Temperature Control System

Abstract

To make it possible to restrain condensation from forming on a surface of a battery.SOLUTION: A temperature regulation system comprises a mechanism for circulating air between a freezing / refrigerating chamber (3a) provided in a moving body (1) and a battery installation space (50a) in which a battery (B) is installed. The mechanism includes a circulation passage (60) for sending air in the freezing / refrigerating chamber (3a) to the freezing / refrigerating chamber (3a) after passing it through the battery installation space (50a).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a temperature adjustment system. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an in-vehicle storage battery unit. The in-vehicle storage battery unit is mounted on a refrigerated vehicle. The refrigerated vehicle includes a freezer / refrigerator compartment, a dry compartment, and a refrigeration device. The in-vehicle storage battery unit includes a storage battery and a storage cover. The storage battery is disposed inside the storage cover. The storage cover has a first door. A second door is provided on a wall that separates the freezer / refrigerator compartment from the dry compartment. When the first door and the second door are opened, cold air inside the freezer / refrigerator compartment flows into the storage cover through a gap formed by opening the first door, and heat inside the storage cover is discharged to the outside of the storage cover through a gap formed by opening the second door. This makes it possible to suppress a rise in temperature inside the storage cover in which the storage battery is stored. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2017-114385 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The air inside the refrigerator / freezer compartment is extremely cold, so the humidity (absolute humidity) is extremely low and the possibility of freezing or condensation is low. However, when the cold air inside the refrigerator / freezer compartment flows into the inside of the storage cover, negative pressure can be created, causing outside air to flow into the refrigerator / freezer compartment. In this case, the inflow of moist outside air can cause condensation on the surface of the storage battery.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to suppress the formation of condensation on the surface of a battery. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The temperature adjustment system of the first aspect includes a mechanism for circulating air between a freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) provided in a mobile body (1) and a battery mounting space (50a) in which a battery (B) is mounted. The mechanism includes a circulation passage (60) for sending the air of the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) to the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) after passing through the battery mounting space (50a), and a temperature adjustment unit for adjusting the temperature of the air in the battery mounting space (50a) or the temperature of the battery (B) to a predetermined temperature or higher that is higher than the air temperature of the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a).

[0007] In the first aspect, it is possible to suppress the formation of condensation on the surface of the battery (B).

[0008] In a second embodiment, in the first embodiment, the circulation passage (60) communicates with each of the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a) and the battery mounting space (50a) at least two locations (61b, 62b, 61a, 62a).

[0009] In the second aspect, among a plurality of communication points between the circulation passage (60) and the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a), one communication point can be used to send the air in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) into the circulation passage (60), and the other communication point can be used to send the air in the circulation passage (60) into the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a).

[0010] In a third aspect, in the first or second aspect, the circulation passage (60) includes a first passage (61) and a second passage (62) communicating with the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and the battery mounting space (50a), and the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a), the first passage (61), the battery mounting space (50a), and the second passage (62) are connected in a circular manner in the order of the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a), the first passage (61), the battery mounting space (50a), the second passage (62), and the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a).

[0011] In the third aspect, the air in the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a) can be sent to the battery mounting space (50a) through the first passage (61) and then returned to the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a) through the second passage (62).

[0012] In a fourth aspect, in any one of the first to third aspects, the mechanism includes a first adjustment part that adjusts the amount of air flowing through the circulation passage (60).

[0013] In the fourth aspect, the amount of cooled air sent from the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a) to the battery mounting space (50a) is adjusted, so that the temperature of the air in the battery mounting space (50a) can be adjusted to a temperature suitable for storing the battery (B).

[0014] A fifth aspect is the fourth aspect, wherein the first adjustment section includes a blower (70) or a damper (76, 77, 78, 80, 81, 82, 83).

[0015] In the fifth aspect, the amount of cooled air sent from the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a) to the battery mounting space (50a) can be adjusted by the air blower (70) or the dampers (76, 77, 78, 80, 81, 82, 83).

[0016] In a sixth aspect, in any one of the first to fifth aspects, the circulation passage (60) is provided with a heating section (74) that is arranged upstream of the battery mounting space (50a) and heats the air.

[0017] In the sixth aspect, the temperature of the air sent from the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a) to the battery mounting space (50a) can be prevented from becoming too low, and as a result, the temperature of the air in the battery mounting space (50a) can be adjusted to a temperature suitable for storing the battery (B).

[0018] In a seventh aspect, in any one of the first to sixth aspects, the mechanism includes a second adjustment unit that adjusts the amount of air sent from the circulation passage (60) to the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a).

[0019] In the seventh aspect, when the temperature of the air in the circulation passage (60) becomes too high, the amount of air sent from the circulation passage (60) to the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) is reduced by the second adjustment unit, thereby preventing a sudden increase in temperature in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a). This makes it possible to prevent an increase in the thermal load of the refrigeration device (10) for the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a).

[0020] An eighth aspect is the seventh aspect, wherein the second adjustment section includes a blower (70) or a damper (77, 81).

[0021] In the eighth aspect, the amount of air sent from the air blower (70) or the dampers (77, 81) to the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a) can be adjusted.

[0022] A ninth aspect is any one of the first to eighth aspects, further comprising an agitation unit (73) that is provided in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and agitates the air in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a), and the agitation unit (73) is positioned so as to agitate the air sent from the battery mounting space (50a) to the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a).

[0023] In the ninth aspect, the air in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) is agitated by the agitator (73), whereby it is possible to prevent unevenness in the air temperature in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a).

[0024] A tenth aspect is any one of the first to ninth aspects, comprising a refrigeration unit (10) capable of performing freezing operation by circulating a refrigerant, the refrigeration unit (10) including a heat exchanger (21) that exchanges heat between the refrigerant and the air in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a), and the heat exchanger (21) is disposed in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) near a communication point (62b, 64b) between the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and the circulation passage (60).

[0025] In the tenth aspect, the air sent to the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) can be quickly cooled by the heat exchanger (21), thereby making it possible to prevent unevenness in the air temperature in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a).

[0026] An eleventh aspect is the third aspect, wherein the circulation passage (60) includes a third passage (63) communicating with the first passage (61) and the second passage (62).

[0027] In the eleventh aspect, air warmed by heat generated by the battery (B) is sent to the first passage (61) through the third passage (63), and the warmed air mixes with cooled air sent from the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a) to the battery mounting space (50a) through the first passage (61), thereby preventing excessively cooled air from being sent to the battery mounting space (50a). As a result, the battery (B) in the battery mounting space (50a) can be prevented from becoming excessively cold.

[0028] In a twelfth aspect, in any one of the first to tenth aspects, the circulation passage (60) includes an annular fourth passage (64) communicating with the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) at at least two points (64a, 64b), and a fifth passage (65) and a sixth passage (66) communicating with the fourth passage (64) and the battery mounting space (50a), and the fourth passage (64), the fifth passage (65), the battery mounting space (50a), and the sixth passage (66) are connected in an annular shape in the order of the fourth passage (64), the fifth passage (65), the battery mounting space (50a), the sixth passage (66), and the fourth passage (64).

[0029] In the twelfth aspect, in the circulation passageway (60), the temperature of the air sent to the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a) and the temperature of the air sent to the battery mounting space (50a) can be adjusted in the fourth passageway (64).

[0030] In a thirteenth aspect, in the twelfth aspect, the mechanism includes a switching unit (80, 81, 82, 83) which switches whether the fourth passage (64) is blocked from each of the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a), the fifth passage (65), and the sixth passage (66), and a blower unit (70) which is provided in the fourth passage (64) and blows air.

[0031] In the thirteenth aspect, the timing for adjusting the temperature of the air in the fourth passage (64) can be controlled.

[0032] A fourteenth aspect is any one of the first to thirteenth aspects, wherein the battery mounting space (50a) is provided in the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a), below the moving body (1), or inside the moving body (1).

[0033] In the fourteenth aspect, a battery (B) can be mounted in the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a), under the moving body (1), or inside the moving body (1).

[0034] In a fifteenth aspect, in any one of the first to fourteenth aspects, the temperature adjustment system includes a refrigeration device (10) that adjusts the temperature in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a), and a control unit (72) that controls the operation of the refrigeration device (10) based on the amount or temperature of air sent from the circulation passage (60) to the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a).

[0035] In the fifteenth aspect, the refrigeration system (10) can be operated efficiently based on the amount or temperature of air from the circulation passage (60). [Brief description of the drawings]

[0036] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a moving object. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the refrigeration device. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a first embodiment of the temperature adjustment system. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the temperature adjustment system. [Diagram 5] Figures 5(a) and 5(b) are schematic diagrams showing a temperature adjustment system according to a second embodiment, and Figure 5(c) is a schematic diagram showing a temperature adjustment system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 6] 6(a) and 6(b) are schematic diagrams showing a fourth embodiment of the temperature adjustment system. [Figure 7]FIG. 7 is a flow diagram showing a second example of the operation of the temperature adjustment system. [Figure 8] 8(a) and 8(b) are schematic diagrams showing a fifth embodiment of the temperature adjustment system. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flow diagram showing a third example of the operation of the temperature adjustment system. [Figure 10] 10(a) to 10(c) are schematic diagrams showing a sixth embodiment of the temperature adjustment system. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing a fourth example of the operation of the temperature adjustment system. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing a seventh embodiment of the temperature adjustment system. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a flow diagram showing a fifth example of the operation of the temperature adjustment system. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a flow chart showing a fifth example of the operation of the temperature adjustment system. [Figure 15] 15(a) and 15(b) are diagrams showing modified examples of the location of the battery mounting space. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0037] Hereinafter, the embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments shown below, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present disclosure. Since each drawing is intended to conceptually explain the present disclosure, dimensions, ratios, or numbers may be exaggerated or simplified as necessary for easy understanding. In each embodiment, modified example, and drawing, the same or equivalent parts are given the same reference symbols, and detailed descriptions and descriptions of the accompanying effects will not be repeated.

[0038] <Mobile object> As shown in FIG. 1, a moving body (1) according to the first embodiment is a truck. The moving body (1) is a refrigerated vehicle having a cabin (2) and a cold storage (3) provided behind the cabin (2). A driver's cab (2a) is formed inside the cabin (2). A freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a) is formed in the cold storage (3). Cargo such as food is stored in the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a). The temperature inside the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a) is set to a temperature suitable for freezing or refrigerating the stored items. The temperature inside the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a) is, for example, below freezing. The temperature inside the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a) may be, for example, -30°C. The temperature inside the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a) is low in humidity (absolute humidity) due to its low temperature. The moving body (1) has a refrigeration device (10) for cooling the air inside the cold storage (3).

[0039] <Overall configuration of refrigeration equipment> As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the refrigeration system (10) has a refrigerant circuit (R) filled with a refrigerant. The refrigerant circuit (R) performs a vapor compression refrigeration cycle. The refrigeration system (10) has a first unit (11) and a second unit (20). The first unit (11) is disposed above the cabin (2). The first unit (11) constitutes a heat source unit located in the outdoor space (O). The second unit (20) is disposed in the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a). The second unit (20) constitutes a cooling unit.

[0040] The first unit (11) includes a compressor (12), an outdoor heat exchanger (13), an outdoor fan (14), and an outdoor motor that rotates the outdoor fan (14). The second unit (20) includes an indoor heat exchanger (21), an indoor fan (22), and an indoor motor that rotates the indoor fan (22).

[0041] <Refrigerant circuit configuration> As shown in FIG. 2, the refrigerant circuit (R) includes, as main components, a compressor (12), an outdoor heat exchanger (13), an indoor heat exchanger (21), and an expansion valve (23).

[0042] The compressor (12) compresses the sucked refrigerant and discharges the compressed refrigerant. The compressor (12) is a scroll type, a rotary type, a swing piston type, or the like. The compressor (12) is connected in series to a gas end of the outdoor heat exchanger (13) via a discharge pipe (15).

[0043] The outdoor heat exchanger (13) is disposed in the outdoor space (O) or in a flow path through which outdoor air flows. The outdoor heat exchanger (13) exchanges heat between the outdoor air and the refrigerant. The outdoor heat exchanger (13) is of a fin-and-tube type. A liquid end of the outdoor heat exchanger (13) is connected to the first pipe (16).

[0044] The outdoor fan (14) is disposed near the outdoor heat exchanger (13). The outdoor fan (14) transports the outdoor air so that the outdoor air flows through the outdoor heat exchanger (13).

[0045] One end of the second pipe (17) is connected to the first pipe (16). The other end of the second pipe (17) is connected to a suction pipe (18) of the compressor (12).

[0046] An expansion valve (23) and an internal heat exchanger (21) are connected to the second pipe (17) in that order from the liquid side to the gas side. The expansion valve (23) is an electronic expansion valve whose opening is adjustable.

[0047] The internal heat exchanger (21) is of a fin-and-tube type. The internal heat exchanger (21) is installed in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a). The internal heat exchanger (21) exchanges heat between the air in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and the refrigerant. As a result, the temperature of the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) is adjusted.

[0048] The internal fan (22) is disposed near the internal heat exchanger (21). The internal fan (22) transports the air in the freezing / refrigerating compartment (3a) so that the air in the freezing / refrigerating compartment (3a) flows through the internal heat exchanger (21).

[0049] <Operation of refrigeration equipment> The basic operation (freezing operation) of the refrigeration system (10) will be described with reference to FIG.

[0050] The refrigerant compressed by the compressor (12) flows through the outdoor heat exchanger (13). In the outdoor heat exchanger (13), the refrigerant dissipates heat to the outdoor air and is condensed. The condensed refrigerant flows through the first pipe (16) and into the second pipe (17).

[0051] The refrigerant that has flowed into the second pipe (17) is reduced in pressure by the expansion valve (23) and then flows through the internal heat exchanger (21). In the internal heat exchanger (21), the refrigerant absorbs heat from the air in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and evaporates. As a result, the air in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) is cooled by the internal heat exchanger (21).

[0052] The refrigerant evaporated in the internal heat exchanger (21) is sucked into the compressor (12) through the suction pipe (18) and compressed again.

[0053] First Embodiment A first embodiment of the temperature adjustment system will be described.

[0054] The temperature adjustment system adjusts the temperature of a battery mounting space (50a) in which a battery (B) is mounted.

[0055] The battery (B) is a power source for the refrigeration system (10). As shown in Fig. 1, the battery (B) is connected to the first unit (11) and the second unit (20) by lead wires (L) and supplies power to various components of the refrigeration system (10) through the lead wires (L). As a result, the first unit (11) and the second unit (20) are operated.

[0056] The battery (B) is a secondary battery, such as a nickel-metal hydride battery, a lithium-ion battery, or a lead-acid battery. The battery (B) is charged, for example, by a commercial power source and a charger. AC power from the commercial power source is supplied to the charger. The charger converts the AC power from the commercial power source into DC power. The DC power converted by the charger is supplied to the battery (B), thereby charging the battery (B). The battery (B) may be charged by an engine, a generator, and a power generation inverter. The engine is an internal combustion engine, and rotates the wheels (X) of the truck, which is the mobile body (1), by converting thermal energy generated by the combustion of fuel into rotational energy. A portion of the rotational energy converted from the thermal energy of the engine is supplied to the generator via a power split mechanism using a planetary gear (not shown). The generator generates AC power by converting the rotational energy from the engine into electrical energy. The three-phase AC power is supplied to a power generation inverter. The power generation inverter converts the three-phase AC power from the generator into DC power. The DC power converted by the power generation inverter is supplied to the battery (B), thereby charging the battery (B).

[0057] The temperature adjustment system includes a housing (50). The housing (50) is a hollow member. A battery mounting space (50a) in which a battery (B) is mounted is formed inside the housing (50). The housing (50) includes a thermal insulation material having thermal insulation properties, such as polyurethane foam, glass wool, urethane foam, and vacuum insulation material. The housing (50) is placed in the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a).

[0058] The temperature adjustment system includes a circulation passage (60). The circulation passage (60) circulates air between the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a) and the battery mounting space (50a).

[0059] The circulation passage (60) includes a first passage (61) and a second passage (62) that communicate with the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and the battery mounting space (50a). The freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a), the first passage (61), the battery mounting space (50a), and the second passage (62) are connected in a circular manner in the order of the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a), the first passage (61), the battery mounting space (50a), the second passage (62), and the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a).

[0060] The circulation passage (60) communicates with each of the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and the battery mounting space (50a) at at least two locations to form a passage for circulating air between the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and the battery mounting space (50a). In the first embodiment, the circulation passage (60) communicates with the battery mounting space (50a) at two locations (61a, 62a), and the circulation passage (60) communicates with the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) at two locations (61b, 62b).

[0061] The temperature adjustment system includes a blower (70), a storage unit (71), and a control unit (72).

[0062] The blower (70) circulates air between the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and the battery mounting space (50a) through the circulation passage (60). The blower (70) includes, for example, a fan (70a) and a fan motor (70b) that rotates the fan (70a). The fan (70a) is disposed, for example, in the circulation passage (60). In the first embodiment, the fan (70a) included in the blower (70) is disposed at a communication point (62b) between the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and the second passage (62). The fan motor (70b) adjusts the rotation speed of the fan (70a), thereby adjusting the amount of air flowing through the circulation passage (60), and further adjusting the amount of air sent from the circulation passage (60) to the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and the amount of air sent from the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) to the circulation passage (60). The blower (70) may include a blower.

[0063] The storage unit (71) includes memories such as a read only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a hard disk drive, and an SSD, and stores various computer programs executed by the control unit (72). The control unit (72) includes a processor such as a CPU and an MPU. The control unit (72) controls each component of the temperature adjustment system by executing the computer programs stored in the storage unit (71).

[0064] The temperature adjustment system includes a temperature adjustment unit. The temperature adjustment unit prevents the temperature of the battery (B) from becoming too cold. The temperature adjustment unit makes the temperature of the air in the battery mounting space (50a) or the temperature of the battery (B) higher than a predetermined temperature that is equal to or higher than the temperature of the air in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a). In the first embodiment, the temperature adjustment unit includes an air blower (70) and a control unit (72). In the first embodiment, the temperature adjustment unit adjusts the rotation speed of the fan (70a) by the control unit (72) so that the air sent from the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) to the battery mounting space (50a) by the air blower (70) prevents the temperature of the air in the battery mounting space (50a) or the temperature of the battery (B) from becoming equal to or lower than the predetermined temperature.

[0065] <First example of temperature control system operation> (i) As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the control unit (72) controls the fan motor (70b) to drive (rotate) the fan (70a), whereby cool air from the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) is sent to the battery mounting space (50a) through the first passage (61). When the air reaches the battery mounting space (50a), the temperature of the air increases due to heat generated by the battery (B). This suppresses an increase in the temperature of the battery (B).

[0066] (ii) The air heated in the battery mounting space (50a) is sent to the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) through the second passageway (62), and when it reaches the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a), it mixes with the cold air therein and is thereby cooled.

[0067] As the fan (70a) continues to operate, air circulates between the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and the battery mounting space (50a). This causes the above phenomena (i) and (ii) to be repeated. As a result, cool air from within the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) can be continuously sent to the battery mounting space (50a), so that the temperature rise of the battery (B) can be continuously suppressed. The temperatures of the battery mounting space (50a) and the battery (B) are preferably within a predetermined range suitable for storing the battery (B) (e.g., 0° C. or higher and 30° C. or lower). The control unit (72) controls the fan (70a) (the amount of air flowing through the circulation passage (60)) so that the temperatures of the battery mounting space (50a) and the battery (B) are within the predetermined range. In other words, in the first embodiment, the control unit (72) controls the amount of air flowing through the circulation passage (60), thereby configuring a temperature adjustment unit that sets the temperature of the air in the battery mounting space (50a) or the temperature of the battery (B) to a predetermined temperature or higher that is higher than the air temperature (e.g., 0°C) in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a).

[0068] <Effects> As described above, the circulation passage (60) sends the air from the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) having a low humidity (absolute humidity) to the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) after passing through the battery mounting space (50a). This allows air to circulate between the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and the battery mounting space (50a) by the circulation passage (60). This allows the air pressure in the battery mounting space (50a) to be stably maintained, so that outside air is prevented from flowing into the battery mounting space (50a) due to negative pressure. As a result, it is possible to prevent moisture-containing outside air from flowing into the battery mounting space (50a) and causing condensation on the surface of the battery (B). Furthermore, by circulating air between the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and the battery mounting space (50a) by the circulation passage (60), it is possible to prevent moisture-containing outside air from flowing into the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a), so that the humidity of the air in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) can be kept low.

[0069] As for the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a), air is circulated between the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and the battery mounting space (50a) through the circulation passage (60), so that the air pressure in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) can be stably maintained and outside air can be prevented from flowing into the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a). This makes it possible to prevent an increase in the thermal load of the refrigeration device (10) due to the outside air.

[0070] In addition, by providing the circulation passage (60), it is possible to prevent moisture-laden outside air from flowing into the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a), thereby reducing the frequency of defrosting the internal heat exchanger (21) of the refrigeration system (10) and reducing temperature fluctuations in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a).

[0071] Furthermore, the provision of the temperature adjusting unit makes it possible to maintain the temperature of the air in the battery mounting space (50a) or the temperature of the battery (B) at a predetermined temperature or higher that is higher than the air temperature in the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a), thereby preventing the temperature of the battery (B) from becoming too low, thereby preventing deterioration of the battery (B).

[0072] <Second embodiment> The second embodiment of the temperature adjustment system will be described, focusing mainly on the differences from the first embodiment.

[0073] As shown in Fig. 5(a), the temperature adjustment system of the second embodiment includes an agitation unit (73). The agitation unit (73) agitates the air in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a). The agitation unit (73) includes, for example, an agitation fan (73a) and an agitation motor that rotates the agitation fan (73a). The agitation unit (73) agitates the air in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) by disposing the agitation fan (73a) in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and rotating the agitation fan (73a) using the agitation motor to generate an airflow in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a).

[0074] In the second embodiment, the stirring fan (73a) included in the stirring unit (73) is disposed in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) closer to the communication point (62b) between the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and the second passage (62). Disposing the stirring fan (73a) closer to the communication point (62b) in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) includes not only the case where the stirring fan (73a) is disposed upstream of the communication point (62b) in the airflow formed by the stirring fan (73a) to circulate air in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) (see FIG. 5(a)), but also the case where the stirring fan (73a) is disposed downstream of the communication point (62b) (see FIG. 5(b)). As a result, the agitating section (73) generates an airflow at the communicating point (62b) in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a), so that the air sent to the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) through the second passage (62) and the cold air in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) can be quickly agitated. As a result, the air sent to the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) through the second passage (62) can be effectively cooled.

[0075] The internal fan (22) and the internal motor of the second unit (20) (see FIG. 1) may function as the stirring unit (73). The internal heat exchanger (21) of the second unit (20) may be disposed in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) near the communication point (62b) between the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and the second passage (62). This allows the air sent to the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) to be quickly cooled by the internal heat exchanger (21). As a result, it is possible to prevent unevenness in the air temperature in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a). The temperature adjustment unit of the second embodiment has, for example, a configuration similar to that of the temperature adjustment unit of the first embodiment.

[0076] <Third embodiment> The third embodiment of the temperature adjustment system will be described, focusing mainly on the differences from the first embodiment.

[0077] As shown in FIG. 5(c), the temperature adjustment system of the third embodiment includes a heating section (74). The heating section (74) heats the air sent to the battery mounting space (50a). The heating section (74) is provided in the circulation passage (60) and arranged upstream of the battery mounting space (50a). In the third embodiment, the heating section (74) is arranged in the first passage (61). The heating section (74) includes, for example, a heater. The temperature adjustment section of the third embodiment includes a blower section (70), a control section (72), and a heating section (74). The temperature adjustment section of the third embodiment heats the air sent to the battery mounting space (50a) by the heating section (74), thereby increasing the temperature of the air in the battery mounting space (50a) or the temperature of the battery (B) to a temperature higher than a predetermined temperature that is equal to or higher than the temperature of the air in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a).

[0078] The cold air sent from the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) to the first passage (61) is heated by the heating section (74) and then sent to the battery mounting space (50a). This makes it possible to prevent the temperature of the air sent from the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) to the battery mounting space (50a) from becoming too low. As a result, the temperature of the air in the battery mounting space (50a) can be adjusted to a temperature suitable for storing the battery (B). In the third embodiment, the control section (72) operates the heating section (74) to heat the air sent by the blower section (70) and controls the temperature of the air sent from the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) to the battery mounting space (50a), thereby configuring a temperature adjustment section that sets the temperature of the air in the battery mounting space (50a) or the temperature of the battery (B) to a predetermined temperature or higher that is higher than the temperature of the air in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a).

[0079] <Fourth embodiment> The fourth embodiment of the temperature adjustment system will be described, focusing mainly on the differences from the first embodiment.

[0080] 6(a) and 6(b), the temperature adjustment system of the fourth embodiment includes a first temperature sensor (75), a first damper (76), a first damper motor that rotates the first damper (76), a second damper (77), and a second damper motor that rotates the second damper (77). The temperature adjustment unit of the fourth embodiment includes a blower unit (70), a control unit (72), the first temperature sensor (75), the first damper (76), the first damper motor, the second damper (77), and the second damper motor.

[0081] The first damper (76) is provided at a communication point (61b) between the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and the first passage (61). The first damper motor rotates the first damper (76) to switch the state of the first damper (76) between an open state and a closed state. When the first damper (76) is in the open state, the communication point (61b) is opened (see FIG. 6(a)). As a result, the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and the first passage (61) are in communication with each other. When the first damper (76) is in the closed state, the communication point (61b) is closed by the first damper (76) (see FIG. 6(b)). As a result, the communication between the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and the first passage (61) is blocked by the first damper (76).

[0082] The second damper (77) is provided at a communication location (62c) between the third passage (63) and the second passage (62). The temperature adjustment unit of the fourth embodiment includes the third passage (63). The second damper motor rotates the second damper (77) to switch the state of the second damper (77) between an open state and a closed state. When the second damper (77) is in the open state, the second passage (62) is opened (see FIG. 6(a)). As a result, the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and the second passage (62) are communicated with each other. When the second damper (77) is in the closed state, the third passage (63) and the second passage (62) are communicated with each other, and the portion of the second passage (62) between the communication point (62c) and the communication point (62b) is blocked by the second damper (77), thereby blocking communication between the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a) and the second passage (62) (see FIG. 6(b)).

[0083] The amount of air flowing through the circulation passage (60) is adjusted by adjusting the opening degrees of the first damper (76) and the second damper (77), and further, the amount of air sent from the circulation passage (60) to the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a) is adjusted. The first damper (76) and the second damper (77) are a second example of the first adjustment unit and the second adjustment unit.

[0084] The temperature adjustment system of the fourth embodiment includes a first temperature sensor (75). The first temperature sensor (75) detects the temperature (air temperature) in the battery mounting space (50a).

[0085] The circulation passage (60) of the fourth embodiment includes a third passage (63). The third passage (63) communicates with the first passage (61) and the second passage (62). A communication point (61c) between the third passage (63) and the first passage (61) is located closer to the battery mounting space (50a) than the communication point (61b). A communication point (62c) between the third passage (63) and the second passage (62) is located closer to the battery mounting space (50a) than the communication point (62b).

[0086] In the fourth embodiment, the fan (70a) is disposed in the second passage (62) and is disposed closer to the battery mounting space (50a) than the communication point (62c).

[0087] In the fourth embodiment, the temperature adjustment unit adjusts the amount of air sent from the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) to the battery mounting space (50a) by controlling the air volume of the air blower (70) and the operations of the first damper (76) and the second damper (77) based on the detection value of the first temperature sensor (75) (the temperature of the battery mounting space (50a)) using the control unit (72), thereby making the temperature of the air in the battery mounting space (50a) equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature higher than the temperature of the air in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a). The predetermined temperature may be any temperature higher than the temperature of the air in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a). The predetermined temperature is, for example, a value in the range of 0° C. or higher and 30° C. or lower. The predetermined temperature may be a value obtained by adding a predetermined value to the air temperature in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) detected by a temperature sensor provided in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a), or may be a predetermined constant value (for example, 0° C.). In addition, the temperature adjustment unit of the embodiments other than the fourth embodiment (the first, second, and third embodiments) may also be configured to include a first temperature sensor (75) so that the control unit (72) controls various components of the temperature adjustment unit based on a detection value (the temperature of the battery mounting space (50a)) of the first temperature sensor (75) so that the air temperature in the battery mounting space (50a) becomes equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature that is higher than the air temperature in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a).

[0088] The temperature adjustment unit may adjust the amount of air sent from the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) to the battery mounting space (50a) by controlling the air volume of the air blower (70) and the operations of the first damper (76) and the second damper (77) using the control unit (72) to set the temperature of the battery (B) to a predetermined temperature or higher that is higher than the air temperature in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a). The temperature of the battery (B) may be detected by a temperature sensor provided in the battery (B), or may be calculated by the control unit (72) based on correlation information (such as a table) that is prepared in advance and indicates a correlation between the temperature of the battery mounting space (50a) and the temperature of the battery (B) and the detection value of the first temperature sensor (75). In addition, the temperature adjustment unit of the embodiments other than the fourth embodiment (the first, second, and third embodiments) may also be provided with a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the battery (B) (or may be configured so that the control unit (72) calculates the temperature of the battery (B) based on the above-mentioned correlation information), and the control unit (72) may be configured to control various components of the temperature adjustment unit so that the temperature of the battery (B) detected by the temperature sensor (or the temperature of the battery (B) calculated by the control unit (72)) is equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature that is higher than the air temperature in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a).

[0089] <Second example of temperature control system operation> A second example of the operation of the temperature adjustment system will be described.

[0090] Note that, for each of the second to fifth examples of the operating operation of the temperature adjustment system described below (FIGS. 6(a) to 6(b), 8(a) to 8(b), 10(a) to 10(c), and 12), while the second to fifth examples of the operating operation are being performed, the blower section (70) (fan (70a)) is in operation, causing an air flow to be generated in the circulation passage (60) (see the solid and dotted arrows in each figure).

[0091] As shown in Fig. 6(a) and Fig. 7, in step S11, the control unit (72) sets the dampers to the first state. Setting the dampers to the first state means setting the first damper (76) to the open state and setting the second damper (77) to the open state. This causes the cool air in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) to circulate between the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and the battery mounting space (50a) through the circulation passageway (60). As a result, the temperature in the battery mounting space (50a) is lowered.

[0092] In step S12, the control unit (72) determines whether the value detected by the first temperature sensor (75) (the temperature of the battery mounting space (50a)) is equal to or lower than a first predetermined temperature. If it is determined that the temperature is equal to or lower than the first predetermined temperature (Yes in step S12), the process proceeds to step S13. If it is determined that the temperature is not equal to or lower than the first predetermined temperature (No in step S12), the process of step S12 is repeated.

[0093] As shown in FIG. 6(b) and FIG. 7, in step S13, the control unit (72) puts the dampers in the second state. Putting the dampers in the second state means putting the first damper (76) in the closed state and putting the second damper (77) in the closed state. This blocks communication between the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and the circulation passageway (60), and the air is not cooled in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and circulates through the first passageway (61), the second passageway (62), the third passageway (63), and the first passageway (61) in that order. As a result, the temperature of the battery mounting space (50a) increases over time due to heat generated by the battery (B).

[0094] In step S14, the control unit (72) determines whether the detection value of the first temperature sensor (75) (the temperature of the battery mounting space (50a)) is equal to or higher than a second predetermined temperature. The second predetermined temperature is higher than the first predetermined temperature. If it is determined that the temperature is equal to or higher than the second predetermined temperature (Yes in step S14), the process proceeds to step S11. If it is determined that the temperature is not equal to or higher than the second predetermined temperature (No in step S14), the process shown in step S14 is repeated.

[0095] With the above-mentioned configuration, the temperature of the battery mounting space (50a) can be maintained higher than the first predetermined temperature and lower than the second predetermined temperature, and as a result, the temperature of the battery mounting space (50a) can be maintained at a suitable temperature that is neither too low nor too high for the battery (B).

[0096] <Modification of the Fourth Embodiment> In step S12, if the control unit (72) determines that the first predetermined time has elapsed since the damper was put into the first state (Yes in step S12), the process proceeds to step S13, and if the control unit (72) determines that the first predetermined time has not elapsed (No in step S12), the process shown in step S12 may be repeated. In this case, the control unit (72) functions as a timer. The first predetermined time is a time during which the detection value of the first temperature sensor (75) (the temperature of the battery mounting space (50a)) becomes equal to or lower than the first predetermined temperature due to cold air from the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a). The first predetermined time may be a constant value. The first predetermined time may be a value according to the temperature of the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a), the DC power supplied from the battery (B), or the like. In this case, for example, a table in which the first predetermined time is associated with the temperature of the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) or the DC power supplied from the battery (B) is created in advance. Then, in step S12, the control unit (72) acquires information indicating the temperature of the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a) or the DC power supplied from the battery (B), and adopts the first predetermined time period in the table corresponding to the acquired information.

[0097] In step S14, if the control unit (72) determines that the second predetermined time has elapsed since the damper was put into the second state (Yes in step S14), the process proceeds to step S11, and if the control unit (72) determines that the second predetermined time has not elapsed (No in step S14), the process of step S14 may be repeated. The second predetermined time is the time during which the detection value of the first temperature sensor (75) becomes equal to or higher than the second predetermined temperature due to heat generation from the battery (B).

[0098] <Fifth embodiment> The fifth embodiment of the temperature adjustment system will be described, focusing mainly on the differences from the fourth embodiment.

[0099] 8(a) and 8(b), the temperature adjustment system of the fifth embodiment includes a third damper (78) and a third damper motor that rotates the third damper (78). The temperature adjustment unit of the fifth embodiment further includes a third damper (78) and a third damper motor in addition to the components of the temperature adjustment unit of the fourth embodiment.

[0100] The third damper (78) is provided at a communication point (62b) between the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a) and the second passage (62). The third damper (78) is located downstream of the second damper (77). The third damper motor rotates the third damper (78) to switch the state of the third damper (78) between an open state and a closed state. When the third damper (78) is in the open state, the communication point (62b) is opened (see FIG. 8(a)). When the third damper (78) is in the closed state, the communication point (62b) is closed by the third damper (78) (see FIG. 8(b)).

[0101] In the fifth embodiment, an agitating fan (73a) of an agitating part (73) is provided in a location in the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a) close to the communication point (62b).

[0102] In the fifth embodiment, in addition to the configuration of the temperature adjustment unit in the fourth embodiment, the temperature adjustment unit further operates a third damper (78) by the control unit (72) to adjust the amount of air sent from the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) to the battery mounting space (50a) so that the temperature of the air in the battery mounting space (50a) or the temperature of the battery (B) is equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature that is higher than the air temperature in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a).

[0103] <Third example of temperature control system operation> 8(a) and 9, in step S21, the control unit (72) sets the dampers to the third state. Setting the dampers to the third state means setting the first damper (76) to the open state, the third damper (78) to the open state, and the second damper (77) to the open state. When the dampers are in the third state, the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and the circulation passageway (60) communicate with each other, so that the cold air in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) circulates between the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and the battery mounting space (50a) through the circulation passageway (60).

[0104] At this time, the air heated in the battery mounting space (50a) due to heat generated by the battery (B) is sent to the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) through the second passage (62). Immediately after the heated air flows into the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a), the air is exposed to the cold air from the agitator (73) in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and is mixed with the cold air, thereby being cooled. This makes it possible to prevent unevenness in the air temperature in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a).

[0105] In step S22, the control unit (72) determines whether the value detected by the first temperature sensor (75) (the temperature of the battery mounting space (50a)) is equal to or lower than a first predetermined temperature. If it is determined that the temperature is equal to or lower than the first predetermined temperature (Yes in step S22), the process proceeds to step S23. If it is determined that the temperature is not equal to or lower than the first predetermined temperature (No in step S22), the process of step S22 is repeated.

[0106] As shown in FIG. 8(b) and FIG. 9, in step S23, the control unit (72) puts the dampers in the fourth state. Putting the dampers in the fourth state means putting the first damper (76) in the closed state, the third damper (78) in the closed state, and the second damper (77) in the closed state. This blocks communication between the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and the circulation passage (60), and the air is not cooled in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and circulates through the first passage (61), the second passage (62), the third passage (63), and the first passage (61) in that order. As a result, the temperature of the battery mounting space (50a) increases over time due to heat generated by the battery (B).

[0107] In step S24, the control unit (72) determines whether the value detected by the first temperature sensor (75) (the temperature of the battery mounting space (50a)) is equal to or higher than the second predetermined temperature. If it is determined that the temperature is equal to or higher than the second predetermined temperature (Yes in step S24), the process proceeds to step S21. If it is determined that the temperature is not equal to or higher than the second predetermined temperature (No in step S24), the process of step S24 is repeated.

[0108] With the above-mentioned configuration, the temperature of the battery mounting space (50a) can be maintained higher than the first predetermined temperature and lower than the second predetermined temperature, and as a result, the temperature of the battery mounting space (50a) can be maintained at a suitable temperature that is neither too low nor too high for the battery (B).

[0109] Furthermore, in the third example of the operation of the temperature adjustment system, unlike the second example (see FIG. 6(a)), when the damper is in the third state (see FIG. 8(a)), the second damper (77) blocks communication between the third passage (63) and the second passage (62). As a result, in the fifth embodiment, when air heated by heat generated by the battery (B) (heated air) is sent to the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) through the second passage (62), all of the heated air is sent to the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) without a part of the heated air branching off to flow through the third passage (63). Therefore, a larger amount of heated air is sent to the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) than in the fourth embodiment (see FIG. 6(a)). In the fifth embodiment, a large amount of heated air (dotted arrow in FIG. 8(a)) is sent to the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a), and cold air is applied to the air by the agitator (73) (solid arrow in FIG. 8(a)) immediately after the air is sent to the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a). This makes it possible to effectively cool the heated air. As a result, the process of step S21 shown in FIG. 8(a) (process of cooling the air in the battery mounting space (50a)) can be effectively performed.

[0110] <Modification of the Fifth Embodiment> In step S22, if the control unit (72) determines that a first predetermined time has elapsed since the damper was put into the third state (Yes in step S22), the process proceeds to step S23, and if it determines that the first predetermined time has not elapsed (No in step S22), the process shown in step S22 may be repeated.

[0111] In step S24, if the control unit (72) determines that a second predetermined time has elapsed since the damper was put into the second state (Yes in step S24), the process proceeds to step S21, and if it determines that the second predetermined time has not elapsed (No in step S24), the process shown in step S24 may be repeated.

[0112] Sixth embodiment The sixth embodiment of the temperature adjustment system will be described, focusing mainly on the differences from the first embodiment.

[0113] As shown in FIGS. 10(a) to 10(c), the circulation passage (60) of the sixth embodiment includes a fourth passage (64), a fifth passage (65), and a sixth passage (66). The fourth passage (64) is formed in an annular shape. The fourth passage (64) communicates with the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) at least two locations. In the sixth embodiment, the fourth passage (64) communicates with the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) at two locations (64a, 64b). Each of the fifth passage (65) and the sixth passage (66) communicates with the fourth passage (64) and the battery mounting space (50a). The fourth passage (64), the fifth passage (65), the battery mounting space (50a), and the sixth passage (66) are connected in a circular manner in the order of the fourth passage (64), the fifth passage (65), the battery mounting space (50a), the sixth passage (66), and the fourth passage (64).

[0114] The temperature adjustment system of the sixth embodiment includes a blower (70), a first temperature sensor (75), a fourth damper (80), a fourth damper motor that rotates the fourth damper (80), a fifth damper (81), a fifth damper motor that rotates the fifth damper (81), a sixth damper (82), a sixth damper motor that rotates the sixth damper (82), a seventh damper (83), and a seventh damper motor that rotates the seventh damper (83). The fourth damper (80) to the seventh damper (83) are examples of a switching unit. The temperature adjustment unit of the sixth embodiment includes an air blower (70), a control unit (72), a first temperature sensor (75), a second temperature sensor (79), a fourth damper (80), a fourth damper motor, a fifth damper (81), a fifth damper motor, a sixth damper (82), a sixth damper motor, a seventh damper (83), and a seventh damper motor. In the sixth embodiment, the temperature adjustment unit adjusts the amount of air sent from the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) to the battery mounting space (50a) by controlling the air volume of the air blower (70) and the operations of the fourth damper (80), the fifth damper (81), the sixth damper (82), and the seventh damper (83) by the control unit (72), thereby making the temperature of the air in the battery mounting space (50a) or the temperature of the battery (B) equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature higher than the air temperature in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a).

[0115] In the sixth embodiment, the fan (70a) of the blower (70) is disposed in the fourth passage (64). The first temperature sensor (75) detects the temperature (air temperature) in the battery mounting space (50a). The second temperature sensor (79) detects the temperature (air temperature) in the fourth passage (64).

[0116] The fourth damper motor rotates the fourth damper (80) to switch the state of the fourth damper (80) between an open state and a closed state. When the fourth damper (80) is in the open state, the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) communicates with the fourth passage (64) (see FIG. 10(a)). When the fourth damper (80) is in the closed state, the fourth damper (80) blocks communication between the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and the fourth passage (64) (see FIGS. 10(b) and 10(c)).

[0117] The fifth damper motor rotates the fifth damper (81) to switch the state of the fifth damper (81) between an open state and a closed state. When the fifth damper (81) is in the open state, the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) communicates with the fourth passage (64) (see FIG. 10(a)). When the fifth damper (81) is in the closed state, the fifth damper (81) blocks communication between the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and the fourth passage (64) (see FIGS. 10(b) and 10(c)).

[0118] The sixth damper motor rotates the sixth damper (82) to switch the state of the sixth damper (82) between an open state and a closed state. When the sixth damper (82) is in the open state, the fifth passage (65) and the fourth passage (64) communicate with each other (see FIG. 10(c)). When the sixth damper (82) is in the closed state, the sixth damper (82) blocks communication between the fifth passage (65) and the fourth passage (64) (see FIGS. 10(a) and 10(b)).

[0119] The seventh damper motor rotates the seventh damper (83) to switch the state of the seventh damper (83) between an open state and a closed state. When the seventh damper (83) is in the open state, the sixth passage (66) and the fourth passage (64) communicate with each other (see FIG. 10(c)). When the seventh damper (83) is in the closed state, the seventh damper (83) blocks communication between the sixth passage (66) and the fourth passage (64) (see FIGS. 10(a) and 10(b)).

[0120] <Fourth example of temperature control system operation> As shown in Figures 10(a) and 11, in step S31, the control unit (72) puts the dampers in the fifth state. Putting the dampers in the fifth state means putting the fourth damper (80) in the open state, the fifth damper (81) in the open state, the sixth damper (82) in the closed state, and the seventh damper (83) in the closed state. When the dampers are in the fifth state, the cold air in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) is sent to the fourth passageway (64).

[0121] In step S32, the control unit (72) determines whether or not the value detected by the second temperature sensor (79) (the temperature of the fourth passage (64)) is equal to or lower than a third predetermined temperature. That is, the control unit (72) determines whether or not the temperature of the air in the fourth passage (64) has decreased as a result of the cold air of the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) being supplied to the fourth passage (64). If it is determined that the temperature is equal to or lower than the third predetermined temperature (Yes in step S32), the process proceeds to step S33. If it is determined that the temperature is not equal to or lower than the third predetermined temperature (No in step S32), the process shown in step S32 is repeated.

[0122] As shown in FIG. 10(b) and FIG. 11, in step S33, the control unit (72) puts the dampers in the sixth state. Putting the dampers in the sixth state means putting the fourth damper (80) in the closed state, the fifth damper (81) in the closed state, the sixth damper (82) in the closed state, and the seventh damper (83) in the closed state. When the dampers are in the sixth state, the fourth passage (64) is closed, and air circulates through the fourth passage (64). At this time, the air in the fourth passage (64) is heated by the transfer of heat from the passages (the fifth passage (65) and the sixth passage (66)) on the battery mounting space (50a) side.

[0123] In step S34, the control unit (72) determines whether the detection value of the second temperature sensor (79) has reached a fourth predetermined temperature. That is, the control unit (72) determines whether the temperature of the overcooled air sent from the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a) to the fourth passage (64) has reached a fourth predetermined temperature suitable for cooling the battery (B). The fourth predetermined temperature is higher than the third predetermined temperature. The fourth predetermined temperature may be a constant temperature or may be a temperature range having an upper limit and a lower limit. If it is determined that the fourth predetermined temperature has been reached (Yes in step S34), the process proceeds to step S35. If it is determined that the fourth predetermined temperature has not been reached (No in step S34), the process shown in step S34 is repeated.

[0124] As shown in FIG. 10(c) and FIG. 11, in step S35, the control unit (72) sets the dampers to the seventh state. Setting the dampers to the seventh state means setting the fourth damper (80) to a closed state, the fifth damper (81) to a closed state, the sixth damper (82) to an open state, and the seventh damper (83) to an open state. When the dampers are in the seventh state, the air in the fourth passage (64) is sent to the battery mounting space (50a) through the fifth passage (65), so that the temperature of the air in the battery mounting space (50a) decreases. As a result, the temperature rise of the battery (B) can be effectively suppressed.

[0125] In step S36, the control unit (72) determines whether or not the detection value of the second temperature sensor (79) is equal to or higher than a fifth predetermined temperature. That is, the control unit (72) determines whether or not the temperatures of the air flowing through the fourth passage (64), the fifth passage (65), the battery mounting space (50a), and the sixth passage (66) have risen to a certain degree due to heat generation by the battery (B). The fifth predetermined temperature is higher than the fourth predetermined temperature. If it is determined that the temperature is equal to or higher than the fifth predetermined temperature (Yes in step S36), the process proceeds to step S37. If it is determined that the temperature is not equal to or higher than the fifth predetermined temperature (No in step S36), the process shown in step S36 is repeated.

[0126] As shown in Figures 10(b) and 11, in step S37, the control unit (72) puts the damper in the sixth state. When the damper is in the sixth state, the fourth passage (64) is closed, and air circulates through the fourth passage (64). At this time, heat of the air in the fourth passage (64) is transferred to the low-temperature freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a), and the temperature of the air in the fourth passage (64) decreases.

[0127] In step S38, the control section (72) determines whether or not the detected value of the second temperature sensor (79) is equal to or lower than a sixth predetermined temperature. That is, the control section (72) determines whether or not the temperature of the air, which has been raised by the heat generated by the battery (B), has dropped to a certain degree. The sixth predetermined temperature is lower than the fifth predetermined temperature. If it is determined to be equal to or lower than the sixth predetermined temperature (Yes in step S38), the process proceeds to step S31. If it is determined not to be equal to or higher than the sixth predetermined temperature (No in step S38), the process shown in step S38 is repeated.

[0128] As shown in Fig. 10(a) and Fig. 11, in step S31, the damper is put into the fifth state, and the air in the fourth passage (64) is sent to the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a). At this time, in step S37, the temperature of the air in the fourth passage (64) is lowered to a certain degree, and the air whose temperature has been lowered to a certain degree is sent to the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) in step S31, so that a sudden increase in the temperature in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) can be suppressed. As a result, the low temperature state of the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) can be stably maintained. Furthermore, since a sudden increase in the temperature in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) can be suppressed, an increase in the thermal load of the refrigeration device (10) can be suppressed.

[0129] <Modification of the Sixth Embodiment> If the control unit (72) determines in step S32 that the third predetermined time has elapsed since the damper was put in the fifth state (Yes in step S32), the process proceeds to step S33, and if the control unit (72) determines that the third predetermined time has not elapsed (No in step S32), the process of step S32 may be repeated. The third predetermined time is the time during which the detection value of the second temperature sensor (79) (the temperature of the fourth passage (64)) becomes equal to or lower than the third predetermined temperature due to cold air from the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a).

[0130] If the control unit (72) determines in step S34 that the fourth predetermined time has elapsed since the damper was put in the sixth state (Yes in step S34), the process proceeds to step S35, and if the control unit (72) determines that the fourth predetermined time has not elapsed (No in step S34), the process of step S34 may be repeated. The fourth predetermined time is the time during which heat generated by the battery (B) is transmitted to the fourth passage (64) so ​​that the detection value of the second temperature sensor (79) becomes the fourth predetermined temperature.

[0131] If the control unit (72) determines in step S36 that a fifth predetermined time has elapsed since the damper was put in the seventh state (Yes in step S36), the process proceeds to step S37, and if the control unit (72) determines that the fourth predetermined time has not elapsed (No in step S36), the process of step S36 may be repeated. The fifth predetermined time is the time during which the detection value of the second temperature sensor (79) becomes equal to or higher than a fifth predetermined temperature due to heat generation from the battery (B).

[0132] In step S38, if the control unit (72) determines that a sixth predetermined time has elapsed since the damper was put in the sixth state (Yes in step S38), the process proceeds to step S31, and if the control unit (72) determines that the sixth predetermined time has not elapsed (No in step S38), the process of step S38 may be repeated. The sixth predetermined time is the time during which the heat of the air in the fourth passage (64) is transferred to the low-temperature freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) so that the detection value of the second temperature sensor (79) becomes equal to or higher than the sixth predetermined temperature.

[0133] Seventh embodiment The seventh embodiment of the temperature adjustment system will be described, focusing mainly on the differences from the sixth embodiment.

[0134] <Fifth example of temperature control system operation> As shown in FIG. 13, in the fifth example, a process shown in step S41 is carried out in parallel with the processes shown in steps S31 to S38 shown in the fourth example (see FIG. 11).

[0135] In step S41, the control unit (72) determines whether the detection value of the first temperature sensor (75) (the temperature of the battery mounting space (50a)) is equal to or higher than a seventh predetermined temperature. The seventh predetermined temperature is higher than the fifth predetermined temperature. The seventh predetermined temperature is, for example, a temperature that is undesirably high for storing the battery (B) or a temperature close to the undesirable temperature. If it is determined that the temperature is equal to or higher than the seventh predetermined temperature (Yes in step S41), the process proceeds to step S42. If it is determined that the temperature is not equal to or higher than the seventh predetermined temperature (No in step S41), the process shown in step S41 is repeated.

[0136] As shown in Fig. 13, in step S42, priority processing (steps S421 and S422) is performed. The priority processing is processing that is performed in preference to the processing shown in steps S31 to S38 and step S41. While the priority processing is being performed, the processing shown in steps S31 to S38 and step S41 is stopped.

[0137] As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, in step S421, the control unit (72) sets the dampers to the eighth state. Setting the dampers to the eighth state means setting the fourth damper (80) to the open state, the fifth damper (81) to the open state, the sixth damper (82) to the open state, and the seventh damper (83) to the open state. When the dampers are in the eighth state, the cold air in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) is sent to the battery mounting space (50a) through the fourth passage (64) and the fifth passage (65), thereby decreasing the temperature of the air in the battery mounting space (50a). When the dampers are in the eighth state, the cold air in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) is sent quickly to the battery mounting space (50a) without being stopped by the fourth passage (64), so that the temperature of the air in the battery mounting space (50a) can be decreased quickly.

[0138] In step S422, the control unit (72) determines whether the detection value of the first temperature sensor (75) (the temperature of the battery mounting space (50a)) is equal to or lower than an eighth predetermined temperature. The eighth predetermined temperature is lower than the seventh predetermined temperature and equal to or higher than the fourth predetermined temperature. The eighth predetermined temperature is, for example, approximately the same temperature as the fourth predetermined temperature. If it is determined that the temperature is equal to or lower than the eighth predetermined temperature (Yes in step S422), the priority process ends, and the process proceeds to steps S37 and S41. If it is determined that the temperature is not equal to or lower than the eighth predetermined temperature (No in step S422), the process shown in step S422 is repeated.

[0139] <Modification of the Seventh Embodiment> In step S422, if the control unit (72) determines that a seventh predetermined time has elapsed since the damper was put into the eighth state (Yes in step S422), the priority process ends and the process proceeds to steps S37 and S41, whereas if the control unit (72) determines that the seventh predetermined time has not elapsed (No in step S422), the process shown in step S422 may be repeated. The seventh predetermined time is the time during which the cold air from the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) causes the detection value of the first temperature sensor (75) (the temperature of the battery mounting space (50a)) to become equal to or lower than an eighth predetermined temperature.

[0140] Although the embodiments and modifications have been described above, it will be understood that various modifications in form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims (see (A) to (G) below). Furthermore, elements of the above embodiments, modifications, and other embodiments may be combined or substituted as appropriate.

[0141] (A) In each of the temperature adjustment systems of the fourth to fifth embodiments, the heating section (74) (see FIG. 5(c)) may be disposed in the first passage (61). In each of the temperature adjustment systems of the sixth to seventh embodiments, the heating section (74) may be disposed in the fifth passage (65).

[0142] (B) In each of the temperature adjustment systems of the fourth to seventh embodiments, the internal heat exchanger (21) of the second unit (20) may be disposed in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) closer to a communication point (62b, 64b) between the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and the circulation passage (60). The internal heat exchanger (21) may be disposed in the circulation passage (60) (in the second passage (62)).

[0143] (C) In the first to seventh embodiments, the temperature adjustment system may include a refrigeration device (10), and the control unit (72) of the temperature adjustment system may control the operation of the refrigeration device (10) based on the amount of air sent from the circulation passage (60) to the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) (the rotation speed of the fan (70a) of the blower unit (70)) or the temperature (the value detected by the first temperature sensor (75)). For example, the control unit (72) increases the rotation speed of the compressor (12) as the amount of air sent from the circulation passage (60) to the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) increases (the rotation speed of the fan (70a) increases). Also, for example, the control unit (72) increases the rotation speed of the compressor (12) as the temperature of the air sent from the circulation passage (60) to the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) increases (the temperature detected by the first temperature sensor (75) increases).

[0144] (D) The moving body (1) in the first to seventh embodiments is not limited to a vehicle such as a truck. The moving body (1) may be any moving body capable of self-propelling on land, sea, or air, such as a ship or an airplane.

[0145] (E) In the first to seventh embodiments, the housing (50) (battery mounting space (50a)) is provided inside the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a) (see FIG. 1). However, the present invention is not limited to this. As shown in FIG. 15(a), the housing (50) may be provided inside the cabin (2) (inside the moving body (1)). As shown in FIG. 15(a), the housing (50) may be provided at the bottom of the moving body (1).

[0146] (F) In the first to seventh embodiments, a refrigeration device (10) is shown as an example of a device mounted on a moving body (1) and supplied with power from a battery (B). However, the present invention is not limited thereto. The device mounted on a moving body (1) and supplied with power from a battery (B) may be any device that operates on power from the battery (B) while mounted on the moving body (1). For example, the device may be an air conditioner, home appliance, etc. mounted on a camper. Also, the battery (B) may be a battery for driving the moving body (1).

[0147] (G) In the fourth to seventh embodiments, the first temperature sensor (75) detects the temperature (air temperature) of the battery mounting space (50a). However, the present invention is not limited to this. The first temperature sensor (75) may detect the temperature of the battery (B). In this case, in steps S12 and S14 shown in FIG. 7, steps S22 and S22 shown in FIG. 9, step S41 shown in FIG. 13, and step S422 shown in FIG. 14, the temperature of the battery mounting space (50a) is read as the temperature of the battery (B), and the control unit (72) compares the temperature of the battery mounting space (50a) with various predetermined temperatures (first predetermined temperature, second predetermined temperature, seventh predetermined temperature, eighth predetermined temperature, etc.). In addition, the temperature of the battery (B) does not have to be detected by the first temperature sensor (75), and may be calculated (estimated) by the control unit (72) based on the power supplied from the battery (B).

[0148] The descriptions "first," "second," "third," etc. mentioned above are used to distinguish the words to which these descriptions are attached, and do not limit the number or order of the words. [Industrial Applicability]

[0149] INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY As described above, the present disclosure is useful for a temperature adjustment system. [Explanation of symbols]

[0150] 1. Mobile 3a Freezer / refrigerator compartment 50a Battery mounting space 60 Circulation passage B Battery

Claims

1. a mechanism for circulating air between a freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a) provided in the moving body (1) and a battery mounting space (50a) in which a battery (B) is mounted; The mechanism comprises: a circulation passage (60) for passing the air in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) through the battery mounting space (50a) and then sending the air to the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a); a temperature adjusting unit that adjusts the temperature of the air in the battery mounting space (50a) or the temperature of the battery (B) to a predetermined temperature or higher that is higher than the air temperature in the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a), the circulation passage (60) includes a first passage (61) and a second passage (62) communicating with the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and the battery mounting space (50a); the freezer-refrigerator chamber (3a), the first passage (61), the battery mounting space (50a), and the second passage (62) are connected in a circular manner in the order of the freezer-refrigerator chamber (3a), the first passage (61), the battery mounting space (50a), the second passage (62), and the freezer-refrigerator chamber (3a); A temperature control system, wherein the first passage (61) is provided with a heating section (74) for heating air to be sent to the battery mounting space (50a).

2. The temperature adjustment system according to claim 1, wherein the circulation passage (60) communicates with each of the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and the battery mounting space (50a) at at least two locations (61b, 62b, 61a, 62a).

3. 3. The temperature adjustment system according to claim 1, wherein the mechanism includes a first adjustment unit that adjusts the amount of air flowing through the circulation passage (60).

4. The temperature adjustment system according to claim 3 , wherein the first adjustment section includes a blower ( 70 ) or a damper ( 76 , 77 , 78 , 80 , 81 , 82 , 83 ).

5. 3. The temperature adjustment system according to claim 1, wherein the heating section (74) that heats air is disposed in the circulation passage (60) upstream of the battery mounting space (50a).

6. 3. The temperature adjustment system according to claim 1, wherein the mechanism includes a second adjustment unit that adjusts the amount of air sent from the circulation passageway to the freezer / refrigerator compartment.

7. The temperature adjustment system according to claim 6 , wherein the second adjustment section includes a blower ( 70 ) or a damper ( 77 , 81 ).

8. an agitation unit (73) provided in the freezing / refrigerating chamber (3a) and agitating air in the freezing / refrigerating chamber (3a); 3. The temperature adjustment system according to claim 1, wherein the agitating section (73) is arranged to agitate air sent from the battery mounting space (50a) to the freezer-refrigerator chamber (3a) within the freezer-refrigerator chamber (3a).

9. The present invention is provided with a mechanism for circulating air between a freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a) provided in a moving body (1) and a battery mounting space (50a) in which a battery (B) is mounted, and a refrigeration device (10) capable of performing a refrigeration operation by circulating a refrigerant, The mechanism comprises: a circulation passage (60) for passing the air in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) through the battery mounting space (50a) and then sending the air to the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a); a temperature adjusting unit that adjusts the temperature of the air in the battery mounting space (50a) or the temperature of the battery (B) to a predetermined temperature or higher that is higher than the air temperature in the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a), The refrigeration system (10) includes a heat exchanger (21) that exchanges heat between the refrigerant and air in the freezing and refrigerating chamber (3a), The heat exchanger (21) is disposed in the freezing / refrigerating chamber (3a) near a communication point (62b, 64b) between the freezing / refrigerating chamber (3a) and the circulation passage (60).

10. a mechanism for circulating air between a freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a) provided in the moving body (1) and a battery mounting space (50a) in which a battery (B) is mounted; The mechanism comprises: a circulation passage (60) for passing the air in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) through the battery mounting space (50a) and then sending the air to the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a); a temperature adjusting unit that adjusts the temperature of the air in the battery mounting space (50a) or the temperature of the battery (B) to a predetermined temperature or higher that is higher than the air temperature in the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a), the circulation passage (60) includes a first passage (61) and a second passage (62) communicating with the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) and the battery mounting space (50a); the freezer-refrigerator chamber (3a), the first passage (61), the battery mounting space (50a), and the second passage (62) are connected in a circular manner in the order of the freezer-refrigerator chamber (3a), the first passage (61), the battery mounting space (50a), the second passage (62), and the freezer-refrigerator chamber (3a); The circulation passage (60) includes a third passage (63) communicating with a portion of the first passage (61) located between a portion (61a) communicating with the battery mounting space (50a) and a portion (61b) communicating with the freezer-refrigerator chamber (3a) and a portion of the second passage (62) located between a portion (62a) communicating with the battery mounting space (50a) and a portion (62b) communicating with the freezer-refrigerator chamber (3a).

11. a mechanism for circulating air between a freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a) provided in the moving body (1) and a battery mounting space (50a) in which a battery (B) is mounted; The mechanism comprises: a circulation passage (60) for passing the air in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) through the battery mounting space (50a) and then sending the air to the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a); a temperature adjusting unit that adjusts the temperature of the air in the battery mounting space (50a) or the temperature of the battery (B) to a predetermined temperature or higher that is higher than the air temperature in the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a), The circulation passage (60) a fourth annular passage (64) communicating with the freezer / refrigerator chamber (3a) at at least two locations (64a, 64b); a fifth passage (65) and a sixth passage (66) communicating with the fourth passage (64) and the battery mounting space (50a); Including, a temperature control system in which the fourth passage (64), the fifth passage (65), the battery mounting space (50a), and the sixth passage (66) are connected in a circular manner in the order of the fourth passage (64), the fifth passage (65), the battery mounting space (50a), the sixth passage (66), and the fourth passage (64).

12. The mechanism comprises: a switching unit (80, 81, 82, 83) which switches whether the fourth passage (64) is blocked from each of the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a), the fifth passage (65), and the sixth passage (66); a blower section (70) provided in the fourth passage (64) for blowing air; The temperature control system according to claim 11 .

13. The temperature control system according to claim 1 , wherein the battery mounting space (50a) is provided within the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a), below the moving body (1), or inside the moving body (1).

14. a mechanism for circulating air between a freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a) provided in the moving body (1) and a battery mounting space (50a) in which a battery (B) is mounted; The mechanism comprises: a circulation passage (60) for passing the air in the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a) through the battery mounting space (50a) and then sending the air to the freezer-refrigerator compartment (3a); a temperature adjusting unit that adjusts the temperature of the air in the battery mounting space (50a) or the temperature of the battery (B) to a predetermined temperature or higher that is higher than the air temperature in the freezer / refrigerator compartment (3a), The temperature control system is a refrigeration device (10) for adjusting a temperature inside the freezer-refrigerator chamber (3a); a control unit (72) that controls an operation of the refrigeration device (10) based on the amount or temperature of air sent from the circulation passage (60) to the freezing and refrigerating chamber (3a); A temperature control system.

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