WO2016035267A1

WO2016035267A1 - Thermal component

Info

Publication number: WO2016035267A1
Application number: PCT/JP2015/004108
Authority: WO
Inventors: 彰宏井村
Original assignee: 株式会社デンソー
Priority date: 2014-09-03
Filing date: 2015-08-19
Publication date: 2016-03-10
Also published as: JP2016053445A; JP6350138B2

Abstract

As a thermal component, an air conditioning apparatus (1) comprises a magneto-caloric heat pump apparatus (MHP apparatus) (11) as a thermal-magnetic cycle apparatus. The MHP apparatus (11) makes use of magneto-caloric effects of a magneto-caloric element (12) disposed between a low temperature tip (12a) and a high temperature tip (12b). The MHP apparatus (11) comprises a low temperature system (2) that exchanges heat with the low temperature tip (12a), and a high temperature system (3) that exchanges heat with the high temperature tip (12b). A control apparatus (41) of the air conditioning apparatus (1) activates the low temperature system (2) or the high temperature system (3) before starting the MHP apparatus (11). Even if the temperature of the MHP apparatus (11)is excessively high or excessively low, the MHP apparatus (11)is temperature adjusted by the low temperature system (2) or the high temperature system (3), as a result of which, starting the MHP apparatus (11) becomes possible.

Description

Thermal equipment

Cross-reference of related applications

This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2014-179484 filed on September 3, 2014, and the disclosure of the basic application is incorporated into this application by reference.

This disclosure relates to a thermal apparatus including a thermomagnetic cycle device that utilizes the temperature characteristics of a magnetic material.

Patent Document 1 to Patent Document 5 describe a thermomagnetic cycle apparatus that utilizes the temperature characteristics of a magnetic material. The thermomagnetic cycle apparatus can be used as a heat pump or an engine. In the heat pump, a low temperature or a high temperature is extracted by a magnetic fluctuation caused by power. In the engine, power is extracted by magnetic fluctuations caused by temperature differences. These devices utilize a magnetocaloric element as a magnetic material.

JP 2012-229831 A JP 2012-255642 A JP 2012-229634 A Special table 2012-503754 gazette U.S. Pat. No. 8,448,453

Many magnetocaloric elements exhibit a high magnetocaloric effect in a relatively narrow high efficiency temperature zone. For this reason, the thermomagnetism cycle device can exhibit a predetermined function by being started from a startable temperature range including the high efficiency temperature range.

However, due to the environment in which the thermomagnetic cycle device is placed, the temperature of the thermomagnetic cycle device may reach outside the startable temperature range. The thermomagnetism cycle device may be started from an initial temperature outside the startable temperature range. In this case, the thermomagnetism cycle device may take a long time to perform a predetermined function. In this case, the thermomagnetic cycle apparatus may not be able to perform a predetermined function.

In the above-mentioned viewpoints or other viewpoints that are not mentioned, further improvement is required for the thermal equipment using the thermomagnetic cycle apparatus.

One object of the disclosure is to provide a thermal apparatus including a thermomagnetic cycle device that can promote startup from an initial temperature.

Another object of the disclosure is to provide a thermal apparatus including a thermomagnetic cycle apparatus that can be activated from a wide temperature range.

It is another object of the disclosure to provide a thermal apparatus including a thermomagnetic cycle device that can reach the steady operation temperature from the initial temperature in a short time.

It is still another object of the disclosure to provide a thermal apparatus including a thermomagnetic cycle device that can execute a preparatory operation before startup with low energy consumption.

The following technical means can be adopted to achieve the above objective. Note that the reference numerals in parentheses described in the claims and in this section indicate the correspondence with the specific means described in the embodiments described later as one aspect, and limit the technical scope of the disclosure. Not what you want.

According to one of the disclosures, a thermal apparatus including a thermomagnetic cycle device is provided. The disclosure relates to a thermomagnetism cycle device (11) that utilizes the magnetocaloric effect of a magnetocaloric element (12) disposed between a cold end and a hot end, and for heat transport to exchange heat with the cold end or the hot end. External system (2, 3) and a control device (41, 241, 341) having a pre-startup processing unit (185, 285, 385) for operating the external system before starting the thermomagnetism cycle device. It is characterized by that.

The external system is activated before the thermomagnetic cycle device is activated. Thereby, the low temperature end or high temperature end of the thermomagnetic cycle device exchanges heat with the external system. As a result, the temperature of the thermomagnetic cycle device is adjusted by the external system through the low temperature end or the high temperature end. Even if the initial temperature of the thermomagnetism cycle device is at an excessively high temperature or an excessively low temperature, the temperature of the thermomagnetism cycle device approaches a temperature suitable for start-up by temperature adjustment by an external system. As a result, activation of the thermomagnetism cycle device is promoted.

It is a block diagram of the thermomagnetism cycle device concerning a 1st embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the starting pre-processing of 1st Embodiment. It is a graph which shows the starting pre-processing of 1st Embodiment. It is a block diagram of the thermomagnetism cycle device concerning a 2nd embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the starting pre-processing of 2nd Embodiment. It is a block diagram of the thermomagnetism cycle device concerning a 3rd embodiment. It is a block diagram of the thermomagnetism cycle device concerning a 3rd embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the starting pre-processing of 3rd Embodiment. It is a graph which shows the starting pre-processing of 3rd Embodiment.

A plurality of modes for carrying out the disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In each embodiment, portions corresponding to the matters described in the preceding embodiment may be denoted by the same reference numerals and redundant description may be omitted. Further, in the following embodiments, the correspondence corresponding to the matters corresponding to the matters described in the preceding embodiments is indicated by adding reference numerals that differ only by one hundred or more, and redundant description may be omitted. . In each embodiment, when only a part of the structure is described, the other parts of the structure can be applied with reference to the description of the other forms.

First Embodiment In FIG. 1, an air conditioner 1 as a thermal device includes a magnetocaloric effect type heat pump device 11. The magnetocaloric effect type heat pump apparatus 11 is also referred to as an MHP (Magneto-caloric effect Heat Pump) apparatus 11. The MHP apparatus 11 provides a thermomagnetic cycle apparatus.

In this specification, the term heat pump device is used in a broad sense. That is, the term “heat pump device” includes both a device that uses the cold heat obtained by the heat pump device and a device that uses the heat obtained by the heat pump device. An apparatus using cold heat may be referred to as a refrigeration cycle apparatus. Therefore, in this specification, the term heat pump apparatus is used as a concept including a refrigeration cycle apparatus. The term heat pump device includes a device that utilizes both the cold and hot energy obtained thereby. For example, a dehumidifier is included.

The thermal equipment shown in FIG. The low temperature system 2 carries the cold energy obtained by the MHP device 11. The thermal device has a high temperature system 3. The high temperature system 3 carries the heat obtained by the MHP device 11. The MHP device 11, the low temperature system 2, and the high temperature system 3 provide the air conditioner 1. The air conditioner 1 is a vehicle air conditioner that is mounted on a vehicle and air-conditions a vehicle interior.

The MHP device 11 includes a magnetocaloric element 12. The magnetocaloric element 12 is also called an MCE (Magneto-Caloric Effect) element 12. The MHP device 11 uses the magnetocaloric effect of the MCE element 12. The MHP device 11 generates a low temperature end 12 a and a high temperature end 12 b by the MCE element 12. The MCE element 12 is provided between the low temperature end 12a and the high temperature end 12b. In the illustrated example, the upper side in the figure is the low temperature end 12a, and the lower side in the figure is the high temperature end 12b.

The MCE element 12 is disposed in the work chamber so as to exchange heat with the heat transport medium. The MCE element 12 generates heat and absorbs heat in response to changes in the strength of the external magnetic field. The MCE element 12 generates heat when an external magnetic field is applied, and absorbs heat when the external magnetic field is removed. When the electron spin is aligned in the magnetic field direction by applying an external magnetic field, the MCE element 12 decreases in magnetic entropy and increases its temperature by releasing heat. In addition, when the electron spin becomes messy due to the removal of the external magnetic field, the MCE element 12 increases in magnetic entropy and decreases in temperature by absorbing heat. The MCE element 12 exhibits a high magnetocaloric effect in a predetermined high-efficiency temperature zone so as to exhibit the performance required as a thermal device. The MCE element 12 has a gradient in which the high-efficiency temperature zone gradually increases in a continuous or stepwise manner from the low temperature end 12a to the high temperature end 12b.

The material of the MCE element 12 is selected so as to exhibit necessary performance. The MCE element 12 is made of a magnetic material that exhibits a high magnetocaloric effect in a normal temperature range. For example, a gadolinium-based material or a lanthanum-iron-silicon compound can be used. Also, a mixture of manganese, iron, phosphorus and germanium can be used. As the MCE element 12, an element that absorbs heat by applying an external magnetic field and generates heat by removing the external magnetic field may be used.

The MHP device 11 includes a magnetic field modulation device (MG) 13. The magnetic field modulator 13 periodically increases or decreases the strength of the magnetic field applied to the MCE element 12. The magnetic field modulator 13 applies an external magnetic field to the MCE element 12 and increases or decreases the strength of the external magnetic field. The magnetic field modulator 13 periodically switches between an excitation state in which the MCE element 12 is placed in a strong magnetic field and a demagnetization state in which the MCE element 12 is placed in a weak magnetic field or a zero magnetic field. The magnetic field modulation device 13 modulates the external magnetic field so as to periodically repeat an excitation period in which the MCE element 12 is placed in a strong external magnetic field and a demagnetization period in which the MCE element 12 is placed in an external magnetic field weaker than the excitation period. To do. The magnetic field modulation device 13 repeats application and removal of the magnetic field to the MCE element 12 in synchronization with a reciprocating flow of a heat transport medium described later. The magnetic field modulation device 13 includes a magnetic source 13 for generating an external magnetic field, for example, a permanent magnet or an electromagnet.

The MHP device 11 includes a heat transport device (PM) 14. The heat transport device 14 includes a heat transport medium for transporting heat that the MCE element 12 radiates or absorbs heat, and a fluid device for flowing the heat transport medium. The heat transport device 14 is a device that flows along the MCE element 12 a heat transport medium that exchanges heat with the MCE element 12. The heat transport device 14 reciprocates the heat transport medium along the MCE element 12. The heat transport device 14 generates a reciprocating flow of the heat transport medium in synchronization with the change of the external magnetic field by the magnetic field modulation device 13. The heat transport device 14 switches the flow direction of the heat transport medium in synchronization with the increase or decrease of the magnetic field by the magnetic field modulation device 13. The heat transport medium that exchanges heat with the MCE element 12 is called a primary medium. The primary medium can be provided by a fluid such as antifreeze, water, oil. The heat transport device 14 includes a pump for flowing a heat transport medium.

The magnetic field modulation device 13 and the heat transport device 14 cause the MCE element 12 to function as an element of an AMR (Active Magnetic Refrigeration) cycle. When the heat transport medium is caused to flow in the first direction along the MCE element 12 by the heat transport device 14, the magnetic field modulation device 13 applies a strong magnetic field to the MCE element 12. The first direction is a direction from the low temperature end 12a toward the high temperature end 12b. When the heat transport medium is caused to flow along the MCE element 12 in the second direction opposite to the first direction by the heat transport device 14, the magnetic field modulation device 13 applies a weak magnetic field or a zero magnetic field to the MCE element 12. The second direction is a direction from the high temperature end 12b toward the low temperature end 12a.

Various configurations can be adopted for the magnetic field modulation device 13 and the heat transport device 14, and the description of the prior art documents listed in this specification can be referred to for these devices. The content of the prior art document is introduced or incorporated by reference as an explanation of the technical elements described in this specification.

The low temperature system 2 is a heat transport device for transporting, using or discarding the low temperature provided by the MHP device 11. The low temperature system 2 includes a flow path 21 through which the heat transport medium flows cyclically. The heat transport medium of the low temperature system 2 is called a low temperature secondary medium. The low temperature system 2 includes a pump (PL) 22 for flowing a low temperature secondary medium through the flow path 21. The low-temperature system 2 includes a medium heat exchanger 23 disposed so as to be able to exchange heat with the low-temperature end 12a of the MHP device 11. The medium heat exchanger 23 provides heat exchange between the low temperature end 12a of the MHP device 11 and the low temperature secondary medium. The low-temperature system 2 includes an air heat exchanger 24 disposed so as to be able to exchange heat with air. The air heat exchanger 24 provides heat exchange between air as a heat source or heat load and a low temperature secondary medium. The low temperature system 2 includes a blower (FL) 25 that allows air to pass through the air heat exchanger 24.

When the pump 22 is operated, heat exchange between the low temperature secondary medium and the low temperature end 12a of the MHP apparatus 11 is provided. Furthermore, the air blower 25 operates to provide heat exchange between the low temperature end 12a of the MHP device 11 and the air via the low temperature secondary medium.

The high temperature system 3 is a heat transport device for transporting, using or discarding the high temperature provided by the MHP device 11. The high temperature system 3 includes a flow path 31 through which the heat transport medium circulates. The heat transport medium of the high temperature system 3 is called a high temperature secondary medium. The high temperature system 3 includes a pump (PL) 32 for flowing a high temperature secondary medium through the flow path 31. The high temperature system 3 includes a medium heat exchanger 33 disposed so as to be able to exchange heat with the high temperature end 12b of the MHP device 11. The medium heat exchanger 33 provides heat exchange between the high temperature end 12b of the MHP device 11 and the high temperature secondary medium. The high temperature system 3 includes an air heat exchanger 34 disposed so as to be able to exchange heat with air. The air heat exchanger 34 provides heat exchange between air as a heat source or heat load and the high temperature secondary medium. The high temperature system 3 includes a blower (FL) 35 that allows air to pass through the air heat exchanger 34.

When the pump 32 is operated, heat exchange between the high temperature secondary medium and the high temperature end 12b of the MHP device 11 is provided. Furthermore, when the blower 35 is operated, heat exchange between the high temperature end 12b of the MHP device 11 and the air via the high temperature secondary medium is provided.

The air conditioner 1 includes a control device 41 for controlling the MHP device 11, the low temperature system 2, and the high temperature system 3. The air conditioner 1 includes a temperature sensor (SM) 42 as temperature detection means for detecting the temperature Tm of the MHP device 11. The temperature sensor 42 detects the temperature of the MCE element 12 as the temperature Tm of the MHP device 11. The control device 41 receives a sensor signal output from the temperature sensor 42. The control device 41 and the temperature sensor 42 provide a temperature acquisition unit that acquires the temperature Tm of the MHP device 11.

The control device 41 can switch the magnetic field modulation device 13 and the heat transport device 14 between an operating state and a stopped state. The control device 41 can switch the

pumps

22 and 32 and the

blowers

25 and 35 between the operating state and the stopped state.

The control device 41 is an electronic control device (Electronic Control Unit). The control device has at least one arithmetic processing unit (CPU) and at least one memory device (MMR) as a storage medium for storing programs and data. The control device is provided by a microcomputer including a computer-readable storage medium. The storage medium stores a computer-readable program non-temporarily. The storage medium can be provided by a semiconductor memory or a magnetic disk. The controller can be provided by a computer or a set of computer resources linked by a data communication device. The program is executed by the control device to cause the control device to function as the device described in this specification and to cause the control device to perform the method described in this specification. The control device provides various elements. At least some of those elements can be referred to as means for performing the function, and in another aspect, at least some of those elements are blocks that are interpreted as a configuration, or modules that are interpreted as a configuration. Can be called.

The means and / or function provided by the control device can be provided by software recorded in a substantial memory device and a computer that executes the software, software only, hardware only, or a combination thereof. For example, if the controller is provided by a circuit that is hardware, it can be provided by a digital circuit including a number of logic circuits, or an analog circuit.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing an example of a process 180 for starting the MHP device 11. In the following description, a state in which the magnetic field modulation device 13 and the heat transport device 14 are continuously in an operation state is referred to as an operation state of the MHP device 11. A state in which the magnetic field modulation device 13 and the heat transport device 14 are continuously stopped is referred to as a stopped state of the MHP device 11. The operation of shifting the MHP device 11 from the stopped state to the activated state is referred to as activation. The temperature of the MHP device 11 before the MHP device 11 is started, that is, in the stopped state, that is, the temperature of the MCE element 12 is called an initial temperature.

Process 180 is executed by the control device 41. In step 181, the control device 41 determines whether or not preparation for starting the MHP device 11 is requested. For example, when the air conditioner 1 is switched from the stopped state to the activated state by the user, it is determined that preparation for starting the MHP device 11 is required. Further, although the air conditioner 1 is in a continuous operation state, when the MHP device 11 is in a temporary stop state, it is determined that preparation for starting the MHP device 11 is required. For example, there is a request for temporarily suppressing the power consumption of the MHP device 11. If preparation for starting the MHP device 11 is not requested, the process branches to NO. If preparation for starting the MHP device is requested, the process branches to YES.

In step 182, the control device 41 inputs the temperature Tm from the temperature sensor 42. Step 182 provides a temperature acquisition unit that acquires the temperature of the MHP device 11.

In step 183, the control device 41 determines whether or not the temperature of the MHP device 11 is within the startable temperature range. An example of the startable temperature zone is a temperature zone between the lower limit temperature T1 and the upper limit temperature T2. If T1 <Tm <T2 holds, the process branches to YES. If T1 <Tm <T2 is not established, the process branches to NO. The startable temperature zone can be set as a temperature zone in which the MHP device 11 can reach a steady operation state after a delay time allowed without requiring a pre-startup process. For example, the startable temperature range can be set based on experiments. The upper limit temperature T2 can also be called an operable temperature of the MHP device 11.

In step 184, the control device 41 activates the MHP device 11. The control device 41 controls the magnetic field modulation device 13 to the operating state (ON). The control device 41 controls the heat transport device 14 to the operating state (ON). Further, the control device 41 controls the low temperature system 2 and the high temperature system 3 to be in an operating state. Thereby, the air conditioner 1 functions as a heat pump.

When the initial temperature is within the startable temperature range including the high efficiency temperature range, the MHP device 11 can reach a steady operation state after a predetermined delay time. In a steady operation state, the MHP device 11 provides a predetermined temperature to the low temperature end 12a and the high temperature end 12b.

The MHP device 11 provides a low temperature to the low temperature system 2 and a high temperature to the high temperature system 3 in the operating state. When the air conditioner 1 is used for cooling applications, the air heat exchanger 24 is used as a use side heat exchanger, that is, an indoor heat exchanger. The air heat exchanger 24 absorbs heat from indoor air. Indoor air is cooled by the air heat exchanger 24. At this time, the air heat exchanger 34 is used as a non-use side heat exchanger, that is, an outdoor heat exchanger. The air heat exchanger 34 discharges heat to the outdoor air. When the air conditioner 1 is used for heating applications, the air heat exchanger 24 is used as a non-use side heat exchanger, that is, an outdoor heat exchanger. The air heat exchanger 24 absorbs heat from outdoor air. At this time, the air heat exchanger 34 is used as a use side heat exchanger, that is, an indoor heat exchanger. The air heat exchanger 34 discharges heat to indoor air. Indoor air is heated by the air heat exchanger 34. When the air conditioner 1 is used for dehumidification, both the air heat exchanger 24 and the air heat exchanger 34 are used as indoor heat exchangers.

If the process branches from step 183 to NO, the process proceeds to step 185. When the initial temperature is outside the startable temperature range, the MHP device 11 requires a longer delay time until reaching the steady operation state. When the initial temperature is outside the startable temperature range, the MHP device 11 may not be able to reach a steady operation state. In this embodiment, before the MHP device 11 is activated, pre-activation processing is executed. The pre-startup process uses only the low-temperature system 2 or the high-temperature system 3 as a heat source or heat load, and brings the temperature of the MHP device 11 closer to the startable temperature range. Further, in a desirable operation, the start-up pretreatment uses only the low temperature system 2 or the high temperature system 3 as a heat source or a heat load, and puts the temperature of the MHP device 11 in the startable temperature range. Step 183 provides a temperature determination unit that operates the pre-startup processing unit when the temperature Tm of the MHP device 11 is outside the predetermined startable temperature range T1-T2.

In step 185, the control device 41 provides pre-startup processing. In the start-up pretreatment, at least one of the low temperature system 2 or the high temperature system 3 is put in an operating state. Thereby, even if the MHP apparatus 11 becomes high temperature, the temperature of the MHP apparatus 11 is lowered by the low temperature that the low temperature system 2 or the high temperature system 3 has inside. In addition, since the low temperature system 2 or the high temperature system 3 exchanges heat with the indoor air or outdoor air of the vehicle, the temperature of the MHP apparatus 11 is lowered by the low temperature of the air introduced via the low temperature system 2 or the high temperature system 3. It is done.

In step 191, the control device 41 determines whether or not the temperature Tm exceeds the threshold temperature T3. The threshold temperature T3 can also be referred to as a reference temperature. The threshold temperature T3 is a threshold for switching the cooling capacity for cooling the MHP device 11 in stages. If T3 <Tm holds, the process branches to YES. If T3 <Tm does not hold, the process branches to NO.

In step 192, the control device 41 controls only one of the low temperature system 2 and the high temperature system 3 to the operating state. For example, the pump 22 and the blower 25 are controlled to the operation state (ON). It replaces with this and the pump 32 and the air blower 35 may be controlled by the driving | running state (ON). Since the MCE element 12 has a lower high-efficiency temperature zone near the low temperature end 12a, it is desirable to lower the temperature of the low temperature end 12a. Therefore, in step 192, it is desirable to operate the low temperature system 2. Step 192 provides a single system operating section that operates only one of the low temperature system 2 or the high temperature system 3.

In step 193, the control device 41 controls both the low temperature system 2 and the high temperature system 3 to the operating state. Here, the pump 22, the blower 25, the pump 32, and the blower 35 are controlled to the operation state (ON). Step 193 provides both system operation parts for operating both the low temperature system 2 and the high temperature system.

After step 185, the process proceeds to step 184. Therefore, before the MHP apparatus 11 is activated in step 184, the pre-activation process in step 185 brings the temperature Tm of the MHP apparatus 11 close to the activation possible temperature range.

FIG. 3 shows an example of the cooling capacity provided in the pre-startup process. The horizontal axis indicates the temperature Tm, and the vertical axis indicates the cooling capacity and the heating capacity that change the temperature Tm toward the startable temperature range. When the temperature Tm of the MHP device 11 exceeds the upper limit temperature T2 and does not exceed the threshold temperature T3, the MHP device 11 is cooled using only one of the low temperature system 2 and the high temperature system 3. When the temperature Tm of the MHP device 11 exceeds the threshold temperature T3, the MHP device 11 is cooled using both the low temperature system 2 and the high temperature system 3. As the temperature of the MHP device 11 is further away from the startable temperature range, the ability to bring the temperature of the MHP device 11 closer to the startable temperature range is enhanced. Specifically, the cooling capacity for cooling the MHP device 11 is increased as the temperature of the MHP device 11 increases.

The MHP device 11 of the embodiment described above may be in an excessively high temperature state due to its own residual heat, residual heat of other equipment, solar heat, or the like. In such a case, the temperature Tm is outside the startable temperature range. The low temperature system 2 or the high temperature system 3 is an external system for heat transport that is positioned outside the MHP device 11. The low temperature system 2 or the high temperature system 3 may be able to cool the MHP device 11 by the low temperature remaining inside itself or by the air that is the subject of heat exchange. In many cases, the temperature of the air is lower than the temperature of the MHP device 11. Therefore, the MHP device 11 can be cooled by controlling at least one of the low temperature system 2 and the high temperature system 3 to be in an operating state before starting the MHP device 11.

In

steps

192 and 193, the control device 41 operates at least the low temperature system 2. For this reason, the temperature of the magnetocaloric element 12 positioned in the vicinity of the low temperature end 12a is lowered. Since the magnetocaloric element 12 disposed in the vicinity of the low temperature end 12a exhibits a high magnetocaloric effect at a low temperature, the magnetocaloric effect exhibited by the magnetocaloric element 12 can be enhanced. As a result, activation of the MHP device 11 is promoted.

According to this embodiment, before the MHP device 11 is activated, the temperature of the MHP device 11 can be adjusted to a temperature suitable for activation. Thereby, even if the temperature of the MHP apparatus 11 is outside the startable temperature range before starting, the MHP apparatus 11 can be started. In addition, since the pre-startup process is executed when the temperature Tm is outside the startable temperature range T1-T2, unnecessary operation of the external system is suppressed.

According to this embodiment, even if the initial temperature is a temperature far from the startable temperature range, the temperature Tm approaches the startable temperature range by the pre-startup process. Therefore, the MHP apparatus 11 can be started from a wide temperature range.

In the pre-startup process, the temperature Tm is approached toward the startable temperature range. As a result, the delay time until the MHP device 11 reaches the steady operation state from the initial temperature is shortened. Moreover, the pre-startup process may position the temperature Tm within the startable temperature range before the MHP device 11 is started. In this case, the MHP device 11 can reach the steady operation temperature from the initial temperature in a short time. In addition, the startup time expected for the MHP device 11 can be provided.

The startup pre-processing is executed by operating only the external system provided by the low temperature system 2 or the high temperature system 3 without operating the magnetic field modulation device 13 and the heat transport device 14 which are elements of the MHP device 11. Therefore, the MHP device 11 can execute a preparatory operation before startup with less energy consumption.

Second Embodiment This embodiment is a modified example based on the preceding embodiment. In the above embodiment, the low temperature system 2 is operated in Step 192. Instead, in this embodiment, a system suitable for cooling the MHP device 11 is operated.

4, the MHP device 11 has a circulation system 16 for heat transport extending from the low temperature end 12a. The circulation system 16 circulates the heat transport medium cyclically. The heat transport medium of the circulation system 16 can be provided by a primary medium or a secondary medium. The flow in the circulation system 16 is generated by a heat transport device 14 or by a pump operable independently of the magnetic field modulator 13. The MHP apparatus 11 has a circulation system 17 for heat transport extending from the high temperature end 12b. The circulation system 17 flows the heat transport medium in a circulating manner. The heat transport medium of the circulation system 17 can be provided by a primary medium or a secondary medium. The flow in the circulation system 17 is generated by a heat transport device 14 or by a pump operable independently of the magnetic field modulator 13.

The low temperature system 2 includes a medium heat exchanger 223 that provides heat exchange between the circulation system 16 and the low temperature system 2. The high temperature system 3 includes a medium heat exchanger 233 that provides heat exchange between the circulation system 17 and the high temperature system 3.

In this embodiment, the

circulation systems

16 and 17 can cause the heat transport medium to flow in the

circulation systems

16 and 17 without operating the magnetic field modulator 13. For example, the heat transport device 14 can be operated by the heat transport device 14 alone while keeping the magnetic field modulation device 13 in a stopped state, and can provide a flow of the heat transport medium to the

circulation systems

16 and 17.

The air conditioner 1 includes a temperature sensor (SL) 44 that detects the temperature TL of the low-temperature system 2. The temperature TL of the low temperature system 2 is the temperature of the secondary medium in the low temperature system 2 or the temperature of the air passing through the air heat exchanger 24. The air conditioner 1 includes a temperature sensor (SH) 45 that detects the temperature TH of the high-temperature system 3. The temperature TH of the high temperature system 3 is the temperature of the secondary medium in the high temperature system 3 or the temperature of the air passing through the air heat exchanger 34. The control device 241 inputs signals indicating the temperatures TL and TH from the

temperature sensors

44 and 45.

FIG. 5 shows an example of a process 280 for starting the MHP device 11. The same steps as those in the preceding embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In step 282, the control device 241 inputs temperatures Tm, TL, and TH. In this embodiment, pre-startup processing 285 is executed. In step 292, the higher one of the low temperature system 2 and the high temperature system 3 that has a higher effect of cooling the MHP device 11 is used. For example, when TL <TH, the control device 241 operates only the low temperature system 2. When TL> TH, the control device 241 operates only the high temperature system 3. As a result, the MHP device 11 can be efficiently cooled while suppressing power consumption. Therefore, step 282 provides a selective operating unit that operates the lower temperature of the low temperature system 2 and the high temperature system 3.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, step 294 is adopted. In step 294, the control device 241 controls the heat transport device 14 to the operating state (ON). At this time, the magnetic field modulation device 13 is controlled to be stopped (OFF). Thereby, the heat transport medium flows through the

circulation systems

16 and 17. As a result, the MHP device 11 is cooled via the

circulation systems

16 and 17.

According to this embodiment, the control device 241 operates the

external systems

2 and 3 and operates the heat transport device 14 without operating the magnetic field modulation device 13 before starting the thermomagnetic cycle device. By operating the heat transport device 14, temperature adjustment is promoted inside the MHP device 11. Further, the MHP device 11 can be cooled without operating the magnetic field modulation device 13. Therefore, the MHP apparatus 11 can be efficiently cooled while suppressing power consumption.

Third Embodiment This embodiment is a modification in which the preceding embodiment is a basic form. In the above embodiment, the low temperature system 2 or the high temperature system 3 is used for cooling the MHP device 11. In addition, in this embodiment, the low temperature system 2 or the high temperature system 3 is also used for heating the MHP device 11. Further, a heat source cooling device 5 different from the air conditioner 1 is used for temperature adjustment of the MHP device 11.

6 and 7, a heat source cooling device (HTSC) 5 is mounted on the vehicle. The heat source cooling device 5 is a device that cools a heat generating device mounted on a vehicle. The heat generating device is provided by, for example, a motor for driving a vehicle, an electronic circuit, a power conversion device, an internal combustion engine, a secondary battery, a fuel cell, and the like. The heat source cooling device 5 is configured to be able to adjust the temperature of the heat source independently of the low temperature system 2 and the high temperature system 3.

In this embodiment, a connection system 6 is provided between the heat source cooling device 5 and the low temperature system 2 to thermally connect them. The connection system 6 makes it possible to introduce the cooling capacity of the heat source cooling device 5 into the MHP device 11 via the low temperature system 2. Moreover, the connection system 6 can also introduce the heating capability of the heat source cooling device 5 into the MHP apparatus 11 via the low temperature system 2.

The connection system 6 has a path 61 that enables a circulating flow of the heat transport medium between the heat source cooling device 5 and the low-temperature system 2. The path 61 is provided with a bypass path 62 for refluxing the heat transport medium when the heat source cooling device 5 and the low temperature system 2 are separated. The connection system 6 has a pump (PE) 63 for flowing a heat transport medium through the path 61. The pump 63 flows the heat transport medium so as to supply the heat transport medium in the heat source cooling device 5 to the low temperature system 2. The connection system 6 includes a plurality of valves (V1, V2, V3) 64, 65, 66. Each of the plurality of

valves

64, 65, 66 can be provided by a two-position three-way valve. The plurality of

valves

64, 65, 66 provide a switching mechanism that switches the path 61.

The plurality of

valves

64, 65, 66 thermally isolate the heat source cooling device 5 and the low temperature system 2 at the OFF position illustrated in FIG. At this time, the heat transport medium returns to the heat source cooling device 5. The plurality of

valves

64, 65, and 66 thermally connect the heat source cooling device 5 and the low temperature system 2 at the ON position illustrated in FIG. 7. At this time, the heat transport medium of the heat source cooling device 5 is supplied to the low temperature system 2. The control device 341 controls the pump 63 and the plurality of

valves

64, 65, 66 so as to provide a state in which the supply of the heat transport medium from the heat source cooling device 5 to the low temperature system 2 is cut off and a state in which the supply is allowed. .

FIG. 8 shows an example of a process 380 for starting the MHP device 11. In this embodiment, step 385 for pre-startup processing is executed. In step 385, the control device 341 may not only cool the MHP device 11 but also heat it. In step 385, at least one of the low temperature system 2 or the high temperature system 3 is put into an operating state for cooling or heating the MHP device 11. Furthermore, in order to increase the cooling capacity or the heating capacity, the heat source cooling device 5 and the low-temperature system 2 that is the heat medium system are placed in a thermal connection state.

In step 395, the control device 41 determines whether or not the temperature Tm is lower than the lower limit temperature T1. If Tm <T1, the process branches to YES. If Tm <T1 is not established, the process branches to NO.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, step 396 and step 397 are employed. In step 396, the control device 341 determines whether or not the heat source cooling device 5 can be used to cool or heat the MHP device 11. For example, in the operation state in which the temperature of the heat source cooling device 5 is sufficiently lower than the temperature Tm, it can be determined that the heat source cooling device 5 can be used for cooling the MHP device 11. Further, in an operation state in which the temperature of the heat source cooling device 5 is sufficiently higher than the temperature Tm, it can be determined that the heat source cooling device 5 can be used for heating the MHP device 11. If it is available, the process branches to YES. If it is not available, the process branches to NO.

In step 397, the control device 341 executes heat transport from the heat source cooling device 5 to the low temperature system 2. In step 397, the pump 63 is controlled to be in an operating state, and the plurality of

valves

64, 65, 66 are controlled to be in an ON state. This provides the state of the path 61 illustrated in FIG. Step 397 provides a connection controller for thermally connecting the low temperature system 2 and the heat source cooling device 5 by the connection system 6 when the heat source cooling device 5 is available to adjust the temperature of the MHP device 11. .

FIG. 9 shows an example of the cooling capacity and the heating capacity provided in the pre-startup process. When the temperature Tm exceeds the upper limit temperature T2 and does not exceed the threshold temperature T3, the MHP device 11 is cooled using only one of the low temperature system 2 and the high temperature system 3. At this time, the pre-boot process goes through

steps

395, 191, 292, and 294.

When the temperature Tm exceeds the threshold temperature T3, the MHP device 11 is cooled using both the low temperature system 2 and the high temperature system 3. At this time, the pre-startup process goes through

steps

395, 191, 193, 396, and 294. When the temperature Tm exceeds the threshold temperature T3 and the heat source cooling device 5 is available, the cooling capacity increases as illustrated by the broken line. At this time, the pre-activation process goes through

steps

395, 191, 193, 396, 397, and 294.

When the temperature Tm is lower than the lower limit temperature T1, the MHP device 11 is heated using both the low temperature system 2 and the high temperature system 3. At this time, the pre-boot process goes through

steps

395, 193, 396, and 294. When the temperature Tm is lower than the lower limit temperature T1 and the heat source cooling device 5 is available, the heating capacity increases as illustrated by the broken line. At this time, the pre-boot process goes through

steps

395, 193, 396, 397, and 294.

According to this embodiment, in addition to the above-described embodiment, the heat source cooling device 5 is also used to provide temperature control of the thermomagnetic cycle device before startup. Specifically, the MHP device 11 can be cooled using the heat source cooling device 5. Moreover, according to this embodiment, the MHP apparatus 11 can be heated using the

external systems

2 and 3. Furthermore, the MHP apparatus 11 can be heated using the heat source cooling device 5.

Other Embodiments The disclosure in this specification is not limited to the embodiments, and various modifications can be made. The disclosure is not limited to the combinations shown in the embodiments, and can be implemented by various combinations. Embodiments can have additional parts. The portion of the embodiment may be omitted. The parts of the embodiments can be replaced or combined with the parts of the other embodiments. The structure, operation, and effect of the embodiment are merely examples. The technical scope of the disclosure is not limited to the description of the embodiments. Some technical scope of the disclosure is indicated by the description of the scope of claims, and should be understood to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the description of the scope of claims.

For example, in the above embodiment, both the low temperature system 2 and the high temperature system 3 are employed. Instead of this, the low temperature end 12a or the high temperature end 12b of the MHP device 1 and the heat source or heat load may be directly exchanged with heat. In this case, the thermal equipment includes the low temperature system 2 or the high temperature system 3. Even in this configuration, it is possible to execute the pre-startup process of the MHP device 1 using only one of the low temperature system 2 and the high temperature system 3.

In the above embodiment, the vehicle air conditioner 4 is provided by the MHP device 1. Instead of this, a residential air conditioner, a refrigeration apparatus for storing food, and the like may be provided.

In the above embodiment, the low temperature system 2 and the high temperature system 3 are fixed. Instead, the MHP device 11 may be operated so that the low temperature end 12a and the high temperature end 12b are interchanged. For example, the MHP apparatus 11 can be operated so that the system 2 becomes a low-temperature system in the cooling application, and the MHP apparatus 11 can be operated so that the system 2 becomes the high-temperature system in the heating application. Such a reversible operation can be realized by reversing the phases of the magnetic field modulation device 13 and the heat transport device 14.

In the above embodiment, the temperature acquisition unit that acquires the temperature of the MHP device 11 is provided by the temperature sensor 42. Instead of this, a temperature related to the temperature of the MHP device 11 may be substituted as the temperature of the MHP device 11. For example, the temperature of the outside air can be used as the temperature of the MHP device 11. Further, the temperature acquisition unit may be provided by an estimation processing unit that estimates the temperature of the MHP device 11. For example, the temperature of the MHP device 11 can be estimated based on the stop time of the MHP device 11, the temperature of the outside air, the temperature of a device adjacent to the MHP device 11, and the like.

In the above embodiment, an indirect heat exchange system using a heat transport medium is adopted for both the low temperature system 2 and the high temperature system 3. Instead, at least one of the low temperature system 2 or the high temperature system 3 may be provided by a direct heat exchange system in which the low temperature end 12a or the high temperature end 12b and the air directly exchange heat. In this case, in the pre-startup process, the blower that flows air is operated so as to exchange heat with the low temperature end 12a or the high temperature end 12b.

In the above embodiment, the heat transport medium is introduced from the heat source cooling device 5 to the low temperature system 2. Instead of this, a heat transport medium may be introduced from the heat source cooling device 5 to the high temperature system 3 or to both the low temperature system 2 and the high temperature system 3. Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the heat transport medium is directly introduced from the heat source cooling device 5 to the

external systems

2 and 3. Instead, by providing a heat exchanger between the heat source cooling device 5 and the

external systems

2 and 3, both of them may be thermally connected.

In the above embodiment, the pre-startup process is performed when the temperature Tm of the MHP device 11 is outside the startable temperature range. Alternatively, the pre-boot process may be executed when the MHP device 11 is in the boot preparation state. For example, the pre-startup process may be executed continuously while the MHP device 11 is in a stopped state. Alternatively, the pre-start process may be started when a preliminary operation such as opening / closing of a vehicle door is detected to use the vehicle, and the MHP device 11 may be started when the air conditioner 1 is started thereafter.

Claims

A thermomagnetism cycle device (11) that utilizes the magnetocaloric effect of the magnetocaloric element (12) disposed between the low temperature end and the high temperature end;
An external system (2, 3) for heat transport to exchange heat with the cold end or the hot end;
A thermal apparatus comprising: a control device (41, 241, 341) having a pre-startup processing unit (185, 285, 385) for operating the external system before starting the thermomagnetic cycle device.
The external system includes a low temperature system (2) that exchanges heat with the low temperature end, and a high temperature system (3) that exchanges heat with the high temperature end,
2. The thermal device according to claim 1, wherein the startup pretreatment unit (185, 285, 385) operates at least the low-temperature system before starting the thermomagnetism cycle device.
The external system includes a low temperature system (2) that exchanges heat with the low temperature end, and a high temperature system (3) that exchanges heat with the high temperature end,
The startup pretreatment unit (185, 285, 385) has a single system operating unit (192, 292) that operates the low temperature system or the high temperature system before starting the thermomagnetic cycle device. The thermal device according to claim 1 or 2.
The thermal apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the single system operation unit (292) operates a lower one of the low temperature system and the high temperature system.
The said starting pre-processing part has a both-systems operating part (193) which operates both the said low-temperature system and the said high-temperature system, before starting the said thermomagnetism cycle device. 4. The thermal apparatus according to 4.
The startup preprocessing unit
When the temperature (Tm) of the thermomagnetic cycle device exceeds the upper limit temperature (T2) and falls below the reference temperature (T3) higher than the upper limit temperature, the single system operation unit (192, 292) is operated,
The thermal apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the two-system operating unit (193) is operated when the temperature (Tm) of the thermomagnetic cycle device exceeds the reference temperature (T 3).
The thermomagnetic cycle device is:
A magnetic field modulation device (13) for modulating a magnetic field applied to the magnetocaloric element;
A heat transport device (14) for transporting heat that is dissipated or absorbed by the magnetocaloric element;
The said starting pre-processing part (185, 285, 385) operates the said external system, without operating the said magnetic field modulation apparatus, before starting the said thermomagnetic cycle apparatus. Item 7. The thermal device according to any one of Items 6.
The activation pretreatment unit (285, 385) activates the external system without activating the magnetic field modulator and activates the heat transport device before activating the thermomagnetism cycle device. The thermal apparatus according to claim 7.
Furthermore, a heat source cooling device for cooling the heat source and a connection system (6) for thermally connecting the external system,
The startup pre-processing unit (385) thermally connects the external system and the heat source cooling device by the connection system when the heat source cooling device is available to adjust the temperature of the thermomagnetism cycle device. The thermal device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a connection control unit (397) for connection.
The control device includes a temperature determination unit (183) that operates the pre-startup processing unit when the temperature (Tm) of the thermomagnetic cycle device is outside a predetermined startable temperature range (T1-T2). The thermal apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized by comprising: