Invention Reference Number
This innovation introduces a refrigerator that combines a thermoelectric (TE) cooler with a traditional vapor compression (VC) refrigeration system. The TE cooler specifically regulates the temperature within the freezer compartment. Meanwhile, the VC evaporator drives an antifreeze coolant loop that stores cooling energy, helping to maintain the temperatures in both the freezer and fresh food compartments during off-peak electricity hours. During peak electricity hours, the TE cooler, which is readily battery-powered, maintains the freezer compartment temperature while releasing heat to the antifreeze coolant storage. This design reduces compressor cyclic loss by extending the compressor's off time.
Description
This innovative system merges thermoelectric (TE) and vapor compression (VC) technologies to enhance refrigeration efficiency and reduce utility costs. The thermoelectric cooler regulates the freezer's temperature by discharging heat to an energy storage system, while the vapor compression system manages the overall chamber temperatures and produces additional energy storage. This hybrid design enhances temperature control and enables faster cooling when fresh food is loaded into the refrigerator.
Benefits
- Improved efficiency: The integration of thermoelectric cooling with a vapor compression system reduces compressor size, minimizes cyclic loss, enhances energy efficiency, and ensures more efficient evaporating temperatures.
- Enhanced temperature control: The system minimizes temperature fluctuations in the freezer compartment, particularly during fresh food loading and defrosting operations.
- Grid-responsive cooling: The thermoelectric system optimizes cooling based on electricity demand, helping to reduce power consumption during peak hours.
Applications and Industries
- Domestic and commercial refrigerators/freezers and ice making machines
Contact:
To learn more about this technology, email partnerships@ornl.gov or call 865-574-1051.
