Cooling cycle apparatus and home appliance including same

Abstract

This cooling cycle apparatus comprises: a first heat exchanger for emitting heat and a second heat exchanger for absorbing heat; a magnetic cooling device including a magnetocaloric material, and heating a first fluid that flows to the first heat exchanger and cooling a second fluid that flows to the second heat exchanger; and an auxiliary cooling device including a heater, which further heats the first fluid flowing to the first heat exchanger, and a cooler, which further cools the second fluid flowing to the second heat exchanger.

Description

Refrigeration cycle device and home appliance including same

[0001] The disclosure relates to a cooling cycle device including a magnetic cooling device and a home appliance including the same.

[0002] Typically, home appliances like refrigerators and air conditioners include cooling devices to supply cool air to spaces requiring cooling. For example, refrigerators require cooling devices to supply cool air to food storage compartments to keep food fresh for long periods of time. Air conditioners, for example, also require cooling devices to supply cool air to indoor spaces to regulate temperature and humidity levels appropriate for human activity.

[0003] Conventional refrigerators and air conditioners use a refrigeration cycle that repeatedly compresses and expands refrigerant. However, the refrigerant used to operate these devices can accelerate global warming, and there is a risk of explosion due to refrigerant leakage.

[0004] Therefore, there has been a growing demand for environmentally friendly cooling devices that do not accelerate global warming and have a low risk of explosion. Among these, cooling cycle devices utilizing the magnetocaloric effect can be used to create environmentally friendly cooling devices without the use of conventional refrigerants, and thus, active research has been ongoing recently.

[0005] According to one aspect of the disclosure, an environmentally friendly cooling cycle device and a home appliance including the same are provided.

[0006] According to one aspect of the disclosure, a cooling cycle device includes a first heat exchanger configured to emit heat and a second heat exchanger configured to absorb heat; a magnetic cooling device including a magnetocaloric material and configured to heat a first fluid flowing into the first heat exchanger and cool a second fluid flowing into the second heat exchanger; and an auxiliary cooling device including a heater configured to further heat the first fluid flowing into the first heat exchanger and a cooler configured to further cool the second fluid flowing into the second heat exchanger.

[0007] The auxiliary cooling device further includes a thermoelectric element configured to heat the heating element and cool the cooling element, wherein the heating element can be arranged on one side of the thermoelectric element and the cooling element can be arranged on the other side of the thermoelectric element.

[0008] The cooling cycle device may further include a first pipe configured to allow the first fluid to flow from the magnetic cooling device to the first heat exchanger and form a heating path passing through the heating unit; and a second pipe configured to allow the second fluid to flow from the magnetic cooling device to the second heat exchanger and form a cooling path passing through the cooling unit; and the heating path and the cooling path may be opened so that the first fluid is further heated while passing through the heating unit, while the second fluid is further cooled while passing through the cooling unit.

[0009] The cooling cycle device may further include a first valve configured to open and close the heating passage and installed in the first pipe; a second valve configured to open and close the cooling passage and installed in the second pipe; and a control unit configured to control the first valve and the second valve; wherein the control unit may operate the first valve and the second valve so that the first fluid is further heated while passing through the heating section, while the second fluid is further cooled while passing through the cooling section.

[0010] The magnetic cooling device may further include a first magneto-thermal module including a first magneto-thermal material and a first internal passage in which the first magneto-thermal material is disposed, and capable of heating the first fluid based on a change in a magnetic field applied to the first magneto-thermal material; and a second magneto-thermal module including a second magneto-thermal material and a second internal passage in which the second magneto-thermal material is disposed, and capable of cooling the second fluid based on a change in a magnetic field applied to the second magneto-thermal material; and the first internal passage may be communicated with the heating passage and the second internal passage may be communicated with the cooling passage so that the first fluid is further heated while passing through the heating section, while the second fluid is further cooled while passing through the cooling section.

[0011] The first magnetic heat module may further include a first communication channel configured to allow the first fluid within the first internal passage to flow from the second heat exchanger to the heating section and to connect the first internal passage and the heating passage; and a second communication channel configured to allow the second fluid within the first internal passage to flow from the first heat exchanger to the cooling section and to connect the first internal passage and the cooling passage; and the second magnetic heat module may further include a third communication channel configured to allow the first fluid within the second internal passage to flow from the second heat exchanger to the heating section and to connect the second internal passage and the heating passage. And a fourth communication passage configured to allow the second fluid in the second internal passage to flow from the first heat exchanger to the cooling unit and to connect the second internal passage and the cooling passage; and the control unit may further include: a first valve configured to open the first communication passage of the first magnetic heat module and close the third communication passage of the second magnetic heat module; and a second valve configured to close the second communication passage of the first magnetic heat module and open the fourth communication passage of the second magnetic heat module.

[0012] The first fluid may be a liquid.

[0013] The cooling unit may include a first heat exchange unit configured to exchange heat with the first fluid outside the cooling unit; and a second heat exchange unit configured to cool the second fluid flowing from the magnetic cooling device to the second heat exchanger.

[0014] The second fluid flowing through the second heat exchange unit of the cooling unit may be a liquid.

[0015] The cooling cycle device may further include a first tank configured to store the first fluid before being supplied to the first heat exchanger; and a second tank configured to store the second fluid before being supplied to the second heat exchanger.

[0016] The first tank may be arranged downstream of the heating unit and upstream of the first heat exchanger, and the second tank may be arranged downstream of the cooling unit and upstream of the second heat exchanger.

[0017] The first fluid stored in the first tank can be brought into contact with the heating unit, and the second fluid stored in the second tank can be brought into contact with the cooling unit.

[0018] The magnetocaloric material may be provided in plurality, and the plurality of magnetocaloric materials may have different Curie temperatures, and the magnetic cooling device may further include a magnet that is configured to be rotatable relative to the plurality of magnetocaloric materials on the outside of the plurality of magnetocaloric materials in order to apply a magnetic field to the plurality of magnetocaloric materials; and a driver that is configured to rotate the magnet.

[0019] The above plurality of magnetocaloric materials may be bar-shaped or spherical-shaped.

[0020] The above plurality of magnetic caloric materials can be stacked on top of each other.

[0021] The magnet may be further configured to apply a magnetic field to one or more of the plurality of magnetocaloric materials.

[0022] The heating unit may include a first fin extending perpendicular to the direction in which the thermoelectric element extends, the first pipe may pass through the heating unit and the first fin, and the cooling unit may include a second fin extending perpendicular to the direction in which the thermoelectric element extends, and the second pipe may pass through the cooling unit and the second fin.

[0023] The above cooling cycle device may further include a power terminal connected to the thermoelectric element and configured to control the temperature of the heating unit and the cooling unit.

[0024] The refrigerator may include the above refrigeration cycle device.

[0025] The air conditioner may include the above refrigeration cycle device.

[0026] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an environmentally friendly cooling cycle device capable of achieving higher temperatures and lower temperatures and a refrigerator including the same can be provided.

[0027] The effects according to one aspect of the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains from the description below.

[0028] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of specific embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0029] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments.

[0030] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a magnetic cooling device in a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments.

[0031] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a magnetic cooling device in a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments.

[0032] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a magnetic cooling device in a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments.

[0033] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of an auxiliary cooling device in a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments.

[0034] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of an auxiliary cooling device in a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments.

[0035] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a magnetic cooling device in a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments.

[0036] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of a working fluid in a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments.

[0037] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of a magnetic cooling device in a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments.

[0038] FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of a working fluid in a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments.

[0039] FIG. 11 is a control diagram of a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments.

[0040] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments.

[0041] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments.

[0042] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an appliance including a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments.

[0043] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an appliance including a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments.

[0044] FIG. 16 is a side cross-sectional view of an appliance including a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments.

[0045] It should be understood that one or more embodiments of the present disclosure and terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in the present disclosure to specific embodiments, but rather encompass various modifications, equivalents, or alternatives of the embodiments.

[0046] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0047] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0048] In this disclosure, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0049] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0050] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another and do not qualify the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0051] In addition, terms such as 'front', 'rear', 'top', 'bottom', 'side', 'front side', 'rear side', 'left', 'right', 'upper', and 'lower' used in the present disclosure are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0052] Terms such as "include" or "have" are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in the present disclosure, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0053] When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact with” another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0054] When we say that a component is "on" another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component between the two components.

[0055] Hereinafter, one or more embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0056] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments.

[0057] Referring to FIG. 1, a cooling cycle device (100) according to one or more embodiments may include a first heat exchanger (110) and a second heat exchanger (120). The first heat exchanger (110) may be configured to emit heat. The second heat exchanger (120) may be configured to absorb heat.

[0058] According to one or more embodiments, if the home appliance including the refrigeration cycle device (100) is a refrigerator, the first heat exchanger (110) can release heat to the outside of the refrigerator body (10a), and the second heat exchanger (120) can absorb heat from air flowing into the storage compartment (20a, 30a) (see FIG. 14). In addition, for example, if the home appliance including the refrigeration cycle device (100) is an air conditioner, the first heat exchanger (110) can be provided in the outdoor unit and release heat to the outside of the outdoor unit, and the second heat exchanger (120) can be provided in the indoor unit and absorb heat from air flowing into the indoor unit.

[0059] The cooling cycle device (100) may include a magnetic cooling device (130). The magnetic cooling device (130) may heat a fluid flowing into a first heat exchanger (110) and cool a fluid flowing into a second heat exchanger (120).

[0060] The magnetic cooling device (130) can cool and heat a fluid flowing through the magnetic cooling device (130) by utilizing the magnetocaloric effect. In a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments, the magnetic cooling device (130) uses water or antifreeze instead of a conventional refrigerant, and thus can reduce the risk of global warming and explosion compared to a refrigeration cycle device that uses a conventional refrigerant.

[0061] The cooling cycle device (100) may further include an auxiliary cooling device (140). The auxiliary cooling device (140) may include a device that additionally heats and / or additionally cools the fluid passing through the magnetic cooling device (130). The auxiliary cooling device (140) may be positioned downstream of the magnetic cooling device (130). According to one or more embodiments, the auxiliary cooling device (140) may further heat the fluid flowing through the magnetic cooling device (130) to the first heat exchanger (110) to assist in heating the magnetic cooling device (130), or may further cool the fluid flowing through the magnetic cooling device (130) to the second heat exchanger (120) to assist in cooling the magnetic cooling device (130).

[0062] According to one or more embodiments, the fluid flowing from the magnetic cooling device (130) to the first heat exchanger (110) can be heated, and the auxiliary cooling device (140) can further heat the fluid that has been heated in the magnetic cooling device (130) and flowing into the first heat exchanger (110). Additionally, for example, the fluid flowing from the magnetic cooling device (130) to the second heat exchanger (120) can be cooled through the magnetic cooling device (130), and the auxiliary cooling device (140) can further cool the fluid that has been cooled in the magnetic cooling device (130) and flowing into the second heat exchanger (120).

[0063] According to one or more embodiments, the auxiliary cooling device (140) may include a thermoelectric device. The auxiliary cooling device (140) may use the thermoelectric effect to cool and / or heat a fluid flowing from the magnetic cooling device (130) to the first heat exchanger (110) or the second heat exchanger (120). However, the auxiliary cooling device (140) is not limited to a thermoelectric device. According to one or more embodiments, the auxiliary cooling device (140) may include a vapor cooling device, a refrigerant-based refrigeration cycle device, a fan-based air cooling device, a water cooling method using cooling water, etc.

[0064] The cooling cycle device (100) may include a tank (151, 152). The tank (151, 152) may store a fluid flowing through the cooling cycle device (100). The tank (151, 152) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple tanks (151, 152) may include a first tank (151) and a second tank (152).

[0065] The first tank (151) can store fluid before flowing to the first heat exchanger (110). According to one or more embodiments, the first tank (151) can be positioned upstream of the first heat exchanger (110) and downstream of the auxiliary cooling device (140).

[0066] The second tank (152) can store fluid before flowing to the second heat exchanger (120). According to one or more embodiments, the second tank (152) can be positioned upstream of the second heat exchanger (120) and downstream of the auxiliary cooling device (140).

[0067] A valve may be installed in the first tank (151) to control the flow rate and direction of the fluid flowing to the first heat exchanger (110). A valve may be installed in the second tank (152) to control the flow rate and direction of the fluid flowing to the second heat exchanger (120). However, the ordinal numbers of “first” and “second” do not limit the configuration of the first tank (151) and the second tank (152). According to one or more embodiments, the configuration in which the fluid is stored before flowing to the first heat exchanger (110) may be the second tank, and the configuration in which the fluid is stored before flowing to the second heat exchanger (120) may be the first tank.

[0068] The cooling cycle device (100) may include pipes (161, 162, 163, 164). The pipes (161, 162, 163, 164) may connect a plurality of heat exchangers (110, 120), a plurality of tanks (151, 152), a self-cooling device (130), and an auxiliary cooling device (140). The working fluid of the cooling cycle device (100) may flow within the pipes (161, 162, 163, 164).

[0069] The plurality of pipes (161, 162, 163, 164) may be provided. The plurality of pipes (161, 162, 163, 164) may include a first pipe (161). The first pipe (161) may connect the magnetic cooling device (130) and the first heat exchanger (110). The first pipe (161) may allow the working fluid to flow from the magnetic cooling device (130) through the auxiliary cooling device (140) and the first tank (151) to the first heat exchanger (110). The plurality of pipes (161, 162, 163, 164) may include a second pipe (162). The second pipe (162) may connect the magnetic cooling device (130) and the second heat exchanger (120). The second pipe (162) can allow the working fluid to flow from the magnetic cooling device (130) through the auxiliary cooling device (140) and the second tank (152) to the second heat exchanger (120). The plurality of pipes (161, 162, 163, 164) can include a third pipe (163). The third pipe (163) can connect the magnetic cooling device (130) and the second heat exchanger (120). The third pipe (163) can allow the working fluid to flow from the second heat exchanger (120) to the magnetic cooling device (130). The plurality of pipes (161, 162, 163, 164) can include a fourth pipe (164). The fourth pipe (164) can connect the magnetic cooling device (130) and the first heat exchanger (110). The fourth pipe (164) can allow the working fluid to flow from the first heat exchanger (110) to the magnetic cooling device (130). However, the ordinal numbers of the first pipe, the second pipe, the third pipe, and the fourth pipe do not limit their configuration.

[0070] The cooling cycle device (100) may include a pump (181, 182, 183, 184). The pump (181, 182, 183, 184) may be installed in a pipe (161, 162, 163, 164) to pump a working fluid so that the fluid flows to each component of the cooling cycle device (100).

[0071] The pumps (181, 182, 183, 184) may be provided in plurality. The plurality of pumps (181, 182, 183, 184) may include a first pump (181). The first pump (181) may be installed on the first pipe (161) and may pump the working fluid flowing from the magnetic cooling device (130) through the auxiliary cooling device (140) to the first heat exchanger (110). The plurality of pumps (181, 182, 183, 184) may include a second pump (182). The second pump (182) may be installed on the second pipe (162) and may pump the working fluid flowing from the magnetic cooling device (130) through the auxiliary cooling device (140) to the second heat exchanger (120). The plurality of pumps (181, 182, 183, 184) may include a third pump (183). The third pump (183) may be installed on the fourth pipe (164) and may pump the working fluid flowing from the first heat exchanger (110) to the magnetic cooling device (130). The plurality of pumps (181, 182, 183, 184) may include a fourth pump (184). The fourth pump (184) may be installed on the second pipe (162) and may pump the working fluid flowing from the second heat exchanger (120). However, the fourth pump (184) may also be installed on the third pipe (163) and may pump the working fluid flowing from the second heat exchanger (120) to the magnetic cooling device (130). However, the first pump, second pump, third pump, and fourth pump do not limit their configuration by ordinal numbers.

[0072] In the cooling cycle device (100), the working fluid can circulate through the cooling cycle device (100). The working fluid can sequentially pass through the first heat exchanger (110), the magnetic cooling device (130), the auxiliary cooling device (140), the second heat exchanger (120), the magnetic cooling device (130), and the auxiliary cooling device (140) and then flow back to the first heat exchanger (110). The working fluid flowing through the cooling cycle device (100) can be a liquid.

[0073] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a magnetic cooling device in a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a magnetic cooling device in a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments.

[0074] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, in a cooling cycle device (100) according to one or more embodiments, a magnetic cooling device (130) may include a magnetocaloric material (131). The magnetocaloric material (131) is a material capable of utilizing a magnetocaloric effect. The magnetocaloric effect refers to an effect in which, in response to a magnetic field being applied to a magnetic body, magnetic moments within the magnetic body are aligned in the direction of the magnetic field and the temperature of the magnetic body changes. The magnetocaloric material (131) may change its temperature as the magnetic moments within the magnetocaloric material (131) are aligned in response to the application of a magnetic field.

[0075] The magnetic cooling device (130) can change the temperature of the working fluid by flowing the working fluid in the space where the magnetocaloric material (131) is placed. When a magnetic field is applied to the magnetocaloric material (131), the temperature of the magnetocaloric material (131) increases, and while the temperature of the magnetocaloric material (131) increases, the working fluid passes through the magnetocaloric material (131), thereby transferring heat from the magnetocaloric material (131). Therefore, the temperature of the working fluid can increase.

[0076] In addition, when a magnetic field is applied to a magnetocaloric material (131) and then the magnetic field is removed, the temperature of the magnetocaloric material (131) decreases, and since heat is released to the working fluid, the temperature of the magnetocaloric material (131) can decrease further than before the magnetic field is applied. While the temperature of the magnetocaloric material (131) decreases, the working fluid can release heat to the magnetocaloric material (131) by passing through the magnetocaloric material (131). Therefore, the temperature of the working fluid can decrease.

[0077] The magneto-thermal material (131) may be provided in multiple forms. The multiple magneto-thermal materials may have a bar shape, a spherical shape, etc. The multiple magneto-thermal materials (131) may be stacked on top of each other.

[0078] The plurality of magnetocaloric materials (131) may have different Curie temperatures. The magnetocaloric materials (131) having different Curie temperatures may be heated or cooled to different temperatures depending on the application or removal of a magnetic field. Accordingly, the working fluid of the cooling cycle device (100) may have its temperature increased or decreased as it passes through the plurality of magnetocaloric materials (131).

[0079] The magnetic cooling device (130) may further include a magnet (132) (see FIG. 4). The magnet (132) may or may not apply a magnetic field to the magnetocaloric material (131). When the magnetocaloric material (131) receives a magnetic field from the magnet (132), the temperature of the magnetocaloric material (131) may increase, and when no magnetic field is applied, the temperature of the magnetocaloric material (131) may decrease.

[0080] The magnetic cooling device (130) may include a magnetocaloric module (130a). The magnetocaloric module (130a) may include a magnetocaloric material (131) and may heat or cool a fluid passing through the magnetocaloric module (130a). According to one or more embodiments, a magnetic field may or may not be applied to the magnetocaloric module (130a) via a magnet (132), thereby heating or cooling a fluid passing through the magnetocaloric module (130a). The magnetocaloric module (130a) may be a magnetic cooling unit, a magnetic heating unit, a magnetic cooling module, or a magnetic heating module.

[0081] The magneto-caloric module (130a) may include a case (130d) forming a receiving space (130e). A magneto-caloric material (131) may be placed within the receiving space (130e). A working fluid flowing through the magnetic cooling device (130) may pass through the receiving space (130e) within the case (130d). The direction of flow of the working fluid flowing through the magneto-caloric module (130a) may be changed based on the magnetic field applied to the magneto-caloric material (131).

[0082] Since a magneto-caloric material (131) is arranged in the receiving space (130e), the fluid flowing in the receiving space (130e) can be heated while the magneto-caloric material (131) receives a magnetic field by the magnet (132). In addition, since the temperature of the magneto-caloric material (131) drops after the magnetic field by the magnet (132) disappears, the fluid flowing in the receiving space (130e) can be cooled. The receiving space (130e) can be an internal flow path (130e). The internal flow path (130e) can be communicated with the connecting flow paths (130f, 130g).

[0083] According to one or more embodiments, while the magnetocaloric material (131) receives a magnetic field by the magnet (132), the working fluid may be heated by receiving heat from the second heat exchanger (120) and then flowing to the internal passage (130e) through the first communication passage (130f) formed in the third pipe (163). The working fluid passing through the internal passage (130e) may flow to the auxiliary cooling device (140) through the first communication passage (130f) formed in the first pipe (161). At this time, the working fluid may flow in a first direction (e.g., -A direction) (see FIG. 2). The first pipe (161) may be an outlet pipe (161), and the third pipe (163) may be an inlet pipe (163).

[0084] According to one or more embodiments, while the magnetic field is removed from the magnetocaloric material (131), the working fluid may be cooled by radiating heat through the first heat exchanger (110) and then flowing to the internal flow path (130e) through the second communication flow path (130g) formed in the second pipe (162). The working fluid passing through the internal flow path (130e) may flow to the auxiliary cooling device (140) through the second communication flow path (130g) formed in the fourth pipe (164). At this time, the working fluid may flow in a second direction (e.g., direction A) opposite to the first direction (see FIG. 3). The second pipe (162) may be an inlet pipe (162), and the fourth pipe (164) may be an outlet pipe (164).

[0085] The magnetic cooling device (130) may include a plurality of valves (138, 139). The plurality of valves (138, 139) may control the flow of fluid flowing through the magnetic heat module (130a). According to one or more embodiments, the cooling cycle device (100) may operate the plurality of valves (138, 139) to switch and change the direction in which the working fluid flows. The plurality of valves (138, 139) may be installed on the pipes (161, 162, 163, 164) to open and close the communication paths (130f, 130g). Valves (138, 139) are installed on pipes (161, 162, 163, 164) to open and / or allow the communication path (130f, 130g) to flow, or to allow and / or initiate the flow of fluid through the communication path (130f, 130g). In addition, valves (138, 139) can expand, improve, and / or change the area of ​​the communication path (130f, 130g) through which the fluid flows.

[0086] In addition, as described below, the communication paths (130f, 130g) are communicated with the heating paths (141a, 141b, 141c, 141d) and the cooling paths (142a, 142b, 142c, 142d), so the valves (138, 139) can open and / or allow and / or initiate the flow of fluid in the heating paths (141a, 141b, 141c, 141d) and / or the cooling paths (142a, 142b, 142c, 142d). Additionally, the valves (138, 139) can expand, improve and / or change the area of ​​the heating paths (141a, 141b, 141c, 141d) and / or cooling paths (142a, 142b, 142c, 142d) through which the fluid flows.

[0087] The plurality of valves (138, 139) may include a first valve (138) and a second valve (139). The first valve (138) may prevent the fluid flowing from the second heat exchanger (120) to the magnetic heat module (130a) from flowing in the second direction and allow it to flow in the first direction. The first valve (138) may open and close the first communication path (130f). Therefore, the first valve (138) may allow the working fluid to be heated.

[0088] The second valve (139) can prevent the fluid flowing from the first heat exchanger (110) to the magnetic heat module (130a) from flowing in the first direction and allow it to flow in the second direction. The second valve (139) can open and close the second communication path (130g). Therefore, the second valve (139) can allow the working fluid to be heated.

[0089] According to one or more embodiments, the first valve (138) and the second valve (139) may each be provided in multiples.

[0090] Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram of a magnetic cooling device in a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments. Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the magnetic cooling device illustrated in Figs. 2 and 3, rotated 90 degrees.

[0091] Referring to Fig. 4, a plurality of magnetic heat modules (130a) may be provided. The plurality of magnetic heat modules (130a) may include a first magnetic heat module (134), a second magnetic heat module (135), a third magnetic heat module (136), and a fourth magnetic heat module (137). The first magnetic heat module (134), the second magnetic heat module (135), the third magnetic heat module (136), and the fourth magnetic heat module (137) may be arranged adjacent to each other.

[0092] A magnetic field may or may not be applied to a plurality of magnetic heat modules (134, 135, 136, 137) via a magnet (132). The magnet (132) may be arranged to surround the plurality of magnetic heat modules (134, 135, 136, 137).

[0093] At least one magnet (132) may be provided. According to one or more embodiments, a plurality of magnets (132) may be provided, and a magneto-thermal material (131) and a magneto-thermal module (134, 135, 136, 137) including the magneto-thermal material may be positioned between the plurality of magnets (132). The magnet (132) may be arranged to surround the magneto-thermal module (134, 135, 136, 137). The magnet (132) may rotate with respect to the magneto-thermal module (134, 135, 136, 137). The magnet (132) can be rotated on the outside of the magnetic heat module (134, 135, 136, 137) to apply or not apply a magnetic field to the magnetic heat module (134, 135, 136, 137).

[0094] The magnetic cooling device (130) may further include a driving device (133, driver) (see FIG. 11). The driving device (133) may transmit power to the magnet (132) so that the magnet (132) rotates. For example, the driving device (133) may cause the magnet (132) to rotate around the magnetic heat module (134, 135, 136, 137) on the periphery of the magnetic heat module (134, 135, 136, 137).

[0095] As the magnet (132) rotates, a magnetic field may or may not be applied to the magnetic heat modules (134, 135, 136, 137). A plurality of magnets (132) may be provided. At a specific moment, the magnet (132) may apply a magnetic field to the second magnetic heat module (135) and the fourth magnetic heat module (137), and may not apply a magnetic field to the first magnetic heat module (134) and the third magnetic heat module (136). Accordingly, the temperatures of the second magnetic heat module (135) and the fourth magnetic heat module (137) may increase, and the working fluid may flow from the second heat exchanger (120) to the second magnetic heat module (135) and the fourth magnetic heat module (137). However, the application of the magnetic field of the magnet (132) is not limited to this.

[0096] However, although in one or more embodiments the second magnetic heat module (135) and the fourth magnetic heat module (137) are shown as receiving a magnetic field from the magnet (132), the magnet (132) may rotate so that the first magnetic heat module (134) and the third magnetic heat module (136) may receive a magnetic field. In addition, the rotation direction of the magnet (132) may be clockwise or counterclockwise.

[0097] Additionally, although four magnetic heat modules are illustrated in one or more embodiments, the number of magnetic heat modules (134, 135, 136, 137) is not limited thereto. In one or more embodiments, the magnetic heat module is composed of only a first magnetic heat module (134) and a second magnetic heat module (135), and can apply a magnetic field to the first magnetic heat module (134) or the second magnetic heat module (135).

[0098] Each of the plurality of magneto-thermal modules (134, 135, 136, 137) may include an internal flow path (130e) and a communicating flow path (130f, 130g). The communicating flow path (130f, 130g) may be in communication with the internal flow path (130e). Each of the plurality of magneto-thermal modules (134, 135, 136, 137) may include a first communicating flow path (130f, 134a, 135a, 136a, 137a) and a second communicating flow path (130g, 134b, 135b, 136b, 137b). The first communication passage (130f, 134a, 135a, 136a, 137a) and the second communication passage (130g, 134b, 135b, 136b, 137b) can be communicated with the receiving space (130e). The working fluid can flow from the second heat exchanger (120) through the first communication passage (130f, 134a, 135a, 136a, 137a) to the receiving space (130e) where the magnetocaloric material (131) is arranged, and then to the heating unit (heater, 141) of the auxiliary cooling device (140). Additionally, the working fluid can flow from the first heat exchanger (110) through the second communication path (130g, 134b, 135b, 136b, 137b) to the receiving space (130e) where the magnetic calorific material (131) is arranged and then to the cooling unit (cooler, 142) of the auxiliary cooling device (140).

[0099] The first valve (138) and the second valve (139) are provided in multiples to open and close the first communication passage (130f, 134a, 135a, 136a, 137a) and the second communication passage (130g, 134b, 135b, 136b, 137b), respectively. In one or more embodiments, the first valve (138) opens and closes the first communication passage (130f, 134a, 135a, 136a, 137a), and the second valve (139) opens and closes the second communication passage (130g, 134b, 135b, 136b, 137b).

[0100] Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram of an auxiliary cooling device in a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments. Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram of an auxiliary cooling device in a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments. Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the auxiliary cooling device of Fig. 5 taken along line A-A'.

[0101] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the auxiliary cooling device (140) may include a heating unit (141) and a cooling unit (142). The heating unit (141) may additionally heat a fluid that is heated by the magnetic cooling device (130) and flows to the first heat exchanger (110). The cooling unit (142) may additionally cool a fluid that is cooled by the magnetic cooling device (130) and flows to the second heat exchanger (120).

[0102] The heating unit (141) may include fins. The fins (141) of the heating unit (141) may extend perpendicularly to the extension direction of the first plate (143a) of the thermoelectric element (143). In addition, a first pipe (161) may pass through the heating unit (141) provided with the fins (141).

[0103] The cooling unit (142) may include fins. The fins (142) of the cooling unit (142) may extend perpendicularly to the extension direction from the second plate (143b) of the thermoelectric element (143). In addition, a second pipe (162) may pass through the cooling unit (142) provided with the fins (142).

[0104] A through hole (140a) may be formed in the pin (141, 142), and a pipe (161, 162) may be inserted into the through hole (140a). However, the shape of the heating unit (141) and the cooling unit (142) is not limited to the above-described pin, and may include various shapes.

[0105] The working fluid passing through the auxiliary cooling device (140) can flow to the magnetic cooling device (130), the first heat exchanger (110), and the second heat exchanger (120) through pipes (161, 162). The first pipe (161) can allow the working fluid to flow from the magnetic cooling device (130) to the heating unit (141) of the auxiliary cooling device (140), and can allow the working fluid to flow from the heating unit (141) to the first heat exchanger (110). The second pipe (162) can allow the working fluid to flow from the magnetic cooling device (130) to the cooling unit (142) of the auxiliary cooling device (140), and can allow the working fluid to flow from the cooling unit (142) to the second heat exchanger (120).

[0106] A plurality of pipes (161, 162) can be inserted through the heating section (141) and the cooling section (142) of the auxiliary cooling device (140), and a heating passage (141a, 141b, 141c, 141d) can be formed in a part of the first pipe (161) that passes through the heating section (141), and a cooling passage (142a, 142b, 142c, 142d) can be formed in a part of the second pipe (162) that passes through the cooling section (142).

[0107] Each of the first pipe (161) and the second pipe (162) may be provided in multiples. The first pipe (161) may be provided in multiples corresponding to the heating passages (141a, 141b, 141c, 141d). The second pipe (162) may be provided in multiples corresponding to the cooling passages (142a, 142b, 142c, 142d).

[0108] The first pipe (161) and the second pipe (162) may be formed as a single pipe. Alternatively, the first pipe (161) may be formed by connecting multiple pipes, and the second pipe (162) may also be formed by connecting multiple pipes.

[0109] The auxiliary cooling device (140) may include a plurality of auxiliary cooling units (144, 145, 146, 147). The plurality of auxiliary cooling units (144, 145, 146, 147) may include a first auxiliary cooling unit (144), a second auxiliary cooling unit (145), a third auxiliary cooling unit (146), and a fourth auxiliary cooling unit (147). The first auxiliary cooling unit (144), the second auxiliary cooling unit (145), the third auxiliary cooling unit (146), and the fourth auxiliary cooling unit (147) may be arranged adjacent to each other. The number of auxiliary cooling units (144, 145, 146, 147) may be provided corresponding to the number of magnetocaloric modules. In one or more embodiments, four auxiliary cooling units (144, 145, 146, 147) are illustrated, but the number of auxiliary cooling units (144, 145, 146, 147) is not limited thereto. Each of the plurality of auxiliary cooling units (144, 145, 146, 147) may include a heating unit (144a, 145a, 146a, 147a) and a cooling unit (144b, 145b, 146b, 147b).

[0110] Heating passages (141a, 141b, 141c, 141d) and cooling passages (142a, 142b, 142c, 142d) may be formed in the area of ​​the auxiliary cooling device (140) through which the pipes (161, 162) pass. The heating passages (141a, 141b, 141c, 141d) may be formed in the area through which the first pipe (161) of the heating unit (141) passes, and the cooling passages (142a, 142b, 142c, 142d) may be formed in the area through which the second pipe (162) of the cooling unit (142) passes. The heating passages (141a, 141b, 141c, 141d) may pass through the heating section (141), and the cooling passages (142a, 142b, 142c, 142d) may pass through the cooling section (142). However, the heating passages (141a, 141b, 141c, 141d) and the cooling passages (142a, 142b, 142c, 142d) may be formed inside the heating section (141) and the cooling section (142) rather than inside the pipes (161, 162).

[0111] The heating ducts (141a, 141b, 141c, 141d) and the cooling ducts (142a, 142b, 142c, 142d) can be connected and communicated with the flue ducts (130f, 130g).

[0112] The working fluid may pass through the heating section (141) before flowing from the self-cooling device (130) to the first heat exchanger (110) through the heating passages (141a, 141b, 141c, 141d). Additionally, the working fluid may pass through the cooling section (142) before flowing from the self-cooling device (130) to the second heat exchanger (120) through the cooling passages (142a, 142b, 142c, 142d).

[0113] A first heating path (141a) may be formed in the heating part (144a) of the first auxiliary cooling part (144), a second heating path (141b) may be formed in the heating part (145a) of the second auxiliary cooling part (145), a third heating path (141c) may be formed in the heating part (146a) of the third auxiliary cooling part (146), and a fourth heating path (141d) may be formed in the heating part (147a) of the fourth auxiliary cooling part (147).

[0114] A first cooling passage (142d) may be formed in the cooling section (144b) of the first auxiliary cooling section (144), a second cooling passage (142c) may be formed in the cooling section (145b) of the second auxiliary cooling section (145), a third cooling passage (142b) may be formed in the cooling section (146b) of the third auxiliary cooling section (146), and a fourth cooling passage (142a) may be formed in the cooling section (147b) of the fourth auxiliary cooling section (147).

[0115] Accordingly, a working fluid can flow through each of the plurality of auxiliary cooling units (144, 145, 146, 147). Since the working fluid flowing through the cooling cycle device (100) can be a liquid, the liquid can flow through the heating paths (141a, 141b, 141c, 141d) and the cooling paths (142a, 142b, 142c, 142d) passing through the heating part (141) and the cooling part (142) of the auxiliary cooling device (140).

[0116] The auxiliary cooling device (140) may further include a thermoelectric element (143). The thermoelectric element (143) may cause the heating unit (141) to become hot and the cooling unit (142) to become cold. A heating unit may be arranged on one side of the thermoelectric element (143), and a cooling unit may be arranged on the other side of the thermoelectric element (143). The thermoelectric element (143) may be arranged between the heating unit (141) and the cooling unit (142). The thermoelectric element (143) may be in contact with the heating unit (141) and the cooling unit (142). However, the position of the thermoelectric element (143) is not limited to the above-described example. The thermoelectric element (143) may also be arranged to be spaced apart from the heating unit (141) and the cooling unit (142).

[0117] The thermoelectric element (143) may include a first plate (143a), a second plate (143b), and a semiconductor layer (143c).

[0118] A semiconductor layer (143c) may be placed between the first plate (143a) and the second plate (143b). The semiconductor layer (143c) may include a plurality of thermoelectric materials connected in series, for example, a plurality of p-type and n-type semiconductors connected in series. The semiconductor layer (143c) may allow the temperatures of the first plate (143a) and the second plate (143b) to change.

[0119] The first plate (143a) and the second plate (143b) may include a ceramic plate and a metal plate. The metal plate may be in contact with a thermoelectric material provided on the semiconductor layer (143c), and the ceramic plate may be in contact with the metal plate on one side and with the heating unit (141) and / or the cooling unit (142) on the other side.

[0120] A power terminal may be connected to both ends of the thermoelectric element (143). The power terminal allows current to flow to the thermoelectric element (143), and the semiconductor layer (143c) may receive the current, thereby increasing the temperature of the first plate (143a) and decreasing the temperature of the second plate (143b). The thermoelectric element (143) may be a temperature control unit (143).

[0121] The first plate (143a) may be in contact with the heating unit (141), and the second plate (143b) may be in contact with the cooling unit (142). The first plate (143a) may transfer heat to the heating unit (141) to increase the temperature of the heating unit (141), and the second plate (143b) may take heat from the cooling unit (142) to lower the temperature of the cooling unit (142). The first plate (143a) may be a heating plate (143a), and the second plate (143b) may be a cooling plate (143b). However, the heating plate (143a) may be the second plate (143a), and the cooling plate (143b) may be the first plate (143b).

[0122] The thermoelectric element (143) can be supplied with power (or electrical energy), and can control the temperature in the heating unit (141) and the cooling unit (142) according to the amount of power supplied. As the amount of power supplied to the thermoelectric element (143) increases, the temperature difference between the first plate (143a) and the second plate (143b) can increase. Accordingly, the heating unit (141) becomes hotter and the cooling unit (142) becomes colder, so that the temperature difference between the heating unit (141) and the cooling unit (142) can increase.

[0123] The auxiliary cooling device (140) may be a thermoelectric module. Additionally, the auxiliary cooling device (140) may be an auxiliary heating device, a thermoelectric cooling device, or a thermoelectric heating device.

[0124] A thermoelectric device may include at least one pair of N-type and P-type semiconductor layers capable of cooling and / or heating by the Peltier effect. The Peltier effect refers to a phenomenon in which heat generation or absorption, different from Joule heat, occurs when a current is applied across different solids or semiconductors. The thermoelectric device may utilize an air-cooling method or a water-cooling method.

[0125] Conventional thermoelectric devices use only one of the heating and cooling elements, rather than both simultaneously. When only the heating element is used, a separate device, such as a fan, is required to quickly process the heat absorbed by the cooling element formed on the other side of the device. Furthermore, when only the cooling element is used, a separate device is required to process the heat emitted from the heating element formed on the other side of the device.

[0126] According to one or more embodiments, since the heating unit (141) and the cooling unit (142) of the auxiliary cooling device (140) can be used simultaneously, a separate device such as a fan is not required to process heat. By transferring heat to the fluid passing through the heating passages (141a, 141b, 141c, 141d), a device for processing the heat emitted from the heating unit (141) is not required, and by receiving heat from the fluid passing through the cooling passages (142a, 142b, 142c, 142d), a device for processing the heat to be absorbed in the cooling unit (142) is not required.

[0127] In addition, while at least one of the cooling unit and the heating unit of the conventional thermoelectric element exchanges heat with a gas, the heating unit (141) and the cooling unit (142) of the auxiliary cooling device (140) according to one or more embodiments may exchange heat with a liquid. Since the liquid has a higher heat transfer coefficient than the gas, the auxiliary cooling device (140) according to one or more embodiments may have a higher heat transfer efficiency per the same heat exchange area than the conventional thermoelectric element.

[0128] Therefore, the auxiliary cooling device (140) according to one or more embodiments does not require a separate device for heat dissipation in the heating unit (141) or heat absorption in the cooling unit (141), and the heat transfer efficiency is also superior to that of existing thermoelectric elements, so that the material cost of the cooling cycle device (100) can be reduced while the energy efficiency can be increased compared to that of the existing one.

[0129] Fig. 7 is a schematic diagram of a magnetic cooling device in a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments. Fig. 8 is a flow diagram of a working fluid in a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments.

[0130] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the magnet (132) can rotate relative to a plurality of magnetic heat modules (134, 135, 136, 137), and a magnetic field may or may not be applied to the magnetic heat modules (134, 135, 136, 137) based on the position of the magnet (132).

[0131] For example, based on the magnet (132) being placed adjacent to the first magnetic heat module (134) and the third magnetic heat module (136), a magnetic field may be applied to the first magnetic heat module (134) and the third magnetic heat module (136), and no magnetic field may be applied to the second magnetic heat module (135) and the fourth magnetic heat module (137).

[0132] At this time, the fluid can flow in the first direction in the first magnetic heat module (134) and the third magnetic heat module (136) (see FIG. 2), and the fluid can flow in the second direction in the second magnetic heat module (135) and the fourth magnetic heat module (137) (see FIG. 3).

[0133] The way in which the fluid flows in the first magnetic heat module (134) and the third magnetic heat module (136) is the same, and the way in which the fluid flows in the second magnetic heat module (135) and the fourth magnetic heat module (137) is the same. Therefore, the following description will be based on the first magnetic heat module (134) and the second magnetic heat module (135).

[0134] While a magnetic field is applied to the first magnetic heat module (134), a fluid that has received heat from the second heat exchanger (120) can flow to the first magnetic heat module (134) through the first communication channel (130f, 134a). The fluid flowing to the first magnetic heat module (134) can receive heat from the magnetic heat material (131) in the first magnetic heat module (134). The fluid that has received heat from the magnetic heat material (131) in the first magnetic heat module (134) can flow to the first heating channel (141a) passing through the heating unit (144a) through the first communication channel (130f, 134a). The fluid passing through the first heating channel (141a) can receive heat from the heating unit (144a). Therefore, the fluid passing through the first heating path (141a) can become hotter.

[0135] In addition, while a magnetic field is applied to the first magnetic heat module (134), the fluid that has released heat from the first heat exchanger (110) can flow to the second magnetic heat module (135) through the second communication passage (130g, 135b). The fluid flowing to the second magnetic heat module (135) can release heat to the magnetic heat material (131) in the second magnetic heat module (135). The fluid that has released heat to the magnetic heat material (131) of the second magnetic heat module (135) can flow to the first cooling passage (142d) passing through the cooling unit (144b) through the second communication passage (130g, 135b). The fluid passing through the first cooling passage (142d) can release heat to the cooling unit (144b). Therefore, the fluid passing through the first cooling channel (142d) can have a lower temperature.

[0136] The fluid passing through the first magnetic heat module (134) and the heating unit (144a), and the fluid passing through the second magnetic heat module (135) and the cooling unit (144b) can pass through the auxiliary cooling device (140) at the same time. The fluid passing through the first heating passage (141a) and the fluid passing through the first cooling passage (142d) can flow at the same time. Since the fluid passing through the first heating passage (141a) and the fluid passing through the first cooling passage (142d) flow at the same time, the heating unit (144a) and the cooling unit (144b) of the first auxiliary cooling unit (144) can be used at the same time. The magnetic cooling device (130) includes valves (138, 139) installed in pipes (161, 162) to control the flow of fluid flowing into a plurality of magnetic heat modules (144, 145, 146, 147), and the working fluid can flow from the magnetic cooling device (130) to the auxiliary cooling device (140) through the pipes (161, 162). Therefore, when the valves (138, 139) installed in the pipes (161, 162) are operated, the direction of fluid flow in the magnetic heat modules (144, 145, 146, 147) can be changed.

[0137] According to one or more embodiments, a first valve (1381) provided on the side of the first magnetic heat module (134) to control the direction of fluid flow toward the first magnetic heat module (134) receiving a magnetic field by the magnet (132) can open the first communication path (134a), and a second valve (1391) provided on the side of the first magnetic heat module (134) can close the second communication path (134b). Accordingly, the working fluid is heated while passing through the first magnetic heat module (134), and the heated working fluid can flow to the heating unit (141).

[0138] Conversely, the first valve (1382) provided on the side of the second magnetic heat module (135) can close the first communication passage (135a) to control the direction of fluid flow toward the second magnetic heat module (135) that is not subjected to the magnetic field by the magnet (132), and the second valve (1392) provided on the side of the second magnetic heat module (135) can open the second communication passage (135b). Accordingly, the working fluid is cooled while passing through the second magnetic heat module (135), and the cooled working fluid can flow to the cooling unit (142).

[0139] Finally, based on the fact that the magnetic field is applied to the first magnetic heat module (134) and not to the second magnetic heat module (135), the first valve (1381, 1382) and the second valve (1391, 1392) are controlled, and the fluid passing through the heating section (144a) of the first auxiliary cooling section (144) and the fluid passing through the cooling section (144b) of the first auxiliary cooling section (144) flow simultaneously, so that the heating section (144a) and the cooling section (144b) of the first auxiliary cooling section (144) can be used simultaneously.

[0140] Accordingly, the cooling cycle device (100) according to one or more embodiments can increase energy efficiency because heating and cooling can be performed simultaneously through a single auxiliary cooling device (140). In addition, since a separate device such as a fan is not required to process heat generated from the heating unit (144a) or heat absorbed from the cooling unit (144b), production and operating costs can be reduced.

[0141] The third magnetic heat module (136) can be operated in the same manner as the first magnetic heat module (134). The fluid passing through the third magnetic heat module (136) can flow through the first communication channel (136a) opened by the first valve (1383) and into the third heating channel (141c) passing through the heating unit (146a). In addition, the fourth magnetic heat module (137) can be operated in the same manner as the second magnetic heat module (135). The fluid passing through the fourth magnetic heat module (137) can flow through the second communication channel (137b) opened by the second valve (1394) and into the third cooling channel (142b) passing through the cooling unit (146b).

[0142] Ultimately, since the fluid passing through the heating section (146a) of the third auxiliary cooling section (146) and the fluid passing through the cooling section (146b) of the third auxiliary cooling section (146) flow simultaneously, the heating section (146a) and the cooling section (146b) of the third auxiliary cooling section (146) can be used simultaneously.

[0143] Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram of a magnetic cooling device in a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments. Fig. 10 is a flow diagram of a working fluid in a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments.

[0144] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, based on the magnet (132) being positioned adjacent to the second magnetic heat module (135) and the fourth magnetic heat module (137), a magnetic field may be applied to the second magnetic heat module (135) and the fourth magnetic heat module (137), and no magnetic field may be applied to the first magnetic heat module (134) and the third magnetic heat module (136).

[0145] At this time, the fluid can flow in the first direction in the second magnetic heat module (135) and the fourth magnetic heat module (137) (see FIG. 2), and the fluid can flow in the second direction in the first magnetic heat module (134) and the third magnetic heat module (136) (see FIG. 3).

[0146] Below, the second magnetic heat module (135) and the third magnetic heat module (136) are described as examples.

[0147] While a magnetic field is applied to the second magnetic heat module (135), the fluid that has received heat from the second heat exchanger (120) can flow to the second magnetic heat module (135) through the first communication channel (130f, 135a). The fluid flowing to the second magnetic heat module (135) can receive heat from the magnetic heat material (131) in the second magnetic heat module (135). The fluid that has received heat from the magnetic heat material (131) in the second magnetic heat module (135) can pass through the second heating channel (141b) through the first communication channel (130f, 135a). The fluid passing through the second heating channel (141b) can receive heat from the heating unit (145a). Therefore, the fluid passing through the second heating channel (141b) can have a higher temperature.

[0148] In addition, while a magnetic field is applied to the second magnetic heat module (135), the fluid that has released heat from the first heat exchanger (110) can flow to the third magnetic heat module (136) through the second communication channel (130g, 136b). The fluid flowing to the third magnetic heat module (136) can release heat to the magnetic heat material (131) in the third magnetic heat module (136). The fluid that has released heat to the magnetic heat material (131) in the third magnetic heat module (136) can pass through the second cooling channel (142c) through the second communication channel (130g, 136b). The fluid passing through the second cooling channel (142c) can release heat to the cooling unit (145b). Therefore, the fluid passing through the second cooling channel (142c) can have a lower temperature.

[0149] The fluid passing through the second magnetic heat module (135) and the heating unit (145a), and the fluid passing through the first magnetic heat module (134) and the cooling unit (145b) can pass through the auxiliary cooling device (140) at the same time. The fluid passing through the second heating passage (141b) and the fluid passing through the second cooling passage (142c) can flow at the same time. Since the fluid passing through the second heating passage (141b) and the fluid passing through the second cooling passage (142c) flow at the same time, the heating unit (145a) and the cooling unit (145b) of the second auxiliary cooling unit (145) can be used at the same time.

[0150] A first valve (1382) provided on the side of the second magnetic heat module (135) to control the direction of fluid flow toward the second magnetic heat module (135) receiving a magnetic field from the magnet (132) can open the first communication path (135a), and a second valve (1392) provided on the side of the second magnetic heat module (135) can close the second communication path (135b). Accordingly, the working fluid passing through the second magnetic heat module (135) is heated, and the heated working fluid can flow to the heating unit (145a).

[0151] Conversely, the first valve (1383) provided on the side of the third magnetic heat module (136) can close the first communication passage (136a) to control the direction of fluid flow to the third magnetic heat module (136) that is not subjected to the magnetic field by the magnet (132), and the second valve (1393) provided on the side of the third magnetic heat module (136) can open the second communication passage (135b). Accordingly, the working fluid passing through the third magnetic heat module (136) is cooled, and the cooled working fluid can flow to the cooling unit (145b).

[0152] Finally, based on the fact that the magnetic field is applied to the second magnetic heat module (135) and not to the third magnetic heat module (136), the first valve (1382, 1383) and the second valve (1392, 1393) are controlled, and the fluid passing through the heating section (145a) of the second auxiliary cooling section (145) and the fluid passing through the cooling section (145b) of the second auxiliary cooling section (145) flow simultaneously, so that the heating section (145a) and the cooling section (145b) of the second auxiliary cooling section (145) can be used simultaneously.

[0153] Accordingly, the cooling cycle device (100) according to one or more embodiments can simultaneously heat and cool through a single auxiliary cooling device (140), thereby increasing energy efficiency. In addition, since a separate device such as a fan is not required to process heat generated from the heating unit (145a) or heat absorbed from the cooling unit (145b), production and operating costs can be reduced.

[0154] The fourth magnetic heat module (137) can be operated in the same manner as the second magnetic heat module (135). The fluid passing through the fourth magnetic heat module (137) can flow through the first communication channel (137a) opened by the first valve (1384) and into the fourth heating channel (141d) passing through the heating unit (147a). In addition, the first magnetic heat module (134) can be operated in the same manner as the third magnetic heat module (136). The fluid passing through the first magnetic heat module (134) can flow through the second communication channel (134b) opened by the second valve (1391) and into the fourth cooling channel (142a) passing through the cooling unit (147b).

[0155] Ultimately, since the fluid passing through the heating section (147a) of the fourth auxiliary cooling section (147) and the fluid passing through the cooling section (147b) of the fourth auxiliary cooling section (147) flow simultaneously, the heating section (147a) and the cooling section (147b) of the fourth auxiliary cooling section (147) can be used simultaneously.

[0156] FIG. 11 is a control diagram of a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments.

[0157] Referring to FIG. 11, a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments may further include a control unit. The control unit (200) may include hardware such as a CPU, a Micom, a memory, and software such as a control program. The control unit (200) may include at least one memory (220) that stores data in the form of a program and an algorithm for controlling the operation of components of the cooling cycle device, and at least one processor (210) that performs the operations described above and operations to be described below using data stored in the at least one memory (220). The memory (220) and the processor (210) may each be implemented as separate chips. The processor (210) may include one or more processor chips or one or more processing cores. The memory (220) may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks. In addition, the memory (220) and the processor (210) may be implemented as a single chip.

[0158] The cooling cycle device (100) may further include a driving device (133). The driving device (133) may further include a motor and a bearing. The driving device (133) may rotate the magnet (132).

[0159] The cooling cycle device (100) may further include a sensor (190). The sensor (190) may sense the position of the magnet (132) and transmit information about the position of the magnet (132) to the control unit (200).

[0160] The controller (200) can control the valves (138, 139). The controller (200) can determine the position of the magnet (132) based on the value of the sensor (190). Based on the determined position of the magnet (132), the controller (200) can control the valves (138, 139) to change the direction of fluid flow in the plurality of magneto-thermal modules (134, 135, 136, 137). For example, the controller (200) can control the operating timing of the valves (138, 139) based on the position of the magnet (132). However, the controller (200) can also control the magnet (132) and the valves (138, 139) based on the preset rotation speed of the magnet (132) and the valve (138, 139) control timing values.

[0161] According to one or more embodiments, referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, based on the magnet (132) being positioned such that it can apply a magnetic field to the first magnetic heat module (134) and not apply a magnetic field to the second magnetic heat module (135), the control unit (200) can control the first valve (1381) and the second valve (1391) to open the first communication passage (134a) and to close the second communication passage (134b) so that the working fluid flows in the first direction in the first magnetic heat module (134). In addition, the control unit (200) can control the first valve (1382) and the second valve (1392) to close the first communication path (135a) and to open the second communication path (135b) so that the working fluid flows in the second direction in the second magnetic heat module (135). Accordingly, while the working fluid that has passed through the first magnetic heat module (134) to which a magnetic field is applied by the magnet (132) passes through the heating part (144a) of the first auxiliary cooling part (144), the working fluid that has passed through the second magnetic heat module (135) while the magnetic field is not applied can pass through the cooling part (144b) of the first auxiliary cooling part (144).

[0162] According to one or more embodiments, referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, based on the magnet (132) being positioned such that it can apply a magnetic field to the second magnetic heat module (135) and not apply a magnetic field to the third magnetic heat module (136), the control unit (200) can control the first valve (1382) and the second valve (1392) to open the first communication channel (135a) and to close the second communication channel (135b) so that the working fluid flows in the first direction in the second magnetic heat module (135). In addition, the control unit (200) can control the first valve (1383) and the second valve (1393) to close the first communication passage (136a) and to open the second communication passage (136b) so that the working fluid flows in the second direction in the third magnetic heat module (136). Accordingly, while the working fluid that has passed through the second magnetic heat module (135) to which a magnetic field is applied by the magnet (132) passes through the heating section (145a) of the second auxiliary cooling section (145), the working fluid that has passed through the third magnetic heat module (136) while the magnetic field is not applied can pass through the cooling section (145b) of the second auxiliary cooling section (145).

[0163] In addition, the control unit (200) can control the first valve (1383, 1384) and the second valve (1393, 1394) so ​​that the fluid passing through the first magnetic heat module (134) and the fluid passing through the third magnetic heat module (136) flow in the same manner, and the fluid passing through the second magnetic heat module (135) and the fluid passing through the fourth magnetic heat module (137) flow in the same manner.

[0164] The control unit (200) can control the driving device (133) to rotate or stop the magnet (132) or adjust the rotation speed of the magnet (132). In addition, the control unit (200) can control the valves (138, 139) according to the rotation speed of the magnet (132).

[0165] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments.

[0166] Referring to FIG. 12, in a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments, a first tank (151) can store a fluid heated from a heating unit (141), and the fluid in the first tank (151) can be in contact with the heating unit (141). A second tank (152) can store a fluid cooled from a cooling unit (142), and the fluid in the second tank (152) can be in contact with the cooling unit (142).

[0167] According to one or more embodiments, the fluid within the first tank (151) may be in contact with the fins of the heating element (141). Additionally, the fluid within the second tank (152) may be in contact with the fins of the cooling element (142).

[0168] Alternatively, for example, the first plate (143a) of the thermoelectric element (143) may become a wall forming the first tank (151), or the second plate (143b) of the thermoelectric element (143) may become a wall forming the second tank (152).

[0169] Accordingly, the first tank (151) and the second tank (152) can be positioned together with the auxiliary cooling device (140) without having to be positioned in different locations, thereby increasing the space utilization of the cooling cycle device (100).

[0170] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments.

[0171] Referring to FIG. 13, the cooling cycle device (100) may include an auxiliary heating device (241). The auxiliary heating device (241) may be a device that additionally heats the fluid passing through the magnetic cooling device (130). The auxiliary heating device (241) is disposed downstream of the magnetic cooling device (130) and upstream of the first tank (151), and the fluid heated in the magnetic cooling device (130) may flow to the auxiliary heating device (241). The auxiliary heating device (241) may further heat the fluid flowing through the magnetic cooling device (130) to the first heat exchanger (110) to assist in heating the magnetic cooling device (130).

[0172] The auxiliary heating device (241) may include a first heat exchanger (241a). The first heat exchanger (241a) may absorb heat from the outside of the auxiliary heating device (241). The first heat exchanger (241a) may absorb heat from a gas outside of the auxiliary heating device (241).

[0173] The auxiliary heating device (241) may further include a second heat exchanger (241b). The second heat exchanger (241b) may release heat from the magnetic cooling device (130) to the fluid flowing into the first heat exchanger (110). Accordingly, the working fluid passing through the second heat exchanger (241b) may be heated.

[0174] The cooling cycle device (100) may further include an auxiliary cooling device (242). The auxiliary cooling device (242) may be a device that additionally cools the fluid passing through the magnetic cooling device (130). The auxiliary cooling device (242) is disposed downstream of the magnetic cooling device (130) and upstream of the second tank (152), and the fluid cooled in the magnetic cooling device (130) may flow to the auxiliary cooling device (242). The auxiliary cooling device (242) may further cool the fluid flowing through the magnetic cooling device (130) to the second heat exchanger (120) to assist in cooling the magnetic cooling device (130).

[0175] The auxiliary cooling device (242) may include a first heat exchanger (242a). The first heat exchanger (242a) may release heat to the outside of the auxiliary cooling device (242). The first heat exchanger (242a) may release heat to a gas outside of the auxiliary cooling device (242).

[0176] The auxiliary cooling device (242) may further include a second heat exchanger (242b). The second heat exchanger (242b) may absorb heat from the fluid flowing from the magnetic cooling device (130) to the second heat exchanger (120). Accordingly, the working fluid passing through the second heat exchanger (242b) may be cooled.

[0177] Ultimately, due to the auxiliary heating device (241) and the auxiliary cooling device (242), the fluid flowing into the first heat exchanger (110) is further heated, and the fluid flowing into the second heat exchanger (120) is further cooled, so that the heat exchange efficiency in the first heat exchanger (110) and the second heat exchanger (120) can be increased. In addition, since the fluid flowing into the second heat exchanger (120) can be at a very low temperature, the space to be cooled can be made to have a lower temperature.

[0178] According to one or more embodiments, the auxiliary heating device (241) and / or the auxiliary cooling device (242) may include a thermoelectric device. However, the auxiliary heating device (241) and / or the auxiliary cooling device (242) are not limited to thermoelectric devices. For example, the auxiliary heating device (241) and / or the auxiliary cooling device (242) may include a steam cooling device, a refrigerant-based refrigeration cycle device, a fan-based air cooling device, a water cooling method using cooling water, etc.

[0179] In the cooling cycle device (100), at least one of an auxiliary heating device (241) and an auxiliary cooling device (242) may be used. According to one or more embodiments, in the cooling cycle device (100), only the auxiliary heating device (241) or only the auxiliary cooling device (242) may be used.

[0180] Fig. 14 is a perspective view of an appliance including a cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments. Fig. 14 illustrates a refrigerator (1a) as an example of the appliance (1).

[0181] Referring to FIG. 14, a refrigerator (1a) according to one or more embodiments may include a main body (10a), a storage compartment (20a, 30a) formed inside the main body (10a), and a door (21a, 22a, 31a) provided to open and close the storage compartment (20a, 30a).

[0182] The main body (10a) may include an inner case (11a) forming a storage room (20a, 30a), an outer case (12a) coupled to the outer side of the inner case (11a), and an insulating material provided between the inner case (11a) and the outer case (12a).

[0183] The inner surface (11a) can be formed by injection molding from a plastic material, and the outer surface (12a) can be formed from a metal material. The insulation material can be a urethane foam insulation material, and if necessary, a vacuum insulation material can also be used.

[0184] Urethane foam insulation can be formed by filling and foaming a foamed urethane mixture containing urethane and a foaming agent between the inner case (11a) and the outer case (12a) after they are joined. The foamed urethane has strong adhesive properties, which can strengthen the bonding between the inner case (11a) and the outer case (12a), and can have sufficient strength once foaming is complete.

[0185] The main body (10a) may include an intermediate wall (13a) that divides the storage compartments (20a, 30a) into upper and lower sections. The intermediate wall (13a) may divide the refrigerator compartment (20a) and the freezer compartment (30a).

[0186] Meanwhile, the compartment shape of the storage room (20a, 30a) is not limited to that shown and can be implemented in various forms known in the art.

[0187] The storage compartment (20a, 30a) may include a refrigerating compartment (20a) formed in the upper part of the main body (10a) and a freezing compartment (30a) formed in the lower part of the main body (10a). The freezing compartment (30a) may be provided on the lower side of the refrigerating compartment (20a).

[0188] The refrigerator (20a) is maintained at approximately 0 to 5 degrees Celsius, allowing food to be stored in a refrigerated state. The freezer (30) is maintained at approximately -30 to 0 degrees Celsius, allowing food to be stored in a frozen state.

[0189] A refrigerator (20a) may be provided with a shelf (23a) for placing food and a storage container (24a) for storing food.

[0190] The refrigerator (20a) and the freezer (30a) may each have an open front to allow food to be taken in and out. The open front of the refrigerator (20a) may be opened and closed by a pair of refrigerator doors (21a, 22a) that are coupled to the main body (10a). The refrigerator doors (21a, 22a) may be rotatably coupled to the main body (10a). The open front of the freezer (30a) may be opened and closed by a freezer door (31a) that is slidable relative to the main body (10a). The freezer door (31a) may be provided in a box shape with an approximately open upper surface, and may include a front plate (32a) forming an exterior appearance, and a drawer (33a) coupled to the rear of the front plate (32a).

[0191] However, the shape of the freezer door (31a) is not limited to this, and it can of course be provided in a shape that is rotatably coupled to the main body (10a), like the refrigerator door (21a, 22a).

[0192] A gasket may be provided on the rear edge of the refrigerator door (21, 22) to seal the space between the refrigerator door (21a, 22a) and the main body (10a) when the refrigerator door (21a, 22a) is closed, thereby blocking cold air from the refrigerator door (20a).

[0193] A cooling chamber may be formed within the main body (10a). The cooling chamber may be formed within the inner case (11a) and may be arranged at the rear of the storage chamber (20a, 30a). A refrigerator (1a) according to one or more embodiments may include a cold air supply device (100) that supplies cold air to a cooling space to be cooled. For example, the cooling space may be a storage chamber (20a, 30a). The cold air supply device (100) may include a cooling cycle device (100) according to one or more embodiments. Each component of the cooling cycle device (100) may be accommodated within the main body (10a). A first heat exchanger (110), a second heat exchanger (120), a magnetic cooling device (130), and an auxiliary cooling device (140) of the cooling cycle device (100) may be accommodated within the main body (10a) of the refrigerator (1a). The first heat exchanger (110) can be placed in the machine room, and the second heat exchanger (120) can be placed in the cooling room.

[0194] However, this is not limited thereto, and the first heat exchanger (110), the second heat exchanger (120), the magnetic cooling device (130), and the auxiliary cooling device (140) of the refrigeration cycle device (100) may not be accommodated within the main body (10a), but may be placed outside the main body (10a).

[0195] A refrigerator (1a) may include a machine room formed at the lower rear side within a main body (10a), a blower fan positioned within the machine room, and an exhaust hole formed in the main body (10a).

[0196] Each component of the cooling cycle device (100) may be placed in the machine room. At least one of the compressor, the first heat exchanger, and the auxiliary cooling device may be placed in the machine room.

[0197] A blower fan may also be positioned within the machine room. The blower fan may be operated based on the operation of the first heat exchanger positioned within the machine room. The first heat exchanger may release heat into the machine room, thereby heating the air within the machine room. When the blower fan operates, the heated air within the machine room may be discharged outside the machine room (e.g., outside the main body) through the exhaust hole.

[0198] An exhaust hole may be formed in the wall of the outer body (12a). The exhaust hole may be formed in the rear wall of the outer body (12a) forming the machine room, and when the first heat exchanger (110) and the blower fan operate, air inside the machine room may flow to the outside of the main body (10a) through the exhaust hole.

[0199] In addition, the shape of the refrigerator (1a) may not be limited to that described above, and may be provided in various forms, such as a TMF type refrigerator in which a freezer is formed in the upper part of the main body (10) and a refrigerator is formed in the lower part of the main body (10), or an SBS (Side By Side) type refrigerator.

[0200] Moreover, it goes without saying that any refrigerator (1a) can be applied as long as it is supplied with cold air by a cold air supply device (100).

[0201] Fig. 15 is a perspective view of a home appliance including a refrigeration cycle device according to one or more embodiments. Fig. 15 illustrates an indoor unit (1b) of an air conditioner as an example of the home appliance (1). Fig. 16 is a side cross-sectional view of a home appliance including a refrigeration cycle device according to one or more embodiments. Fig. 16 is a side cross-sectional view of the indoor unit of the air conditioner of Fig. 15.

[0202] Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, an air conditioner including a cooling cycle device (100) according to one or more embodiments may include an indoor unit (1b) that absorbs heat and supplies cold air to a cooling space to be cooled, and an outdoor unit that releases heat to an external space. The cooling space may be a room in which the indoor unit (1b) of the air conditioner is installed.

[0203] In an air conditioner according to one or more embodiments, the first heat exchanger (110) of the cooling cycle device (100) may be disposed within the outdoor unit, and the second heat exchanger (120) may be disposed within the indoor unit (1b).

[0204] The indoor unit (1b) of the air conditioner can be installed in the ceiling (C). At least a portion of the indoor unit (1b) of the air conditioner can be embedded in the ceiling (C).

[0205] The indoor unit (1b) of the air conditioner may include a housing (10b) having an intake port (20b) and an exhaust port (21b), a heat exchanger (120) provided inside the housing (10b), and a blower fan (40b) for circulating air.

[0206] The housing (10b) may have a roughly circular shape. The housing (10b) may be composed of an upper housing (11b), a middle housing (12b) coupled below the upper housing (11b), and a lower housing (13b) coupled below the middle housing (12b). At least a portion of the upper housing (11b) and the middle housing (12b) may be embedded within the ceiling (C).

[0207] An intake port (20b) through which air is sucked may be formed in the central portion of the lower housing (13b), and an outlet port (21b) through which air is discharged may be formed on the radially outer side of the intake port (20b). The outlet port (21b) may have a roughly circular shape when viewed vertically.

[0208] With this structure, the indoor unit (1b) of the air conditioner can suck in air from the lower side, cool and heat it, and then discharge it back to the lower side.

[0209] A grill (15b) can be combined at the lower part of the lower housing (13b) to filter out dust from the air sucked in through the intake port (20b).

[0210] The heat exchanger (120) can be the second heat exchanger (120) of the cooling cycle device (100).

[0211] The heat exchanger (120) may have a roughly circular shape when viewed vertically. The heat exchanger (120) is placed on a drain tray (16b) so that condensate generated in the heat exchanger (120) can be collected on the drain tray (16b).

[0212] A blower fan (40b) may be provided radially inside the heat exchanger (120). The blower fan (40b) may be a centrifugal fan that sucks in air in the axial direction and discharges it in the radial direction. A blower motor (41b) for driving the blower fan (40b) may be provided in the indoor unit (1b) of the air conditioner.

[0213] With this configuration, the indoor unit (1b) of the air conditioner can suck in indoor air, cool it, and then discharge it into the room, or suck in indoor air, heat it, and then discharge it into the room.

[0214] The indoor unit (1b) of the air conditioner may further include an air flow control device (50b) that controls the discharge air flow.

[0215] The airflow control device (50b) can control the direction of the discharge airflow by changing the pressure by sucking in the air around the discharge port (21b). In addition, the airflow control device (50b) can control the amount of air sucked in around the discharge port (21b). The airflow control device (50b) can control the direction of the discharge airflow by controlling the amount of air sucked in around the discharge port (21b). The airflow control device (50b) can control the angle of the discharge airflow.

[0216] The airflow control device (50b) can suck in air from one side of the direction of travel of the discharged airflow when sucking in air around the discharge port (21b). At this time, the angle of transition can be adjusted depending on the amount of suction. When the amount of suction is small, the transition can be made at a small angle, and when the amount of suction is large, the direction of travel can be changed at a large angle.

[0217] The airflow control device (50b) can discharge the inhaled air to one side of the direction of the discharged airflow. In particular, the airflow control device (50b) can discharge the air in the opposite direction to the direction in which it was inhaled. This allows the angle of the discharged airflow to be increased, and airflow control can be performed more smoothly.

[0218] The airflow control device (50b) can suck in air from the radially outer side of the discharge port (21b) (or from the upper side of the discharge airflow). In this way, since the airflow control device (50b) sucks in air from the radially outer side of the discharge port (21b), the discharge airflow can spread widely from the radially center of the discharge port (21b) to the radially outer side.

[0219] The airflow control device (50b) may include an airflow control fan (60b) that generates suction force to suck in air around the discharge port (21b), an airflow control motor (61) for driving the airflow control fan (60b), and a guide path (70b) that guides the air sucked in by the airflow control fan (60b).

[0220] In addition, according to one or more embodiments, a centrifugal fan is used as the airflow control fan (60b), but is not limited thereto, and various fans such as an axial fan, a cross-flow fan, and a diagonal fan may be used depending on the design specifications.

[0221] The guide path (70b) connects the inlet (71b) that sucks in air around the discharge port (21b) and the outlet (72b) that discharges the sucked air. If the path connecting the inlet (20b) and the discharge port (21b) is called the main path, the guide path (70b) can be said to be formed by branching off from the main path.

[0222] The inlet (71b) may be composed of a plurality of slits having an arc shape. The plurality of slits may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance along the circumferential direction.

[0223] The outlet (72b) can be located around the discharge port (21b) on the opposite side of the inlet port (71b).

[0224] The guide path (70b) is formed in a circumferential direction on the outside of the housing (10b). Air sucked in through the inlet (71b) can pass through the guide path (70b) and be discharged through the outlet (72b).

[0225] With this configuration, the indoor unit of the air conditioner according to one or more embodiments can control the discharge airflow without a blade structure. Accordingly, since there is no interference by the blades, the discharge amount can be increased and the flow noise can be reduced.

[0226] The discharge port of the indoor unit of the air conditioner according to one or more embodiments may be formed in a circular shape, and the housing and heat exchanger, etc. may also be formed in a circular shape, so that not only can the aesthetic appeal be improved through a differentiated design, but considering that the shape of the blower fan is generally circular, the airflow is naturally generated and the pressure loss is reduced, so that the cooling or heating performance of the air conditioner can be improved as a result.

[0227] In one or more embodiments, the heat exchanger (120) disposed within the indoor unit (1b) of the air conditioner may be the second heat exchanger (120) of the cooling cycle device (100), and the heat exchanger disposed within the outdoor unit may be the first heat exchanger (110) of the cooling cycle device (100).

[0228] Although a ceiling-type indoor unit (1b) is illustrated in FIGS. 16 and 17, the indoor unit (1b) of the air conditioner is not limited to the illustrated example, and the cooling cycle device (100) according to one or more embodiments can also be applied to a standing indoor unit (1b) and a wall-mounted indoor unit (1b).

[0229] A cooling cycle device (100) according to one or more embodiments may include a first heat exchanger (110) configured to emit heat and a second heat exchanger (120) configured to absorb heat, a magnetic cooling device (130) including a magnetocaloric material (131) and configured to heat a fluid flowing into the first heat exchanger and cool a fluid flowing into the second heat exchanger, and an auxiliary cooling device (140) including a heating unit (141) configured to heat the fluid heated in the magnetic cooling device and flowing into the first heat exchanger, and a cooling unit (142) configured to cool the fluid cooled in the magnetic cooling device and flowing into the second heat exchanger.

[0230] The auxiliary cooling device (140) includes a thermoelectric element (143) configured to heat the heating element and cool the cooling element, and the heating element may be arranged on one side of the thermoelectric element (143) and the cooling element may be arranged on the other side of the thermoelectric element.

[0231] It further includes a first pipe (161) that allows the fluid to flow from the magnetic cooling device to the heating unit and forms a heating path (141a, 141b, 141c, 141d) passing through the heating unit, and a second pipe (162) that allows the fluid to flow from the magnetic cooling device to the cooling unit and forms a cooling path (142a, 142b, 142c, 142d) passing through the cooling unit, and the heating path and the cooling path can be opened so that the fluid heated from the magnetic cooling device is heated while passing through the heating unit, while the fluid cooled from the magnetic cooling device is cooled while passing through the cooling unit.

[0232] It further includes a first valve (138) installed in the first pipe to open and close the heating path, a second valve (139) installed in the second pipe to open and close the cooling path, and a control unit (200) configured to control the first valve and the second valve, wherein the control unit can operate the first valve and the second valve so that the fluid heated from the magnetic cooling device is heated while passing through the heating unit, while the fluid cooled from the magnetic cooling device is cooled while passing through the cooling unit.

[0233] The magnetic cooling device (130) includes a first magneto-thermal material (131), a first internal flow path (130e) in which the first magneto-thermal material is arranged, a first magneto-thermal module (134) capable of heating the fluid flowing from the second heat exchanger to the heating section based on a change in the magnetic field applied to the first magneto-thermal material, a second magneto-thermal material (131), and a second internal flow path (130e) in which the second magneto-thermal material is arranged, and a second magneto-thermal module (135) capable of cooling the fluid flowing from the first heat exchanger to the cooling section based on a change in the magnetic field applied to the second magneto-thermal material, and the first internal flow path is connected to the heating flow path so that the fluid heated from the first magneto-thermal module is heated while passing through the heating section, while the fluid cooled from the second magneto-thermal module is cooled while passing through the cooling section. The second internal passage may be connected and communicated with the cooling passage.

[0234] The first magnetic heat module includes a first communication channel (130f, 134a) connecting the first internal channel and the heating channel so that the fluid in the first internal channel flows from the second heat exchanger to the heating unit, and a second communication channel (130g, 134b) connecting the first internal channel and the cooling channel so that the fluid in the first internal channel flows from the first heat exchanger to the cooling unit, and the second magnetic heat module includes a first communication channel (130f, 135a) connecting the second internal channel and the heating channel so that the fluid in the second internal channel flows from the second heat exchanger to the heating unit, and a second communication channel (130g, 135b) connecting the second internal channel and the cooling channel so that the fluid in the second internal channel flows from the first heat exchanger to the cooling unit, and The control unit (200) can control the first valve (138) to open the first communication path of the first magnetic heat module and close the first communication path of the second magnetic heat module, and can control the second valve (139) to close the second communication path of the first magnetic heat module and open the second communication path of the second magnetic heat module.

[0235] The above fluid may be a liquid.

[0236] The cooling unit (242) may include a first heat exchange unit (242a) that exchanges heat with a fluid outside the cooling unit and a second heat exchange unit (242b) that cools the fluid flowing from the magnetic cooling device to the second heat exchanger.

[0237] The fluid flowing through the second heat exchanger of the cooling unit may be a liquid.

[0238] It may further include a first tank (151) for storing the fluid heated from the heating unit to supply the fluid to the first heat exchanger, and a second tank (152) for storing the fluid cooled from the cooling unit to supply the fluid to the second heat exchanger.

[0239] The first tank may be disposed downstream of the heating unit and upstream of the first heat exchanger, and the second tank may be disposed downstream of the cooling unit and upstream of the second heat exchanger.

[0240] The fluid stored in the first tank can be brought into contact with the heating unit, and the fluid stored in the second tank can be brought into contact with the cooling unit.

[0241] The magneto-caloric material is provided in plurality, and the plurality of magneto-caloric materials have different Curie temperatures. The magnetic cooling device may further include a magnet (132) configured to be rotatable relative to the magneto-caloric material on the outside of the magneto-caloric material in order to apply a magnetic field to the plurality of magneto-caloric materials, and a driving device (133) configured to rotate the magnet.

[0242] A cooling cycle device according to one or more embodiments may include a first heat exchanger (110) and a second heat exchanger (120), a magnetic cooling device (130) including a magnetocaloric material (131) and configured to heat a fluid flowing into the first heat exchanger and cool a fluid flowing into the second heat exchanger, an auxiliary heating device (241) configured to heat the fluid heated in the magnetic cooling device and flowing into the first heat exchanger, and an auxiliary cooling device (242) configured to cool the fluid cooled in the magnetic cooling device and flowing into the second heat exchanger, the auxiliary cooling device (242) including a first heat exchanger (242a) for releasing heat to an external fluid, and a second heat exchanger (242b) for absorbing heat from the fluid cooled in the magnetic cooling device and flowing into the second heat exchanger.

[0243] The auxiliary heating device (241) may include a first heat exchanger (241a) that absorbs heat from a fluid outside the auxiliary heating device and a second heat exchanger (241b) that releases heat to a fluid flowing from the magnetic cooling device to the first heat exchanger.

[0244] An appliance according to one or more embodiments may include a cooling cycle device (100) configured to supply cold air to a cooling space (20a, 30a), wherein the cooling cycle device (100) includes a first heat exchanger (110) configured to emit heat and a second heat exchanger (120) configured to absorb heat from air supplied to the cooling space, a magnetic cooling device (130) including a magnetocaloric material (131) and configured to heat a fluid flowing into the first heat exchanger and cool a fluid flowing into the second heat exchanger, and an auxiliary cooling device (140) including a heating unit (141) configured to heat the fluid heated in the magnetic cooling device and flowing into the first heat exchanger, and a cooling unit (142) configured to cool the fluid cooled in the magnetic cooling device and flowing into the second heat exchanger.

[0245] The auxiliary cooling device (140) includes a thermoelectric element (143) configured to heat the heating element and cool the cooling element, and the heating element may be arranged on one side of the thermoelectric element (143) and the cooling element may be arranged on the other side of the thermoelectric element.

[0246] The cooling cycle device (100) further includes a first pipe (161) that allows the fluid to flow from the magnetic cooling device to the first heat exchanger and forms a heating path (141a, 141b, 141c, 141d) that passes through the heating unit, and a second pipe (162) that allows the fluid to flow from the magnetic cooling device to the second heat exchanger and forms a cooling path (142a, 142b, 142c, 142d) that passes through the cooling unit, and the heating path and the cooling path can be opened so that the fluid heated from the magnetic cooling device is heated while passing through the heating unit, while the fluid cooled from the magnetic cooling device is cooled while passing through the cooling unit.

[0247] The cooling cycle device (100) further includes a first valve (138) installed in the first pipe to open and close the heating path, a second valve (139) installed in the second pipe to open and close the cooling path, and a control unit (200) configured to control the first valve and the second valve, wherein the control unit can operate the first valve and the second valve so that the fluid heated from the magnetic cooling device is heated while passing through the heating unit, while the fluid cooled from the magnetic cooling device is cooled while passing through the cooling unit.

[0248] While specific embodiments of the present disclosure have been specifically illustrated and described, it will be understood that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A first heat exchanger configured to emit heat and a second heat exchanger configured to absorb heat; A magnetic cooling device comprising a magnetic caloric material and configured to heat a first fluid flowing into the first heat exchanger and cool a second fluid flowing into the second heat exchanger; and A cooling cycle device comprising an auxiliary cooling device including a heater configured to further heat the first fluid flowing into the first heat exchanger, and a cooler configured to further cool the second fluid flowing into the second heat exchanger.

2. In paragraph 1, The above auxiliary cooling device, Further comprising a thermoelectric element configured to heat the heating unit and cool the cooling unit, A cooling cycle device in which the heating unit is arranged on one side of the thermoelectric element and the cooling unit is arranged on the other side of the thermoelectric element.

3. In paragraph 2, A first pipe configured to allow the first fluid to flow from the magnetic cooling device to the first heat exchanger and form a heating path passing through the heating unit; and Further comprising a second pipe configured to allow the second fluid to flow from the self-cooling device to the second heat exchanger and form a cooling path passing through the cooling unit; A cooling cycle device that opens the heating path and the cooling path so that the first fluid is further heated as it passes through the heating section, while the second fluid is further cooled as it passes through the cooling section.

4. In paragraph 3, A first valve configured to open and close the heating path and installed in the first pipe; A second valve configured to open and close the cooling path and installed in the second pipe; and Further comprising a control unit configured to control the first valve and the second valve; The above control unit is a cooling cycle device that operates the first valve and the second valve so that the first fluid is further heated as it passes through the heating unit, while the second fluid is further cooled as it passes through the cooling unit.

5. In paragraph 4, The above magnetic cooling device, A first magneto-thermal module comprising a first magneto-thermal material and a first internal passage in which the first magneto-thermal material is arranged, and capable of heating the first fluid based on a change in a magnetic field applied to the first magneto-thermal material; and A second magneto-thermal module including a second magneto-thermal material and a second internal path in which the second magneto-thermal material is arranged, and capable of cooling the second fluid based on a change in the magnetic field applied to the second magneto-thermal material; further comprising: A cooling cycle device in which the first internal passage communicates with the heating passage and the second internal passage communicates with the cooling passage so that the first fluid is further heated as it passes through the heating section while the second fluid is further cooled as it passes through the cooling section.

6. In paragraph 5, The above first magnetic heat module, A first communication channel configured to allow the first fluid in the first internal channel to flow from the second heat exchanger to the heating section and to connect the first internal channel and the heating channel; and Further comprising a second communication channel configured to allow the second fluid within the first internal passage to flow from the first heat exchanger to the cooling section and to connect the first internal passage and the cooling passage; The above second magnetic heat module, A third communication channel configured to allow the first fluid in the second internal channel to flow from the second heat exchanger to the heating section and to connect the second internal channel and the heating channel; and Further comprising a fourth communication channel configured to allow the second fluid within the second internal channel to flow from the first heat exchanger to the cooling unit and to connect the second internal channel and the cooling channel; A cooling cycle device, wherein the control unit is configured to further control the first valve to open the first communication passage of the first magnetic heating module and close the third communication passage of the second magnetic heating module, and further control the second valve to close the second communication passage of the first magnetic heating module and open the fourth communication passage of the second magnetic heating module.

7. In paragraph 6, A cooling cycle device wherein the first fluid is a liquid.

8. In paragraph 1, The above cooling unit, A first heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with the first fluid outside the cooling unit; and A cooling cycle device including a second heat exchanger configured to cool the second fluid flowing from the magnetic cooling device to the second heat exchanger.

9. In paragraph 8, A cooling cycle device in which the second fluid flowing through the second heat exchanger of the cooling unit is a liquid.

10. In paragraph 1, A first tank configured to store the first fluid before being supplied to the first heat exchanger; and A cooling cycle device further comprising a second tank configured to store the second fluid before being supplied to the second heat exchanger.

11. In paragraph 10, The above first tank is placed downstream of the heating unit and upstream of the first heat exchanger, The second tank is a cooling cycle device positioned downstream of the cooling unit and upstream of the second heat exchanger.

12. In paragraph 10, The first fluid stored in the first tank is brought into contact with the heating unit, A cooling cycle device in which the second fluid stored in the second tank comes into contact with the cooling unit.

13. In paragraph 1, The above magnetic caloric material is provided in multiples, The above-mentioned plurality of magnetocaloric materials have different Curie temperatures, The above magnetic cooling device, A magnet configured to be rotatable relative to the plurality of magneto-thermal materials on the outside of the plurality of magneto-thermal materials to apply a magnetic field to the plurality of magneto-thermal materials; and A cooling cycle device further comprising a driver configured to rotate the magnet.

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