MAGNETIC COOLING DEVICE AND COOLING CYCLE APPARATUS INCLUDING THE SAME

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application is a continuation application of International Application No. PCT/KR2025/017047, filed Oct. 24, 2025, which claims priority from Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0153813, filed on Nov. 1, 2024 in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference in their entireties.

BACKGROUND

1. Field

The disclosure relates to a magnetic cooling device and a cooling cycle apparatus including the same.

2. Description of Related Art

Generally, among home appliances, refrigerators and air conditioners include a cooling device for supplying cold air to a space that needs to be cooled. For example, a refrigerator includes a cooling device for supplying cold air to a storage compartment that stores food to keep the food fresh for a long period of time. For example, an air conditioner includes a cooling device for supplying cold air to an indoor space to adjust the temperature, humidity and the like to make it comfortable for human activities.

Related art refrigerators and air conditioners use a cooling cycle apparatus that repeatedly compresses and expands a refrigerant. However, the refrigerant used in the operation of related art cooling cycle apparatuses may accelerate global warming. In addition, there is a possibility of explosion due to refrigerant leakage.

Accordingly, there has been a demand for an environmentally friendly cooling device that does not accelerate global warming and has a low risk of explosion. Among the technologies, cooling cycle apparatuses using a magnetocaloric effect have been researched as they implement an environmentally friendly cooling device without using a related art refrigerant.

SUMMARY

One aspect of the disclosure provides a magnetic cooling device with an environmentally friendly feature and a cooling cycle apparatus including the same.

One aspect of the disclosure provides a magnetic cooling device with improved convenience of use and a cooling cycle apparatus including the same.

One aspect of the disclosure provides a magnetic cooling device with a simple structure and a cooling cycle apparatus including the same.

One aspect of the disclosure provides a magnetic cooling device that does not require a pump and a cooling cycle apparatus including the same.

One aspect of the disclosure provides a magnetic cooling device with reduced noise and a cooling cycle apparatus including the same.

One aspect of the disclosure provides a magnetic cooling device with improved heat transfer efficiency and a cooling cycle apparatus including the same.

The technical objectives of the invention are not limited to the above, and other objectives that are not described above will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the above detailed description.

A cooling cycle apparatus according to an embodiment of the disclosure includes: a first heat exchanger configured to discharge heat; a second heat exchanger configured to absorb heat; and a magnetic cooling device disposed between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger and configured to operate by sequentially switching between a first mode and a second mode. The magnetic cooling device includes: a magnetocaloric material configured to allow a heat transfer fluid therethrough; a magnet configured to form a magnetic field around the magnetocaloric material; and a current generating device disposed adjacent to the magnetocaloric material and configured to generate a current. In the first mode, the magnet is configured to approach the magnetocaloric material, and the current generating device may be configured to generate a current in a first direction to cause the heat transfer fluid having an increased temperature to flow toward the first heat exchanger. In the second mode, the magnet is configured to move away from the magnetocaloric material, and the current generating device may be configured to generate a current in a second direction to cause the heat transfer fluid having a decreased temperature to flow toward the second heat exchanger.

A magnetic cooling device according to an embodiment of the disclosure may include: a magnetocaloric material of which a temperature changes based on a magnetic field; a magnet that forms a magnetic field around the magnetocaloric material; and a current generating device provided to generate a current. When the magnet approaches the magnetocaloric material, the current generating device may be configured to generate a current in a first direction to move the heat transfer fluid having an increased temperature in a second direction intersecting the first direction. When the magnet moves away from the magnetocaloric material, the current generating device may be configured to generate a current in a third direction to move the heat transfer fluid having a decreased temperature in a fourth direction intersecting the third direction.

A cooling cycle apparatus according to an embodiment of the disclosure may include: a first heat exchanger configured to discharge heat; a second heat exchanger configured to absorb heat; and a magnetic cooling device disposed between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger. The magnetic cooling device may include: a magnetocaloric material of which a temperature changes based on a magnetic field; and a current generating device configured to generate a current in a first direction in the magnetocaloric material or generate a current in a second direction in the magnetocaloric material. A heat transfer fluid having an increased temperature may flow toward the first heat exchanger by the current in the first direction. A heat transfer fluid having a decreased temperature may flow toward the second heat exchanger by the current in the second direction.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and other aspects, features, and advantages of specific embodiments of the present disclosure will be more apparent from the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a cooling cycle apparatus according to an embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a magnetic cooling device according to an embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a magnetic cooling device according to an embodiment.

FIG. 4 schematically shows a state in which a magnetic cooling device according to an embodiment operates in a first mode.

FIG. 5 schematically shows a state in which a magnetic cooling device according to an embodiment operates in a second mode.

FIG. 6 is a graph showing an example of an operation of a magnetic cooling device according to an embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a table showing an example of an operation of a magnetic cooling device according to an embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a table showing an example of an operation of a magnetic cooling device according to an embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a control block diagram of a cooling cycle apparatus according to an embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a magnetic cooling device according to an embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of a cooling cycle apparatus according to an embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of a magnetic cooling device according to an embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a cooling cycle apparatus including the magnetic cooling device shown in FIG. 12.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a home appliance including a cooling cycle apparatus according to an embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a home appliance including a cooling cycle apparatus according to an embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a side cross-sectional view of a home appliance including a cooling cycle apparatus according to an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various embodiments of the disclosure and terminology used herein are not intended to limit the technical features of the disclosure to the specific embodiments, but rather should be understood to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the concept and scope of the disclosure.

In the description of the drawings, like numbers refer to like elements throughout the description of the drawings.

The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the item unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

The singular forms preceded by “a,” “an,” and “the” corresponding to an item are intended to include the plural forms as well unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In the disclosure, a phrase such as “A or B,” “at least one of A and B,” “at least one of A or B,” “A, B or C,” “at least one of A, B and C,” and “at least one of A, B, or C” may include any one of the items listed together in the phrase, or any possible combination thereof.

The term “and/or” includes any combination of one or a plurality of associated listed items.

The terms as used throughout the specification, such as “˜part”, “˜module”, “˜member”, “˜block”, etc., may be implemented in software and/or hardware, and a plurality of “˜parts”, “˜modules”, “˜members”, or “˜blocks” may be implemented in a single element, or a single “˜part”, “˜module”, “˜member”, or “˜block” may include a plurality of elements.

As used herein, such terms as “1st” and “2nd,” or “first” and “second” may be used to simply distinguish a corresponding component from another, and does not limit the components in other aspect (for example, importance or order).

When one (e.g., a first) element is referred to as being “coupled” or “connected” to another (e.g., a second) element with or without the term “functionally” or “communicatively,” it means that the one element is connected to the other element directly, wirelessly, or via a third element.

It will be understood that when the terms “includes,” “comprises,” “including,” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, figures, steps, operations, components, members, or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, figures, steps, operations, components, members, or combinations thereof.

It will be understood that when a certain component is referred to as being “connected to”, “coupled to”, “supported by” or “in contact with” another component, it may be directly or indirectly connected to, coupled to, supported by, or in contact with the other component. When a component is indirectly connected to, coupled to, supported by, or in contact with another component, it may be connected to, coupled to, supported by, or in contact with the other component through a third component.

It will also be understood that when a component is referred to as being “on” another component, it may be directly on the other component or intervening components may also be present.

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

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a cooling cycle apparatus according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 1, a cooling cycle apparatus 1 may include a first heat exchanger 100 and a second heat exchanger 200. The first heat exchanger 100 may be configured to discharge heat. The second heat exchanger 200 may be configured to absorb heat.

For example, when a home appliance including the cooling cycle apparatus 1 is a refrigerator, the first heat exchanger 100 may discharge heat to an outside of a refrigerator body, and the second heat exchanger 200 may absorb heat from air flowing to storage compartments.

For example, when a home appliance including the cooling cycle apparatus 1 is an air conditioner, the first heat exchanger 100 may be provided in an outdoor unit of the air conditioner to discharge heat to an outside of the outdoor unit, and the second heat exchanger 200 may be provided in an indoor unit to absorb heat from air flowing indoors.

The cooling cycle apparatus 1 may include a magnetic cooling device 300. The magnetic cooling device 300 may be disposed between the first heat exchanger 100 and the second heat exchanger 200.

The magnetic cooling device 300 may be configured to allow a heat transfer fluid to flow therethrough.

The heat transfer fluid may discharge heat and/or absorb heat. The heat transfer fluid may have electrical conductivity. The heat transfer fluid may be configured to allow a current to flow therethrough. For example, the heat transfer fluid may include a liquid metal. For example, the heat transfer fluid may include Galinstan (Ga+In+Sn). As will be described below, the heat transfer fluid may be influenced by a magnetic field and an electric field. The heat transfer fluid may move under an electromagnetic force. The heat transfer fluid may flow under the Lorentz force. A detailed description of this will be provided below

The heat transfer fluid flowing through the magnetic cooling device 300 according to an embodiment of the disclosure may not be a related art refrigerant or antifreeze. Compared to a cooling device (or cooling cycle apparatus) using a related art refrigerant, the magnetic cooling device 300 according to the disclosure may reduce a risk of global warming and/or explosion. The magnetic cooling device 300 according to the disclosure does not include a related art refrigerant and thus is environmentally friendly. In addition, compared to a cooling device (or cooling cycle apparatus) using only antifreeze, heat transfer efficiency of the magnetic cooling device 300 according to the disclosure may be increased. For example, thermal conductivity of the heat transfer fluid may be approximately 30 to 120 times higher than that of antifreeze. However, the disclosure is not limited to the above examples, and a numerical range described above may vary depending on a type of heat transfer fluid.

The magnetic cooling device 300 may heat the heat transfer fluid flowing through the magnetic cooling device 300. For example, the heat transfer fluid heated in the magnetic cooling device 300 may flow toward the first heat exchanger 100. The magnetic cooling device 300 may cool the heat transfer fluid flowing through the magnetic cooling device 300. For example, the heat transfer fluid cooled in the magnetic cooling device 300 may flow toward the second heat exchanger 200.

The magnetic cooling device 300 may utilize a magnetocaloric effect. The magnetic cooling device 300 may increase temperature of the heat transfer fluid using the magnetocaloric effect. The magnetic cooling device 300 may heat the heat transfer fluid flowing through the magnetic cooling device 300 using the magnetocaloric effect. The magnetic cooling device 300 may decrease the temperature of the heat transfer fluid using the magnetocaloric effect. The magnetic cooling device 300 may cool the heat transfer fluid flowing through the magnetic cooling device 300 using the magnetocaloric effect.

The cooling cycle apparatus 1 may include a plurality of flow paths 410, 420, 430, and 440. The plurality of flow paths 410, 420, 430, and 440 may be provided to connect the plurality of heat exchangers 100 and 200 and the magnetic cooling device 300. For example, the heat transfer fluid may flow within (or along) each of the flow paths 410, 420, 430, and 440. For example, a working fluid that has performed heat exchange with the heat transfer fluid may flow within each of the flow paths 410, 420, 430, and 440.

The plurality of flow paths 410, 420, 430, and 440 may include a first flow path 410. The first flow path 410 may be provided to connect the second heat exchanger 200 and the magnetic cooling device 300. The first flow path 410 may be disposed between the second heat exchanger 200 and the magnetic cooling device 300. For example, the first flow path 410 may be provided to guide the heat transfer fluid from the second heat exchanger 200 toward the magnetic cooling device 300.

The plurality of flow paths 410, 420, 430, and 440 may include a second flow path 420. The second flow path 420 may be provided to connect the magnetic cooling device 300 and the first heat exchanger 100. The second flow path 420 may be disposed between the magnetic cooling device 300 and the first heat exchanger 100. For example, the second flow path 420 may be provided to guide the heat transfer fluid from the magnetic cooling device 300 toward the first heat exchanger 100. For example, the heat transfer fluid heated in the magnetic cooling device 300 may flow within the second flow path 420.

The plurality of flow paths 410, 420, 430, and 440 may include a third flow path 430. The third flow path 430 may be provided to connect the first heat exchanger 100 and the magnetic cooling device 300. The third flow path 430 may be disposed between the first heat exchanger 100 and the magnetic cooling device 300. For example, the third flow path 430 may be provided to guide the heat transfer fluid from the first heat exchanger 100 toward the magnetic cooling device 300.

The plurality of flow paths 410, 420, 430, and 440 may include a fourth flow path 440. The fourth flow path 440 may be provided to connect the magnetic cooling device 300 and the second heat exchanger 200. The fourth flow path 440 may be disposed between the magnetic cooling device 300 and the second heat exchanger 200. For example, the fourth flow path 440 may be provided to guide the heat transfer fluid from the magnetic cooling device 300 toward the second heat exchanger 200. For example, the heat transfer fluid cooled in the magnetic cooling device 300 may flow within the fourth flow path 440.

The flow path may be referred to as a pipe, guide, channel, conduit, duct, etc.

In FIG. 1, the cooling cycle apparatus 1 is illustrated as including four flow paths 410, 420, 430, and 440, but a number of flow paths is not limited thereto. For example, some of the plurality of flow paths 410, 420, 430, and 440 may be integrally formed. For example, the cooling cycle apparatus 1 may further include additional flow paths in addition to the plurality of flow paths 410, 420, 430, and 440 shown in FIG. 1. In addition, the ordinal numbers in “first flow path 410”, “second flow path 420”, “third flow path 430”, and “fourth flow path 440” do not limit the configuration thereof.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a magnetic cooling device according to an embodiment. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a magnetic cooling device according to an embodiment.

The terms “first direction d1”, “second direction d2”, “third direction d3”, “fourth direction d4”, “fifth direction d5”, and “sixth direction d6” used in the following description are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms. For example, a direction of current to be described below may be the first direction d1 or the second direction d2. For example, a moving direction of the heat transfer fluid to be described below may be the third direction d3 or the fourth direction d4. For example, a direction of a magnetic field to be described below may be the fifth direction d5 or the sixth direction d6. For example, the direction of the current, the moving direction of the heat transfer fluid, and the direction of the magnetic field may be provided to be perpendicular to each other. In addition, the ordinal numbers in “first direction d1”, “second direction d2”, “third direction d3”, “fourth direction d4”, “fifth direction d5”, and “sixth direction d6” do not limit the configuration thereof.

The magnetic cooling device 300 may include a magnetocaloric material 310. The magnetocaloric material 310 is a material that may utilize the magnetocaloric effect. The magnetocaloric effect refers to an effect in which, in response to application of a magnetic field to a magnetic material, magnetic moments within the magnetic material align in the direction of the magnetic field, and a temperature of the magnetic material changes. The magnetocaloric material 310 may change temperature as magnetic moments within the magnetocaloric material 310 align in response to the application of a magnetic field. The magnetocaloric material 310 may change temperature based on the magnetic field applied thereto.

For example, the magnetocaloric material 310 may include materials having magnetocaloric effects such as gadolinium, iron-based alloys, or rare earth metal alloys. However, the disclosure is not limited to the above examples, and the magnetocaloric material 310 may include various materials having magnetocaloric effects.

The magnetic cooling device 300 may change a temperature of a heat transfer fluid by causing the heat transfer fluid to flow through a space (or flow path) in which the magnetocaloric material 310 is disposed. The heat transfer fluid may be provided to flow through the magnetocaloric material 310. As the heat transfer fluid exchanges heat with the magnetocaloric material 310, the temperature of the heat transfer fluid may change.

The magnetic cooling device 300 may operate in a first mode (M1, see FIGS. 4 and 6) or a second mode (M2, see FIGS. 5 and 6). The magnetic cooling device 300 may be provided to operate by sequentially switching between the first mode M1 and the second mode M2. When the magnetic cooling device 300 operates in the first mode M1, the magnetic cooling device 300 may move the heated heat transfer fluid toward the first heat exchanger 100. While the magnetic cooling device 300 operates in the first mode M1, the magnetic cooling device 300 may cause the heat transfer fluid with increased temperature to flow in the third direction d3. When the magnetic cooling device 300 operates in the second mode M2, the magnetic cooling device 300 may move the cooled heat transfer fluid toward the second heat exchanger 200. While the magnetic cooling device 300 operates in the second mode M2, the magnetic cooling device 300 may cause the heat transfer fluid with decreased temperature to flow in the fourth direction d4.

For example, when a magnetic field is applied to the magnetocaloric material 310, the temperature of the magnetocaloric material 310 may rise. While the temperature of the magnetocaloric material 310 rises, the heat transfer fluid may receive heat from the magnetocaloric material 310 by passing through the magnetocaloric material 310. As the temperature of the magnetocaloric material 310 rises, the magnetocaloric material 310 may heat the heat transfer fluid flowing through the magnetocaloric material 310. Accordingly, the temperature of the heat transfer fluid flowing through the magnetocaloric material 310 may rise. The heat transfer fluid with increased temperature may flow toward the first heat exchanger 100. The heat transfer fluid with increased temperature may move along the third direction d3. The above example may be a description of an example of the first mode M1 of the magnetic cooling device 300.

For example, as a magnetic field applied to the magnetocaloric material 310 is gradually removed, the temperature of the magnetocaloric material 310 may fall. Since the magnetocaloric material 310 has released heat, the temperature of the magnetocaloric material 310 may drop below the temperature of the magnetocaloric material 310 before the magnetic field was applied to the magnetocaloric material 310. That is, the magnetocaloric material 310 may have a temperature lower than an initial temperature of the magnetocaloric material 310. While the temperature of the magnetocaloric material 310 falls, the heat transfer fluid may release heat to the magnetocaloric material 310 by passing through the magnetocaloric material 310. As the temperature of the magnetocaloric material 310 falls, the magnetocaloric material 310 may cool the heat transfer fluid flowing through the magnetocaloric material 310. Accordingly, the temperature of the heat transfer fluid may fall. The heat transfer fluid with decreased temperature may flow toward the second heat exchanger 200. The heat transfer fluid with decreased temperature may move along the fourth direction d4. The above example may be a description of an example of the second mode M2 of the magnetic cooling device 300.

The magnetocaloric material 310 may include a plurality of magnetocaloric blocks 3101, 3102, 3103, 3104, 3105, and 3106. Each of the plurality of magnetocaloric blocks 3101, 3102, 3103, 3104, 3105, and 3106 may include a material that may utilize the magnetocaloric effect. Each of the plurality of magnetocaloric blocks 3101, 3102, 3103, 3104, 3105, and 3106 may have a porous structure.

The plurality of magnetocaloric blocks 3101, 3102, 3103, 3104, 3105, and 3106 may have different Curie temperatures. The plurality of magnetocaloric blocks 3101, 3102, 3103, 3104, 3105, and 3106 having different Curie temperatures may be heated or cooled to different temperatures according to the application or removal of the magnetic field. That is, as the magnetocaloric material 310 includes the plurality of magnetocaloric blocks 3101, 3102, 3103, 3104, 3105, and 3106 having different Curie temperatures, a temperature range of the magnetocaloric material 310 may be widened. A temperature range of the heat transfer fluid flowing through the magnetocaloric material 310 may also be widened. As a result, the magnetocaloric effect of the magnetocaloric material 310 may be enhanced.

The plurality of magnetocaloric blocks 3101, 3102, 3103, 3104, 3105, and 3106 may be arranged with gaps therebetween. This is because when magnetocaloric blocks having different Curie temperatures contact each other, heat loss due to conduction may occur. For example, the plurality of magnetocaloric blocks 3101, 3102, 3103, 3104, 3105, and 3106 may be arranged along the moving direction of the heat transfer fluid (e.g., the third direction d3 or the fourth direction d4). For example, the plurality of magnetocaloric blocks 3101, 3102, 3103, 3104, 3105, and 3106 may be arranged with a defined gap(s) therebetween. However, the disclosure is not limited to the above examples, and gaps between the plurality of magnetocaloric blocks 3101, 3102, 3103, 3104, 3105, and 3106 may not be constant.

The magnetic cooling device 300 may include a case 340. The case 340 may be provided to accommodate the magnetocaloric material 310. The case 340 may form an internal space therein, and the magnetocaloric material 310 may be disposed in the internal space of the case 340. The heat transfer fluid may flow in the internal space of the case 340.

The magnetic cooling device 300 may include a first inlet 341. The first inlet 341 may be formed on a first side of the case 340. For example, the first inlet 341 may be formed on a side of the case 340 facing the second heat exchanger 200. The first inlet 341 may be arranged for a heat transfer fluid to flow in from the second heat exchanger 200. The first inlet 341 may communicate with the internal space of the case 340. The heat transfer fluid introduced through the first inlet 341 may pass through the magnetocaloric material 310. For example, the first inlet 341 may be connected to the first flow path 410 (see FIG. 1).

The magnetic cooling device 300 may include a first outlet 342. The first outlet 342 may be formed on a second side of the case 340. For example, the first outlet 342 may be formed on a side of the case 340 facing the first heat exchanger 100. The first outlet 342 may be provided to discharge a heat transfer fluid toward the first heat exchanger 100. The first outlet 342 may communicate with the internal space of the case 340. The heat transfer fluid that has passed through the magnetocaloric material 310 may be discharged through the first outlet 342. For example, a heat transfer fluid heated by the magnetocaloric material 310 with increased temperature may be discharged through the first outlet 342. For example, the first outlet 342 may be connected to the second flow path 420 (see FIG. 1).

The magnetic cooling device 300 may include a second inlet 343. The second inlet 343 may be formed on the second side of the case 340. For example, the second inlet 343 may be formed on the side of the case 340 facing the first heat exchanger 100. The second inlet 343 may be arranged for a heat transfer fluid to flow in from the first heat exchanger 100. The second inlet 343 may communicate with the internal space of the case 340. The heat transfer fluid introduced through the second inlet 343 may pass through the magnetocaloric material 310. For example, the second inlet 343 may be connected to the third flow path 430 (see FIG. 1).

The magnetic cooling device 300 may include a second outlet 344. The second outlet 344 may be formed on the first side of the case 340. For example, the second outlet 344 may be formed on the side of the case 340 facing the second heat exchanger 200. The second outlet 344 may be provided to discharge a heat transfer fluid toward the second heat exchanger 200. The second outlet 344 may communicate with the internal space of the case 340. The heat transfer fluid that has passed through the magnetocaloric material 310 may be discharged through the second outlet 344. For example, a heat transfer fluid cooled by the magnetocaloric material 310 with decreased temperature may be discharged through the second outlet 344. For example, the second outlet 344 may be connected to the fourth flow path 440 (see FIG. 1).

The magnetic cooling device 300 may include a magnetocaloric module 301.

The magnetocaloric module 301 may include the magnetocaloric material 310 and may heat or cool the heat transfer fluid passing through the magnetocaloric module 301. A magnetic field may or may not be applied to the magnetocaloric module 301, and accordingly, the heat transfer fluid passing through the magnetocaloric module 301 may be heated or cooled. The magnetocaloric module 301 may operate in the first mode M1 or the second mode M2. The magnetocaloric module 301 may be referred to as a magnetic cooling unit, a magnetic heating unit, a magnetic cooling module, a magnetic heating module, and the like.

The magnetocaloric module 301 may include a case 340 that accommodates the magnetocaloric material 310, the first inlet 341, the first outlet 342, the second inlet 343, and the second outlet 344.

In FIGS. 2 and 3, the magnetic cooling device 300 is illustrated as including a single magnetocaloric module 301, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. The magnetic cooling device 300 may include a plurality of magnetocaloric modules 301 (see FIGS. 11 to 13). A detailed description of this will be provided below.

The magnetic cooling device 300 may include a magnet 320 (see FIG. 2). The magnet 320 may be provided to form a magnetic field. The magnet 320 may or may not apply a magnetic field to the magnetocaloric module 301. The magnet 320 may or may not apply a magnetic field to the magnetocaloric material 310. The magnetocaloric material 310 may be provided to be exposed or not exposed to the magnetic field formed by the magnet 320. When the magnetocaloric material 310 is subjected to a magnetic field from the magnet 320, the temperature of the magnetocaloric material 310 may increase. When the magnetocaloric material 310 is not subjected to a magnetic field from the magnet 320, the temperature of the magnetocaloric material 310 may decrease.

The magnet 320 may be configured to be movable and/or rotatable relative to the magnetocaloric material 310 to approach the magnetocaloric material 310 or move away from the magnetocaloric material 310.

For example, the magnet 320 may be provided to be switchable from a first position P1 to a second position P2 or from the second position P2 to the first position P1. For example, the magnet 320 may be provided to be movable between the first position P1 and the second position P2. For example, the magnet 320 may be provided to be rotatable between the first position P1 and the second position P2.

For example, when the magnet 320 is in the first position P1, the magnet 320 may apply a magnetic field to the magnetocaloric material 310 (“a magnetic field is ON”). When the magnet 320 is in the first position P1, the magnetocaloric material 310 may be influenced by the magnetic field. When the magnet 320 is in the first position P1, the temperature of the magnetocaloric material 310 may rise.

For example, when the magnet 320 is in the second position P2, the magnet 320 may not apply a magnetic field to the magnetocaloric material 310 (“a magnetic field is OFF”). When the magnet 320 is in the second position P2, the magnetocaloric material 310 may not be influenced by the magnetic field. The second position P2 may be a position deviated from the first position P1. When the magnet 320 is in the second position P2, the temperature of the magnetocaloric material 310 may fall.

The magnet 320 may be movable to increase or decrease the temperature of the heat transfer fluid flowing through the magnetocaloric material 310.

The magnet 320 may be provided to approach the magnetocaloric material 310 to increase the temperature of the heat transfer fluid flowing through the magnetocaloric material 310. For example, the magnet 320 may move from the second position P2 toward the first position P1 to increase the temperature of the heat transfer fluid.

The magnet 320 may be provided to gradually move away from the magnetocaloric material 310 to decrease the temperature of the heat transfer fluid flowing through the magnetocaloric material 310. For example, the magnet 320 may move from the first position P1 toward the second position P2 to decrease the temperature of the heat transfer fluid.

The magnet 320 may include a first pole portion 321 and a second pole portion 322 having a polarity opposite to that of the first pole portion 321. The direction of the magnetic field may be a direction from the first pole portion 321 toward the second pole portion 322 (e.g., the fifth direction d5) or a direction from the second pole portion 322 toward the first pole portion 321 (e.g., the sixth direction d6).

The magnetic cooling device 300 may include a current generating device 330. The current generating device 330 may be disposed adjacent to the magnetocaloric material 310. The current generating device 330 may generate a current. The current generating device 330 may move charges within the heat transfer fluid. The current may be generated using the heat transfer fluid as a medium.

The current generating device 330 may move the heat transfer fluid by generating a current. The heat transfer fluid may have electrical conductivity, and the current generating device 330 may cause the Lorentz force to act on the heat transfer fluid. Specifically, while the heat transfer fluid is influenced by the magnetic field (e.g., when a magnetic flux density is not 0 T), the current generating device 330 may generate a current, and the heat transfer fluid may move under the Lorentz force. In addition, depending on the direction of the current generated by the current generating device 330, the moving direction of the heat transfer fluid may be determined. The current generating device 330 may generate a current in the first direction d1 through the magnetocaloric material 310 or generate a current in the second direction d2 through the magnetocaloric material 310. For example, when the current generating device 330 generates a current flowing in the first direction d1, the heat transfer fluid may move toward the first heat exchanger 100. For example, when the current generating device 330 generates a current flowing in the second direction d2, the heat transfer fluid may move toward the second heat exchanger 200. A detailed description of this will be provided below (see FIGS. 4 and 5).

For example, the current generating device 330 may include at least one electrode 331. The current generating device 330 may be provided to apply a voltage to the at least one electrode 331. A current may be generated as a voltage is applied to the at least one electrode 331.

The at least one electrode 331 may be disposed to correspond to a gap(s) formed between the plurality of magnetocaloric blocks 3101, 3102, 3103, 3104, 3105, and 3106. For example, the at least one electrode 331 may be disposed to correspond to the gap(s). For example, the at least one electrode 331 may be disposed inside the case 340.

The heat transfer fluid may experience greater flow resistance in the magnetocaloric blocks 3101, 3102, 3103, 3104, 3105, or 3106 than in the gap(s). The flow rate of the heat transfer fluid in the gap(s) may be greater than the flow rate of the heat transfer fluid in the magnetocaloric blocks 3101, 3102, 3103, 3104, 3105, or 3106. That is, the heat transfer fluid, which is subject to an electromagnetic force (e.g., Lorentz force), may be more concentrated in the gap(s) than in the magnetocaloric blocks 3101, 3102, 3103, 3104, 3105, or 3106. Thus, when the at least one electrode 331 is disposed to correspond to the gap(s), the current may flow more smoothly, and the heat transfer fluid may be subjected to a greater electromagnetic force, compared to when the at least one electrode 331 is disposed to correspond to the magnetocaloric blocks 3101, 3102, 3103, 3104, 3105, or 3106. In addition, as the heat transfer fluid passes through the magnetocaloric blocks 3101, 3102, 3103, 3104, 3105, or 3106, the flow of the heat transfer fluid may decrease but the flow may be become smooth while passing through the gap(s). Ultimately, by disposing the at least one electrode 331 to correspond to the gap(s), the flow reduction of the heat transfer fluid may be prevented and/or mitigated, and the heat transfer performance of the heat transfer fluid may also be improved.

The current generating device 330 may include a first electrode 3311 and a second electrode 3312 spaced apart from the first electrode 3311. The second electrode 3312 may be spaced apart from the first electrode 3311 in the second direction d2. The first electrode 3311 may be spaced apart from the second electrode 3312 in the first direction d1. The second electrode 3312 may be spaced apart from the first electrode 3311 with the gap(s) therebetween. That is, the gap(s) may be disposed between the first electrode 3311 and the second electrode 3312.

The first electrode 3311 may be provided as a plurality of first electrodes 3311. The plurality of first electrodes 3311 may be arranged approximately along the moving direction of the heat transfer fluid (e.g., the third direction d3 or the fourth direction d4). The plurality of first electrodes 3311 may be disposed spaced apart approximately along the moving direction of the heat transfer fluid (e.g., the third direction d3 or the fourth direction d4).

The second electrode 3312 may be provided as a plurality of second electrode 3312. The plurality of second electrodes 3312 may be arranged approximately along the moving direction of the heat transfer fluid (e.g., the third direction d3 or the fourth direction d4). The plurality of second electrodes 3312 may be disposed spaced apart approximately along the moving direction of the heat transfer fluid (e.g., the third direction d3 or the fourth direction d4).

For example, each of the plurality of first electrodes 3311 may be disposed to correspond to each of the plurality of second electrodes 3312.

For example, when a first voltage is applied to the first electrode 3311 and a second voltage higher than the first voltage is applied to the second electrode 3312, a current flowing from the second electrode 3312 to the first electrode 3311 may be generated. That is, a current flowing in the first direction d1 may be generated (see FIG. 4). For example, when a first voltage is applied to the first electrode 3311 and a second voltage lower than the first voltage is applied to the second electrode 3312, a current flowing from the first electrode 3311 to the second electrode 3312 may be generated. That is, a current flowing in the second direction d2 may be generated (see FIG. 5).

The current generating device 330 may include a third electrode 3313. The third electrode 3313 may be provided between the first inlet 341 and the second outlet 344. The third electrode 3313 may be disposed adjacent to one side of the case 340. The third electrode 3313 may be disposed between a fourth electrode 3314 to be described below and a fifth electrode 3315 to be described below.

The current generating device 330 may include the fourth electrode 3314. The fourth electrode 3314 may be spaced apart from the third electrode 3313. The fourth electrode 3314 may be spaced apart from the third electrode 3313 with the first inlet 341 therebetween. For example, the fourth electrode 3314 may be spaced apart from the third electrode 3313 in the second direction d2.

The current generating device 330 may include the fifth electrode 3315. The fifth electrode 3315 may be spaced apart from the third electrode 3313. The fifth electrode 3315 may be spaced apart from the third electrode 3313 with the second outlet 344 therebetween. For example, the fifth electrode 3315 may be spaced apart from the third electrode 3313 in the first direction d1.

For example, when a third voltage is applied to the third electrode 3313 and a fourth voltage higher than the third voltage is applied to the fourth electrode 3314, a current flowing from the fourth electrode 3314 to the third electrode 3313 may be generated. That is, a current flowing in the first direction d1 may be generated (see FIG. 4). For example, when a third voltage is applied to the third electrode 3313 and a fifth voltage higher than the third voltage is applied to the fifth electrode 3315, a current flowing from the fifth electrode 3315 to the third electrode 3313 may be generated. That is, a current flowing in the second direction d2 may be generated (see FIG. 5).

The current generating device 330 may include a sixth electrode 3316. The sixth electrode 3316 may be provided between the second inlet 343 and the first outlet 342. The sixth electrode 3316 may be disposed adjacent to the second side of the case 340. The sixth electrode 3316 may be disposed between a seventh electrode 3317 to be described below and an eighth electrode 3318 to be described below.

The current generating device 330 may include a seventh electrode 3317. The seventh electrode 3317 may be spaced apart from the sixth electrode 3316. The seventh electrode 3317 may be spaced apart from the sixth electrode 3316 with the first outlet 342 therebetween. For example, the seventh electrode 3317 may be spaced apart from the sixth electrode 3316 in the second direction d2.

The current generating device 330 may include an eighth electrode 3318. The eighth electrode 3318 may be spaced apart from the sixth electrode 3316. The eighth electrode 3318 may be spaced apart from the sixth electrode 3316 with the second inlet 343 therebetween. For example, the eighth electrode 3318 may be spaced apart from the sixth electrode 3316 in the first direction d1.

For example, when a sixth voltage is applied to the sixth electrode 3316 and a seventh voltage higher than the sixth voltage is applied to the seventh electrode 3317, a current flowing from the seventh electrode 3317 to the sixth electrode 3316 may be generated. That is, a current flowing in the first direction d1 may be generated (see FIG. 4). For example, when a sixth voltage is applied to the sixth electrode 3316 and an eighth voltage higher than the sixth voltage is applied to the eighth electrode 3318, a current flowing from the eighth electrode 3318 to the sixth electrode 3316 may be generated. That is, a current flowing in the second direction d2 may be generated (see FIG. 5).

The ordinal numbers in “first electrode 3311”, “second electrode 3312”, “third electrode 3313”, “fourth electrode 3314”, “fifth electrode 3315”, “sixth electrode 3316”, “seventh electrode 3317”, and “eighth electrode 3318” do not limit the configuration thereof.

FIG. 4 schematically shows a state in which a magnetic cooling device according to an embodiment operates in a first mode. FIG. 5 schematically shows a state in which a magnetic cooling device according to an embodiment operates in a second mode.

Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the first mode M1 and the second mode M2 of the magnetic cooling device 300 will be described. In FIGS. 4 and 5, as an example, a magnetic field B is illustrated as being directed into the ground (⊗).

The magnetic cooling device 300 may operate in the first mode (M1, see FIG. 4) or the second mode (M2, see FIG. 5). The magnetic cooling device 300 may be provided to operate by sequentially switching between the first mode M1 and the second mode M2.

Referring to FIG. 4, when the magnetic cooling device 300 operates in the first mode M1, the magnetic cooling device 300 may heat the heat transfer fluid and move the heat transfer fluid with increased temperature toward the first heat exchanger 100.

While the magnetic cooling device 300 operates in the first mode M1, the magnet 320 may move and/or rotate to increase the temperature of the heat transfer fluid flowing through the magnetocaloric material 310. While the magnetic cooling device 300 operates in the first mode M1, the magnet 320 may approach the magnetocaloric material 310. For example, during the operation of the magnetic cooling device 300 in the first mode M1, the magnet 320 may be in a state of approaching the magnetocaloric material 310 or in a state of having completely approached the magnetocaloric material 310. For example, the magnet 320 may move and/or rotate to switch from the second position P2 to the first position P1. For example, the magnetic field may switch from OFF to ON. As the magnet 320 approaches the magnetocaloric material 310, strength of the magnetic field applied to the magnetocaloric material 310 may increase. A magnetic flux density of the magnetic field applied to the magnetocaloric material 310 may increase. Thus, the temperature of the magnetocaloric material 310 may rise. The temperature of the heat transfer fluid may rise while passing through the magnetocaloric material 310. That is, the heat transfer fluid may be heated.

While the magnetic cooling device 300 operates in the first mode M1, the current generating device 330 may generate a current in the first direction d1. The current generating device 330 may generate a current in the first direction d1 to cause the heat transfer fluid with increased temperature to flow toward the first heat exchanger 100. The current flowing in the first direction d1 may be collectively referred to as a first current I1. The first direction d1 may be perpendicular to a direction of the magnetic field B formed by the magnet 320. The first direction d1 may be perpendicular to the moving direction of the heat transfer fluid (e.g., the third direction d3, the fourth direction d4).

For example, while the magnetic cooling device 300 operates in the first mode M1, the current generating device 330 may generate a current (i.e., the first current I1) flowing from the second electrode 3312 to the first electrode 3311. Thus, the heat transfer fluid may flow overall toward the first heat exchanger 100.

For example, while the magnetic cooling device 300 operates in the first mode M1, the current generating device 330 may generate a current (i.e., the first current I1) flowing from the fourth electrode 3314 to the third electrode 3313. Thus, the heat transfer fluid may be more smoothly introduced through the first inlet 341.

For example, while the magnetic cooling device 300 operates in the first mode M1, the current generating device 330 may generate a current (i.e., the first current I1) flowing from the seventh electrode 3317 to the sixth electrode 3316. Thus, the heat transfer fluid may be more smoothly discharged through the first outlet 342.

While the magnetic cooling device 300 operates in the first mode M1, the magnetocaloric material 310 may be influenced by the magnetic field B from the magnet 320 (with increasing magnetic field strength), and the current generating device 330 may generate the first current I1. As a result, the heat transfer fluid with increased temperature may be subjected to the Lorentz force. The heat transfer fluid with increased temperature may flow toward the first heat exchanger 100. The heat transfer fluid with increased temperature may be caused to flow toward the first heat exchanger 100 by the first current I1. The heat transfer fluid with increased temperature may flow in the third direction d3 (see the solid arrow F in FIG. 4). The third direction d3 may include a direction toward the first heat exchanger 100. The heat transfer fluid with increased temperature may flow along a first internal flow path 351. The first internal flow path 351 may be a flow path extending from the first inlet 341 to the first outlet 342. The first internal flow path 351 may include a flow path formed by the first inlet 341, a flow path formed by the first outlet 342, and a flow path formed by the case 340.

Referring to FIG. 5, when the magnetic cooling device 300 operates in the second mode M2, the magnetic cooling device 300 may cool a heat transfer fluid and move the cooled heat transfer fluid toward the second heat exchanger 200.

While the magnetic cooling device 300 operates in the second mode M2, the magnet 320 may move and/or rotate to decrease the temperature of the heat transfer fluid flowing through the magnetocaloric material 310. While the magnetic cooling device 300 operates in the second mode M2, the magnet 320 may gradually move away from the magnetocaloric material 310. For example, during the operation of the magnetic cooling device 300 in the second mode M2, the magnet 320 may be in a state before completely moving away from the magnetocaloric material 310. That is, the magnet 320 may be in a state before being completely positioned at the second position P2. For example, the magnet 320 may move and/or rotate to switch from the first position P1 to the second position P2. For example, the magnetic field may switch from ON to OFF. As the magnet 320 approaches the magnetocaloric material 310 and then gradually moves away from the magnetocaloric material 310, the strength of the magnetic field applied to the magnetocaloric material 310 may decrease. The magnetic flux density of the magnetic field applied to the magnetocaloric material 310 may decrease. However, while the magnetic cooling device 300 operates in the second mode M2, the magnetic flux density of the magnetic field may not be 0 T. That is, even while the magnetic cooling device 300 operates in the second mode M2, the magnetocaloric material 310 may be influenced by the magnetic field. Thus, the temperature of the magnetocaloric material 310 may fall. The temperature of the heat transfer fluid may fall while passing through the magnetocaloric material 310. That is, the heat transfer fluid may be cooled.

While the magnetic cooling device 300 operates in the second mode M2, the current generating device 330 may generate a current in the second direction d2. The current generating device 330 may generate a current in the second direction d2 to cause the heat transfer fluid with decreased temperature to flow toward the second heat exchanger 200. The current flowing in the second direction d2 may be collectively referred to as a second current I2. For example, the second direction d2 may be opposite to the first direction d1. The second direction d2 may be perpendicular to the direction of the magnetic field B formed by the magnet 320. The second direction d2 may be perpendicular to the moving direction of the heat transfer fluid (e.g., the third direction d3, the fourth direction d4).

For example, while the magnetic cooling device 300 operates in the second mode M2, the current generating device 330 may generate a current (i.e., the second current I2) flowing from the first electrode 3311 to the second electrode 3312. Thus, the heat transfer fluid may flow overall toward the second heat exchanger 200.

For example, while the magnetic cooling device 300 operates in the second mode M2, the current generating device 330 may generate a current (i.e., the second current I2) flowing from the eighth electrode 3318 to the sixth electrode 3316. Thus, the heat transfer fluid may be more smoothly introduced through the second inlet 343.

For example, while the magnetic cooling device 300 operates in the second mode M2, the current generating device 330 may generate a current (i.e., the second current I2) flowing from the fifth electrode 3315 to the third electrode 3313. Thus, the heat transfer fluid may be more smoothly discharged through the second outlet 344.

While the magnetic cooling device 300 operates in the second mode M2, the magnetocaloric material 310 may be influenced by the magnetic field B from the magnet 320 (with decreasing magnetic field strength), and the current generating device 330 may generate the second current I2. As a result, the heat transfer fluid with decreased temperature may be subjected to the Lorentz force. The heat transfer fluid with decreased temperature may flow toward the second heat exchanger 200. The heat transfer fluid with decreased temperature may be caused to flow toward the second heat exchanger 200 by the second current I2. The heat transfer fluid with decreased temperature may flow in the fourth direction d4 (see the solid arrow F in FIG. 5). The fourth direction d4 may include a direction toward the second heat exchanger 200. For example, the fourth direction d4 may be opposite to the third direction d3. The heat transfer fluid with decreased temperature may flow along a second internal flow path 352. The second internal flow path 352 may be a flow path extending from the second inlet 343 to the second outlet 344. The second internal flow path 352 may include a flow path formed by the second inlet 343, a flow path formed by the second outlet 344, and a flow path formed by the case 340.

Generally, a related art cooling cycle apparatus includes a pump that pumps the heat transfer fluid such that the heat transfer fluid flows to each component of the cooling cycle apparatus. In addition, in order to achieve efficient flow of the heat transfer fluid and effective heat transfer performance in the cooling cycle apparatus, precise control of the pump is required. However, when controlling the pump, friction and wear may occur in the pump, shortening a service life of the pump, and frequent failures and noise may occur. Since the related art cooling cycle apparatus needs to include a pump, a structure of the cooling cycle apparatus may become complex and its size may increase. In addition, due to a load on the pump, issues such as pressure loss may occur and the efficiency of the cooling cycle may be lowered.

In contrast, the cooling cycle apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the disclosure does not require a pump. The cooling cycle apparatus 1 may effectively move the heat transfer fluid using an electromagnetic force (e.g., Lorentz force) without a pump. Since the cooling cycle apparatus 1 does not include a pump, noise may be reduced. The cooling cycle apparatus 1 may be provided with a simple structure, enabling miniaturization. In addition, factors that lower the efficiency of cooling cycle may be eliminated. As a result, the cooling cycle apparatus 1 may enhance user convenience.

FIG. 6 is a graph showing an example of an operation of a magnetic cooling device according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 6, while the magnetic cooling device 300 operates in the first mode M1, the magnetic flux density of the magnetic field applied to the magnetocaloric material 310 may increase as the magnet 320 approaches the magnetocaloric material 310. Thus, the temperature of the magnetocaloric material 310 rises, and the temperature of the heat transfer fluid passing through the magnetocaloric material 310 may rise. In addition, while the magnetic cooling device 300 operates in the first mode M1, the current generating device 330 may generate the first current I1. Thus, the heat transfer fluid with increased temperature may be caused to move toward the first heat exchanger 100 by the Lorentz force (see FIG. 4).

Referring to FIG. 6, while the magnetic cooling device 300 operates in the second mode M2, the magnetic flux density of the magnetic field applied to the magnetocaloric material 310 may decrease as the magnet 320 that has approached the magnetocaloric material 310 gradually moves away from the magnetocaloric material 320. Thus, the temperature of the magnetocaloric material 310 falls, and the temperature of the heat transfer fluid passing through the magnetocaloric material 310 may fall. In addition, while the magnetic cooling device 300 operates in the second mode M2, the current generating device 330 may generate the second current I2. That is, before the magnet 320 completely moves away from the magnetocaloric material 310 (i.e., before the magnetic field applied to the magnetocaloric material 310 is completely removed), while the magnetocaloric material 310 is influenced by the magnetic field from the magnet 320, the current generating device 330 may generate the second current I2. Thus, the heat transfer fluid with decreased temperature may be caused to move toward the second heat exchanger 200 by the Lorentz force (see FIG. 5).

The graph shown in FIG. 6 illustrates an example of the operation of the magnetic cooling device 300, and it should be understood that the magnetic cooling device 300 may operate differently from what is shown in FIG. 6.

FIG. 7 is a table showing an example of an operation of a magnetic cooling device according to an embodiment.

While the magnet 320 is approaching the magnetocaloric material 310, the magnetic field may switch from OFF to ON. The magnetic field being OFF may include a state in which the magnetic field is not applied to the magnetocaloric material 310. The magnetic field being ON may include a state in which the magnetic field is applied to the magnetocaloric material 310. As the magnetic field switches from OFF to ON, the temperature of the heat transfer fluid may rise. When the magnet 320 approaches the magnetocaloric material 310, the current generating device 330 may operate to generate the first current I1. The current generating device 330 may generate the first current I1 to move the heat transfer fluid with increased temperature toward the first heat exchanger 100. For example, while the magnetic cooling device 300 operates in the first mode M1, the magnet 320 may move from the second position P2 toward the first position P1, and the current generating device 330 may generate the first current I1.

While the magnet 320 is moving away from the magnetocaloric material 310, the magnetic field may switch from ON to OFF. As the magnetic field switches from ON to OFF, the temperature of the heat transfer fluid may fall. Before the magnet 320 completely moves away from the magnetocaloric material 310, the current generating device 330 may operate to generate the second current I2. The current generating device 330 may generate the second current I2 to move the heat transfer fluid with decreased temperature toward the second heat exchanger 200. For example, while the magnetic cooling device 300 operates in the second mode M2, the magnet 320 may move from the first position P1 toward the second position P2, and the current generating device 330 may generate the second current I2.

FIG. 8 is a table showing an example of an operation of a magnetic cooling device according to an embodiment.

When the magnet 320 approaches the magnetocaloric material 310, the current generating device 330 may generate the first current I1. The current generating device 330 may generate a current flowing from the second electrode 3312 to the first electrode 3311. The current generating device 330 may generate a current flowing from the fourth electrode 3314 to the third electrode 3313. The current generating device 330 may generate a current flowing from the seventh electrode 3317 to the sixth electrode 3316.

While the magnet 320 approaches the magnetocaloric material 310 and then moves away from the magnetocaloric material 310, the current generating device 330 may generate the second current I2. The current generating device 330 may generate a current flowing from the first electrode 3311 to the second electrode 3312. The current generating device 330 may generate a current flowing from the fifth electrode 3315 to the third electrode 3313. The current generating device 330 may generate a current flowing from the eighth electrode 3318 to the sixth electrode 3316.

FIG. 9 is a control block diagram of a cooling cycle apparatus according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 9, the cooling cycle apparatus (or the magnetic cooling device) may include a controller 360, a driver 370, a magnet 320, a power supply 380, and a current generating device 330.

The cooling cycle apparatus according to an embodiment of the disclosure may not include some of the components shown in FIG. 9. The cooling cycle apparatus according to an embodiment of the disclosure may include additional components in addition to those shown in FIG. 9.

The controller 360 may control the magnetic cooling device 300. The controller 360 may control the operation of the magnetic cooling device 300. The controller 360 may be electrically connected to various components of the magnetic cooling device 300.

The controller 360 may include hardware such as a CPU, a Micom, or memory, and software such as control programs. For example, the controller 360 may include at least one memory 362 that stores data in a form of algorithms and/or programs for controlling the operation of components of the cooling cycle apparatus. For example, the controller 360 may include at least one processor 361 that performs operations using the data stored in the at least one memory 362. The memory 362 and the at least one processor 361 may each be implemented as separate chips. The at least one processor 361 may include one or more processor chips or one or more processing cores. The memory 362 may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks. In addition, the memory 362 and the at least one processor 361 may be implemented as a single chip.

The driver 370 may generate power. The driver 370 may be configured to move and/or rotate the magnet 320 relative to the magnetocaloric material 310. For example, the driver 370 may generate a driving force to switch the magnet 320 from the first position P1 to the second position P2 or from the second position P2 to the first position P1. For example, the driver 370 may move the magnet 320. For example, the driver 370 may rotate the magnet 320. The magnet 320 may be moved and/or rotated by the driver 370, and as the magnet 320 moves and/or rotates, the strength of the magnetic field applied to the magnetocaloric material 310 may change.

The driver 370 may be referred to as a driving device 370, a driving module 370, a driving assembly 370, and the like. For example, the driver 370 may include at least one motor.

The controller 360 may control the driver 370. For example, the controller 360 may control the driver 370 such that the magnet 320 approaches the magnetocaloric material 310. For example, the controller 360 may control the driver 370 to move and/or rotate the magnet 320 for the operation of the first mode M1 of the magnetic cooling device 300. For example, the controller 360 may control the driver 370 such that the magnet 320 moves away from the magnetocaloric material 310. For example, the controller 360 may control the driver 370 to move and/or rotate the magnet 320 for the operation of the second mode M2 of the magnetic cooling device 300.

The power supply 380 may be provided to supply power to the current generating device 330. Although the current generating device 330 and the power supply 380 are shown as separate components in the drawing, the disclosure is not limited thereto, and the power supply 380 may be provided as a component of the current generating device 330.

The controller 360 may control the power supply 380. For example, the controller 360 may control the power supply 380 such that the current generating device 330 generates the first current I1. For example, the controller 360 may control the power supply 380 such that the current generating device 330 generates the second current I2. However, the controller 360 may directly control the current generating device 330. The controller 360 may control the current generating device 330 to generate the first current I1. For example, the controller 360 may control the current generating device 330 to generate the first current I1 for the operation of the first mode M1 of the magnetic cooling device 300. The controller 360 may control the current generating device 330 to generate the second current I2. For example, the controller 360 may control the current generating device 330 to generate the second current I2 for the operation of the second mode M2 of the magnetic cooling device 300.

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a magnetic cooling device according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 10, an example of a magnetic cooling device will be described. Compared to the magnetic cooling device shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, the magnetic cooling device shown in FIG. 10 may be substantially the same except for the arrangement of the current generating device 330. The same reference numerals are assigned to components that are substantially the same as those described above, and the same descriptions may be omitted.

Referring to FIG. 10, the current generating device 330 may be provided outside the case 340. The at least one electrode 331 of the current generating device 330 may be disposed outside the case 340. The at least one electrode 331 may be disposed to correspond to a gap(s) formed between the plurality of magnetocaloric blocks 3101, 3102, 3103, 3104, 3105, and 3106. For example, the at least one electrode 331 may be disposed to correspond to the gap(s).

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the position or shape of the current generating device 330 is not limited as long as the current generating device 330 can generate a current such that Lorentz force acts on the heat transfer fluid.

FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of a cooling cycle apparatus according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 11, the cooling cycle apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the disclosure may include a first heat exchanger 100, a second heat exchanger 200, and a magnetic cooling device 300.

The magnetic cooling device 300 may include a plurality of magnetocaloric modules 301. For example, the magnetic cooling device 300 may include a first magnetocaloric module 301a and a second magnetocaloric module 301b. The first magnetocaloric module 301a and the second magnetocaloric module 301b may have substantially the same configuration and/or structure. The first magnetocaloric module 301a and the second magnetocaloric module 301b may be spaced apart from each other.

Each of the plurality of magnetocaloric modules 301 may include a magnetocaloric material 310. Each of the plurality of magnetocaloric modules 301 may heat or cool the heat transfer fluid passing through the magnetocaloric module 301 using the magnetocaloric effect of the magnetocaloric material 310. For example, the first magnetocaloric module 301a may include a first magnetocaloric material 310a, and the second magnetocaloric module 301b may include a second magnetocaloric material 310b. The second magnetocaloric material 310b may be spaced apart from the first magnetocaloric material 310a.

Each of the plurality of magnetocaloric modules 301 may include a first inlet 341, a first outlet 342, a second inlet 343, and a second outlet 344. For example, the first magnetocaloric module 301a may include a first inlet 341a, a first outlet 342a, a second inlet 343a, and a second outlet 344a. For example, the second magnetocaloric module 301b may include a first inlet 341b, a first outlet 342b, a second inlet 343b, and a second outlet 344b.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the first magnetocaloric module 301a and the second magnetocaloric module 301b may be configured to operate differently.

While the first magnetocaloric module 301a operates in the first mode M1 (see FIG. 4), the second magnetocaloric module 301b may operate in the second mode M2 (see FIG. 5). While the second magnetocaloric module 301b operates in the first mode M1 (see FIG. 4), the first magnetocaloric module 301a may operate in the second mode M2 (see FIG. 5).

That is, while the first magnetocaloric module 301a moves the heated heat transfer fluid toward the first heat exchanger 100 (see FIG. 4), the second magnetocaloric module 301b may move the cooled heat transfer fluid toward the second heat exchanger 200 (see FIG. 5). Conversely, while the second magnetocaloric module 301b moves the heated heat transfer fluid toward the first heat exchanger 100 (see FIG. 4), the first magnetocaloric module 301a may move the cooled heat transfer fluid toward the second heat exchanger 200 (see FIG. 5). The magnetic cooling device 300 may heat a heat transfer fluid and move the heated heat transfer fluid toward the first heat exchanger 100, while simultaneously cooling a heat transfer fluid and moving the cooled heat transfer fluid toward the second heat exchanger 200. Thus, the heat transfer efficiency of the magnetic cooling device 300 may be increased.

As the magnet 320 approaches the first magnetocaloric module 301a, the magnet 320 may move away from the second magnetocaloric module 301b. As the magnet 320 approaches the second magnetocaloric module 301b, the magnet 320 may move away from the first magnetocaloric module 301a. For example, when the magnet 320 is positioned at the first position P1 with respect to the first magnetocaloric module 301a, the magnet 320 may be referred to as being positioned at the second position P2 with respect to the second magnetocaloric module 301b. For example, when the magnet 320 is positioned at the first position P1 with respect to the second magnetocaloric module 301b, the magnet 320 may be referred to as being positioned at the second position P2 with respect to the first magnetocaloric module 301a.

The heat transfer fluid may flow in opposite directions in the first magnetocaloric module 301a and the second magnetocaloric module 301b. The heat transfer fluid flowing through the first magnetocaloric material 310a and the heat transfer fluid flowing through the second magnetocaloric material 310b may move in opposite directions. For example, while the first magnetocaloric module 301a moves the heat transfer fluid in the third direction (d3, see FIG. 4), the second magnetocaloric module 301b may move the heat transfer fluid in the fourth direction (d4, see FIG. 5). For example, while the second magnetocaloric module 301b moves the heat transfer fluid in the third direction (d3, see FIG. 4), the first magnetocaloric module 301a may move the heat transfer fluid in the fourth direction (d4, see FIG. 5).

For the above-described flow of the heat transfer fluid, the current generating device 330 may generate a current in one of the first direction d1 and the second direction d2 in the first magnetocaloric material 310a, and generate a current in another one of the first direction d1 and the second direction d2 in the second magnetocaloric material 310b. That is, the current generating device 330 may generate the first current I1 in the first magnetocaloric material 310a (see FIG. 4) and generate the second current I2 in the second magnetocaloric material 310b (see FIG. 5). Conversely, the current generating device 330 may generate the first current I1 in the second magnetocaloric material 310b (see FIG. 4) and generate the second current I2 in the first magnetocaloric material 310a (see FIG. 5).

However, unlike the above description, according to an embodiment of the disclosure, the first magnetocaloric module 301a and the second magnetocaloric module 301b may be configured to operate in the same manner. For example, the first magnetocaloric module 301a and the second magnetocaloric module 301b may be configured to operate simultaneously in the first mode M1 or the second mode M2.

The first flow path 410 may include a first connection line 411 and a second connection line 412. The first connection line 411 may connect the first inlet 341a of the first magnetocaloric module 301a and the second heat exchanger 200. The second connection line 412 may connect the first inlet 341b of the second magnetocaloric module 301b and the second heat exchanger 200.

The second flow path 420 may include a third connection line 421 and a fourth connection line 422. The third connection line 421 may connect the first outlet 342a of the first magnetocaloric module 301a and the first heat exchanger 100. The fourth connection line 422 may connect the first outlet 342b of the second magnetocaloric module 301b and the first heat exchanger 100.

The third flow path 430 may include a fifth connection line 431 and a sixth connection line 432. The fifth connection line 431 may connect the second inlet 343a of the first magnetocaloric module 301a and the first heat exchanger 100. The sixth connection line 432 may connect the second inlet 343b of the second magnetocaloric module 301b and the first heat exchanger 100.

The fourth flow path 440 may include a seventh connection line 441 and an eighth connection line 442. The seventh connection line 441 may connect the second outlet 344a of the first magnetocaloric module 301a and the second heat exchanger 200. The eighth connection line 442 may connect the second outlet 344b of the second magnetocaloric module 301b and the second heat exchanger 200.

FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of a magnetic cooling device according to an embodiment. FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a cooling cycle apparatus including the magnetic cooling device shown in FIG. 12. The same reference numerals are assigned to components that are substantially the same as those described above, and the same descriptions may be omitted.

Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, the magnetic cooling device 300 may include a plurality of magnetocaloric modules 301. For example, the magnetic cooling device 300 may include a third magnetocaloric module 301c, a fourth magnetocaloric module 301d, a fifth magnetocaloric module 301e, a sixth magnetocaloric module 301f, a seventh magnetocaloric module 301g, an eighth magnetocaloric module 301h, a ninth magnetocaloric module 301i, and a tenth magnetocaloric module 301j. Each of the plurality of magnetocaloric modules 301 may have substantially the same configuration and/or structure. In FIGS. 12 and 13, the magnetic cooling device 300 is illustrated as including eight magnetocaloric modules 301, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. The number of magnetocaloric modules 301 is not limited thereto.

Each of the plurality of magnetocaloric modules 301 may include a magnetocaloric material 310. Each of the plurality of magnetocaloric modules 301 may heat or cool the heat transfer fluid passing through the magnetocaloric material 310 using the magnetocaloric effect of the magnetocaloric material 310. For example, the third magnetocaloric module 301c may include a third magnetocaloric material 310c. For example, the fourth magnetocaloric module 301d may include a fourth magnetocaloric material 310d. For example, the fifth magnetocaloric module 301e may include a fifth magnetocaloric material 310e. For example, the sixth magnetocaloric module 301f may include a sixth magnetocaloric material 310f. For example, the seventh magnetocaloric module 301g may include a seventh magnetocaloric material 310g. For example, the eighth magnetocaloric module 301h may include an eighth magnetocaloric material 310h. For example, the ninth magnetocaloric module 301i may include a ninth magnetocaloric material 310i. For example, the tenth magnetocaloric module 301j may include a tenth magnetocaloric material 310j.

Each of the plurality of magnetocaloric modules 301 may include a first internal flow path 351 and a second internal flow path 352. A heat transfer fluid with increased temperature may flow along the first internal flow path 351. A heat transfer fluid with decreased temperature may flow along the second internal flow path 352.

The plurality of magnetocaloric materials 310 may be arranged in a circumferential direction around a central axis C. The plurality of magnetocaloric materials 310 may be disposed adjacent to each other. The plurality of magnetocaloric materials 310 may be provided to form approximately a ring shape.

The magnet 320 may be provided to rotate relative to the plurality of magnetocaloric modules 301. The magnet 320 may be provided to rotate relative to the plurality of magnetocaloric materials 310. The magnet 320 may be provided to rotate along the direction in which the plurality of magnetocaloric materials 310 are arranged. The magnet 320 may be configured to rotate along the circumference of the plurality of magnetocaloric materials 310. The magnet 320 may be rotatable relative to the plurality of magnetocaloric materials 310 around the central axis C. The magnet 320 may be rotatable along the circumferential direction. The driver 370 (see FIG. 9) may provide power to the magnet 320 such that the magnet 320 rotates.

The current generating device 330 may include a plurality of electrodes 331. Any one of the electrodes 331 may be disposed between two adjacent magnetocaloric modules 301. Any one of the electrodes 331 may be disposed between neighboring magnetocaloric materials 310. The plurality of magnetocaloric materials 310 and the plurality of electrodes 331 may be provided to be disposed alternately. Each of the plurality of electrodes 331 may be disposed in a space between the plurality of magnetocaloric modules 301. Thus, the magnetic cooling device 300 may have a compact structure.

A portion of the plurality of magnetocaloric modules 301 may operate in the first mode M1 (see FIG. 4), and the remaining portion of the plurality of magnetocaloric modules 301 may operate in the second mode M2 (see FIG. 5). A heat transfer fluid with increased temperature may move toward the first heat exchanger 100 (see FIG. 1) through the portion of the plurality of magnetocaloric modules 301. A heat transfer fluid with decreased temperature may move toward the second heat exchanger 200 (see FIG. 1) through the remaining portion of the plurality of magnetocaloric modules 301.

The magnet 320 may apply a magnetic field to a portion of the plurality of magnetocaloric modules 301 and may not apply a magnetic field to the remaining portion of the plurality of magnetocaloric modules 301. The portion of the plurality of magnetocaloric modules 301 may be influenced by the magnetic field from the magnet 320, while the remaining portion of the plurality of magnetocaloric modules 301 may not be influenced by the magnetic field from the magnet 320. As the magnet 320 rotates, the magnetocaloric modules 301 influenced by the magnetic field may change.

The current generating device 330 may generate the first current I1 in a portion of the plurality of magnetocaloric modules 301 (see FIG. 4) and generate the second current I2 in the remaining portion of the plurality of magnetocaloric modules 301 (see FIG. 5). As the magnetocaloric modules 301 influenced by the magnetic field change, the direction of the current supplied by the current generating device 330 to each magnetocaloric module 301 may also change.

For example, referring to FIG. 12, the magnet 320 may rotate to apply a magnetic field to the third magnetocaloric module 301c and the seventh magnetocaloric module 301g. The magnet 320 may be provided to approach the third magnetocaloric material 310c and the seventh magnetocaloric material 310g via rotation. In this case, the current generating device 330 may cause the first current I1 to flow through the third magnetocaloric material 310c and the seventh magnetocaloric material 310g. Accordingly, a heat transfer fluid flowing through the third magnetocaloric material 310c and the seventh magnetocaloric material 310g may be heated, and the heated heat transfer fluid may move toward the first heat exchanger 100. The third magnetocaloric material 310c and the seventh magnetocaloric material 310g may operate in the first mode M1 (see FIG. 4). The magnet 320 may be provided to move away from the tenth magnetocaloric material 310j and the sixth magnetocaloric material 310f via rotation. The current generating device 330 may cause the second current I2 to flow through the tenth magnetocaloric material 310j and the sixth magnetocaloric material 310f before the magnet 320 completely moves away from the tenth magnetocaloric material 310j and the sixth magnetocaloric material 310f (i.e., before the magnetic flux density becomes 0 T). Accordingly, the heat transfer fluid flowing through the tenth magnetocaloric material 310j and the sixth magnetocaloric material 310f may be cooled, and the cooled heat transfer fluid may move toward the second heat exchanger 200. The tenth magnetocaloric material 310j and the sixth magnetocaloric material 310f may operate in the second mode M2 (see FIG. 5).

Meanwhile, in FIG. 12, the magnet 320 is illustrated as rotating clockwise, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. The magnet 320 may also rotate counterclockwise.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a home appliance including a cooling cycle apparatus according to an embodiment. In FIG. 14, a refrigerator 2a is illustrated as an example of a home appliance 2.

The refrigerator 2a according to an embodiment of the disclosure may include a cooling cycle apparatus 1 (see FIG. 1).

The refrigerator 2a may include a body 10, a storage compartment 20 provided inside the body 10, a door 30 that opens and closes the storage compartment 20, and a cooling system for supplying cold air to the storage compartment 20.

The body 10 may include an inner case 11 that forms the storage compartment 20 and an outer case 12 that forms the exterior of the refrigerator 2a.

The outer case 12 may be formed to have a substantially box-like shape having an open front surface. The outer case 12 may form upper and lower surfaces, left and right side surfaces, and a rear surface of the refrigerator 2a.

The inner case 11 may have an open front. The inner case 11 may have the storage compartment 20 provided inside and may be provided inside the outer case 12. An inner wall of the inner case 11 may form an inner wall of the storage compartment 20.

The body 10 may include a top table 13 provided on an upper side of the body 10. Specifically, the top table 13 may be coupled to an upper side of the outer case 12. The top table 13 may be coupled to the upper surface of the outer case 12. The top table 13 may be fixed to the outer case 12.

The top table 13 may cover various electrical components. An accommodation space in which various electrical components are accommodated may be formed inside of the top table 13.

A body insulation material may be provided between the outer case 12 and the inner case 11 of the body 10 such that the outer case 12 and the inner case 11 are thermally insulated from each other.

The storage compartment 20 may be formed inside the body 10. For example, the storage compartment 20 may include a refrigerating compartment maintained at approximately 0 to 5 degrees Celsius for keeping food refrigerated. For example, the storage compartment 20 may include a freezing compartment maintained at approximately −30 to 0 degrees Celsius for keeping food frozen.

For example, the storage compartment 20 may be divided into plurality of areas by a partition 15. Specifically, the storage compartment 20 may be divided into an upper first storage compartment 21 and lower storage compartments 22 and 23 by a first partition 17 extending in a horizontal direction. In addition, the lower storage compartments 22 and 23 of the storage compartment 20 may be divided into a left second storage compartment 22 and a right third storage compartment 23 by a second partition 19 extending in a vertical direction. In this case, for example, the first storage compartment 21 may be used as a refrigerating compartment, and both the second storage compartment 22 and the third storage compartment 23 may be used as freezing compartments, or one of the second storage compartment 22 and the third storage compartment 23 may be used as a freezing compartment and the other may be used as a refrigerating compartment.

The above dividing method of the storage compartment 20 and the use of each of the divided storage compartments 21, 22, and 23 described above are merely one example and are not limited thereto.

A shelves 24 on which food may be placed and a storage container 26 for storing food may be provided inside the storage compartment 20.

The refrigerator 2a may include a cooling system that is provided to generate cold air using a cooling cycle and supply the generated cold air to the storage compartment 20. The cooling system may include a cooling cycle apparatus (1, see FIG. 1).

For example, the first heat exchanger 100 may be disposed outside the body 10 of the refrigerator 2a. For example, the first heat exchanger 100 may be disposed on an outer side of the outer case 11. For example, the second heat exchanger 200 and the magnetic cooling device 300 may be disposed inside the body 10 of the refrigerator 2a. For example, the second heat exchanger 200 may be disposed in the storage compartment 20. For example, the second heat exchanger 200 may be disposed on an inner side of the inner case 12. For example, the magnetic cooling device 300 may be disposed in a machine room of the refrigerator 2a.

The door 30 may be provided to open and close the storage compartment 20. The door 30 may be provided to open and close an opening formed on one side of the body 10. The door 30 may be provided to be rotatable relative to the body 10.

A door gasket 37 may be provided on an inner surface (a rear surface) of the door 30 to seal a gap between the door 30 and the body 10 to prevent leakage of cold air from the storage compartment 20. The door gasket 37 may be provided along a perimeter of the inner surface of the door 30. The door gasket 37 may be configured to include elastic materials such as rubber.

A door basket 36 for storing food may be provided on the inner surface (the rear surface) of the door 30.

The refrigerator 2a may include a plurality of doors 30A, 30B, 30C, and 30D that open and close each of the divided storage compartments 21, 22, and 23.

Specifically, the first storage compartment 21 may be opened and closed by a pair of upper doors 30A and 30B. The refrigerator 2a may include a first door 30A that opens and closes a portion of the first storage compartment 21 and a second door 30B that opens and closes another portion of the first storage compartment 21. The first door 30A and the second door 30B may each be provided to be rotatable independently of each other relative to the body 10.

The first door 30A and the second door 30B may be arranged side by side. Specifically, the first door 30A and the second door 30B may be arranged side by side in the horizontal direction (Y direction). For example, the first door 30A may be provided to open and close the left portion of the first storage compartment 21, and the second door 30B may be provided to open and close the right portion of the first storage compartment 22.

The refrigerator 2a may have a rotating bar 50 that is provided on one door (for example, the first door 30A) among the pair of upper doors 30A and 30B to be rotatable relative to the one door and is provided to cover the gap between the pair of upper doors 30A and 30B when the pair of upper doors 30A and 30B close the first storage compartment 21.

The second storage compartment 22 may be opened and closed by a left lower door 30C. The refrigerator 2a may include a third door 30C provided to open and close the second storage compartment 22. The third door 30C may be provided to be rotatable relative to the body 10. For example, the first door 30A and the third door 30C may be arranged one above the other in the vertical direction Z.

The third storage compartment 23 may be opened and closed by a right lower door 30D. The refrigerator 2a may include a fourth door 30D provided to open and close the third storage compartment 23. The fourth door 30D may be provided to be rotatable relative to the body 10. For example, the second door 30B and the fourth door 30D may be arranged one above the other in the vertical direction Z. In addition, the third door 30C and the fourth door 30D may be arranged side by side in the horizontal direction Y.

The refrigerator 2a may include a hinge bracket 40 connecting the body 10 and the door 30. The hinge bracket 40 may be arranged such that the door 30 is rotatable relative to the body 10.

The hinge bracket 40 may be fixed to the body 10. Specifically, the hinge bracket 40 may be coupled to the outer case 12.

The hinge brackets 40 may rotatably support the door 30. The door 30 may be rotatably coupled to the body 10 by the hinge bracket 40. The rotation axis of the door 30 may pass through the hinge bracket 40.

Specifically, the refrigerator 2a may include a plurality of hinge brackets 41, 42, and 43 provided each configured to support one of the plurality of doors 30A, 30B, 30C, and 30D.

The refrigerator 2a is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 14, and the cooling cycle apparatus 1 according to an embodiment may be applied to various types of refrigerators such as a side-by-side type refrigerator, a French door type, a bottom mounted freezer (BMF) type refrigerator, a top mounted freezer (TMF) type, or a single door type refrigerator.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a home appliance including a cooling cycle apparatus according to an embodiment. In FIG. 15, an indoor unit 2b of an air conditioner is illustrated as an example of a home appliance 2. FIG. 16 is a side cross-sectional view of a home appliance including a cooling cycle apparatus according to an embodiment. In FIG. 16, a side cross-sectional view of the indoor unit 2b of the air conditioner shown in FIG. 15 is illustrated.

An air conditioner according to an embodiment of the disclosure may include a cooling cycle apparatus (1, see FIG. 1). The air conditioner may include the indoor unit 2b that supplies cold air to a cooling space by absorbing heat, and an outdoor unit that discharges heat to an external space. For example, the cooling space may be an indoor space in which the indoor unit 2b of the air conditioner is installed.

For example, the first heat exchanger 100 and the magnetic cooling device 300 of the cooling cycle apparatus 1 may be disposed in the outdoor unit, and the second heat exchanger 200 may be disposed in the indoor unit 2b. Hereinafter, for convenience of description, the second heat exchanger 200 may be referred to as a heat exchanger 200.

The indoor unit 2b of the air conditioner may be mounted on a ceiling 3. The indoor unit 2b of the air conditioner may be installed on the ceiling 3. At least a portion of the indoor unit 2b of the air conditioner may be suspended from or embedded in the ceiling 3.

The indoor unit 2b of the air conditioner may include a housing 10b having a suction port 20b and a discharge port 21b, a heat exchanger 200 provided inside the housing 10b, and a blowing fan 40b that moves air.

The housing 10b may have approximately a circular shape. For example, the housing 10b may include an upper housing 11b, a middle housing 12b coupled to a lower side of the upper housing 11b, and a lower housing 13b coupled to a lower side of the middle housing 12b. At least portions of the upper housing 11b and the middle housing 12b may be embedded inside the ceiling 3.

The suction port 20b through which air is drawn in may be formed in the central portion of the lower housing 13b. The discharge port 21b through which air is discharged may be formed radially outward from the suction port 20b. The discharge port 21b may have approximately a circular shape.

With such a structure, the indoor unit 2b of the air conditioner may draw in air from below, cool or heat the air, and then discharge the air back downward.

A grille 15b may be coupled to a lower portion of the lower housing 13b to filter out dust from air drawn through the suction port 20b.

The heat exchanger 200 may be provided to exchange heat with air drawn through the suction port 20b. For example, air drawn through the suction port 20b may be cooled while passing through the heat exchanger 200. The heat exchanger 200 may be the second heat exchanger 200 of the cooling cycle apparatus 1.

The heat exchanger 200 may be placed on a drain tray 16b. Condensate generated in the heat exchanger 200 may be collected in the drain tray 16b.

The blowing fan 40b may be provided radially inward of the heat exchanger 200. The blowing fan 40b may generate a blowing force. The blowing fan 40b may forcibly move air. For example, the blowing fan 40b may be a centrifugal fan that draws in air in an axial direction and discharges the air in a radial direction. A blowing motor 41b configured to drive the blowing fan 40b may be provided in the indoor unit 2b of the air conditioner.

The indoor unit 2b of the air conditioner may include an airflow control device 50b that controls a discharge airflow.

The airflow control device 50b may control a direction of a discharge airflow by drawing in air around the discharge port 21b and changing pressure. In addition, the airflow control device 50b may control an amount of air drawn in around the discharge port 21b. For example, the airflow control device 50b may control the direction of the discharge airflow by controlling the amount of air drawn in around the discharge port 21b. For example, the airflow control device 50b may control an angle of the discharge airflow.

The airflow control device 50b may draw in air from one side along a discharge airflow direction when drawing in air around the discharge port 21b. In this case, the angle of the discharge airflow may be adjusted according to the amount of air drawn in.

The airflow control device 50b may discharge the drawn air to one side along the discharge airflow direction. In particular, the airflow control device 50b may discharge the air in a direction opposite to a direction in which the air is drawn in. Thus, the angle of the discharge airflow may become larger, and the airflow control may be performed more smoothly.

The airflow control device 50b may draw in air from a radially outer side of the discharge port 21b (or from above the discharge airflow). In this way, since the airflow control device 50b draws in air from the radially outer side of the discharge port 21b, the discharge airflow may spread widely from a radial center of the discharge port 21b to the radial outer side.

The airflow control device 50b may include an airflow control fan 60b configured to generate a suction force to draw in air around the discharge port 21b, an airflow control motor 61 configured to drive the airflow control fan 60b, and a guide flow path 70b configured to guide air drawn in by the airflow control fan 60b.

In addition, in the embodiment, a centrifugal fan may be used as the airflow control fan 60b, but it is not limited thereto, and various fans such as axial fans, cross-flow fans, and mixed-flow fans may be used depending on design specifications.

The guide flow path 70b may connect an inlet 71b configured to draw in air around the discharge port 21b and an outlet 72b configured to discharge the drawn-in air. When a flow path connecting the suction port 20b and the discharge port 21b is referred to as a main flow path, the guide flow path 70b may be referred to as branching from the main flow path.

The inlet 71b may include a plurality of slits having an arc shape. The plurality of slits may be provided to be spaced apart from each other at defined intervals along the circumferential direction.

The outlet 72b may be located around the discharge port 21b on an opposite side of the inlet 71b.

The guide flow path 70b may be formed circumferentially on an outer side of the housing 10b. Air drawn in through the inlet 71b may be discharged through the outlet 72b via the guide flow path 70b.

With such a configuration, the indoor unit of the air conditioner according to an embodiment may control the discharge airflow without a blade structure. Accordingly, since there is no interference with blades, the discharge amount may be increased and flow noise may be reduced.

Since the discharge port of the indoor unit of the air conditioner according to an embodiment may be provided in a circular shape, and the housing and the heat exchanger may also be provided in a circular shape. Such a configuration may not only enhance aesthetics with a differentiated design, but also allows the airflow to flow naturally, reduce pressure loss considering that shapes of the blowing fans are generally circular, and consequently improve cooling or heating performance of the air conditioner.

In FIGS. 15 and 16, a ceiling-type indoor unit 2b is illustrated, but the disclosure is not limited to the examples shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, and the cooling cycle apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the disclosure may also be applied to different types such as a standing-type indoor unit 2b and a wall-mounted indoor unit 2b. In FIGS. 15 and 16, an indoor unit 2b without a blade structure is illustrated, but the disclosure is not limited to the examples shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, and the indoor unit 2b of the air conditioner may also be applied to indoor units having a blade structure. In addition, the cooling cycle apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the disclosure may also be applied to outdoor units.

A cooling cycle apparatus according to an embodiment of the disclosure includes: a first heat exchanger 100 configured to discharge heat; a second heat exchanger 200 configured to absorb heat; and a magnetic cooling device 300 disposed between the first heat exchanger 100 and the second heat exchanger 200 and configured to operate by sequentially switching between a first mode M1 and a second mode M2. The magnetic cooling device 300 includes: a magnetocaloric material 310 through which a heat transfer fluid flows; a magnet 320 configured to form the magnetic field around the magnetocaloric material 310; and a current generating device 330 disposed adjacent to the magnetocaloric material 310 and configured to generate a current. In the first mode M1, the magnet 320 approaches the magnetocaloric material 310, and the current generating device 330 generates a current in a first direction d1 to cause the heat transfer fluid having an increased temperature to flow toward the first heat exchanger 100. In the second mode M2, the magnet 320 moves away from the magnetocaloric material 310, and the current generating device 330 generates a current in a second direction d2 to cause the heat transfer fluid having a decreased temperature to flow toward the second heat exchanger 200.

The magnet 320 may be configured to be movable and/or rotatable relative to the magnetocaloric material 310 to approach the magnetocaloric material 310 or move away from the magnetocaloric material 310.

The first direction d1 and second direction d2 may be perpendicular to the direction of the magnetic field B formed by the magnet 320.

The first direction d1 and the second direction d2 may be perpendicular to the moving direction of the heat transfer fluid toward the first heat exchanger 100 or the second heat exchanger 200.

The first direction d1 and the second direction d2 may be opposite to each other.

The magnetocaloric material 310 may include a plurality of magnetocaloric blocks 3101, 3102, 3103, 3104, 3105, and 3106 arranged with a defined gap(s) and having different Curie temperatures. The current generating device 330 may include at least one electrode 331 disposed to correspond to the defined gap(s).

The current generating device 330 may include: a first electrode 3311; and a second electrode 3312 spaced apart from the first electrode 3311 with the defined gap therebetween.

In the first mode M1, the current generating device 330 may generate a current flowing from the second electrode 3312 to the first electrode 3311. In the second mode M2, the current generating device 330 may generate a current flowing from the first electrode 3311 to the second electrode 3312.

The magnetocaloric material may be a first magnetocaloric material 310a. The magnetic cooling device may further include a second magnetocaloric material 310b spaced apart from the first magnetocaloric material 310a and through which a heat transfer fluid flows.

The current generating device 330 may generate a current in one of the first direction d1 and the second direction d2 in the first magnetocaloric material 310a and generate a current in another direction of the first direction d1 and the second direction d2 in the second magnetocaloric material 310b such that the heat transfer fluid flowing through the first magnetocaloric material 310a and the heat transfer fluid flowing through the second magnetocaloric material 310b move in opposite directions.

The magnetocaloric material 310 may include a plurality of magnetocaloric materials. The plurality of magnetocaloric materials 310 may be arranged in a circumferential direction around a central axis C. The magnet 320 may be provided to be rotatable relative to the plurality of magnetocaloric materials 310 around the central axis C.

The current generating device 330 may include a plurality of electrodes 331. The plurality of magnetocaloric materials 310 and the plurality of electrodes 331 may be provided to be alternately disposed.

The magnetic cooling device 300 may include: a case 340 provided to accommodate the magnetocaloric material 310; a first inlet 341 formed on the first side of the case 340 and arranged for the heat transfer fluid to flow in from the second heat exchanger 200; a first outlet 342 formed on the second side of the case 340 and provided to discharge the heat transfer fluid toward the first heat exchanger 100; a second inlet 343 formed on the second side of the case 340 and arranged for the heat transfer fluid to flow in from the first heat exchanger 100; and a second outlet 344 formed on one side of the case 340 and provided to discharge the heat transfer fluid toward the second heat exchanger 200.

The current generating device 330 may include: a first electrode 3313 provided between the first inlet 341 and the second outlet 344; a second electrode 3314 spaced apart from the first electrode 3313 with the first inlet 341 therebetween; a third electrode 3315 spaced apart from the first electrode 3313 with the second outlet 344 therebetween; a fourth electrode 3316 provided between the second inlet 343 and the first outlet 342; a fifth electrode 3317 spaced apart from the fourth electrode 3316 with the first outlet 342 therebetween; and a sixth electrode 3318 spaced apart from the fourth electrode 3316 with the second inlet 343 therebetween.

In the first mode M1, the current generating device 330 may generate a current flowing from the second electrode 3314 to the first electrode 3313 and a current flowing from the fifth electrode 3317 to the fourth electrode 3316. In the second mode M2, the current generating device 330 may generate a current flowing from the third electrode 3315 to the first electrode 3313 and a current flowing from the sixth electrode 3318 to the fourth electrode 3316.

A magnetic cooling device according to an embodiment of the disclosure may include: a magnetocaloric material 310 configured to change temperature based on a magnetic field, to heat a heat transfer fluid as the temperature rises and cool a heat transfer fluid as the temperature falls; a magnet 320 that forms the magnetic field; and a current generating device 330 provided to generate a current. While the magnet 320 approaches the magnetocaloric material 310, the heat transfer fluid is heated by the magnetocaloric material with increased temperature, and the current generating device 330 generates a current in a second direction d1 that intersects with a first direction d3 to move the heat transfer fluid with increased temperature in the first direction d3. While the magnet 320 moves away from the magnetocaloric material 310, the heat transfer fluid is cooled by the magnetocaloric material with decreased temperature, and the current generating device 330 generates a current in a fourth direction d2 that intersects with a third direction d4 to move the heat transfer fluid with decreased temperature in the third direction d4.

The first direction d3 and the third direction d4 may be opposite to each other. The second direction d1 and the fourth direction d2 may be opposite to each other.

The magnetocaloric material 310 include a plurality of magnetocaloric blocks 3101, 3102, 3103, 3104, 3105, and 3106 arranged with a defined gap(s) and having different Curie temperatures. The current generating device 330 may include at least one electrode 331 disposed to correspond to the defined gap(s).

The magnetic cooling device may include a driving device 370 provided to move and/or rotate the magnet 320 relative to the magnetocaloric material 310.

A cooling cycle apparatus according to an embodiment of the disclosure may include: a first heat exchanger 100 configured to discharge heat; a second heat exchanger 200 configured to absorb heat; and a magnetic cooling device 300 disposed between the first heat exchanger 100 and the second heat exchanger 200. The magnetic cooling device 300 may include: a magnetocaloric material 310 configured to change temperature based on a magnetic field, to heat a heat transfer fluid as the temperature rises and cool a heat transfer fluid as the temperature falls; and a current generating device 330 configured to generate a current in a first direction d1 in the magnetocaloric material or generate a current in a second direction d2 in the magnetocaloric material. A heat transfer fluid with increased temperature may flow toward the first heat exchanger 100 by the current in the first direction d1. A heat transfer fluid with decreased temperature may flow toward the second heat exchanger 200 by the current in the second direction d2.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the magnetic cooling device does not require a pump and thus may have a compact structure and reduced noise.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the magnetic cooling device uses electrically conductive fluid and thus heat transfer efficiency may be improved.

The effects of the present invention are not limited to those described above, and other effects that are not described above will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the above detailed description.

At least one of the components, elements, modules or units (collectively “components”) represented by a block in the drawings and/or described in the specification, may be embodied as various numbers of hardware, software and/or firmware structures that execute respective functions described above, according to one or more example embodiments. For example, at least one of these components may use a direct circuit structure, such as a memory, a processor, a logic circuit, a look-up table, etc. that may execute the respective functions through controls of one or more microprocessors or other control apparatuses. Also, at least one of these components may be specifically embodied by a module, a program, or a part of code, which contains one or more executable instructions for performing specified logic functions, and executed by one or more microprocessors or other control apparatuses. Further, at least one of these components may include or may be implemented by a processor such as a central processing unit (CPU) that performs the respective functions, a microprocessor, or the like. Two or more of these components may be combined into one single component which performs all operations or functions of the combined two or more components. Also, at least part of functions of at least one of these components may be performed by another of these components. Further, although a bus is not illustrated in the above block diagrams, communication between the components may be performed through the bus. Functional aspects of the above example embodiments may be implemented in algorithms that execute on one or more processors. Furthermore, the components represented by a block or processing steps may employ any number of related art techniques for electronics configuration, signal processing and/or control, data processing and the like.

While the disclosure has been shown and described with reference to various embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.