System optimization of a heat-switch-based electrocaloric heat pump

Realization of the potential of electrocaloric heat pumps includes consideration of not only material properties but also device characteristics and cycle operation. We present detailed models and analysis that elucidate the key parameters for performance optimization. We show that the temperature lift, cooling power, and efficiency of a system driven by heat switches depend on system operating conditions and the combined thermal properties of both the heat switches and the electrocaloric capacitor. We show experimental results that validate the models and draw conclusions about building high-performance systems. (C) 2015 AIP Publishing LLC.