초록 ▼

The method of the invention employs ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic elements, preferably of rare-earth based material, for example, gadolinium, and preferably employs a regenerator. The steps of the method comprise controlling the temperature and applied magnetic field of the element to cause the sta

The method of the invention employs ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic elements, preferably of rare-earth based material, for example, gadolinium, and preferably employs a regenerator. The steps of the method comprise controlling the temperature and applied magnetic field of the element to cause the state of the element as represented on a temperature-magnetic entropy diagram repeatedly to traverse a loop. The loop may have a first portion of concurrent substantially isothermal or constant temperature and increasing applied magnetic field, a second portion of lowering temperature and constant applied magnetic field, a third portion of isothermal and decreasing applied magnetic field, and a fourth portion of increasing temperature and constant applied magnetic field. Other loops may be four-sided, with, for example, two isotherms and two adiabats (constant entropy portions). Preferably, a regenerator may be employed to enhance desired cooling or heating effects, with varied magnetic fields or varying temperatures including three-sided figures traversed by the representative point.

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