JP7805833B2 - Rotary Adsorption Device - Google Patents

Description

This application relates to a rotary adsorption device.

Patent Document 1 describes a rotor-type adsorber that divides the periphery of a rotating shaft into multiple regions, has a flow path inside that holds and discharges fluid F2, and is equipped with multiple partition sections that have adsorbent material on the exterior or on the wall surface of the flow path, and blocking sections that block both ends of the region but do not block both ends of the flow path.

In the rotor-type adsorber described in Patent Document 1, the partition moves alternately between the evaporator side and the condenser side as it rotates around a rotation axis, retaining fluid F1 outside the partition on the evaporator side while discharging fluid F2 from the flow path, and retaining fluid F2 in the flow path of the partition on the condenser side while discharging fluid F1 from the outside.

JP 2014-185777 A

In the technology described in Patent Document 1, among the multiple regions, there is a region where the adsorption process of fluid F1 is performed and a region where the desorption process is performed, and the adsorption process and desorption process can be switched between without using a valve or the like.

However, the technology described in Patent Document 1 has multiple regions with different internal temperatures. When sensible heat transfers between regions with different internal temperatures, sensible heat loss occurs.

The objective of this application is to provide a rotary adsorption device that can reduce sensible heat loss between multiple compartments with different internal temperatures.

The first aspect of the present invention relates to an adsorber comprising: a rotating shaft; an adsorber body that rotates around the rotating shaft and is partitioned circumferentially around the rotating shaft by partition plates into a plurality of partition areas each having an opening on the outer periphery; heat transfer tubes that extend in the axial direction of the rotating shaft in each of the partition areas; and adsorbents that are arranged around the heat transfer tubes within the partition areas and adsorb and desorb a first fluid; an evaporator member that is connected to the opening of one of the partition areas and generates the first fluid; a condenser member that is connected to the opening of a partition area different from the partition area that is connected to the evaporator member and condenses the first fluid; and a condenser member that is connected to the opening of a partition area different from the partition area that is connected to the evaporator member and condenses the first fluid. a heating element that supplies a second fluid that heats the adsorbent to the heat transfer tubes in the compartmented region located in communication with the condensing element; a pair of fixed plates that are spaced apart in the axial direction of the rotating shaft and to which the heat transfer tubes and the compartment plate are fixed; a thermal insulation structure that provides thermal insulation between the fixed plate and the heat transfer tubes or between the fixed plate and the compartment plate; and a switching element that rotates the rotating shaft and periodically switches between the compartment region that is in communication with the evaporating element and the compartment region that is in communication with the condensing element.

In this rotary adsorption device, in the compartment area connected to the evaporator, a cooling liquid is supplied from the cooling member to the heat transfer tube to cool the adsorbent, and the first fluid generated by the evaporator is adsorbed by the adsorbent in the adsorber. In the compartment area connected to the condenser, a second fluid is supplied from the heating member to the heat transfer tube to heat the adsorbent, and the first fluid is desorbed from the adsorbent and transferred to the condenser, where it is condensed and liquefied. Rotation of the rotating shaft by the switching member periodically switches between the compartment area communicating with the evaporator and the compartment area communicating with the condenser, allowing for continuous operation.

The heat transfer tubes and partition plates are fixed by the fixing plate, so the relative positions of the heat transfer tubes and partition plates can be maintained constant.

It has an insulating structure that insulates between the fixed plate and the heat transfer tube, or between the fixed plate and the partition plate. In a configuration with an insulating structure between the fixed plate and the heat transfer tube, heat transfer from the heat transfer tube to the fixed plate is suppressed, reducing sensible heat loss. In a configuration with an insulating structure between the fixed plate and the partition plate, heat transfer from the heat transfer tube to the partition plate via the fixed plate is suppressed, reducing sensible heat loss.

In a second aspect, the thermal insulation structure includes a thermal insulator sandwiched between the fixed plate and the heat transfer tube.

Since the fixed plate and heat transfer tube do not come into direct contact and insulation material is placed between them, a high level of insulation is achieved.

In a third aspect, the thermal insulation structure includes a groove formed around the fixing portion of the fixing plate where the heat transfer tube is fixed, which partially thins the fixing plate.

An insulating structure can be created with the simple construction of forming grooves in the fixed plate.

In a fourth aspect, the insulating structure includes an insulating material disposed in the groove.

The grooves and insulation provide excellent insulation.

A fifth aspect is an adsorber comprising: a rotating shaft; an adsorber body that rotates around the rotating shaft; a heat transfer tube that extends in the axial direction of the rotating shaft in each of the partitioned areas by partition plates and has an opening on the outer circumferential side; a heat transfer tube that extends in the axial direction of the rotating shaft in each of the partitioned areas; and an adsorbent that is disposed around the heat transfer tube inside the partitioned areas and adsorbs and desorbs a first fluid; an evaporator that is connected to the opening of one of the partitioned areas and generates the first fluid; and a heat transfer tube that is connected to the opening of one of the partitioned areas and generates the first fluid. The rotary adsorption device includes a condensing member connected to an inlet for condensing the first fluid, a cooling member for supplying a cooling liquid for cooling the adsorbent to the heat transfer tubes in the compartmented area located in communication with the evaporation member, a heating member for supplying a second fluid for heating the adsorbent to the heat transfer tubes in the compartmented area located in communication with the condensing member, a heat insulating structure for insulating the partition plate, and a switching member for rotating the rotating shaft and periodically switching between the compartmented area communicating with the evaporation member and the compartmented area communicating with the condensing member.

In this rotary adsorption device, in the compartment area connected to the evaporator, a cooling liquid is supplied from the cooling member to the heat transfer tube to cool the adsorbent, and the first fluid generated by the evaporator is adsorbed by the adsorbent in the adsorber. In the compartment area connected to the condenser, a second fluid is supplied from the heating member to the heat transfer tube to heat the adsorbent, and the first fluid is desorbed from the adsorbent and transferred to the condenser, where it is condensed and liquefied. Rotation of the rotating shaft by the switching member periodically switches between the compartment area communicating with the evaporator and the compartment area communicating with the condenser, allowing for continuous operation.

The partition plates are insulated by their insulating structure. This limits heat transfer between the compartments separated by the partition plates, thereby reducing sensible heat loss between the compartments.

In a sixth aspect, the heat-insulating structure includes a structure in which the partition plates are formed from a heat-insulating material.

Because the partition plates are made of insulating material, there is no need to provide any insulating material other than the partition plates, simplifying the structure. Furthermore, the volume of the partitioned area is not reduced by the insulating material.

In a seventh aspect, the thermal insulation structure includes a thermal insulator attached to the partition plate.

The insulation mechanism can be constructed with a simple structure that involves attaching insulation material to the partition plate.

In an eighth aspect, the device includes a pair of fixed plates arranged at a distance in the axial direction of the rotating shaft, to which the heat transfer tubes and the partition plates are fixed, and the thermal insulation structure includes grooves formed in the fixing portion of the fixed plate that partially thin the wall of the fixed plate.

An insulating structure can be created with the simple construction of forming grooves in the fixed plate.

In a ninth aspect, the insulating structure includes an insulating material disposed in the groove.

The grooves and insulation provide excellent insulation.

A tenth aspect of the present invention is an adsorber comprising: a rotating shaft; an adsorber body that rotates around the rotating shaft and includes a plurality of compartment areas that are partitioned circumferentially around the rotating shaft by partition plates and have openings on the outer circumferential side; heat transfer tubes that extend in the axial direction of the rotating shaft in each of the compartment areas; and adsorbents that are arranged around the heat transfer tubes within the compartment areas and adsorb and desorb a first fluid; an evaporator connected to the opening of one of the compartment areas and generate the first fluid; and an adsorbent connected to the opening of a compartment area different from the compartment area that is in communication with the evaporator and condenses the first fluid. a condensing member that supplies a cooling liquid that cools the adsorbent to the heat transfer tubes in the compartmented area that are positioned to communicate with the evaporation member; a heating member that supplies a second fluid that heats the adsorbent to the heat transfer tubes in the compartmented area that are positioned to communicate with the condensing member; a heat insulating structure that insulates the heat transfer tubes to which the cooling liquid is supplied and the heat transfer tubes to which the second fluid is supplied; and a switching member that rotates the rotating shaft and periodically switches the compartmented area between communicating with the evaporation member and communicating with the condensing member.

In this rotary adsorption device, in the compartment area connected to the evaporator, a cooling liquid is supplied from a cooling member to the heat transfer tube to cool the adsorbent, and the first fluid generated by the evaporator is adsorbed by the adsorbent in the adsorber. In the compartment area connected to the condenser, a second fluid is supplied from a heating member to the heat transfer tube to heat the adsorbent, and the first fluid is desorbed from the adsorbent and transferred to the condenser, where it is condensed and liquefied. Rotation of the rotating shaft by a switching member periodically switches between the compartment area connected to the evaporator and the compartment area connected to the condenser, allowing for continuous operation.

The heat transfer tubes supplied with the coolant and the second fluid are insulated by an insulating structure. Since heat transfer between the two heat transfer tubes is suppressed, there is less temperature change inside each heat transfer tube, minimizing sensible heat loss.

In an eleventh aspect, the thermal insulation structure includes a thermal insulation member that forms a thermal insulation region between the heat transfer tube to which the coolant is supplied and the heat transfer tube to which the second fluid is supplied.

An insulating structure can be created with a simple configuration that involves providing an insulating member with an insulating space.

In a twelfth aspect, a sealing material is provided to prevent the first fluid from flowing in and out of the multiple partitioned regions.

The sealing material allows the separation between multiple compartments to be sealed, thereby preventing gas from moving between the compartments.

In a thirteenth aspect, the sealing material is sponge rubber with a closed-cell structure.

This allows for the creation of an elastic sealing material with a simple structure.

This application makes it possible to reduce sensible heat loss between multiple compartments with different internal temperatures.

FIG. 1 is a schematic front view showing a rotary adsorption apparatus according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view showing the rotary adsorption device of the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the internal structure of the rotary adsorption device of the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view showing the rotary adsorption device of the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the internal upper structure of the rotary adsorption device of the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the internal upper structure of the rotary adsorber of the first embodiment with the fixing plate removed. FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the upper structure of the rotary adsorption device of the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view showing the upper structure of the rotary adsorption device of the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing the internal structure of the upper partition member of the rotary adsorber of the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the upper part of the rotary adsorption device of the first embodiment with the upper partition member removed. FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the lower structure of the rotary adsorption device of the first embodiment. FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view showing the lower structure of the rotary adsorption device of the first embodiment. FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing the internal structure of the lower partition member of the rotary adsorber of the first embodiment. FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing the lower part of the rotary adsorber of the first embodiment with the lower partition member removed. FIG. 15 is a schematic front view of the rotary adsorption device of the first embodiment applied as an adsorption heat pump. FIG. 16 is a perspective view showing the internal lower structure of the rotary adsorption device of the first embodiment. FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing the internal lower structure of the rotary adsorption device of the second embodiment. FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing the internal structure of the rotary adsorber of the third embodiment. FIG. 19 is a perspective view showing the lower structure inside the rotary adsorber of the fourth embodiment.

The first embodiment of the rotary adsorption device 22 will be described below with reference to the drawings.

As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the rotary adsorber 22 has a rotating shaft 24 and an adsorber body 26. The rotating shaft 24 is rotated by a motor 96 (see Figure 1) in the direction of arrow R1 (see Figure 2) at a predetermined angular velocity. The motor 96 is an example of a "switching member" according to the technology disclosed herein.

The adsorber body 26 has four or more partition areas D1 (four in the illustrated example) partitioned circumferentially around the rotating shaft 24. Specifically, the adsorber body 26 has the same number of partition plates 28 as the partition areas D1, and the areas between the partition plates 28 are the partition areas D1. In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 2, the four partition plates 28 are fixed to the rotating shaft 24 by welding or the like, at 90-degree angles in the circumferential direction.

A blocking plate 30 is attached to the tip of each partition plate 28. The blocking plate 30 is curved like an arc of a constant radius centered on the rotation axis 24. Between the blocking plates 30, as described below, openings 32 are formed through which the first fluid passes as indicated by arrows F11. In other words, each partition area D1 has an opening 32 on the outer periphery.

The number of openings 32 is the same as the number of partitioned regions D1, and they are provided at regular intervals in the circumferential direction. In this embodiment, there are four partitioned regions D1, so an opening 32 is provided in each partitioned region D1, and the total number of openings 32 is four.

Each partitioned region D1 is provided with an adsorber 34. The adsorber 34 includes a heat transfer tube 36 and an adsorbent 38. The heat transfer tube 36 is a cylindrical pipe arranged to extend in the axial direction of the rotating shaft 24, and is fixed between and to a pair of fixing plates 40 (described below).

The adsorbent 38 is coated on the outer periphery of the heat transfer tube 36 in each partitioned area D1. The adsorbent 38 is made of a material capable of adsorbing the first fluid that is the target of adsorption by the rotary adsorber 22. Note that although only one adsorber 34 is shown in each partitioned area in the drawing, multiple adsorber 34 may be arranged in each partitioned area D1.

A pair of upper and lower fixed plates 40 are fixed to the rotating shaft 24 by welding or other means. Each fixed plate 40 is a disc-shaped member and is spaced apart in the axial direction of the rotating shaft 24. A partition plate 28, a blocking plate 30, and an adsorber 34 (heat transfer tube 36) are fixed between the fixed plates 40. Therefore, each partitioned area D1 exists as an area defined by the partition plate 28, the blocking plate 30, and the fixed plate 40, and when the rotating shaft 24 rotates, the partition plate 28, the blocking plate 30, and the adsorber 34 rotate as a unit.

As shown in Figures 3 to 6, the adsorber body 26 is housed in an outer frame 42. The outer frame 42 is a cylindrical member provided on the outer periphery of the adsorber body 26 (outside the closure plate 30). The outer frame 42 is fixed so that it does not rotate integrally with the rotating shaft 24.

The outer frame 42 has communication openings 50 formed that correspond to the openings 32 of the adsorber body 26. As shown in Figure 2, depending on the rotation angle of the adsorber body 26, the four openings 32 and the communication openings 50 correspond one-to-one. When the adsorber body 26 is in the state shown in Figure 2, the positions of the partitioned area D1 are distinguished as rotational positions A to D, respectively.

In contrast, for example, if the adsorber body 26 is rotated 45 degrees in the direction of arrow R1 from the state shown in Figure 2, the blocking plate 30 will be positioned at the communication port 50. The blocking plate 30 is sized to be able to block the communication port 50. In this state, each communication port 50 is blocked by the blocking plate 30, preventing fluid from entering or exiting the partitioned area D1. That is, from a state in which each communication port 50 is blocked by the blocking plate 30, the communication ports 50 are gradually opened as the adsorber body 26 rotates, and in the state shown in Figure 2, the position of the opening 32 coincides with the position of the communication port 50, and the communication port 50 is fully open. Then, as the adsorber body 26 rotates further, each communication port 50 is gradually blocked by the blocking plate 30.

As shown in Figures 3 and 4, an upper flange 44U and a lower flange 44L are formed at the upper and lower ends of the outer frame 42, respectively. As described below, an upper partition member 46 is attached to the upper flange 44U, and a lower partition member 48 is attached to the lower flange 44L.

An intermediate sealant 52 is attached to the outer peripheral surface of the closure plate 30. The intermediate sealant 52 is a sheet-like member shaped to avoid the opening 32. It is elastically compressed between the outer peripheral surface of the closure plate 30 and the inner peripheral surface of the outer frame 42, and is formed to a thickness that allows it to adhere closely to the inner peripheral surface of the outer frame 42. The intermediate sealant 52 seals the multiple partitioned areas D1 to prevent fluid from passing between them. The intermediate sealant 52 is an example of a "sealant" according to the technology disclosed herein. The intermediate sealant 52 may also be attached to the inner peripheral surface of the outer frame 42.

The rotary adsorption device 22 further includes an evaporation element 54 and a condensation element 60.

The evaporation member 54 includes an evaporator 56 and evaporator piping 58. The evaporator piping 58 connects the evaporator 56 to one of the communication ports 50 of the outer frame 42 (the communication port 50 corresponding to rotational position A). The evaporator 56 generates a first fluid to be adsorbed by the adsorbent 38. As shown by arrow F11, the first fluid flows into the partitioned region D1 at rotational position A through the opening 32 and communication port 50 of this partitioned region D1.

The condensing member 60 includes a condenser 62 and condenser piping 64. The condenser piping 64 connects the condenser 62 to one of the communication ports 50 of the outer frame 42 (the communication port 50 corresponding to rotational position C). The first fluid desorbed from the adsorbent 38 flows into the condenser 62 through the opening 32 and communication port 50 of the partitioned region D1 at rotational position C, as shown by arrow F12. The first fluid is condensed and liquefied by the condenser 62.

The heat transfer tubes 36 in the compartment area D1 at rotational position A are supplied with coolant from the coolant pipe 72, and the first fluid is adsorbed by the adsorbent 38. In other words, the compartment area D1 at rotational position A functions as an "adsorption area" where the first fluid is adsorbed by the adsorbent 38. The heat transfer tubes 36 in the compartment area D1 at rotational position C are supplied with a second fluid from the second evaporator 78, and the first fluid is desorbed from the adsorbent 38. In other words, the compartment area D1 at rotational position C functions as a "desorption area" where the first fluid is desorbed from the adsorbent. Rotational position B is located downstream of rotational position A in the direction of rotation and is the "adsorption downstream compartment area." Rotational position D is located downstream of rotational position C in the direction of rotation and is the "desorption downstream compartment area." In the compartment area D1 at rotational positions B and D, the adsorber 34 is not in communication with either the evaporator 56 or the condenser 62.

The communication port 50 corresponding to rotational position B and the communication port 50 corresponding to rotational position D are connected by a connection pipe 66. Therefore, the first fluid can move between the partitioned area D1 at rotational position B and the partitioned area D1 at rotational position D via the connection pipe 66, as shown by arrow F13.

The rotary adsorption device 22 further includes a cooling element 68 and a heating element 76.

The cooling member 68 has a coolant pump 70 and a coolant pipe 72. The coolant pipe 72 forms a flow path through which fluid circulates between the coolant pump 70 and the heat transfer tube 36 in the partitioned area D1 at rotational position A. The coolant pressurized by the coolant pump 70 returns to the coolant pump 70 via the heat transfer tube 36, as shown by arrow F21. The adsorbent 38 is then cooled by the coolant sent to the heat transfer tube 36. In this embodiment, water is used as the coolant, but a coolant other than water may also be used.

The coolant piping 72 from the heat transfer tube 36 to the coolant pump is provided with a recovery pipe 74 that branches off midway and is connected to the condenser 62. If some of the coolant evaporates as it passes through the heat transfer tube 36, this vapor is sent to the condenser 62 as shown by arrow F22, where it is condensed and liquefied.

A coolant tank for temporarily storing coolant may be provided midway along the flow path of the coolant piping 72.

The heating element 76 has a second evaporator 78 and a supply pipe 80. The supply pipe 80 connects the second evaporator 78 to the heat transfer tube 36 in the partitioned area D1 at rotational position C. The second evaporator 78 generates steam as a second fluid. The second fluid is sent from the second evaporator 78 through the supply pipe 80 to the heat transfer tube 36, as shown by arrow F23. The adsorbent 38 is then heated via the heat transfer tube 36.

Figures 7 to 10 show the upper structure of the adsorber body 26. Figures 11 to 14 show the lower structure of the adsorber body 26.

An upper partition member 46 is disposed above the adsorber body 26. The upper partition member 46 has a flat, bottomed, cylindrical upper cylindrical portion 102 and an upper flange 104 extending radially outward from the upper cylindrical portion 102. The upper flange 104 is joined to the upper flange 44U of the outer frame 42, thereby fixing the upper partition member 46 to the top of the outer frame 42.

As shown in FIG. 9, two upper partition plates 106 are provided inside the upper cylindrical portion 102. The interior of the upper cylindrical portion 102 is divided into an evaporator-side space 108 corresponding to the heat transfer tubes 36 in rotational position A, a sensible heat recovery space 110 corresponding to the heat transfer tubes 36 in rotational position B and rotational position D, and a condenser-side space 112 corresponding to the heat transfer tubes 36 in rotational position C.

A coolant nozzle 116 is provided in the evaporator-side space 108. The coolant that flows from the coolant pump 70 through the coolant piping 72 is sprayed from the coolant nozzle 116 into the evaporator-side space 108. The sprayed coolant flows into the heat transfer tube 36 in rotation position A.

The condenser side space 112 contains the second fluid sent from the second evaporator 78 to the heat transfer tube 36 at rotational position C.

The heat transfer tubes 36 in rotational position B and the heat transfer tubes 36 in rotational position D are in communication with each other through the sensible heat recovery space 110. The second fluid moves between the heat transfer tubes 36 in rotational position B and the heat transfer tubes 36 in rotational position D due to the pressure difference. This movement of the second fluid also moves sensible heat between the heat transfer tubes 36.

In addition, the sensible heat recovery space 110 is located between the evaporator side space 108 and the condenser side space 112, and also acts as an insulating area that suppresses heat transfer between the evaporator side space 108 and the condenser side space 112.

An upper sealant 114 that corresponds to the shape of the upper cylindrical portion 102 and the upper partition plate 106 is disposed between the fixed plate 40 and the upper partition member 46. The upper sealant 114 seals the evaporator-side space 108 and the sensible heat recovery space 110, and prevents fluids from passing between the evaporator-side space 108 and the sensible heat recovery space 110.

Figures 11 to 14 show the lower structure of the adsorber body 26.

A lower partition member 48 is disposed below the adsorber body 26. The lower partition member 48 has a flat, bottomed, cylindrical lower cylindrical portion 122 and a lower flange 124 extending radially outward from the lower cylindrical portion 122. The lower flange 124 is connected to the lower flange 44L of the outer frame 42, thereby fixing the lower partition member 48 to the lower portion of the outer frame 42.

As shown in FIG. 13 , a single lower partition plate 126 is provided inside the lower cylindrical portion 122. The lower partition plate 126 is positioned so as to cover, in plan view, the heat transfer tubes 36 in rotational position B and the heat transfer tubes 36 in rotational position D. Therefore, the interior of the lower cylindrical portion 122 is divided by the lower partition plate 126 into an evaporator-side space 128 corresponding to the heat transfer tubes 36 in rotational position A, and a condenser-side space 132 corresponding to the heat transfer tubes 36 in rotational position C.

The coolant pipe 72 is connected to the evaporator-side space 128. The coolant (and steam) that flows through the heat transfer tube 36 of the adsorber 34 in rotational position A flows from the evaporator-side space 128 into the coolant pipe 72.

The supply pipe 80 is connected to the condenser-side space 132. The second fluid produced in the second evaporator 78 flows from the supply pipe 80 through the condenser-side space 132 and into the heat transfer tube 36.

An insulating space 130 is provided at the bottom of the lower cylindrical portion 122. The insulating space 130 is formed in the same position as the lower partition plate 126, suppressing heat transfer between the evaporator-side space 128 and the condenser-side space 132.

A lower sealant 134, which corresponds to the shape of the lower cylindrical portion 122 and the lower partition plate 126, is disposed between the fixed plate 40 and the lower partition member 48. The lower sealant 134 seals the evaporator-side space 108 and the condenser-side space 132 to prevent fluid from passing between them.

Figure 16 shows a partial internal structure of the lower part of the adsorber body 26. In the first embodiment, a heat insulating material 136 is sandwiched between the outer peripheral surface 36G of the heat transfer tube 36 and the fixing plate 40 (specifically, the inner peripheral surface of the insertion hole through which the heat transfer tube 36 is inserted). The heat insulating material 136 is made of a material with higher insulating properties than the heat transfer tube 36 and the fixing plate 40.

In the example shown in Figure 16, the insulating material 136 is a flat, ring-shaped member. The inner diameter of the insulating material 136 is smaller than the outer diameter of the heat transfer tube 36, and the outer diameter of the insulating material 136 is smaller than the inner diameter of the insertion hole in the fixed plate 40. Therefore, the insulating material 136 is compressed radially between the heat transfer tube 36 and the fixed plate 40, sealing the gap between them.

Note that Figure 16, and Figures 17 and 19 described below, show the internal structure of the lower part of the adsorber body 26, but a similar internal structure is also applied to the upper part of the adsorber body 26.

Next, we will explain the operation and function of this embodiment.

In the rotary adsorber 22 of this embodiment, rotation of the rotary shaft 24 causes the adsorber body 26 to rotate as shown by arrow R1 in Figure 2. This rotation causes the four partitioned regions D1 to move from rotational position A to rotational position B to rotational position C to rotational position D. Below, we will focus on one partitioned region D1 and explain the operation associated with this positional movement.

In the partitioned region D1 at rotational position A, the opening 32 is in communication with the communication port 50. The first fluid supplied from the evaporator 56 flows into the partitioned region D1 as shown by arrow F11 in FIG. 1 and is adsorbed by the adsorbent 38 of the adsorber 34.

The coolant pump 70 sends the coolant to the heat transfer tube 36, as shown by arrow F21 in Figure 1, and cools the adsorbent 38. This promotes adsorption of the first fluid into the adsorbent 38. The coolant that passes through the heat transfer tube 36 is returned to the coolant pump 70 in liquid form, but the vapor generated by evaporation flows into the condenser 62 through the recovery pipe 74, as shown by arrow F22, where it is condensed and liquefied.

When the rotation of the adsorber body 26 brings this partitioned area D1 to rotational position B, the opening 32 communicates with the communication port 50 at rotational position B. In this state, as shown by arrow F13 in FIG. 2, the first fluid moves from the partitioned area D1 at rotational position D to the partitioned area D1 at rotational position B through the connecting pipe 66 due to a pressure difference. Furthermore, the second fluid moves from the heat transfer tube 36 at rotational position D through the sensible heat recovery space 110 to the heat transfer tube 36 at rotational position B.

As the adsorber body 26 rotates, the partitioned region D1 reaches rotational position C, connecting the opening 32 and the communication port 50. In this state, the second fluid (vapor) from the second evaporator 78 is sent through the supply pipe 80 to the heat transfer tube 36 at rotational position C, heating the adsorbent 38. The first fluid is then desorbed from the heated adsorbent 38, and the desorbed first fluid is condensed and liquefied in the condenser 62. At rotational position C, the first fluid is desorbed from the adsorber 34 in this manner, causing the partitioned region D1 to be at a relatively high pressure.

In addition, in this state, the heat transfer tube 36 at rotational position B and the heat transfer tube 36 at rotational position D are in communication with each other through the sensible heat recovery space 110. The second fluid inside the heat transfer tube 36 at rotational position D moves to the heat transfer tube 36 at rotational position B, as shown by arrow F13 in Figure 2. This movement of the second fluid also causes sensible heat to move between the heat transfer tubes 36.

Furthermore, as shown in Figure 7, the sensible heat recovery space 110 is located between the evaporator side space 108 and the condenser side space 112, and heat transfer between the evaporator side space 108 and the condenser side space 112 is suppressed by the sensible heat recovery space 110, which acts as an insulating space.

When the adsorber body 26 continues to rotate, the partitioned area D1 reaches rotational position D, and the opening 32 communicates with the communication port 50 at this rotational position D. In other words, the partitioned area D1 at rotational position D and the partitioned area D1 at rotational position B are connected by the connecting pipe 66.

In the partitioned region D1 at rotational position D, the high pressure state that was reached at rotational position C continues. In particular, the pressure is relatively high compared to the partitioned region D1 at rotational position B. Therefore, the first fluid moves from the partitioned region D1 at rotational position D to the partitioned region D1 at rotational position B through the connecting pipe 66 due to the pressure difference.

Furthermore, in the heat transfer tube 36 at rotational position D, the second fluid moves through the sensible heat recovery space 110 to the heat transfer tube 36 at rotational position B.

Then, as the suction device main body 26 rotates, the partitioned area D1 returns to rotation position A. Thereafter, the same operation as above is repeated.

As shown in FIG. 16 , a heat insulating material 136 is sandwiched between the outer circumferential surface 36G of the heat transfer tube 36 and the fixed plate 40, insulating the heat transfer tube 36 from the fixed plate 40 without direct contact. Therefore, compared to a structure without such a heat insulating material 136, heat from the heat transfer tube 36 is less likely to be transferred to the fixed plate 40 and the partition plate 28, making it less likely for the temperature of the heat transfer tube 36 to change. For example, a heat transfer tube 36 in rotation position A is cooled by the coolant, but the cold heat of this heat transfer tube 36 is less likely to be transferred to the fixed plate 40 and the partition plate 28. A heat transfer tube 36 in rotation position C is heated by the second fluid, but the warmth of this heat transfer tube 36 is also less likely to be transferred to the fixed plate 40 and the partition plate 28.

In addition, heat from the heat transfer tubes 36 is not easily transferred to the partition plates 28 located on both circumferential sides of the heat transfer tubes 36, so temperature changes in the partitioned area D1 separated by the partition plates 28 are also suppressed.

In this way, the first embodiment suppresses sensible heat loss caused by heat transfer from the heat transfer tubes 36 to the fixed plate 40. In particular, an insulating structure is obtained that provides thermal insulation between the heat transfer tubes 36 in rotational position A and the heat transfer tubes 36 in rotational position C.

Furthermore, the heat transfer tubes 36 in rotational position B and the heat transfer tubes 36 in rotational position D are connected via the sensible heat recovery space 110. This sensible heat recovery space 110 is located between the evaporator-side space 108 and the condenser-side space 112, and acts as an insulating space that suppresses heat transfer between the evaporator-side space 108 and the condenser-side space 112. Therefore, with a simple structure, heat transfer between the heat transfer tubes 36 cooled by the coolant (heat transfer tubes 36 in rotational position A and relatively low temperature) and the heat transfer tubes 36 heated by the second fluid (heat transfer tubes 36 in rotational position C and relatively high temperature) can be suppressed, thereby suppressing sensible heat loss.

Next, we will explain the second embodiment. In the second embodiment, elements, components, etc. that are similar to those in the first embodiment will be assigned the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment, and detailed explanations will be omitted. In addition, the overall configuration of the rotary adsorption device is the same as in the first embodiment, so it will not be illustrated.

As shown in Figure 17, in the second embodiment of the rotary adsorption device 222, a groove 224 surrounding the heat transfer tube 36 is formed on the inner surface 40N of the fixed plate 40. In the example shown in Figure 17, the groove 224 is rectangular when viewed in the longitudinal direction of the heat transfer tube 36, but the shape of the groove 224 is not limited thereto and may be a polygon other than a rectangle, a circle, an ellipse, etc.

The cross-sectional area of the fixed plate 40 in the direction perpendicular to the thickness direction is partially reduced by the grooves 224. In other words, the cross-sectional area of the heat transfer path from the heat transfer tube 36 to the portion of the fixed plate 40 outside the grooves 224 is reduced, creating a thermally insulating structure.

An insulating material 226 is embedded in the groove 224. Similar to the insulating material 136 in the first embodiment, this insulating material 226 is made of a material with higher insulating properties than the heat transfer tube 36 and the fixing plate 40.

In the second embodiment configured as described above, the grooves 224 insulate the heat transfer tubes 36 from the fixing plate 40 (the portion outside the grooves 224). The insulating material 226 embedded in the grooves 224 also provides insulating properties. Therefore, compared to a structure without the grooves 224, heat from the heat transfer tubes 36 is less likely to be transferred to the fixing plate 40 (the portion outside the grooves 224) and the partition plate 28, making it less likely that temperature changes will occur in the heat transfer tubes 36. Furthermore, because heat from the heat transfer tubes 36 is less likely to be transferred to the partition plate 28, temperature changes in the partitioned area D1 separated by the partition plate 28 are also suppressed.

In this way, even in the second embodiment, sensible heat loss caused by heat transfer from the heat transfer tube 36 to the fixed plate 40 is suppressed. In particular, an insulating structure is obtained that provides thermal insulation between the heat transfer tube 36 in rotation position A and the heat transfer tube 36 in rotation position C.

In the second embodiment, the insulating material 226 may not be embedded in the groove 224. In other words, even if the insulating material 226 is not embedded, the formation of the groove 224 reduces the cross-sectional area of the path through which heat is transferred from the heat transfer tube 36 to the fixed plate 40, thereby providing an insulating effect. Furthermore, a thermally insulating structure can be achieved with the simple configuration of forming the groove 224 in the fixed plate 40.

Next, we will explain the third embodiment. In the third embodiment, elements, components, etc. that are similar to those in the first and second embodiments are given the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment, and detailed explanations will be omitted. Furthermore, since the overall configuration of the rotary adsorption device is the same as in the first embodiment, it will not be illustrated.

As shown in Figure 18, in the third embodiment of the rotary adsorption device 322, heat insulating material 324 is attached to one or both sides of the partition plate 28.

In the third embodiment configured as described above, even if heat from the heat transfer tubes 36 acts on the fixing plate 40, it is less likely to act on the partition plate 28. Compared to a configuration in which the insulating material 324 is not attached to the partition plate 28, temperature changes in the heat transfer tubes 36 are less likely to occur, and temperature changes in the partitioned area D1 partitioned by the partition plate 28 are also suppressed.

The heat-insulating structure can be constructed simply by attaching the heat-insulating material 324 to the partition plate 28.

In the third embodiment, the partition plate 28 itself may be formed from a material having thermal insulation. This thermal insulating material is a material that can function as the partition plate 28, i.e., can divide the area around the rotating shaft 24 into multiple partitioned regions D1, and has higher thermal insulation properties than the heat transfer tube 36, fixing plate 40, and partition plate 28. For example, the same material as the thermal insulating material 136 in the first embodiment or the thermal insulating material 226 in the second embodiment can be used.

In this way, by forming the partition plate 28 itself from a material with insulating properties, there is no need to install additional insulating material. Furthermore, the volume of the partition area D1 is not reduced by the insulating material.

In addition, in the third embodiment, the partition plate 28 may have a hollow portion inside, for example, in the middle part in the thickness direction, so that the partition plate 28 forms a thermally insulating structure.

Next, we will explain the fourth embodiment. In the fourth embodiment, elements, components, etc. that are similar to those in the first to third embodiments are given the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment, and detailed explanations will be omitted. Furthermore, since the overall configuration of the rotary adsorption device is similar to that of the first embodiment, it will not be illustrated.

As shown in Figure 19, in the fourth embodiment of the rotary adsorption device 422, a groove 424 is formed on the inner surface 40N of the fixed plate 40 along the partition plate 28.

The cross-sectional area of the fixing plate 40 in the direction perpendicular to the thickness direction is partially reduced by the grooves 424. In other words, the cross-sectional area of the heat transfer path from the heat transfer tubes 36 to the partition plate 28 is reduced, creating an insulating structure.

An insulating material 426 is embedded in the groove 424. Similar to the insulating material 136 in the first embodiment, this insulating material 426 is made of a material with higher insulating properties than the heat transfer tube 36 and the fixing plate 40.

In the fourth embodiment configured as described above, the grooves 424 insulate the heat transfer tubes 36 from the partition plate 28. The insulating material 426 embedded in the grooves 424 also has an insulating effect. Therefore, compared to a structure without the grooves 424, heat from the heat transfer tubes 36 is less likely to be transferred to the partition plate 28, and temperature changes in the heat transfer tubes 36 are less likely to occur. Furthermore, temperature changes in the partitioned area D1 separated by the partition plate 28 are also suppressed.

In this way, even in the fourth embodiment, sensible heat loss caused by heat transfer from the heat transfer tube 36 to the fixed plate 40 is suppressed.

In the fourth embodiment, as in the second embodiment, the insulating material 426 may not be embedded in the groove 424. In other words, even in a structure where the insulating material 426 is not embedded, the formation of the groove 424 reduces the cross-sectional area of the path through which heat is transferred from the heat transfer tube 36 to the partition plate 28, thereby providing an insulating effect. Furthermore, a thermally insulating structure can be achieved with the simple structure of forming the groove 424 in the fixing plate 40.

The structures shown in Figures 16 to 19 above can be applied individually to the rotary adsorption device, but they can also be applied in appropriate combinations to create a configuration that further enhances thermal insulation.

The insulating material used in each embodiment of this application may be a material that is less likely to conduct heat than the components to be insulated, such as the heat transfer tubes 36, the fixed plate 40, and the partition plate 28. For example, a thermal conductivity of 1 W/(m·k) or less will provide sufficient insulating effect. Specific examples of insulating materials include those with a closed-cell structure (e.g., "Aeroflex").

Note that, in the technology disclosed herein, the number of partitioned regions D1 may be multiple. In other words, if there are two or more partitioned regions D1, one of the partitioned regions D1 can be connected to the evaporator and the connecting member 54, and the other can be connected to the condensing member 60, thereby realizing a rotary evaporator according to the technology disclosed herein.

The rotary adsorption device of this embodiment can be used as a heat pump. Specifically, as shown as an example in Figure 15, an object to be cooled 92 is installed corresponding to the evaporator 56, and an object to be heated 94 is installed corresponding to the condenser 62. In this configuration, heat is transferred from the object to be cooled 92 to the evaporator 56, where steam is generated as a first fluid and the object to be cooled 92 is cooled. Furthermore, the first fluid is condensed in the condenser 62, and heat is transferred from the condenser 62 to the object to be heated 94, heating the object to be heated 94.

22 Rotary adsorption device 24 Rotating shaft 26 Adsorber body 28 Partition plate 30 Closure plate 32 Opening 34 Adsorber 36 Heat transfer tube 36G Outer peripheral surface 38 Adsorbent 40 Fixing plate 40N Inner surface 42 Outer frame 44L Lower flange 44U Upper flange 46 Upper partition member 48 Lower partition member 50 Communication port 52 Intermediate seal member 54 Evaporation member 56 Evaporator 58 Evaporator piping 60 Condenser member 62 Condenser 64 Condenser piping 66 Connection piping 68 Cooling member 70 Coolant pump 72 Coolant piping 74 Recovery piping 76 Heating member 78 Second evaporator 80 Supply piping 92 Cooling object 94 Heating object 96 Motor 102 Upper cylindrical portion 104 Upper flange 106 Upper partition plate 108 Evaporator-side space 110 Sensible heat recovery space 112 Condenser-side space 114 Upper seal 116, coolant nozzle 122, lower cylindrical portion 124, lower flange 126, lower partition plate 128, evaporator-side space 130, heat-insulating space 132, condenser-side space 134, lower seal 136, heat insulating material 222, rotary adsorber 224, groove 226, heat insulating material 322, rotary adsorber 324, heat insulating material 422, rotary adsorber 424, groove 426, heat insulating material

Claims (10)

A rotation axis;
an adsorber body that rotates around the rotation shaft, the adsorber body including a plurality of partitioned areas that are partitioned in a circumferential direction around the rotation shaft by partition plates and have openings on their outer peripheral sides;
an adsorber including a heat transfer tube extending in an axial direction of the rotary shaft in each of the compartment regions, and an adsorbent arranged around the heat transfer tube inside the compartment region and configured to adsorb and desorb a first fluid;
an evaporation member connected to the opening of one of the partitioned regions and configured to generate the first fluid;
a condensing member connected to the opening in a partitioned region different from the partitioned region communicating with the evaporation member and configured to condense the first fluid;
a cooling member that supplies a cooling liquid for cooling the adsorbent to the heat transfer tubes in the partitioned region that are located in communication with the evaporation member;
a heating element for supplying a second fluid for heating the adsorbent to the heat transfer tubes of the compartmented region located in communication with the condensing element;
a pair of fixing plates arranged at a distance in the axial direction of the rotary shaft, to which the heat transfer tubes and the partition plates are fixed;
a heat insulating structure including a groove formed around a fixed portion of the fixing plate to which the heat transfer tube is fixed and which partially thins the fixing plate, thereby providing thermal insulation between the fixing plate and the heat transfer tube or between the fixing plate and the partition plate;
a switching member that rotates the rotary shaft and periodically switches between the partitioned region that communicates with the evaporation member and the partitioned region that communicates with the condensation member;
A rotary adsorption device having: 2. The rotary adsorber of claim 1 , wherein the thermal insulation structure includes a thermal insulator disposed in the groove. 3. The rotary adsorber according to claim 1 , wherein the heat insulating structure includes a heat insulating material sandwiched between the fixed plate and the heat transfer tube. A rotation axis;
an adsorber body that rotates around the rotation shaft, the adsorber body including a plurality of partitioned areas that are partitioned in a circumferential direction around the rotation shaft by partition plates and have openings on their outer peripheral sides;
an adsorber including a heat transfer tube extending in an axial direction of the rotary shaft in each of the compartment regions, and an adsorbent arranged around the heat transfer tube inside the compartment region and configured to adsorb and desorb a first fluid;
an evaporation member connected to the opening of one of the partitioned regions and configured to generate the first fluid;
a condensing member connected to the opening in a partitioned region different from the partitioned region communicating with the evaporation member and configured to condense the first fluid;
a cooling member that supplies a cooling liquid for cooling the adsorbent to the heat transfer tubes in the partitioned region that are located in communication with the evaporation member;
a heating element for supplying a second fluid for heating the adsorbent to the heat transfer tubes of the compartmented region located in communication with the condensing element;
a switching member that rotates the rotary shaft and periodically switches between the partitioned region that communicates with the evaporation member and the partitioned region that communicates with the condensation member;
a pair of fixing plates arranged at a distance in the axial direction of the rotary shaft, to which the heat transfer tubes and the partition plates are fixed;
a heat insulating structure including a groove formed in a fixing portion of the fixing plate to fix the partition plate and to partially thin the fixing plate, thereby insulating the partition plate;
A rotary adsorption device having: 5. The rotary adsorber of claim 4 , wherein the thermal insulation structure includes a thermal insulator disposed in the groove. 5. The rotary adsorber according to claim 4 , wherein the heat insulating structure is constructed by forming the partition plates from a heat insulating material. 7. The rotary adsorption device according to claim 4 , wherein the heat insulating structure includes a heat insulating material attached to the partition plate. A rotation axis;
an adsorber body that rotates around the rotation shaft, the adsorber body including a plurality of partitioned areas that are partitioned in a circumferential direction around the rotation shaft by partition plates and have openings on their outer peripheral sides;
an adsorber including a heat transfer tube extending in an axial direction of the rotary shaft in each of the compartment regions, and an adsorbent arranged around the heat transfer tube inside the compartment region and configured to adsorb and desorb a first fluid;
an evaporation member connected to the opening of one of the partitioned regions and configured to generate the first fluid;
a condensing member connected to the opening in a partitioned region different from the partitioned region communicating with the evaporation member and configured to condense the first fluid;
a cooling member that supplies a cooling liquid for cooling the adsorbent to the heat transfer tubes in the partitioned region that are located in communication with the evaporation member;
a heating element for supplying a second fluid for heating the adsorbent to the heat transfer tubes of the compartmented region located in communication with the condensing element;
a heat insulating structure including two partition plates disposed between the heat transfer tubes to which the cooling liquid is supplied and the heat transfer tubes to which the second fluid is supplied, and defining a heat insulating region between the partition plates that insulates the heat transfer tubes to which the cooling liquid is supplied and the heat transfer tubes to which the second fluid is supplied ;
a switching member that rotates the rotary shaft and periodically switches between the partitioned region that communicates with the evaporation member and the partitioned region that communicates with the condensation member;
A rotary adsorption device having: 9. The rotary adsorption device according to claim 1, further comprising a seal material for preventing the first fluid from flowing in and out of the plurality of partitioned regions. 10. The rotary adsorber according to claim 9 , wherein the sealing material is sponge rubber having a closed-cell structure.