heat transfer medium flowing through the heat transfer tube 135a of the second heat recovery member 135 inside the second container 130 exchanges heat with the adsorbent 124 via a plurality of fins 135b (is cooled) and flows out. The heat transfer medium that has flowed out of the second container 130 passes through the flow path change section 159 and is sucked back into the second pump 151.

[0111] (2-2) Flow of refrigerant in the second state and flow of heat transfer medium in the fourth state The first operation, in which the refrigerant flow path 103 is in the second state and the heat transfer fluid flow path 104 is in the fourth state, will be explained with reference to Figure 5.

[0112] Upon receiving the command for the second operation, the control unit 105 sets the switching mechanism 112 to the second state, opens the second valve 114 and the third valve 115, and closes the first valve 113 and the fourth valve 116 for the heat source side circuit 101. The control unit 105 also sets the flow path changing units 156-159 to the fourth state for the user side circuit 102.

[0113] In this heat source circuit 101, as shown in Figure 5, the low-pressure refrigerant is drawn into the compressor 111, compressed to the high pressure of the refrigeration cycle, and then discharged. The high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor 111 passes through the switching mechanism 112 and is sent to the second container 130. The high-pressure refrigerant flows into the second container 130 from the first connection part 131a. The high-pressure refrigerant passes through the first connection part 131a and flows into the inside of the cylindrical part 131b. Inside the cylindrical part 131b, the high-pressure refrigerant passes through the third filter 132 and the fourth filter 133 in order. As the high-pressure refrigerant passes through the second space S2 partitioned by the third filter 132 and the fourth filter 133, it comes into contact with the adsorbent 124. Then, the high-pressure refrigerant flows out of the second container 130 from the second connection part 131c.

[0114] The high-pressure refrigerant flowing out of the second container 130 flows through the second flow path 103b and is reduced in pressure to the low pressure of the refrigeration cycle at the second valve 114. The low-pressure refrigerant reduced in pressure at the second valve 114 is sent to the first container 120. The low-pressure refrigerant flows into the first container 120 from the first connection part 121a. The low-pressure refrigerant passes through the first connection part 121a and flows into the inside of the cylindrical part 121b. Inside the cylindrical part 121b, the low-pressure refrigerant passes through the first filter 122 and the second filter 123 in sequence. As the low-pressure refrigerant passes through the first space S1 partitioned by the first filter 122 and the second filter 123, it comes into contact with the adsorbent 124. This low-pressure refrigerant flows out of the first container 120 from the second connection part 121c.

[0115] The low-pressure refrigerant that flows out of the first container 120 flows through the first channel 103a and the third channel 103c, passes through the third valve 115, and is drawn back into the compressor 111.

[0116] Meanwhile, in the user-side circuit 102, in the first circulation channel 104a, the heat transfer medium is drawn in from the suction port of the first pump 141 and then discharged from the discharge port of the first pump 141. The heat transfer medium discharged from the first pump 141 flows into the first heat exchanger 142. The heat transfer medium that has undergone heat exchange (cooled) in the first heat exchanger 142 passes through the flow path change section 156 and flows into the second container 130.

[0117] The heat transfer medium flowing through the heat transfer tube 135a of the second heat recovery member 135 inside the second container 130 exchanges heat with the adsorbent 124 via a plurality of fins 135b (is heated) and then flows out. The heat transfer medium that has flowed out of the second container 130 passes through the flow path change section 157 and is sucked back into the first pump 141.

[0118] In the second circulation channel 104b, the heat transfer medium is drawn in from the suction port of the second pump 151 and then discharged from the discharge port of the second pump 151. The heat transfer medium discharged from the second pump 151 flows into the second heat exchanger 152. The heat transfer medium that has undergone heat exchange (heated) in the second heat exchanger 152 passes through the flow path change section 158 and flows into the first container 120.

[0119] The heat transfer medium flowing through the heat transfer tube 125a of the first heat recovery member 125 inside the first container 120 exchanges heat with the adsorbent 124 via a plurality of fins 125b (is cooled) and flows out. The heat transfer medium that has flowed out of the first container 120 passes through the flow path change section 159 and is sucked back into the second pump 151.

[0120] (2-3) Heat transfer in refrigeration systems The adsorbent material 124 in the first container 120 and the second container 130 adsorbs and desorbs the refrigerant in the refrigerant flow path 103. The adsorbent material 124 adsorbs the refrigerant when it is in contact with the high-pressure refrigerant in the first space S1 and the second space S2. The adsorbent material 124 desorbs the refrigerant when it is in contact with the low-pressure refrigerant in the first space S1 and the second space S2.

[0121] As shown in Figure 4, when the refrigerant flow path 103 is in the first state, it is possible to connect the discharge side of the compressor 111 to the first container 120 to create a high-pressure state inside the first container 120, and to connect the suction side of the compressor 111 to the second container 130 to create a low-pressure state inside the second container 130. When the first container 120 is in a high-pressure state, the adsorbent 124 of the first container 120 is in contact with the high-pressure refrigerant in the first space S1. When the second container 130 is in a low-pressure state, the adsorbent 124 of the second container 130 is in contact with the low-pressure refrigerant in the second space S2.

[0122] As shown in Figure 5, when the refrigerant flow path 103 is in the second state, it is possible to connect the suction side of the compressor 111 to the first container 120 to create a low-pressure state inside the first container 120, and to connect the discharge side of the compressor 111 to the second container 130 to create a high-pressure state inside the second container 130. When the first container 120 is in a low-pressure state, the adsorbent 124 of the first container 120 is in contact with the low-pressure refrigerant in the first space S1. When the second container 130 is in a high-pressure state, the adsorbent 124 of the second container 130 is in contact with the high-pressure refrigerant in the second space S2.

[0123] The change in the amount of refrigerant adsorbed by the adsorbent material 124 when the refrigerant flow path 103 is in the first state will be explained. When the switching mechanism 112 switches from the second state to the first state, the amount of adsorbent in the adsorbent material 124 of the first container 120 is the first adsorbent amount, and the amount of adsorbent in the adsorbent material 124 of the second container 130 is the second adsorbent amount. The second adsorbent amount is greater than the first adsorbent amount.

[0124] When the refrigerant flow path 103 is in the first state, the adsorbent 124 in the first container 120 is in contact with the high-pressure refrigerant, and the adsorbent 124 in the second container 130 is in contact with the low-pressure refrigerant. In the first container 120, the adsorbent 124 gradually adsorbs the refrigerant, releasing heat in the process. In the second container 130, the adsorbent 124 gradually desorbs the refrigerant, absorbing heat in the process. Therefore, the amount of adsorbent 124 in the first container 120 increases from the first adsorption amount to the second adsorption amount, and the amount of adsorbent 124 in the second container 130 decreases from the second adsorption amount to the first adsorption amount.

[0125] The change in the amount of refrigerant adsorbed by the adsorbent material 124 when the refrigerant flow path 103 is in the second state will be explained. When the switching mechanism 112 switches from the first state to the second state, the amount of adsorbent adsorbed by the adsorbent material 124 in the first container 120 is the second adsorbent amount, and the amount of adsorbent adsorbed by the adsorbent material 124 in the second container 130 is the first adsorbent amount.

[0126] When the refrigerant flow path 103 is in the second state, the adsorbent 124 in the first container 120 is in contact with the low-pressure refrigerant, and the adsorbent 124 in the second container 130 is in contact with the high-pressure refrigerant. In the first container 120, the adsorbent 124 gradually desorbs the refrigerant, and in the process, the adsorbent 124 absorbs heat. In the second container 130, the adsorbent 124 gradually adsorbs the refrigerant, and in the process, the adsorbent 124 releases heat. Therefore, the amount of adsorbent 124 in the first container 120 decreases from the second adsorption amount to the first adsorption amount, and the amount of adsorbent 124 in the second container 130 increases from the first adsorption amount to the second adsorption amount.

[0127] In the first operation, where the refrigerant flow path 103 is in the first state and the heat transfer medium flow path 104 is in the third state, in the first container 120, the heat generated during the process of the adsorbent 124 adsorbing the refrigerant in the first space S1 is transferred to the heat transfer medium in the heat transfer tube 125a of the first heat recovery member 125. On the other hand, in the second container 130, the cold generated during the process of the refrigerant adsorbed on the adsorbent 124 desorbing from the adsorbent 124 is transferred to the heat transfer medium in the heat transfer tube 135a of the second heat recovery member 135. Therefore, in the first container 120, heat is transferred from the refrigerant to the heat transfer medium flowing through the first circulation flow path 104a, and in the second container 130, heat is transferred from the heat transfer medium flowing through the second circulation flow path 104b to the refrigerant.

[0128] Subsequently, when the amount of adsorption by the adsorbent material 124 in the first container 120 reaches the second adsorption amount, the adsorbent material 124 in the first container 120 becomes less adsorbent of the refrigerant. When this state is reached, the refrigerant flow path 103 is switched from the first state to the second state, and the heat transfer medium flow path 104 is switched from the third state to the fourth state.

[0129] When the refrigerant flow path 103 is in the second state and the heat transfer medium flow path 104 is in the fourth state, in the second container 130, the heat generated during the process of the adsorbent 124 adsorbing the refrigerant in the second space S2 is transferred to the heat transfer medium in the heat transfer tube 135a of the second heat recovery member 135. On the other hand, in the first container 120, the cold generated during the process of the refrigerant adsorbed on the adsorbent 124 desorbing from the adsorbent 124 is transferred to the heat transfer medium in the heat transfer tube 125a of the first heat recovery member 125. Therefore, in the first container 120, heat is transferred from the heat transfer medium flowing through the second circulation flow path 104b to the refrigerant, and in the second container 130, heat is transferred from the refrigerant to the heat transfer medium flowing through the first circulation flow path 104a.

[0130] Subsequently, when the adsorption amount of the adsorbent material 124 in the second container 130 reaches the second adsorption amount, the adsorbent material 124 in the second container 130 becomes less adsorbent of the refrigerant. When this state is reached, the refrigerant flow path 103 is switched from the second state to the first state, and the heat transfer medium flow path 104 is switched from the fourth state to the third state.

[0131] As described above, by alternately switching the refrigerant flow path 103 between the first state and the second state, the refrigerant can be continuously adsorbed onto the adsorbent 124 in either the first container 120 or the second container 130. Furthermore, by alternately switching the heat transfer medium flow path 104 between the third state and the fourth state in conjunction with the switching between the first and second states, the heat generated when the refrigerant is adsorbed onto the adsorbent 124 can be continuously supplied to the heat transfer medium flowing through the first circulation flow path 104a.

[0132] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the compressor 111 is kept running while the refrigerant flow path 103 is alternately switched between the first state and the second state. This reduces the number of times the compressor 111 is started and stopped.

[0133] Therefore, the refrigeration system 100 can continue to supply the heat transfer medium, heated by heat exchange with the refrigerant, to the first heat exchanger 142 connected to the first circulation channel 104a. The air that has exchanged heat with the heat transfer medium in the first heat exchanger 142 is sent to a predetermined location by the first fan 143.

[0134] (2-4) Operation of refrigerant and adsorbent in the first and second containers As shown in Figure 3, the refrigerant moves vertically upward in the first container 120 from the first filter 122 towards the second filter 123, and in the second container 130 from the third filter 132 towards the fourth filter 133. As the refrigerant moves, the adsorbent 124 sealed in the first space S1 partitioned by the first filter 122 and the second filter 123, and the adsorbent 124 sealed in the second space S2 partitioned by the third filter 132 and the fourth filter 133, can move vertically upward. Furthermore, since the adsorbent 124 is in powder form, the adsorbent 124 sealed in the first space S1 and the second space S2 can move vertically downward due to gravity. As a result, when the refrigerant passes through the first container 120 and the second container 130, the adsorbent 124 that generates heat through the adsorption or desorption of the refrigerant can flow freely in multiple directions. The freely flowing adsorbent 124 brings it into contact with the first heat recovery member 125 and the second heat recovery member 135. This contact allows the heat from the adsorbent to be efficiently transferred to the first heat recovery member 125 and the second heat recovery member 135, thereby improving the efficiency of heat recovery.

[0135] (3) Features (3-1) In conventional non-circulating refrigeration systems equipped with adsorption refrigeration cycles, a molded product made by mixing powdered adsorbent and a binder is applied to the surface of the fins of the heat recovery component, thereby supporting the adsorbent on the fins. However, the binder acts as an impurity in the heat exchange between the adsorbent and the heat transfer medium within the heat recovery component. Therefore, there is a problem in that the binder reduces the efficiency of heat exchange between the refrigerant and the heat transfer medium via the adsorbent.

[0136] To address this problem, the refrigeration system 100 of this embodiment has the following configuration. Specifically, the refrigeration system 100 includes a refrigerant flow path 103, a compressor 111, a first container 120, a second container 130, and a switching mechanism 112. The refrigerant flows through the refrigerant flow path 103. The compressor 111 compresses the refrigerant. The first container 120 and the second container 130 have a powdery adsorbent 124 that exchanges heat between the refrigerant and the heat transfer medium. The adsorbent 124 adsorbs and desorbs the refrigerant in accordance with changes in the pressure of the refrigerant. The switching mechanism 112 can switch the refrigerant flow path 103 between a first state (see Figure 4) and a second state (see Figure 5). In the first state, the first container 120 is under high pressure and the second container 130 is under low pressure. In the second state, the first container 120 is under low pressure and the second container 130 is under high pressure. The first container 120 includes a first casing 121, a first filter 122, a second filter 123, an adsorbent 124, and a first heat recovery member 125. The refrigerant passes through the first casing 121. The first filter 122 is located inside the first casing 121. The second filter 123 is located inside the first casing 121. The adsorbent 124 is located in a first space S1 inside the first casing 121. The first space S1 is partitioned by the first filter 122 and the second filter 123. The first heat recovery member 125 is located in the first space S1 and recovers the heat generated when the adsorbent 124 adsorbs or desorbs the refrigerant. The second container 130 includes a second casing 131, a third filter 132, a fourth filter 133, an adsorbent 124, and a second heat recovery member 135. The second casing 131 is through which the refrigerant passes. The third filter 132 is located inside the second casing 131. The fourth filter 133 is located inside the second casing 131. The adsorbent 124 is located in the second space S2 within the second casing 131. The second space S2 is partitioned by the third filter 132 and the fourth filter 133. The second heat recovery member 135 is located in the second space S2 and recovers the heat generated when the adsorbent 124 adsorbs or desorbs the refrigerant. The first filter 122, the second filter 123, the third filter 132, and the fourth filter 133 allow the refrigerant to pass through but prevent the adsorbent 124 from passing through.

[0137] In the refrigeration system 100 of this embodiment, when the refrigerant passes through the first space S1 partitioned by the first filter 122 and the second filter 123, and the second space S2 partitioned by the third filter 132 and the fourth filter 133, in the first container 120 and the second container 130, the adsorbent 124 generates heat through the adsorption or desorption (detachment) of the refrigerant. As the refrigerant passes through, this powdery adsorbent 124 can be moved to the first heat recovery member 125 and the second heat recovery member 135. For this reason, in the refrigeration system 100 of this embodiment, the binder for supporting the adsorbent 124 on the first heat recovery member 125 and the second heat recovery member 135 can be omitted in the first container 120 and the second container 130. By omitting the binder, which would become an impurity during heat exchange, the heat generated by the adsorption or desorption of the refrigerant in the adsorbent 124 can be efficiently transferred to the first heat recovery member 125 and the second heat recovery member 135. Since the heat transfer coefficient can be improved, the efficiency of heat exchange between the refrigerant and the heat transfer medium via the adsorbent can be increased.

[0138] (3-2) In the refrigeration apparatus 100 of this embodiment, the first casing 121 has a first connection portion 121a, a cylindrical portion 121b, and a second connection portion 121c. The first connection portion 121a is through which the refrigerant flows in. The cylindrical portion 121b communicates with the first connection portion 121a and houses the adsorbent 124 and the first heat recovery member 125. The second connection portion 121c communicates with the cylindrical portion 121b and through which the refrigerant flows out. The refrigerant passes through the first casing 121 in the order of the first filter 122 and the second filter 123.

[0139] In this configuration, the refrigerant flows from the first connection part 121a into the cylindrical part 121b and out through the second connection part 121c. As it passes through the first filter 122 and the second filter 123 in this order, the powdery adsorbent 124 placed between the first filter 122 and the second filter 123 can be easily moved. This facilitates the transfer of heat generated by the adsorbent 124 to the first heat recovery member 125, thus easily realizing a first container 120 with improved heat exchange efficiency.

[0140] Furthermore, in the refrigeration device 100 of this embodiment, the second casing 131 has a first connection portion 131a, a cylindrical portion 131b, and a second connection portion 131c. The first connection portion 131a is through which the refrigerant flows in. The cylindrical portion 131b communicates with the first connection portion 131a and houses the adsorbent 124 and the second heat recovery member 135. The second connection portion 131c communicates with the cylindrical portion 131b and through which the refrigerant flows out. The refrigerant passes through the second casing 131 in the order of the third filter 132 and the fourth filter 133.

[0141] In this configuration, the refrigerant flows from the first connection part 131a into the cylindrical part 131b and out through the second connection part 131c. As it passes through the third filter 132 and the fourth filter 133 in that order, the powdery adsorbent 124 positioned between the third filter 132 and the fourth filter 133 can be easily moved. This facilitates the transfer of heat generated by the adsorbent 124 to the second heat recovery member 135, thus easily realizing a second container 130 with improved heat exchange efficiency.

[0142] (3-3) In the refrigeration system 100 of this embodiment, the first filter 122 is located vertically below the second filter 123.

[0143] In this configuration, the refrigerant moves vertically upward from the first filter 122 to the second filter 123 in the first container 120. As a result, the adsorbent 124 moves both with the movement of the refrigerant and with gravity. Therefore, the adsorbent 124 can be continuously moved in the first container 120, thereby improving the efficiency of heat exchange.

[0144] Furthermore, in the refrigeration device 100 of this embodiment, the third filter 132 is located vertically below the fourth filter 133.

[0145] In this configuration, the refrigerant moves vertically upward from the third filter 132 to the fourth filter 133 in the second container 130. As a result, the adsorbent 124 moves both with the movement of the refrigerant and with gravity. Therefore, the adsorbent 124 can be continuously moved in the second container 130, thereby improving the efficiency of heat exchange.

[0146] (3-4) In the refrigeration apparatus 100 of this embodiment, the first connection portion 121a of the first container 120 is located vertically lower than the second connection portion 121c.

[0147] In this configuration, the refrigerant moves vertically upward from the first connection point 121a to the second connection point 121c in the first container 120. Therefore, the adsorbent 124 can move both with the movement of the refrigerant and with gravity. Consequently, the adsorbent 124 can be moved continuously, thereby improving the efficiency of heat exchange.

[0148] Furthermore, in the refrigeration device 100 of this embodiment, the first connection portion 131a of the second container 130 is located vertically below the second connection portion 131c.

[0149] Here, in the second container 130, the refrigerant moves vertically upward from the first connection part 131a towards the second connection part 131c. Therefore, the adsorbent 124 can move with the movement of the refrigerant and also move due to gravity. As a result, the adsorbent 124 can be moved continuously, which further improves the efficiency of heat exchange.

[0150] (3-5) The refrigeration system 100 of this embodiment further includes a control unit 105. The control unit 105 controls the compressor 111 and the switching mechanism 112. The control unit 105 continues the operation of the compressor 111 when the refrigerant flow path 103 is switched.

[0151] In this configuration, the compressor 111 can continue operating during the transition between the first state shown in Figure 4 and the second state shown in Figure 5, thereby reducing the number of times the compressor 111 is started and stopped. Consequently, the reliability of the compressor 111 can be improved.

[0152] Furthermore, since the compressor 111 is not stopped when switching between the first and second states, the movement of the adsorbent 124 can be continued in the first container 120 and the second container 130. Therefore, the heat generated by the adsorption or desorption of the refrigerant from the adsorbent 124 can be continuously transferred to the first heat recovery member 125 and the second heat recovery member 135.

[0153] (3-6) In the refrigeration apparatus 100 of this embodiment, the refrigerant flow path 103 includes a first flow path 103a and a second flow path 103b. The first flow path 103a connects the outlet of the first container 120 to the inlet of the second container 130. The second flow path 103b connects the outlet of the second container 130 to the inlet of the first container 120.

[0154] Here, the first flow path 103a allows refrigerant to flow from the first container 120 to the second container 130, and the second flow path 103b allows refrigerant to flow from the second container 130 to the first container 120.

[0155] (3-7) The refrigeration device 100 of this embodiment further comprises a first valve 113 and a second valve 114. The first valve 113 is provided in the first flow path 103a. The second valve 114 is provided in the second flow path 103b.

[0156] Here, by opening the first valve 113 and closing the second valve 114, refrigerant can flow from the first container 120 to the second container 130 without flowing from the second container 130 to the first container 120. By closing the first valve 113 and opening the second valve 114, refrigerant can flow from the second container 130 to the first container 120 without flowing from the first container 120 to the second container 130.

[0157] (3-8) In the refrigeration system 100 of this embodiment, the refrigerant flow path 103 further includes a third flow path 103c and a fourth flow path 103d. The third flow path 103c branches off from the first flow path 103a and is connected to the suction side of the compressor 111. The fourth flow path 103d branches off from the second flow path 103b and is connected to the suction side of the compressor 111. The refrigeration system 100 further includes a third valve 115 and a fourth valve 116. The third valve 115 is provided in the third flow path 103c. The fourth valve 116 is provided in the fourth flow path 103d.

[0158] Here, by opening the third valve 115, the refrigerant that has flowed out of the first container 120 can be directed to the compressor 111. By opening the fourth valve 116, the refrigerant that has flowed out of the second container 130 can be directed to the compressor 111.

[0159] (3-9) In this embodiment, the refrigeration device 100 has the first valve 113 and the fourth valve 116 open in the first state shown in Figure 4, and the second valve 114 and the third valve 115 open in the second state shown in Figure 5.

[0160] In the first state, the refrigerant flows from the high-pressure side first container 120 to the low-pressure side second container 130 because the first valve 113 is open, and from the second container 130 to the compressor 111 because the fourth valve 116 is open. In the second state, the refrigerant flows from the high-pressure side second container 130 to the low-pressure side first container 120 because the second valve 114 is open, and from the first container 120 to the compressor 111 because the third valve 115 is open.

[0161] (3-10) In the refrigeration apparatus 100 of this embodiment, the adsorbent 124 includes a metal-organic structure containing metal ions and an organic ligand.

[0162] Thus, the metal-organic structure is suitably used as an adsorbent 124 for adsorbing and desorbing refrigerants.

[0163] (3-11) The refrigeration system 100 of this embodiment includes at least one of carbon dioxide, hydrocarbons, ammonia, water, HFCs, and HFOs as a refrigerant.

[0164] Thus, refrigerants containing carbon dioxide, hydrocarbons, ammonia, water, HFCs, and HFOs are suitably used as refrigerants in refrigeration systems equipped with an adsorption refrigeration cycle.

[0165] (4) Variations (4-1) Experimental variation 1 In the above embodiment, the first container 120 and the second container 130 each had one refrigerant inlet, but this is not the case. In this modified example, as shown in Figure 6, the first container 120 and the second container each have two refrigerant inlets. In Figure 7, the first container 120 has two first connection parts 121a for the refrigerant to flow into the first container 120. The second container 130 has two first connection parts 131a for the refrigerant to flow into the second container 130.

[0166] (4-2) Modification 2 In the above embodiment, the first filter 122 and the second filter 123 are arranged in the cylindrical portion 121b, and the third filter 132 and the fourth filter 133 are arranged in the cylindrical portion 131b, but the embodiment is not limited to this. The first filter 122 and the third filter 132 may be arranged in the first connecting portions 121a and 131a. In this case, the first filter 122 and the third filter 132 have the same shape as the inner shape of the first connecting portions 121a and 131a. The second filter 123 and the fourth filter 133 may be arranged in the second connecting portions 121c and 131c. In this case, the second filter 123 and the fourth filter 133 have the same shape as the second connecting portions 121c and 131c.

[0167] In this modified example, as shown in Figure 8, the first filter 122 and the third filter 132 are arranged in the first connection portions 121a and 131a. Here, the first filter 122 and the third filter 132 are arranged near the boundary with the cylindrical portions 121b and 131b in the first connection portions 121a and 131a. The second filter 123 and the fourth filter 133 are arranged at the top of the cylindrical portions 121b and 131b. When the inner diameter of the second filter 123 is larger than the inner diameter of the first filter 122, and when the inner diameter of the fourth filter 133 is larger than the inner diameter of the third filter 132, it is possible to suppress clogging of the second filter 123 and the fourth filter 133 with the adsorbent 124.

[0168] Thus, in this modified refrigeration apparatus, the first filter 122 is located at the first connection part 121a.

[0169] In this configuration, since the first filter 122 is positioned at the first connection point 121a in the first container 120, it is possible to increase the distance between the first filter 122 and the second filter 123.

[0170] In the modified refrigeration device 100, the third filter 132 is located at the first connection part 131a.

[0171] In this case, since the third filter 132 is positioned at the first connection part 131a in the second container 130, it is possible to increase the distance between the third filter 132 and the fourth filter 133.

[0172] (4-3) Modification 3 In the above embodiment, the refrigeration device 100 is equipped with a third valve 115 and a fourth valve 116, but is not limited thereto. In this modified example, as shown in Figure 9, a three-way switching valve 117 is used instead of the third valve 115 and the fourth valve 116. Note that Figure 9 shows a refrigeration device equipped with a first container 120 and a second container having two refrigerant inlets, as in Modified Example 1.

[0173] Specifically, the three-way switching valve 117 switches the direction of the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant passage 103. The three-way switching valve 117 is provided at the junction of the third passage 103c and the fourth passage 103d. The three-way switching valve 117 is configured to switch the refrigerant passage 103 between a first state, the flow direction shown by the solid line in Figure 9, and a second state, the flow direction shown by the dashed line in Figure 9. In the first state, the suction side of the compressor 111 is connected to the second container 130, and the suction side of the compressor 111 is connected to the second container 130. In the second state, the suction side of the compressor 111 is connected to the first container 120.

[0174] In the first state, as shown in Figure 10, the refrigerant flows in the following order: compressor 111, switching mechanism 112, first container 120, first flow path 103a, first valve 113, second container 130, second flow path 103b, fourth flow path 103d, and three-way switching valve 117. In the second state, as shown in Figure 11, the refrigerant flows in the following order: compressor 111, switching mechanism 112, second container 130, second flow path 103b, second valve 114, first container 120, first flow path 103a, third flow path 103c, and three-way switching valve 117.

[0175] (4-4) Modification 4 In the above embodiment, the first connecting portions 121a and 131a are connected to the lower ends of the cylindrical portions 121b and 131b, but are not limited to this. Preferably, the first connecting portions 121a and 131a are connected to the lower half in the vertical direction of the cylindrical portions 121b and 131b.

[0176] Furthermore, the second connecting parts 121c and 131c are connected to the upper ends of the cylindrical parts 121b and 131b, but are not limited to this. Preferably, the second connecting parts 121c and 131c are connected to the upper half in the vertical direction of the cylindrical parts 121b and 131b.

[0177] (4-5) Modification 5 In the above embodiment, the first heat recovery member 125 is located in the vertical center of the first space S1, and the second heat recovery member 135 is located in the vertical center of the second space S2, but the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0178] As shown in Figure 12, in this modified example, the first heat recovery member 125 is located below the vertical center of the first space S1, and the second heat recovery member 135 is located below the vertical center of the second space S2. In this case, the adsorbent 124 tends to accumulate at the bottom, making it easier to bring the adsorbent 124 into contact with the first heat recovery member 125 and the second heat recovery member 135.

[0179] (4-6) Modification 6 In the above embodiment, the first container 120 and the second container 130 have a shape that extends in the vertical direction, but are not limited thereto. The direction in which the first container 120 and the second container 130 extend may be inclined with respect to the vertical direction or may be horizontal. In other words, the longitudinal directions of the first casing 121 of the first container 120 and the second casing 131 of the second container 130 may be installed so that they intersect with respect to the vertical direction.

[0180] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the first connecting parts 121a, 131a and the second connecting parts 121c, 131c have a shape that extends in the vertical direction, but at least one of the first connecting parts 121a, 131a and the second connecting parts 121c, 131c may have a shape that extends in a direction inclined with respect to the vertical direction, or a shape that extends in the horizontal direction.

[0181] (4-7) Modification 7 In the above embodiment, the first heat recovery member 125 is not in contact with the first filter 122 and the second filter 123, and the second heat recovery member 135 is not in contact with the third filter 132 and the fourth filter 133, but the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0182] The first heat recovery member 125 may be in contact with at least one of the first filter 122 and the second filter 123. The second heat recovery member 135 may be in contact with at least one of the third filter 132 and the fourth filter 133. In other words, the first heat recovery member 125 may be positioned without any gap between it and at least one of the first filter 122 and the second filter 123. The second heat recovery member 135 may be positioned without any gap between it and at least one of the third filter 132 and the fourth filter 133.

[0183] (4-8) Variation 8 In the above embodiment, the first casing 121 and the second casing 131 have a single-layer structure, but are not limited to this and may have a multi-layer structure.

[0184] In this modified example, the first casing 121 and the second casing 131 have a double-layer structure. Specifically, the first casing 121 and the second casing include an inner casing and an outer casing. The inner casing and the outer casing are not in contact with each other. The first casing 121 and the second casing 131 may be entirely double-layered, or only partially double-layered.

[0185] (4-9) Modification 9 In the above embodiment, the first casing 121 and the second casing 131 have first connecting portions 121a, 131a and second connecting portions 121c, 131c, but are not limited thereto. The first casing 121 may not have at least one of the first connecting portion 121a and the second connecting portion 121c. Similarly, the second casing 131 may not have at least one of the first connecting portion 131a and the second connecting portion 131c.

[0186] In this modified example, the first casing 121 and the second casing 131 do not have the first connecting portions 121a, 131a and the second connecting portions 121c, 131c. The cylindrical portions 121b and 131b have refrigerant inlet and outlet portions formed therein.

[0187] (4-10) Modification 10 In the above embodiment, the first container 120 and the second container 130 have the same configuration, but are not limited to this. The first container 120 and the second container 130 may have different configurations.

[0188] (4-11) Torture 11 In the above embodiment, gravity is used as one of the means for moving the adsorbent 124, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the first container 120 and the second container 130 may have a mechanism for generating turbulence.

[0189] (4-12) Variation 12 In the above embodiment, the adsorbent 124 used in the refrigeration device 100 is a metal-organic structure, but is not limited to this, and materials other than metal-organic structures may be used. Examples of materials other than metal-organic structures include activated carbon, zeolite-based materials, silica-based materials, and alumina-based materials.

[0190] (4-13) Modification 13 In the above embodiment, the first heat recovery member 125 and the second heat recovery member 135 are of the cross-fin type, but are not limited to this.

[0191] The first heat recovery member 125 and the second heat recovery member 135 may be, for example, a corrugated fin type, a shell and heat transfer tube type, a double-tube type, a plate type, or the like.

[0192] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the heat transfer tubes 125a and 135a are round tubes, but they may also be flattened multi-hole tubes.

[0193] 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]

[0194] 100: Refrigeration equipment 101: Heat source side circuit 102:Using circuit 103: Refrigerant flow path 103a: First channel 103b: Second channel 103c: Third channel 103d: Fourth channel 105: Control Unit 111: Compressor 112: Switching mechanism 113: First valve 114: Second valve 115: Third valve 116: Fourth valve 120: 1st container 121: First casing 121a, 131a: First connection section 121b, 131b: Cylindrical part 121c, 131c: Second connection section 122: First filter 123: Second filter 124: Adsorbent 125: First heat recovery member 130:Second container 131: Second casing 132: Third filter 133: Fourth filter 135: Second heat recovery member S1: 1st space S2:Second space [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0195] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2023 / 0417459

Claims

1. A refrigerant flow path (103) through which the refrigerant flows, A compressor (111) for compressing the refrigerant, A first container (120) and a second container (130) are provided, each having a powdery adsorbent (124) that adsorbs and desorbs the refrigerant in response to changes in the pressure of the refrigerant, and which exchanges heat between the refrigerant and a heat transfer medium. Switching mechanism (112), Equipped with, The switching mechanism controls the refrigerant flow path, A first state in which the first container is under high pressure and the second container is under low pressure, A second state in which the first container is in a low-pressure state and the second container is in a high-pressure state, It is possible to switch between these two options. The first container is, The first casing (121) through which the refrigerant passes, A first filter (122) is disposed within the first casing, A second filter (123) is disposed within the first casing, The adsorbent is placed in a first space (S1) partitioned by the first filter and the second filter within the first casing, A first heat recovery member (125) is arranged in the first space and recovers the heat generated when the adsorbent adsorbs or desorbs the refrigerant, It has, The second container is, The second casing (131) through which the refrigerant passes, A third filter (132) is disposed within the second casing, A fourth filter (133) is placed inside the second casing, The adsorbent is placed in the second space (S2) partitioned by the third filter and the fourth filter within the second casing, A second heat recovery member (135) is arranged in the second space and recovers the heat generated when the adsorbent adsorbs or desorbs the refrigerant, It has, The first filter, the second filter, the third filter, and the fourth filter allow the refrigerant to pass through, but prevent the adsorbent from passing through, in a refrigeration apparatus (100).

2. The first casing is, The first connection part (121a) into which the refrigerant flows, A cylindrical portion (121b) that communicates with the first connecting portion and houses the adsorbent and the first heat recovery member, A second connection part (121c) is in communication with the cylindrical part and through which the refrigerant flows out, It has, The refrigerant passes through the first casing in the order of the first filter and the second filter. The refrigeration apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The first filter is located vertically below the second filter, The refrigeration apparatus according to claim 2.

4. The first connecting portion is located vertically below the second connecting portion. The refrigeration apparatus according to claim 2 or 3.

5. The first filter is positioned at the first connection point. The refrigeration apparatus according to claim 2 or 3.

6. The system further comprises a control unit (105) that controls the compressor and the switching mechanism, The control unit continues the operation of the compressor when the refrigerant flow path is switched. A refrigeration apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

7. The refrigerant flow path is A first flow path (103a) connecting the outlet of the first container and the inlet of the second container, A second flow path (103b) connects the outlet of the second container and the inlet of the first container, including, A refrigeration apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

8. A first valve (113) provided in the first flow path, A second valve (114) is provided in the second flow path, Furthermore, The refrigeration apparatus according to claim 7.

9. The refrigerant flow path is A third flow path (103c) branches off from the first flow path and is connected to the suction side of the compressor, A fourth flow path (103d) branches off from the second flow path and is connected to the suction side of the compressor, It further includes, A third valve (115) is provided in the third flow path, A fourth valve (116) is provided in the fourth flow path, Furthermore, The refrigeration apparatus according to claim 8.

10. In the first state, the first valve and the fourth valve are in the open state. In the second state, the second valve and the third valve are in the open state. The refrigeration apparatus according to claim 9.

11. 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 3.

12. 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 3.

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