FR3035706A1 - ENERGY GENERATION SYSTEM AND PROCESS FOR PRODUCING AN ENERGY PRODUCTION EQUIPMENT THEREFOR - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to an energy production system (1) comprising: - an energy production equipment (8) comprising an energy production unit (14) from a product (2) in the form of particles (4) and a feed device (16), - a container (10) defining an internal volume (18). The system comprises at least one removable connection unit (12) comprising a first connection element (20) linked to the power generation equipment and a second complementary connection element (22) linked to the container. The connector unit has a mated configuration in which the particles are transferable from the internal volume to the feeder, and an uncoupled configuration. When the connector unit is in the uncoupled configuration, the container is movable relative to the power generation equipment.

Description

The present invention relates to a power generation system comprising: a power generation equipment comprising a production unit; of energy from a product in the form of particles and a feed device of the production unit, - a container defining an internal volume for receiving the product in the form of particles. In the field of energy, the supply of solid materials represents a challenge of services and logistics. The solids are, for example, particles such as biomass particles or wood particles. It is known to use high volume trucks allowing the delivery of bulk particles in a fixed container connected to a power generation equipment. However, the traceability of the delivered products is difficult with this type of supply. In addition this transport is not suitable for the supply of small quantities of particles. In addition, the container and the production equipment being fixed, the power generation system is cumbersome. In addition, it is difficult to access the facilities for maintenance operations for example.

In addition, the particles during their handling and various mechanical friction produce dust. These dusts expose the premises in which the particles are stored at a risk of ignition. Particle storage therefore requires many safety devices. In addition, the formation of dust induces a loss of the useful mass of particles during the supply.

In this context, the invention aims to provide a system for producing energy simpler to supply and more reliable. To this end, the invention relates to a power generation system of the aforementioned type characterized in that it comprises: - at least one removable connection unit comprising at least a first connecting element linked to the production equipment of energy and at least one second complementary connection element connected to the container, the coupling unit having a coupled configuration in which the first coupling element cooperates with the second complementary coupling element and the internal volume communicates with the device. supply so that the particles are transferable from the internal volume to the supply device, and an uncoupled configuration in which the two coupling elements are separated and when the coupling unit 3035706 2 is in the uncoupled configuration, the container is movable by relative to the power generation equipment between a close position and a remote position. The power generation system according to the invention may comprise one or more of the following characteristics, taken separately or in any technically possible combination: the coupling unit comprises a centering device. - The power generation system comprises a locking device adapted to maintain the coupling unit in the coupled configuration. - The container defines a passage of the particles and the container comprises a valve, the valve being movable between a closed position of the passage of the particles of the particles and an open position, the passage of the coupling unit in the uncoupled configuration causing the passage of the valve in the closed position and the passage of the coupling unit in the coupled configuration causing the passage of the valve in the open position. - The power generation system comprises a control system adapted to change the particle transfer rate by the coupling unit. the energy production system comprises a pneumatic drive mechanism capable of implementing the transfer of the particles from the container to the feed device. the transfer of the particles from the container to the feed device through the coupling unit is gravity. - The energy production system comprises a worm adapted to implement the transfer of particles from the container to the feeder. The energy production system comprises a plurality of containers, the supply device being able to be connected to each container by a coupling unit. the power generation system comprises a plurality of power generation equipment, each power generation equipment including a particle product feeder, each power generation equipment comprising minus a first coupling element capable of cooperating with the second connecting element of the container, so that the particles are transferable from the internal volume to each supply device. The invention also relates to a product supply method 35 of a power generation equipment comprising the following steps: - supply of a power generation system as described above, the container comprising particles in its internal volume, - connection of the connection unit between the container and the supply device, 5 - transfer of particles from the internal volume of the container to the feed device, - disconnection of the unit from connection, - displacement of the container. The product supply method of a power generation equipment according to the invention may comprise one or more of the following characteristics, taken individually or in any technically possible combination: the production system A plurality of containers comprises a plurality of containers, and the power generation equipment comprises a plurality of first connector members. the supply method comprises a step of monitoring the level of particles in the container. - The supply method comprises an active container change step, the active container change being slaved to the level of particles 20 in the active container. the product is a fuel comprising organic materials of plant, animal or fungal origin, in particular wood. The invention will be better understood on reading the description which follows, given solely by way of example, and made with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: - Figure 1 is a schematic representation of a first power generation system according to the invention; FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of the container of the power generation system of FIG. 1; FIG. 3 is a schematic representation of the connecting unit of the power generation system of FIG. 1 in an uncoupled configuration; FIG. 4 is a schematic representation of the coupling unit of the power generation system of FIG. 1 in a coupled configuration; FIG. 5 is a schematic representation of a second energy production system according to the invention; FIG. 6 is a schematic representation of a third energy production system according to the invention; FIG. 7 is a schematic representation of a fourth energy production system according to the invention; Figure 8 is a schematic representation of a fifth power generation system according to the invention. In the following, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" refer to the flow direction of the particles. The first power generation system 1 according to the invention is intended to produce energy from a product 2, the product 2 being in the form of particles 4. As shown in FIG. 1, the first power generation system 1 comprises a power generation equipment 8, a product supply container 10 and a removable connection unit 12.

The power generation equipment 8 is for using the product 2 to generate energy. The power generation equipment 8 comprises a power generation unit 14 from the product 2 in the form of particles 4 and a power supply device 16 from the energy production unit 14. Power supply device 16 supplies power generation unit 14 directly. There is no intermediate buffer storage of the particles 4. The container 10, shown in detail in FIG. 2, is suitable for storing the product 2 in the form of particles 6 in an internal volume 18. In addition, the container 10 is capable of being connected to the supply device 16 by the connection unit 12. The removable connection unit 12 comprises at least a first connecting element 25 which is connected to the power generation equipment 8 and at least a second complementary connecting element 22 which is connected to the container 10. The coupling unit 12 has a coupled configuration shown in FIG. 1, in which the first coupling element 20 cooperates with the second connecting element 22 complementary to so that the internal volume 18 communicates with the feeder 16, so that the particles 4 are transferable from the internal volume 18 to the feeder 16. The coupling unit 12 has A disengaged configuration, shown in FIG. 3, in which the first coupling element 20 is separated from the second coupling element 22. The first power generation system 1 further comprises a locking device 24 of FIG. connection unit 12 in coupled configuration.

The energy generating system 1 further comprises a control system 28 capable of modifying the transfer rate of the particles 4 by the coupling unit 12. For example, the product 2 is a fuel.

Product 2 comprises organic materials of vegetable, animal or fungal origin, especially wood. Product 2 is for example a product 2 of biomass. Alternatively, the product 2 further comprises additives to preserve the particles from moisture. The shape, weight and mass of the particles 4 are adapted to their uses in the power generation equipment 8. In particular, the particles 4 are able to flow substantially like a fluid, in the manner of a granular material. For example, the particles 4 have a cylindrical, spherical or any other geometry capable of allowing a gravity flow. For example, the particles 4 are in the form of granules or the form of platelets.

The longest dimension of the particles 4 is, for example, between 2 mm and 70 mm. The particles 4 are adapted to be transferred through the connection unit 12, the container 10 to the feeder 16, as described below without risk of blocking by viscosity.

In addition, the particles 4 are stable and have a homogeneous and known composition. For example, the particles 4 are formed by extrusion, grinding, compaction and / or dehydration of the product 2. For example in the field of energy, the particles 4 are obtained from milled wood, straw flour, powder coal and / or wood powders. In the field of energy, the particles 4 can also be composed of mixtures of the elements mentioned above. The power generation unit 14 is able to convert a product supply 2 into energy. For example, if the product 2 is a fuel, the energy production unit 14 is able to consume the particles 4 and to produce, for example, thermal energy from the combustion of the particles 4. For example, the power generation unit 14 is a gas and oil boiler converted into a biomass boiler. The feed device 16 is the input device of the particles 4 in the power generation equipment 8.

The feeder 16 has at least one inlet opening 30. Each inlet opening 30 has a first coupling element 20 which is adapted to cooperate with a second complementary coupling element 22 of the container 10 as will be described. , thereafter. The feed device 16 is capable of transferring the particles from the inlet opening 30 to the power generating unit 14. For example, the feed device 16 comprises a worm. In addition, the feed device 16 comprises a shutter member 32 of the inlet opening 30, adjustable between a fully open position, intermediate closure positions and a total closed position. For example, the closure member 32 is a clean platen slidable between the fully open position and the fully closed position. In the fully open position, shown in Figure 1, the shutter member 32 allows access of the product 2 from the inlet opening 30 to the power generation unit 14. In the position completely closing, the closure member 32 completely closes the inlet opening 30.

The power generation equipment 8 advantageously comprises a communication module 34. The communication module is able to receive and transmit data to the container 10, to the control system 28 or to a management center 35. For example , the communication module 34 is able to transmit information concerning the energy requirements of the power generation unit 14.

The container 10 is adapted to be filled with particles 4 by a filling unit. The container 10 constitutes a unit volume of delivery in particles 4. A container 10 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 2. The container 10 comprises a container 36, a support 38 and a connection piece comprising the second connecting element 22 adapted to be connected to the power device 16, as will be described later. The container 10 defines the internal volume 18 for receiving the product 2 in the form of particles 4. In addition, the container 10 advantageously comprises a humidity sensor 42 of the internal volume 18, a measuring tool of the level 44 of the particles 4 in the internal volume 30 18, a traceability device 46 and a transmission module 48. In addition, the container 10 is mobile. The container 10 advantageously comprises wheels 50, so as to allow its displacement. For example, the wheels 50 are ratchet wheels. Advantageously, the container 10 comprises four wheels 50. In addition, the container 10 advantageously comprises a motor and brakes. For example, the braking system is directly integrated with the wheels 50. The wheels 50 are for example 3035706 7 capable of being turned independently of each other. The wheels 50 are able to support the weight of the container 36 when the internal volume 18 is filled with particles 4. Alternatively or in addition, the container 10 is transportable by a hand pallet truck. The container 10 comprises, for example, catches 52 for forklift forks 5. In addition, the container 10 advantageously comprises handles 54 integrated handling. In the example shown, the handles 54 are arranged on the container 36 and the wheels 50, the motor, the brakes and the forks 52 are arranged on the support 38. In a variant, the wheels 50 comprise a control system. integrated braking controlled by the handle 54 when it is operated. In a variant, the wheels 50 are motorized and comprise an integrated braking system and controlled by a manual brake handle. In a variant, the wheels 50 are motorized and controlled by the handle 54 or by a remote control with or without a wire. The container 10 is elongate in a longitudinal direction X, substantially vertical. The terms "lower" and "upper" refer to this longitudinal direction X. The height of the container 10 in the longitudinal direction X is adapted to prevent the formation of dust during the passage of the connecting unit 12 of the configuration uncoupled to the coupled configuration, that is to say during the connection of the container 10 to the feed device 16. Advantageously, the outer shape of the container 10 does not have protruding parts to improve safety during of his manipulation. The set of connectors, such as the connecting piece 40 are advantageously integrated into cavities of the container 10. For example, the cross section is maximum in a plane located halfway up the container 10. For example, the cross section container 10 is rectangular or hexagonal. The width of the container 10 is, for example, between 60 cm and 1.20 m. The length of the container 10 is, for example, between 60 cm and 1.4 m. The height of the container 10 is advantageously between 60 cm and 2 m. In one example, the container is adapted to be transported on a pallet of rectangular cross section of 1 m by 1.2 m. The transverse dimensions of the container are then advantageously between 40 cm by 40 cm and 1 m by 1.2 m.

Advantageously, the container 10 is able to receive from 0.2 m3 to 1.5 m3 of particles 4 in its internal volume 18.

The inner walls of the container 36 defining the internal volume 18 are chemically neutral, and do not interact chemically with the product 2. In addition, the walls of the container 36 have a mechanical strength relative to the particles 4 transported. For example, the receptacle 36 comprises an external reinforcement reinforcement 5 allowing the shape and the mechanical strength of the receptacle 36 to be maintained when the particles 4 present in the internal volume 18 are in motion, for example, during the particle loading 4, when the transport of the container 10 or during the transfer of the particles 4 to the feeder 16. The container 36 is sealed to allow temporary storage of the particles 10 4 in the container 10. Alternatively or in addition, the container 36 of the container 10 is breathable so as to avoid fermentation of the particles 4. For example, the container 36 has a ventilation valve 56. The ventilation valve 56 is adapted to let the gases from the internal volume 18 escape but to prevent entry In addition to the ventilation valve 56, a safety valve is provided to preserve the integrity of the gas. ysique container 10 in case of obstruction of the ventilation valve 56 by any foreign body, such as snow, frost, insects, bird's nests or other. The container 36 advantageously has opaque walls 58 to protect the product 2 from ultraviolet rays. The container 36 further comprises a translucent viewing window 60 of the particle level 4 of the internal volume 18. For example, the container 36 is made of high density polyethylene (PE) plastic or metal material.

The container 36 has an upper portion 62 and a lower portion 64. In addition, the container 36 typically has an upper cover 66 and a lower platen 68. The upper portion 62 defines a fill opening 70 on its upper face facing the The top of the container 36. The dimensions of the filling opening 70 are adapted to allow the loading of the container 10 by the filling unit.

The filling opening 70 is adapted to be closed by the upper cover 66. The upper cover 66 is operable between an open position in which it allows access to the internal volume 18 through the filling opening 70 and the loading the particles 4 into the internal volume 18 and a closing position in which it closes the filling aperture 70. The upper cover 66 is shown in its closed position.

In the closed position, the top cover 66 is removably attached to the upper part 62 so as to prevent the top cover 66 from unexpectedly passing into an open position, for example, during the transport of the container 10. or movements of the container 10. For example, in the closed position, the top cover 66 is screwed to the top 62. The top cover 66 is sealed and / or breathable. Advantageously, the upper lid 66 is adapted to let water vapor from the internal volume 18 but prevent the external moisture from accessing the internal volume 18. The material of the upper lid 66 is for example GorelexTM or any other material 10 similar breathable. The lower part 64 has the shape of a hopper. The angle a of the hopper is adapted to facilitate the flow of the particles 4 in the internal volume 18 to a discharge opening 72. The angle a of the hopper is measured between the longitudinal direction X and the wall of the hopper. The angle a of the hopper is advantageously between 30 ° 15 and 50. The angle a of the hopper is adapted to the composition and the nature of the particles 4 for a good flow of the product 2. The emptying opening 72 is at the bottom of the hopper. As shown in Figure 2, the emptying opening 72 is in the center of the hopper. Alternatively, it is positioned differently, for example, offset on one of the edges of the hopper. As shown in Figure 1, the emptying opening 72 is positioned to be higher than the inlet opening 30 of the feeder 16 when the container 10 is placed near the production equipment. 8. The height of the emptying aperture 72 depends on the geometry of the container 10, the position of the central or remote emptied opening 72, the angle a of the hopper and the diameter of the container. the emptying opening 72. The lower plate 68 is mounted on the lower part 64, movable between a closed position and a passage position. The bottom plate 68 is shown in its closed position in FIG.

For example, the lower platen 68 is slidable horizontally between the closed position and the passage position. In the closed position, the bottom plate 68 closes the emptying opening 72 and prevents the particles 4 of the internal volume 18 from falling through the emptying opening 72.

In the passage position, the bottom plate 68 releases access from the emptying opening 72.

The dimensions of the emptying opening 72 are adapted so that in the passage position the particles 4 of the internal volume 18 flow and fall by gravity through the emptying opening 72. For example, the diameter of the opening emptying opening 72 is greater than 20 mm.

In addition, the container 36 comprises, for example, a holding cap 74 adapted to hold the bottom plate 68 in the closed position. The holding cap 74 prevents inadvertent passage of the bottom plate 68 in the passage position. The holding cap 74 is removable. The support 38 is adapted to ensure the strength and rigidity of the container 10. The support 38 is a metal frame and hot-dip galvanized, or stainless steel. The connection piece 40 is for example a hollow tube having an upstream end 76 connected to the emptying opening 72 and a downstream end 78. The connecting endpiece 40 defines a particle 4 circulation duct opening through the end upstream 76 in the emptying opening 72 and the downstream end 78. For example, the connecting piece 40 is integral with the lower part 64. As a variant, the upstream end 76 of the end piece connector 40 is adapted to be connected to the emptying opening 72, for example by screwing. The downstream end 78 of the connection piece 40 comprises the second connecting element 22 adapted to cooperate with the first connecting element 20 of the feed device 16, as will be described later. The traceability device 46 indicates information representative of the container 10 or its contents. It may take the form of a bar code, an electronic chip, for example an RFID chip, or any other communicating tracing system. For example, the representative information comprises the following information: the reference of the container 10, the date of revision of the container 10, the origin of the product 2, the date of loading of the product 2 in the container 10, the date of connection to the energy production equipment 8, the reference of the energy production equipment 8, the humidity level in the internal volume 18 and / or the volume of particles 4 remaining in the internal volume 18, the date expiry date, such as an expiry date (UB) or a use-by date (DLC). For example, if the traceability device 46 is not electronic, the traceability device 46 comprises a label and part of the information such as the volume of particles 4 and the humidity level are, for example, manually recorded on the screen. label by an operator at regular intervals.

The transmission module 48 is able to communicate with the communication module 34 or the control system 28. For example, the transmission module 48 is able to transmit to the control system 28, a stop control of the transfer of the particles 4 when the container 10 is empty. Thus, for example, the worm is stopped. For example, the transmission module 48 is a radio-identification module, RFID (English radio frequency identification). The transmission module 48 comprises an antenna associated with an electronic chip. The transmission module 48 is able to store and transmit data remotely. In particular, the transmission module 48 is able to store and transmit the information of the traceability device 46 and / or the information measured by the humidity sensor or the level measurement tool. When the coupling unit 12 is in the coupled configuration, the supply device 16 is connected to the connection piece 40, the inlet opening 30 is in fluid communication with the particle circulation duct 4. The dimensions and the position of the inlet opening 30 and the connecting piece 40 are adapted to allow the flow of the particles 4 from the emptying opening 72 to the feeder 16 when the connector 12 is in the coupled configuration.

When the coupling unit 12 is in the uncoupled configuration, the container 10 is movable relative to the power generating equipment 8 between a close position and a remote position. When the coupling unit 12 is in the coupled configuration, the container 10 advantageously remains in the close position.

The connection unit 12 is shown in the uncoupled configuration in FIG. 3 and in the coupled configuration in FIG. 4. Each connecting element 20, 22 defines a passage lumen 82 of the particles 4 and a contact zone 84 with the other coupling member 20, 22. When the coupling unit 20, 22 is coupled the lumen 82 of the first coupling member 20 opens into the second passage member 22 and the contact areas 84 are in contact. The coupling unit 12 allows a tight connection in the coupled configuration. For example, the shapes of the contact areas 84 of the first connector member 35 connected to the feeder 16 and the second connector member 22 connected to the container 10 are complementary. For example, the contact zones 84 are two plates, or a male element and a female element, as illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4. In addition, the coupling unit 12 comprises a centering device 86. The centering device 86 makes it possible to position the lights 82 of the two connecting elements 20, 22 so that they are in continuity with one another or centered. The centering device 86 is for example formed of complementary cones on each of the contact zones 84, as illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4. In addition, the second connecting element 22 connected to the container 10 comprises a valve 88. The valve 88 is movable between a closed position in which it closes the lumen 82 of the second connecting element 22 and an open position in which it allows access to the light of the second connecting element 22 by the particles 4. The flap 88 is advantageously constrained towards its closed position, for example by means of a spring when the coupling unit 12 in the uncoupled configuration. The passage of the coupling unit 12 in the uncoupled configuration 15 thus causes the valve 88 to pass into the closed position. In addition, the first element 20 comprises a rod 90 or any other mechanical member adapted to put the valve 88 in the open position and maintain it in the open position. The passage of the coupling unit 12 in the coupled configuration causes the valve 88 to pass into the open position.

In the first power generation system 1, shown in FIG. 1, the transfer of the particles 4 from the container 10 to the feeder 16 through the connection unit 12 is gravity. Indeed, the inlet opening 30 of the feeder 16 being located at a lower level than the emptying opening 72 of the container 10, the feeding of the feeder 16 by the container 10 is gravitational 25 when the coupling unit 12 is in the coupled configuration. The locking device 24 is operable between a locking configuration and a release configuration. The locking device 24 is adapted to maintain the coupling unit 12 in the coupled configuration when in the lock configuration.

The locking device 24 comprises, for example, retaining jaws adapted to grip the first coupling element 20 and the second coupling element 22 to prevent their spacing, when the coupling unit 12 is in the coupled configuration. Advantageously, the locking device 24 comprises a return mechanism adapted to put the locking device in the locking configuration as soon as the connection unit 12 is in the coupled configuration.

The control system 28 is able to modify the transfer rate of the particles 4 through the connection unit 12. The control system 28 makes it possible to control the number and the input speed of the particles 4 entering the energy production unit 14.

For example, the control system 28 controls the position of the shutter member 32 according to the needs of the power generation unit 14. Alternatively or additionally, the control system 28 controls the position of the power supply unit. shutter member 32 as a function of the level of particles 4 in the container 10. The control system 28 is advantageously automatic. Automatic means that, thanks to the control system 28, the quantity of particles 4 necessary for the operation of the energy production unit 14 is drawn from the connected container 10 without manual intervention. A product supply method 2 of the power generation equipment 8 will now be described.

The method comprises providing a power generation system 1 as previously described with at least one container 10 comprising particles 4 in its internal volume 18. Advantageously more than two containers 10 as previously described are provided. Advantageously, all the containers 10 are similar but identifiable by a traceability device 46. Advantageously, more than 90% of the internal volume 18 of each container 10 is filled with particles 4. For the example, the connection unit 12 is supplied. in the uncoupled configuration and the container in a remote position for example on a storage area. The container 10 is moved from the remote position to the close position, that is to say around the power generation equipment 8 for example by means of the wheels 50 of the container 10 or by a pallet truck. During a connection step, the connection unit 12 is then put in the coupled configuration. The step of connecting the connection unit is facilitated by the centering device 86. The locking device 24 is set in the locking configuration. The valve 88 goes into the open position. The container 10 is thus connected to the power supply device 16 of the power generation equipment 35. The internal volume 18 is placed in communication with the feed device 16 so that the particles 4 are transferable from the internal volume 18 to the feed device 16. The container 10 is then called active container. Advantageously, the holding cap 74 is removed and the bottom plate 68 of the container 10 is placed in its passage position. The particles 4 then flow into the connecting piece 40. Alternatively, the holding cap 74 is removed before the coupling unit passes into the coupling configuration. Then, the bottom plate 68 of the container 10 is put in its passage position. The particles 4 then flow into the connection piece 40 but are stopped by the valve in the closed position. According to the needs of the energy production unit 14, the control system 28 adapts the transfer rate of the particles 4. For example, the closure member 32 of the inlet opening 30 is relieved by the feeding device 16 to allow feeding of the power generating unit 14. Due to the fluidity of the particles 4, 15 they flow rapidly to the feeder 16. The feed device 16 then supplies the power generation unit 14. The power generation unit 14 consumes the particles 4 stored in the container 10 connected.

The level of the particles in the active container 10 decreases as the energy generating unit 14 consumes. The level is controllable by an operator by means of the translucent window 60. In addition, the level of the particles in the active container 10 of particles 4 in the internal volume 18 is measured by the measuring tool 44. In addition, the method comprises measuring the humidity in the internal volume 18 of the container 10 by the moisture sensor 42. a transmission step, for example, the measured information is transmitted by the transmission module 48 to the control system 28. The communication module 34 transmits information concerning the consumption of the power generation equipment 8 to the control system 28 or at the management center 35. When the particle level 4 is below a predetermined threshold, the control system 28 gives instructions for slowing down or interrupting the pending particle transfers that a new filled container 10 is ready to be connected in place of the active container 10. Likewise, when the moisture level is outside a tolerance range, the control system 28 instructs to slow down or interrupt the pending particle transfers when a new filled container is ready for use. be connected instead of the connected container 10. In addition, the transmission module 48 transmits the delivery request for a new filled container 10 to the management center 35.

For example, before the coupling unit 12 is put into the uncoupled configuration, the control system 28 forces the closure member 32 to move into the fully closed position. The coupling unit 12 is then put in the uncoupled configuration. The passage of the coupling unit 12 in the uncoupled configuration allows the return of the valve 88 to the closed position. Each of the lumens 82 of the coupling unit 12 is advantageously obstructed during uncoupling, so that the dust can not disperse. Advantageously, in the case where several filled containers 10 are supplied, the passage of the connection unit 12 comprising the first element 20 and the second element 22 of the first container 10 connected in the uncoupled configuration is directly followed by the passage of the connection unit 12 comprising the first element 20 and the second element 22 of the second container 10. Thus a new filled container 10 is connected to the supply device 16. The disconnected container 10 is then moved to a position 20 energy production equipment 8 for example by means of the wheels 50 of the container 10 or by a pallet truck. For example the container 10 is moved to a recycling zone to be cleaned and again filled with particles 4. For example the container 10 is then recycled. For example, the recycling 25 comprises a cleaning of the container 10, a control of the container 10 and a refurbishment of the container 10. For example, during the cleaning step, the quality of the product 2 and associated ashes is analyzed. allows a quality monitoring of the container 10 and the product 2. The particular failures of a container 10 are detected thanks to the information measured by the humidity sensor 42 and the measurement tool 44 and thanks to the information transmitted by the module communication 34 of the feeder 16 at the management center 35. At the end of recycling, the bottom plate 68 is placed in the closed position and a new retaining cap 72 is placed on the emptying opening 72 of the container. In addition, the top cover 66 is placed in the closed position.

The product supply method 2 according to the invention is reliable and optimized.

Indeed, the passage of the coupling unit 12 of the coupled configuration to the uncoupled configuration is simple. In addition, each container 10 is both a storage unit and supply. An advantage of this solution is that the manipulations of the particles 4 are limited. The product 2 is thus preserved in quality and quantity. The isolation of the product 2 in the container 10 avoids contact between the operator and the product 2 and reduces the risks associated with the emission of dust. In addition, each container 10 is unique and traceable with its labeling and its transmission module 48, which comprises for example an RFID type chip. Tracking the quality of the container 10 and the product 2 enhances security. The container 10 is reused after verification and repair and cleaning before a new loading. Each container 10 thus performs several life cycles. The container 10 is reusable and durable. A second power generation system 100 is shown in FIG.

The second energy production system 100 differs from the first energy production system 1 previously described in that it comprises a particle transfer device 102 capable of activating the transfer of the particles 4 from the container 10 to the device 16. The transfer device 102 comprises a worm 104 adapted to implement the transfer of the particles 4 of the container 10 to the feeder 16. The worm 104 is disposed between the first element of 20 and the feed device 16. Advantageously, the control system 28 is adapted to control the transfer device 102 to impose the flow rate of the particles entering the energy production unit 14. For example, the system 28 is adapted to control the rotational speed of the worm 104. A third power generation system 110 is shown in Figure 6. The third The energy production system 110 differs from the second energy production system 100 previously described in that the particle transfer device 102 comprises a pneumatic drive mechanism 112 capable of carrying out the transfer of the particles 4 from the container. 10 to the feeder 16. The pneumatic drive mechanism 112 includes, for example, a suction mechanism 114 for sucking the particles from the container 10 to the feeder 16. For example, the suction mechanism Pneumatic 112 creates a depression downstream of the connection unit 112 through a suction port 116 in the feeder 16, when the coupling unit 12 is in the coupled configuration. Alternatively or additionally the pneumatic drive mechanism 112 comprises a blower mechanism 118. For example, the blower mechanism 118 is capable of injecting air or nitrogen into the internal volume 18 at a pressure advantageously greater than 1 bar by a pressurizing inlet 120. In addition, the pneumatic drive mechanism 112 advantageously comprises a locking mechanism 112 of the ventilation valve 56 to temporarily allow an overpressure in the internal volume 18.

A fourth power generation system 130 is shown in Fig. 7. The fourth power generation system 130 differs from the power generation systems 1, 100, 110 previously described in that the production system of energy 130 comprises a plurality of containers 10, the power generation equipment 8 being able to be connected to each container 10 by a connection unit 132, 134.

In the example shown, the feeder 16 has two inlet openings 136, 138, each inlet opening 136, 138 comprising a first coupling member 20 adapted to be connected to a different container 140, 142. Thus, the same power generation unit 14 is for example able to be supplied with product by several containers 140, 142 in parallel or successively.

The control system 28 is able to control independently, the transfer rate of the particles 4 corresponding to each container 10. The method differs from the method previously described in that the disconnection of a container 10 connected and the connection of a container 10 are completed in masked time, that is to say without interruption of the supply of the energy production unit 14. The method comprises a connection step for each container 140, 142. Each container 140 142 is thus connected to the power supply device 16 of the power generation equipment 8. Each internal volume 18 is placed in communication with the feeder 16 so that the particles 4 are transferable from the internal volume 18 16. Advantageously, the control system 28 retains at least one active container 142, that is to say that it keeps one of the closure members 32 in the releasable position. Vee. For example, the other container 140 is inactive as shown in Figure 6, that is to say that its shutter member 32 in the closed position.

The level of the active container 142 is followed by the measuring tool 44. The change of active container is slaved to the level of particles 4 in the active container.

When the level of particles 4 in the active container 142 is below a predetermined threshold, the control system 28 gives instructions to slow down or interrupt the transfers of particles 4 from this container 142 and instructions to accelerate or establish a flow from the other container 140.

Thus, the supply of particles 4 of the power generation unit 14 is not interrupted and does not undergo a jerk. Likewise, when the humidity level in the active container 142 is outside a tolerance range, the control system 28 gives instructions for slowing down or interrupting the transfers of particles 4 from this container 142 and 10 instructions for accelerating or establishing a flow from the other container 140. A fifth power generation system 150 is shown in FIG. 8. The fifth power generation system 150 differs from the third power generation system 110 in that the blower mechanism 118 of the pneumatic drive mechanism 112 is capable of injecting air or nitrogen into the connection nozzle 40 at a pressure advantageously greater than 1 bar by a pressurizing inlet 152. The connecting piece 40 comprises, for example, a trap 154 between the upstream end 76 and the downstream end 78 in the vicinity of the upstream end 76. The pressurization inlet 152 opens e in a side edge of the siphon 154. For example, the pressurizing inlet 152 is in the vicinity of the upstream end 76, away from the bottom of the siphon 154. In a variant, the energy production system 1, 100, 110, 130, 150 comprises in a plurality of power generation equipment 8. Each power generation equipment 8 comprises a feed device 16 of particulate product 2. Feed 16 includes a first coupling member 20 as previously described. For example, each container 10 is able to feed any power generation equipment 8 of the plurality of power generation equipment 8. In a variant, the power generation unit 14 is a boiler 30 individual or collective equipment for industrial steam production, and electricity or other.

Claims (15)

CLAIMS1.- A power generation system (1, 100, 110, 130, 150) comprising: - power generation equipment (8) comprising a power generation unit (14) from a product (2) in the form of particles (4) and a feed device (16) of the production unit (14), - a container (10) defining an internal volume (18) for receiving the product (2) under particle form (4), characterized in that it comprises - at least one detachable connection unit (12) comprising at least a first connecting element (20) connected to the power generation equipment (8) and at least one second complementary connecting element (22) connected to the container (10), the coupling unit (12) having a coupled configuration in which the first coupling element (20) cooperates with the second connecting element (22) and the internal volume (18) communicates with the supply device (16) so that the particles (4) ) are transferable from the internal volume (18) to the supply device (16), and an uncoupled configuration in which the two coupling elements (20, 22) are separated and when the coupling unit (12) is in the configuration uncoupled, the container (10) is movable relative to the power generating equipment (8) between a close position and a remote position. The power generating system (1, 100, 110, 130, 150) of claim 1 wherein the connector unit (12) comprises a centering device (86). 3.- power generation system (1, 100, 110, 130, 150) according to one of claims 1 or 2 comprising a locking device (24) adapted to maintain the connection unit (12) in the coupled configuration. 4. A system for producing energy (1, 100, 110, 130, 150) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the container defines a passage of the particles and the container comprises a valve, the valve being movable between a closed position of the passage of the particles of the particles and an open position, the passage of the coupling unit (12) in the uncoupled configuration causing the passage of the valve in the closed position and the passage of the coupling unit (12) in the coupled configuration causing the valve to pass into the open position. 5. A power generation system (1,100,110,130,150) according to any one of the preceding claims comprising a control system (28) capable of modifying the particle transfer rate (4). by the coupling unit (12). 6. A system for producing energy (1, 100, 110, 130, 150) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a pneumatic drive mechanism (112) capable of implementing the transfer of the particles ( 4) from the container (10) to the feeder (16). 7. A power generation system (1, 100, 110, 130, 150) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the transfer of the particles (4) from the container (10) to the feeder (16) through the connecting unit (12) is gravity. 8. A system for producing energy (1, 100, 110, 130, 150) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a worm adapted to implement the transfer of the particles (4) of the container ( 10) to the feeding device (16). 9. A power generation system (1, 100, 110, 130, 150) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a plurality of containers (10), the feed device (16) being adapted to to be connected to each container (10) by a coupling unit (12). The power generating system (1, 100, 110, 130, 150) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a plurality of power generation equipment (8), each power generation equipment energy supply (8) comprising a feed device (16) of product (2) in the form of a particle (4), each power generation equipment (8) comprising at least a first coupling element (20) capable of cooperating with the second connecting element (22) of the container (10), so that the particles (4) are transferable from the internal volume (18) 35 to each feeding device (16). 3035706 21 11. A method of supplying the product (2) of a power generation equipment (8) comprising the following steps: - supply of a power generation system (1, 100, 110, 130, 150 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, the container (10) comprising particles (4) in its internal volume (18), - connection of the connection unit (12) between the container (10) and the feed device (16), - transfer of particles (4) from the internal volume (18) of the container (10) to the feed device (16), 10 - disconnection of the connection unit (12), - moving the container (10). The method of supply of claim 11, wherein the power generation system (1, 100, 110, 130, 150) comprises a plurality of containers (10), and the production equipment of energy (8) comprises a plurality of first connector members (20). 13. A method of supply according to any one of claims 11 to 12, comprising a step of monitoring the level of particles (4) in the container (10). 20 14. A method of supply according to claims 12 and 13, comprising an active container changing step (10), the active container change (10) being slaved to the level of particles (4) in the active container (10). . 15. A method of supply according to any one of claims 11 to 14 wherein the product (2) is a fuel comprising organic materials of plant, animal or fungal origin, including wood.