Refrigeration equipment

Abstract

In a circulating refrigeration system, it is preferable that heat is efficiently recovered from the mixture of refrigerant and adsorbent. [Solution] The refrigeration system 100 has a refrigerant circuit through which a refrigerant and an adsorbent circulate. The refrigeration system 100 includes a compressor 131, a high-pressure side container 133, a low-pressure side container 134, an expansion mechanism 132, a separation section, and a confluence section 151. The high-pressure side container 133 has a first space 153 in which a first heat exchanger 133a is provided. The low-pressure side container 134 has a second space 154 in which a second heat exchanger 134a is provided. The separation section separates the refrigerant and the adsorbent. The confluence section combines the refrigerant and the adsorbent separated in the separation section. The first space 153 includes a first accumulation section 153a for accumulating adsorbent when the refrigeration system 100 is in operation. The second space 154 includes a second accumulation section 154a for accumulating adsorbent when the refrigeration system 100 is in operation. The first deposition section 153a overlaps with the first heat exchanger 133a. The second deposition section 154a overlaps with the second heat exchanger 134a.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] It relates to a refrigeration device.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as disclosed in Patent Document 1 (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2023 / 0417459), a refrigeration device having an adsorption refrigeration cycle that utilizes heat generated when a refrigerant is adsorbed and desorbed on an adsorbent such as a porous metal complex has been used. As such a refrigeration device, a circulation-type refrigeration device having a refrigerant flow path through which a mixture of a refrigerant and an adsorbent circulates is known.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] In a circulation-type refrigeration device, it is preferable that heat is efficiently recovered from a mixture of a refrigerant and an adsorbent.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] The refrigeration device of the first aspect is a refrigeration device having a refrigerant circuit in which a refrigerant and an adsorbent that adsorbs and desorbs the refrigerant according to a change in the pressure of the refrigerant circulate. The refrigeration device includes a compressor, a first container, a second container, a decompression unit, a separation unit, and a confluence unit. The first container has a first space inside which a first heat recovery unit is provided. The first heat recovery unit recovers the warm heat generated when the adsorbent adsorbs the refrigerant. The second container has a second space inside which a second heat recovery unit is provided. The second heat recovery unit recovers the cold heat generated when the adsorbent desorbs the refrigerant. The decompression unit decompresses the refrigerant. The separation unit separates the refrigerant and the adsorbent. The confluence unit combines the refrigerant separated by the separation unit and the adsorbent separated by the separation unit. The first space includes a first deposition part for storing the adsorbent during the operation of the refrigeration device. The second space includes a second deposition part for storing the adsorbent during the operation of the refrigeration device. The first deposition part overlaps with the first heat recovery unit. The second deposition part overlaps with the second heat recovery unit.

[0005] The refrigeration system described in the first aspect can efficiently recover heat from a mixture of refrigerant and adsorbent.

[0006] The refrigeration apparatus of the second aspect is the refrigeration apparatus of the first aspect, wherein the separation section includes a third container and a fourth container. The third container has a first inlet, a first outlet, and a second outlet. The first inlet is connected to the confluence section. The first outlet is connected to the pressure reduction section. The second outlet is connected to the first container. The fourth container has a second inlet, a third outlet, and a fourth outlet. The second inlet is connected to the first container. The third outlet is connected to the suction side of the compressor. The fourth outlet is connected to the second container.

[0007] The refrigeration apparatus according to the second perspective includes a third and fourth container, separate from the first container from which heat is recovered and the second container from which cold energy is recovered, as a separation unit for separating the refrigerant and the adsorbent. This allows the refrigeration apparatus according to the second perspective to efficiently separate the refrigerant and the adsorbent.

[0008] The refrigeration system of the third aspect is a refrigeration system of the first or second aspect, further comprising a control unit for controlling the refrigerant circuit. The control unit controls the height position of the upper end of the first accumulation section to be the same as the height position of the upper end of the first heat recovery section, or higher than the height position of the upper end of the first heat recovery section. The control unit also controls the height position of the upper end of the second accumulation section to be the same as the height position of the upper end of the second heat recovery section, or higher than the height position of the upper end of the second heat recovery section.

[0009] The third type of refrigeration apparatus can efficiently recover and utilize heat from a mixed fluid, which is a mixture of refrigerant and adsorbent, by controlling the height of the upper ends of the first and second deposit sections.

[0010] The refrigeration apparatus of the fourth perspective is the refrigeration apparatus of the third perspective, wherein the control unit controls the entire upper surface of the first deposit section to be located above the first heat recovery section. The control unit also controls the entire upper surface of the second deposit section to be located above the second heat recovery section.

[0011] The refrigeration apparatus of the fifth aspect is the refrigeration apparatus of the first aspect, wherein the first container has a separation section in the first space, and the second container has a separation section in the second space. The first container has a first inlet, a first outlet, and a second outlet. The first inlet is connected to a junction. The first outlet is connected to a pressure reduction section. The second outlet is connected to the second container. The second container has a second inlet, a third outlet, and a fourth outlet. The second inlet is connected to the second outlet. The third outlet is connected to the suction side of the compressor. The fourth outlet is connected to a junction.

[0012] The fifth type of refrigeration system can efficiently recover heat from a mixture of refrigerant and adsorbent.

[0013] The refrigeration system of the sixth aspect is a refrigeration system of the first or fifth aspect, further comprising a control unit for controlling the refrigerant circuit. The control unit controls the height position of the upper end of the first accumulation section to be the same as the height position of the upper end of the first heat recovery section, or higher than the height position of the upper end of the first heat recovery section. The control unit also controls the height position of the upper end of the second accumulation section to be the same as the height position of the upper end of the second heat recovery section, or higher than the height position of the upper end of the second heat recovery section.

[0014] The refrigeration apparatus in the sixth aspect can efficiently recover and utilize heat from the mixed fluid, which is a mixture of refrigerant and adsorbent, by controlling the height position of the upper ends of the first and second deposit sections.

[0015] The refrigeration apparatus of the seventh aspect is the refrigeration apparatus of the sixth aspect, wherein the control unit controls the height position of the upper end of the first accumulation section to be lower than the height position of the lower end of the first outlet. The control unit also controls the height position of the upper end of the second accumulation section to be lower than the height position of the lower end of the third outlet.

[0016] The refrigeration apparatus of the eighth aspect is a refrigeration apparatus of any one of the first to seventh aspects, wherein the first heat recovery unit has a first flow path through which a heat transfer medium for recovering thermal energy flows, and the second heat recovery unit has a second flow path through which a heat transfer medium for recovering cold energy flows.

[0017] The refrigeration apparatus of the ninth aspect is the refrigeration apparatus of the eighth aspect, wherein the first flow path has a flow path through which the heat transfer medium flows in the direction opposite to the flow direction of the adsorbent in the first space. The second flow path has a flow path through which the heat transfer medium flows in the direction opposite to the flow direction of the adsorbent in the second space.

[0018] The refrigeration system of the ninth aspect allows for efficient heat exchange between the adsorbent and the refrigerant in the first heat recovery section and the second heat recovery section.

[0019] The refrigeration apparatus of the tenth aspect is a refrigeration apparatus of any one of the first to ninth aspects, further comprising a detection unit. The detection unit detects the amount of adsorbent accumulated in the first or second accumulation section.

[0020] The refrigeration apparatus according to the tenth perspective can acquire the amount of adsorbent accumulated in the first and second containers using a detection unit. As a result, the refrigeration apparatus according to the tenth perspective can efficiently recover and utilize heat from the mixed fluid, which is a mixture of refrigerant and adsorbent, by controlling the height position of the upper ends of the first and second accumulation sections.

[0021] The refrigeration apparatus of the 11th perspective is the refrigeration apparatus of the 10th perspective, and the detection unit is a temperature sensor.

[0022] The refrigeration apparatus of the twelfth aspect is the refrigeration apparatus of the tenth aspect, wherein the detection unit is a float switch mechanism. The float switch mechanism has a float configured to move in a predetermined direction in response to a change in the amount of adsorbent accumulated in the first or second accumulation section.

[0023] The refrigeration apparatus of the 13th aspect is a refrigeration apparatus of any one of the first to 12 aspects, wherein the adsorbent includes a metal-organic structure containing metal ions and an organic ligand.

[0024] A refrigeration apparatus of the 14th aspect is a refrigeration apparatus of any one of the first to 13 aspects, wherein the refrigerant includes at least one of carbon dioxide, hydrocarbons, ammonia, water, HFCs, and HFOs. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0025] [Figure 1] It is a conceptual diagram of a refrigeration device equipped with a cyclic refrigeration cycle. [Figure 2] It is a graph showing the relationship between the adsorption amount of the adsorbent and the pressure of the refrigerant. [Figure 3] It is a graph showing the relationship between the adsorption amount of the adsorbent and the enthalpy of the refrigerant. [Figure 4] It is a schematic diagram of the refrigeration device 100 of the first embodiment. [Figure 5] It is a schematic diagram of the confluence part 151 of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] It is a block diagram of the refrigeration device 100 of the first embodiment. [Figure 7] It is a schematic diagram of the high-pressure side container 133 of the first embodiment. [Figure 8] It is a schematic diagram of the low-pressure side container 134 of the first embodiment. [Figure 9] It is a schematic diagram of the refrigeration device 200 of the second embodiment. [Figure 10] It is a block diagram of the refrigeration device 200 of the second embodiment. [Figure 11] It is a schematic diagram of the high-pressure side container 233 of the second embodiment. [Figure 12] It is a schematic diagram of the low-pressure side container 234 of the second embodiment. [Figure 13] It is a schematic diagram of the high-pressure side container 133 of Modifications D and E. [Figure 14] It is a schematic diagram of the refrigeration device 100' of Modification F. [Figure 15] It is a schematic diagram of the refrigeration device 200' of Modification F.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0026] (1) Outline of the refrigeration cycle The refrigeration system of this embodiment includes a refrigeration cycle that utilizes the heat generated when the adsorbent adsorbs a refrigerant and when the adsorbent desorbs a refrigerant. The refrigeration system is, for example, an air conditioning system. The adsorbent is a powder of an adsorbent material.

[0027] The refrigeration system of this embodiment is a circulating type refrigeration system in which an adsorbent and a refrigerant circulate. As shown in Figure 1, the circulating type refrigeration system 1 includes a refrigerant circuit 11 through which the refrigerant circulates, and an adsorption circuit 12 through which the adsorbent circulates. In Figure 1, the refrigerant circuit 11 and the adsorption circuit 12 are described as separate circuits. The refrigeration system 1 may also have a configuration in which the refrigerant circuit 11 and the adsorption circuit 12 merge into a flow path. In this case, the refrigeration system 1 is part of the refrigerant circuit 11 and the adsorption circuit 12 and has a flow path through which a mixture of the refrigerant and the adsorbent circulates. Alternatively, the refrigeration system 1 may have only one circuit through which a mixture of the refrigerant and the adsorbent circulates.

[0028] The refrigeration device 1 has an adsorption section 21 and a desorption section 22. Both the adsorption section 21 and the desorption section 22 include a part of the refrigerant circuit 11 and a part of the adsorption circuit 12. In the adsorption section 21, the refrigerant from the refrigerant circuit 11 is adsorbed onto the adsorbent material flowing through the adsorption circuit 12. In the desorption section 22, the refrigerant adsorbed in the adsorption section 21 is desorbed from the adsorbent material flowing through the adsorption circuit 12.

[0029] The refrigerant circuit 11 includes a compressor 31 and an expansion mechanism 32. The compressor 31 compresses the refrigerant circulating within the refrigerant circuit 11. The expansion mechanism 32 reduces the pressure of the refrigerant circulating within the refrigerant circuit 11. The compressor 31 is, for example, a rotary compressor. The expansion mechanism 32 is, for example, an electronic expansion valve. In the refrigerant circuit 11, the refrigerant is compressed by the compressor 31, passes through the adsorption section 21, reduced in pressure by the expansion mechanism 32, passes through the desorption section 22, and is compressed again by the compressor 31.

[0030] The refrigerant circuit 11 has a high-pressure region and a low-pressure region. In the high-pressure region, the refrigerant flows after being compressed by the compressor 31 and before being depressurized by the expansion mechanism 32. In the low-pressure region, the refrigerant flows after being depressurized by the expansion mechanism 32 and before being compressed by the compressor 31. The high-pressure region is included in the adsorption section 21. The low-pressure region is included in the desorption section 22.

[0031] The refrigerant circulating within the refrigerant circuit 11 includes at least one of carbon dioxide, hydrocarbons, ammonia, water, HFCs (hydrofluorocarbons), and HFOs (hydrofluoroolefins). The hydrocarbons are selected from the group consisting of, for example, propane, butane, and isobutane.

[0032] The adsorption circuit 12 includes a booster 41 and a pressure reducer 42. The booster 41 transports the adsorbent material to the adsorption section 21 in the adsorption circuit 12. The pressure reducer 42 transports the adsorbent material to the attachment / detachment section 22 in the adsorption circuit 12. The booster 41 is, for example, a powder pump. The pressure reducer 42 is, for example, a powder valve. In the adsorption circuit 12, the adsorbent material passes through the adsorption section 21 via the booster 41 and through the attachment / detachment section 22 via the pressure reducer 42.

[0033] The adsorption circuit 12 may further include a heat exchanger 43. The heat exchanger 43 performs heat exchange between the upstream side of the booster 41 and the upstream side of the depressurizer 42. The heat exchanger 43 transfers a portion of the heat from the adsorbent flowing between the adsorption section 21 and the depressurizer 42 to the adsorbent flowing between the desorption section 22 and the booster 41.

[0034] The adsorbent circulating in the adsorption circuit 12 includes a metal-organic framework containing metal ions and organic ligands. A metal-organic framework (MOF) is a porous material with a very large specific surface area obtained by the reaction of metal ions and organic ligands. In a metal-organic framework, the organic ligands link with the metal ions to obtain a polymeric structure with countless openings inside. The opening diameter and topology of the metal-organic framework can be adjusted by selecting and combining metal ions and organic ligands. By selecting and combining metal ions and organic ligands, the opening diameter of the metal-organic framework can be adjusted, enabling selective adsorption of 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. In this embodiment, the metal-organic framework is used as an adsorbent for adsorbing and desorbing a refrigerant. Examples of metal-organic frameworks include MOF-5, MOF-200, UiO-66, and MIL-101. The adsorbent is, for example, a powder of a metal-organic structure.

[0035] (2) Operation of refrigeration unit 1 The operation of the circulating refrigeration system 1 will be explained with reference to the drawings. The adsorbent adsorbs and desorbs the refrigerant circulating in the refrigerant circuit 11. The adsorbent adsorbs and desorbs the refrigerant in response to changes in the pressure of the refrigerant circulating in the refrigerant circuit 11. Specifically, the adsorbent adsorbs the refrigerant under high pressure and desorbs the refrigerant under low pressure.

[0036] Assume that the high-pressure region of the refrigerant circuit 11 is filled with refrigerant at pressure pH and temperature TH. Assume that the low-pressure region of the refrigerant circuit 11 is filled with refrigerant at pressure pL and temperature TL. Pressure pH is higher than pressure pL. Temperature TH is higher than temperature TL. The adsorbent adsorbs refrigerant in the high-pressure region of the refrigerant circuit 11. The adsorbent desorbs refrigerant in the low-pressure region of the refrigerant circuit 11. In the adsorption section 21, the refrigerant flowing in the high-pressure region of the refrigerant circuit 11 is adsorbed onto the adsorbent of the adsorption circuit 12. In the desorption section 22, the refrigerant is desorbed from the adsorbent flowing through the adsorption circuit 12.

[0037] The operation of the heat pump cycle of refrigeration system 1 will be explained with reference to Figure 1-3. Figure 1-3 shows the refrigerant cycle a→b→c→d→a in the refrigerant circuit 11, and the adsorbent cycle a'→b'→c'→d'→a' in the adsorption circuit 12. The graph in Figure 2 shows the adsorption amount, which is the mass of refrigerant adsorbed on the adsorbent per unit mass, and the change in the pressure of the refrigerant adsorbed on the adsorbent, in the heat pump cycle. The graph in Figure 3 shows the adsorption amount of the adsorbent and the change in the enthalpy of the refrigerant adsorbed on the adsorbent, in the heat pump cycle. In refrigeration system 1, it is assumed that heat can flow freely between the refrigerant circuit 11 and the adsorption circuit 12.

[0038] In the refrigerant circuit 11, the refrigerant is compressed by the compressor 31 (a→b). In the adsorption circuit 12, the adsorbent is circulated using the booster 41 (a'→b'). As a result, the pressure of the refrigerant increases from pL to pH. During this process, some of the heat Q1 generated by the adiabatic compression of the refrigerant is transferred to the adsorbent. In other words, the refrigerant is cooled by transferring heat to the adsorbent while being compressed. As a result, the temperature of the adsorbent rises from TL to TH.

[0039] Next, in the adsorption section 21, the refrigerant is gradually adsorbed onto the adsorbent while releasing heat Q2 (b'→c'). During this process, the amount of adsorption on the adsorbent increases from mL to mH. As a result, in the adsorption section 21, the refrigerant from the refrigerant circuit 11 is adsorbed onto the adsorbent of the adsorption circuit 12. In Figure 1, as indicated by the hatched arrows within the adsorption section 21, the refrigerant from the refrigerant circuit 11 is adsorbed onto the adsorbent circulating in the adsorption circuit 12.

[0040] Next, in the refrigerant circuit 11, the refrigerant is depressurized by the expansion mechanism 32 (c→d). In the adsorption circuit 12, the adsorbent is circulated by the pressure reducer 42 (c'→d'). As a result, the refrigerant pressure decreases from pH to pL. During this process, the temperature of the adsorbent decreases from TH to TL due to the isenthalpic expansion of the refrigerant desorbed from the adsorbent. Also, due to the temperature difference between the refrigerant and the adsorbent, the adsorbent in the adsorption circuit 12 is cooled, transferring heat Q3 to the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit 11. Furthermore, heat Q5 is transferred from the adsorbent before it passes through the pressure reducer 42 to the adsorbent before it passes through the pressure booster 41 by the heat exchanger 43.

[0041] Next, in the desorption section 22, the refrigerant is gradually desorbed from the adsorbent while absorbing heat Q4 (d'→a'). During this process, the amount of adsorbed material decreases from mH to mL. As a result, the refrigerant adsorbed on the adsorbent in the adsorption circuit 12 is desorbed. In Figure 1, as indicated by the hatched arrows within the desorption section 22, the refrigerant is desorbed from the adsorbent in the adsorption circuit 12 in the desorption section 22.

[0042] As shown in Figure 2, during the adsorption process (b'→c') in which the refrigerant is adsorbed onto the adsorbent, the pressure of the refrigerant is pH, and the amount of adsorbed by the adsorbent increases from mL to mH. During the desorption process (d'→a') in which the refrigerant is desorbed from the adsorbent, the pressure of the refrigerant is pL, and the amount of adsorbed by the adsorbent decreases from mH to mL. As shown in Figure 3, during the adsorption process, the enthalpy decreases by Δh1. During the desorption process, the enthalpy increases by Δh2. During the adsorption process, the heat Q2 released from the adsorption part 21 is proportional to Δh1. During the desorption process, the heat Q4 absorbed by the desorption part 22 is proportional to Δh2.

[0043] In the refrigeration device 1, heat Q2 is released in the adsorption section 21 (first heat recovery section), generating warmth, and heat Q4 is absorbed in the desorption section 22 (second heat recovery section), generating cold energy. When the warmth generated in the adsorption section 21 is recovered by another heat transfer medium, the temperature of that heat transfer medium rises. When the cold energy generated in the desorption section 22 is recovered by another heat transfer medium, the temperature of that heat transfer medium decreases.

[0044] (3) Detailed configuration (3-1) First Embodiment (3-1-1) Configuration of the refrigeration system 100 The refrigeration system 100 of the first embodiment includes a refrigerant flow path 111 through which the refrigerant circulates, as shown in Figure 4. The refrigerant flow path 111 has the functions of both the refrigerant circuit 11 and the adsorption circuit 12 in Figure 1. The adsorbent circulates within the refrigerant flow path 111 together with the refrigerant. In other words, in the refrigeration system 100, a mixture of the refrigerant and the adsorbent (hereinafter referred to as the "mixed fluid") flows within the refrigerant flow path 111.

[0045] The refrigeration system 100 includes a compressor 131, an expansion mechanism 132, a high-pressure side container 133 (first container), a low-pressure side container 134 (second container), a high-pressure side separator 141 (third container), a low-pressure side separator 142 (fourth container), and a confluence section 151. The refrigeration system 100 may further include a first utilization section 136, a second utilization section 137, a first control valve 161, and a second control valve 162.

[0046] The compressor 131 has the function of the compressor 31 in Figure 1. The expansion mechanism 132 has the function of the expansion mechanism 32 in Figure 1. The expansion mechanism 132 has the function of adjusting the amount of mixed fluid passing through the refrigerant passage 111 by adjusting the opening degree. The expansion mechanism 132 is an example of a pressure reducing section, for example, an electronic expansion valve.

[0047] The high-pressure side container 133 is a container having a first space 153 inside. The first space 153 consists of a first accumulation section 153a and a first retention section 153b. The first accumulation section 153a is a space that includes the bottom of the first space 153. The first accumulation section 153a is a space where adsorbent is accumulated when the refrigeration system 100 is in operation. A mixed fluid with a high adsorbent content may be accumulated in the first accumulation section 153a. The first retention section 153b is a space located above the first accumulation section 153a. The first retention section 153b is a space where refrigerant is accumulated when the refrigeration system 100 is in operation. A mixed fluid with a high refrigerant content may be accumulated in the first retention section 153b. The adsorbent content in the first accumulation section 153a is lower than the adsorbent content in the first retention section 153b. The amount of adsorbent per unit area in the first deposition section 153a is less than the amount of adsorbent per unit area in the first retention section 153b.

[0048] The high-pressure side container 133 has a high-pressure side outlet 133c and a high-pressure side inlet 133d. The high-pressure side outlet 133c is provided, for example, at the bottom of the high-pressure side container 133. The high-pressure side outlet 133c communicates with the first accumulation section 153a. The high-pressure side inlet 133d is provided, for example, at the top of the high-pressure side container 133. The high-pressure side inlet 133d communicates with the first retention section 153b.

[0049] A first heat exchanger 133a is provided in the first space 153. The first heat exchanger 133a is, for example, a fin-tube type heat exchanger. The first heat exchanger 133a has a first flow path 133b through which a heat transfer medium flows. The first flow path 133b is connected to the first utilization unit 136. During operation of the refrigeration system 100, in the first space 153, the refrigerant is adsorbed onto the adsorbent, generating heat of adsorption, which is thermal energy. The thermal energy generated in the first space 153 is recovered by the heat transfer medium flowing through the first flow path 133b. The heat transfer medium from which the thermal energy has been recovered is sent to the first utilization unit 136 for use.

[0050] The low-pressure side container 134 is a container having a second space 154 inside. The second space 154 consists of a second accumulation section 154a and a second retention section 154b. The second accumulation section 154a is a space that includes the bottom of the second space 154. The second accumulation section 154a is a space where adsorbent accumulates when the refrigeration system 100 is in operation. A mixed fluid with a high adsorbent content may accumulate in the second accumulation section 154a. The second retention section 154b is a space located above the second accumulation section 154a. The second retention section 154b is a space where refrigerant accumulates when the refrigeration system 100 is in operation. A mixed fluid with a high refrigerant content may accumulate in the second retention section 154b. The adsorbent content in the second accumulation section 154a is lower than the adsorbent content in the second retention section 154b. The amount of adsorbent per unit area in the second deposition section 154a is less than the amount of adsorbent per unit area in the second retention section 154b.

[0051] The low-pressure side container 134 has a low-pressure side outlet 134c and a low-pressure side inlet 134d. The low-pressure side outlet 134c is provided, for example, at the bottom of the low-pressure side container 134. The low-pressure side outlet 134c communicates with the second accumulation section 154a. The low-pressure side inlet 134d is provided, for example, at the top of the low-pressure side container 134. The low-pressure side inlet 134d communicates with the second retention section 154b.

[0052] A second heat exchanger 134a is provided in the second space 154. The second heat exchanger 134a is, for example, a fin-tube type heat exchanger. The second heat exchanger 134a has a second flow path 134b through which a heat transfer medium flows. The second flow path 134b is connected to the second utilization unit 137. During operation of the refrigeration system 100, in the second space 154, the refrigerant desorbs from the adsorbent, generating heat of desorption, which is cold energy. The cold energy generated in the second space 154 is recovered by the heat transfer medium flowing through the second flow path 134b. The heat transfer medium from which the cold energy has been recovered is sent to the second utilization unit 137 for use.

[0053] The high-pressure separator 141 separates the high-pressure mixed fluid in the refrigerant flow path 111 into high-pressure refrigerant and adsorbent. In the high-pressure separator 141, the mixed fluid may be separated into a mixed fluid with a high refrigerant content and a mixed fluid with a high adsorbent content. In this case, the mixed fluid with a high refrigerant content refers to a mixed fluid with a higher refrigerant content than the mixed fluid flowing in from the first inlet 141a, which will be described later. Similarly, the mixed fluid with a high adsorbent content refers to a mixed fluid with a higher adsorbent content than the mixed fluid flowing in from the first inlet 141a. The high-pressure separator 141 is, for example, a container having a mechanism for centrifuging the adsorbent by swirling the mixed fluid inside.

[0054] The high-pressure side separator 141 has a first inlet 141a, a first outlet 141b, and a second outlet 141c. The first inlet 141a is provided, for example, at the top of the high-pressure side separator 141. The first outlet 141b is provided, for example, at the top of the high-pressure side separator 141. The second outlet 141c is provided, for example, at the bottom of the high-pressure side separator 141. The first inlet 141a is connected to the confluence section 151. The first outlet 141b is connected to the expansion mechanism 132. The second outlet 141c is connected to the high-pressure side container 133. High-pressure mixed fluid flows into the first inlet 141a. High-pressure refrigerant separated by the high-pressure side separator 141, or mixed fluid with a high refrigerant content, flows out from the first outlet 141b. From the second outlet 141c, mainly the adsorbent separated by the high-pressure separator 141, or a mixed fluid with a high adsorbent content, flows out.

[0055] The low-pressure separator 142 separates the low-pressure mixed refrigerant in the refrigerant flow path 111 into low-pressure refrigerant and adsorbent. In the low-pressure separator 142, the mixed fluid may be separated into a mixed fluid with a high refrigerant content and a mixed fluid with a high adsorbent content. In this case, the mixed fluid with a high refrigerant content refers to a mixed fluid with a higher refrigerant content than the mixed fluid flowing in from the second inlet 142a, which will be described later. Similarly, the mixed fluid with a high adsorbent content refers to a mixed fluid with a higher adsorbent content than the mixed fluid flowing in from the second inlet 142a. The low-pressure separator 142 is, for example, a container having a mechanism for centrifuging the adsorbent by swirling the mixed fluid inside.

[0056] The low-pressure side separator 142 has a second inlet 142a, a third outlet 142b, and a fourth outlet 142c. The second inlet 142a is provided, for example, at the top of the low-pressure side separator 142. The third outlet 142b is provided, for example, at the top of the low-pressure side separator 142. The fourth outlet 142c is provided, for example, at the bottom of the low-pressure side separator 142. The second inlet 142a is connected to the high-pressure side container 133. The third outlet 142b is connected to the suction side of the compressor 131. The fourth outlet 142c is connected to the low-pressure side container 134. Adsorbent and refrigerant flowing out from the high-pressure side outlet 133c of the high-pressure side container 133 flow into the second inlet 142a. From the third outlet 142b, mainly low-pressure refrigerant separated by the low-pressure separator 142, or a mixed fluid with a high refrigerant content, flows out. From the fourth outlet 142c, mainly adsorbent separated by the low-pressure separator 142, or a mixed fluid with a high adsorbent content, flows out.

[0057] The refrigerant flow path 111 includes a first pipe 111a, a second pipe 111b, a third pipe 111c, a fourth pipe 111d, a fifth pipe 111e, a sixth pipe 111f, a seventh pipe 111g, and an eighth pipe 111h.

[0058] The first pipe 111a connects the high-pressure side outlet 133c of the high-pressure side container 133 to the second inlet 142a of the low-pressure side separator 142. The first pipe 111a is equipped with a second control valve 162. The second pipe 111b connects the low-pressure side outlet 134c of the low-pressure side container 134 to the junction 151. The second pipe 111b is equipped with a first control valve 161. The third pipe 111c connects the discharge side of the compressor 131 to the junction 151. The fourth pipe 111d connects the junction 151 to the first inlet 141a of the high-pressure side separator 141. The fifth pipe 111e connects the third outlet 142b of the low-pressure side separator 142 to the suction side of the compressor 131. The sixth pipe 111f connects the first outlet 141b of the high-pressure side separator 141 to the fifth pipe 111e. An expansion mechanism 132 is provided in the sixth pipe 111f. The seventh pipe 111g connects the second outlet 141c of the high-pressure side separator 141 to the high-pressure side inlet 133d of the high-pressure side container 133. The eighth pipe 111h connects the fourth outlet 142c of the low-pressure side separator 142 to the low-pressure side inlet 134d of the low-pressure side container 134.

[0059] The confluence section 151 is a mechanism for combining the refrigerant separated by the high-pressure side separator 141 and the low-pressure side separator 142 and compressed by the compressor 131, with the adsorbent accumulated in the second accumulation section 154a of the low-pressure side container 134.

[0060] The confluence section 151 is, for example, an ejector mechanism. In this case, the confluence section 151 is configured to draw in an adsorbent by ejecting a refrigerant and causing it to expand under reduced pressure, and then mix the drawn adsorbent with the ejected refrigerant. When the confluence section 151 is an ejector mechanism, the orientation of the confluence section 151 is not particularly limited.

[0061] The ejector mechanism, the confluence section 151, as shown in Figure 5, comprises a casing 151a, a nozzle 151b, a suction chamber 151c, a mixing section 151d, and a diffuser section 151e. The nozzle 151b is mounted on the casing 151a.

[0062] Nozzle 151b is connected to the third pipe 111c. The high-pressure refrigerant compressed by the compressor 131 flows through the third pipe 111c and into the internal flow path 151f of nozzle 151b.

[0063] The suction chamber 151c is formed inside the casing 151a. The suction chamber 151c is connected to the second pipe 111b. The adsorbent material accumulated in the second deposit section 154a of the low-pressure side container 134 flows through the second pipe 111b and into the suction chamber 151c.

[0064] The mixing section 151d is formed inside the casing 151a. The mixing section 151d communicates with the internal flow path 151f and the suction chamber 151c. The mixing section 151d is a space where the refrigerant and the adsorbent merge to generate a mixed fluid.

[0065] The diffuser section 151e is formed inside the casing 151a. The diffuser section 151e is connected to the fourth pipe 111d. The diffuser section 151e communicates with the mixing section 151d. The mixed fluid generated in the mixing section 151d passes through the diffuser section 151e and flows into the fourth pipe 111d.

[0066] In the internal flow path 151f, the pressure energy of the refrigerant is converted into kinetic energy. Therefore, the nozzle 151b has the function of reducing the pressure of the refrigerant. As the pressure of the refrigerant flowing through the internal flow path 151f decreases, the refrigerant is ejected from the nozzle 151b to the mixing section 151d. The ejection of the refrigerant from the nozzle 151b to the mixing section 151d causes the adsorbent to be drawn from the suction chamber 151c to the mixing section 151d. As a result, in the mixing section 151d, the refrigerant and the adsorbent merge to form a mixed fluid, which is supplied to the diffuser section 151e. In the diffuser section 151e, the kinetic energy of the mixed fluid is converted into pressure energy. Therefore, the pressure of the mixed fluid increases in the diffuser section 151e.

[0067] The first control valve 161 is provided between the low-pressure side container 134 and the confluence 151. The first control valve 161 adjusts the amount of adsorbent flowing from the low-pressure side container 134 to the confluence 151. The first control valve 161 has the function of adjusting the amount of adsorbent flowing through the second pipe 111b. The first control valve 161 is, for example, a powder valve with adjustable opening. The second pipe 111b may contain adsorbent, or it may contain a mixed fluid which is a mixture of adsorbent and a small amount of refrigerant. The adsorbent content of the mixed fluid flowing through the second pipe 111b is higher than the adsorbent content of the mixed fluid circulating through the refrigerant flow path 111 (for example, the mixed fluid flowing through the fourth pipe 111d).

[0068] When the first control valve 161 is open, the adsorbent material accumulated in the second accumulation section 154a of the low-pressure side container 134 falls through the inside of the second pipe 111b due to gravity and is supplied to the suction chamber 151c of the confluence section 151. For example, the confluence section 151 is located below the low-pressure side container 134. In order for the adsorbent material to fall through the inside of the second pipe 111b due to gravity, the angle between the direction in which the second pipe 111b extends and the vertical direction is preferably 30° or less.

[0069] The second control valve 162 is installed between the high-pressure side container 133 and the low-pressure side separator 142. The second control valve 162 adjusts the amount of adsorbent flowing from the high-pressure side container 133 to the low-pressure side separator 142. The second control valve 162 has the function of adjusting the amount of adsorbent flowing through the first piping 111a. The second control valve 162 is, for example, a powder valve whose opening degree can be adjusted. A mixed fluid, which is a mixture of adsorbent and a small amount of refrigerant, flows through the first piping 111a. The adsorbent content of the mixed fluid flowing through the first piping 111a is higher than the adsorbent content of the mixed fluid circulating through the refrigerant flow path 111.

[0070] The high-pressure side container 133 and the low-pressure side separator 142 may be arranged such that, when the second control valve 162 is open, the adsorbent accumulated in the first accumulation section 153a of the high-pressure side container 133 falls through the inside of the first pipe 111a by gravity and is supplied to the low-pressure side separator 142. For example, the low-pressure side separator 142 is positioned below the high-pressure side container 133. Preferably, the angle between the direction in which the first pipe 111a extends and the vertical direction is 30° or less in order for the adsorbent to fall through the inside of the first pipe 111a by gravity.

[0071] The high-pressure refrigerant flowing out from the first outlet 141b of the high-pressure side separator 141 flows through the sixth pipe 111f, is depressurized by the expansion mechanism 132, and flows into the fifth pipe 111e. The adsorbent in the first deposit section 153a of the high-pressure side container 133 passes through the second control valve 162 together with the high-pressure refrigerant. The high-pressure refrigerant is depressurized as it passes through the second control valve 162 and flows into the low-pressure side separator 142. The fifth pipe 111e, which is connected to the low-pressure side separator 142, is connected to the sixth pipe 111f through which the refrigerant depressurized by the expansion mechanism 132 flows. Therefore, during operation of the refrigeration system 100, the pressure in the internal space of the low-pressure side separator 142 is lower than the pressure in the internal space of the high-pressure side separator 141. The internal space of the high-pressure side separator 141 is in communication with the first space 153 of the high-pressure side container 133 via the seventh pipe 111g. The internal space of the low-pressure separator 142 is in communication with the second space 154 of the low-pressure vessel 134 via the eighth pipe 111h. Therefore, during operation of the refrigeration system 100, the pressure in the second space 154 of the low-pressure vessel 134 is lower than the pressure in the first space 153 of the high-pressure vessel 133. Consequently, during operation of the refrigeration system 100, the pressure in the first space 153 of the high-pressure vessel 133 is higher than the pressure in the internal space of the low-pressure separator 142. When the opening of the second control valve 162 is not zero, the adsorbent accumulated in the first deposit section 153a of the high-pressure vessel 133 flows through the first pipe 111a due to the pressure difference and is supplied to the low-pressure separator 142.

[0072] The refrigeration system 100 further includes a control unit 105. The control unit 105 controls the operation of each component 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), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), and a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). The processor reads various programs of the device into memory and executes them. The processor loads the programs stored in memory into the working area of ​​the memory and executes them, and by controlling each component through the execution of the programs, it realizes functions that match a predetermined purpose.

[0073] As shown in Figure 6, the control unit 105 controls the compressor 131, the expansion mechanism 132, the first control valve 161, and the second control valve 162. The control unit 105 controls the rotational speed of the compressor 131. The control unit 105 controls the timing for starting the compressor 131 and the timing for stopping the compressor 131. The control unit 105 controls the opening degree of the expansion mechanism 132. The control unit 105 controls the opening degree of the first control valve 161. The control unit 105 controls the opening degree of the second control valve 162.

[0074] (3-1-2) Operation of the refrigeration unit 100 The refrigeration system 100 includes a first utilization section 136 that utilizes the heat generated in the high-pressure side container 133, and a second utilization section 137 that utilizes the cold heat generated in the low-pressure side container 134. When the refrigeration system 100 is an air conditioning system, the first utilization section 136 is used during heating operation, and the second utilization section 137 is used during cooling operation. Next, the flow of refrigerant and adsorbent circulating in the refrigerant flow path 111 during operation of the refrigeration system 100 will be described.

[0075] The high-pressure mixed fluid that flows into the high-pressure separator 141 from the first inlet 141a is separated into refrigerant and adsorbent. The high-pressure refrigerant separated in the high-pressure separator 141 flows into the sixth pipe 111f from the first outlet 141b and is depressurized by the expansion mechanism 132. The refrigerant depressurized by the expansion mechanism 132 flows through the fifth pipe 111e, is compressed by the compressor 131, and then flows through the third pipe 111c to be supplied to the junction 151. The adsorbent separated in the high-pressure separator 141, along with some of the separated high-pressure refrigerant, flows into the seventh pipe 111g from the second outlet 141c and into the high-pressure container 133 from the high-pressure inlet 133d. The adsorbent that flowed in from the high-pressure inlet 133d accumulates in the first accumulation section 153a of the high-pressure container 133. The first retention section 153b of the high-pressure side container 133 is where the high-pressure refrigerant flowing in from the high-pressure side inlet 133d accumulates.

[0076] In the first space 153 of the high-pressure side container 133, the adsorbent adsorbs the refrigerant, generating heat of adsorption (thermal heat). The thermal heat generated in the first space 153 is recovered by the heat transfer medium flowing through the first channel 133b of the first heat exchanger 133a. The first utilization unit 136 utilizes the thermal heat recovered by the heat transfer medium.

[0077] The adsorbent material, which has adsorbed refrigerant and is deposited in the first deposit section 153a of the high-pressure side container 133, flows into the first piping 111a from the high-pressure side outlet 133c along with the high-pressure refrigerant and passes through the second control valve 162. The refrigerant is depressurized as it passes through the second control valve 162. The mixed fluid that has passed through the second control valve 162 flows into the low-pressure side separator 142 from the second inlet 142a.

[0078] The low-pressure mixed fluid that flows into the low-pressure separator 142 from the second inlet 142a is separated into refrigerant and adsorbent. The low-pressure refrigerant separated in the low-pressure separator 142 flows into the fifth pipe 111e from the third outlet 142b, flows through the fifth pipe 111e and is compressed by the compressor 131, and then flows through the third pipe 111c and is supplied to the junction 151. The adsorbent separated in the low-pressure separator 142, along with some of the separated low-pressure refrigerant, flows into the eighth pipe 111h from the fourth outlet 142c and flows into the low-pressure container 134 from the low-pressure inlet 134d. The adsorbent that flowed in from the low-pressure inlet 134d accumulates in the second accumulation section 154a of the low-pressure container 134. Low-pressure refrigerant that flows in from the low-pressure inlet 134d accumulates in the second retention section 154b of the low-pressure side container 134.

[0079] In the second space 154 of the low-pressure side container 134, the adsorbent desorbs the refrigerant, generating desorption heat (cold energy). The cold energy generated in the second space 154 is recovered by the heat transfer medium flowing through the second channel 134b of the second heat exchanger 134a. The second utilization unit 137 utilizes the cold energy recovered by the heat transfer medium.

[0080] The adsorbent material, from which the refrigerant has been desorbed and deposited, accumulates in the second accumulation section 154a of the low-pressure side container 134. Together with the low-pressure refrigerant, it flows into the second piping 111b from the low-pressure side outlet 134c and passes through the first control valve 161. The adsorbent material that has passed through the first control valve 161 is supplied to the confluence section 151.

[0081] At the junction 151, the refrigerant flowing through the third pipe 111c and the adsorbent flowing through the second pipe 111b merge to generate a high-pressure mixed fluid. The high-pressure mixed fluid generated at the junction 151 flows through the fourth pipe 111d and enters the high-pressure separator 141 from the first inlet 141a.

[0082] Most of the refrigerant and some of the adsorbent circulate through the compressor 131, the confluence section 151, the high-pressure side separator 141, the expansion mechanism 132, and the compressor 131 in that order. Some of the refrigerant and most of the adsorbent circulate through the confluence section 151, the high-pressure side separator 141, the high-pressure side container 133, the second control valve 162, the low-pressure side separator 142, the low-pressure side container 134, the first control valve 161, and the confluence section 151 in that order.

[0083] (3-1-3) Details of the refrigeration unit 100 In the high-pressure side container 133, the first deposit section 153a overlaps with the first heat exchanger 133a. In other words, during operation of the refrigeration system 100, the first heat exchanger 133a in the high-pressure side container 133 is always in contact with the adsorbent deposited in the first deposit section 153a. The height of the upper end of the first deposit section 153a changes depending on the amount of adsorbent circulating in the refrigerant flow path 111, etc. In other words, the amount of adsorbent in the high-pressure side container 133 changes depending on the amount of adsorbent circulating in the refrigerant flow path 111, etc.

[0084] In the low-pressure side container 134, the second deposit section 154a overlaps with the second heat exchanger 134a. In other words, during operation of the refrigeration system 100, the second heat exchanger 134a in the low-pressure side container 134 is always in contact with the adsorbent deposited in the second deposit section 154a. The height of the upper end of the second deposit section 154a changes depending on the amount of adsorbent circulating in the refrigerant flow path 111, etc. In other words, the amount of adsorbent in the low-pressure side container 134 changes depending on the amount of adsorbent circulating in the refrigerant flow path 111, etc.

[0085] In this embodiment, the shape and dimensions of the high-pressure side vessel 133 are designed such that the first deposit section 153a always overlaps with the first heat exchanger 133a during operation of the refrigeration system 100. In other words, even when the amount of adsorbent circulating in the refrigerant flow path 111 is at its lowest during operation of the refrigeration system 100, at least a portion of the first heat exchanger 133a is always in contact with the adsorbent. During operation of the refrigeration system 100, it is preferable that the first deposit section 153a overlaps with at least 50%, preferably at least 80%, of the first heat exchanger 133a in the vertical direction.

[0086] In this embodiment, the shape and dimensions of the low-pressure side vessel 134 are designed such that the second deposit section 154a always overlaps with the second heat exchanger 134a during operation of the refrigeration system 100. In other words, during operation of the refrigeration system 100, even when the amount of adsorbent circulating in the refrigerant flow path 111 is at its lowest, at least a portion of the second heat exchanger 134a is always in contact with the adsorbent. During operation of the refrigeration system 100, it is preferable that the second deposit section 154a overlaps with at least 50%, preferably at least 80%, of the second heat exchanger 134a in the vertical direction.

[0087] The control unit 105 may control the refrigeration system 100 such that the first deposition section 153a overlaps with the first heat exchanger 133a and the second deposition section 154a overlaps with the second heat exchanger 134a. For example, the control unit 105 controls at least one of the compressor 131, expansion mechanism 132, first control valve 161, and second control valve 162 to adjust the flow rate of refrigerant and adsorbent in the refrigerant flow path 111.

[0088] (3-1-4) Features During operation of the refrigeration system 100, the first heat exchanger 133a and the second heat exchanger 134a are in contact with the adsorbent. Therefore, during operation of the refrigeration system 100, the heat transfer medium flowing through the first channel 133b of the first heat exchanger 133a continues to recover thermal energy, and the heat transfer medium flowing through the second channel 134b of the second heat exchanger 134a continues to recover cold energy. Consequently, during operation of the refrigeration system 100, the first utilization unit 136 continues to utilize thermal energy, and the second utilization unit 137 continues to utilize cold energy.

[0089] During the operation of the refrigeration system 100, if there is a period during which the first heat exchanger 133a or the second heat exchanger 134a is not in contact with the adsorbent, there will be a period during which the first utilization unit 136 cannot utilize heat, or the second utilization unit 137 cannot utilize cold energy. In this case, the refrigeration system 100 cannot efficiently recover and utilize heat or cold energy.

[0090] Therefore, the refrigeration device 100 can efficiently recover and utilize heat from the mixed fluid, which is a mixture of refrigerant and adsorbent.

[0091] Furthermore, the refrigeration system 100 includes a high-pressure separator 141 and a low-pressure separator 142, which are separate from the high-pressure side container 133 from which heat is recovered and the low-pressure side container 134 from which cold energy is recovered, as components for separating the refrigerant and the adsorbent. Therefore, the refrigeration system 100 can efficiently separate the refrigerant and the adsorbent.

[0092] (3-2) Second Embodiment The basic configuration and operation of the refrigeration system 100 of the second embodiment are the same as those of the refrigeration system 100 of the first embodiment, so the differences between the two will be explained in detail. The same reference numerals are used for elements common to both the first and second embodiments.

[0093] (3-2-1) Control of the refrigeration unit 100 The control unit 105 performs a first control to control the height position H11 of the upper end of the first deposition section 153a to be the same as the height position H12 of the upper end of the first heat exchanger 133a, or to be higher than the height position H12 of the upper end of the first heat exchanger 133a. As shown in Figure 7, the height position of the upper surface of the adsorbent deposited on the first deposition section 153a may be highest at the position where it contacts the high-pressure side container 133, and lowest in the central part of the first space 153. In this case, the height position H11 of the upper end of the first deposition section 153a is the height position at the position where it contacts the high-pressure side container 133. The height position H12 of the upper end of the first heat exchanger 133a is the highest height position of the first heat exchanger 133a.

[0094] The control unit 105 performs a second control, which controls the height position H21 of the upper end of the second deposition section 154a to be the same as the height position H22 of the upper end of the second heat exchanger 134a, or to be higher than the height position H22 of the upper end of the second heat exchanger 134a. As shown in Figure 8, the height position of the upper surface of the adsorbent deposited in the second deposition section 154a may be highest at the position where it contacts the low-pressure side container 134, and lowest in the central part of the second space 154. In this case, the height position H21 of the upper end of the second deposition section 154a is the height position at the position where it contacts the low-pressure side container 134. The height position H22 of the upper end of the second heat exchanger 134a is the uppermost height position of the second heat exchanger 134a.

[0095] The control unit 105 controls at least one of the compressor 131, expansion mechanism 132, first control valve 161, and second control valve 162 to adjust the flow rate of refrigerant and adsorbent in the refrigerant flow path 111, thereby performing first and second control.

[0096] The control unit 105 adjusts the amount of adsorbent flowing through the second pipe 111b and the first pipe 111a by, for example, changing the opening degree of at least one of the first control valve 161 and the second control valve 162. This allows the control unit 105 to adjust the height position H11 of the upper end of the first accumulation section 153a and the height position H21 of the upper end of the second accumulation section 154a.

[0097] The control unit 105 adjusts the flow rate of the refrigerant and adsorbent supplied to the confluence section 151 by changing, for example, the rotational speed of the compressor 131 and at least one of the opening degree of the expansion mechanism 132. This allows the control unit 105 to adjust the height position H11 of the upper end of the first deposit section 153a and the height position H21 of the upper end of the second deposit section 154a.

[0098] It is preferable that the control unit 105 performs the first control such that the height position H11 of the upper end of the first deposition section 153a is located between the height position H12 of the upper end of the first heat exchanger 133a and the height position H13 of the upper end of the first space 153, as shown in Figure 7.

[0099] It is preferable that the control unit 105 performs a second control such that the height position H21 of the upper end of the second deposition section 154a is located between the height position H22 of the upper end of the second heat exchanger 134a and the height position H23 of the upper end of the second space 154, as shown in Figure 8.

[0100] (3-2-2) Features If the height position H11 of the upper end of the first deposition section 153a is the same as the height position H12 of the upper end of the first heat exchanger 133a, or higher than the height position H12 of the upper end of the first heat exchanger 133a, the first heat exchanger 133a can efficiently recover heat.

[0101] If the height position H21 of the upper end of the second accumulation section 154a is the same as the height position H22 of the upper end of the second heat exchanger 134a, or higher than the height position H22 of the upper end of the second heat exchanger 134a, the second heat exchanger 134a can efficiently recover cold energy.

[0102] Therefore, by performing first and second control, the refrigeration device 100 can efficiently recover and utilize heat from the mixed fluid, which is a mixture of refrigerant and adsorbent.

[0103] (3-3) Third Embodiment The basic configuration and operation of the refrigeration system 100 of the third embodiment are the same as those of the refrigeration system 100 of the second embodiment, so the differences between the two will be explained in detail. The same reference numerals are used for elements common to both the second and third embodiments.

[0104] (3-3-1) Control of the refrigeration unit 100 The control unit 105 performs a first control so that the entire upper surface of the first deposition section 153a is located above the first heat exchanger 133a. As shown in Figure 7, the control unit 105 performs a first control so that the height position H14 at the lowest point of the upper surface of the adsorbent deposited in the first deposition section 153a is higher than the height position H12 at the upper end of the first heat exchanger 133a. In other words, the control unit 105 performs a first control so that the first heat exchanger 133a is completely embedded in the adsorbent in the first space 153.

[0105] The control unit 105 performs a second control so that the entire upper surface of the second deposition section 154a is located above the second heat exchanger 134a. As shown in Figure 8, the control unit 105 performs a second control so that the height position H24 at the lowest point of the upper surface of the adsorbent deposited in the second deposition section 154a is higher than the height position H22 at the upper end of the second heat exchanger 134a. In other words, the control unit 105 performs a second control so that the second heat exchanger 134a is completely embedded in the adsorbent in the second space 154.

[0106] (3-3-2) Features When the entire first heat exchanger 133a is in contact with the adsorbent in the first space 153, the first heat exchanger 133a can efficiently recover heat.

[0107] When the entire second heat exchanger 134a is in contact with the adsorbent in the second space 154, the second heat exchanger 134a can efficiently recover cold energy.

[0108] Therefore, by performing first and second control, the refrigeration device 100 can efficiently recover and utilize heat from the mixed fluid, which is a mixture of refrigerant and adsorbent.

[0109] (3-4) Fourth Embodiment (3-4-1) Configuration of the refrigeration unit 200 The refrigeration system 200 of the fourth embodiment includes a refrigerant flow path 211 through which the refrigerant circulates, as shown in Figure 9. The refrigerant flow path 211 incorporates the functions of both the refrigerant circuit 11 and the adsorption circuit 12 of Figure 1. The adsorbent circulates within the refrigerant flow path 211 together with the refrigerant. In other words, in the refrigeration system 200, the mixed fluid flows within the refrigerant flow path 211.

[0110] The refrigeration system 200 includes a compressor 231, an expansion mechanism 232, a high-pressure side container 233 (first container), a low-pressure side container 234 (second container), and a confluence section 251. The refrigeration system 200 may further include a first utilization section 236, a second utilization section 237, a first control valve 261, and a second control valve 262.

[0111] The compressor 231 has the function of the compressor 31 in Figure 1. The expansion mechanism 232 has the function of the expansion mechanism 32 in Figure 1. The expansion mechanism 232 has the function of adjusting the amount of mixed fluid passing through the refrigerant passage 211 by adjusting the opening degree. The expansion mechanism 232 is an example of a pressure reducing section, for example, an electronic expansion valve.

[0112] The high-pressure side container 233 is a container having a first space 253 inside. The first space 253 consists of a first accumulation section 253a and a first retention section 253b. The first accumulation section 253a is a space that includes the bottom of the first space 253. The first accumulation section 253a is a space where adsorbent is accumulated when the refrigeration system 200 is in operation. A mixed fluid with a high adsorbent content may be accumulated in the first accumulation section 253a. The first retention section 253b is a space located above the first accumulation section 253a. The first retention section 253b is a space where refrigerant is accumulated when the refrigeration system 200 is in operation. A mixed fluid with a high refrigerant content may be accumulated in the first retention section 253b. The adsorbent content in the first accumulation section 253a is lower than the adsorbent content in the first retention section 253b. The amount of adsorbent per unit area in the first deposition section 253a is less than the amount of adsorbent per unit area in the first retention section 253b.

[0113] A first heat exchanger 233a is provided in the first space 253. The first heat exchanger 233a is, for example, a fin-tube type heat exchanger. The first heat exchanger 233a has a first flow path 233b through which a heat transfer medium flows. The first flow path 233b is connected to the first utilization unit 236. During operation of the refrigeration system 200, in the first space 253, the refrigerant is adsorbed onto the adsorbent, generating heat of adsorption, which is thermal energy. The thermal energy generated in the first space 253 is recovered by the heat transfer medium flowing through the first flow path 233b. The heat transfer medium from which the thermal energy has been recovered is sent to the first utilization unit 236 for use.

[0114] The high-pressure side container 233 separates the high-pressure mixed fluid in the refrigerant flow path 211 into high-pressure refrigerant and adsorbent. In the high-pressure side container 233, the mixed fluid may be separated into a mixed fluid with a high refrigerant content and a mixed fluid with a high adsorbent content. In this case, the mixed fluid with a high refrigerant content refers to a mixed fluid with a higher refrigerant content than the mixed fluid flowing in from the first inlet 241a, as described later. Similarly, the mixed fluid with a high adsorbent content refers to a mixed fluid with a higher adsorbent content than the mixed fluid flowing in from the first inlet 241a. The high-pressure side container 233 is, for example, a container having a mechanism for centrifuging the adsorbent by swirling the mixed fluid in the first space 253. In other words, the high-pressure side container 233 has the function of the high-pressure side separator 141 of the first to third embodiments.

[0115] The high-pressure side container 233 has a first inlet 241a, a first outlet 241b, and a second outlet 241c. The first inlet 241a is located at the top of the high-pressure side container 233. The first inlet 241a communicates with the first retention section 253b. The first outlet 241b is located at the top of the high-pressure side container 233. The first outlet 241b communicates with the first retention section 253b. The second outlet 241c is located at the bottom of the high-pressure side container 233. The second outlet 241c communicates with the first accumulation section 253a. The first inlet 241a is connected to the junction section 251. The first outlet 241b is connected to the expansion mechanism 232. The second outlet 241c is connected to the low-pressure side container 234. A high-pressure mixed fluid flows into the first inlet 241a. From the first outlet 241b, mainly high-pressure refrigerant separated in the high-pressure side container 233, or a mixed fluid with a high refrigerant content, flows out. From the second outlet 241c, mainly adsorbent separated in the high-pressure side container 233, or a mixed fluid with a high adsorbent content, flows out.

[0116] The low-pressure side container 234 is a container having a second space 254 inside. The second space 254 consists of a second accumulation section 254a and a second retention section 254b. The second accumulation section 254a is a space that includes the bottom of the second space 254. The second accumulation section 254a is a space where adsorbent is accumulated when the refrigeration system 200 is in operation. A mixed fluid with a high adsorbent content may be accumulated in the second accumulation section 254a. The second retention section 254b is a space located above the second accumulation section 254a. The second retention section 254b is a space where refrigerant is accumulated when the refrigeration system 200 is in operation. A mixed fluid with a high refrigerant content may be accumulated in the second retention section 254b. The adsorbent content in the second accumulation section 254a is lower than the adsorbent content in the second retention section 254b. The amount of adsorbent per unit area in the second deposition section 254a is less than the amount of adsorbent per unit area in the second retention section 254b.

[0117] A second heat exchanger 234a is provided in the second space 254. The second heat exchanger 234a is, for example, a fin-tube type heat exchanger. The second heat exchanger 234a has a second flow path 234b through which a heat transfer medium flows. The second flow path 234b is connected to the second utilization unit 237. During operation of the refrigeration system 200, the refrigerant desorbs from the adsorbent in the second space 254, generating heat of desorption, which is cold energy. The cold energy generated in the second space 254 is recovered by the heat transfer medium flowing through the second flow path 234b. The heat transfer medium from which the cold energy has been recovered is sent to the second utilization unit 237 for use.

[0118] The low-pressure side container 234 separates the low-pressure mixed refrigerant in the refrigerant flow path 211 into low-pressure refrigerant and adsorbent. In the low-pressure side container 234, the mixed fluid may be separated into a mixed fluid with a high refrigerant content and a mixed fluid with a high adsorbent content. In this case, the mixed fluid with a high refrigerant content refers to a mixed fluid with a higher refrigerant content than the mixed fluid flowing in from the second inlet 242a, which will be described later. Similarly, the mixed fluid with a high adsorbent content refers to a mixed fluid with a higher adsorbent content than the mixed fluid flowing in from the second inlet 242a. The low-pressure side container 234 is, for example, a container having a mechanism for centrifuging the adsorbent by swirling the mixed fluid in the second space 254. In other words, the low-pressure side container 234 has the function of the low-pressure side separator 142 of the first to third embodiments.

[0119] The low-pressure side container 234 has a second inlet 242a, a third outlet 242b, and a fourth outlet 242c. The second inlet 242a is located at the top of the low-pressure side container 234. The second inlet 242a communicates with the second retention section 254b. The third outlet 242b is located at the top of the low-pressure side container 234. The third outlet 242b communicates with the second retention section 254b. The fourth outlet 242c is located at the bottom of the low-pressure side container 234. The fourth outlet 242c communicates with the second accumulation section 254a. The second inlet 242a is connected to the second outlet 241c of the high-pressure side container 233. The third outlet 242b is connected to the suction side of the compressor 231. The fourth outlet 242c is connected to the junction 251. The adsorbent and refrigerant that have flowed out from the second outlet 241c of the high-pressure side container 233 flow into the second inlet 242a. The third outlet 242b mainly discharges low-pressure refrigerant separated in the low-pressure side container 234, or a mixed fluid with a high refrigerant content. The fourth outlet 242c mainly discharges adsorbent separated in the low-pressure side container 234, or a mixed fluid with a high adsorbent content.

[0120] The refrigerant flow path 211 includes a first pipe 211a, a second pipe 211b, a third pipe 211c, a fourth pipe 211d, a fifth pipe 211e, and a sixth pipe 211f.

[0121] The first pipe 211a connects the second outlet 241c of the high-pressure side container 233 to the second inlet 242a of the low-pressure side container 234. The first pipe 211a is equipped with a second control valve 262. The second pipe 211b connects the fourth outlet 242c of the low-pressure side container 234 to the junction 251. The second pipe 211b is equipped with a first control valve 261. The third pipe 211c connects the discharge side of the compressor 231 to the junction 251. The fourth pipe 211d connects the junction 251 to the first inlet 241a of the high-pressure side container 233. The fifth pipe 211e connects the third outlet 242b of the low-pressure side container 234 to the suction side of the compressor 231. The sixth pipe 211f connects the first outlet 241b of the high-pressure side container 233 to the fifth pipe 211e. An expansion mechanism 232 is provided in the sixth pipe 211f.

[0122] The confluence section 251 is a mechanism for combining the refrigerant, which has been separated in the high-pressure side container 233 and the low-pressure side container 234 and compressed by the compressor 231, with the adsorbent that has been accumulated in the second accumulation section 254a of the low-pressure side container 234.

[0123] The confluence section 251 is, for example, an ejector mechanism. In this case, the confluence section 251 is configured to draw in an adsorbent by ejecting a refrigerant and causing it to expand under reduced pressure, and then mix the drawn adsorbent with the ejected refrigerant. When the confluence section 251 is an ejector mechanism, the orientation of the confluence section 251 is not particularly limited.

[0124] The junction 251, which is an ejector mechanism, has the same configuration and function as the junction 151 of the first embodiment shown in Figure 5. In this embodiment, the nozzle 151b is connected to the third pipe 211c, the suction chamber 151c is connected to the second pipe 211b, and the diffuser section 151e is connected to the fourth pipe 211d. The high-pressure refrigerant compressed by the compressor 231 flows through the third pipe 211c and into the internal flow path 151f of the nozzle 151b. The adsorbent accumulated in the second deposit section 254a of the low-pressure side container 234 flows through the second pipe 211b and into the suction chamber 151c. The mixed fluid generated in the mixing section 151d passes through the diffuser section 151e and flows into the fourth pipe 211d.

[0125] The first control valve 261 is provided between the low-pressure side container 234 and the confluence 251. The first control valve 261 adjusts the amount of adsorbent flowing from the low-pressure side container 234 to the confluence 251. The first control valve 261 has the function of adjusting the amount of adsorbent flowing through the second pipe 211b. The first control valve 261 is, for example, a powder valve with adjustable opening. A mixed fluid, which is a mixture of adsorbent and a small amount of refrigerant, flows through the second pipe 211b. The adsorbent content of the mixed fluid flowing through the second pipe 211b is higher than the adsorbent content of the mixed fluid circulating through the refrigerant flow path 211 (for example, the mixed fluid flowing through the fourth pipe 211d).

[0126] The low-pressure side container 234 and the confluence section 251 are arranged such that when the first control valve 261 is open, the adsorbent material accumulated in the second accumulation section 254a of the low-pressure side container 234 falls through the inside of the second pipe 211b due to gravity and is supplied to the suction chamber 151c of the confluence section 251. For example, the confluence section 251 is positioned below the low-pressure side container 234. In order for the adsorbent material to fall through the inside of the second pipe 211b due to gravity, the angle between the direction in which the second pipe 211b extends and the vertical direction is preferably 30° or less.

[0127] The second control valve 262 is installed between the high-pressure side container 233 and the low-pressure side container 234. The second control valve 262 adjusts the amount of adsorbent flowing from the high-pressure side container 233 to the low-pressure side container 234. The second control valve 262 has the function of adjusting the amount of adsorbent flowing through the first piping 211a. The second control valve 262 is, for example, a powder valve whose opening degree can be adjusted. A mixed fluid, which is a mixture of adsorbent and a small amount of refrigerant, flows through the first piping 211a. The adsorbent content of the mixed fluid flowing through the first piping 211a is higher than the adsorbent content of the mixed fluid circulating through the refrigerant flow path 211.

[0128] The high-pressure side container 233 and the low-pressure side container 234 may be arranged such that, when the second control valve 262 is open, the adsorbent material accumulated in the first accumulation section 253a of the high-pressure side container 233 falls through the inside of the first pipe 211a due to gravity and is supplied to the low-pressure side container 234. For example, the low-pressure side container 234 is positioned below the high-pressure side container 233. In order for the adsorbent material to fall through the inside of the first pipe 211a due to gravity, the angle between the direction in which the first pipe 211a extends and the vertical direction is preferably 30° or less.

[0129] The high-pressure refrigerant flowing out from the first outlet 241b of the high-pressure side container 233 flows through the sixth pipe 211f, is depressurized by the expansion mechanism 232, and flows into the fifth pipe 211e. The adsorbent in the first deposit section 253a of the high-pressure side container 233 passes through the second control valve 262 together with the high-pressure refrigerant. The high-pressure refrigerant is depressurized as it passes through the second control valve 262 and flows into the low-pressure side container 234. The fifth pipe 211e, which is connected to the low-pressure side container 234, is connected to the sixth pipe 211f through which the refrigerant depressurized by the expansion mechanism 232 flows. Therefore, during operation of the refrigeration system 200, the pressure in the second space 254 of the low-pressure side container 234 is lower than the pressure in the first space 253 of the high-pressure side container 233. If the opening of the second control valve 262 is not zero, the adsorbent accumulated in the first deposit section 253a of the high-pressure side container 233 flows through the inside of the first pipe 211a due to the pressure difference and is supplied to the low-pressure side container 234.

[0130] The refrigeration system 200 further comprises a control unit 205. The control unit 205 corresponds to the control unit 105 of the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 10, the control unit 205 controls the compressor 231, the expansion mechanism 232, the first control valve 261, and the second control valve 262. The control unit 205 controls the rotational speed of the compressor 231. The control unit 205 controls the timing for starting the compressor 231 and the timing for stopping the compressor 231. The control unit 205 controls the opening degree of the expansion mechanism 232. The control unit 205 controls the opening degree of the first control valve 261. The control unit 205 controls the opening degree of the second control valve 262.

[0131] (3-4-2) Operation of the refrigeration unit 200 The refrigeration system 200 includes a first utilization unit 236 that utilizes the heat generated in the high-pressure side container 233, and a second utilization unit 237 that utilizes the cold heat generated in the low-pressure side container 234. When the refrigeration system 200 is an air conditioning system, the first utilization unit 236 is used during heating operation, and the second utilization unit 237 is used during cooling operation. Next, the flow of refrigerant and adsorbent circulating in the refrigerant flow path 211 during operation of the refrigeration system 200 will be described.

[0132] The high-pressure mixed fluid flowing into the high-pressure side container 233 from the first inlet 241a is separated into refrigerant and adsorbent in the first space 253. The refrigerant separated in the first space 253 flows into the sixth pipe 211f from the first outlet 241b and is depressurized by the expansion mechanism 232. The refrigerant depressurized by the expansion mechanism 232 flows through the fifth pipe 211e, is compressed by the compressor 231, and then flows through the third pipe 211c to be supplied to the junction 251. The adsorbent separated in the first space 253 is deposited in the first accumulation section 253a. The refrigerant separated in the first space 253 is deposited in the first retention section 253b of the high-pressure side container 233.

[0133] In the first space 253 of the high-pressure side container 233, the adsorbent adsorbs the refrigerant, generating heat of adsorption (thermal heat). The thermal heat generated in the first space 253 is recovered by the heat transfer medium flowing through the first channel 233b of the first heat exchanger 233a. The first utilization unit 236 utilizes the thermal heat recovered by the heat transfer medium.

[0134] The adsorbent material, which has adsorbed refrigerant and is deposited in the first deposit section 253a of the high-pressure side container 233, flows into the first piping 211a from the second outlet 241c along with the high-pressure refrigerant and passes through the second control valve 262. As it passes through the second control valve 262, the high-pressure refrigerant is depressurized. The mixed fluid that has passed through the second control valve 262 flows into the low-pressure side container 234 from the second inlet 242a.

[0135] The low-pressure mixed fluid that flows into the low-pressure side container 234 from the second inlet 242a is separated into refrigerant and adsorbent in the second space 254. The refrigerant separated in the second space 254 flows into the fifth pipe 211e from the third outlet 242b, flows through the fifth pipe 211e and is compressed by the compressor 231, and then flows through the third pipe 211c and is supplied to the confluence 251. The adsorbent separated in the second space 254 is deposited in the second accumulation section 254a. The refrigerant separated in the second space 254 is accumulated in the second retention section 254b of the low-pressure side container 234.

[0136] In the second space 254 of the low-pressure side container 234, the adsorbent desorbs the refrigerant, generating desorption heat (cold energy). The cold energy generated in the second space 254 is recovered by the heat transfer medium flowing through the second channel 234b of the second heat exchanger 234a. The second utilization unit 237 utilizes the cold energy recovered by the heat transfer medium.

[0137] The adsorbent material, from which the refrigerant has been desorbed and deposited in the second deposit section 254a of the low-pressure side container 234, flows into the second piping 211b from the fourth outlet 242c along with the low-pressure refrigerant and passes through the first control valve 261. The adsorbent material that has passed through the first control valve 261 is supplied to the confluence section 251.

[0138] At the junction 251, the refrigerant flowing through the third pipe 211c and the adsorbent flowing through the second pipe 211b merge to generate a high-pressure mixed fluid. The high-pressure mixed fluid generated at the junction 251 flows through the fourth pipe 211d and enters the high-pressure side container 233 from the first inlet 241a.

[0139] Most of the refrigerant and some of the adsorbent circulate through the compressor 231, the confluence section 251, the high-pressure side container 233, the expansion mechanism 232, and the compressor 231 in that order. Some of the refrigerant and most of the adsorbent circulate through the confluence section 251, the high-pressure side container 233, the second control valve 262, the low-pressure side container 234, the first control valve 261, and the confluence section 251 in that order.

[0140] (3-4-3) Details of Refrigeration Unit 200 In the high-pressure side container 233, the first deposit section 253a overlaps with the first heat exchanger 233a. In other words, during operation of the refrigeration system 200, the first heat exchanger 233a in the high-pressure side container 233 is always in contact with the adsorbent deposited in the first deposit section 253a. The height of the upper end of the first deposit section 253a changes depending on the amount of adsorbent circulating in the refrigerant flow path 211, etc. In other words, the amount of adsorbent in the high-pressure side container 233 changes depending on the amount of adsorbent circulating in the refrigerant flow path 211, etc.

[0141] In the low-pressure side container 234, the second deposit section 254a overlaps with the second heat exchanger 234a. In other words, during operation of the refrigeration system 200, the second heat exchanger 234a in the low-pressure side container 234 is always in contact with the adsorbent deposited in the second deposit section 254a. The height of the upper end of the second deposit section 254a changes depending on the amount of adsorbent circulating in the refrigerant flow path 211, etc. In other words, the amount of adsorbent in the low-pressure side container 234 changes depending on the amount of adsorbent circulating in the refrigerant flow path 211, etc.

[0142] In this embodiment, the shape and dimensions of the high-pressure side container 233 are designed such that the first deposit section 253a always overlaps with the first heat exchanger 233a during operation of the refrigeration system 200. In other words, during operation of the refrigeration system 200, even when the amount of adsorbent circulating in the refrigerant flow path 211 is at its lowest, at least a portion of the first heat exchanger 233a is always in contact with the adsorbent. During operation of the refrigeration system 200, it is preferable that the first deposit section 253a overlaps with at least 50%, preferably at least 80%, of the first heat exchanger 233a in the vertical direction.

[0143] In this embodiment, the shape and dimensions of the low-pressure side vessel 234 are designed such that the second deposit section 254a always overlaps with the second heat exchanger 234a during operation of the refrigeration system 200. In other words, during operation of the refrigeration system 200, even when the amount of adsorbent circulating in the refrigerant flow path 211 is at its lowest, at least a portion of the second heat exchanger 234a is always in contact with the adsorbent. During operation of the refrigeration system 200, it is preferable that the second deposit section 254a overlaps with at least 50%, preferably at least 80%, of the second heat exchanger 234a in the vertical direction.

[0144] The control unit 205 may control the refrigeration system 200 such that the first deposition section 253a overlaps with the first heat exchanger 233a and the second deposition section 254a overlaps with the second heat exchanger 234a. For example, the control unit 205 controls at least one of the compressor 231, expansion mechanism 232, first control valve 261, and second control valve 262 to adjust the flow rate of refrigerant and adsorbent in the refrigerant flow path 211.

[0145] (3-4-4) Features During operation of the refrigeration system 200, the first heat exchanger 233a and the second heat exchanger 234a are in contact with the adsorbent. Therefore, during operation of the refrigeration system 200, the heat transfer medium flowing through the first channel 233b of the first heat exchanger 233a continues to recover thermal energy, and the heat transfer medium flowing through the second channel 234b of the second heat exchanger 234a continues to recover cold energy. Consequently, during operation of the refrigeration system 200, the first utilization unit 236 continues to utilize thermal energy, and the second utilization unit 237 continues to utilize cold energy.

[0146] During the operation of the refrigeration system 200, if there is a period during which the first heat exchanger 233a or the second heat exchanger 234a is not in contact with the adsorbent, there will be a period during which the first utilization unit 236 cannot utilize heat, or the second utilization unit 237 cannot utilize cold energy. In this case, the refrigeration system 200 cannot efficiently recover and utilize heat or cold energy.

[0147] Therefore, the refrigeration device 200 can efficiently recover and utilize heat from the mixed fluid, which is a mixture of refrigerant and adsorbent.

[0148] (3-5) Fifth Embodiment The basic configuration and operation of the refrigeration system 200 of the fifth embodiment are the same as those of the refrigeration system 200 of the fourth embodiment, so the differences between the two will be explained in detail. The same reference numerals are used for elements common to both the fourth and fifth embodiments.

[0149] (3-5-1) Control of refrigeration unit 200 The control unit 205 performs a first control, which controls the height position H31 of the upper end of the first deposition section 253a to be the same as the height position H32 of the upper end of the first heat exchanger 233a, or to be higher than the height position H32 of the upper end of the first heat exchanger 233a. As shown in Figure 11, the height position of the upper surface of the adsorbent deposited in the first deposition section 253a may be highest at the position where it contacts the high-pressure side container 233, and lowest in the central part of the first space 253. In this case, the height position H31 of the upper end of the first deposition section 253a is the height position at the position where it contacts the high-pressure side container 233. The height position H32 of the upper end of the first heat exchanger 233a is the highest height position of the first heat exchanger 233a.

[0150] The control unit 205 performs a second control, which controls the height position H41 of the upper end of the second deposition section 254a to be the same as the height position H42 of the upper end of the second heat exchanger 234a, or to be higher than the height position H42 of the upper end of the second heat exchanger 234a. As shown in Figure 12, the height position of the upper surface of the adsorbent deposited in the second deposition section 254a may be highest at the position in contact with the low-pressure side container 234 and lowest in the central part of the second space 254. In this case, the height position H41 of the upper end of the second deposition section 254a is the height position at the position in contact with the low-pressure side container 234. The height position H42 of the upper end of the second heat exchanger 234a is the uppermost height position of the second heat exchanger 234a.

[0151] The control unit 205 controls at least one of the compressor 231, expansion mechanism 232, first control valve 261, and second control valve 262 to adjust the flow rate of refrigerant and adsorbent in the refrigerant flow path 211, thereby performing first and second control.

[0152] The control unit 205 adjusts the amount of adsorbent flowing through the second pipe 211b and the first pipe 211a by, for example, changing the opening degree of at least one of the first control valve 261 and the second control valve 262. This allows the control unit 205 to adjust the height position H31 of the upper end of the first accumulation section 253a and the height position H41 of the upper end of the second accumulation section 254a.

[0153] Furthermore, the control unit 205 adjusts the flow rate of the refrigerant and adsorbent supplied to the confluence section 251 by changing, for example, the rotational speed of the compressor 231 and at least one of the opening degree of the expansion mechanism 232. This allows the control unit 205 to adjust the height position H31 of the upper end of the first deposit section 253a and the height position H41 of the upper end of the second deposit section 254a.

[0154] (3-5-2) Features If the height position H31 of the upper end of the first deposition section 253a is the same as the height position H32 of the upper end of the first heat exchanger 233a, or higher than the height position H32 of the upper end of the first heat exchanger 233a, the first heat exchanger 233a can efficiently recover heat.

[0155] If the height position H41 of the upper end of the second accumulation section 254a is the same as the height position H42 of the upper end of the second heat exchanger 234a, or higher than the height position H42 of the upper end of the second heat exchanger 234a, the second heat exchanger 234a can efficiently recover cold energy.

[0156] Therefore, by performing the first and second controls, the refrigeration device 200 can efficiently recover and utilize heat from the mixed fluid, which is a mixture of refrigerant and adsorbent.

[0157] (3-6) Sixth Embodiment The basic configuration and operation of the refrigeration system 200 of the sixth embodiment are the same as those of the refrigeration system 200 of the fifth embodiment, so the differences between the two will be explained in detail. The same reference numerals are used for elements common to both the fifth and sixth embodiments.

[0158] (3-6-1) Control of the refrigeration unit 200 The control unit 205 performs a first control so that the entire upper surface of the first deposition section 253a is located above the first heat exchanger 233a. As shown in Figure 11, the control unit 205 performs a first control so that the height position H34 at the lowest point of the upper surface of the adsorbent deposited in the first deposition section 253a is higher than the height position H32 at the upper end of the first heat exchanger 233a. In other words, the control unit 205 performs a first control so that the first heat exchanger 233a is completely embedded in the adsorbent in the first space 253.

[0159] The control unit 205 performs a second control so that the entire upper surface of the second deposition section 254a is located above the second heat exchanger 234a. As shown in Figure 12, the control unit 205 performs a second control so that the height position H44 at the lowest point of the upper surface of the adsorbent deposited in the second deposition section 254a is higher than the height position H42 at the upper end of the second heat exchanger 234a. In other words, the control unit 205 performs a second control so that the second heat exchanger 234a is completely embedded in the adsorbent in the second space 254.

[0160] (3-6-2) Characteristics When the entire first heat exchanger 233a is in contact with the adsorbent in the first space 253, the first heat exchanger 233a can efficiently recover heat.

[0161] When the entire second heat exchanger 234a is in contact with the adsorbent in the second space 254, the second heat exchanger 234a can efficiently recover cold energy.

[0162] Therefore, by performing the first and second controls, the refrigeration device 200 can efficiently recover and utilize heat from the mixed fluid, which is a mixture of refrigerant and adsorbent.

[0163] (3-7) Seventh Embodiment The basic configuration and operation of the refrigeration system 200 of the seventh embodiment are the same as those of the refrigeration system 200 of the fourth embodiment, so the differences between the two will be explained in detail. The same reference numerals are used for elements common to both the fourth and seventh embodiments.

[0164] (3-7-1) Control of the refrigeration unit 200 The control unit 205 performs a third control, which controls the height position H31 of the upper end of the first accumulation section 253a to be lower than the height position H33 of the lower end of the first outlet 241b.

[0165] The control unit 205 performs a fourth control, which controls the height position H41 of the upper end of the second accumulation section 254a to be lower than the height position H43 of the lower end of the third outlet 242b.

[0166] The control unit 205 may perform third and fourth control in addition to the first and second control of the fifth and sixth embodiments.

[0167] (3-7-2) Characteristics The control unit 205 can suppress the flow of the adsorbent material deposited in the first deposit section 253a into the sixth pipe 211f from the first outlet 241b by performing the third control.

[0168] The control unit 205 can suppress the flow of the adsorbent material deposited in the second deposit section 254a into the fifth pipe 211e from the third outlet 242b by performing the fourth control.

[0169] If adsorbent material flows into the fifth pipe 211e or the sixth pipe 211f, the amount of adsorbent material deposited in the first deposit section 253a or the second deposit section 254a will decrease. As a result, the efficiency of heat recovery by the first heat exchanger 233a or cold energy recovery by the second heat exchanger 234a may decrease.

[0170] Therefore, by performing the third and fourth controls, the refrigeration device 200 can efficiently recover and utilize heat from the mixed fluid, which is a mixture of refrigerant and adsorbent.

[0171] (4) Variations (4-1) Variation A The refrigeration system 100 of the first to third embodiments includes a first control valve 161 and a second control valve 162. However, the refrigeration system 100 does not need to include the first control valve 161. In this case, the control unit 105 controls at least one of the compressor 131, the expansion mechanism 132, and the second control valve 162 to adjust the flow rate of refrigerant and adsorbent in the refrigerant flow path 111, thereby performing the first and second controls.

[0172] Furthermore, the refrigeration system 100 does not necessarily have to be equipped with a second control valve 162. In this case, the control unit 105 controls at least one of the compressor 131, the expansion mechanism 132, and the first control valve 161 to adjust the flow rate of refrigerant and adsorbent in the refrigerant flow path 111, thereby performing first and second control.

[0173] Furthermore, the refrigeration system 100 does not necessarily have to include a first control valve 161 and a second control valve 162. In this case, the control unit 105 controls at least one of the compressor 131 and the expansion mechanism 132 to adjust the flow rate of refrigerant and adsorbent in the refrigerant flow path 111, thereby performing the first and second controls.

[0174] The refrigeration system 200 of the fourth to seventh embodiments includes a first control valve 261 and a second control valve 262. However, the refrigeration system 200 does not need to include the first control valve 261. In this case, the control unit 205 controls at least one of the compressor 231, the expansion mechanism 232, and the second control valve 262 to adjust the flow rate of refrigerant and adsorbent in the refrigerant flow path 211, thereby performing the first to fourth controls.

[0175] Furthermore, the refrigeration system 200 does not need to be equipped with a second control valve 262. In this case, the control unit 205 controls at least one of the compressor 231, the expansion mechanism 232, and the first control valve 261 to adjust the flow rate of the refrigerant and adsorbent in the refrigerant flow path 211, thereby performing the first to fourth controls.

[0176] Furthermore, the refrigeration system 200 does not need to be equipped with a first control valve 261 and a second control valve 262. In this case, the control unit 205 controls at least one of the compressor 231 and the expansion mechanism 232 to adjust the flow rate of refrigerant and adsorbent in the refrigerant flow path 211, thereby performing the first to fourth controls.

[0177] (4-2) Modification B In the refrigeration apparatus 100 of the first to third embodiments, if the confluence section 151 is an ejector mechanism as shown in Figure 5, the confluence section 151 may have a pressure adjustment mechanism for adjusting the pressure of the fluid passing through the internal flow path 151f. For example, the confluence section 151 may further have a first member as a pressure adjustment mechanism, which is arranged inside the nozzle 151b so as to be able to move back and forth on the central axis of the nozzle 151b. The first member is, for example, a needle-shaped member. In this case, changing the position of the first member changes the flow area of ​​the internal flow path 151f, and thus changes the pressure of the fluid passing through the internal flow path 151f. For example, if the position of the first member is changed so as to decrease the flow area of ​​the internal flow path 151f, the degree of decrease in the pressure of the refrigerant passing through the internal flow path 151f increases.

[0178] In this modified example, the control unit 105 further controls the pressure adjustment mechanism of the confluence section 151. For example, the control unit 105 changes the position of the first member, which is the pressure adjustment mechanism, to perform flow rate adjustment control to adjust the amount of refrigerant ejected from the nozzle 151b to the mixing section 151d. The control unit 105 may perform the first control and the second control by performing flow rate adjustment control.

[0179] This modified example is also applicable to the confluence section 251 of the refrigeration device 200 of the fourth to seventh embodiments. In this case, the control unit 205 may perform the first to fourth controls by performing flow rate adjustment control.

[0180] (4-3) Modification C In the refrigeration system 100 of the first to third embodiments, the low-pressure side separator 142 does not have to be located below the high-pressure side container 133. For example, the low-pressure side separator 142 may be located at the same height as the high-pressure side container 133, or at a height above the high-pressure side container 133. Even in this case, when the second control valve 162 is open, the adsorbent material accumulated in the first accumulation section 153a of the high-pressure side container 133 flows through the first piping 111a due to the pressure difference between the first space 153 and the internal space of the low-pressure side separator 142, and is supplied to the low-pressure side separator 142.

[0181] In the refrigeration system 200 of the fourth to seventh embodiments, the low-pressure side container 234 does not have to be located below the high-pressure side container 233. For example, the low-pressure side container 234 may be located at the same height as the high-pressure side container 233, or at a height above the high-pressure side container 233. Even in this case, when the second control valve 262 is open, the adsorbent material accumulated in the first accumulation section 253a of the high-pressure side container 233 flows through the inside of the first piping 211a due to the pressure difference between the first space 253 and the second space 254 and is supplied to the low-pressure side container 234.

[0182] (4-4) Modification D In the refrigeration apparatus 100 of the first to third embodiments, it is preferable that the first flow path 133b of the first heat exchanger 133a has a flow path in which the heat transfer medium flows in the direction opposite to the flow direction of the adsorbent in the first space 153.

[0183] In Figure 13, the flow direction of the adsorbent inside the high-pressure side container 133 is indicated by arrow P1, and the flow direction of the heat transfer medium is indicated by arrow P2. The adsorbent flows in the first space 153 from the high-pressure side inlet 133d toward the high-pressure side outlet 133c. Therefore, in the first space 153, the adsorbent flows from top to bottom. The heat transfer medium passing through the first channel 133b flows along the side of the high-pressure side outlet 133c and then along the side of the high-pressure side inlet 133d. Therefore, the first channel 133b has a flow path in the first space 153 through which the heat transfer medium flows from bottom to top.

[0184] Therefore, the high-pressure side container 133 has a portion where the flow direction of the heat transfer medium in the first space 153 is opposite to the flow direction of the adsorbent. As a result, heat exchange between the adsorbent and the refrigerant is carried out efficiently in the first space 153.

[0185] Similarly, in the refrigeration device 100, it is preferable that the second flow path 134b of the second heat exchanger 134a has a flow path through which the heat transfer medium flows in the opposite direction to the flow direction of the adsorbent in the second space 154.

[0186] This modified example is also applicable to the first heat exchanger 233a and the second heat exchanger 234a of the refrigeration system 200 of the fourth to seventh embodiments.

[0187] (4-5) Modification E In the refrigeration apparatus 100 of the first to third embodiments, the high-pressure side container 133 may further include a detection unit 171 for detecting the amount of adsorbent accumulated in the first accumulation section 153a. The detection unit 171 is, for example, a temperature sensor or a float switch mechanism. The temperature sensor is, for example, a thermocouple.

[0188] The detection unit 171, which is a temperature sensor, is attached to the outer surface of the high-pressure side container 133, as shown in Figure 13. The detection unit 171 measures the temperature of the outer surface of the high-pressure side container 133.

[0189] The detection unit 171, which is a float switch mechanism, has a float configured to move in a predetermined direction in response to changes in the amount of adsorbent accumulated in the first accumulation section 153a. The float is installed in the first space 153 of the high-pressure side container 133. The detection unit 171 measures the position of the float in the first space 153.

[0190] The control unit 105 calculates the amount of adsorbent to be accumulated in the first deposition section 153a based on the measurement data acquired by the detection unit 171.

[0191] Similarly, the low-pressure side container 134 may further include a detection unit 171 for detecting the amount of adsorbent accumulated in the second accumulation section 154a.

[0192] In this case, the detection unit 171, which is a temperature sensor, is attached to the outer surface of the low-pressure side container 134. The detection unit 171 measures the temperature of the outer surface of the low-pressure side container 134.

[0193] The detection unit 171, which is a float switch mechanism, has a float configured to move in a predetermined direction in response to changes in the amount of adsorbent accumulated in the second accumulation section 154a. The float is installed in the second space 154 of the low-pressure side container 134. The detection unit 171 measures the position of the float in the second space 154.

[0194] The control unit 105 calculates the amount of adsorbent to be accumulated in the second deposition section 154a based on the measurement data from the detection unit 171.

[0195] This modified example is also applicable to the high-pressure side container 233 and low-pressure side container 234 of the refrigeration system 200 of the fourth to seventh embodiments.

[0196] (4-6) Modification F Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 100', which is a modified version of the refrigeration system 100 of the first to third embodiments. The refrigeration system 100 includes a confluence section 151, which is an ejector mechanism. The refrigeration system 100' has a three-way joint 152 instead of the confluence section 151. The three-way joint 152 is, for example, a T-shaped pipe. The three-way joint 152 connects the second pipe 111b, the third pipe 111c, and the fourth pipe 111d. In the refrigeration system 100, a first control valve 161 is provided in the second pipe 111b. In the refrigeration system 100', a pump 163 is provided in the second pipe 111b instead of the first control valve 161. The pump 163 sends the adsorbent and refrigerant flowing through the second pipe 111b to the three-way joint 152. At the three-way joint 152, the high-pressure refrigerant flowing through the third pipe 111c and the adsorbent sent from the pump 163 merge to create a high-pressure mixed fluid. The resulting mixed fluid flows out from the three-way joint 152 into the fourth pipe 111d.

[0197] In this modified refrigeration system 100', the control unit 105 further controls the pump 163. The control unit 105 controls the rotational speed of the pump 163. The control unit 105 controls at least one of the compressor 131, expansion mechanism 132, pump 163, and second control valve 162 to adjust the flow rate of refrigerant and adsorbent in the refrigerant flow path 111.

[0198] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 200', which is a modified version of the refrigeration system 200 of the fourth to seventh embodiments. The refrigeration system 200 includes a junction 251 which is an ejector mechanism. The refrigeration system 200' has a three-way joint 252 instead of a junction 251. The three-way joint 252 is, for example, a T-shaped pipe. The three-way joint 252 connects the second pipe 211b, the third pipe 211c, and the fourth pipe 211d. In the refrigeration system 200, a first control valve 261 is provided in the second pipe 211b. In the refrigeration system 200', a pump 263 is provided in the second pipe 211b instead of the first control valve 261. The pump 263 sends the adsorbent and refrigerant flowing through the second pipe 211b to the three-way joint 252. At the three-way joint 252, the high-pressure refrigerant flowing through the third pipe 211c and the adsorbent sent from the pump 263 merge to create a high-pressure mixed fluid. The resulting mixed fluid flows out from the three-way joint 252 into the fourth pipe 211d.

[0199] In this modified refrigeration system 200', the control unit 205 further controls the pump 263. The control unit 205 controls the rotational speed of the pump 263. The control unit 205 controls at least one of the compressor 231, the expansion mechanism 232, the pump 263, and the second control valve 262 to adjust the flow rate of refrigerant and adsorbent in the refrigerant flow path 211.

[0200] (4-7) Modification G The adsorbent used in the first to seventh embodiments is a metal-organic structure. However, materials other than metal-organic structures may be used as the adsorbent. Examples of materials other than metal-organic structures include activated carbon, zeolite-based materials, silica-based materials, and alumina-based materials.

[0201] 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]

[0202] 100: Refrigeration equipment 105: Control Unit 131: Compressor 132: Expansion mechanism (pressure reduction section) 133: High-pressure side container (first container) 133a: First heat exchanger (first heat recovery section) 133b: First channel 134: Low-pressure side container (second container) 134a: Second heat exchanger (second heat recovery section) 134b: Second channel 141: High-pressure separator (third container) 141a: 1st inlet 141b: 1st outlet 141c: 2nd outlet 142: Low-pressure separator (fourth container) 142a: 2nd inlet 142b: 3rd outlet 142c: 4th outlet 151: Confluence 153: 1st space 153a: 1st deposition part 154:Second space 154a:Second deposition part 171: Detection unit 200: Refrigeration equipment 205: Control Unit 231: Compressor 232: Expansion mechanism (pressure reduction section) 233: High-pressure side container (first container) 233a: First heat exchanger (first heat recovery section) 233b: First channel 234: Low-pressure side container (second container) 234a: Second heat exchanger (second heat recovery section) 234b: Second channel 241a: 1st inlet 241b: 1st outlet 241c: 2nd outlet 242a: 2nd inlet 242b: Third outlet 242c: 4th outlet 251: Confluence 253: 1st space 253a: 1st deposition part 254:Second space 254a: 2nd deposition part [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0203] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2023 / 0417459

Claims

1. A refrigeration system having a refrigerant circuit in which a refrigerant and an adsorbent that adsorbs and desorbs the refrigerant in response to changes in the pressure of the refrigerant are circulated, Compressor (131, 231), A first container (133, 233) has a first space (153, 253) inside which a first heat recovery section (133a, 233a) is provided for recovering the heat generated when the adsorbent material adsorbs the refrigerant, A second container (134, 234) has a second space (154, 254) inside which a second heat recovery section (134a, 234a) is provided for recovering the cold energy generated when the adsorbent desorbs the refrigerant, A pressure reducing unit (132, 232) for reducing the pressure of the refrigerant, A separation unit for separating the refrigerant and the adsorbent, A confluence section (151, 251) is provided for combining the refrigerant separated in the separation section and the adsorbent separated in the separation section. Equipped with, The first space includes a first accumulation section (153a, 253a) for accumulating the adsorbent during operation of the refrigeration device. The second space includes a second accumulation section (154a, 254a) for accumulating the adsorbent during operation of the refrigeration device. The first deposition section overlaps with the first heat recovery section, The second deposition section overlaps with the second heat recovery section. Refrigeration equipment (100, 200).

2. The separation unit includes a third container (141) and a fourth container (142), The third container is, A first inlet (141a) is connected to the aforementioned confluence, A first outlet (141b) connected to the aforementioned pressure reduction section, A second outlet (141c) connected to the first container, It has, The fourth container is, A second inlet (142a) connected to the first container, A third outlet (142b) is connected to the suction side of the compressor, A fourth outlet (142c) is connected to the second container, Having, The refrigeration apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The system further comprises a control unit (105) for controlling the refrigerant circuit, The control unit, The height of the upper end of the first accumulation section is controlled to be the same as the height of the upper end of the first heat recovery section, or to be higher than the height of the upper end of the first heat recovery section. The height of the upper end of the second deposition section is controlled to be the same as the height of the upper end of the second heat recovery section, or to be higher than the height of the upper end of the second heat recovery section. The refrigeration apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The control unit, The entire upper surface of the first deposition section is controlled to be located above the first heat recovery section. The entire upper surface of the second deposition section is controlled to be located above the second heat recovery section. The refrigeration apparatus according to claim 3.

5. The first container has the separation section in the first space, The second container has the separation portion in the second space, The first container is, A first inlet (241a) connected to the aforementioned confluence, A first outlet (241b) connected to the aforementioned pressure reduction section, A second outlet (241c) connected to the second container, It has, The second container is, A second inlet (242a) is connected to the second outlet, A third outlet (242b) is connected to the suction side of the compressor, A fourth outlet (242c) is connected to the aforementioned confluence, Having, The refrigeration apparatus according to claim 1.

6. The system further comprises a control unit (205) for controlling the refrigerant circuit, The control unit, The height of the upper end of the first accumulation section is controlled to be the same as the height of the upper end of the first heat recovery section, or to be higher than the height of the upper end of the first heat recovery section. The height of the upper end of the second deposition section is controlled to be the same as the height of the upper end of the second heat recovery section, or to be higher than the height of the upper end of the second heat recovery section. The refrigeration apparatus according to claim 1 or 5.

7. The control unit, The height of the upper end of the first deposit section is controlled to be lower than the height of the lower end of the first outlet. The height of the upper end of the second deposit section is controlled to be lower than the height of the lower end of the third outlet. The refrigeration apparatus according to claim 6.

8. The first heat recovery unit has a first flow path (133b, 233b) through which a heat transfer medium for recovering the heat flows, The second heat recovery unit has a second flow path (134b, 234b) through which the heat transfer medium for recovering the cold energy flows. A refrigeration apparatus according to any one of claims 1, 2, and 5.

9. The first flow path has a flow path through which the heat transfer medium flows in a direction opposite to the flow direction of the adsorbent in the first space, The second flow path has a flow path through which the heat transfer medium flows in the direction opposite to the flow direction of the adsorbent in the second space. The refrigeration apparatus according to claim 8.

10. The device further includes a detection unit (171) for detecting the amount of the adsorbent material accumulated in the first or second deposition section. A refrigeration apparatus according to any one of claims 1, 2, and 5.

11. The detection unit is a temperature sensor. The refrigeration apparatus according to claim 10.

12. The detection unit is a float switch mechanism, The float switch mechanism has a float configured to move in a predetermined direction in response to a change in the amount of adsorbent accumulated in the first or second accumulation section. The refrigeration apparatus according to claim 10.

13. The adsorbent includes a metal-organic structure containing metal ions and an organic ligand. A refrigeration apparatus according to any one of claims 1, 2, and 5.

14. 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, 2, and 5.

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