JP2006112709A - Magnetic refrigerating device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a magnetic refrigerating device easy to control during operation with a simplified structure. <P>SOLUTION: In this magnetic refrigerating device 100, a magnetic work material 2 is put in and out of a magnetic field formed by a magnetic field generating means 1 by rotating a drum 3 containing the material 2, and a heat medium 6 is carried in a heat medium passage 7 contacting with the material 2 by use of centrifugal force, the heat medium 6 raised in temperature by heat exchange with the material 2 raised in temperature by magnetization is passed through a heat exhausting-side heat exchanger 12-1 to exhaust the heat, and the heat medium 6 reduced in temperature by heat-exchange with the material 2 reduced in temperature by demagnetization is passed through a cooling-side heat exchanger 12-2 to cool a heat-exchange object. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a magnetic refrigeration apparatus. More specifically, the present invention relates to a magnetic refrigeration apparatus that performs refrigeration via a heat medium that exchanges heat with a magnetic body that has changed in temperature due to the magnetocaloric effect.

  Certain magnetic working materials exhibit large temperature changes upon magnetization or demagnetization. This is called the magnetocaloric effect. Physically, the degree of freedom of the magnetic spin inside the magnetic material is affected by the magnetic field, and is caused by the entropy change of the magnetic system as a result. A refrigerator using this is called a magnetic refrigeration apparatus.

  FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining the principle of magnetic refrigeration. FIG. 13 shows the principle of magnetic refrigeration in comparison with general gas refrigeration. FIG. 13 shows a magnetic refrigeration cycle by steps a to d, and a gas refrigeration cycle by steps e to h. In the gas refrigeration cycle, when adiabatic compression is performed, the temperature rises (step e), heat is exhausted (step f), and when adiabatic expansion occurs, the temperature falls (step g), and the heat is absorbed to be heat exchange target. The object is cooled (step h). In a magnetic refrigeration cycle, a magnetic working material exhibiting a magnetocaloric effect increases in temperature when adiabatically magnetized (step a), exhausts heat (step b), and decreases in temperature when adiabatic demagnetization is performed. (Step c), the heat exchange object is cooled by absorbing heat (Step d). As described above, in gas refrigeration, a refrigeration cycle is formed by transferring heat using the temperature rise due to compression and the temperature drop due to expansion, whereas in magnetic refrigeration, the temperature due to magnetizing the magnetic working substance A refrigeration cycle is formed by exchanging heat by using a temperature drop caused by rising and demagnetizing.

  When comparing a magnetic refrigeration device and a gas refrigeration device, the difference is that the refrigeration cycle is controlled by pressure and volume in the gas refrigeration device, whereas the magnetic refrigeration device is controlled by a magnetic field. In the apparatus, the refrigerant is a gas such as chlorofluorocarbon, whereas in the magnetic refrigeration apparatus, a solid magnetic working substance is used instead of the refrigerant.

  Because the magnetic working material is solid, the temperature inside the magnetic working material changes uniformly and almost simultaneously. Further, the entropy density is higher than that of the gas refrigeration apparatus. For this reason, the characteristics of the magnetic refrigeration apparatus include (1) high efficiency, (2) no use of chlorofluorocarbon, and (3) no noise vibration because no compressor is used. On the other hand, (1) it is necessary to devise a heat exchange mechanism for extracting the high-density heat stored in the magnetic working material to the outside. (2) To obtain a large refrigeration capacity, the current magnetic working material is superconducting. There are disadvantages such as the need for a high magnetic field by magnets. However, in order to prevent global warming, there has been increasing expectation for the development of a new refrigeration technology that does not use CFCs.

  FIG. 14 shows a configuration example of a conventional magnetic refrigeration apparatus 130. The magnetic refrigeration apparatus 130 shown in FIG. 14 forms a refrigeration cycle by a four-stage operation. A fluid that circulates inside the refrigerator and is used for heat transfer is referred to as a heat medium.

  In the first stage, the flow of the heat medium 31 is stopped, and the magnetic working substance pairs 32 and 33 arranged above and below are raised (the moving direction is indicated by an arrow in the first stage figure) and generated by the magnetic field generating means 34. The lower magnetic working material 33 is magnetized by bringing it closer to the magnetic field, and the upper magnetic working material 32 is moved away and demagnetized. As a result, the lower magnetic working material 33 is magnetized and the temperature rises, and the upper magnetic working material 32 is demagnetized and the temperature falls.

  In the second stage, the pump 35 is operated and the flow path control valve 36 is adjusted, and the direction of flow of the heat medium 31 (indicated by the arrow in the second stage diagram) is demagnetized from the heat exhausting section 37 to the temperature. Heat is transferred between the heat medium 31 and the magnetic working materials 32 and 33 by moving the lower magnetic working material 32 to the lower magnetic working material 33 that has been magnetized from the cooling unit 38 and has risen in temperature. In addition, the heat medium 31 whose temperature has been lowered by exchanging heat with the upper magnetic working material 32 flows to the cooling unit 38 to cool the heat exchange object 39, and heat with the lower magnetic working material 33 exchanging heat has increased in temperature. The medium 31 flows to the exhaust heat unit and is exhausted.

  In the third stage, the flow of the heat medium 31 is stopped again, and the magnetic working material pairs 32 and 33 are lowered in the opposite direction to the first stage (the moving direction is indicated by an arrow in the third stage diagram), and the magnetic field generating means 34 The upper magnetic working material 32 is magnetized by bringing it closer to the magnetic field generated by, and the lower magnetic working material 33 is moved away from the magnetic field. As a result, the upper magnetic working material 32 is magnetized and its temperature rises, and the lower magnetic working material 33 is demagnetized and its temperature falls.

  In the fourth stage, the pump 35 is operated and the flow control valve 36 is adjusted, and the direction of the flow of the heat medium 31 (indicated by an arrow in the fourth stage diagram) is reversed from the second stage, The heat medium 31 and the magnetic working materials 32, 33 are changed to the lower magnetic working material 33 that has been demagnetized from the exhaust heat unit 37 and to the lower magnetic working material 32 that has been magnetized from the cooling unit 38 and has increased in temperature. Give and receive heat. In addition, the heat medium 31 whose temperature has dropped due to heat exchange with the lower magnetic working material 33 flows to the cooling unit 38 to cool the heat exchange object 39, and heat exchanged with the upper magnetic working material 32 raises the temperature. The medium 31 flows to the exhaust heat unit and is exhausted.

  The refrigeration cycle is repeated with these four steps as one cycle (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  In this example, a mechanism for moving the magnetic working material up and down to magnetize and demagnetize the magnetic working material is used, and a flow path switching valve that changes the direction of the flow of the heat medium flowing in the magnetic working material is used. Yes. In addition to this, a magnetic refrigeration apparatus using a flow path switching valve that reciprocates the magnetic field generating means to magnetize and demagnetize the magnetic working material, and further changes the flow direction of the heat medium flowing in the magnetic working material, In order to magnetize and demagnetize the work substance, there has been a magnetic refrigeration apparatus in which the magnetic field generating means is controlled to be turned on and off, and the heat medium is exchanged using a displacer that reciprocates in the magnetic work substance.

JP 2002-106999 A (paragraphs 0027 to 0060, FIGS. 1, 3 and the like)

  However, in the conventional magnetic refrigeration apparatus, a flow path switching valve that changes the flow direction of the heat medium flowing in the magnetic working material, a mechanism that moves the magnetic working material up and down to magnetize and demagnetize the magnetic working material, or Since a mechanism for reciprocating the magnetic field generation means, or a displacer for reciprocating the heat medium in the magnetic working material and on / off control of the magnetic field generation means, etc. were required, all of the conventional magnetic refrigeration apparatuses have a large configuration. In addition, there is no magnetic refrigeration apparatus that requires complicated control technology, can be easily controlled during operation, and can be easily controlled.

  The present invention eliminates the flow path switching valve, the mechanism for reciprocating the magnetic working substance, the mechanism for reciprocating the magnetic field generating means, and the on / off control of the displacer and the magnetic field generating means, thereby providing a simple and compact configuration. An object of the present invention is to provide a magnetic refrigeration apparatus that can be easily controlled during operation.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the magnetic refrigeration apparatus according to claim 1 includes, as shown in FIG. 1, for example, a magnetic field generating means 1 for generating a magnetic field and a temperature corresponding to the increase or decrease of the magnetic field. The magnetic working material 2 that changes, the rotating means 3 that carries the magnetic working material 2 and rotates the magnetic working material 2 to enter and exit the magnetic field formed by the magnetic field generating means 1, the magnetic working material 2 and the heat The heat medium 6 to be exchanged, the magnetic working material 2 and the heat medium 6 are arranged so as to exchange heat while the magnetic working material 2 is rotating, and connected to the heat medium flow channel 7. And a heat exchanger 12 (12-1, 12-2) that performs heat exchange between the heat medium 6 and the heat exchange target.

  With this configuration, the magnetic working material carried at a predetermined position is rotated and moved in and out of the magnetic field to change the temperature of the magnetic working material, and the rotational movement of the heat medium channel is also performed. By causing the heat medium to circulate, the flow path switching valve, the mechanism for reciprocating the magnetic working substance, the mechanism for reciprocating the magnetic field generating means, and the displacer, which are necessary in the conventional magnetic refrigeration apparatus, are eliminated. In addition, by eliminating the on / off control of the magnetic field generating means, it is possible to provide a low-cost magnetic refrigeration apparatus with a simple and compact configuration that is easy to control during operation.

  Further, the invention according to claim 2 is the magnetic refrigeration apparatus according to claim 1, for example, as shown in FIG. 3, the heat medium flow path 7 has a radial component with respect to the center 4 of rotation, The magnetic medium 2 is configured to rotate together with the magnetic working substance 2 and the heat medium 6 flows radially outward in the heat medium flow path 7. If comprised in this way, the flow of the heat medium 6 which flows to the radial direction outer side can be made using the centrifugal force by rotation, and the magnetic refrigeration apparatus of the simple structure which does not need a pump etc. for making a heat medium flow is produced. Can be provided.

  Further, the invention according to claim 3 is the magnetic refrigeration apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, for example, as shown in FIG. 3, the rotating means is a container 3 in which the magnetic working substance 2 and the heat medium flow path 7 are mounted. In this case, by rotating the container 3, the magnetic working substance 2 and the heat medium flow path 7 are configured to rotate. In the container 3, a plurality of magnetic working substances 2 are radially formed from the center 4 of the rotation. The plurality of heat medium flow paths 7 are respectively formed in contact with the magnetic working material 2, and the heat medium 6 passes through the heat medium flow path 7 using the centrifugal force by rotation. Flows in contact with 2. The configuration in which the heat medium flow path is formed in contact with the magnetic working material may be formed by sandwiching the magnetic working material, or may be formed by including the magnetic working material. Alternatively, the magnetic working material may be formed through the inside. If comprised in this way, a heat carrier can flow while contacting a magnetic working material, and the magnetic refrigeration apparatus which can perform efficient heat exchange between a magnetic working material and a heat medium can be provided.

  Further, the invention according to claim 4 is the magnetic refrigeration apparatus according to claim 3, in which, for example, as shown in FIG. 1, the first heat exchanger 12-1 and the second heat exchange as the heat exchanger 12. The inlet 15-1 of the first inlet 13-1 and the first inlet 13-1 are connected to the first heat exchanger 12-1 and through which the heat medium 6 flows. The first contact plate 11-1 having the outlet 16-1 of the outflow passage 14-1 is provided at a fixed position (see FIG. 4), and the inlet 15-1 and the first outflow passage of the first inflow passage 13-1. The outlet 16-1 of 14-1 is provided in the magnetic field, and any one of the heat medium channels 7-1 (hereinafter referred to as a first heat medium channel) in the magnetic field while the container 3 is rotating. The heat medium outlet 10 and the heat medium inlet 9 in FIG. 1 overlap the inlet 15-1 of the first inflow path 13-1 and the outlet 16-1 of the first outflow path 14-1, respectively. When the heat medium 6 circulates through the first heat medium flow path 7-1, the first inflow path 13-1, the first heat exchanger 12-1, and the first outflow path 14-1. 1 heat medium circulation path is formed, provided close to the container 3, and connected to the second heat exchanger 12-2 and the inlet 15-2 of the second inflow path 13-2 through which the heat medium 6 flows. The second contact plate 11-2 having the outlet 16-2 of the second outflow passage 14-2 is provided at a fixed position, and the inlet 15-2 of the second inflow passage 13-2 and the second outflow passage 14-2 are provided. The outlet 16-2 is provided outside the magnetic field, and the heat of one of the heat medium flow paths 7-2 (hereinafter referred to as the second heat medium flow path) outside the magnetic field during the rotation of the container 3. When the medium outlet 10 and the heat medium inlet 9 (see FIG. 3) overlap the inlet 15-2 of the second inlet 13-2 and the outlet 16-2 of the second outlet 14-2, respectively, the second of A second heat medium circulation path through which the heat medium 6 circulates through the medium flow path 7-2, the second inflow path 13-2, the second heat exchanger 12-2, and the second outflow path 14-2. It is formed. If comprised in this way, in the circulation path of the heat medium 6 which connects the flow path 7 for heat media and the heat exchanger 12, the circulation path which circulates the heat medium 6 by fixed quantity periodically is realizable.

  Further, the invention according to claim 5 is the magnetic refrigeration apparatus according to claim 3, for example, as shown in FIG. 6, the first heat exchanger 12-1 and the second heat exchanger as the heat exchanger 12. 12-2, and from the outer periphery of the container 3 from any one of the heat medium flow paths 7-3 (hereinafter referred to as a third heat medium flow path) in the magnetic field during the rotation of the container 3. A first tray 17-1 for collecting the overflowing heat medium 6 is provided at a fixed position, and the inlet 15-1 of the first inflow path 13-1 through which the heat medium 6 flows is connected to the first heat exchanger 12-1. And the outlet 16-1 of the first outflow path 14-1 are provided in the magnetic field, the third heat medium flow path 7-3, the first tray 17-1, the first inflow path 13-1, the first A third heat medium circulation path through which the heat medium 6 circulates through one heat exchanger 12-1 and the first outflow path 14-1 is formed, and any one outside the magnetic field during the rotation of the container 3. A second tray 17-2 for recovering the heat medium 6 overflowing from the outer periphery of the container 3 from the heat medium flow path 7-4 (hereinafter referred to as a fourth heat medium flow path). The inlet 15-2 of the second inlet 13-2 and the outlet 16-2 of the second outlet 14-2 through which the heat medium 6 flows through the second heat exchanger 12-2 are provided outside the magnetic field, The fourth heat medium flow path 7-4, the second tray 17-2, the second inflow path 13-2, the second heat exchanger 12-2, and the second outflow path 14-2 are heated. A fourth heat medium circulation path through which 6 circulates is formed. If comprised in this way, the circulation path which can be continuously circulated in the circulation path of the heat medium 6 which connects the flow path 7 for heat media and the heat exchanger 12 is realizable.

  Moreover, the invention according to claim 6 is the magnetic refrigeration apparatus according to claim 1, for example, as shown in FIG. 7, the first heat exchanger 12-1 and the second heat exchange as the heat exchanger 12. 12-2, the first heat exchanging means 26-1 and the second heat exchanging means 26-2 as the heat medium flow path, and the first heat exchanging means 26-1 is the container 3 The heat medium outlet 10 of the first heat exchanging means 26-1 is arranged at a fixed position in the magnetic field around the inlet 15 of the first inflow path 13-1 of the first heat exchanger 12-1. -1 and the heat medium inlet 9 of the first heat exchange means 26-1 is connected to the outlet 16-2 of the second outflow passage 14-2 of the second heat exchanger 12-2, and the second The heat exchange means 26-2 is disposed at a fixed position outside the magnetic field around the container 3, and the heat medium outlet 10 of the second heat exchange means 26-2 is connected to the second heat exchanger 1. -2 is connected to the inlet 15-2 of the second inflow path 13-2, and the heat medium inlet 9 of the second heat exchange means 26-2 is the first outflow path of the first heat exchanger 12-1. The first heat exchange means 26-1, the first heat exchanger 12-1, the second heat exchange means 26-2 and the second heat exchanger 12- are connected to the outlet 16-1 of 14-1. 5, a fifth heat medium circulation path through which the heat medium 6 circulates is formed. If comprised in this way, in the circulation path of the heat medium 6 which connects the flow path for heat medium and the heat exchanger 12, the circulation path which can circulate efficiently and continuously using the pump 19 is realizable.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 1, for example, the magnetic refrigeration apparatus according to claim 7 includes a magnetic field generating means 1 that generates a magnetic field, a magnetic working material 2 that changes in temperature according to an increase or decrease of the magnetic field, and a magnetic working material. Magnetic field increasing / decreasing means for increasing / decreasing the magnetic field applied to 2, a heat medium 6 for exchanging heat with the magnetic working material 2, and a heat medium provided for exchanging heat between the magnetic working material 2 and the heat medium 6 And a heat exchanger 12 (12-1, 12-2) that is connected to the heat medium flow path 7 and exchanges heat between the heat medium 6 and the heat exchange target. The flow direction of the heat medium 6 in the flow path 7 is one direction. Here, the direction of flow is unidirectional means that there is no flow in the reverse direction, and includes a case where it flows intermittently in one direction. With this configuration, since the flow direction of the heat medium 6 is unidirectional, a flow path switching valve and a flow path switching switch are not required, and the control during operation is easy and low cost with a simple and compact configuration. Can be provided.

  Further, the invention according to claim 8 is the magnetic refrigeration apparatus according to claim 7, in which, for example, as shown in FIG. This is a mechanism for moving in and out of the magnetic field formed by the magnetic field generating means 1 by rotating. If comprised in this way, by making the rotation means 3 of the magnetic working material 2 function as a mechanism for moving the magnetic working material 2 in and out of the magnetic field, adiabatic magnetization and adiabatic demagnetization can be achieved, and the magnetic refrigeration apparatus can be reduced in size and weight.

  Further, the invention according to claim 9 is the magnetic refrigeration apparatus according to claim 8, wherein, for example, as shown in FIG. 3, the heat medium flow path 7 has a radial component with respect to the center 4 of rotation, Rotates with magnetic working material 2 If comprised in this way, the flow of the heat medium 6 which flows to radial direction outer side can be formed using rotation, and the magnetic refrigeration apparatus of the simple structure which does not require the pump etc. for making a heat medium flow can be provided.

  Further, the invention according to claim 10 is the magnetic refrigeration apparatus according to claim 9, in which, for example, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the magnetic working substance 2 and the heat medium flow path 7 are centered on their centers. A plurality of heat medium flow paths 7 are respectively formed radially from the center of the container 3 so that the heat medium 6 flows while contacting the magnetic working material 2. Are provided with a heat medium outlet 10 and a heat medium inlet 9 as openings at a distance from each other in the radial direction, and an inflow path inlet 15 (15-1, 15) as a connection portion with the heat medium flow path 7 of the heat exchanger 12. 15-2) and the outflow passage outlet 16 (16-1, 16-2) are provided at positions that slide with the container 3 and coincide with the opening due to the rotation of the container 3. If comprised in this way, in the circulation path of the heat medium 6 which connects the flow path 7 for heat media and the heat exchanger 12, the circulation path which circulates the heat medium 6 by fixed quantity periodically is realizable.

  According to the present invention, by rotating and moving the magnetic working material in and out of the magnetic field, the flow path switching valve, the mechanism for reciprocating the magnetic working material, the magnetic field generation, which is necessary in the conventional magnetic refrigeration apparatus A mechanism for reciprocating the means and a displacer is not required, and the on / off control of the magnetic field generating means is eliminated, so that a low-cost magnetic refrigeration apparatus can be easily controlled during operation with a simple and compact configuration. Can be provided.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 shows a configuration example of a magnetic refrigeration apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1A is an overall view, and FIG. 1B is a partially enlarged view of a heat medium flow path. In the figure, reference numeral 1 denotes a magnetic field generating means for generating a magnetic field. For example, a magnet that generates a strong magnetic field such as a permanent magnet, an electromagnet, or a superconducting magnet is used and fixed at a fixed position. Reference numeral 2 denotes a magnetic working substance (see (b)), and the temperature changes according to the increase or decrease of the magnetic field. That is, the magnetic working material exhibits a magnetocaloric effect, with the temperature increasing when magnetized and the temperature decreasing when demagnetized. Reference numeral 3 denotes a magnetic working material drum (hereinafter referred to as a drum) as a container for mounting the magnetic working material. In this case, the drum 3 functions as a rotating means that carries the magnetic working substance 2 and rotates the magnetic working substance 2 to enter and exit the magnetic field formed by the magnetic field generating means 1. For example, a gadolinium-based magnetic material is used as the magnetic working substance 2. The drum 3 is made of, for example, a nonmagnetic material such as metal or plastic that is nonmagnetic and has low thermal conductivity. The shape of the container is not limited to a cylindrical shape, and may be a disk shape, for example. FIG. 1B shows a state in which the heat medium 6 flows in the direction of the arrow (in the radial direction of the drum 3) in contact with the magnetic working material 2 in the heat medium flow path 7.

  FIG. 2 shows an arrangement example of the magnetic working substance 2 in the drum 3. 2 (a1) and 2 (a2) show the arrangement viewed from the upper surface side of the drum 3 when the support member 5 is used, and the AA cross section. FIGS. 2 (b1) and 2 (b2) show the support member 5. The arrangement | positioning seen from the upper surface side of the drum 3 when not using is shown, and the BB cross section. The drum 3 is driven by a not-shown prime mover or the like, and is formed to be rotatable around a rotation shaft 4 positioned at the center of the drum 3. Inside the drum 3, a plurality of plate-like magnetic working materials 2 are radially arranged from the center of the drum 3 in the radial direction. As shown in FIGS. 2 (b1) and 2 (b2), the magnetic working substance 2 may be disposed in contact with the rotary shaft 4, and as shown in FIGS. 2 (a1) and (a2), the rotary shaft 4 A support member 5 that supports the magnetic working material 2 may be interposed between the magnetic working material 2 and the magnetic working material 2. The magnetic working material 2 is fixed to the drum 3 and rotates together with the drum 3. The plurality of magnetic working materials 2 are preferably thermally insulated from each other. However, as shown in FIGS. 2B1 and 2B2, adjacent magnetic working materials 2 are attached to the shaft. However, by providing the rotating shaft 4 with a thickness that does not allow contact, heat loss due to heat conduction between the adjacent magnetic working materials 2 can be prevented. Further, as the prime mover, for example, a three-phase induction motor, a DC brushless motor, or the like can be used.

Here, returning to FIG. 1, the description of the magnetic refrigeration apparatus 100 will be continued. The magnetic pole of the magnetic field generator 1 is fixed at a fixed position so as to sandwich the front half of the drum 3, and the magnetic field generated by the magnetic field generator 1 is applied to the front half of the drum 3. That is, the front half of the drum 3 is in the magnetic field, and the rear half is outside the magnetic field. For example, when the drum 3 rotates in the direction of the arrow (counterclockwise), the magnetic working materials 2a, 2b,..., 2n (see FIG. 2) outside the magnetic field sequentially enter the magnetic field. Come out. The magnetic working materials 2a, 2b,..., 2n are adiabatically magnetized when they enter the magnetic field and rise in temperature, and when they go out of the magnetic field, they are adiabatically demagnetized and drop in temperature. By continuing the rotation, the magnetic working materials 2a, 2b,..., 2n periodically enter and exit the magnetic field generated by the magnetic field generating means 1, and repeat the temperature rise and temperature drop.
Thus, the magnetic field increasing / decreasing means for increasing / decreasing the magnetic field applied to the magnetic working material 2 is a mechanism for rotating the magnetic working material 2 into and out of the magnetic field formed by the magnetic field generating means 1, and is a rotating means. It comprises a drum 3 and a prime mover (not shown) that drives the drum 3.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram conceptually showing the configuration in the drum 3. The plate-like magnetic working substance 2 is fixed to the drum 3 and can rotate around the rotation shaft 4. A heat medium flow path 7 through which the heat medium 6 flows in contact with the magnetic working substance 2 is formed, and when the drum 3 rotates, the heat medium 6 flows from the center of the drum 3 toward the outer periphery by centrifugal force. 7, the magnetic working material 2 flows on both sides of the magnetic working material 2 in contact with the magnetic working material 2, and the magnetic working material 2 and the heat medium 6 exchange heat. That is, the phenomenon that the static pressure of the heat medium on the outer peripheral side of the drum 3 is higher than that of the center side due to the centrifugal action is used as means for transferring the heat medium 6. Here, the heat medium flow path 7 has a radial component with respect to the center 4 of rotation, and rotates with the magnetic working material 2, and the heat medium 6 flows in the heat medium flow path 7 radially outward. It is configured as follows. The heat medium 6 is preferably a medium having a large heat transfer coefficient. A liquid such as water or alcohol is preferable, but it may be a gas having such a density that centrifugal force can be used.

  FIG. 3 shows an example in which four plate-like magnetic working substances 2 are arranged on the central axis in the drum 3. Four heating medium channels 7 in contact with the magnetic working substance 2 (one magnetic working substance 2 may be sandwiched between two heating medium channels 7, but in this embodiment, for convenience, One heat medium flow path 7 corresponding to one magnetic working material 2 is collectively counted as one, and for the sake of simplicity in FIG. Are formed together with the heat medium 6) and are formed on the upper and lower surfaces 8 of the drum 3 at positions corresponding to both ends in the radial direction of the respective heat medium flow paths 7, that is, the end on the center side and the end on the outer peripheral side. A heat medium inlet 9 and a heat medium outlet 10 are provided as openings. These heat medium inlet 9 and heat medium outlet 10 also rotate around the rotating shaft 4 together with the magnetic drum 3. The configuration in which the heat medium flow path 7 is formed in contact with the magnetic working material 2 may be formed such that the heat medium flow path 7 sandwiches the magnetic working material 2 and includes the magnetic working material 2. Alternatively, it may be formed through the inside of the magnetic working substance 2. When the heat medium 6 flows while contacting the magnetic working material 2, efficient heat exchange can be performed between the magnetic working material 2 and the heat medium 6. Further, the shape of the magnetic working substance 2 is not limited to a plate-like rectangle, and if it is solid, the magnetic working substance 2 may be a fan shape that is thin on the center side and thick on the outer periphery side, so that the heat medium flows through the pores. Anyway.

  FIG. 4 shows an arrangement example of the heat exchanger 12 on the drum 3. In the drum 3, each heat medium flow path 7 shown in FIG. 3 is provided. A contact plate 11 (11-1, 11-2) is provided at a fixed position in proximity to the upper and lower surfaces 8 of the drum 3, and the heat medium flow path 7 of the heat exchanger 12-1 is provided on the contact plate 11-1. As the connection part, the inlet 15-1 of the inflow path 13-1 and the outlet 16-1 of the outflow path 14-1 of the heat medium 6 connected to the heat exchanger 12-1 are formed. Moreover, the inlet 15-2 of the inflow path 13-2 of the heat medium 6 connected to the heat exchanger 12-2 is connected to the contact plate 11-2 as a connection portion to the heat medium flow path 7 of the heat exchanger 12-2. And an outlet 16-2 of the outflow passage 14-2 is formed (not shown in FIG. 4). The material of the contact plate 11 is preferably non-magnetic and low in thermal conductivity, and may be non-magnetic metal, non-magnetic plastic, or the like. Here, the proximity means that the drum 3 rotates smoothly near the base plate 11 to which the drum 3 is fixed, and the heat medium 6 does not leak outside through the gap between the drum 3 and the base plate 11, or a plurality of heat media. It means the distance at which the upper and lower surfaces 8 of the drum, the heat medium inlet 9, the heat medium outlet 10, or the contact plate 11 can be configured so that the heat medium 6 does not move between the flow paths 7. Further, a structure for preventing leakage of the heat medium 6 by sliding it around the heat medium inlet 9 and the heat medium outlet 10 between the backing plate 11 and the upper and lower surfaces 8 of the drum using an elastic material such as rubber, for example. May be configured.

  The contact plate 11 is fixed at a fixed position, and therefore the inlet 15 (15-1, 15-2) of the inflow passage and the outlet 16 (16-1, 16-2) of the outflow passage are at the fixed positions. On the other hand, when the heat medium flow path 7 moves in the circumferential direction as the drum 3 rotates, the heat medium inlet 9 and the heat medium outlet 10 also move in the circumferential direction at the same time. Then, the position of the heat medium inlet 9 and the outlet 16 of the outflow passage and the opening size of the opening match, and the position of the heat medium outlet 10 and the inlet 15 of the inflow passage and the opening size of the opening match, During rotation, when the positions of the heat medium inlet 9 and the outlet 16 of the outflow passage coincide with each other, at the same time, the positions of the heat medium outlet 10 and the inlet 15 of the inflow passage coincide with each other. 15 and the outlet 16 of the outflow channel are formed. It should be noted that the opening dimensions of the inlet and outlet openings do not have to match completely. For example, the outlet 16 of the outflow passage and the inlet 15 of the inflow passage are more circumferential than the heat medium inlet 9 and the heat medium outlet 10, respectively. The direction dimension may be long, and if the position of the opening matches between the heat medium inlet 9 and the outlet 16 of the outflow path and between the heat medium outlet 10 and the inlet 15 of the inflow path, a flow path through which the heat medium 6 flows can be formed. good.

  During the rotation of the drum 3, the positions of the heat medium inlet 9 and the outlet 16 (16-1, 16-2) of the outflow passage match, and the heat medium outlet 10 and the inlet 15 of the inflow passage (15-1, 15). -2) when the positions match, the heat medium flow path 7-the heat medium outlet 10-the inlet 15 of the inflow path-the inflow path 13 (13-1, 13-2)-the heat exchanger 12 (12-1) 12-2) -outlet passage 14 (14-1, 14-2) -outlet passage outlet 16-heat medium inlet 9-heat medium flow passage 7 is formed as a heat medium 6 circulation path. 6 circulates in the circulation path in the above order by the action of centrifugal force by rotation.

  As shown in FIG. 3, if there are four heat medium flow paths 7, four circulation paths are formed during one rotation, and if there are N heat medium flow paths 7, N circulation circuits are formed during one rotation. Will be formed.

  Here, referring to FIG. 1 again. The magnetic field generating means 1 is provided with a drum 3 on which the magnetic working material 2 is mounted, and a magnetic field is applied to the front half of the drum 3. That is, almost the front half of the drum 3 enters the magnetic field, and the magnetic working material 2 is magnetized. This region is referred to as the magnetization side M1. In addition, almost half of the drum 3 is out of the magnetic field, and the magnetic working material 2 is demagnetized. This region is referred to as the demagnetizing side M2.

  The magnetic refrigeration apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment includes an exhaust heat side heat exchanger as the first heat exchanger 12-1, a cooling side heat exchanger as the second heat exchanger 12-2, and two heat exchanges. A container 12 is provided. As these heat exchangers, for example, fin tube type, shell tube type, and plate type heat exchangers can be used.

  The exhaust heat side heat exchanger 12-1 is connected to the 1st contact plate 11-1 via the 1st inflow path 13-1 and the 1st outflow path 14-1. The inlet 15-1 of the first inlet channel and the outlet 16-1 of the first outlet channel are in the magnetic field, that is, on the magnetization side M1.

  During the rotation of the drum 3, when the position of the heat medium inlet 9 and the outlet 16-1 of the first outflow path match, and the positions of the heat medium outlet 10 and the inlet 15-1 of the first inflow path also match , Heat medium flow path 7-first inflow path inlet 15-1-first inflow path 13-1-exhaust heat side heat exchanger (first heat exchanger) 12-1-first outflow The exhaust heat circulation path is formed as a first heat medium circulation path including the path 14-1—the outlet 16-1 of the first outflow path—the heat medium flow path 7. At this time, the heat medium flow path 7 and the magnetic working material 2 are in a magnetic field, the temperature of the magnetic working material 2 is increased, and the temperature of the heat medium 6 is increased by the magnetic working material 2 in the heat medium flow path 7, and this temperature is increased. The heat medium 6 is guided to the exhaust heat side heat exchanger 12-1 to warm the first heat exchange target. The first heat exchange target may be another heat medium, for example, air, and may be substantially exhausted into the air.

  On the other hand, the cooling side heat exchanger 12-2 is connected to the second contact plate 11-2 via the second inflow path 13-2 and the second outflow path 14-2. The inlet 15-2 of the second inlet channel and the outlet 16-2 of the second outlet channel are outside the magnetic field, that is, on the demagnetization side M2.

  During the rotation of the drum 3, when the position of the heat medium inlet 9 and the outlet 16-2 of the second outflow path match, and the positions of the heat medium outlet 10 and the inlet 15-2 of the second inflow path also match , Heat medium flow path 7-second inflow path inlet 15-2-second inflow path 13-2-cooling side heat exchanger (second heat exchanger) 12-2-second outflow path 14-2-Second Outlet Channel Outlet 16-2- A cooling circuit as a second heat medium circuit formed of the heat medium circuit 7 is formed. At this time, the heat medium channel 7 and Since the magnetic working material 2 is outside the magnetic field, the temperature of the magnetic working material 2 is lowered, and the heat medium 6 is lowered in temperature by the magnetic working material 2 in the heat medium flow path 7, and the heat medium in which the temperature has dropped. 6 is led to the cooling side heat exchanger 12-2 to cool the second heat exchange object. The second heat exchange target may be, for example, another heat medium or a cooling target such as food.

  In FIG. 1, the contact plate 11-1 and the contact plate 11-2 are provided close to the opposite side surface of the drum 3 (see FIG. 4), and the first heat exchanger 12-1 of the exhaust heat side heat exchanger 12-1. The inlet 15-1 of the inlet and the outlet 16-1 of the first outlet are the second inlet 15-2 of the cooling side heat exchanger 12-2, the outlet 16-2 of the second outlet, It is provided at a target position with respect to the rotating shaft 4. Accordingly, with respect to one heat medium passage 7, after the exhaust heat circulation path is formed, a cooling circulation path is formed when the drum 3 is rotated 180 degrees, and an exhaust heat circulation path is formed when the drum 3 is further rotated 180 degrees. Thus, every time it rotates 180 degrees, the exhaust heat circulation path and the cooling circulation path are alternately formed.

  On the other hand, when the exhaust heat circulation path is formed for one heat medium passage 7-1, the other heat medium provided at the target position with respect to the rotation shaft 4 with respect to the heat medium passage 7-1. A cooling circuit is formed for the passage 7-2. Therefore, the heat exchange for heating the first heat exchange object in the exhaust heat side heat exchanger 12-1 and the second in the cooling side heat exchanger 12-2. The heat exchange for cooling the heat exchange object is simultaneously performed.

  When there are N heat medium passages 7, the exhaust heat circulation path and the cooling circulation path are formed N times during one rotation of the drum 3, and the exhaust heat side heat exchanger 12-1 and the cooling side are formed. The heat medium 6 whose temperature has been newly increased N times and the heat medium 6 whose temperature has been decreased are sent to the heat exchanger 12-2.

  FIG. 5 shows a configuration example in the drum 3. (A) is the figure seen from the exhaust heat side (the side with the 1st contact plate 11-1 to which the exhaust heat exchanger 12-1 is connected), (b) is sectional drawing which passes along a central axis, (c) ) Shows a view seen from the cooling side (the side with the second caul plate 11-2 to which the cooling exchanger 12-2 is connected). 5A and 5C, four heat medium flow paths 7a to 7d are provided. When viewed from the exhaust heat side, the drum 3 rotates counterclockwise as indicated by an arrow around the rotation shaft 4. When viewed from the cooling side, the drum 3 rotates clockwise as indicated by an arrow. The heat medium flow paths 7a and 7b are on the demagnetization side M2, but sequentially enter the magnetization side M1, and then sequentially enter the demagnetization side M2, and this is repeated. The heat medium flow paths 7c and 7d are on the magnetization side M1, but sequentially enter the demagnetization side M2, and then enter the magnetization side M1 sequentially, and this is repeated.

In FIG. 5A, in each heat medium flow path 7-1 (7c, 7d) in a magnetic field, a heat medium inlet 9 is provided between the rotating shaft 4 and the broken line shown on the inner side in the radial direction of the drum 3. The heat medium outlet 10 is provided between the inner wall of the cylindrical portion of the drum 3 and the broken line shown on the outer side in the radial direction of the drum 3. Then, the first heat sink side first contact plate 11-1 has, for example, a position where the heat medium flow path 7-1 (7 c) is located at a position matching the heat medium outlet 10 at the inlet of the first inflow path. 15-1 is provided, and the outlet 16-1 of the first outflow passage is provided at a position matching the heat medium inlet 9 (see FIG. 4), and the heat medium flow path 7-1 (7c) -second 1 inflow path inlet 15-1-first inflow path 13-1-exhaust heat side heat exchanger (first heat exchanger) 12-1-first outflow path 14-1-first outflow A waste heat circulation path is formed as a first heat medium circulation path including a path outlet 16-1-heat medium flow path 7-1 (7 c), and the heat medium 6 circulates. At this time, the heat medium 6 flows in the heat medium flow path 7-1 (7c) as indicated by the arrow in the lower half of FIG.
With the rotation of the drum 3, the heat medium flow path 7-1 constituting the first heat medium circulation path is sequentially replaced. In the figure, they are cyclically changed as 7c → 7d → 7a → 7b → 7c.

Also in FIG. 5C, in each heat medium flow path 7-2 (7a, 7b) outside the magnetic field, a heat medium inlet 9 is provided between the rotating shaft 4 and the broken line shown inside the radius of the drum 3. A heat medium outlet 10 is provided between the inner wall of the cylindrical portion of the drum 3 and the broken line shown outside the radius of the drum 3. Then, in the second contact plate 11-2 on the cooling side, for example, at the position where the flow path 7-2 (7a) for the heat medium is present, the inlet 15 of the second inflow path is located at a position matching the heat medium outlet 10. -2 is provided, and the outlet 16-2 of the second outflow path is provided at a position matching the inlet of the heat medium 9, and the heat medium flow path 7-2 (7a)-the inlet of the second inflow path 15-2-second inflow path 13-2-cooling side heat exchanger (second heat exchanger) 12-2-second outflow path 14-2-second outflow path outlet 16-2- A cooling circulation path as a second heat medium circulation path composed of the heat medium flow path 7-2 (7a) is formed, and the heat medium 6 circulates. At this time, due to the action of the centrifugal force, the heat medium 6 flows in the heat medium flow path 7-2 as indicated by the arrow in the upper half of FIG.
Along with the rotation of the drum 3, the heat medium flow path 7-2 constituting the second heat medium circulation path is sequentially switched. In the figure, they are cyclically changed as 7a → 7b → 7c → 7d → 7a.

  The outer peripheral portion (cylindrical portion) of the drum 3 is integrally formed with a nonmagnetic metal or the like without a gap. Except for the heat medium inlet 9 and the heat medium outlet 10 of the heat medium flow paths 7a to 7d on the upper and lower surfaces. The entire surface of the contact plate 11-1 or 11-2 is sealed using an elastic material such as rubber. Alternatively, the upper and lower surfaces of the drum 3 are integrally formed of a nonmagnetic metal or the like except for the heat medium inlet 9 and the heat medium outlet 10 of each of the heat medium channels 7a to 7d, and further the heat medium inlet 9 and the heat medium outlet. An elastic member such as rubber is attached and sealed only to the peripheral portion of 10 and formed so that the heat medium 6 does not leak in any of these cases.

  Thus, the magnetic refrigeration apparatus 100 in the present embodiment mainly includes the magnetic field generating means 1, the magnetic working material 2, the drum 3, the prime mover (not shown), the heat medium 6, the heat medium flow path 7, and the heat exchanger. 12. The magnetic field generating means 1, the prime mover, and the two heat exchangers 12, that is, the exhaust heat side heat exchanger 12-1 and the cooling side heat exchanger 12-2 are fixed at fixed positions. The magnetic field increasing / decreasing means for increasing / decreasing the magnetic field applied to the magnetic working material 2 is configured to increase / decrease the magnetic field by rotating the drum 3 using a prime mover.

  The magnetic working material 2, the heat medium flow path 7, and the heat medium 6 flowing through the heat medium flow path 7 rotate together with the drum 3, and the temperature thereof changes in the heat medium flow path 7 by entering and exiting the magnetic field by rotation. Heat exchange between the magnetic working substance 2 and the heat medium 6 is performed, and the heat medium flow path 7 has a function as a heat exchange means. A heat medium inlet 9 (center side) and a heat medium outlet 10 (outer peripheral side) of the heat medium flow path 7 are outlet 16 of the outflow passage opened in the contact plate 11 provided at a fixed position on the side surface of the drum 3; When matched with the inlet 15 of the inflow path, two heat medium circulation paths, namely, a heat medium circulation path for exhaust heat and a heat medium circulation path for cooling are formed, and the heat exhaust side heat exchanger 12-1 and the cooling side The heat exchanger 12-2 exchanges heat with another heat medium.

  A plurality of magnetic working materials 2 are arranged radially from the center of rotation in the drum 3, the heat medium flow path 7 is formed in contact with both sides of the magnetic working material 2, and the heat medium 6 is a centrifugal force due to rotational motion. When the heat medium circulation path is formed using the above, the heat medium flows in the heat medium flow path 7 from the rotation center to the outer peripheral side while being in contact with the magnetic working material 2. Here, the heat medium flow path 7 is not limited to a linear shape, and a portion having a radially outward component with respect to the center 4 of rotation may be formed continuously from the center of rotation to the outer peripheral side, or intermittently formed. (That is, there may be a portion in which the direction of the flow path is directed only in the circumferential direction in the middle of the flow path from the rotation center side to the outer periphery side). Further, the shape of the portion in which the direction of the flow path has a radially outward component may be, for example, a spiral shape or a parabolic shape. If comprised in this way, even if it does not use transfer means, such as a pump, the inside of the flow path 7 for heat media can be made to flow to the radial direction outer side using the centrifugal force.

  Next, the state of each part during operation of the magnetic refrigeration apparatus 100 in the present embodiment will be described.

  The heat medium 6 in the heat medium flow path 7 is rotated around the rotation shaft 4 when the drum 3 is rotated by a motor or the like (not shown). First, looking at the exhaust heat side, the positions of the openings (the heat medium inlet 9 and the heat medium outlet 10 of each heat medium flow path 7) are the inlets 15- of the first inflow path of the first contact plate 11-1. When the heat medium 6 coincides with the outlet 16-1 of the first or first outflow passage, the heat medium 6 is centrifugally moved by the drum 3 rotating around the rotating shaft 4, so that the heat medium flow path 7 has a radially outer peripheral side. The heat medium 6 flows out from the heat medium outlet 10 to the exhaust heat side heat exchanger (first heat exchanger) 12-1, and the heat medium 6 from the exhaust heat side heat exchanger 12-1 is the heat medium in the drum 3. It flows into the working flow path 7 from the heat medium inlet 10 on the center side in the radial direction. At this time, the heat medium 6 in the heat medium flow path 7 and the exhaust heat side heat are changed according to the dimensions of the heat medium flow path 7 provided so as to be in contact with the magnetic working substance 2 and the rotational speed of the drum 3. The opening portion of the first contact plate 11-1 so that the heat medium 6 in the exchanger 12-1, the first inflow passage 13-1, and the first outflow passage 14-1 is just replaced. It is desirable to adjust the size and shape of the.

  In addition, since the upper and lower surfaces of the drum 3 other than the opening are sealed, the position of the opening is the inlet 15-1 of the first inflow passage of the first abutting plate 11-1 or the first outflow. Since the opening of the heat medium flow path 7 that does not match the path outlet 16-1 is blocked by the first contact plate 11-1, the heat in the heat medium flow path 7 at these positions is blocked. The medium 6 moves to the demagnetization side M <b> 2 by the rotational movement of the drum 3 together with the magnetic working material 2.

  The heat medium 6 moved to the demagnetization side M2 transfers heat with the magnetic working material 2 demagnetized on the demagnetization side M2 and drops in temperature, and the temperature drops. After that, the positions of the openings (the heat medium inlet 9 and the heat medium outlet 10 of each heat medium channel 7) are the inlet 15-2 or the second outflow of the second inflow path of the second contact plate 11-2. When matched with the outlet 16-2 of the passage, the heat medium 6 is cooled by the centrifugal action of the drum 3 from the heat medium outlet 10 on the radially outer peripheral side of the heat medium flow path 7 (second heat exchange). The heat medium 6 flows out from the cooling side heat exchanger 12-2 into the heat medium flow path 7 in the drum 3 from the heat medium inlet 9 on the center side in the radial direction. As with the exhaust heat side, the size and shape of the opening portion of the cooling-side second contact plate 11-2 depend on the size of the heat medium flow path 7, the rotational speed of the drum 3, etc. The heat medium 6 in the flow path 7 and the heat medium 6 in the cooling side heat exchanger 12-2, the second inflow path 13-2, and the second outflow path 14-2 are just interchanged. It is desirable to adjust.

  Since both the upper and lower surfaces of the drum 3 other than the opening are sealed, the position of the opening is the inlet 15-2 of the second inflow passage of the second contact plate 11-2 or the outlet of the second outflow passage. Since the opening of the heat medium flow path 7 that does not match 16-2 is blocked by the second contact plate 11-2, the heat medium 6 in the heat medium flow path 7 at these positions is The magnetic working material 2 moves to the magnetization side M1 by the rotational movement of the drum 3.

  Then, the heat medium 6 moved to the magnetization side M1 transfers heat with the magnetic working material 2 that has been magnetized on the magnetization side M1 and has increased in temperature, and the temperature increases. Thereafter, the positions of the openings (the heat medium inlet 9 and the heat medium outlet 10 of each heat medium flow path 7) are the inlet 15-1 or the first outflow of the first inflow passage of the first contact plate 11-1. When matched with the outlet 16-1 of the passage, the heat medium 6 is subjected to the centrifugal action of the drum 3, and the exhaust heat side heat exchanger (first heat source) from the heat medium outlet 10 on the radially outer peripheral side of the heat medium flow path 7. The heat medium 6 flows out into the heat medium flow path 7 in the drum 3 from the heat medium inlet 9 on the center side in the radial direction from the exhaust heat side heat exchanger 12-1. To do.

  In this way, the heat medium 6 in the heat medium flow path 7 of the drum 3 passes through the heat medium circulation path for exhaust heat as the first heat medium circuit formed as the drum 3 rotates, The heat medium 6 in the exhaust heat side heat exchanger 12-1, the first inflow path 13-1, and the first outflow path 14-1 is replaced. Further, the heat medium 6 in the heat medium flow path 7 of the drum 3 and the cooling side heat are passed through the cooling heat medium circulation path as the second heat medium circulation path formed along with the rotation of the drum 3. The heat exchanger 6 in the exchanger 12-2, the second inflow path 13-2, and the outflow path 14-2 is switched.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, during the rotation of the drum 3, the positions of the heat medium inlet 9 and the heat medium outlet 10 of the heat medium flow path 7 are respectively set to the inflow path outlet 16 and the outflow path inlet of the heat exchanger 12. The heat medium 6 is intermittently transferred only for a certain time when the heat medium flow path 7 and the heat exchanger 12 communicate with each other.

  Since the magnetic refrigeration apparatus in the present embodiment uses a centrifugal force based on the rotation of the drum 3 for transferring the heat medium 6, compared with the conventional magnetic refrigeration apparatus, the flow path switching valve and the magnetic work substance are A mechanism for reciprocating, a mechanism for reciprocating the magnetic field generating means, a means for changing the flow direction of the heat medium flowing in the magnetic working material such as a displacer, and a heat medium transferring means such as a pump are not used. Further, no on / off control means for the magnetic field generating means is required. Further, only the drum 3 is driven during the operation of the magnetic refrigeration apparatus, so that the structure can be simplified, the drum 3 is rotating in one direction in a steady state, and the flow direction of the heat medium is one direction. It is. Note that the direction of flow is unidirectional means that there is no flow in the reverse direction, and includes a case where the flow direction is intermittently unidirectional. Therefore, no complicated control is required. For this reason, it becomes possible to simplify the whole magnetic refrigeration apparatus, reduce the cost, and simplify the operation during operation. That is, a simple and compact configuration, easy control during operation, and a low-cost magnetic refrigeration apparatus can be provided.

  FIG. 6 shows a configuration example of the magnetic refrigeration apparatus 110 according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 6, parts having the same functions as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted. The magnetic field generating means 1, the magnetic working material 2, the prime mover, etc. (not shown), the heat medium 6, and the heat exchanger 12 are the same as those in the first embodiment. FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view showing the outline of the device configuration, and FIG. 6B is a view showing the arrangement of the heat medium flow path 7 (7-3, 7-4) as seen from above.

  As shown in FIG. 6A, the drum 3, the heat medium inlet 9 and the heat medium outlet 10 of the heat medium flow path 7 are different from those of the first embodiment. There is no backing plate 11, the heat medium inlet 9 and the heat medium outlet 10 are provided on the upper surface 8 of the drum 3 (not provided on the lower surface), and the heat medium 6 overflows from the heat medium outlet 10 below the drum 3. A receiving pan 17 (17-1, 17-2) is provided. The tray 17 is fixedly provided at a fixed position. The upper side on the outer peripheral side of the drum 3 is opened, and the heat medium 6 flows in the heat medium flow path 7 from the center side to the outer peripheral side by the action of the centrifugal force due to the rotational movement of the drum 3, and the heat medium 6 flows from the outer peripheral side. It is configured to overflow.

  As shown in FIG. 6B, on the rotation center side, for example, the adjacent heat medium flow paths 7 are partitioned, and the heat medium flow paths 7 are arranged so that there is no gap between the adjacent heat medium flow paths 7. The heat medium 6 arranged and returned through the heat exchanger 12 on each of the magnetization side M1 and the demagnetization side M2 is configured to be poured into the plurality of heat medium flow paths 7. In the heat medium flow path 7, a portion where the returned heat medium 6 is poured into the heat medium flow path 7 corresponds to the heat medium inlet 9, and a portion where the heat medium 6 overflows from the outer peripheral side corresponds to the heat medium outlet 10. .

  In the third heat medium flow path 7-3 on the magnetization side M1, the heat transfer medium 6 that has been heated to transfer heat to the magnetic working material 2 that has been magnetized to increase the temperature is heated on the magnetization side M1 of the drum 3. It overflows from the heat medium outlet 10 and is stored in the first tray 17-1 at a fixed position on the magnetization side M1. In addition, in the fourth heat medium flow path 7-4 on the demagnetization side M2, the heat medium 6 that has been demagnetized to transfer the heat to the magnetic working material 2 that has fallen in temperature and the temperature has dropped is the heat of the demagnetization side M2. It overflows from the medium outlet 10 and is stored in the second tray 17-2 at a fixed position on the demagnetizing side M2. The heat medium 6 accommodated in the first tray 17-1 is sent from the first inflow path 13-1 to the exhaust heat side heat exchanger (first heat exchanger) 12-1, and the first heat is received. The object to be exchanged is warmed and returned to the third heat medium flow path 7-3 on the magnetization side M1 from the first outflow path 14-1 through the heat medium inlet 9. Moreover, the heat medium 6 accommodated in the cooling side tray 17-2 is sent to the cooling side heat exchanger (second heat exchanger) 12-2 from the second inflow path 13-2, and the second heat The object to be exchanged is cooled and returned from the second outflow path 14-2 to the fourth heat medium flow path 7-4 on the demagnetization side M2 through the heat medium inlet 9. In FIG. 6, 15-1 and 15-2 denote the trays 17-1 and 17-2 as the inlets of the first inlet and the second inlet in the magnetization side M <b> 1 and the demagnetization side M <b> 2, respectively. Drains 16-1 and 16-2 are outlets of the heat medium 6 serving as outlets of the first and second outflow paths on the magnetization side M1 and the demagnetization side M2, respectively. In the outer periphery of the drum 3, the heat medium 6 is closed on the drum 3 so that the heat medium 6 does not overflow from the heat medium outlet 10 in the gap between the first tray 17-1 and the second tray 17-2. The cover 18 is fixed.

  Further, the plurality of flow paths on the magnetization side M1 correspond to the third heat medium flow path 7-3, and the heat medium 6 overflowing from the heat medium outlet 10 of the plurality of flow paths 7-3 is the first heat medium flow path 7-3. The plurality of flow paths 7-3 from the outlet 16-1 of the first outflow path on the magnetization side M1 after being accommodated in one tray 17-1 and passing through the exhaust heat side heat exchanger 12-1. Through the heat medium inlet 9. Further, the plurality of flow paths on the demagnetization side M2 correspond to the fourth heat medium flow path 7-4, and the heat medium 6 overflowing from the heat medium outlet 10 of the plurality of flow paths 7-4 is the first. 2 through the cooling side heat exchanger 12-2, and then from the outlet 16-2 of the second outflow path on the demagnetization side M2 to the plurality of flow paths 7-4. It is poured through the heat medium inlet 9.

  Accordingly, the third heat medium flow path 7-3-the heat medium outlet 10-the first tray 17-1-first inlet path 15-1-first inlet path 13-1-first. Heat exchanger 12-1-first outflow path 14-1-first outflow path outlet 16-1-heat medium inlet 9-third heat medium flow path 7-3 circulates through the heat medium 6 A third heat medium circulation path is formed, and a fourth heat medium flow path 7-4-heat medium outlet 10-second tray 17-2-first inlet path 15-2-second Inlet passage 13-2-second heat exchanger 12-2-second outlet passage 14-2-second outlet outlet 16-2-heat medium inlet 9-fourth heating medium passage A fourth heat medium circulation path through which the heat medium 6 circulates through 7-4 is formed. Transfer means (not shown) such as a pump for sending the heat medium 6 to the heat exchanger 12 (12-1, 12-2) and returning it to the heat medium flow path 7 (7-3, 7-4). May be used.

  The magnetic refrigeration apparatus 110 in the present embodiment includes a flow path switching valve, a mechanism for reciprocating the magnetic working material, a mechanism for reciprocating the magnetic field generating means, and the direction of the flow of the heat medium flowing in the magnetic working material such as a displacer. There is no need for a means for changing the magnetic field, an on / off control means for the magnetic field generating means, or the like. Further, only the drum 3 is driven during the operation of the magnetic refrigeration apparatus, and the drum 3 can have a simple structure. The drum 3 is steadily rotating in one direction, and the fluid flow direction is one direction. is there. Therefore, no complicated control is required. For this reason, it is possible to provide a low-cost magnetic refrigeration apparatus with a simple and compact configuration that is easy to control during operation.

  FIG. 7 shows a configuration example of the magnetic refrigeration apparatus 120 according to the third embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 7, portions having the same functions as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted. The magnetic field generating means 1, the magnetic working material 2, the prime mover, etc. (not shown), the heat medium 6, and the heat exchanger 12 are the same as those in the first embodiment. The drum 3 and the heat exchange means (corresponding to the heat medium flow path 7 in the first embodiment) are different from those in the first embodiment. Further, there is no opening through which the heat medium 6 enters and exits the drum 3, and there is no backing plate 11.

  In the present embodiment, the peripheral fixing portion 21 (21-1, 21-2) is fixed at the outer peripheral portion (cylindrical portion) of the drum 3 so as to be in contact with the outer peripheral portion of the drum 3 and to be relatively slidable. The heat exchanging means 26 (26-1, 26-2) as the heat medium flow path 7 is fixed to the peripheral fixed portion 21 and fixed to the peripheral fixing portion 21, and the heat medium 6 passes through the pipe. Flows. The heat exchanger 12 has a first heat exchanger 12-1 and a second heat exchanger 12-2, and the heat exchange means 26 is a first heat exchange means 26-1 and a second heat exchange means 26. -2.

  The first inflow path 13-1 to the exhaust heat side heat exchanger (first heat exchanger) 12-1 is piped to the first peripheral fixed portion 21-1 on the magnetization side M1 of the drum 3. The second peripheral fixed portion 21 in which the first outflow path 14-1 from the exhaust heat side heat exchanger 12-1 is located on the demagnetization side M2 of the drum 3 at the heat medium outlet 10 of the first heat exchange means 26-1. -2 is connected to the heat medium inlet 9 (the back side in the figure) of the second heat exchange means 26-2 piped to -2, and is connected to the cooling heat exchanger (second heat exchanger) 12-2. The cooling side heat exchanger 12-2 is connected to the heat medium outlet 10 of the cooling side heat exchange means 26-2 in which the inflow path 13-2 is piped to the second peripheral fixed portion 21-2 on the demagnetization side M2 of the drum 3. The heat of exhaust heat side heat exchange means 26-1 piped to the first peripheral fixed portion 21-1 where the second outflow passage 14-2 from the first peripheral fixed portion 21-1 on the magnetization side M1 of the drum 3 is provided. Body inlet 9 is connected to (the back side in the figure).

  Thus, the exhaust heat side heat exchanger (first heat exchanger) 12-1-first outlet path 14-1-heat medium inlet 9-second heat exchange means 26-2-heat medium outlet 10- Second inflow path 13-2-cooling side heat exchanger (second heat exchanger) 12-2-second outflow path 14-2-heat medium inlet 9-first heat exchanging means 26-1- A fifth heat medium circulation path composed of the heat medium outlet 10-the first inflow path 13-1 -the exhaust heat side heat exchanger (first heat exchanger) 12-1 is formed. The fifth heat medium circuit is in a fixed position. Further, a heat medium transfer means 19 such as a pump is inserted in the middle of the inflow path 13-1 to the exhaust heat side heat exchanger 12-1. The heat transfer means 19 is not limited to the above position, and the exhaust heat side heat exchanger 12-1, the second heat exchange means 26-2, the cooling side heat exchanger 12-2, the first heat exchange means. It may be inserted anywhere in the fifth heat medium circuit connecting 26-1.

  Since the magnetic working material 2 in the drum 3 rotates and periodically moves between the demagnetization side M2 and the magnetization side M1, the magnetic working material 2 on the demagnetization side M2 always becomes a low temperature, and the magnetization side M1 The magnetic working material 2 becomes hot. The heat medium 6 enters the second heat exchanging means 26-2 from the exhaust heat side heat exchanger 12-1, transfers heat to and from the magnetic working material 2 that has been demagnetized and drops in temperature, and the temperature drops. Next, the heat medium 6 passes through the cooling side heat exchanger 12-2. At this time, after the heat exchange object is cooled, the heat medium 6 enters the first heat exchange means 26-1, and is magnetized to increase the temperature of the magnetic working material. Heat is exchanged with 2 and the temperature rises. And it enters into the exhaust heat side heat exchanger 12-1 again, and heats the heat exchange object at this time. The above operation is repeated and magnetic refrigeration is performed. Here, transfer of heat between the heat medium 6 and the magnetic working material 2 is performed by heat conduction and / or heat radiation in the first heat exchanging means 26-1 and the second heat exchanging means 26-2.

  When the heat exchanging means 26 (26-1, 26-2) is attached to the peripheral fixed portion 21 (21-1, 21-2), the heat transfer between the heat medium 6 and the magnetic working material 2 is not performed. It is performed by the heat exchange means 26 through the outer peripheral portion of the drum 3 and the peripheral fixing portion 21 between them. As described above, the heat exchanging means 26 is fixed to the peripheral fixing portion 21 and is piped, and the drum 3 rotates. Therefore, the outer peripheral portion of the drum 3 and the heat exchanging means 26 and the peripheral fixing portion 21 are relative to each other. The magnetic working material 2 and the heat medium 6 in the drum 3 exchange heat through heat conduction or / and heat radiation through the sliding surface. Further, when the heat exchanging means 26 and the peripheral fixed portion 21 are integrally formed, the heat exchanging means 26 directly contacts the surface of the drum 3 and slides. Since the centrifugal force is not used as in the first embodiment, the circulation of the heat medium 6 is driven by the pump 19.

  FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 show examples of specific piping positions in the third embodiment. 8 (a1), (b1), FIG. 9 (c1), and (d1), the piping positions viewed from the upper surface side of the drum 3 are shown in FIGS. 8 (a2), (b2), FIG. 9 (c2), and (d2). ) Shows the respective cross sections (AA to DD cross sections). In the example of FIGS. 8A1 and 8A2, the upper and lower surfaces of the drum 3 are the peripheral fixed portions 22 (22-1 and 22-2), and the first heat exchange means 27- disposed on the magnetization side M1. 1. The second heat exchanging means 27-2 disposed on the demagnetization side M2 extends across the upper surface and the lower surface, and the first fixed portion 22-1 on the magnetization side M1 and the second fixed portion on the demagnetization side M2. The pipe is circumscribed to 22-2. The pipe is formed by connecting a plurality of parallel straight pipes at the end (the connecting portion of the end is omitted). In this case, the upper and lower surfaces 8 of the drum 3 and the fixed portion 22 slide with each other.

  In the example of FIGS. 8B1 and 8B2, the peripheral fixing portion 23 (23-1, 23-2) is provided on the outer peripheral portion (cylindrical portion) of the drum 3, and the first heat disposed on the magnetization side M1. The exchange means 28-1 and the second heat exchange means 28-2 disposed on the demagnetization side M2 are both the first fixed part 23-1 on the magnetization side M1 and the second fixed part 23-2 on the demagnetization side M2. The pipe is circumscribed by the pipe. For example, the pipe is formed by connecting a plurality of semicircular pipes having the same radius at the end as shown in FIG. 7 (in FIG. 8, the connecting portion of the end is omitted). In this case, the outer peripheral portion (cylindrical surface) of the drum 3 and the fixed portion 23 slide with each other.

  In the example of FIGS. 9C1 and 9C2, there is no drum on which the magnetic working material is mounted as rotating means, and the rotating shaft 4 and the supporting member that is attached to the rotating shaft 4 and supports the magnetic working material 2. 5 (not shown) functions as a rotating means. In place of the upper and lower surfaces of the drum, the peripheral fixed portions 24 (24-1, 24-2) are fixedly disposed at the positions, and the first heat exchange means 29-1 and the demagnetizing side M2 disposed on the magnetization side M1. The second heat exchanging means 29-2 disposed on the upper side and the lower side of the second heat exchanging means 29-2 both extend over the first fixed portion 24-1 on the magnetization side M1 and the second fixed portion 24-2 on the demagnetization side M2. It is inscribed in the pipe. The pipe is formed by connecting a plurality of concentric semicircular pipes at the end (the connecting portion of the end is omitted). In this case, the magnetic working material 2, the fixed portion 24, and the heat exchanging means 29 (29-1, 29-2) slide with each other. The transfer of heat between the magnetic working material 2 and the heat medium 6 is performed mainly through contact between the magnetic working material 2 and the heat exchange means 29.

  In the example of FIGS. 9D1 and 9D2, there is no drum on which the magnetic working material is mounted as the rotating means, and the rotating shaft 4 and the supporting member attached to the rotating shaft 4 and supporting the magnetic working material 2 are supported. 5 (not shown) functions as a rotating means. Instead of the outer peripheral portion (cylindrical portion) of the drum, the peripheral fixing portion 25 (25-1, 25-2) is fixedly arranged at that position, and the first heat exchanging means 30-1 is arranged on the magnetization side M1. The second heat exchanging means 30-2 arranged on the demagnetization side M2 are inscribed in the first fixed portion 25-1 on the magnetization side M1 and the second fixed portion 25-2 on the demagnetization side M2, respectively. Has been. For example, the pipe is formed by connecting a plurality of semicircular pipes having the same radius at the end as shown in FIG. 7 (in FIG. 9, the connecting portion of the end is omitted). In this case, the magnetic working material 2, the fixed portion 25, and the heat exchanging means 30 (30-1, 30-2) slide with each other. Heat transfer between the magnetic working material 2 and the heat medium 6 is performed mainly through contact between the magnetic working material 2 and the heat exchange means 30. As in these examples, the heat exchanging means 26 to 30 that are also the flow paths of the heat medium 6 may be circumscribed or fixedly connected to the fixed portions 21 to 25.

  Further, the plate-like magnetic working substance 2 in the drum 3 is thinned at the outer peripheral side, for example, by making the same notch as the concave and convex portions of the pipe so as to contact as much as possible with the pipe of the heat exchange means 29-30. It is desirable to devise a thick fan shape. 7, 8, and 9, the above description has been made on the case where the peripheral fixing portions 21 to 25 exist, but if the heat exchange means 26 to 30 itself can maintain a fixed position, the peripheral fixing portion 21 is provided. ~ 25 may be omitted. In the above description, the case where the magnetic working material 2 is supported by the support member 5 has been described. However, the rotating shaft 4 may support the magnetic working material 2.

  In the present embodiment, the heat medium 6 is continuously transferred using the heat medium transfer means 19. In FIG. 7, the position of the heat exchanging means 26 arranged close to the drum 3 is fixed at a fixed position independently of the drum 3. Further, in the present embodiment, the magnetic field increase / decrease is performed by the rotation of the rotating means such as the drum 3, and the rotating means and the motor (not shown) that rotates the rotating means also serve as the magnetic field increasing / decreasing means.

  The magnetic refrigeration apparatus in the present embodiment includes a flow path switching valve, a mechanism for reciprocating the magnetic working material, a mechanism for reciprocating the magnetic field generating means, and a flow direction of the heat medium flowing in the magnetic working material such as a displacer. There is no need for means for changing and means for controlling on / off of the magnetic field generating means. Further, only the drum 3 and the heat medium transfer means 19 are driven during the operation of the magnetic refrigeration apparatus, so that the structure can be simplified, and the drum 3 is steadily rotating in one direction. The flow direction is one direction. Therefore, no complicated control is required. For this reason, it is possible to provide a low-cost magnetic refrigeration apparatus with a simple and compact configuration that is easy to control during operation.

  Next, an example in which the magnetic refrigeration apparatus according to the present invention is applied to a refrigerator will be described. As a fourth embodiment, an example of a refrigerator using the magnetic refrigeration apparatus 120 according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of an example of a refrigerator in the fourth embodiment of the present invention. The refrigerator 51 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape and includes a refrigerator room 62 and a machine room 59 inside (see FIG. 11). 52 is a refrigerator compartment door, 60 is a machine room door, 78-1 and 78-2 are a handle of the refrigerator compartment door 52, and a handle of the machine room door 60, respectively. 57 is an exhaust heat window, and 77 is an intake window.

  FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing an example of the internal configuration of the refrigerator 51 of FIG. FIG. 11A is an overall view, and FIG. 11B is a partially enlarged view of the outer wall. The refrigerating room 62 and the machine room 59 are partitioned by a partition wall 58, and each room has a refrigerating room door 52 and a machine room door 60 in front (see FIG. 10). The exterior is covered with an exterior plate 53. The refrigerator compartment 62 is surrounded by the interior plate 54 and has a heat insulating material 55 between the interior plate 54 and the exterior plate 53 to prevent heat from being exchanged with the outside. A base plate 61 is provided on the bottom surface of the refrigerator 51. In the refrigerator 51, driving units such as an electric motor 71, a pump 67 (corresponding to the heat medium transfer means 19 in FIG. 7), and a blower fan 74 use a commercial power source (not shown) as an energy source.

  The refrigerator 51 has a heat exhaust window 57 and an intake window 77 as openings in the exterior plate 53 on the side of the machine room 59 in contact with the outside air. An exhaust heat exchanger 68 (corresponding to 12-1 in FIG. 7) described later is installed in the vicinity of the exhaust heat window 57 in the machine room 59. By circulating the outside air into the machine room 59 through the intake window 77 and the exhaust heat window 57, the heat that has entered the refrigerating room 62 is discharged to the outside of the refrigerator 51 using the fan 74 or by circulation of the outside air. In this refrigerator 51, since the magnetic refrigeration apparatus 120 (3rd Embodiment) of this invention is used as a cooling means of the refrigerator compartment 62, it demonstrates, also referring FIG. As a configuration corresponding to the magnetic field generating means 1, two pairs of substantially rectangular parallelepiped permanent magnets 70 are close to both surfaces of the magnetic working material drum 3 and face both surfaces of the drum 3 and the two permanent magnets 70. The two surfaces are arranged in parallel to each other. The pair of two permanent magnets 70 are fixed at a fixed position by a magnet fixing base 75, and the magnet fixing base 75 is fixed to a side plate of the refrigerator machine room 59.

The attachment position of the permanent magnet 70 can be finely adjusted by using a shim or the like, for example. The drum 3 is rotationally driven by connecting the rotary shaft 4 to the drive shaft of the variable speed electric motor 71 by a coupling 72. The variable speed motor 71 is fixed to the base plate 61 by a motor mounting base 73. In the refrigerator 51, as the drum 3 and the heat exchange means 28 (28-1, 28-2), those shown in FIGS. 8B1 and 8B2 are used. That is, the arrangement of the magnetic working material 2 in the drum 3 and the mode of the heat exchange means 28 between the heat medium 6 and the magnetic working material 2 are as shown in FIGS. 8 (b1) and (b2). A plurality of pipes shown as the exchange means 28 are connected to each other at their ends (not shown), and the inflow portion of the heat medium 6 to the heat exchange means 28 and the heat medium 6 from the heat exchange means 28 are connected. Each outflow portion is integrated into one pipe and connected to the heat medium pipe 66. The heat medium pipe 66 corresponds to the inflow paths 13-1 and 13-2 and the outflow paths 14-1 and 14-2 in FIG. 7, and the heat medium 6 flows through the heat medium pipe 66.
The heat medium transfer pump 67 corresponds to the heat medium transfer means 19 shown in FIG. 7, and includes a structure having a centrifugal impeller and a variable speed electric motor that rotationally drives the centrifugal impeller, and is fixed to the base plate 61 by bolts or the like.

The heat exchanger for exhaust heat 68 and the heat exchanger for cooling 69 (corresponding to 12-1 and 12-2 in FIG. 7 respectively) are fin-and-tube heat exchangers, each having a blower fan 74, and heat Heat exchange between the medium 6 and the outside air and between the heat medium 6 and the air in the refrigerator compartment 62 is promoted.
The refrigerator 51 has a temperature sensor 76 for detecting the room temperature inside the refrigerator compartment 62. A temperature signal detected by the temperature sensor 76 is transmitted to a temperature controller (not shown) via a signal cable (not shown). The refrigeration room indoor temperature command value to be targeted is input to the temperature controller in advance, and is compared with the signal value of the temperature detected inside the temperature controller. Based on the deviation amount, the temperature controller determines the temperature of the magnetic refrigeration apparatus 120. Adjust the freezing capacity.

  For example, when it is necessary to increase the refrigerating capacity as compared with the current operation state, the temperature controller independently outputs a signal for increasing the rotation speed to the variable speed electric motor 71 and the heat medium transfer pump 67. As a result, the rotational speed of the drum 3 is increased, so that the number of times of magnetization and demagnetization per unit time of the magnetic working material 2 is increased, so that the refrigerating capacity is increased. And in order to make the refrigeration capacity increased by the drum 3 act appropriately in the refrigeration load, that is, to exhibit the effect of increasing the refrigeration capacity, the circulation amount of the heat medium 6 per unit time is increased. In this case, since the heat transfer load increases in both the heat exchanger 68 for exhaust heat and the heat exchanger 69 for cooling, the amount of heat transfer in these heat exchangers 68 and 69 is increased (heat transfer is promoted). In addition, it is preferable to increase the air volume by increasing the rotational speed of the blower fan 74 of each of the heat exchangers 68 and 69.

  In the above description, the case where an increase in the refrigerating capacity is required in the case where two pairs of permanent magnets 70 are used as the configuration corresponding to the magnetic field generation means 1 has been described. In this case, since the strength (magnetic flux density) of the magnetic field formed by the permanent magnet 70 is constant, the temperature difference generated when the magnetic working material 2 enters and exits the magnetic field is constant. Therefore, the temperature difference that changes while the heat medium 6 passes through the heat exchange means 28-1 and 28-2 (the temperature of the heat medium 6 between the inlet and the outlet of the heat exchange means 28-1 and 28-2). However, as an example, the increase in the refrigerating capacity is indicated by the increase in the rotation speed of the drum 3 and the increase in the flow rate of the heat medium 6. Considering the case where the generating means 1 is composed of an electromagnet, the magnetic field strength (magnetic flux density) can be increased by increasing the voltage applied to the electromagnet, and as a result, the magnetic working substance 2 enters and exits the magnetic field. This can increase the temperature difference generated. Therefore, the temperature difference of the heat medium 6 at the entrance / exit of the heat exchange means 28-1 and 28-2 can also be increased. For this reason, in the heat exchanger for exhaust heat 68, the temperature difference between the outside air and the heat medium 6 becomes large, so that the rotation speed of the drum 3 is constant and the circulation amount of the heat medium 6 per unit time is constant. However, the amount of heat released to the outside air can be increased, and in the cooling heat exchanger 69, the temperature difference between the air in the refrigerator compartment 62 and the heat medium 6 becomes large, so that the rotation speed of the drum 3 is constant and the heat medium 6 Even if the amount of circulation per unit time is constant, the amount of heat absorbed from the air in the refrigerator compartment 62 can be increased. Therefore, if this method is used, even if the rotational speed of the drum 3 and the circulation amount of the heat medium 6 per unit time are constant, a larger amount of heat can be transferred to the heat load side by increasing the temperature difference of the heat medium. Therefore, there is no need to increase the rotational speed of the drum 3 or the circulation amount of the heat medium 6. Even in this case, it is preferable to increase the rotational speed of the blower fan 74 of each of the heat exchangers 68 and 69.

  Next, the action of the heat medium including temperature change will be described while following the movement of the heat medium 6 in the circulation path.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram schematically showing the temperature change of the heat medium 6 with respect to the place where the heat medium 6 exists. The heat medium 6 passes through the heat exchanging means 28-1 arranged on the magnetization side (Ml side), flows into the heat medium transfer pump 67, and the heat medium 6 discharged from the heat medium transfer pump 67 is It is heated by the magnetic working substance 2 whose temperature has increased due to magnetization and is in a high temperature state, and reaches the heat exchanger 68 for exhaust heat through the heat medium pipe 66 as it is (state (A)). While passing through the heat exchanger 68 for exhaust heat, the heat medium 6 is cooled by the outside air and reaches the outlet of the heat exchanger 68 (state (B)). Next, the demagnetization side (M2 side) heat exchange means 28-2 reaches the population via the heat medium pipe 66 (state (C)). Here, the heat medium 6 is demagnetized and exchanges heat with the magnetic working material 2 whose temperature is lowered, and the temperature is lowered and reaches the outlet of the heat exchange means 28-2 (state (d)). Next, the refrigerant reaches the inlet of the cooling heat exchanger 69 via the heat medium pipe 66 (state (e)). In the heat exchanger 69, the heat medium 6 cools the air in the refrigerator compartment 62, that is, is heated by the air in the refrigerator compartment 62 and reaches the outlet of the heat exchanger 69 (state (f)).

  The heat medium 6 again reaches the inlet of the magnetization side (Ml side) heat exchange means 28-1 of the drum 3 via the heat medium pipe 66 (state (G)). The heat medium 6 that has entered the heat exchanging means 28-1 is heated by exchanging heat with the magnetic working substance 2 whose temperature has increased due to magnetization, and reaches the outlet of the heat exchanging means 28-1 (state (H)). From here, the heat medium 6 again flows into the heat medium transfer pump 67 through the heat medium passage 66 and is discharged from the pump 67 to the inlet of the exhaust heat side heat exchanger 68. The temperature of the heat medium 6 at this time is in the state shown in FIG. Thereafter, by repeating the cycle in the same manner, the inside of the refrigerator compartment 62 is kept at a low temperature by pumping the heat in the refrigerator compartment 62 at a low temperature to the outside air at a high temperature and radiating it. In addition, the inlets and outlets of the heat exchangers 68 and 69 in the present embodiment are the heat exchangers 12 (12-1 and 12-2), the inflow path 13 (13-1 and 13-2), and the outflow path in FIG. 14 (14-1, 14-2).

  Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications can be made to the embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Is obvious.

  For example, in the first embodiment, the inlet of the inflow path and the outlet of the outflow path to the exhaust heat side heat exchanger and the cooling side heat exchanger are formed on different contact plates (11-1 and 11-2). Alternatively, they may be formed on the same backing plate. That is, both the inflow path and the outflow path to the exhaust heat side heat exchanger and the cooling side heat exchanger may be disposed on the same backing plate. Further, the contact plate may be provided on the outer peripheral portion instead of the upper and lower surfaces of the drum. In the third embodiment, the case where there is one heat medium circulation path has been described. However, two heat medium circulation paths may be provided separately for the exhaust heat side and the cooling side. In addition, for example, in the present embodiment, an example in which a drum is used as a container as a rotating unit that stores a magnetic working substance has been described. But it ’s okay. Further, the rotating means is not limited to the container, and any means may be used as long as it supports the magnetic working substance, rotates it, and moves it in and out of the magnetic field. Further, the shape of the flow path for the heat medium formed so as to be in contact with the magnetic working substance is not limited to a rectangle, and may be a fan shape. In the present specification, the magnetic refrigeration apparatus has been described with emphasis on the refrigeration function, but the exhaust heat of these magnetic refrigeration apparatuses can be used for heating and other heating applications.

  Since the present invention can provide a magnetic refrigeration apparatus having a simple configuration and easy control during operation, it can be applied to a refrigerator, a freezer, an air conditioner, and the like.

It is a figure which shows the structural example of the magnetic refrigeration apparatus in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the magnetic working substance in a drum. It is a figure which shows notionally the structure in a drum. It is a figure which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the heat exchanger to a drum. It is a figure which shows the structural example in a drum. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the magnetic refrigeration apparatus in the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the magnetic refrigeration apparatus in the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the example of the concrete piping position in 3rd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of the concrete piping position in 3rd Embodiment. It is a perspective view of the refrigerator in the 4th Embodiment of this invention. It is a perspective view which shows the internal structure of the refrigerator of FIG. It is the figure which represented typically the temperature change of a heat carrier with respect to the location. It is a figure for demonstrating the principle of magnetic refrigeration. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the conventional magnetic refrigeration apparatus.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Magnetic field generating means 2, 2a-2n Magnetic working material 3 Magnetic working material drum (rotating means, container)
4 Rotating shaft 5 Support member 6 Heat medium 7, 7-1 to 7-4, 7a to 7d Heat medium flow path 8 Drum upper surface, lower surface 9 Heat medium inlet 10 Heat medium outlet 11, 11-1, 11-2 Plate 12, 12-1, 12-2 Heat exchanger 13, 13-1, 13-2 Inflow channel 14, 14-1, 14-2 Outlet channel 15, 15-1, 15-2 Inlet channel inlet 16 , 16-1, 16-2 Outlet of outlet 17, 17-1, 17-2 Receptacle 18 Closure cover 19 Heat medium transfer means 21-25, 21-1-25-1, 21-2-25-2 Drum Peripheral fixed parts 26-30, 26-1-30-1, 26-2-30-2 Heat exchange means 31 Heat medium 32, 33 Magnetic working substance 34 Magnetic field generation means 35 Pump 36 Flow path operation valve 37 Heat exhaust part 38 Cooling part 39 Heat exchange object 51 Refrigerator 52 Refrigeration room door 53 Exterior plate 54 Interior plate 5 insulation material 57 Hainetsumado 58 partition wall 59 machine room 60 machine compartment door 61 the base plate 62 refrigerating compartment 66 heat medium pipe (corresponding to 13-1,13-2,14-1,14-2)
67 Heat transfer pump (equivalent to 19)
68 Heat exchanger for exhaust heat (equivalent to 12-1)
69 Heat exchanger for cooling (equivalent to 12-2)
70 Permanent magnet (equivalent to 1)
71 Variable speed motor (for drum rotation drive)
72 Coupling 73 Motor mounting base 74 Blower fan 75 Magnet fixing base 76 Temperature sensor 77 Air intake windows 78-1 and 78-2 Handles (grips)
100, 110, 120, 130 Magnetic refrigeration apparatus M1 Magnetization side M2 Demagnetization side

Claims (10)

Magnetic field generating means for generating a magnetic field;
A magnetic working material whose temperature changes as the magnetic field increases or decreases;
Rotating means for carrying the magnetic working material and rotating the magnetic working material into and out of a magnetic field formed by the magnetic field generating means;
A heat medium that exchanges heat with the magnetic working material;
A heat medium flow path arranged to exchange heat between the magnetic working material and the heat medium during rotation of the magnetic working material;
A heat exchanger connected to the heat medium flow path and performing heat exchange between the heat medium and a heat exchange target;
Magnetic refrigeration equipment. The heat medium flow path has a radial component with respect to the center of rotation, and rotates with the magnetic working material, and the heat medium flows in the heat medium flow path radially outward. Done;
The magnetic refrigeration apparatus according to claim 1. The rotating means is a container on which the magnetic working substance and the heat medium flow path are mounted, and is configured to rotate the magnetic working substance and the heat medium flow path by rotating the container. ;
A plurality of the magnetic working materials are radially disposed in the container from the center of rotation;
A plurality of heat medium flow paths are formed in contact with the magnetic working material;
Using the centrifugal force of the rotation, the heat medium flows through the heat medium flow path in contact with the magnetic working substance;
The magnetic refrigeration apparatus according to claim 2. A first heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger as the heat exchanger;
A first caulking plate provided in the vicinity of the container and connected to the first heat exchanger and having a first inflow passage inlet and a first outflow passage outlet through which the heat medium flows is provided at a fixed position. ;
An inlet of the first inlet channel and an outlet of the first outlet channel are provided in the magnetic field;
During the rotation of the container, the heat medium outlet and the heat medium inlet of each of the heat medium flow paths (hereinafter referred to as the first heat medium flow path in the present claims) in the magnetic field respectively. The first heat medium flow path, the first inflow path, the first heat exchanger and the first heat medium when the first inflow path overlaps with the first outflow path outlet. A first heat medium circulation path is formed in which the heat medium circulates through one outflow path;
A second contact plate provided in the vicinity of the container and having a second inflow path inlet and a second outflow path outlet connected to the second heat exchanger and through which the heat medium flows is provided at a fixed position. ;
An inlet of the second inlet channel and an outlet of the second outlet channel are provided outside the magnetic field;
During the rotation of the container, a heat medium outlet and a heat medium inlet of any one of the heat medium flow paths outside the magnetic field (hereinafter referred to as a second heat medium flow path in the present claims) are respectively provided. The second heat medium flow path, the second inflow path, the second heat exchanger, and the first when the second inflow path overlaps with the second outflow path outlet A second heat medium circulation path is formed in which the heat medium circulates through two outflow paths;
The magnetic refrigeration apparatus according to claim 3. A first heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger as the heat exchanger;
During the rotation of the container, heat overflowing from the outer periphery of the container from any one of the heat medium flow paths (hereinafter referred to as a third heat medium flow path in the present claims) in the magnetic field. A first pan for collecting the medium in place;
An inlet of a first inflow passage and an outlet of a first outflow passage which are connected to the first heat exchanger and through which the heat medium flows are provided in the magnetic field;
Third heat medium circulation in which the heat medium circulates through the third heat medium flow path, the first tray, the first inflow path, the first heat exchanger, and the first outflow path. A path is formed;
During the rotation of the container, heat overflowing from the outer periphery of the container from any one of the heat medium flow paths outside the magnetic field (hereinafter referred to as a fourth heat medium flow path in the present claims). With a second pan in place to collect the medium;
An inlet of a second inflow passage and an outlet of a second outflow passage that are connected to the second heat exchanger and through which the heat medium flows are provided outside the magnetic field;
Fourth heat medium circulation in which the heat medium circulates through the fourth heat medium flow path, the second tray, the second inflow path, the second heat exchanger, and the second outflow path. A path is formed;
The magnetic refrigeration apparatus according to claim 3. A first heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger as the heat exchanger;
A first heat exchange means and a second heat exchange means as the heat medium flow path;
The first heat exchange means is disposed at a fixed position in the magnetic field around the container, and a heat medium outlet of the first heat exchange means is a first inflow path of the first heat exchanger. And the heat medium inlet of the first heat exchange means is connected to the outlet of the second outlet of the second heat exchanger;
The second heat exchange means is disposed at a fixed position outside the magnetic field around the container, and a heat medium outlet of the second heat exchange means is a second inflow path of the second heat exchanger. A heat medium inlet of the second heat exchange means is connected to an outlet of the first outlet of the first heat exchanger;
A fifth heat medium circulation path is formed through which the heat medium circulates through the first heat exchange means, the first heat exchanger, the second heat exchange means, and the second heat exchanger. ;
The magnetic refrigeration apparatus according to claim 1. Magnetic field generating means for generating a magnetic field;
A magnetic working material whose temperature changes as the magnetic field increases or decreases;
Magnetic field increasing / decreasing means for increasing / decreasing the magnetic field applied to the magnetic working substance;
A heat medium that exchanges heat with the magnetic working material;
A heat medium flow path provided to exchange heat between the magnetic working material and the heat medium;
A heat exchanger connected to the heat medium flow path and performing heat exchange between the heat medium and a heat exchange target,
The flow direction of the heat medium in the heat medium flow path is one direction;
Magnetic refrigeration equipment. Said magnetic field generating means is fixed in place;
The magnetic field increasing / decreasing means is a mechanism for rotating the magnetic working substance into and out of a magnetic field formed by the magnetic field generating means;
The magnetic refrigeration apparatus according to claim 7. The heating medium flow path has a radial component relative to the center of rotation and rotates with the magnetic working material;
The magnetic refrigeration apparatus according to claim 8. The magnetic working material and the heating medium flow path are accommodated in a container rotating about its center, and a plurality of the heating medium and the heating medium flow radially from the center of the container so that the heating medium flows while contacting the magnetic working material. Formed;
Each of the plurality of heat medium flow paths includes a heat medium outlet and a heat medium inlet as openings spaced apart from each other in the radial direction of the container;
A position where the first inflow passage inlet and the first outflow passage outlet as the connection portion of the heat exchanger with the heat medium flow path slide with the container and coincide with the opening by the rotation of the container. Provided in;
The magnetic refrigeration apparatus according to claim 9.

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