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Industrial Research And Consultancy Centre
Patent
Solid State Elastocaloric based Cooling Devices and Methods Thereof
Abstract

This invention introduces a cutting-edge solid-state elastocaloric cooling technology utilizing NiTi shape memory alloys (SMA) to address the environmental and energy efficiency challenges posed by traditional vapor compression (VC) systems. Unlike conventional systems that rely on high Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerants, this innovative solution operates without refrigerants, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The technology incorporates advanced designs featuring cyclic devices driven by linear actuators and copper blocks for enhanced heat transfer, achieving high heat recovery effectiveness. By integrating heat and work recovery mechanisms, the system delivers superior energy efficiency and performance at larger temperature lifts, making it a sustainable and effective alternative for various cooling applications.

Societal Impact

Adopting this technology can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption in cooling applications, contributing to environmental sustainability and compliance with stricter regulations on refrigerants .

Salient technical features and Advantages of the Technology
  • The system operates without refrigerants, eliminating the use of high Global Warming Potential (GWP) substances, thus significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions. 
  • The integration of heat and work recovery mechanisms enhances the overall energy efficiency, enabling the system to achieve higher coefficients of performance (COP) even at larger temperature lifts. 
  • The technology features cyclic devices driven by linear actuators and copper blocks for superior heat transfer. These designs maximize heat recovery effectiveness, setting it apart from other solid-state cooling methods such as magnetocaloric and thermoelastic cooling. 
  • The use of NiTi SMA materials and the system's scalable design make it suitable for a wide range of cooling applications, from residential air conditioning to automotive climate control and portable electronic cooling devices.


Technology readiness level

3

Relevant Industries

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), Refrigeration, Consumer electronics, Automotive industry

Applications or Domain

The technology can be applied in various domains, including residential and commercial air conditioning, refrigeration units, automotive climate control systems, and potentially in portable electronic cooling devices.