Thermoelastic Regenerator Cooling Using Solid-State Phase Transitions
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current vapor compression refrigeration technologies are inefficient and environmentally harmful due to high energy consumption and reliance on greenhouse gas refrigerants, necessitating the development of a cost-effective, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly cooling solution.
Innovation Solution
A thermoelastic cooling system utilizing solid refrigerant materials that undergo reversible solid-to-solid phase transitions to absorb and release latent heat, with a regenerator connected to both the refrigerated space and heat sink to optimize heat exchange and energy utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If vapor compression technology is used for cooling, then cooling capacity is achieved, but energy consumption is high and greenhouse gas emissions occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes solid-to-solid phase transitions in shape memory alloy materials (austenite to martensite transformation) to achieve cooling without vapor compression. The phase transition absorbs latent heat during martensite formation, providing refrigeration effect while eliminating the need for harmful refrigerant gases and reducing energy consumption compared to traditional vapor compression cycles
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical vapor compression system with a thermoelastic system driven by stress-induced phase transitions in shape memory materials. The mechanical stress applied to the material induces martensite phase formation, which absorbs heat, thereby substituting the traditional mechanical compression-refrigeration cycle with a direct stress-heat coupling mechanism
2Ease of operation
If vapor compression systems are used, then cooling is provided, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates complex components from traditional vapor compression systems (compressor, condenser, expansion valve, evaporator) by using a single shape memory alloy material that performs multiple functions through phase transitions. The material itself acts as both the refrigerant and the heat transfer medium, significantly simplifying the overall system architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The shape memory alloy material serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the refrigerant medium, the heat transfer material, and the actuating element. The same material that undergoes phase transition to absorb heat also provides the mechanical response needed for cycle operation, reducing the number of separate components required
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The thermoelastic cooling system achieves high efficiency and reduced greenhouse gas emissions, with a coefficient of performance (COP) 22% higher than current vapor compression technology, and is cost-effective with potential for widespread application in refrigeration and cooling systems.
Implementation Method 1
the present invention relates to solid-state thermodynamic heat pump cycles or refrigeration cycles based on thermoelastic effect
Implementation Method 2
the thermoelastic material undergoes a phase transition from the austenite phase to the martensite phase, releasing latent heat, when mechanically stressed, and undergoing a phase transition from the martensite phase to the austenite phase, absorbing latent heat
Data Source
AI summary
A cooling system based on thermoelastic effect is provided. The system comprises a heat sink, a refrigerated space and a regenerator coupled to the refrigerated space and to the heat sink to pump heat from the refrigerated space to the heat sink. The regenerator comprises solid thermoelastic refrigerant materials capable of absorbing or releasing heat.