JP2011174626A - Fuel cell system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To avoid power generation from coming to a stop in such a situation that hot water stored in a hot water storage tank has not been used (or turned on) for a while. <P>SOLUTION: It is configured such that, when the temperature of hot water in the bottom of the hot water storage tank 1 keeps increasing, and is likely to reach, if continues increasing, the preset temperature to stop the system, an operation controller 11 controls a notifying tool (a display screen) of a remote controller 12 to encourage a user to use the hot water from a hot water supply pipe 6 within a prescribed period. This configuration allows avoiding, by making the user use the hot water in the storage tank 1, power generation from coming to a stop in the situation that the hot water in the hot water storage tank 1 has not been used (or turned on) for a while, and the temperature of the hot water in the bottom of the hot water storage tank 1 reaches the preset temperature to stop the system. The avoidance of the stop of power generation leads therefore to an efficient operation. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a fuel cell system that generates power and collects exhaust heat generated by power generation and uses it for hot water supply.

  A cogeneration apparatus such as a fuel cell system recovers and stores heat generated by a power generation system provided with power generation means and power generated by the power generation means, and uses the heat as effective output heat energy. In order to avoid the stop of the apparatus accompanying the full amount of heat storage, it is comprised from the utilization heat | fever utilization promotion system which promotes utilization of the effective output thermal energy in a waste heat utilization system.

  The waste heat utilization promotion system compares the reference pattern with the current operation state and calculates the operation continuation possible time to predict the operation stop and the operation stop according to the obtained stop prediction information. The user is notified in advance using an image or sound (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2005-114344 A

  In a fuel cell system, it is necessary to stop power generation when there is no use of hot water in the hot water storage tank (hot water supply) and the predetermined condition is satisfied, and the amount of fuel gas used is less than the predetermined amount at home. If this continues for 12 hours, it is necessary to stop power generation or reduce the output in response to gas leakage.

  In view of the above-described conventional problems, the present invention stops power generation due to the continued absence of hot water in the hot water storage tank (hot water supply) or the state where the amount of fuel gas used at a predetermined amount or less continues at home. An object of the present invention is to provide a fuel cell system capable of avoiding the stoppage of power generation and the decrease in power generation output due to the above.

  In order to achieve the above object, a fuel cell system according to a first aspect of the present invention includes a hot water storage tank, tank lower hot water temperature detecting means for detecting the temperature of hot water in the lower part of the hot water storage tank, and one end at the lower part of the hot water storage tank. The other end communicates with the upper part of the hot water storage tank, and heat recovery piping having a heat recovery heat exchanger for recovering exhaust heat generated during power generation of the fuel cell, and hot water in the upper part of the hot water storage tank are supplied. A hot water supply pipe, a water supply pipe that communicates with the lower part of the hot water storage tank so as to keep hot water in the hot water storage tank at a predetermined amount, and hot water in the hot water storage tank is introduced from the lower part of the hot water storage tank to introduce the hot water storage tank. A hot water storage tank circulation pump for circulating hot water in the heat recovery pipe in a direction to return to the upper part in the tank, and a remote controller having a notification means, and the temperature of the hot water temperature detection means in the tank lower part stops the system The notification means when it exceeds a predetermined temperature lower than the system stop temperature that is needed is configured to prompt the performing hot water supply operation from the hot water supply pipe within a predetermined time to the user.

  In the above configuration, the use of hot water in the hot water storage tank (hot water supply) is low, the temperature of the hot water in the lower part of the hot water storage tank rises, and the heat dissipation efficiency of the fuel cell deteriorates, and the hot water in the hot water storage tank is used as it is. If there is no (hot water supply), the notification means will notify the user in the event that the temperature of the hot water in the lower part of the hot water storage tank will soon rise and the system will stop, reaching the system stop temperature. Encourage the user to perform hot water supply operation from the hot water supply pipe within the specified time, so the user is more likely to perform hot water supply operation from the hot water supply pipe within the predetermined time. If the hot water in the hot water storage tank is reduced, water is supplied to the lower part of the hot water storage tank, and the temperature of the hot water in the lower part of the hot water storage tank is lowered.

  Therefore, it is possible to avoid the stoppage of power generation due to the continued absence of hot water in the hot water storage tank (hot water supply).

  The fuel cell system according to the second aspect of the present invention recovers exhaust heat during power generation of the fuel cell in the middle of the hot water storage tank and one end communicating with the lower part of the hot water storage tank and the other end communicating with the upper part of the hot water storage tank. A heat recovery pipe having a heat exchanger for heat recovery, a hot water supply pipe for supplying hot water in the upper part of the hot water storage tank, and a hot water in the hot water storage tank so as to keep a predetermined amount in communication with the lower part of the hot water storage tank. A hot water supply pipe for supplying water, a hot water storage tank circulation pump for circulating hot water in the heat recovery pipe in a direction to introduce hot water in the hot water storage tank from the lower part in the hot water storage tank and return it to the upper part in the hot water storage tank, and the hot water supply pipe Or a flow rate sensor for detecting the flow rate of the water supply pipe, a timer for measuring an elapsed time since the flow rate sensor recently detected no substantial flow rate, and a remote control having the notification means, When the elapsed time measured by the imager exceeds a predetermined time shorter than the time required for heat recovery pipe heat sterilization, the notification means prompts the user to perform a hot water supply operation from the hot water supply pipe within the predetermined time. It is configured as follows.

  In the above configuration, if there is no use of hot water in the hot water storage tank (hot water supply) and if there continues to be no use of hot water in the hot water storage tank (hot water supply), heat sterilization treatment of the heat recovery pipe will soon be performed In such a case, the notification means prompts the user to perform the hot water supply operation from the hot water supply pipe within a predetermined time, so that the user performs the hot water supply operation from the hot water supply pipe within the predetermined time. If the user performs hot water supply operation from the hot water supply pipe within a predetermined time, the elapsed time since the flow sensor has recently detected that there is no substantial flow rate in the hot water supply pipe or water supply pipe is measured. Since the timer is reset and the start of the heat sterilization process of the heat recovery pipe is postponed until the next condition of the heat recovery pipe heat sterilization process is satisfied, it is possible to avoid stopping the power generation.

  Therefore, it is possible to avoid the stoppage of power generation due to the continued absence of hot water in the hot water storage tank (hot water supply).

  The fuel cell system according to the third aspect of the present invention recovers exhaust heat generated during fuel cell power generation in the middle of a hot water storage tank and one end communicating with the lower part of the hot water storage tank and the other end communicating with the upper part of the hot water storage tank. A heat recovery pipe having a heat exchanger for heat recovery, a hot water supply pipe for supplying hot water in the upper part of the hot water storage tank, and a hot water in the hot water storage tank so as to keep a predetermined amount in communication with the lower part of the hot water storage tank. A hot water storage pipe for supplying water, a hot water storage tank circulation pump for circulating hot water in the heat recovery pipe in a direction to introduce hot water in the hot water storage tank from the lower part of the hot water storage tank and return it to the upper part of the hot water storage tank, and the hot water storage tank A gas water heater that heats hot water flowing in the hot water or the hot water supply pipe when necessary, a remote control having the notification means, a gas meter for detecting the amount of fuel gas used at home, and the fuel A gas flow sensor for detecting the amount of fuel gas used by the battery, and the notification means is used by the user when the amount of fuel gas detected by the gas meter continues for a predetermined time shorter than 12 hours. In addition, it is configured to encourage the consumption of fuel gas by a household gas appliance within a predetermined time.

  In the above configuration, if the amount of fuel gas used continues to be below a predetermined amount at home, and if the amount of fuel gas used continues to be below the predetermined amount at home, the amount of fuel gas used at home is a predetermined amount. When the following state reaches 12 hours and the operation corresponding to the gas leakage is performed and the power generation must be stopped or the output must be reduced, the notification means notifies the user of the gas appliance in the home within a predetermined time. The user is more likely to consume the fuel gas with the gas appliance at home within a predetermined time, and the user with the gas appliance at home within the predetermined time. If the fuel gas is consumed, the state where the amount of fuel gas used is less than the predetermined amount is interrupted at home, and the start of the gas leak response operation is postponed until the next gas leak response condition is satisfied. Stop or low output The can be avoided.

  Therefore, it is possible to avoid the stoppage of power generation and the decrease in output due to the state where the amount of fuel gas used is below a predetermined amount at home.

  According to the present invention, when the temperature of the hot water in the lower part of the hot water storage tank has risen and there is a risk of reaching the system stop temperature, or there is no use of hot water in the hot water storage tank (hot water supply). Subsequently, when there is a possibility that the condition of the heat sterilization treatment of the heat recovery pipe may be satisfied, the notification means prompts the user to perform the hot water supply operation from the hot water supply pipe within a predetermined time. The hot water in the hot water storage tank can be used to avoid the stoppage of power generation due to the continued absence of hot water in the hot water storage tank (hot water supply), and efficient operation can be performed by avoiding the stoppage of power generation .

  Also, if the amount of fuel gas used at home continues to be less than or equal to a predetermined amount and there is a risk of satisfying the gas leakage response condition, the notification means will notify the user of the gas in the home within a predetermined time. Since it encourages the consumption of fuel gas by the appliance, the user can consume the fuel gas with the gas appliance in the home, and stop or output the power when the amount of fuel gas used in the home continues below the specified amount. Thus, efficient operation can be performed by stopping power generation or avoiding a decrease in output.

1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a fuel cell system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. A flowchart showing a procedure for prompting a user to perform a specific action in the fuel cell system according to the embodiment. Explanatory drawing which shows the screen of the remote control which urges the user to perform a specific action in the fuel cell system of the embodiment The flowchart which shows the procedure which prompts a user specific action in the fuel cell system of Embodiment 2 of this invention. Explanatory drawing which shows the screen of the remote control which urges the user to perform a specific action in the fuel cell system of the embodiment 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a fuel cell system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. A flowchart showing a procedure for prompting a user to perform a specific action in the fuel cell system according to the embodiment. Explanatory drawing which shows the screen of the remote control which urges the user to perform a specific action in the fuel cell system of the embodiment

  A first aspect of the present invention is a hot water storage tank, tank lower hot water temperature detecting means for detecting the temperature of hot water in the lower part of the hot water tank, one end communicating with the lower part in the hot water tank, and the other end communicating with the upper part in the hot water tank. A heat recovery pipe having a heat recovery heat exchanger for recovering exhaust heat generated during fuel cell power generation, a hot water supply pipe for supplying hot water in the upper part of the hot water storage tank, and a lower part in the hot water storage tank. A water supply pipe for supplying hot water in the hot water storage tank so as to keep a predetermined amount, and hot water in the hot water storage tank is introduced from the lower part in the hot water storage tank and returned to the upper part in the hot water storage tank. A hot water storage tank circulation pump for circulating hot water and a remote control having a notification means are provided, and the temperature of the tank lower hot water temperature detection means exceeds a predetermined temperature lower than the system stop temperature at which the system needs to be stopped. Is a fuel cell system prompts the user to do hot water supply operation from the hot water supply pipe within the predetermined time the notification unit to the user when the.

  In the above configuration, the use of hot water in the hot water storage tank (hot water supply) is low, the temperature of the hot water in the lower part of the hot water storage tank rises, and the heat dissipation efficiency of the fuel cell deteriorates, and the hot water in the hot water storage tank is used as it is. If there is no (hot water supply), the notification means will notify the user in the event that the temperature of the hot water in the lower part of the hot water storage tank will soon rise and the system will stop, reaching the system stop temperature. Encourage the user to perform hot water supply operation from the hot water supply pipe within the specified time, so the user is more likely to perform hot water supply operation from the hot water supply pipe within the predetermined time. If the hot water in the hot water storage tank is reduced, water is supplied to the lower part of the hot water storage tank, and the temperature of the hot water in the lower part of the hot water storage tank is lowered.

  Therefore, when the temperature of the hot water in the lower part of the hot water storage tank has risen and there is a possibility that the system stop temperature may be reached, the notification means will perform the hot water supply operation from the hot water supply pipe to the user within a predetermined time. Therefore, let the user use the hot water in the hot water storage tank, the hot water in the hot water storage tank will not be used (hot water supply), and the temperature of the hot water in the lower part of the hot water tank will reach the system stop temperature Therefore, it is possible to avoid the stoppage of power generation due to the above, and it is possible to execute an efficient operation by avoiding the stoppage of power generation.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a hot water storage tank and a heat recovery heat exchanger that recovers exhaust heat during power generation of the fuel cell while one end communicates with the lower part of the hot water storage tank and the other end communicates with the upper part of the hot water storage tank. A hot water supply pipe for supplying hot water in the upper part of the hot water storage tank, a water supply pipe for supplying hot water in the hot water storage tank so as to keep a predetermined amount in communication with the lower part of the hot water tank, and A hot water storage tank circulation pump that circulates hot water in the heat recovery pipe in a direction to introduce hot water in the hot water storage tank from the lower part in the hot water storage tank and return to the upper part in the hot water storage tank, and a flow rate of the hot water supply pipe or the water supply pipe A flow sensor for detecting, a timer for measuring an elapsed time since the flow sensor recently detected that there is no substantial flow, and a remote controller having the notification means, and an elapsed time measured by the timer. The notification means to a user when the recovery pipe heat sterilization exceeds a predetermined short time than necessary to become time is a fuel cell system prompts the user to do hot water supply operation from the hot water supply pipe within a predetermined time.

  In the above configuration, if there is no use of hot water in the hot water storage tank (hot water supply) and if there continues to be no use of hot water in the hot water storage tank (hot water supply), heat sterilization treatment of the heat recovery pipe will soon be performed In such a case, the notification means prompts the user to perform the hot water supply operation from the hot water supply pipe within a predetermined time, so that the user performs the hot water supply operation from the hot water supply pipe within the predetermined time. If the user performs hot water supply operation from the hot water supply pipe within a predetermined time, the elapsed time since the flow sensor has recently detected that there is no substantial flow rate in the hot water supply pipe or water supply pipe is measured. Since the timer is reset and the start of the heat sterilization process of the heat recovery pipe is postponed until the next condition of the heat recovery pipe heat sterilization process is satisfied, it is possible to avoid stopping the power generation.

  Therefore, when there is no use of hot water in the hot water storage tank (hot water supply) and there is a possibility that the heat recovery pipe heat sterilization treatment condition may be satisfied, the notification means will notify the user within a predetermined time. Urges the user to use hot water in the hot water storage tank, and heat recovery pipe thermal sterilization treatment is necessary when there is no use of hot water in the hot water storage tank (hot water supply). The heat recovery pipe heat sterilization treatment by continuing for a certain period of time can avoid the stop of power generation, and the efficient operation can be executed by avoiding the stop of power generation.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a hot water storage tank and a heat recovery heat exchanger that recovers exhaust heat during power generation of the fuel cell while one end communicates with the lower part of the hot water storage tank and the other end communicates with the upper part of the hot water storage tank. A hot water supply pipe for supplying hot water in the upper part of the hot water storage tank, a water supply pipe for supplying hot water in the hot water storage tank so as to keep a predetermined amount in communication with the lower part of the hot water tank, and A hot water storage tank circulation pump for circulating hot water in the heat recovery pipe in a direction to introduce hot water in the hot water storage tank from the lower part in the hot water storage tank and return to the upper part in the hot water storage tank, and hot water in the hot water storage tank or the hot water supply pipe Gas water heater that heats hot water flowing inside when necessary, remote control having the notification means, gas meter for detecting the amount of fuel gas used at home, and use of fuel gas by the fuel cell A gas flow rate sensor for detecting the amount of fuel gas detected by the gas meter when the state in which the amount of fuel gas detected is less than or equal to a predetermined amount continues for a predetermined time shorter than 12 hours. This is a fuel cell system that encourages consumption of fuel gas by the gas appliance.

  In the above configuration, if the amount of fuel gas used continues to be below a predetermined amount at home, and if the amount of fuel gas used continues to be below the predetermined amount at home, the amount of fuel gas used at home is a predetermined amount. When the following condition reaches 12 hours and an operation corresponding to gas leakage is performed and the output of power generation must be reduced, the notification means informs the user by the gas appliance in the home within a predetermined time. Since it encourages the consumption of gas, the user is more likely to consume fuel gas with the gas appliances in the home within a predetermined time. If the consumption of fuel gas is consumed, the state where the amount of fuel gas used is less than the predetermined amount will be interrupted, and the start of the gas leak response operation will be postponed until the next gas leak response condition is met. Reduced output can be avoided

  Therefore, if the usage amount of fuel gas continues at a predetermined amount or less at home and there is a possibility that the condition for dealing with gas leakage will be satisfied, the notification means will notify the user of the gas in the home within a predetermined time. Because it encourages the consumption of fuel gas by appliances, it allows users to consume fuel gas with domestic gas appliances, and it is possible to deal with gas leaks when the amount of fuel gas used at home is below a predetermined amount for 12 hours. Thus, it is possible to avoid the stop of power generation and the decrease in output, and the efficient operation can be executed by avoiding the stop of power generation and the decrease in output.

  Embodiments of a fuel cell system according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments.

(Embodiment 1)
FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a fuel cell system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing a procedure for prompting a user to perform a specific action in the fuel cell system according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing a screen of a remote controller that prompts the user to perform a specific action in the fuel cell system according to the embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the fuel cell system of the present embodiment includes a hot water storage tank 1, a tank lower hot water temperature detection means 13 for detecting the temperature of hot water in the lower part of the hot water storage tank 1, and one end at the lower part of the hot water storage tank 1. The other end communicates with the upper part of the hot water storage tank 1, and the heat recovery pipe 2 having the heat recovery heat exchanger 10 for recovering the exhaust heat generated during the power generation of the fuel cell 4 and the hot water in the upper part of the hot water storage tank 1 are connected. A hot water supply pipe 6 for supplying hot water, a water supply pipe 5 for communicating with the lower part of the hot water storage tank 1 so as to keep hot water in the hot water storage tank 1 at a predetermined amount, and hot water in the hot water storage tank 1 are introduced from the lower part of the hot water storage tank 1. Then, a hot water tank circulating pump 3 that circulates hot water in the heat recovery pipe 2 in a direction to return to the upper part in the hot water tank 1, a remote control 12 having a notification means (display screen), and a device use detection provided in the hot water pipe 6 Means 7 and hot water supply pipe 6 A branch pipe 8 for connecting the water pipe 5, a flow sensor 9 for detecting the flow rate of the hot water supply pipe 6, a hot water tank circulating pump 3, a tank lower hot water temperature detecting means 13, a remote controller 12, an equipment use detecting means 7, and a flow sensor. 9 which has a timer for measuring the elapsed time since the flow rate sensor 9 has recently detected that there is no substantial flow rate, and which controls the hot water tank circulation pump 3 and the notification means (display screen) of the remote controller 12. Means 11, and a notification means (display screen) of the remote controller 12 under the control of the operation control means 11 when the temperature of the tank lower hot water temperature detection means 13 exceeds a predetermined temperature lower than the system stop temperature at which the system must be stopped. Is configured to prompt the user to perform a hot water supply operation from the hot water supply pipe 6 within a predetermined time as shown in FIG.

  With respect to the fuel cell system of the present embodiment configured as described above, a procedure for prompting a user to perform a specific action will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3.

  If the hot water temperature detection means 13 at the lower part of the tank determines that the water temperature at the lower part of the tank has exceeded a certain value A (S101 branches to Yes), the operation control means 11 generates power to the user as shown in FIG. A screen prompting the user to use hot water is displayed so that the user can continue the operation, or a signal is sent to guide the user by voice (S102). The user uses hot water from the hot water supply pipe 6 to supply water from the water supply pipe 5 to the hot water storage tank 1 from the lower part of the hot water storage tank 1. 3 is detected (No at S101 and the next S103 is branched to Yes), the operation control means 11 sends a signal to stop the screen of FIG. 3 displayed on the remote controller 12 (S104). As a result, the hot water storage tank 1 can be prevented from being filled with hot water, and power generation can be continued.

  As described above, the fuel cell system according to the present embodiment includes the hot water storage tank 1, the tank lower hot water temperature detecting means 13 for detecting the temperature of the hot water in the lower portion of the hot water storage tank 1, and one end communicating with the lower portion of the hot water storage tank 1. The other end communicates with the upper part of the hot water storage tank 1 and the heat recovery pipe 2 having a heat recovery heat exchanger 10 that recovers exhaust heat during power generation of the fuel cell 4 and hot water in the upper part of the hot water storage tank 1 are supplied. The hot water supply pipe 6 is connected to the lower part of the hot water storage tank 1 and the hot water supply pipe 5 for supplying hot water in the hot water storage tank 1 so as to keep the predetermined amount of hot water, and the hot water in the hot water storage tank 1 is introduced from the lower part of the hot water storage tank 1. A hot water storage tank circulation pump 3 for circulating hot water in the heat recovery pipe 2 in a direction to return to the upper part in the hot water storage tank 1, a remote control 12 having a notification means (display screen), and a device use detection means 7 provided in the hot water supply pipe 6. And hot water supply pipe 6 and water supply A branch pipe 8 for connecting the pipe 5, a flow sensor 9 for detecting the flow rate of the hot water supply pipe 6, a hot water tank circulating pump 3, a tank lower hot water temperature detecting means 13, a remote controller 12, a device use detecting means 7, and a flow sensor 9. Are connected to the hot water storage tank circulation pump 3 and an operation control means 11 for controlling the notifying means (display screen) of the remote controller 12, and the temperature of the tank lower hot water temperature detecting means 13 is lower than the system stop temperature at which the system needs to be stopped. When the low predetermined temperature A is exceeded, the notification means (display screen) of the remote controller 12 performs the hot water supply operation from the hot water supply pipe 6 within a predetermined time as shown in FIG. It is a fuel cell system that encourages.

  In the above configuration, the use of hot water in the hot water storage tank 1 (hot water supply) is small, and the temperature of the hot water in the lower part of the hot water storage tank 1 rises, so that the heat dissipation efficiency of the fuel cell 4 deteriorates and the hot water storage tank 1 remains as it is. If there is no use of hot water (hot water supply), the temperature of the hot water in the lower part of the hot water storage tank 1 will soon rise and the system must be stopped. 11, the notifying means (display screen) of the remote controller 12 prompts the user to perform a hot water supply operation from the hot water supply pipe 6 within a predetermined time as shown in FIG. The possibility of performing hot water supply operation from the hot water supply pipe 6 is increased, and if the user performs hot water supply operation from the hot water supply pipe 6 within a predetermined time, the hot water in the hot water storage tank 1 is reduced in the lower part of the hot water storage tank 1. water supply And water supply is performed from the pipe 5, since the temperature of hot water in the lower portion of the hot water storage tank 1 is lowered, it can be avoided to stop the power generation.

  Therefore, when the temperature of the hot water in the lower part of the hot water storage tank 1 is rising and there is a possibility that it will reach the system stop temperature, the notification means (display screen) of the remote controller 12 is used under the control of the operation control means 11. 3 prompts the user to perform a hot water supply operation from the hot water supply pipe 6 within a predetermined time period as shown in FIG. 3, so that the user uses the hot water in the hot water storage tank 1 and uses the hot water in the hot water storage tank 1 ( It is possible to avoid the stoppage of power generation due to the temperature of the hot water in the lower part of the hot water storage tank 1 reaching the system stop temperature and the efficient operation by avoiding the stop of power generation.

(Embodiment 2)
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a procedure for prompting a user to perform a specific action in the fuel cell system according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing a screen of a remote controller that prompts the user to perform a specific action in the fuel cell system according to the embodiment. The schematic configuration diagram of the fuel cell system in the first embodiment is the same as the schematic configuration diagram of the fuel cell system in the first embodiment shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the fuel cell system of the present embodiment includes a hot water storage tank 1, a tank lower hot water temperature detection means 13 for detecting the temperature of hot water in the lower part of the hot water storage tank 1, and one end at the lower part of the hot water storage tank 1. The other end communicates with the upper part of the hot water storage tank 1, and the heat recovery pipe 2 having the heat recovery heat exchanger 10 for recovering the exhaust heat generated during the power generation of the fuel cell 4 and the hot water in the upper part of the hot water storage tank 1 are connected. A hot water supply pipe 6 for supplying hot water, a water supply pipe 5 for communicating with the lower part of the hot water storage tank 1 so as to keep hot water in the hot water storage tank 1 at a predetermined amount, and hot water in the hot water storage tank 1 are introduced from the lower part of the hot water storage tank 1. Then, a hot water tank circulating pump 3 that circulates hot water in the heat recovery pipe 2 in a direction to return to the upper part in the hot water tank 1, a remote control 12 having a notification means (display screen), and a device use detection provided in the hot water pipe 6 Means 7 and hot water supply pipe 6 A branch pipe 8 for connecting the water pipe 5, a flow sensor 9 for detecting the flow rate of the hot water supply pipe 6, a hot water tank circulating pump 3, a tank lower hot water temperature detecting means 13, a remote controller 12, an equipment use detecting means 7, and a flow sensor. 9 and has a timer for measuring the elapsed time since the flow rate sensor 9 has recently detected that there is substantially no flow rate (less than a certain amount D), and the notification means (display screen) of the hot water tank circulation pump 3 and the remote controller 12 The operation control means 11 controls the operation control means 11 when the elapsed time measured by the timer of the operation control means 11 exceeds a predetermined time C shorter than the time required for the heat recovery pipe heat sterilization process. Under the control, the notification means (display screen) of the remote controller 12 is configured to prompt the user to perform a hot water supply operation from the hot water supply pipe 6 within a predetermined time as shown in FIG.

  With respect to the fuel cell system of the present embodiment configured as described above, a procedure for prompting a user to perform a specific action will be described with reference to FIGS. 1, 4, and 5.

  If the operation control means 11 determines that there is no hot water supply of a constant amount C for a certain period C from the flow rate sensor 9 and a timer built in the operation control means 11 (branch S201 to Yes side), the operation control means 11 is connected to the remote controller 12. A signal is sent to display a screen as shown in FIG. 5 (S202). When it is determined that the user has used a certain amount of hot water D from the hot water supply pipe 6 (S201 branches to No side), when the message Q shown in FIG. 5 is displayed (S203 branches to Yes side), The operation control means 11 sends a signal to stop the screen of FIG. 5 displayed on the remote controller 12 (S204). Thereby, the response | compatibility operation | movement to Legionella family bacteria can be avoided, Therefore Power generation as planned can be implemented.

  As described above, the fuel cell system according to the present embodiment includes the hot water storage tank 1, the tank lower hot water temperature detecting means 13 for detecting the temperature of the hot water in the lower portion of the hot water storage tank 1, and one end communicating with the lower portion of the hot water storage tank 1. The other end communicates with the upper part of the hot water storage tank 1 and the heat recovery pipe 2 having a heat recovery heat exchanger 10 that recovers exhaust heat during power generation of the fuel cell 4 and hot water in the upper part of the hot water storage tank 1 are supplied. The hot water supply pipe 6 is connected to the lower part of the hot water storage tank 1 and the hot water supply pipe 5 for supplying hot water in the hot water storage tank 1 so as to keep the predetermined amount of hot water, and the hot water in the hot water storage tank 1 is introduced from the lower part of the hot water storage tank 1. A hot water storage tank circulation pump 3 for circulating hot water in the heat recovery pipe 2 in a direction to return to the upper part in the hot water storage tank 1, a remote control 12 having a notification means (display screen), and a device use detection means 7 provided in the hot water supply pipe 6. And hot water supply pipe 6 and water supply A branch pipe 8 for connecting the pipe 5, a flow sensor 9 for detecting the flow rate of the hot water supply pipe 6, a hot water tank circulating pump 3, a tank lower hot water temperature detecting means 13, a remote controller 12, a device use detecting means 7, and a flow sensor 9. And a notification means (display screen) of the hot water tank circulation pump 3 and the remote controller 12 having a timer for measuring the elapsed time since the flow rate sensor 9 has recently detected that there is substantially no flow rate (less than a certain amount D). The operation control means 11 for controlling the operation control means 11 when the elapsed time measured by the timer of the operation control means 11 exceeds a predetermined time C shorter than the time required for the heat recovery pipe heat sterilization treatment. Thus, the notification means (display screen) of the remote controller 12 is a fuel cell system that prompts the user to perform a hot water supply operation from the hot water supply pipe 6 within a predetermined time as shown in FIG.

  In the above configuration, if there is no use of hot water in the hot water storage tank 1 (hot water supply), and if there continues to be no use of hot water in the hot water storage tank 1 (hot water supply), the heat recovery pipe 2 will soon be used. When the system is stopped for the heat sterilization treatment, the notification means (display screen) of the remote controller 12 is controlled by the operation control means 11 from the hot water supply pipe 6 within a predetermined time as shown in FIG. If the user performs the hot water supply operation from the hot water supply pipe 6 within the predetermined time, the user is more likely to perform the hot water supply operation from the hot water supply pipe 6 within the predetermined time. Recently, the timer of the operation control means 11 that measures the elapsed time since the flow rate sensor 9 detected that there is no substantial flow rate (less than a certain amount D) in the hot water supply pipe 6 has been reset, and the heat sterilization process of the heat recovery pipe 2 Next is heat recovery Since postponed until the condition of the tube heat sterilization, it can be avoided to stop the power generation.

  Accordingly, when there is no use of hot water in the hot water storage tank 1 (hot water supply) and there is a possibility that the condition of the heat sterilization treatment of the heat recovery pipe 2 will be satisfied, the remote controller is controlled by the operation control means 11. The twelve notification means (display screen) prompts the user to perform the hot water supply operation from the hot water supply pipe 6 within a predetermined time as shown in FIG. 5, so that the user can use the hot water in the hot water storage tank 1. The heat recovery pipe heat sterilization process can avoid the stop of power generation because the state in which the hot water in the hot water storage tank 1 is not used (hot water supply) continues for the time required for the heat recovery pipe heat sterilization process. Efficient driving can be performed by avoiding the situation.

(Embodiment 3)
FIG. 6 is a schematic configuration diagram of a fuel cell system according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a procedure for prompting a user to perform a specific action in the fuel cell system according to the embodiment. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing a remote control screen that prompts the user to perform a specific action in the fuel cell system according to the embodiment. In the present embodiment, the same components as those in the first or second embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the fuel cell system of the present embodiment includes a hot water storage tank 1, a tank lower hot water temperature detection means 13 for detecting the temperature of hot water in the lower part of the hot water storage tank 1, and one end at the lower part of the hot water storage tank 1. The other end communicates with the upper part of the hot water storage tank 1, and the heat recovery pipe 2 having the heat recovery heat exchanger 10 for recovering the exhaust heat generated during the power generation of the fuel cell 4 and the hot water in the upper part of the hot water storage tank 1 are connected. A hot water supply pipe 6 for supplying hot water, a water supply pipe 5 for communicating with the lower part of the hot water storage tank 1 so as to keep hot water in the hot water storage tank 1 at a predetermined amount, and hot water in the hot water storage tank 1 are introduced from the lower part of the hot water storage tank 1. Then, a hot water tank circulating pump 3 that circulates hot water in the heat recovery pipe 2 in a direction to return to the upper part in the hot water tank 1, a remote control 12 having a notification means (display screen), and a device use detection provided in the hot water pipe 6 Means 7 and hot water supply pipe 6 A branch pipe 8 that connects the water pipe 5, a flow rate sensor 9 that detects the flow rate of the hot water supply pipe 6, a gas water heater 14 that heats hot water flowing in the branch pipe 8 when necessary, and a fuel cell 4 and a gas water heater 14. A gas pipe 15 for supplying gas; a gas meter 16 provided in the gas pipe 15 for detecting the amount of fuel gas used at home; a gas flow rate sensor 17 for detecting the amount of fuel gas used by the fuel cell 4; A state in which the amount of fuel gas used detected by the gas meter 16 connected to the tank circulation pump 3, the tank lower hot water temperature detecting means 13, the remote controller 12, the device usage detecting means 7, the flow sensor 9 and the gas meter 16 is below a predetermined amount continues. A hot water storage tank circulation pump 3 and an operation control means 11 for controlling the notification means (display screen) of the remote controller 12. When the state in which the amount of fuel gas detected by the gas meter 16 is less than or equal to a predetermined amount continues for a predetermined time shorter than 12 hours, the notification means (display screen) of the remote controller 12 is controlled by the operation control means 11 to the user in FIG. As shown, it is configured to encourage consumption of fuel gas by a household gas appliance within a predetermined time.

  With respect to the fuel cell system of the present embodiment configured as described above, a procedure for prompting a user to perform a specific action will be described with reference to FIGS.

  When the operation control means 11 determines from the gas flow sensor 17 or the hot water tank circulation pump 3 and a timer built in the operation control means 11 that the operation of the fuel cell 4 continues for a certain period E (S301 is set to Yes side). Branching), it is determined whether the gas flow rate has increased to a certain amount F or more. If the gas flow rate has not increased (S302 is branched to No), the operation control means 11 displays a screen as shown in FIG. A signal is sent to display (S303). When the user takes a predetermined action and determines that the gas flow sensor 17 has used a certain amount of gas F (branch S302 to Yes side), the operation control means 11 displays the screen of FIG. A signal is sent to stop (S304). As a result, the operation corresponding to the gas leakage can be avoided, so that the power generation can be continued with the planned power generation amount.

  As described above, the fuel cell system according to the present embodiment includes the hot water storage tank 1, the tank lower hot water temperature detecting means 13 for detecting the temperature of the hot water in the lower portion of the hot water storage tank 1, and one end communicating with the lower portion of the hot water storage tank 1. The other end communicates with the upper part of the hot water storage tank 1 and the heat recovery pipe 2 having a heat recovery heat exchanger 10 that recovers exhaust heat during power generation of the fuel cell 4 and hot water in the upper part of the hot water storage tank 1 are supplied. The hot water supply pipe 6 is connected to the lower part of the hot water storage tank 1 and the hot water supply pipe 5 for supplying hot water in the hot water storage tank 1 so as to keep the predetermined amount of hot water, and the hot water in the hot water storage tank 1 is introduced from the lower part of the hot water storage tank 1. A hot water storage tank circulation pump 3 for circulating hot water in the heat recovery pipe 2 in a direction to return to the upper part in the hot water storage tank 1, a remote control 12 having a notification means (display screen), and a device use detection means 7 provided in the hot water supply pipe 6. And hot water supply pipe 6 and water supply Gas is supplied to the branch pipe 8 connecting the pipe 5, the flow rate sensor 9 for detecting the flow rate of the hot water supply pipe 6, the gas water heater 14 for heating the hot water flowing in the branch pipe 8 when necessary, the fuel cell 4 and the gas water heater 14. , A gas meter 16 provided in the gas pipe 15 for detecting the amount of fuel gas used at home, a gas flow rate sensor 17 for detecting the amount of fuel gas used by the fuel cell 4, and a hot water storage tank A state in which the amount of fuel gas used by the gas meter 16 connected to the circulation pump 3, the tank lower hot water temperature detecting means 13, the remote controller 12, the device usage detecting means 7, the flow rate sensor 9 and the gas meter 16 is below a predetermined amount continues. A hot water storage tank circulation pump 3 and an operation control means 11 for controlling the notification means (display screen) of the remote controller 12. When the state in which the amount of fuel gas detected by the meter 16 is less than or equal to a predetermined amount continues for a predetermined time shorter than 12 hours, the notification means (display screen) of the remote controller 12 is controlled by the operation control means 11 to the user in FIG. As shown, the fuel cell system encourages consumption of fuel gas by a household gas appliance within a predetermined time.

  In the above configuration, if the amount of fuel gas used continues to be below a predetermined amount at home, and if the amount of fuel gas used continues to be below the predetermined amount at home, the amount of fuel gas used at home is a predetermined amount. When the following state reaches 12 hours and the operation corresponding to gas leakage is performed and the output of power generation must be reduced, the notification means (display screen) of the remote controller 12 is used under the control of the operation control means 11 As shown in FIG. 8, the user is encouraged to consume the fuel gas with the gas appliance in the home within a predetermined time, so that the user may consume the fuel gas with the gas appliance in the home within the predetermined time. If the user consumes fuel gas with a household gas appliance within a predetermined time, the usage of the fuel gas will be interrupted at a predetermined amount or less at home, and the operation for dealing with gas leakage will be started next. For gas leakage Since postponed until meet, you can avoid a decrease in the stop or the output power.

  Therefore, when the fuel gas usage amount continues below the predetermined amount at home and there is a risk of satisfying the gas leak countermeasure condition, the notification means (display) of the remote controller 12 is controlled by the operation control means 11. Screen) prompts the user to consume the fuel gas with the gas appliance in the home within a predetermined time as shown in FIG. 8, so that the user consumes the fuel gas with the gas appliance in the home. It is possible to avoid stoppage of power generation and decrease of output by dealing with gas leakage due to the state where the amount of fuel gas used is less than a predetermined amount for 12 hours, and efficient operation by avoiding stoppage of power generation and decrease of output Can be executed.

  The present invention stops power generation due to the continued absence of hot water in the hot water storage tank (hot water supply), or stops power generation or generates power when the amount of fuel gas used in the home continues below a predetermined amount. This is suitable for a household fuel cell system.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Hot water storage tank 2 Heat recovery piping 3 Hot water storage tank circulation pump 4 Fuel cell 5 Water supply piping 6 Hot water supply piping 7 Equipment use detection means 9 Flow rate sensor 10 Heat recovery heat exchanger 11 Operation control means 12 Remote control 13 Tank lower hot water temperature detection means 14 Gas water heater 15 Gas pipe 16 Gas meter 17 Gas flow sensor

Claims (3)

A hot water storage tank, a tank lower hot water temperature detecting means for detecting the temperature of hot water in the lower part of the hot water storage tank, one end communicating with the lower part in the hot water storage tank, and the other end communicating with the upper part in the hot water storage tank. A heat recovery pipe having a heat recovery heat exchanger for recovering exhaust heat during power generation, a hot water supply pipe for supplying hot water in the upper part of the hot water storage tank, and hot water in the hot water storage tank connected to the lower part of the hot water storage tank And a hot water storage tank that circulates the hot water in the heat recovery pipe in a direction in which the hot water in the hot water storage tank is introduced from the lower part of the hot water storage tank and returned to the upper part of the hot water storage tank. Provided with a circulation pump and a remote control having a notification means, and when the temperature of the tank lower hot water temperature detection means exceeds a predetermined temperature lower than the system stop temperature that needs to be stopped Fuel cell system prompt the knowledge unit performs hot water supply operation from the hot water supply pipe within a predetermined time to the user. A hot water storage tank, and a heat recovery pipe having a heat recovery heat exchanger for recovering exhaust heat during power generation of the fuel cell in the middle with one end communicating with the lower part in the hot water storage tank and the other end communicating with the upper part in the hot water storage tank A hot water supply pipe that supplies hot water in the upper part of the hot water storage tank, a water supply pipe that communicates with the lower part of the hot water storage tank so as to keep the hot water in the hot water storage tank at a predetermined amount, and hot water in the hot water storage tank. A hot water storage tank circulation pump for circulating hot water in the heat recovery pipe in a direction to be introduced from the lower part of the hot water storage tank and returned to the upper part of the hot water storage tank, a flow rate sensor for detecting a flow rate of the hot water supply pipe or the water supply pipe, A timer for measuring an elapsed time since the flow sensor recently detected that there is no substantial flow, and a remote controller having the notification means, and the elapsed time measured by the timer is a heat recovery pipe thermal kill. Fuel cell system prompts that the process is the notification means when it exceeds a predetermined short time than required becomes time to perform hot-water supply operation from the hot water supply pipe within a predetermined time to the user. A hot water storage tank, and a heat recovery pipe having a heat recovery heat exchanger for recovering exhaust heat during power generation of the fuel cell in the middle with one end communicating with the lower part in the hot water storage tank and the other end communicating with the upper part in the hot water storage tank A hot water supply pipe that supplies hot water in the upper part of the hot water storage tank, a water supply pipe that communicates with the lower part of the hot water storage tank so as to keep the hot water in the hot water storage tank at a predetermined amount, and hot water in the hot water storage tank. A hot water tank circulating pump for circulating hot water in the heat recovery pipe in a direction to be introduced from the lower part of the hot water tank and returned to the upper part of the hot water tank, and hot water in the hot water tank or hot water flowing in the hot water pipe is required A gas water heater that sometimes heats, a remote control having the notification means, a gas meter that detects the amount of fuel gas used at home, and a gas detector that detects the amount of fuel gas used by the fuel cell A flow rate sensor, and when the fuel gas usage detected by the gas meter continues for a predetermined time shorter than 12 hours for a predetermined time shorter than 12 hours, the notification means informs the user by a gas appliance in the home within a predetermined time. A fuel cell system that encourages consumption of fuel gas.

Images