JP2002289211A - Fuel filling part, power generation module and power supply system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a power supply system capable of restraining environmental destruction and damaged appearance by waste disposed after use, in a power supply system usable as a replacement for a portable power supply or a chemical battery. SOLUTION: This power supply system 1 is provided with: a fuel pack 20A filled with a power generating fuel FL; a power generation module 10A for generating power for driving a predetermined load based on the fuel FL supplied from the fuel pack 20A; and an I/F part 30A for physically connecting the generation module 10A with the fuel pack 20A. The fuel pack 20A has a structure attachable to and detachable from the generation module 10A. The whole structure of the system 1 has a structure arbitrarily connectable to and separable from a device DVC (load LD) driven by power supplied from the generation module 10A.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a fuel filling section, a power generation module, and a power supply system. The present invention relates to a fuel filling section, a power generation module, and a power supply system.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, various types of chemical batteries have been used in all fields of consumer and industrial use. For example, primary batteries such as alkaline batteries and manganese batteries are widely used in watches, cameras, toys, portable audio equipment, and the like.
Not only in Japan, but also from a global perspective, it has the largest production volume, is inexpensive and easily available.

[0003] On the other hand, secondary batteries such as nickel-cadmium storage batteries, nickel-metal hydride storage batteries, and lithium-ion batteries have been widely used in recent years.
A), which is widely used in portable devices such as digital video cameras and digital still cameras, and has features of being economical because it can be repeatedly charged and discharged. Among secondary batteries, a lead storage battery is used as a power supply for starting a vehicle or a ship, or as an emergency power supply in industrial equipment or medical equipment.

[0004] In recent years, with the growing interest in environmental issues and energy issues, problems relating to disposal of chemical batteries after use and problems of effective use of energy resources as described above have been highlighted. In particular, in the primary battery, as described above, the product price is inexpensive and easily available, and there are many devices used as a power source, and the battery capacity cannot be recovered basically once discharged. Since it can be used only once (so-called disposable), annual waste amounts to several million tons. Here, there is statistical data indicating that the ratio of the entire chemical battery recovered by recycling is only about 20%, and the remaining 80% is dumped or landfilled in the natural world. There is a concern that such uncollected batteries may cause environmental destruction due to heavy metals such as mercury and indium, and deteriorate the beauty of the natural environment.

When the above-mentioned chemical battery is examined from the viewpoint of energy resource utilization efficiency, the primary battery is produced using approximately 300 times the energy of the dischargeable energy, so that the energy utilization efficiency is 1%. Even less. On the other hand, even if a secondary battery that can be repeatedly charged and discharged and has excellent economic efficiency is charged from a household power supply (outlet) or the like, energy is not used due to power generation efficiency and power transmission loss at the power plant. Since the efficiency is reduced to about 12%, it cannot be said that the effective use of energy resources is necessarily achieved.

Therefore, in recent years, various new power supply systems including a fuel cell which have a small influence on the environment (burden) and can realize an extremely high energy use efficiency of, for example, about 30 to 40%. And power generation systems (hereinafter collectively referred to as "power supply systems"), which are used for application to driving power supplies for vehicles, power supply systems for business use, cogeneration systems for home use, or as described above. To replace chemical batteries,
Research and development for practical use are actively conducted. The specific configuration and the like of various power supply systems including the fuel cell will be described in detail in the detailed description of the invention.

[0007]

[Problems to be solved by the invention] However,
A power supply system with high energy utilization efficiency such as a fuel cell is reduced in size and weight, and is applied as a portable or portable power supply or as an alternative (compatible product) to the above-described chemical battery. Even so, the problem of the power system or its components (for example, fuel tanks etc.) being exhausted as waste after the power generation fuel has been used up or at the end of its useful life is inevitable. There is a possibility that problems such as environmental destruction and deterioration of the aesthetic appearance of the natural environment, which are similar to those of batteries, may occur.

For example, in an existing chemical battery, a predetermined voltage and current can be supplied to drive a load, simply by simply connecting the positive and negative terminals to the load. However, in power supply systems with high energy use efficiency, such as fuel cells, which have attracted attention in recent years,
Since it has a function as a power generator that directly or indirectly converts chemical energy of fuel into electric power, when the above-mentioned power supply system is applied as a compatible product of a chemical battery, the power generation state ( The power generation state) needs to be adjusted and controlled autonomously.

In view of the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides a power supply system that can be used as a substitute for a portable power supply or a chemical battery, and a fuel filling unit and a power generation module that can be used as a part of a power supply system. An object of the present invention is to be able to suppress environmental destruction and deterioration of aesthetic appearance due to discharged waste.

[0010]

According to the present invention, there is provided a power supply system comprising: a fuel filling section in which a fuel for power generation is filled; , And the power generation module and the fuel filling portion are configured to be detachable from each other. That is, the power supply system having the fuel filling section and the power generation module is configured to be detachable from an external device driven by the power supplied from the power generation module.

The fuel filling section according to the present invention supplies the generated power to an external device and supplies the fuel for power generation to a power generating module that is attachable to the external device. And is detachable from the power generation module. The power generation module according to the present invention is a power generation module that supplies power generated by the power generation fuel supplied from the fuel filling unit to an external device, and is detachably attached to each of the external device and the fuel filling unit. It is characterized by having.

Further, the power supply system according to the present invention is configured such that a physical outer shape comprising the fuel filling section and the power supply module has a shape and a size equivalent to one of various general-purpose chemical cells. It may be configured to have the same shape and dimensions as one of the various general-purpose chemical batteries according to the Japanese Industrial Standards. According to this, since the external shape has compatibility with a general-purpose chemical battery, a power supply system with reduced impact on the environment and high energy conversion efficiency is provided.
It can be widely used in existing chemical battery markets.

[0013] According to this, when the power generation fuel filled in the fuel filling portion runs out or becomes low, the fuel filling portion is removed from the power generation module or the load and replaced with a new fuel filling portion. Alternatively, the fuel for power generation can be injected into the fuel filling section to replenish it, so that the power generation module can be used continuously and the entire power supply system or the fuel filling section can be made as simple as a general-purpose chemical battery. Can be used for Further, since the replacement and collection of the fuel filling portion can be performed, the amount of disposal of the power supply system itself can be reduced.

Here, the fuel filling portion is made of a decomposable material that can be converted into one or a plurality of substances constituting the soil in the natural world. In particular, a material that can be decomposed at least under a natural environment, for example, It is preferable to be made of a biodegradable plastic that can be decomposed by microorganisms. That is, the fuel enclosing part is made of one or more substances or materials that are converted into substances constituting the soil in the natural environment by natural processing or artificial processing, such as biodegradability by microorganisms or enzymes, or light by light. It is made of a material having decomposability such as decomposability and hydrolysis by moisture.

[0015] As a result, the fuel filling portion, which becomes waste when the fuel for power generation is used up, is decomposed into, for example, water and carbon dioxide by microorganisms, enzymes, sunlight and the like in the soil. In addition, it is converted into a substance harmless to the natural world by artificial chemical treatment or incineration treatment. Therefore, even if the fuel-filled part is dumped or landfilled in the natural world or destroyed by an incinerator, it does not emit harmful substances to the natural world, and it does not impair the beauty of the natural environment for a long time. Therefore, it is possible to provide a power supply system that can significantly reduce the burden on the environment.

Further, the power supply system is configured such that when the fuel filling portion and the power generation module are connected, the power generation fuel sealed in the fuel filling portion is supplied to the power generation module. Generates autonomously a predetermined electric power required to drive a load using the power generation fuel supplied from the fuel filling section. That is, only when the fuel filling part is connected to the power generation module, the closed state by the control valve or the like for preventing the fuel filling part from being hermetically sealed or leaking out of the fuel is released, and the power generation part sealed inside is The fuel is supplied to the power generation module and the power generation operation is started autonomously, and by connecting this power supply system to the load, power for driving the load is supplied.

[0017] Therefore, the electric power to be supplied to the load can be independently generated by only a simple operation of connecting the fuel filling portion to the power generation module without receiving the supply of the fuel or the like from the outside of the power supply system. In addition, when the fuel filling portion is not connected to the power generation module, the power generation fuel sealed inside is configured not to leak, so that a power supply that can perform safe and simple fuel supply and power generation operation A system can be provided.

Further, the fuel filling portion is configured so that it can be removed from the power generation module or load, and injected and filled with the fuel for power generation repeatedly in accordance with the remaining amount of the fuel for power generation, so that the fuel can be replenished repeatedly. It may be. This allows
When the fuel for power generation filled in the fuel filling part runs out or becomes low, the fuel for power generation can be re-injected and filled, so the fuel filling part itself can be reused (recycled). In addition, the amount of waste generated can be reduced, and the burden on the environment can be further reduced.

In the power supply system, as a specific configuration of the power generation module, a configuration including a fuel cell that generates electric power by an electrochemical reaction using fuel for power generation supplied from a fuel filling portion is applied. Can be. As a result, electric power can be generated using a fuel cell having extremely high energy use efficiency as compared with a general-purpose chemical battery, so that energy can be effectively used and at the same time as an existing chemical battery. The power supply system (the power generation module and the fuel filling portion) required to obtain the electrical characteristics of the above can be reduced in size.

In this case, the fuel cell applied to the power generation module comprises: a fuel reformer for reforming the fuel for power generation to extract a specific component; a fuel electrode to which the specific component is supplied;
Preferably, the fuel cell is a fuel reforming type fuel cell including an air electrode to which oxygen in the air is supplied. According to the configuration using such a fuel reforming type fuel cell, by using a power generation fuel that is relatively easy to handle and obtain, the amount of the power generation fuel supplied to the fuel cell is controlled. Since it is possible to easily control the amount of electric power generated by the power generation module and to generate electric power with extremely high energy conversion efficiency from the chemical energy of the fuel for electric power generation and supply it to the load, fossil fuel It is possible to reduce the consumption of energy resources such as the above and achieve effective use.

In the above-mentioned power supply system, a configuration applicable to the power generation module includes, in addition to the fuel cell, a power generation device that generates electric power based on the combustion energy of the power generation fuel supplied from the fuel filling section. (Gas combustion turbines, rotary engines, Stirling engines,
Combination of a pulse combustion engine, etc., and a generator using the principles of electromagnetic induction and piezoelectric conversion) and the high temperature caused by the heat energy generated by the combustion reaction using the fuel for power generation and the constant temperature in other areas inside and outside the power supply system A power generator (thermo-acoustic power generator) that generates electric power by thermoelectric conversion based on a temperature difference, and a power generator (thermo-acoustic power generator) that generates electric power based on an external force generating effect by thermoacoustic effect using fuel for power generation Device), a power generation device (magnetohydrodynamic power generator) that generates electric power by magnetohydrodynamic power generation using a fuel for power generation, or the like.

Therefore, in the power supply system according to the present invention, the power generation module can generate predetermined power with high energy conversion efficiency using the fuel for power generation, and can be downsized and miniaturized. Among the various types of power generating devices having the above, a device having an arbitrary configuration can be appropriately selected and applied according to the external shape and electric characteristics of the power supply system.

The fuel for power generation applied to the power supply system is at least one of a liquid fuel, a liquefied fuel, and a gaseous fuel containing hydrogen as a main component or hydrogen, specifically, methanol. Or liquid fuels of alcohols such as ethanol, butanol, etc., liquefied fuels consisting of hydrocarbons such as dimethyl ether, isobutane, natural gas, or gaseous fuels such as hydrogen gas. Those which are in a gaseous state under predetermined environmental conditions, such as normal temperature and normal pressure, can be applied favorably. As a result, in the power generation operation of the power generation module, power can be generated with high energy conversion efficiency, and by-products generated in addition to the power due to the power generation operation can be detoxified and difficult to perform by relatively simple processing. It can be burned, and the effect on the natural environment and the like can be greatly suppressed.

Further, in the above-mentioned power supply system, a configuration having a remaining amount detecting means for detecting the remaining amount of the fuel for power generation sealed in the fuel filling portion can be applied. According to this, the remaining amount of fuel for power generation is constantly or periodically monitored,
When the remaining amount becomes low, it is possible to notify a user of a device or the like driven by the power supply system of the fact in advance. In addition, since the fuel filling portion is made of a transparent or translucent material, the user can visually check the remaining amount of the fuel for power generation sealed in the fuel filling portion. It is also possible to roughly grasp the charging time of the fuel for use. In addition, by controlling the state of power generation in the power generation module according to the remaining amount of power generation fuel detected by the remaining amount detection unit,
Electric power having an output voltage characteristic equivalent to that of a general-purpose chemical battery can be supplied to a load.

Further, in the power supply system, a by-product such as carbon dioxide (C) is generated during a power generation operation in the power generation module using the fuel for power generation.
O ₂ ), water (H ₂ O), nitrogen oxides (NO _X ), sulfur oxides (SO _X ), oxygen (O ₂ ), and other by-products that collect and retain all or some of the components It is also possible to apply a configuration provided with a material recovery unit. According to this, by-products are discharged or leaked into and out of the power supply system, so that it is possible to prevent malfunction or deterioration of devices and the like driven by the power supply system, and to prevent pollution of the natural environment. Here, by applying a configuration in which the by-product is collected and held in the fuel filling portion, the remaining amount of the fuel for power generation decreases,
When replacing a new fuel filling section, the used fuel filling section can be collected and the by-products can be appropriately processed in a manner that does not burden the natural environment. Pollution and global warming can be prevented.

Further, in the above-mentioned power supply system, a configuration having a fuel stabilizing means for stabilizing a state (temperature, pressure, etc.) of the fuel for power generation sealed in the fuel filling section can be applied. . According to this, when a state in which the temperature, pressure, etc. in the fuel filling section abnormally rises is detected, the abnormal state is detected, supply of the fuel for power generation to the power generation module is stopped, and the pressure of the filling pressure is reduced. By performing operations such as opening, the sealed state of the fuel for power generation can be shifted to the stabilized state, so that the safety and reliability of the power supply system using flammable and flammable power generation fuel can be improved. Can be secured.

[0027]

Embodiments of a power supply system according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
First, an overall outline to which a power supply system according to the present invention is applied will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram showing an application form of a power supply system according to the present invention.

The power supply system 1 according to the present invention includes, for example,
As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, in addition to a specific electric / electronic device, an existing electric / electronic device operated by a general-purpose primary battery or a secondary battery (in FIG. 1, an information portable terminal is shown. :
Hereinafter, the whole or a part of the DVC will be arbitrarily attached and detached (arrow P1).
The power supply system 1 is configured such that the whole or a part of the power supply system 1 can be carried independently, and a predetermined position of the power supply system 1 (for example, a general-purpose primary (Position equivalent to batteries and secondary batteries)
And an electrode composed of a plus (+) pole and a minus (-) pole.

Next, the basic configuration of the power supply system according to the present invention will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a basic configuration of the power supply system according to the present invention. The power supply system 1 according to the present invention is roughly classified as shown in FIG.
Based on the fuel pack (fuel filling portion) 20 in which the power generation fuel FL made of a liquid fuel, a liquefied fuel, or a gaseous fuel is filled, and at least the power generation fuel FL supplied from the fuel pack 20, the device DVC A power generation module 10 that generates (generates) electric power EG corresponding to a driving state (load state), a fuel pack 20 and a power generation module 10
An interface unit (hereinafter, referred to as an interface unit) having a fuel delivery path and the like that physically couples each other and supplies the power generation fuel FL sealed in the fuel pack 20 to the power generation module 10.
30), and the respective components are configured to be connected or separated (detachable) from each other or in an arbitrary form.

Here, as shown in FIG. 2 (a), the I / F section 30 includes the fuel pack 20 and the power generation module 1 as described above.
0 and may be configured to be detachable from each of the fuel pack 20 and the power generation module 10, or as shown in FIGS. 2 (b) and 2 (c). The fuel pack 20 or the power generation module 10 may be configured integrally with the power generation module 10 or the fuel pack 20 so as to be detachable. In each configuration shown in FIG.
The power generation module 10 (FIGS. 2A and 2B) or the power generation module 10 and the I / F unit 30 (FIG.
(Case (c)) has a configuration that is integrated into the device DVC, and at least the fuel pack 20 is
It may be configured to be detachable from the VC.

Hereinafter, each block configuration will be specifically described. First Embodiment (A) Power Generation Module FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a first embodiment of a power generation module applied to the power supply system according to the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 3, the power generation module 10A according to the present embodiment is roughly divided into a predetermined power by using a power generation fuel supplied from the fuel pack 20A via the I / F unit 30A. The power generated by the controller CNT that is generated independently at all times and is at least built in the device DVC connected to the power supply system 1 and controls the driving state of the load LD (element or module having various functions of the device DVC). Hereinafter, referred to as “controller power”), and a sub-power supply unit 11 that is output as operation power of an operation control unit 13 described later provided in the power generation module 10A, and operates by power supplied from the sub-power supply unit 11. , An operation control unit 13 for controlling the operation state of the entire power supply system 1, and a fuel for power generation supplied from a fuel pack 20A via an I / F unit 30A Generates predetermined electric power (electric energy) by using a specific fuel component extracted from the fuel for power generation, and drives at least various functions (load LD) of the device DVC connected to the power supply system 1. A main power generation unit 12 that outputs as load drive power, an output control unit 14 that controls at least a supply amount of power generation fuel to the main power generation unit 12 based on an operation control signal from the operation control unit 13, and an operation control A start control unit 15 that controls at least the main power generation unit 12 to transition (start) from a standby state to an operation state capable of generating power based on an operation control signal from the unit 13. . That is, the power supply system 1 according to the present embodiment is provided outside the system (the power generation module 10A, the fuel pack 20A, and the I / F unit 30A).
) Can output a predetermined electric power (load driving electric power) to the device DVC connected to the power supply system 1 without depending on the fuel supply and control from the power supply system 1.

<Sub-power unit 11> The sub-power unit 11 applied to the power generation module according to the present embodiment includes a power generation fuel FL supplied from the fuel pack 20A as shown in FIG.
The power supply system 1 is configured to always and independently generate predetermined electric power required for the starting operation of the power supply system 1 using physical or chemical energy or the like of the power supply system 1. This power is roughly divided into controller power to the device DVC,
In addition, the power E constantly supplied as the operation power of the operation control unit 13 that controls the operation state of the entire power generation module 10A.
1 and at the time of activation of the power generation module 10A, at least
The electric power E2 is supplied to the output control unit 14 (including the main power generation unit 12 depending on the configuration) and the start control unit 15 as start electric power.

The specific configuration of the sub power supply unit 11 is, for example, the power generation fuel FL supplied from the fuel pack 20A.
By electrochemical reaction using fuel (fuel cell) or by thermal energy due to catalytic combustion reaction (temperature difference power generation)
In addition to the fuel pack 20A.
By a dynamic energy conversion function of generating electric power by rotating a power generator using the filling pressure of the power generation fuel FL filled in the gas or gas pressure generated by vaporization of the fuel (gas turbine power generation, etc.) A fuel that captures electrons generated by metabolism (photosynthesis, respiration, etc.) by microorganisms or the like that use the fuel FL for power generation as a nutrient, and directly converts it into electric power (biochemical power generation). One that converts vibration energy generated by FL fluid energy into electric power using the principle of electromagnetic induction (vibration power generation), one that is discharged from a single power storage means such as a secondary battery (rechargeable battery) or a capacitor, The power generated by each of the above-described power generating components is stored in a power storage means (such as a secondary battery or a capacitor) and released (discharged). It is possible to apply.

Hereinafter, each specific example will be briefly described with reference to the drawings. (First Configuration Example of Sub-Power Supply Unit) FIG. 4 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a first configuration example of the sub-power supply unit applicable to the power supply module according to the present embodiment. Here, description will be made with reference to the configuration of the power supply system (FIG. 3) as appropriate. In the first configuration example, as a specific example of the auxiliary power supply unit, a fuel direct supply system that generates electric power (the above-described electric power E1 and E2) by an electrochemical reaction using power generation fuel FL directly supplied from the fuel pack 20A. Has a configuration of a polymer electrolyte fuel cell employing the above.

As shown in FIG. 4, the auxiliary power supply unit 11A according to this configuration example includes a fuel electrode (cathode) 111 composed of a carbon electrode to which predetermined catalyst particles such as platinum, palladium, and platinum / ruthenium are adhered. Electrode (anode) 112 composed of a carbon electrode to which predetermined catalyst particles such as platinum and platinum are attached
And a film-like ion conductive film (exchange membrane) 113 interposed between the fuel electrode 111 and the air electrode 112. Here, the fuel for power generation (for example, alcohols such as methanol and water) sealed in the fuel pack 20A is directly supplied to the fuel electrode 111, while the oxygen gas (O _{2) in the} atmosphere is supplied to the air electrode 112. ) Is supplied.

In the sub power supply unit (fuel cell) 11A,
An example of the electrochemical reaction is, specifically, methanol (CH
₃OH) and water (H₂O) is directly supplied to the anode 111.
As shown in the following chemical reaction formula (1), the catalytic reaction
The electron (e⁻) Is separated into hydrogen ions (protons;
H⁺) Is generated, and the air electrode 1 is
12 and the fuel constituting the fuel electrode 111.
The electrons (e ⁻) Is taken out and the load 114
(Predetermined configuration inside and outside the power supply system; here, device
DVC controller CNT, operation control unit 13, main power generation
Unit 12, output control unit 14, etc.). Note that this
Trace amount of diacid other than hydrogen ion generated by catalytic reaction
Carbonized (CO₂) Is, for example, the atmosphere from the fuel electrode 111 side.
Is discharged inside. CH₃OH + H₂O → 6H⁺+ 6e⁻+ CO₂ ... (1)

On the other hand, when air (oxygen O ₂ ) is supplied to the air electrode 112, as shown in the following chemical reaction formula (2), electrons (e ⁻ ) and ionic conduction via the load 114 are caused by a catalytic reaction. The hydrogen ions (H ⁺ ) that have passed through the membrane 113 react with oxygen gas (O ₂ ) in the air to generate water (H ₂ O). 6H ⁺ + (3/2) O ₂ + 6e ⁻ → 3H ₂ O (2)

Such a series of electrochemical reactions (chemical reaction formulas (1) and (2)) proceed in a relatively low-temperature environment of about room temperature. Here, water (H ₂ O), which is a by-product generated at the air electrode 112, is collected and supplied to the fuel electrode 111 side in a required amount, whereby the catalyst reaction represented by the chemical reaction formula (1) is performed. Since it can be reused as a raw material and the amount of water (H ₂ O) stored (enclosed) in the fuel pack 20A in advance can be greatly reduced,
While the volume of the fuel pack 20A is significantly reduced, the sub power supply unit 11 can be operated continuously for a long time to supply a predetermined power. The configuration of the by-product recovery means for recovering and reusing by-products such as water (H ₂ O) generated at the air electrode 112 will be described later together with the same configuration in the main power generation unit 12.

By applying the fuel cell having such a configuration to the auxiliary power supply unit, the peripheral configuration can be omitted as compared with other systems (for example, a fuel reforming type fuel cell described later). The configuration of the sub-power supply unit 11A can be simplified and downsized, and the fuel provided in the I / F unit 30A can be formed only by a very simple operation of connecting the fuel pack 20A to the power generation module 10A. A predetermined amount of fuel for power generation is automatically fed into the sub power supply unit 11A (fuel electrode 111) by a capillary phenomenon via the transport pipe,
The power generation operation based on the chemical reaction formulas (1) and (2) can be started and continued.

Therefore, as long as the fuel for power generation from the fuel pack 20A continues to be supplied, the auxiliary power unit 11A constantly and independently generates predetermined electric power, thereby controlling the controller power of the device DVC and the operation of the operation control unit 13. The power can be supplied as starting power to the main power generation unit 12 or the output control unit 14. Further, in the above-described fuel cell, since power is directly generated from the fuel for power generation by utilizing an electrochemical reaction, extremely high power generation efficiency can be realized, and effective use of energy resources and auxiliary power supply can be achieved. Since the power generation module including the unit can be reduced in size and does not have vibration or noise, it can be used for a wide range of devices like general-purpose primary batteries and secondary batteries.

In the fuel cell of this configuration example, only the case where methanol is applied as the fuel for power generation supplied from the fuel pack 20A is shown. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and at least Any of a liquid fuel, a liquefied fuel, and a gaseous fuel containing hydrogen as a main component or made of hydrogen may be used. Specifically, it is an alcohol-based liquid fuel such as methanol, ethanol, or butanol described above, a liquefied fuel composed of a hydrocarbon such as dimethyl ether, isobutane, or natural gas (CNG), or a gaseous fuel such as hydrogen gas. ,In particular,
Those which are in a gaseous state under predetermined environmental conditions such as normal temperature and normal pressure when supplied from the fuel pack 20A to the sub-power supply unit 11A can be applied favorably.

(Second Configuration Example of Sub-Power Supply Unit) FIG. 5 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a second configuration example of the sub-power supply unit applicable to the power supply module according to the present embodiment. In the second configuration example, as a specific example of the sub-power supply unit, a pressure driving engine (gas turbine) is driven by pressure energy (filled pressure or gas pressure) of the fuel for power generation sealed in the fuel pack 20A. It has a configuration as a power generation device that converts drive energy into electric power.

As shown in FIGS. 5 (a) and 5 (b), the sub power supply section 11B according to the present configuration example has a plurality of blades that are curved along a predetermined circumferential direction while being substantially radially formed. Arrayed,
And a movable blade 1 configured to be freely rotatable.
22a, a generator 125 that is directly connected to the center of rotation of the movable blade 122a, and converts the rotational energy of the movable blade 122a into electric power based on the well-known principle of electromagnetic induction or piezoelectric conversion, and a plurality of blades of the movable blade 122a. A fixed blade 122b that is arranged in a substantially radial shape while being curved in a direction opposite to the movable blade 122a along the outer peripheral side, and that is fixed relatively to the movable blade 122a;
An intake control unit 123 that controls the supply of vaporized power generation fuel (fuel gas) to a gas turbine 122 that includes a gas turbine 122 and an exhaust control unit that controls discharge of the power generation fuel after passing through the gas turbine 122. 124. Here, the sub power supply unit 11B including the gas turbine 122, the intake control unit 123, and the exhaust control unit 124
Is formed by applying so-called micro-machine manufacturing technology including micro-fabrication technology accumulated in the field of semiconductor manufacturing technology, for example, by integrating in a minute space on a single silicon chip 121. can do. In FIG. 5A, in order to clarify the configuration of the gas turbine 122, the movable blade 122a
In addition, it is shown that the fixed blade 122b is exposed for convenience.

In the auxiliary power supply unit 11B, for example, as shown in FIG. 5B, the fuel pack 20 is moved from the fixed blade 122b side of the gas turbine 122 to the movable blade 122a side via the intake control unit 123. The high-pressure fuel gas in which the liquid fuel enclosed in the fuel gas is vaporized is sucked (see arrow P2), thereby generating a vortex flow of the fuel gas along the curved direction of the fixed blade 122b.
a rotates in a predetermined direction to drive the generator 125.
Thereby, the pressure energy of the fuel gas is converted into electric power via the gas turbine 122 and the generator 125.

That is, the sub power supply section 11B according to this configuration example
The power generation fuel applied to at least the intake control unit 1
When the gas is blown into the gas turbine 122 when the gas is blown into the gas turbine 122, the gas in the gas turbine 122 is blown at a lower pressure, for example, at normal pressure. The movable blade 122a is rotated at a predetermined rotation speed (or rotation speed) in a predetermined direction by a gas flow based on a pressure difference caused by being discharged toward a certain outside air. Generate power.

The fuel gas which has contributed to the rotation of the movable blade 122a and reduced in pressure (consumption of pressure energy) is discharged to the outside of the sub power supply section 11B via the exhaust control section 124. In the power generation module 10A shown in FIG. 3, the configuration has been described in which the fuel gas (exhaust gas) discharged from the sub power supply unit 11 is directly discharged to the outside of the power supply system 1, but the present invention is not limited to this. However, as shown in an embodiment described later, the main power generation unit 12
May be configured to be reused as a fuel for power generation.

Therefore, the sub-power supply unit 11 according to this configuration example
In B, the power generation fuel (fuel gas) FL supplied from the fuel pack 20A is not necessarily flammable (or
In particular, in a configuration in which the fuel gas used for generating the electric power is directly discharged to the outside of the power supply system 1, the fuel FL for power generation is discharged as the discharge gas. In consideration of this, it is desirable that the material has nonflammability or flame retardancy and has no toxicity. When the fuel for power generation is composed of a substance containing a combustible or toxic component, it is needless to say that a process for making the fuel inflammable or detoxifying is required before the exhaust gas is discharged to the outside.

In a configuration in which electric power is generated based on the pressure energy of the fuel gas, as in the sub power supply section 11B according to this configuration example, the fuel gas passes through the sub power supply section 11B (gas turbine 122). By-products (water, etc.) like the electrochemical reaction in the fuel cell described above
When non-flammable or non-flammable, non-toxic substances are used as fuel for power generation,
Even if a substance having flammability or toxicity is included, if it has a configuration for performing a process of making it flame-retardant or detoxifying before discharging it to the outside of the power supply system 1, a means for collecting exhaust gas is provided. No need.

By applying the power generator having such a configuration to the sub-power supply section, as in the first configuration example described above, only a very simple operation of connecting the fuel pack 20A to the power generation module 10A is performed. , The high-pressure power generation fuel (fuel gas) FL via the I / F unit 30A
B (gas turbine 122), the power generation operation can be started and continued, and as long as the supply of the power generation fuel FL continues, predetermined power is constantly supplied by the sub power supply unit 11B. , Autonomously generated power system 1
It can be supplied to a predetermined configuration inside and outside.

(Third Configuration Example of Sub-Power Supply Unit) FIG. 6 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a third configuration example of the sub-power supply unit applicable to the power supply module according to the present embodiment. In the third configuration example, as a specific example of the auxiliary power supply unit, a pressure driving engine (rotary engine) is driven by pressure energy (enclosed pressure or gas pressure) of the power generation fuel FL sealed in the fuel pack 20A, It has a configuration as a power generation device that converts the driving energy into electric power.

As shown in FIG. 6, the auxiliary power supply 11C according to the third configuration example has an elliptical working space 131 whose outer periphery is roughly elliptical.
a, a rotor 132 having a substantially triangular cross section that rotates around the central axis 133 along the inner wall of the working space 131a, and a generator (not shown) directly connected to the central axis 133; Is configured. Here, the configuration of the sub-power supply unit 11C can be formed by, for example, being integrated in a minute space on the order of millimeters by applying a micromachine manufacturing technique, similarly to the above-described respective configuration examples.

In the sub-power supply section 11C having such a configuration, the working space 131a is maintained at almost normal temperature.
When the fuel is filled in the working space 131a from the intake port 134a in a liquid state, the fuel vaporizes and expands and the exhaust port 134a
By controlling the b side to a low pressure, for example, normal pressure, a pressure difference is generated between the inner wall of the working space 131a and each working chamber formed by the rotor 132, as shown in FIGS. 6 (a) to 6 (c). When the vaporized fuel gas flows from the intake port 134a to the exhaust port 134b, the rotor 132 rotates along the outer circumference of the central shaft 133 due to the pressure of the fuel gas (arrow P3). As a result, the pressure energy of the fuel gas is converted into rotational energy of the central shaft 133 and is converted into electric power by a generator connected to the central shaft 133.

Here, the generator applied to this configuration example is
As in the second configuration example described above, a power generator using a known principle such as electromagnetic induction or piezoelectric conversion can be favorably applied. In addition, this configuration example also has a configuration in which electric power is generated based on the pressure energy of the fuel gas, so that the fuel gas only passes through the sub power supply unit 11C (the working space 131a in the housing 131). Since power is generated, it is not always necessary to have combustibility (or flammability) as a fuel for power generation, and at least a predetermined temperature such as normal temperature and normal pressure when supplied to the sub-power supply unit 11C. Under such environmental conditions, any substance that can be a high-pressure fuel gas that is vaporized and expanded to a predetermined volume can be applied favorably.

Therefore, by applying the power generator having such a configuration to the sub power supply unit, as in each of the above-described configuration examples, only a very simple operation of connecting the fuel pack 20A to the power generation module 10A is performed. , I / F section 3
0A, the high-pressure power generation fuel (fuel gas) FL is automatically sent to the sub-power supply unit 11C (working space 131a) to start and continue the power generation operation. As long as the supply of FL continues,
The predetermined power can always be generated independently by the 1C and supplied to a predetermined configuration inside and outside the power supply system 1.

(Fourth Configuration Example of Sub-Power Supply Unit) FIG. 7 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a fourth configuration example of the sub-power supply unit applicable to the power supply module according to the present embodiment. In the fourth configuration example, as a specific example of the sub power supply unit, thermoelectric conversion power generation utilizing a temperature difference generated by generating thermal energy based on a catalytic combustion reaction of the power generation fuel FL sealed in the fuel pack 20A. As a power generating device that generates electric power.

As shown in FIG. 7A, a sub-power supply 11D according to the fourth configuration example generally includes a catalytic combustion section 141 for catalytically combusting the power generation fuel FL to generate thermal energy.
A constant temperature section 142 for maintaining a substantially constant temperature; a catalytic combustion section 141 as a first temperature end; and a constant temperature section 142 as a second temperature end, which are connected between the first and second temperature ends. And a thermoelectric conversion element 143. Here, as shown in FIG. 7B, the ends of two types of semiconductors or metals (hereinafter, referred to as “metals or the like”) MA and MB are joined (for example, metal). The metal etc. MB is joined to both ends of the same MA, respectively, and the respective joints N1 and N2 are connected to the catalytic combustion section 141 (first
(The temperature end) and the constant temperature part 142 (the second temperature end). Further, the constant temperature section 142 is configured to be constantly exposed to the outside air, for example, through an opening provided in a device DVC to which the power supply system 1 is mounted, and to maintain a substantially constant temperature. The configuration of the sub power supply unit 11D including the temperature difference generator shown in FIG.
In the same manner as in each of the above-described configuration examples, by applying the micromachine manufacturing technology, the semiconductor device can be formed in an integrated manner in a minute space.

As shown in FIG. 7C, in the sub-power supply section 11D having such a configuration, the power generation fuel (combustion gas) FL sealed in the fuel pack 20A is supplied to the I / F section 30.
When supplied to the catalytic combustion unit 141 via A, heat is generated by the catalytic combustion reaction, and the temperature of the catalytic combustion unit 141 (first temperature end) increases. On the other hand, the temperature of the constant temperature part 142 is
Since it is configured to be kept substantially constant, a temperature difference occurs between the catalytic combustion unit 141 and the constant temperature unit 142. Then, based on the temperature difference, the thermoelectric conversion element 14
By the Seebeck effect in No. 3, a predetermined electromotive force is generated to generate power.

More specifically, the first temperature end (joint N1)
Is defined as Ta, and the temperature at the second temperature end (joint N2) is defined as Tb (<Ta).
When the difference between a and Tb is small, Vab = Sab × (Ta−T) between the output terminals Oa and Ob shown in FIG.
The voltage of b) results. Here, Sab is MA or M
B is the relative Seebeck coefficient.

Therefore, by applying the power generating device having such a configuration to the sub power supply unit, as in the above-described respective configuration examples, only a very simple operation of connecting the fuel pack 20A to the power generating module 10A is performed. , I / F section 3
The fuel for power generation (liquid fuel or liquefied fuel or gaseous fuel) is automatically sent to the sub-power supply unit 11D (catalyst combustion unit 141) via 0A to generate thermal energy associated with the catalytic combustion reaction, and the above temperature The power generation operation by the difference power generator can be started and continued, and as long as the supply of the power generation fuel FL continues, predetermined power is constantly and independently generated by the sub power supply unit 11D, and the power supply system 1 is internally and externally powered. To a predetermined configuration.

In this embodiment, the catalytic combustion unit 1
Although the temperature difference generator that generates electric power by the Seebeck effect based on the temperature difference between the temperature control unit 41 and the constant temperature unit 142 has been described, the present invention is not limited to this.
A configuration may be employed in which power is generated based on a thermoelectron emission phenomenon in which free electrons are emitted from the metal surface by heating the metal.

(Fifth Configuration Example of Sub-Power Supply Unit) FIG. 8 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a fifth configuration example of the sub-power supply unit applicable to the power supply module according to the present embodiment. In the fifth configuration example, as a specific example of the sub-power supply unit, a temperature difference generated by the thermal power (liquid fuel) FL enclosed in the fuel pack 20A absorbing heat energy based on a vaporization reaction is used. It has a configuration as a power generation device that generates electric power by thermoelectric conversion power generation.

As shown in FIG. 8A, the sub power supply section 11E according to the fifth configuration example absorbs thermal energy when the fuel for power generation (particularly, liquefied fuel) FL is vaporized. Heat holding unit 151 that holds cold heat realized by
A constant-temperature section 152 for maintaining a substantially constant temperature; a thermoelectric element connected between the first and second temperature ends, with the cold-heat holding section 151 as a first temperature end and the constant-temperature section 152 as a second temperature end. And a conversion element 153. Here, the thermoelectric conversion element 153 has the same configuration as that shown in the above-described fourth configuration example (see FIG. 7B). The constant temperature section 152 is configured to maintain a substantially constant temperature by contacting or being exposed to other areas inside and outside the power supply system 1. The configuration of the sub power supply unit 11E composed of the temperature difference generator shown in FIG. 8 is also integrated and formed in a minute space, similarly to the above-described respective configuration examples.

As shown in FIG. 8B, in the sub-power supply unit 11E having such a configuration, for example, the power generation fuel (liquefied fuel) FL sealed under predetermined pressure conditions in the fuel pack 20A is subjected to I / O. The sub power supply unit 11E via the F unit 30A
The fuel cell FL is vaporized by shifting to a predetermined environmental condition such as normal temperature and normal pressure, and at this time, heat energy is absorbed from the surroundings, and the temperature of the cold storage unit 151 decreases. On the other hand, since the temperature of the constant temperature section 152 is configured to be kept substantially constant,
A temperature difference occurs between the temperature and the constant temperature section 152. And
Based on this temperature difference, a predetermined electromotive force is generated by the Seebeck effect of the thermoelectric conversion element 153, as in the fourth configuration example described above, and power is generated.

Therefore, by applying the power generation device having such a configuration to the sub power supply unit, as in the above-described respective configuration examples, only a very simple operation of connecting the fuel pack 20A to the power generation module 10A is performed. , I / F section 3
0A, the power generation fuel (liquefied fuel) FL is supplied to the sub power supply unit 1
1E, the thermal energy is absorbed by the vaporization reaction to generate cold heat, the power generation operation by the temperature difference generator can be started and continued, and the supply of the power generation fuel FL is continued. As long as the power is supplied, the sub power supply unit 11E can always and independently generate predetermined power and supply the power to a predetermined configuration inside and outside the power supply system 1. In the present configuration example, the temperature difference generator that generates electric power by the Seebeck effect based on the temperature difference between the cold heat holding unit 151 and the constant temperature unit 152 has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Instead, a configuration may be employed in which power is generated based on the thermoelectron emission phenomenon.

(Sixth Configuration Example of Sub-Power Supply Unit) FIG. 9 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a sixth configuration example of the sub-power supply unit applicable to the power supply module according to the present embodiment. In the sixth configuration example, as a specific example of the sub-power supply unit, there is a configuration as a power generation device that generates electric power using a biochemical reaction with respect to the fuel for power generation sealed in the fuel pack 20A. .

As shown in FIG. 9, the sub-power supply section 11F according to the sixth configuration example is generally composed of microorganisms and biocatalysts (hereinafter referred to as "microorganisms" for convenience) that grow using fuel for power generation as a nutrient source. The living body culture tank 161 in which BIO is stored, and an anode electrode 161a and a cathode electrode 161b provided in the living body culture tank 161 are provided. In such a configuration, the I / F unit 3 is connected to the fuel pack 20A.
When the fuel FL for power generation is supplied via OA, metabolism (biochemical reaction) such as respiration by microorganisms such as BIO occurs in the living body culture tank 161 to generate electrons (e ⁻ ). Then, by capturing the electrons by the anode-side electrode 161a, predetermined power is obtained from the output terminals Oa and Ob.

Therefore, by applying the power generator having such a configuration to the sub-power supply section, as in each of the above-described configuration examples, only a very simple operation of connecting the fuel pack 20A to the power generation module 10A is performed. , I / F section 3
The fuel for power generation FL, which is a nutrient source of BIO such as microorganisms, is automatically sent to the sub power supply unit 11F (living culture tank 161) via OA, and the power generation operation by the biochemical reaction of BIO such as microorganisms starts. Furthermore, as long as the supply of the fuel for power generation is continued, the predetermined power can be constantly generated independently and supplied to a predetermined configuration inside and outside the power supply system 1.

In the above-mentioned biochemical reaction, when power is generated using photosynthesis by BIO such as a microorganism, for example, an opening provided in advance in a device DVC to which the power supply system 1 is mounted is provided. Also, by configuring the external light to enter through a device DVC housing or the like made of a transparent or translucent material, predetermined power can always be generated and supplied autonomously. .

(Seventh Configuration Example of Sub-Power Supply Unit) FIG. 10 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a seventh configuration example of the sub-power supply unit applicable to the power supply module according to the present embodiment. In the seventh configuration example, as a specific example of the sub power supply unit, the fuel pack 20A
As a power generation device that converts vibration energy generated by fluid movement of the power generation fuel supplied from the power supply into electric power.

As shown in FIG. 10A, at least one end of the sub-power supply section 11G according to the seventh configuration can vibrate when the power generation fuel composed of liquid or gas moves in a predetermined direction. The vibration end 17
A vibrator 171 provided with an electromagnetic coil 173 in 1a;
A permanent magnet 174 is provided opposite to the electromagnetic coil 173, and does not generate vibration with respect to the movement of the fuel for power generation.
72 as a vibration power generator. In such a configuration, as shown in FIG. 10B, by supplying the power generation fuel FL from the fuel pack 20A via the I / F unit 30A, the flow direction of the power generation fuel FL is substantially orthogonal. Direction (arrow P4 in the figure)
Next, the vibrator 171 (the vibrating end 171) is
a) generates vibration at a predetermined frequency. This vibration causes a change in the relative position between the permanent magnet 174 and the electromagnetic coil 173, thereby causing electromagnetic induction and causing the electromagnetic coil 1
Predetermined power is obtained through 73.

Therefore, by applying the power generating device having such a configuration to the sub power supply unit, as in the above-described respective configuration examples, only an extremely simple operation of connecting the fuel pack 20A to the power generating module 10A is performed. , I / F section 3
0A, the fuel FL for power generation as a fluid is
1G is automatically sent to the 1G
The power generation operation by the conversion of vibration energy of 1 is started,
Furthermore, as long as the supply of the power generation fuel FL is continued, predetermined power can be constantly generated independently and supplied to a predetermined configuration inside and outside the power supply system 1.

Note that each of the above configuration examples is merely an example of the sub power supply section 11 applied to the power generation module 10A, and does not limit the configuration of the power supply system according to the present invention. In short, the sub power supply unit 11 applied to the present invention is configured such that the liquid fuel, the liquefied fuel, or the gaseous fuel sealed in the fuel pack 20A is directly supplied,
Any other components can be used as long as they can generate power based on an energy conversion action, such as a temperature difference caused by an electrochemical reaction, electromagnetic induction, heat generation, and endothermic reaction inside the sub-power supply unit 11. For example, it may be a combination of a gas pressure driven engine other than a gas turbine or a rotary engine and a generator by electromagnetic induction or piezoelectric conversion, or as described below, 1
In addition to the power generation device equivalent to the first power generation device 1, a power storage unit (power storage device) is provided, and after a part of the power generated by the sub power supply unit 11 is stored, the power supply system 1 (main power generation unit 12) is activated. Alternatively, a configuration in which the main power generation unit 12 or the output control unit 14 is supplied as starting power may be applied.

(Eighth Configuration Example of Sub-Power Supply Unit) FIG. 11 is a schematic configuration diagram showing an eighth configuration example of the sub-power supply unit applicable to the power supply module according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 11, in the sub power supply unit 11H according to the eighth configuration example, the power generation fuel (liquid fuel or liquefied fuel or gaseous fuel) FL sealed in the fuel pack 20A is generally supplied to the I / F unit 30. A power generation device capable of autonomously generating electric power serving as controller electric power, operating electric power, and starting electric power by being directly supplied by a capillary phenomenon via a provided fuel transport pipe (for example, each of the above-described configuration examples) 181)
And a charge storage unit 1 including a secondary battery or a capacitor for storing a part of the electric power generated by the power generation device 181.
82, and a switch 183 that switches between accumulation and release of electric power to and from the electric charge accumulation unit 182 based on an operation control signal from the operation control unit 13.

In such a configuration, while the supply of the fuel for power generation from the fuel pack is continued, the electric power generated by the power generator 181 which is always driven is supplied to the device D.
It is output as the controller power of the VC and the operation power of the operation control unit 13, and a part of the power is output from the switch 183.
Is stored in the charge storage unit 182 via the. Then, for example, the operation control unit 13 receives, via the terminal unit 184, load drive information output from the controller CNT of the device DVC, which activates the load LD from the off state and switches the load LD to the on state, and receives the device DVC (load LD ) Is detected, the connection state of the switch 183 is switched based on the operation control signal output from the operation control unit 13, and the power stored in the charge storage unit 182 is changed to the main power generation unit 12 or the output. It is supplied to the control unit 14 as starting power.

Therefore, according to the auxiliary power supply unit having such a configuration, even when the power generated by the power generation device 181 per unit time is set to a low drive power characteristic (weak power). , By instantaneously releasing the power stored in the charge storage unit 182,
2 or the output control unit 14 can be supplied with power having sufficiently high driving power characteristics. Therefore, the power generator 1
Since the power generation capacity of the power supply 81 can be set to a sufficiently small value, the configuration of the sub power supply unit 11 can be reduced in size.

In this configuration example, a configuration has been described which includes a power generation device that independently generates power serving as controller power, operating power, and starting power, and a charge storage unit that stores and discharges this power. However, the present invention is not limited to this. It may emit electric charges corresponding to electric power. Here, the charge accumulating unit performs not only a discharging operation of discharging electric charges corresponding to the power but also a charging operation of accumulating a part of electric power output as load driving electric power from the main power generation unit 12 described later. It may be configured as follows. In this case, as a specific configuration of the charge storage unit, for example,
A well-known electric double layer capacitor can be applied favorably.

<Main Power Generation Unit 12> The main power generation unit 12 applied to the power generation module according to the present embodiment is supplied from the fuel pack 20A based on the start control by the operation control unit 13, as shown in FIG. Device DVC using physical or chemical energy of the generated power generation fuel FL
(Load LD) is configured to generate a predetermined power (power serving as load driving power) required to drive the (load LD). Specific configurations of the main power generation unit 12 include, for example, a configuration based on an electrochemical reaction (fuel cell) using the power generation fuel FL supplied from the fuel pack 20A, and a configuration based on thermal energy accompanying a combustion reaction (temperature difference). Power generation), a mechanical energy conversion function that generates electric power by rotating a generator using pressure energy associated with combustion reactions (internal combustion,
(External combustion engine power generation), and those that convert fluid energy or heat energy of power generation fuel FL into electric power using the principle of electromagnetic induction (magnetohydrodynamic power generation, thermoacoustic power generation, etc.)
For example, various modes can be applied.

Here, since the power generated by the main generator 12 is the main power for driving various functions (load LD) of the entire device DVC, the driving power characteristic is set high. Therefore, the controller power of the device DVC generated by the sub power supply unit 11 and the operation control unit 1
The characteristic is different from the power used as the operation power of No. 3 and the like.

Hereinafter, each specific example will be briefly described with reference to the drawings. (First Configuration Example of Main Power Generation Unit) FIG. 12 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a first configuration example of a main power generation unit applicable to the power supply module according to the present embodiment, and FIG. FIG. 4 is a conceptual diagram showing a hydrogen generation process in a fuel reforming section applied to a main power generation section according to the first embodiment. Here, description will be made with reference to the configuration of the power supply system (FIG. 3) as appropriate. In the first configuration example, as a specific example of the main power generation unit, the fuel pack 2
It has a configuration of a polymer electrolyte fuel cell adopting a fuel reforming method of generating power by an electrochemical reaction using power generation fuel FL supplied from 0A via an output control unit 14.

As shown in FIG. 12, the main power generation unit 12A
Broadly, the power generation fuel FL is supplied from the fuel pack 20A by utilizing a predetermined reforming reaction with the power generation fuel FL.
A fuel reformer (fuel reformer) 210a for extracting a predetermined fuel component (hydrogen) contained in L, a fuel reformer 210a
Cell body 210b that generates predetermined power for driving load 214 (load LD of device DVC) by an electrochemical reaction using the fuel component extracted by
And is configured.

As shown in FIG. 13 (a), the fuel reforming section 210a generally comprises a fuel pack 20A and an output control section 14a.
The fuel component is extracted from the power generation fuel FL supplied through the fuel cell through each process including the evaporation and the steam reforming reaction, and is supplied to the fuel cell main body 210b. For example, methanol (CH ₃ OH) and water (H ₂ O) are converted into fuel F for power generation.
In the case of generating hydrogen gas (H ₂ ) as L, first, in a vaporization process, an atmosphere of a temperature condition of approximately 100 ° C. is set with respect to methanol and water as liquid fuels by using a heater. By absorbing heat energy of 41.7 kJ / mol, methanol (CH ₃ OH) and water (H ₂
O) is vaporized.

Next, in the steam reforming reaction process,
The vaporized methanol (CH ₃ OH) and water (H
By setting the atmosphere of a temperature of approximately 300 ° C. by the heater against _{2 O),} and absorbs the heat energy of 49.4kJ / mol, as shown in the following chemical equation (3), hydrogen ( H ₂ ) and a trace amount of carbon dioxide (CO ₂ ) are produced. In this steam reforming reaction, a small amount of carbon monoxide (CO) may be generated as a by-product other than hydrogen (H ₂ ) and carbon dioxide (CO ₂ ). CH ₃ OH + H ₂ O → 3H ₂ + CO ₂ (3)

Here, as shown in FIG. 13B, a selective oxidation catalyst section 210c for removing carbon monoxide (CO) generated as a by-product in the steam reforming reaction is replaced with a fuel reforming section 210a. Is provided at the subsequent stage to convert carbon monoxide (CO) into carbon dioxide (CO ₂ ) and hydrogen (H ₂ ) through respective processes including an aqueous shift reaction and a selective oxidation reaction, thereby discharging harmful substances. May be suppressed. More specifically, in the aqueous shift reaction process, carbon monoxide (CO) is reacted with water (steam; H ₂ O) to generate heat energy of 40.2 kJ / mol to generate the next chemical reaction. As shown in equation (4), carbon dioxide (CO ₂ ) and hydrogen (H ₂ ) are generated. CO + H ₂ O → CO ₂ + H ₂ (4)

Further, in the selective oxidation reaction process, aqueous
Carbon dioxide (CO ₂) And hydrogen (H₂)
Oxygen to carbon monoxide (CO) not converted to
(O₂) To give a heat of 283.5 kJ / mol
Generates energy and is shown in the following chemical reaction formula (5).
Sea urethane, carbon dioxide (CO₂) Is generated. CO + (1/2) O₂ → CO₂ ... (5)

A small amount of products other than hydrogen (mainly, carbon dioxide) generated by the above-described series of fuel reforming reactions are discharged to the discharge holes (not shown in the power generation module 10A; specific configuration examples will be described later). ) And is released to the atmosphere. The specific configuration of the fuel reforming section having such a function will be described in detail in a specific configuration example described later, together with other configurations.

As shown in FIG. 12, the fuel cell main body 210b is substantially similar to the fuel cell of the direct fuel supply system applied to the sub-power supply section 11 described above, for example, platinum, palladium, and platinum / ruthenium. A fuel electrode (cathode) 211 made of a carbon electrode to which catalyst fine particles such as platinum are adhered, an air electrode (anode) 212 made of a carbon electrode to which catalyst fine particles such as platinum are adhered, and a fuel electrode 211 and an air electrode 212 Loaded ion conductive film (exchange membrane) 2
13 are provided. Here, the fuel electrode 21
1 is supplied with hydrogen gas (H ₂ ) extracted by the fuel reforming unit 210 a from a power generation fuel FL whose supply amount is controlled by an output control unit 14 described later. Atmospheric oxygen gas (O ₂ ) is supplied.
As a result, power is generated by the electrochemical reaction described below, and power that is a predetermined driving power (voltage / current) is supplied to the load 214 (the load LD of the device DVC).

An example of the electrochemical reaction in the main power generation unit 12 according to this configuration example is as follows. Specifically, when hydrogen gas (H ₂ ) is supplied to the fuel electrode 211, the following chemical reaction formula (6) is obtained. As shown, electrons (e ⁻ ) are separated by a catalytic reaction at the fuel electrode 211 to generate hydrogen ions (protons; H ⁺ ), which pass through the ion conductive film 213 to the air electrode 212 side, and Electrons (e ⁻ ) are extracted by the carbon electrode constituting 211 and supplied to the load 214. ^{_{3H 2 → 6H + + 6e -}} ··· (6)

On the other hand, when air is supplied to the air electrode 212, as shown in the following chemical reaction formula (7),
(E) via the load 214 due to the catalytic reaction at
⁻ ) Reacts with hydrogen ions (H ⁺ ) passing through the ion conductive film 213 and oxygen gas (O ₂ ) in the air to form water (H ₂ ⁺ ).
₂ O) is produced. 6H ⁺ + (3/2) O ₂ + 6e ⁻ → 3H ₂ O (7)

Such a series of electrochemical reactions (chemical reaction formulas (6) and (7)) proceed under a relatively low temperature environment of approximately 60 to 80 ° C. The product is basically only water (H ₂ O). Here, water (H ₂ ) which is a by-product generated in the air electrode 212 is used.
O) is recovered and supplied to the above-described fuel reforming section 210a in a required amount, so that the fuel can be reused for the fuel reforming reaction and the water shift reaction of the power generation fuel FL, and for the fuel reforming reaction. The amount of water (H ₂ O) stored (enclosed) in the fuel pack 20A in advance can be significantly reduced, and further, a by-product collecting means provided in the fuel pack 20 for collecting by-products The amount of waste collected can be greatly reduced. Note that water (H ₂
The configuration of the by-product collecting means for collecting and reusing by-products such as O) will be described later together with the by-product collecting means in the above-described sub-power supply unit 11.

The electric power generated by the above-described electrochemical reaction and supplied to the load 214 is supplied to the main power generation unit 1.
It depends on the amount of hydrogen gas (H ₂ ) supplied to 2A (the fuel electrode 211 of the fuel cell body 210b). Therefore, by controlling the amount of the power generation fuel (substantially hydrogen gas) FL supplied to the main power generation unit 12 via the output control unit 14, the power supplied to the device DVC can be arbitrarily adjusted. For example, it can be set to be equivalent to one of general-purpose chemical batteries.

By applying the fuel cell of the fuel reforming system having such a configuration to the main power generation unit, the output control unit 1
By controlling the supply amount of the power generation fuel FL by using the control unit 4, any electric power can be generated more effectively. Therefore, based on the load drive information, the device DVC (load L
An appropriate power generation operation according to the driving state of D) can be realized. In addition, by applying a configuration as a fuel cell, electric power can be directly generated from the fuel FL for power generation by an electrochemical reaction, so that extremely high power generation efficiency can be realized, and the efficiency of the fuel FL for power generation can be improved. Power consumption and the size of the power generation module 10A including the main power generation unit 12 can be reduced.

Note that, as in the case of the sub power supply section (see the first configuration example) 11 described above, only the case where methanol is applied as the fuel FL for power generation is shown, but the present invention is not limited to this. At least one of a liquid fuel, a liquefied fuel, and a gaseous fuel containing hydrogen as a main component or composed of hydrogen may be used. Therefore, alcohol-based liquid fuels such as methanol, ethanol and butanol, liquefied fuels such as dimethyl ether, isobutane, natural gas and other hydrocarbons vaporized at normal temperature and pressure, and gaseous fuels such as hydrogen gas can be favorably used. Can be applied.

Here, when liquefied hydrogen or hydrogen gas is used as it is as the power generation fuel FL,
Applying a configuration in which the power generation fuel FL whose supply amount is controlled only by the output control unit 14 is directly supplied to the fuel cell main body 210b without requiring the fuel reforming unit 210a as shown in the present configuration example. Can be. The main power generation unit 12
Although only the fuel cell of the fuel reforming system is shown as a configuration of the present invention, the present invention is not limited to this, and the power generation efficiency is similar to that of the above-described sub power supply unit (see the first configuration example) 11. Is low, but by applying a fuel cell with a direct fuel supply system,
Electric power may be generated using the liquid fuel, liquefied fuel, gaseous fuel, or the like.

(Second Configuration Example of Main Power Generation Unit) FIG. 14 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a second configuration example of the main power generation unit applicable to the power supply module according to the present embodiment. In the second configuration example, as a specific example of the main power generation unit, the fuel pack 20A
For power generation FL supplied from the power control unit 14 via the output control unit 14
And has a configuration as a power generation device that drives a gas combustion turbine (internal combustion engine) with pressure energy accompanying a combustion reaction and converts the driving energy into electric power.

As shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B, the main power generation unit 12B according to this configuration example has a plurality of blades that are curved along a predetermined circumferential direction while being substantially radially formed. The movable blade 22 configured such that the arranged intake blades 222in and the exhaust blades 222out are connected to be freely rotatable.
2 and the plurality of blades are movable blades 222 (intake blades 222 in
Along the outer periphery of the exhaust blade 222out), the movable blade 222 is arranged in a substantially radial manner while being curved in the opposite direction to the movable blade 222,
In addition, the fixed blade 223 composed of the intake blade 223in and the exhaust blade 223out fixed relative to the movable blade 222, and the fuel for power generation (fuel gas) FL sucked by the movable blade 222 are burned at a predetermined timing. The combustion chamber 224, an ignition unit 225 for igniting the fuel gas sucked into the combustion chamber 224, and the rotation of the movable blade 222, which is directly connected to the center of rotation of the movable blade 222 based on the well-known principle of electromagnetic induction or piezoelectric conversion. A generator 228 that converts energy into electric power, an intake control unit 226 that controls the supply (suction) of vaporized fuel gas to a gas combustion turbine including the movable blades 222 and the fixed blades 223, and a post-combustion process in the gas combustion turbine. And an exhaust control unit 227 that controls the discharge of the fuel gas (exhaust gas).
Here, the configuration of the main power generation unit 12B including the gas combustion turbine, the intake control unit 226, and the exhaust control unit 227 is similar to that of the sub power supply unit 11 described above, for example, by applying a micromachine manufacturing technique to a silicon chip. 221 can be integrated and formed in a minute space on the order of millimeters. In FIG. 14A, in order to clarify the configuration of the gas combustion turbine, the intake blade 222
in and 223 in are shown for convenience.

In such a main power generation unit 12B, for example, as shown in FIG. 14B, the fuel gas sucked from the intake blades 222in and 223in side of the gas combustion turbine via the intake control unit 226 is supplied to the combustion chamber. At a predetermined timing in 224, the ignition unit 225 ignites and burns, and the exhaust blade 2
By discharging from the 22out and 223out sides (arrow P
5) The vortex of the fuel gas is generated along the curved direction of the movable blade 222 and the fixed blade 223, and the vortex automatically sucks and discharges the fuel gas, so that the movable blade 222 is continuous in a predetermined direction. , And drives the generator 228. Thereby, the fuel energy by the fuel gas is converted into electric power via the gas combustion turbine and the generator 228.

Therefore, the main power generation unit 12 according to this configuration example
In B, since power is generated using the combustion energy of the fuel gas, the power generation fuel (fuel gas) FL supplied from the fuel pack 20A has at least ignitability or combustibility. It is important to use, for example, alcohol-based liquid fuels such as methanol and ethanol butanol, dimethyl ether, isobutane, liquefied fuels composed of hydrocarbons vaporized at normal temperature and normal pressure such as natural gas, and gaseous fuels such as hydrogen gas. Can be applied to In the case where a configuration in which the fuel gas (exhaust gas) after combustion is directly discharged to the outside of the power supply system 1 is applied, if the exhaust gas contains a combustible or toxic component, the exhaust gas is discharged to the outside. It is needless to say that it is necessary to perform a treatment for making it flame-retardant or detoxifying before exhausting the exhaust gas or to provide a means for collecting the exhaust gas.

By applying the gas combustion turbine having such a configuration to the main power generation section, a simple control method for adjusting the supply amount of the fuel FL for power generation can be performed as in the first configuration example described above. , It is possible to realize an appropriate power generation operation according to the driving state of the device DVC. Further, by applying a configuration as a miniaturized gas combustion turbine, electric power is generated with relatively high energy conversion efficiency, and the power generation fuel FL is generated.
The size of the power generation module 10A including the main power generation unit 12 can be reduced while effectively utilizing the power generation.

(Third Configuration Example of Main Power Generation Unit) FIG. 15 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a third configuration example of the main power generation unit applicable to the power supply module according to the present embodiment. In the third configuration example, as a specific example of the main power generation unit, the fuel pack 20A
For power generation FL supplied from the power control unit 14 via the output control unit 14
And has a configuration as a power generator that drives a rotary engine (internal combustion engine) by pressure energy due to a combustion reaction and converts the driving energy into electric power.

As shown in FIG. 15, the main power generation section 12C according to the third configuration example has a substantially elliptical working space 23 having an outer periphery.
Housing 231 having 1a and working space 231
a known rotary engine having a rotor 232 having a substantially triangular cross section that rotates eccentrically along the inner wall of FIG. And a power generator (not shown). Here, the configuration of the main power generation unit 12C composed of a rotary engine can be formed by being integrated in a minute space by applying a micromachine manufacturing technique, similarly to the above-described respective configuration examples.

In the main power generation section 12C having such a configuration, by repeating the steps of intake, compression, combustion (explosion), and exhaust by rotating the rotor 232, the pressure energy generated by the combustion of the fuel gas is rotated. It is converted to energy and transmitted to the generator. That is, in the intake stroke, as shown in FIG. 15A, the fuel gas is sucked from the intake port 235a and the working space 231a
Is filled in a predetermined working chamber AS formed by the inner wall of the rotor and the rotor 232, and then, in the compression stroke, FIG.
As shown in FIG. 15B, after the fuel gas in the working chamber AS is compressed to a high pressure, in the combustion stroke, the fuel gas is ignited by the ignition unit 234 at a predetermined timing as shown in FIG. , Combustion (explosion), during the exhaust stroke,
As shown in FIG. 15D, the exhaust gas after combustion is exhausted from the working chamber AS via the exhaust port 235b. In this series of drive strokes, the explosion of the fuel gas in the combustion stroke and the pressure energy accompanying the combustion cause the rotor 232 to rotate.
Is maintained in the predetermined direction (arrow P6), and the transmission of rotational energy to the central shaft 233 is continued. As a result, the combustion energy of the fuel gas is converted into rotational energy of the central shaft 233, and is converted into electric power by a power generator (not shown) connected to the central shaft 233.

Here, as the configuration of the power generator, a well-known power generator using electromagnetic induction or piezoelectric conversion can be applied as in the second configuration example described above. In addition, this configuration example also has a configuration in which electric power is generated based on the combustion energy of the fuel gas, so that the power generation fuel (fuel gas) F
L needs to have at least ignitability or flammability. Further, in a case where a configuration in which the fuel gas (exhaust gas) after combustion is directly discharged to the outside of the power supply system 1, when the exhaust gas contains a combustible or toxic component, the exhaust gas is discharged to the outside. Needless to say, it is necessary to carry out a process for making it flame-retardant or detoxifying before exhausting the waste gas, or to provide a means for collecting the exhaust gas.

By applying the rotary engine having such a configuration to the main power generation section, arbitrary power can be supplied by a simple control method for adjusting the supply amount of the fuel FL for power generation, similarly to the above-described respective configuration examples. Since it can be generated, an appropriate power generation operation according to the driving state of the device can be realized. In addition, by applying the configuration as a miniaturized rotary engine, while generating power by a relatively simple configuration and operation with less vibration,
The size of the power generation module 10A including the main power generation unit 12 can be reduced.

(Fourth Configuration Example of Main Power Generation Unit) FIG. 16 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a fourth configuration example of the main power generation unit applicable to the power supply module according to the present embodiment. Here, the fourth
Only the basic structure (two-piston type, displacer type) of a well-known Stirling engine applied to the above configuration example is shown, and its operation will be briefly described. In the fourth configuration example, a Stirling engine (external combustion engine) is used as a specific example of the main power generation unit by using power generation fuel FL supplied from the fuel pack 20A via the output control unit 14 and using heat energy generated by a combustion reaction. And a configuration as a power generation device that converts the driving energy into electric power.

In the main power generation section 12D according to the fourth configuration example, the two-piston Stirling engine is the same as that shown in FIG.
As shown in (a), the cylinder 241a on the high temperature (expansion) side and the cylinder 242a on the low temperature (compression) side, which are configured so that the working gas can reciprocate with each other.
41a and 242a, which are connected to the crankshaft 243 so as to reciprocate with a phase difference of 90 ° with respect to each other.
b, heater 24 for heating high temperature side cylinder 241a
4. Cooler 24 that cools cylinder 242a on the low temperature side
5, a well-known Stirling engine having a flywheel 246 connected to the axis of the crankshaft 243, and a generator (not shown) directly connected to the crankshaft 243.

In the main power generation section 12D having such a configuration, the high-temperature side cylinder 241a is constantly heated by the heat energy accompanying the combustion of the fuel gas, and the low-temperature side cylinder 242a is heated by the outside air or the like. Is kept in a constantly cooled state by contacting or being exposed to the region of the above, and the reciprocating motion of the high-temperature side piston 241b and the low-temperature side piston 242b is performed by repeating the steps of equal volume heating, isothermal expansion, equal volume cooling, and isothermal compression. The generated kinetic energy is converted into rotational energy of the crankshaft 243 and transmitted to the generator.

That is, in the equal volume heating process, when the thermal expansion of the working gas starts and the high temperature side piston 241b starts to descend, the small volume low temperature side cylinder 242a, which is a space continuous with the high temperature side cylinder 241a, Then, the low-temperature side piston 242b rises due to the pressure reduction caused by the sudden lowering of the high-temperature side piston 241b, and the working gas cooled in the low-temperature side cylinder 242a flows into the high-temperature side cylinder 241a. Next, in the isothermal expansion stroke, the high temperature side cylinder 241a
The cooled working gas that has flowed therein sufficiently expands the heat to increase the pressure in the space inside the high-temperature side cylinder 241a and the low-temperature side cylinder 242a, and both the high-temperature side piston 241b and the low-temperature side piston 242b fall. Next, in the equal volume cooling process, the space in the low temperature side cylinder 242a is increased by the lowering of the low temperature side piston 242b, and accordingly, the space in the high temperature side cylinder 241a is contracted, and the high temperature side piston 241b is raised, and the high temperature side piston 241b is raised. Cylinder 241a
Of working gas flows into the low temperature side cylinder 242a and is cooled. In the isothermal compression stroke, the cooled working gas that fills the space in the low-temperature side cylinder 242a contracts, the continuous space in the low-temperature side cylinder 242a and the space in the high-temperature side cylinder 241a are both depressurized, and the high-temperature side piston 241b and Both of the low temperature side pistons 242b rise. In this series of driving strokes, the reciprocating motion of the piston accompanying heating and cooling of the fuel gas causes the crankshaft 243 to rotate.
In the predetermined direction (arrow P7) is maintained. As a result, the pressure energy of the working gas is converted into rotational energy of the crankshaft 243, and is converted into electric power by a generator (not shown) connected to the crankshaft 243.

On the other hand, the main power generation section 12D according to the fourth configuration example
In the displacer type Stirling engine,
As shown in FIG. 16 (b), a cylinder 241c is generally partitioned by a displacer piston 241d and has a high-temperature space and a low-temperature space in which a working gas can reciprocate. Displacer piston 241d, cylinder 241
Power piston 2 reciprocating according to pressure change in c
42d, a crankshaft 243 connected so that the displacer piston 241d and the power piston 242d have a phase difference of 90 ° from each other, a heater 244 for heating one end side (high-temperature space side) of the cylinder 241c, and a cylinder 2
Cooler 24 for cooling the other end side (low temperature space side) of 41c
5, a well-known Stirling engine having a flywheel 246 connected to the axis of the crankshaft 243, and a generator (not shown) directly connected to the crankshaft 243.

In the main power generation section 12D having such a configuration, the high-temperature space side of the cylinder 241c is constantly heated by the heat energy accompanying the combustion of the fuel gas, and the low-temperature space side is always kept in a cooled state. By repeating the steps of heating, isothermal expansion, isovolume cooling, and isothermal compression, the displacer piston 241d and the power piston 242 are repeated.
The kinetic energy that causes d to reciprocate with a predetermined phase difference,
It is converted into rotational energy of the crankshaft 243 and transmitted to the generator.

That is, in the equal-volume heating process, when the displacer piston 241d starts to rise in thermal expansion of the working gas by the heater 244 and starts to rise, the working gas in the low-temperature space flows into the high-temperature space and is heated. . Next, in the isothermal expansion stroke, the power piston 242d rises because the working gas in the increased high-temperature space side thermally expands to increase the pressure. Next, in the equal volume cooling process, when the displacer piston 241d descends due to the flow of the working gas thermally expanded by the heater 244 to the low temperature space side, the working gas that has been thermally expanded and flows in is cooled by the cooler 245.
Cooled by. And in the isothermal compression stroke,
The working gas cooled in the low-temperature space side cylinder 241c contracts, depressurizing the low-temperature space side cylinder 241c, and the power piston 242d descends. In this series of drive strokes, the reciprocating motion of the piston accompanying the heating and cooling of the working gas causes the crankshaft 243 to move in a predetermined direction (arrow P7).
The rotation to is maintained. As a result, the pressure energy of the working gas is converted into rotational energy of the crankshaft 243, and is converted into electric power by a generator (not shown) connected to the crankshaft 243.

Here, the configuration of the power generator is the second,
As in the third configuration example, a known generator using electromagnetic induction or piezoelectric conversion can be applied. Further, the configuration of the main power generation unit 12D including the Stirling engine shown in FIG. 16 is also formed by being integrated in a minute space, similarly to the above-described respective configuration examples. Furthermore, since this configuration example also has a configuration in which electric power is generated based on thermal energy accompanying combustion of the fuel gas, the power generation fuel (fuel gas) has at least ignitability or combustibility. Need to be.

By applying the Stirling engine having such a configuration to the main power generation section, an arbitrary control method for adjusting the supply amount of the fuel FL for power generation can be achieved by a simple control method as in the third configuration example described above. Since power can be generated, an appropriate power generation operation according to the driving state of the device DVC (load LD) can be realized. Further, by applying the configuration as a miniaturized Stirling engine, it is possible to reduce the size of the power generation module 10A including the main power generation unit 12 while generating power with a relatively simple configuration and operation with less vibration. Can be.

In the above-described second to fourth configuration examples, the gas combustion turbine, the rotary, and the like are used as power generating devices that convert a change in gas pressure based on the combustion reaction of the power generation fuel FL into electric power through rotational energy. Although an engine and a Stirling engine are shown, the present invention is not limited to this, and various internal combustion engines or external combustion engines such as a pulse combustion engine and a well-known principle of electromagnetic induction or piezoelectric conversion are used. It goes without saying that a combination with the used generator can be applied.

(Fifth Configuration Example of Main Power Generation Unit) FIG. 17 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a fifth configuration example of the main power generation unit applicable to the power supply module according to the present embodiment. In the fifth configuration example, as a specific example of the main power generation unit, the fuel pack 20A
For power generation FL supplied from the power control unit 14 via the output control unit 14
And has a configuration as a power generation device that generates electric power by thermoelectric conversion power generation using a temperature difference generated by generating thermal energy based on a combustion reaction (oxidation reaction).

As shown in FIG. 17A, the main power generation section 12E according to the fifth configuration example is a combustion heater 251 for generating a thermal energy by causing a combustion reaction (oxidation reaction) of the fuel FL for power generation. And a constant temperature section 25 for maintaining a substantially constant temperature.
2 and a combustion heater 251 at a first temperature end, a constant temperature section 252.
As a second temperature end, and a thermoelectric conversion element 253 connected between the first and second temperature ends. Here, the thermoelectric conversion element 253 has the same configuration as that shown in FIG. Further, the combustion heater 251 is supplied with the power generation fuel FL to continuously maintain the combustion reaction to maintain a high temperature, while the constant temperature section 252 contacts other regions inside and outside the power supply system 1. Or, it is configured to maintain a substantially constant temperature (for example, normal temperature or low temperature) by being exposed. In addition, the configuration of the main power generation unit 12E including the temperature difference power generator illustrated in FIG.

In the main power generation section 12E having such a configuration, as shown in FIG.
Is supplied to the combustion heater 251 via the output control unit 14, the combustion (oxidation) reaction proceeds in accordance with the supply amount of the power generation fuel, and heat is generated. The temperature of 251 increases. On the other hand, since the temperature of the constant temperature section 252 is set to be substantially constant,
A temperature difference occurs between the combustion heater 251 and the constant temperature section 252. Then, based on the temperature difference, a predetermined electromotive force is generated by the Seebeck effect in the thermoelectric conversion element 253 to generate power.

By applying the temperature difference power generator having such a configuration to the main power generation section, an arbitrary control method for adjusting the supply amount of the fuel FL for power generation can be achieved by a simple control method similar to the above-described respective configuration examples. Since power can be generated, an appropriate power generation operation according to the driving state of the device DVC (load LD) can be realized. Further, by applying a configuration as a miniaturized temperature difference power generator, it is possible to reduce the size of the power generation module 10A including the main power generation unit 12 while generating power by a relatively simple configuration and vibration-free operation. Can be planned. In this configuration example, the temperature difference generator that generates electric power by the Seebeck effect based on the temperature difference between the combustion heater 251 and the constant temperature section 252 has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Instead, a configuration may be employed in which power is generated based on the thermoelectron emission phenomenon.

(Sixth Configuration Example of Main Power Generation Unit) FIG. 18 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a sixth configuration example of the main power generation unit applicable to the power supply module according to the present embodiment. In the sixth configuration example, as a specific example of the main power generation unit, the fuel pack 20A
For power generation FL supplied from the power control unit 14 via the output control unit 14
And has a configuration as a power generation device that generates electric power (electromotive force) based on the principle of magnetohydrodynamics.

As shown in FIG. 18 (a), the main power generation section 12F according to the sixth configuration example generally has a side wall of a flow path through which a power generation fuel FL made of a conductive fluid passes at a predetermined flux. A pair of electrodes ELa and ELb opposed to each other, and Nd- that generates a magnetic field of a predetermined strength in a direction perpendicular to both the facing direction of the electrodes ELa and ELb and the flow direction of the fuel FL for power generation. An MHD (Magneto-Hy) including a magnetic field generating means MG made of a Fe-B neodymium permanent magnet and output terminals Oc and Od individually connected to the electrodes ELa and ELb.
dro-Dynamics (magnetohydrodynamic) has a generator configuration. Here, the power generation fuel FL may be plasma, liquid metal,
It is a conductive fluid (working fluid) such as a liquid or a gas containing a conductive substance, and has a flow path formed so as to flow in a direction (arrow P8) parallel to the electrodes ELa and ELb.
Note that the main power generation unit 12F according to this configuration example is also formed by being integrated in a minute space by applying the micromachine manufacturing technology, similarly to the above-described configuration examples.

In the main power generation section 12F having such a configuration, as shown in FIG.
Generates a magnetic field B perpendicular to the flow direction of the fuel for power generation, and moves the fuel for generation (conductive fluid) FL with the flux u in the flow direction, based on Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction. When the power generation fuel FL crosses the magnetic field, an electromotive force u × B is induced, the enthalpy of the power generation fuel FL is converted into electric power, and a current is supplied to a load (not shown) connected between the output terminals Oc and Od. Flows. This allows
Thermal energy of the power generation fuel FL is directly converted to electric power.

When the configuration in which the fuel (electrically conductive fluid) FL for power generation after passing through the flow path of the MHD power generator is directly discharged to the outside of the power supply system 1 is applied, the fuel FL for power generation has a flammable property. Or, when a toxic component is contained, it is necessary to perform a process for making the power generation fuel FL flame-retardant or detoxifying before discharging it to the outside, or to provide a means for collecting the power generation fuel FL. Not even.

By applying the MHD generator having such a configuration to the main power generation section, it is possible to generate arbitrary power by a simple control method for adjusting the speed of the power generation fuel FL moving in the flow path. Therefore, an appropriate power generation operation according to the driving state of the device DVC can be realized. In addition, by applying a configuration as a miniaturized MHD power generator, it is possible to reduce the size of the power generation module 10A including the main power generation unit 12 while generating power with an extremely simple configuration that does not require a driving component. it can.

[0124] Each of the above configuration examples is merely an example of the main power generation unit 12 applied to the power generation module 10A, and does not limit the configuration of the power supply system according to the present invention. In short, the main power generation unit 12 applied to the present invention is configured such that the liquid fuel, the liquefied fuel, or the gaseous fuel sealed in the fuel pack 20A is supplied directly or indirectly to the main power generation unit 12. Reaction or heat generation, a temperature difference associated with an endothermic reaction, pressure energy or heat energy conversion action, as long as it can generate electric power based on electromagnetic induction or the like, may have another configuration, For example, a combination of an external force generating means based on a thermoacoustic effect and a generator based on electromagnetic induction or piezoelectric conversion can be suitably applied.

In the main power generation section 12 to which the second to fifth configuration examples are applied among the above-described configuration examples, the fuel FL for power generation supplied to the main power generation section 12 is subjected to a combustion reaction or the like to perform heat generation. For the ignition operation when extracting energy, FIG.
As shown in (1), the power supplied from the sub power generation unit 11 is used as the starting power.

<Operation Control Unit 13> The operation control unit 13 applied to the power generation module according to the present embodiment operates with the operation power supplied from the sub power generation unit 11 described above, as shown in FIG. Various kinds of information inside and outside the power supply system 1 according to the embodiment, that is, information on the drive state of the device DVC (load LD) connected to the power supply system 1 (load drive information) and the power generation fuel FL enclosed in the fuel pack 20A An operation control signal is generated and output based on information about the operation state of the power supply system 1 such as the remaining amount of the power supply system, and the operation state of the main power generation unit 12 described later is controlled. Here, the load drive information fluctuates according to specific signal information output when the controller CNT drives and controls the load LD in the device DVC, and the drive state of the load LD (eg, startup / load fluctuation). This refers to a change in the voltage of the load driving power.

That is, the operation control unit 13, specifically, when the main power generation unit 12 is not operating, for example, when the device DVC (load LD) is activated, the load drive output from the controller CNT is output. When the information is detected, the output control unit 14
And outputs an operation control signal for activating the main power generation unit 12 (startup control). Further, in a state where the main power generation unit 12 is operating, for example, with a change in the drive state of the device DVC (load LD), When the load drive information related to the voltage change of the load drive power is detected, the load drive power supplied from the main power generation unit 12 to the load LD is output to the output control unit 14. Power generation amount (power generation amount) in the main power generation unit 12 so as to have an appropriate value corresponding to
Output an operation control signal for adjusting (feedback control).

On the other hand, while the main power generation unit 12 is operating, the operation control unit 13 performs, for example, the device DVC (load L) in spite of executing the feedback control.
In the case where load drive information related to a state where the load drive power supplied to D) becomes excessive is continuously detected for a predetermined period of time, or when load drive information regarding load stop from the device DVC is detected, An operation control signal for stopping the operations of the output control unit 14 and the main power generation unit 12 is output to the activation control unit 15 (stop control).

The external shape of the power supply system 1 is as follows.
As will be described later, in a case where a configuration in which a device DVC (load LD) is electrically connected only by the terminal electrodes of the positive electrode and the negative electrode as in a general-purpose chemical battery is applied, via the positive electrode and the negative electrode, The drive state of the load LD can be detected by supplying the controller D or the power serving as the load drive power to the device DVC, and constantly monitoring the fluctuation by the operation control unit 13.

<Output Control Unit 14> FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of another example of an embodiment of the power generation module applied to the power supply system according to the present invention. Output control unit 14 applied to the power generation module according to the present embodiment
As shown in FIG. 3, based on the operation control signal output from the operation control unit 13 directly or via the start control unit 15, power is supplied from the above-described auxiliary power generation unit 11 (starting power). It operates and controls the operation state (start-up operation, steady operation, stop operation, amount of generated power (power generation amount)) in the main power generation unit 12.

Specifically, for example, a flow control means for adjusting the flow rate and discharge rate of the fuel for power generation is provided. The flow control means is controlled based on the operation control signal so that the power generation fuel (liquid fuel, liquefied fuel or gaseous fuel) required to generate and output the power is supplied.

In this embodiment, the main power generation unit 12
When the configuration of the fuel cell of the fuel reforming system shown in the first configuration example (see FIG. 12) described above is applied, as shown in FIG. Based on the operation control signal from the control unit 13, the fuel for power generation (the fuel cell main body 2) supplied to the main power generation unit 12 </ b> A
A fuel control unit 14a for controlling the amount of hydrogen gas supplied to the fuel cell 10b; an air control unit 14b for controlling the amount of air (oxygen gas supplied to the fuel cell body 210b) supplied to the main power generation unit 12A; May be provided.

In this case, based on the operation control signal output from the operation control unit 13, the fuel control unit 14a supplies the fuel cell body 210b with an amount of hydrogen gas (H ₂ ) Is taken from the fuel pack 20A and the fuel reforming section 21
0a, and the air control unit 14b
Takes a required amount of oxygen gas (O ₂ ) according to the electrochemical reaction using hydrogen gas (see chemical reaction formulas (6) and (7)) from the atmosphere to obtain a fuel cell main body 210.
Control to supply the air electrode 212 of b is performed. The main power generation unit 1 is controlled by the fuel control unit 14a and the air control unit 14b.
By adjusting the supply amounts of hydrogen gas (H ₂ ) and oxygen gas (O ₂ ) to the main power generation unit 12 (the fuel cell body 2
The progress of the electrochemical reaction in 10b) is controlled,
The amount of power (the amount of power generation) serving as load driving power is controlled.

Here, the air control section 14b is connected to the main power generation section 1
2 can supply air corresponding to the maximum consumption amount of oxygen per unit time in the main power generation unit 12 without controlling the amount of oxygen gas supplied to the air electrode 212 of the main power generation unit 12. It may be set so that it is always supplied at the time of operation 12. That is, in the configuration of the power generation module 10A shown in FIG.
Controls the progress of the electrochemical reaction only by the fuel control unit 14a, provides a vent hole (slit) as described later in place of the air control unit 14b, and The air (oxygen) in the above amount may be configured to be constantly supplied through the ventilation hole.

<Start-up control unit 15> The start-up control unit 15 applied to the power generation module according to the present embodiment is operated by the electric power supplied from the sub power generation unit 11 as shown in FIG. Based on the operation control signal output from the control unit 13, at least power (starting power) is supplied to the output control unit 14 (including the main power generation unit 12 depending on the configuration), and the main power generation unit 12 is controlled. Start-up control for shifting from a standby state to an operation state in which power can be generated is performed.

More specifically, in the configuration shown in FIG. 19, the start control unit 15 sends the main power from the operation control unit 13 while the main power generation unit 12A (the fuel cell main body 210b) is not operating. Upon receiving an operation control signal for activating the unit 12A, the starting power output from the sub power supply unit 11 is supplied to the fuel control unit 14a, the air control unit 14b, and the main power generation unit 12A (fuel reforming unit 210a). The fuel cell body 210b is activated by supplying hydrogen gas (H ₂ ) to the fuel electrode 211 of the fuel cell body 210b and oxygen gas (O ₂ ) to the air electrode 212. Then, the operation state is shifted to an operation state (steady state) in which predetermined power is generated.

[0137] The start control unit 15 is connected to the main power generation unit 12A.
Is operating, the operation control unit 13 sends the main power generation unit 1
When the operation control signal for stopping the fuel cell 2A (the fuel cell main body 210b) is received, at least the fuel control unit 14a
And the air controller 14b to control the fuel cell main body 210
By stopping the supply of the hydrogen gas (H ₂ ) and the oxygen gas (O ₂ ) to b, the generation (power generation) of the electric power in the fuel cell main body 210b is stopped, and the sub power generation unit 11 and
The power (operation power, controller power) from the sub power generation unit 11 is shifted to a standby state in which only the operation control unit 13 and the controller CNT of the device DVC are operating.

Here, a fuel cell of a fuel reforming system is applied as the main power generation unit 12, and the output control unit 14 (the fuel control unit 14 a and the air control unit 14
b) and controlling the supply of the starting power to the main power generation unit 12A to control the supply and cutoff of the fuel and air for power generation to the main power generation unit 12A, thereby controlling the operation state of the main power generation unit 12A (start-up operation, Although the case where the stop operation is controlled has been described, even when the above-described other configuration example (for example, a power generation device having an internal combustion engine, an external combustion engine, or the like) is applied to the main power generation unit 12, the configuration is substantially the same. Controls the operation state of the main power generation unit 12. When a fuel cell of a direct fuel supply system is used as the main power generation unit 12, the main power generation unit 12 may be used.
In this method, the start-up control unit 15 controls the supply of the start-up electric power only to the output control unit 14 (fuel control unit 14a) without controlling the start-up electric power and merely controlling the supply and cutoff of the fuel for power generation. It may be.

Further, in the configuration shown in FIG. 3, the activation control unit 15 and the output control unit 14 (in the configuration shown in FIG. 19, the fuel control unit 14a) receive the electric power from the sub power generation unit 11. It is supplied as power or starting power,
When the power consumed by the output control unit 14 or the like during the steady operation of the main power generation unit 12 is not sufficient only by the power supplied from the sub power generation unit 11, in addition to the power from the sub power generation unit 11, Can be maintained by outputting a part of the electric power generated in (1) to the output control unit 14 and the like (see the dotted arrow in FIGS. 3 and 19).

At this time, as a power supply system, the output control unit 14 controls the power generation corresponding to the additional power consumed by the output control unit 14 so that the power supplied as drive power to the device is not impaired. Control is performed such that the total amount of fuel for power generation corresponding to the fuel and the power supplied to the device is supplied to the main power generation unit 12. In the configuration shown in FIG. 18, the fuel control unit 14a supplies the total amount of the power generation fuel to the fuel electrode 211 of the fuel cell main body 210b via the fuel reforming unit 210a, and the air control unit 14a. By 14b, control is performed so that air that satisfies the amount of oxygen necessary to generate (generate) sufficient electric power in the fuel cell main body 210b is supplied to the air electrode 212 of the fuel cell main body 210b.

(B) Fuel Pack The fuel pack 20 applied to the power supply system according to the present invention
A is, for example, a power generation fuel FL composed of a liquid fuel, a liquefied fuel, or a gaseous fuel containing hydrogen in its composition component.
Is a highly sealed fuel storage container that is filled and sealed, and has a configuration detachably connected to the power generation module 10A via the I / F unit 30A as shown in FIG. are doing. Here, the power generation fuel FL sealed in the fuel pack 20A is taken into the power generation module 10A via a fuel delivery path provided in the I / F unit 30A, which will be described later.
The amount of power generation fuel F required to generate the predetermined power that is the load driving power according to the driving state (load state)
L is supplied to the main power generation unit 12 as needed.

As described above, a part of the power generation fuel FL sealed in the fuel pack 20A is used as the sub power generation unit 11, and an electrochemical reaction, a catalytic combustion reaction, a dynamic energy conversion action, or the like is used. When the configuration for generating electric power is applied, at least the minimum supply amount of the fuel for power generation necessary to generate electric power to be used as operation electric power of the controller D of the device DVC and the operation control unit 13 and the like is applied. F
L is constantly supplied to the sub power generation unit 11 via the I / F unit 30A.

Here, the power supply system 1 according to the present embodiment
, The power generation module 10A and the fuel pack 20A
Has a detachable configuration, so that the fuel pack 20A
Is configured to supply the fuel FL for power generation to the power generation module 10A only when the power generation module 10A is coupled to the power generation module 10A. In other words, when the fuel pack 20A is not connected to the power generation module 10A, the power generation fuel FL sealed therein does not leak out of the fuel pack 20A. By providing a fuel leakage prevention means including a control valve or the like that controls the fuel delivery path in such a direction that the fuel delivery path is always closed by physical pressure or the like, and coupled to the power generation module 10A via the I / F unit 30A, For example, the control valve is closed when the means (leakage prevention canceling means) provided in the I / F unit 30A (or the power generation module 10A) for canceling the leakage prevention function of the fuel leakage prevention means contacts or presses. Is released, and the power generation fuel FL sealed in the fuel pack 20A is supplied to the power generation module 10A via the I / F unit 30A.

In the fuel pack 20A having such a configuration, if the fuel pack 20A is separated from the power generation module 10A before the power generation fuel FL sealed in the fuel pack 20A is exhausted, the fuel When the leakage prevention function of the leakage prevention means is operated again (for example, the control valve is closed again due to the non-contact state of the leakage prevention release means), the leakage of the power generation fuel FL is prevented. Thus, the fuel pack 20A can be carried alone.

Further, the fuel pack 20A having such a configuration may be configured so that the leakage prevention function of the fuel leakage prevention means can be forcibly released while being separated from the power generation module 10A. . According to this, for example, when the fuel FL for power generation sealed in the fuel pack 20A runs out or runs out, the fuel pack 20A is separated from the power generation module 10A,
The leakage prevention function of the fuel leakage prevention means is temporarily released, and the fuel FL for power generation is repeatedly injected into the fuel pack 20A,
By filling, the fuel pack 20A itself can be reused (recycled), so that the amount of waste generated can be reduced and the burden on the environment can be reduced.

The structure of the fuel pack 20A is as follows.
In addition to the configuration provided with the fuel leakage prevention means including a control valve having a reversible function as described above, once the leakage prevention function is released, the delivery of the fuel for power generation starts unilaterally and continues irreversibly. It is also possible to apply a device provided with a fuel leakage prevention means including a sealed portion having a function. In this case, the fuel pack 20A is connected to the power generation module 1
When the fuel pack 20A is once connected to the fuel pack 20A, it can be satisfactorily applied to a usage form in which the fuel pack 20A is separated after the fuel for power generation FL sealed in the fuel pack 20A is used up. Even in such a configuration, before the fuel pack 20A is coupled to the power generation module 10A, leakage of the power generation fuel FL can be prevented, and a highly safe power supply system can be realized.

Here, the fuel pack 20A has a function as a fuel storage container as described above, and originally exists in the natural world under a specific environmental condition and is a substance constituting nature. It is made of a material that can be converted into a substance that does not cause environmental pollution or the like. That is,
For example, even when the fuel pack 20A is dumped or landfilled in the natural world, it is harmless to the natural world due to the action of microorganisms and enzymes in the soil, the irradiation of sunlight, rainwater, the atmosphere, and the like. Originally exists in the natural world, and
Highly degrading properties such as biodegradability, photodegradability, hydrolyzability, oxidative degradability, etc. It can be composed of a molecular material (plastic) or the like.

The fuel pack 20A can be treated with an organic chlorine compound (dioxins; polychlorinated dibenzoparadioxin, polychlorinated dibenzofuran) even if it is subjected to artificial heating, incineration, chemical or chemical treatment, or the like. It may be made of a material that does not generate harmful substances such as hydrogen chloride gas and heavy metals or environmental pollutants or whose generation is suppressed. Here, the fuel pack 20A
(For example, the polymer material) is not likely to be decomposed at least in a short period of time by contact with the encapsulated power generation fuel FL. Needless to say, the fuel pack 20A made of the polymer material has sufficient strength against external physical stress, as a matter of course. Needless to say, it has the following.

Hereinafter, representative examples of constituent materials applicable to the fuel pack according to the present embodiment will be described. As biodegradable plastics, specifically, polymer materials containing organic compounds of chemically synthesized systems synthesized from petroleum-based raw materials
(Polylactic acid, aliphatic polyester, copolymerized polyester)
In addition, a bio-polyester of a microorganism-producing system, a polymer material of a natural product utilizing starch, cellulose, chitin, chitosan or the like extracted from a plant-based material such as corn or sugarcane can be favorably applied. A typical decomposition reaction of such biodegradable plastic is hydrolysis by microorganisms and enzymes in soil → enzymatic decomposition →
Water and carbon dioxide are released by a series of activities such as absorption into the body.

As the photodegradable plastic, specifically, a functional group or the like which causes the decomposition of a polymer (photochemical reaction) by taking in light energy is introduced into an ethylene-carbon monoxide copolymer in which a molecular bonding chain is introduced. Photosensitive functional group-introduced polymer materials such as coalescables and vinyl ketone-vinyl monomer copolymers, and reagents that generate photochemical reactions, such as functional ketones added with aromatic ketones (benzophenone, acetophenone, etc.) A polymer material or the like can be applied favorably. The decomposition reaction in such a photodegradable plastic is such that long exposure to sunlight (especially ultraviolet rays) causes a photochemical reaction or photooxidation reaction to cause long molecules constituting the plastic to be cut off, resulting in lower molecular weight. It changes into a structural substance.

Further, even when the incineration process is performed,
Materials that can suppress the generation of harmful substances such as organic chlorine compounds (dioxins) and hydrogen chloride gas include:
Specifically, halogens and halogen compounds, particularly chlorine-free polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (P
E) or a polymer material such as polystyrene (PS) can be applied favorably. Such a decomposition reaction in a polymer material containing no chlorine is finally decomposed into carbon dioxide and water by artificial incineration.

The representative examples of the constituent materials described above correspond to the case where the influence on the natural environment is most concerned, such as when the fuel pack is dumped or landfilled in the natural world or when it is incinerated as general incineration garbage. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and materials having excellent recyclability (reduction in the amount of energy used during recycling), for example, metals such as aluminum It may be. Such materials can be used for fuel packs in addition to use by general consumers, for example, in relatively closed distribution environments such as companies, offices, laboratories, and school educational facilities. The fuel pack is collected in approximately 10
It can be applied well when 0% is possible. Here, as described above, the recovery rate due to the recycling of the chemical battery is only about 20%, and in view of the current situation where the remaining about 80% is dumped or landfilled in nature, the fuel pack 20A It is desirable to apply a material having a degrading property, in particular, a biodegradable plastic.

The material constituting the fuel pack 20A has the above-mentioned characteristic of reducing the burden on the environment (hereinafter referred to as “environmental adaptability” for convenience) and the fuel storage container. Needless to say, it is necessary to have basic functions. That is, in the case where the power supply system according to the present embodiment is used as a portable or portable power supply, in addition to the above-described environmental adaptability, it has a low weight and high rigidity and an affinity with the fuel for power generation (resistance to fuel). It is necessary to have various characteristics such as high corrosiveness and low fuel alteration) and fuel tightness.
According to this, as will be described later, the present invention can be suitably applied to a case where a high pressure is applied to a gaseous power generation fuel to liquefy it and seal it. In addition, even if the material is inferior in affinity with the fuel for power generation, it can be applied favorably by coating the inner wall of the fuel pack with a material having the above-mentioned affinity.

Further, if the fuel pack 20A is made of a transparent or translucent material or material, the remaining amount of the fuel for power generation (liquid fuel) can be visually recognized. The remaining time that the system can be used can be ascertained, or preparation for replenishment of fuel for power generation or purchase of a new fuel pack can be encouraged, and the convenience of the power supply system according to the present invention can be improved.

As the power generation fuel FL used in the power supply system 1 according to this embodiment, at least the fuel pack 20A in which the power generation fuel FL is sealed is dumped or landfilled in the natural world. Even if it leaks into the air, soil, or water, it does not become a pollutant to the natural environment.
In the main power generation unit 12 of 0 A, power can be generated with high energy conversion efficiency, and a stable liquid state or gas state is maintained under predetermined sealing conditions (pressure, temperature, etc.). A fuel substance that is vaporized under normal pressure and supplied to the power generation module 10A in a gaseous state, and furthermore, the production (generation) of the power generation fuel FL and the supply to the market are relatively easy and excellent in economic efficiency; It is preferable to have features such as high safety in handling, specifically, the above-described alcohol-based liquid fuel such as methanol, ethanol, and butanol, and normal temperature,
A liquefied fuel composed of a hydrocarbon such as dimethyl ether, isobutane, or natural gas which is a gas under normal pressure, or a gaseous fuel such as hydrogen gas can be favorably applied. It should be noted that, even if the fuel substance is somewhat inferior in safety or the like, for example, as described later, the configuration of a fuel stabilizing unit or the like for stabilizing the state of enclosing the fuel FL for power generation in the fuel pack 20 will be described. By providing the fuel cell, the safety of the power supply system can be ensured, and the fuel cell can be favorably applied as a fuel for power generation.

Therefore, according to the fuel pack 20A and the power generation fuel FL having such a configuration, all or a part of the power supply system 1 (the fuel pack 20) according to the present embodiment is provided.
A or fuel FL for power generation), if it is dumped in the natural world, or if it is artificially landfilled, incinerated, treated with chemicals, etc., the air, soil, and water quality are affected by the natural environment. Pollution, production of environmental hormones, and the like can be significantly suppressed, which can contribute to prevention of environmental destruction, suppression of deterioration of the aesthetic appearance of the natural environment, and prevention of adverse effects on the human body.

The fuel F for power generation is supplied to the fuel pack 20A.
Since replenishment of L, replacement and reuse (recycling) of the fuel pack 20A can be performed, it is possible to contribute to the construction of a recycling system capable of greatly reducing the amount of disposal of the fuel pack 20A and the power generation module 10A. .
In this case, a new fuel pack 20A is replaced and attached to the single power generation module 10A, and the device DV
Since the power supply system can be used by being attached to C, it is possible to provide a power supply system in a simple usage form almost in the same manner as a general-purpose chemical battery.

The sub power supply unit 1 of the power generation module 10A
1 and the generation of electric power by the main power generation unit 12 when by-products are generated in addition to the electric power, the by-products adversely affect the surrounding environment, and the device DVC is not functionally operable. In such a case, there is a possibility that the means for holding the by-product recovered by the by-product recovery means described later is provided inside the fuel pack 20A. In this case, when the fuel pack 20A is detached from the power generation module 10A, for example, the by-product once collected and held in the fuel pack 20A (collection and holding means) does not leak to the outside of the fuel pack 20A, for example. A configuration including an absorbing polymer capable of absorbing, adsorbing, fixing, and fixing a product, a control valve that closes by a physical pressure such as a spring, or the like can be applied. The configuration of the by-product collection and holding unit will be described later together with the by-product collection unit.

(C) I / F section I / F section 30A applied to the power supply system according to the present invention
As shown in FIG. 2, at least the power generation module 10A and the fuel pack 20A are physically attached / detached (coupled / removed), and the power generation fuel FL sealed in the fuel pack 20A is supplied via a fuel delivery path. And a function of supplying the power to the power generation module 10A in a predetermined state. Here, as described above, the I / F unit 30A is connected to the fuel pack 2.
0A or the power generation module 10A. The fuel pack 20A and the power generation module 10A may be provided integrally with each other or divided into both.
May be provided separately and independently. In addition, the I / F unit 30A may include a leakage prevention release unit that releases the leakage prevention function of the fuel leakage prevention unit provided in the fuel pack 20A, in addition to the fuel delivery path. As described later, the power generation module 10
In the case where a configuration including a by-product recovery means for recovering by-products generated in the sub-power supply unit 11 and the main power generation unit 12 of FIG.
It may be provided with a by-product recovery path for sending it into A.

The I / F unit 30A applies a predetermined condition (temperature, pressure, etc.) to the fuel pack 20A via the fuel delivery path only when the power generation module 10A and the fuel pack 20A are connected to each other. The power generation module 10A (the sub-power supply unit 1) uses the power generation fuel FL sealed under
1 and the main power generation unit 12). Specifically, I / F
By coupling the fuel pack 20A to the power generation module 10A via the portion 30A, the leakage prevention function of the fuel leakage prevention means provided on the fuel pack 20A is released by the leakage prevention release means, and the fuel is supplied via the fuel delivery path. Then, the power generation module 10A can be supplied with the power generation fuel FL.

Therefore, only when the power generation module 10A and the fuel pack 20A are connected via the I / F unit 30A, the fuel pack 20A is disconnected from the power generation module 10A.
Is supplied with fuel FL for power generation, so that the fuel pack 20A
Can be prevented from leaking even if it is carried alone, and a highly safe power supply system can be realized.

As described above, the I / F unit 30A
May be provided integrally with the fuel pack 20A. In this case, the I / F unit 30A has a biodegradable property showing degradability at least under a natural environment, similarly to the fuel pack 20A described above. It is desirable to be made of a polymer material such as a conductive plastic. This allows I
Even if the fuel pack 20A integrally provided with the / F unit 30A is dumped or landfilled in the natural world, the air, soil, and water quality pollute the natural environment, the aesthetic appearance deteriorates, or the environment for the human body. Adverse effects due to hormone production and the like can be suppressed.

<Overall Operation> Next, the overall operation of the power supply system having the above-described configuration will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a schematic operation of the power supply system. Here, a description will be given with reference to the configuration of the power supply system (FIG. 3) as appropriate.

The power supply system 1 having the configuration described above
As shown in FIG. 20, roughly, the power generation fuel FL sealed in the fuel pack 20A is supplied to the power generation module 10A, and the sub power supply unit 11 constantly and continuously generates the power serving as the operation power and the controller power. Operation (steps S101 and S102) for outputting
Based on the driving of the load LD in the VC, the fuel pack 2
The starting operation (steps S103 to S106) of supplying the power generation fuel FL sealed in 0A to the main power generation unit 12 to generate and output power serving as load driving power (steps S103 to S106);
A steady operation (step S) in which the amount of the power generation fuel FL supplied to the main power generation unit 12 is adjusted based on the change in the driving state of the power generation section and feedback control for generating and outputting power according to the driving state of the load is performed. S107 to S110) and, based on the stop of the load LD, the fuel F for power generation to the main power generation unit 12.
And a stop operation (steps S111 to S114) of stopping the supply of L and stopping the generation of electric power. As a result, a power supply system applicable to existing devices DVC is realized.

(A) Initial Operation First, in the initial operation, the fuel pack 20A is connected to the I / F
By coupling to the power generation module 10A via the portion 30A, the leakage prevention function of the fuel leakage prevention means provided in the fuel pack 20A is released, and the fuel for power generation sealed in the fuel pack 20A due to the capillary phenomenon in the fuel delivery path. Moves in the fuel delivery path and is automatically supplied to the sub-power supply unit 11 of the power generation module 10A (step S101). In the sub-power supply unit 11, at least the operation control unit 13
, And the power serving as the controller power of the device DVC are generated autonomously, and are constantly output continuously (until the power supply system is connected to the device, the operation power of the operation control unit 13 and the like). Is output (step S102).

As a result, the operation control unit 13 of the power generation module 10A is activated, and monitors the load drive information from the device DVC. When the power supply system is connected to the device DVC, part of the power generated by the sub power supply unit 11 is supplied as controller power to the controller CNT built in the device DVC, and the controller CNT enters a driving state. Then, while controlling the drive of the load LD of the device DVC, the drive state is notified to the operation control unit 13 of the power supply system 1 (the power generation module 10A) as load drive information.

(B) Starting Operation Next, in the starting operation, when the user of the device DVC performs an operation for driving the load LD, the controller CNT sends the operation control unit 13 of the power generation module 10A.
A power supply request signal for requesting the supply of power to be the load drive power is output as load drive information. When the operation control unit 13 receives the load drive information including the voltage displacement input via the terminal unit 184 of the power supply system 1 (step S103), the operation control unit 13 starts the power generation operation of the main power generation unit with respect to the activation control unit 15. An operation control signal for starting (starting) is output (step S104).

The start control unit 15 supplies a part of the electric power generated by the sub power supply unit 11 to the output control unit 14 and the main power generation unit 12 based on the operation control signal from the operation control unit 13. (Step S1)
05), power generation fuel FL sealed in fuel pack 20A
Is supplied to the main power generation unit 12 via the output control unit 14,
Device DVC that generates power to be load drive power
(Output to load LD) (Step S10)
6). Thereby, the main power generation unit 12 is automatically started in response to the driving of the load LD in the device DVC, and the load driving power having a predetermined output voltage is supplied, so that the electric power substantially equal to that of a general-purpose chemical battery is obtained. Load L while realizing the characteristics
D can be driven favorably.

In this start-up operation, the operation control unit 13 generates the device DVC
Is monitored as one of the load drive information, and the voltage data itself or an activation end signal indicating that a predetermined voltage has been reached is transmitted to the controller CNT of the device DVC. May be output. This allows
The present invention can be favorably applied as a power supply to a device DVC having a configuration for controlling the drive state of the load LD based on the voltage value of the load drive power.

(C) Normal Operation Next, in the normal operation, the operation control unit 13 constantly monitors a change in the output voltage of the load driving power generated by the main power generation unit 12 and supplied to the device DVC as load driving information. (Step S107), and the power generated in the main power generation unit 12 is set so that the output voltage of the load driving power is set within a predetermined voltage range (for example, a fluctuation range of the output voltage in a general-purpose chemical battery). An operation control signal for increasing / decreasing the amount (power generation amount) is output to the output control unit 14 (step S108).

The output control unit 14 adjusts the amount of the fuel FL for power generation to be supplied to the main power generation unit 12 based on the operation control signal from the operation control unit 13 (step S109), and is supplied to the device DVC. Feedback control is performed so that the output voltage of the load driving power is set in the above voltage range (step S110). Thus, even when a change in the drive state (load state) of the load LD on the device DVC side causes a voltage change in the load drive power, the load L is not changed.
The power corresponding to the power consumption of the device DVC, which changes with the driving of D, can be supplied.

The controller CN of the device DVC
In the case where the drive state of the load LD is grasped by T and a function of requesting the power supply system side to supply power according to the drive state is provided, the operation control unit 13 controls the power supply from the controller CNT. A change request signal is received as load drive information (step S107), and an operation control signal for setting the power generated in the main power generation unit 12 to an output voltage according to the request is output to the output control unit 14 (step S108). ).

The output control unit 14 adjusts the amount of the fuel FL for power generation to be supplied to the main power generation unit 12 based on the operation control signal from the operation control unit 13 (step S109), and is supplied to the device DVC. Control is performed so that the output voltage of the load driving power is set to a voltage according to the request (step S110). Thereby, the load L on the device DVC side is obtained.
Since appropriate power is supplied in accordance with the drive state (load state) of D, the voltage change of the load drive power due to the change in the drive state of the load LD is greatly suppressed, and the occurrence of operation abnormality in the device DVC is suppressed. can do.

(D) Stop operation Next, when the device DVC shifts from the ON state to the OFF state during the feedback control in the above-described steady operation, or when the device DVC or the power supply system 1 causes an abnormal operation for some reason. Since the state in which the output voltage of the load driving power supplied to the device DVC deviates from the predetermined voltage range is continued until the predetermined time is reached, it is determined that the conditions of this voltage range and the duration are satisfied. Is determined, this determination result is treated as load drive information (step S111), and the main power generation unit 1
Then, an operation control signal for stopping the generation of the power in Step 2 is output to the output control unit 14 (Step S112).

The output control unit 14 cuts off the supply of the power generation fuel FL to the main power generation unit 12 based on the operation control signal from the operation control unit 13 and promotes an endothermic reaction for hydrogen generation. Is stopped (step S113), the operation of the main power generation unit 12 is stopped (step S114), and the supply of the load driving power to the device DVC is stopped. That is, when the load disappears due to the operation of stopping the load LD by the user of the device DVC or the like, or the power supply system 1 is removed from the device DVC, in the above-described steady operation,
Even when the feedback control for setting the output voltage of the load driving power to a predetermined voltage range is performed, the operation control unit 13 greatly deviates from the preset voltage range of the load driving power. Is detected continuously for a certain period of time or longer, it is determined that the load LD of the device DVC has stopped or disappeared, and the power generation operation in the main power generation unit 12 is stopped.

Further, the controller CN of the device DVC
In the case where the stop state of the load LD is grasped by T and a function of requesting the power supply system to stop the power supply is provided, the operation control unit 13 outputs the power stop request signal from the controller CNT to the load. It is received as drive information (Step S111), and outputs an operation control signal for stopping generation of power in the main power generation unit 12 to the output control unit 14 (Step S112).

The output control section 14 cuts off the supply of the power generation fuel FL to the main power generation section 12 based on the operation control signal from the operation control section 13 and promotes an endothermic reaction for hydrogen generation. Is stopped (step S113), the operation of the main power generation unit 12 is stopped (step S114), and the supply of the load driving power to the device DVC is stopped. Thereby, the load L in the device DVC is
In response to the stop of D or the like, the supply of the fuel for power generation is shut off and the main power generation unit 12 automatically stops. Electrical characteristics can be realized.

As described above, according to the power supply system according to the present embodiment, the drive state (load drive) of the load LD (equipment or the like) connected to the power supply system without receiving supply of fuel or the like from outside the power supply system. According to the information, it is possible to perform the supply and stop control of the power as the predetermined drive power and the adjustment control of the amount of generated power, so that the fuel for power generation can be efficiently consumed. Therefore, it is possible to provide a power supply system that realizes substantially the same electrical characteristics as a general-purpose chemical battery, has a small burden on the environment, and has extremely high energy use efficiency.

In the power supply system according to the present embodiment, as described later, the power generation module is integrated and formed in a minute space by applying a micro-machine manufacturing technique, so that the power generation module is reduced in size and weight. In this way, by configuring the battery to have the same shape as a general-purpose chemical battery conforming to the standards such as the Japanese Industrial Standards (JIS), general-purpose chemical batteries can be used in both the external shape and electrical characteristics (voltage / current characteristics). High compatibility with batteries can be achieved, and spread in the existing battery market can be further facilitated. As a result, emission of harmful substances such as fuel cells can be significantly suppressed, and high energy use efficiency can be realized, in place of existing chemical cells that have many problems in terms of environmental problems and energy use efficiency. Since the power supply system using the power generator can be easily spread,
The use efficiency of energy resources can be improved while suppressing the influence on the environment.

[Second Embodiment] Next, a second embodiment of the power generation module applied to the power supply system according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 21 is a block diagram showing a second embodiment of the power generation module applied to the power supply system according to the present invention. Here, the same components as those of the above-described first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be simplified or omitted.

In the power generation module 10A according to the first embodiment described above, the power generation fuel FL used in the sub power supply section 11 is discharged as it is to the outside of the power supply system 1 as exhaust gas, or Although the configuration for recovery by the product recovery means has been described, in the power generation module 10B according to the present embodiment, when the power generation operation in the sub power supply unit 11 does not involve a change in the component of the power generation fuel FL, or with a change in the component. Even in the case where a specific fuel component is contained, the power generation fuel FL used in the sub power supply
2 as a power generation fuel, or a specific fuel component is extracted and reused.

More specifically, as shown in FIG. 21, the power generation module 10B according to the present embodiment includes a sub power supply unit 11 having the same configuration and function as the first embodiment (see FIG. 3). , A power generation unit 12, an operation control unit 13, an output control unit 14, and a start-up control unit 15, and in particular, power generation fuel (exhaust gas) after being used for generating power in the sub power supply unit 11. All or part of the power generation module 1
It is configured to be supplied to the main power generation unit 12 via the output control unit 14 without being discharged to the outside of OB.

That is, the sub-power supply unit 11 applied to the present embodiment does not consume or convert the fuel component of the power generation fuel FL supplied from the fuel pack 20 via the I / F unit 30, but performs a predetermined operation. A configuration that can generate and output electric power (for example, the power generation device described in the second, third, fifth, or seventh configuration example in the first embodiment described above), or the fuel of the power generation fuel FL Even when the components are consumed and converted, a configuration for generating exhaust gas containing a fuel component that can be used for the power generation operation in the main power generation unit 12 (for example, the fourth or sixth embodiment in the first embodiment described above) (The power generation device shown in the configuration example).

As the main power generation section 12, the first power generation section
In the case where the power generation devices shown in the first to sixth configuration examples in the embodiment are applied, as the power generation fuel FL enclosed in the fuel pack 20, a fuel substance having ignitability or combustibility, for example, , Liquefied fuels consisting of alcoholic liquid fuels such as methanol, ethanol and butanol, and hydrocarbons such as dimethyl ether, isobutane and natural gas;
A gaseous fuel such as hydrogen gas is applied.

That is, the liquid fuel and the liquefied fuel are liquid when sealed in the fuel pack 20 under predetermined filling conditions (temperature, pressure, etc.). By shifting to a predetermined environmental condition such as pressure, the fuel gas is vaporized to become a high-pressure fuel gas, and the gaseous fuel is sealed in the fuel pack 20 in a state of being compressed at a predetermined pressure and supplied to the sub-power supply unit 11. When this occurs, the fuel gas becomes a high-pressure fuel gas corresponding to the filling pressure.
L, for example, using the pressure energy of the fuel gas in the sub-power supply unit 11 to generate controller power or operating power, and then performing an electrochemical reaction using the exhaust gas of the sub-power supply unit 11 in the main power generation unit 12 Electric power to be the load driving electric power can be generated by the combustion reaction or the combustion reaction.

[Third Embodiment] Next, a third embodiment of the power generation module applied to the power supply system according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 22 is a block diagram showing a third embodiment of the power generation module applied to the power supply system according to the present invention. Here, the same components as those of the above-described first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be simplified or omitted.

In the power generation modules 10A and 10B according to the first and second embodiments described above, the sub power supply 11
As the power generation fuel FL supplied from the fuel pack 20
In the power generation module according to the present embodiment, the sub-power supply unit is configured such that the power generation fuel FL sealed in the fuel pack 20 is used. , And has a configuration in which a predetermined power is always generated independently and autonomously.

More specifically, as shown in FIG. 22, the power generation module 10C according to the present embodiment includes a main power generation unit 12 having the same configuration and function as the first embodiment (see FIG. 3). , An operation control unit 13, an output control unit 14, and a start-up control unit 15, and a sub-controller that constantly and independently generates a predetermined electric power without using the power generation fuel FL sealed in the fuel pack 20. It has a configuration including a power supply unit 11. Specific configurations of the sub power supply unit 11 include, for example, thermoelectric conversion based on a temperature difference in the surrounding environment of the power supply system 1 (temperature difference power generation), and photoelectric conversion based on light energy incident from outside the power supply system 1. Conversion (photovoltaic power generation) and the like can be applied favorably.

Hereinafter, a specific example of the sub power supply unit according to the present embodiment will be briefly described with reference to the drawings. (First Configuration Example of Non-Fuel-Type Sub-Power Supply Unit) FIG.
FIG. 2 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a configuration example of FIG. In the first configuration example, as a specific example of the sub power supply unit, there is a configuration as a power generation device that generates power by thermoelectric conversion power generation using a temperature difference in the surrounding environment inside and outside the power supply system 1.

As shown in FIG. 23A, a sub power supply 11S according to the first configuration example includes, for example, a first temperature holding section 311 provided at one end of the power supply system 1 and a power supply system 1S. Temperature holding section 312 provided on the other end side of the
And a thermoelectric conversion element 313 having one end connected to the first temperature holding unit 311 and the other end connected to the second temperature holding unit 312. are doing. Here, the first and second temperature holding units 31
The first and second temperature holding units 31 and 312 are configured so that the amount of heat to be held changes as needed according to the temperature state of the surrounding environment inside and outside the power supply system 1.
The arrangement positions are set so that the temperatures at 1 and 312 are different from each other.

Specifically, for example, one of the first and second temperature holding units 311 and 312 is provided with an opening (not shown) provided in a device DVC to which the power supply system 1 is mounted. Through this, it is possible to apply a configuration that is always exposed to the outside air and maintained at a constant temperature. Further, the thermoelectric conversion element 313 has the same configuration as that shown in the fourth configuration example (see FIG. 7B) in the first embodiment described above. In this configuration example,
The configuration of the sub power supply unit 11S composed of the temperature difference generator can be formed in a minute space by applying a micromachine manufacturing technique, similarly to the configuration described in the above-described embodiment.

In the sub power supply section 11S having such a configuration, as shown in FIG. 23 (b), the first and second temperature holding sections 311 are provided in accordance with the bias of the temperature distribution in the peripheral environment of the power supply system 1. , 312, an electromotive force corresponding to the thermal energy due to the temperature gradient is generated by the Seebeck effect in the thermoelectric conversion element 313, and power is generated.

Therefore, by applying the power generator having such a configuration to the sub power supply unit, the power supply system 1
As long as there is a bias in the temperature distribution in the surrounding environment, predetermined power is constantly and independently generated by the sub power supply unit 11S, and can be supplied to each component inside and outside the power supply system 1. Further, according to this configuration, all of the power generation fuel FL sealed in the fuel pack 20 can be used for generation of power in the main power generation unit 12, so that the power generation fuel can be effectively used. In addition, power as load driving power can be supplied to the device DVC for a long time.

In the present embodiment, the description has been given of the temperature difference generator which generates electric power by the Seebeck effect with respect to the deviation of the temperature distribution in the surrounding environment. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Alternatively, a configuration may be employed in which power is generated based on a thermoelectron emission phenomenon in which free electrons are emitted from a metal surface due to heating of the metal.

(Second Configuration Example of Non-fuel Type Sub-Power Supply Unit) FIG.
FIG. 4 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating a second configuration example of the sub power supply unit applicable to the power supply module according to the present embodiment. In the second configuration example, as a specific example of the sub-power supply unit, there is a configuration as a power generation device that generates power by photoelectric conversion power generation using light energy incident from the outside of the power supply system 1.

As shown in FIG. 24A, the sub power supply section 11T according to the first configuration example is, for example, a well-known photoelectric conversion cell (solar cell) in which a p-type semiconductor 321 and an n-type semiconductor 322 are joined. Is provided. When such a photoelectric conversion cell is irradiated with light (light energy) LT having a predetermined wavelength, electron-hole pairs are generated in the vicinity of the pn junction 323 due to a photovoltaic effect, and the inside of the photoelectric conversion cell is generated. Electrons (-) polarized by the electric field diffuse into the n-type semiconductor 322 and holes (+) diffuse into the p-type semiconductor 321 (drift).
Then, an electromotive force is generated between the electrodes provided between the p-type semiconductor 321 and the n-type semiconductor 322 (between the output terminals Oe and Of) to generate power.

Here, generally, the storage space for the battery (or power supply unit) in the existing device is located at a position such as the back side of the device where light energy (specifically, sunlight or illumination light) is difficult to enter. Because it is arranged or has a configuration that is completely stored inside the device,
There is a possibility that light does not sufficiently enter the sub power supply unit.
Therefore, when the power supply system 1 to which the sub power supply unit 11T according to the present configuration example is applied is mounted on the device DVC, at least the sub power supply unit 11T or the power generation module 10C as shown in FIG. The device DVC has an opening (or
Light transmission portion) By providing a configuration having an HL or a housing of the device DVC made of a transparent or translucent light transmissive member, the minimum necessary for generating predetermined power in the sub power supply portion 11T is provided. It is necessary to apply a configuration in which light energy (light of a predetermined wavelength) is incident.

Therefore, by applying the power generator having such a configuration to the sub power supply, the device DVC
As long as is used in an environment where predetermined light energy is incident, such as outdoors or indoors, predetermined power is constantly and independently generated by the sub power supply unit 11T, and can be supplied to each component inside and outside the power supply system 1. it can. Further, according to this configuration, all of the power generation fuel FL sealed in the fuel pack 20 can be used for generating power in the main power generation unit 12, so that efficient consumption of the power generation fuel FL is realized. be able to. In this configuration example, only the most basic configuration of the photoelectric conversion cell (solar cell) is shown in FIG. 24A, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the power generation efficiency is further improved. Alternatively, a configuration based on another configuration or principle having a high level may be applied.

<By-product Recovery Means> Next, by-product recovery means applicable to the power supply systems according to the above-described embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 25 is a block diagram showing one embodiment of a by-product recovery means applicable to the power supply system according to the present invention. Here, the same components as those of the above-described embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be simplified or omitted.

In each of the above embodiments, the main power generation unit 1
A configuration for generating a predetermined power by an electrochemical reaction, a combustion reaction, or the like using the power generation fuel FL sealed in the fuel pack 20 as the second power supply unit 11 or the sub power supply unit 11 (the main power generation unit shown in each of the above configuration examples) In the case where the (auxiliary power supply unit) is applied, by-products may be discharged in addition to the electric power. Some of these by-products include substances that cause environmental pollution by being discharged to the natural world and substances that cause malfunctions of devices to which the power supply system is mounted, In view of the necessity of minimizing the discharge of such by-products, it is preferable to apply a configuration provided with a by-product collecting means as described below.

The by-product recovery means applicable to the power supply system according to the present invention is, as shown in FIG.
0D, the fuel pack 20D and the I / F unit 30D,
For example, in the power generation module 10D, a separation / recovery unit 16 that recovers all or a part of by-products generated when power is generated in the main power generation unit 12 is provided. And a recovery holding section 21 for fixedly holding the recovered by-product. Here, only the case where the by-product generated in the main power generation unit 12 is collected will be described in detail, but it goes without saying that the same can be applied to the sub power supply unit 11 as well.

The separation / recovery section 16 has the configuration shown in each of the above-described configuration examples.
At least the device DV to which the power supply system 1 is attached
With respect to C, in a main power generation unit 12 (which may include the sub power supply unit 11) that generates power to be load driving power (voltage / current), a sub power generated when the power is generated is generated. A product or a specific component of the by-product is separated, and the recovery holding unit 2 provided in the fuel pack 20D via a by-product recovery path provided in the I / F unit 30D.
Send to 1.

In the main power generation section 12 (which may include the sub power supply section 11) to which each of the above configuration examples is applied, water ( H ₂ O), nitrogen oxides (NO _X ), sulfur oxides (SO _X ), etc., all or some of them,
Alternatively, only specific components are collected by the separation and collection unit 16 and sent out to the by-product collection path. When the collected by-product is in a liquid state, for example, by forming the inner diameter of the by-product collection path so as to change continuously, the by-product is collected from the separation / collection unit 16 by utilizing the capillary phenomenon. By-products can be automatically sent to the holding unit 21.

[0204] The collection and holding section 21 is provided with the fuel pack 20.
D, or a part of the fuel pack 20.
Only in a state where D is connected to the power generation module 10D, the by-product recovered by the separation and recovery unit 16 can be sent and held. That is, in a power supply system in which the fuel pack 20D is configured to be detachable from the power generation module 10D, by-products or specific components collected and held in a state where the fuel pack 20D is separated from the power generation module 10D are removed. To prevent leakage or discharge to the outside of the fuel pack 20D,
The collection and holding unit 21 is configured to be fixedly or irreversibly held.

Here, as described above, water (H ₂ O), nitrogen oxides (NO _X ), and sulfur oxides (SO _X ) are generated as by-products by the generation of power in the main power generation section 12. In such a case, since water (H ₂ O) is in a liquid state at normal temperature and normal pressure, the water (H ₂ O) is satisfactorily sent to the recovery holding unit 21 through the by-product recovery path, but the nitrogen oxide (N ₂ O)
O _X) and sulfur oxides (such as SO _X) or the like, the point of vaporization is generally less than the normal temperature at normal pressure, in the case of by-products in the gaseous state, the volume becomes huge, a preset Since there is a possibility that the volume of the collection and holding unit 21 may be exceeded, the separation and collection unit 1
By increasing the pressure in the inside 6 and the inside of the collecting and holding unit 21, the collected by-product may be liquefied to reduce the volume and be held in the collecting and holding unit 21.

Therefore, a specific configuration of the collection and holding unit 21 is a configuration that can irreversibly absorb, adsorb and fix, fix, and the like the collected by-products and specific components. A control valve that is closed by the internal pressure of the recovery holding unit 21 or the physical pressure of a spring or the like, similarly to the configuration in which the absorbing polymer is filled in the inside 21 or the fuel leakage preventing means provided in the fuel pack 20 described above. And the like, and a configuration provided with a collected material leakage prevention means can be satisfactorily applied.

The by-product having such a structure is
FIG. 12 shows a power supply system having a collecting means.
Such a fuel reforming type fuel cell is suitable for the main power generation section 12A.
If used, the water in the fuel reformer 210a
Steam reforming reaction, aqueous shift reaction and selective oxidation reaction (chemical
According to the reaction formulas (1) to (3)), hydrogen gas (H₂)When
Carbon dioxide produced together (CO₂) And fuel electricity
Electrochemical reaction (chemical reaction formula) in the pond main body 210b
(6), (7)), the electric power is generated and
Water (H₂O) as a by-product from the main power generation unit 12
Emissions, but carbon dioxide (CO₂) Discharge
The amount is extremely small and has almost no effect on the device.
Is discharged outside the power system as non-recoverable substances,
On the other hand, water (H ₂O) etc. are collected by the separation and collection unit 16
For example, by-product recovery path utilizing capillary phenomenon
To the collection and holding unit 21 in the fuel pack 20D via the
And are irreversibly retained.

Here, the electrochemical reaction (chemical reaction formulas (2) and (3)) in the main power generation unit 12 (fuel cell main body) is as follows:
The water (H ₂ O) generated in the main power generation unit 12 is almost water vapor (gas) because the heat generation proceeds at about 60 to 80 ° C.
It is discharged in the state of. Therefore, the separation and recovery unit 16 cools the steam (H ₂₎ discharged from the main power generation unit 12 or applies pressure to the water (H ₂
Only the component O) is liquefied and recovered by separation from other gas components.

In the present embodiment, at least
A fuel cell of a fuel reforming system is suitable for the configuration of the main power generation unit 12.
Methanol (CH) as a fuel for power generation₃OH)
Is shown, so that by-products
Mostly water (H₂O) and other small amounts of carbon dioxide
Element (CO₂) Outside the power system,
Of a specific component (ie, water) in the separation / recovery section 16
Separation and recovery can be realized relatively easily.
When a substance other than methanol is applied as fuel for electricity
Also, a configuration other than the fuel cell was applied as the main power generation unit 12.
If water (H ₂O), for example, relatively large
Carbon dioxide (CO₂) And nitrogen oxides (NO_X),sulfur
Oxide (SO_X) May be generated. like this
In such a case, the separation method
Produces, for example, water, which is liquid, and other large quantities
After separating the specific gas components (such as carbon dioxide)
Single or multiple collection tanks provided in fuel pack 20D
The holding unit 21 may hold them together or individually.
No.

As described above, according to the power supply system to which the by-product recovery means according to the present embodiment is applied, at least one component of the by-products generated when the power is generated by the power generation module 10D is fuel. By being irreversibly held by the collection holding unit 21 provided in the pack 20D, discharge or leakage to the outside of the power supply system is suppressed, so that device malfunction or deterioration due to by-products (for example, water). Can be prevented, and by collecting the fuel pack 20D holding the by-products, the by-products can be appropriately processed by a method that does not burden the natural environment, and the by-products ( For example, pollution of the natural environment and global warming due to carbon dioxide) can be prevented.

The by-products recovered by the separation and recovery method described above are irreversibly held in the recovery and holding section by the following holding operation. FIG. 26 is a schematic diagram illustrating an operation of holding the by-product by the by-product recovery unit according to the present embodiment. Here, the same components as those of the above-described embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be simplified or omitted.

As shown in FIG. 26 (a), a fuel pack 20D according to this embodiment has a fixed volume, and has a fuel-filled space 22A filled with a power generation fuel FL such as methanol, for example. The volume of the collection and holding space 22B, in which by-products such as water sent from the separation and collection unit 16 are held, and the volume of the collection and holding space 22B are relatively varied as described below,
A collection bag 23 that separates the collection holding space 22B from the fuel filling space 22A, and a fuel supply valve 24A that supplies the power generation fuel FL filled in the fuel filling space 22A to the output control unit 14.
A by-product intake valve 24B for taking into the by-products sent from the separation and collection unit 16 into the collection and holding space 22B;
Is configured.

Here, as described above, both the fuel supply valve 24A and the by-product intake valve 24B allow the fuel pack 20D to be connected to the power generation module 10D via the I / F unit 30D.
For example, the supply of the power generation fuel FL and the incorporation of by-products can be performed only in the state where the power generation fuel FL and the by-products are taken into the fuel pack 20D. It has a configuration provided with a function of a control valve that closes due to an appropriate pressure or the like. As described above, instead of providing the by-product intake valve 24B with the function of a control valve, the recovery holding space 22B may be configured to be filled with an absorbing (water absorbing) polymer or the like.

The fuel pack 20D having such a configuration
In FIG. 26A, as shown in FIG.
The fuel for power generation sealed in 2A is supplied to the power generation module 10D (the main power generation unit 12, the sub power supply unit 1) via the fuel supply valve 24A.
1), an operation of generating a predetermined electric power is performed, and a specific component (for example, water) of the by-product generated by the separation and recovery unit 16 with the generation of the electric power. ) Is separated and collected, and is taken into and held in the collection holding space 22B via the by-product collection path and the by-product intake valve 24B.

As a result, as shown in FIGS. 26B and 26C, the fuel F for power generation sealed in the fuel sealing space 22A is formed.
As the volume of L decreases, the volume of a specific component or substance held in the collection holding space 22B relatively increases. At this time, by applying a configuration in which the collecting and holding space 22B is filled with an absorbing polymer or the like, the collecting and holding space has a larger volume than the substantial volume of the by-product collected and taken in. The volume of 22B can be controlled.

Therefore, the fuel filling spaces 22A and 22B
26 is not only increased or decreased relatively with the power generation (power generation) operation in the power generation module 10D, but also according to the amount of by-products held in the recovery holding space 22B, as shown in FIG. As shown in b), by pressing the collection bag 23 outward at a predetermined pressure, the fuel filled space 22 is pressed.
A pressure is applied to the power generation fuel FL enclosed in the power generation module 10D.
26C, and as shown in FIG. 26C, the by-product held in the recovery holding space 22B almost completely eliminates the power generation fuel FL sealed in the fuel sealing space 22A. Can be supplied up to.

In this embodiment, all or a part of the by-products separated and recovered by the separation and recovery unit 16 attached to the power generation module 10D is recovered and the fuel pack 20 is recovered.
D and the non-recovered substances
Although the case of discharging to the outside has been described, all or a part of the collected by-product (for example, water) is
A configuration may be used in which the power is reused as a fuel component when power is generated in the 0D (particularly, the main power generation unit 12 and the sub power supply unit 11).

Specifically, the main power generation section 12 (the sub power supply section 11
As a part of the fuel reforming system, the water is generated as a part of the by-product. In a fuel cell, water is required for a steam reforming reaction of a fuel for power generation or the like. Therefore, as shown by a dotted arrow in FIG. 12 to be recycled for these reactions. According to this, the amount of water previously sealed in the fuel pack 20D together with the power generation fuel FL for the steam reforming reaction and the like, and the amount of by-products (water) Since the amount of fuel can be reduced, more fuel FL for power generation can be sealed in the fuel pack 20D having a fixed capacity, and the power supply capacity as a power supply system can be improved.

<Remaining Amount Detecting Means> Next, the remaining amount detecting means for the power generation fuel applicable to the power supply system according to each of the above-described embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of a remaining amount detecting unit applicable to the power supply system according to the present invention. Here, the same components as those of the above-described embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be simplified or omitted.

As shown in FIG. 27, the fuel remaining amount detecting means applicable to the power supply system according to the present invention is a power generation module 1 having the same configuration and function as those of the above-described embodiments.
0E, the fuel pack 20E and the I / F unit 30E
The amount (remaining amount) of the power generation fuel FL remaining in the fuel pack 20E is detected in any of the power generation module 10E, the I / F unit 30E, and the fuel pack 20E (here, the power generation module 10E), It has a configuration in which a remaining amount detection unit 17 that outputs the remaining amount detection signal to the operation control unit 13 is provided.

The remaining amount detecting section 17 is operated by, for example, the electric power supplied from the sub power generating section 11 described above, and detects the amount of the power generating fuel FL remaining in the fuel pack 20E. Fuel F for power generation in fuel pack 20E
When L is sealed in a liquid state, a method of measuring the level of the fuel using an optical sensor or the like, a method of measuring a change in attenuation (dimming rate) of light transmitted through the fuel, or the like is employed. Thus, the remaining amount of the power generation fuel FL is detected.

The remaining amount of the power generation fuel FL detected by the remaining amount detection unit 17 is output to the operation control unit 13 as a remaining amount detection signal, and the operation control unit 13 performs the operation based on the remaining amount detection signal. An operation control signal for controlling the operation state of the main power generation unit 12 is output to the output control unit 14, and the controller CNT built in the device DVC is connected to the power supply system 1 via the terminal unit 184.
The information about the remaining amount of the fuel for power generation (fuel remaining amount information) is output.

Specifically, in the above-described overall operation of the power supply system (see FIG. 20), when starting up the power supply system, the operation control unit 13 sends the remaining amount detection signal from the remaining amount detection unit 17 in advance. After referring to and determining whether or not the amount of power generation fuel FL that can normally execute the start-up operation remains, the operation is executed. Here, when an abnormality is detected in the remaining amount of the fuel FL for power generation (for example, when the remaining amount sharply decreases), the operation control unit 13 is built in the device DVC via the terminal unit 184. Outputs information on remaining amount abnormality to the controller CNT, and outputs the device D
Notify the VC user.

In the above-described overall operation of the power supply system (see FIG. 20), when the normal operation (feedback control) of the power supply system is continued, the operation control unit 13
Is an operation for sequentially referring to the remaining amount detection signal from the remaining amount detecting unit 17 and controlling the amount of electric power generated in the main power generating unit 12 based on a predetermined correlation according to the remaining amount of the fuel FL for power generation. A control signal is output to the output control unit 14. For example, as the remaining amount of the power generation fuel FL decreases, the power (particularly, the output voltage) generated by the main power generation unit 12 gradually changes over time. An operation control signal for performing control to decrease (decrease) is output to the output control unit 14, and the actual remaining amount data itself and the remaining amount are transmitted to the controller CNT incorporated in the device DVC via the terminal unit 184. A ratio or estimated remaining time at which power can be output is output as remaining fuel information. As a result, the function of notifying the user of the device DVC of the remaining battery level based on the output voltage from the power supply, the remaining battery level data, and the like, which is standardly mounted on the existing device, can be operated well. it can.

Further, in this case, when the remaining amount detecting unit 17 detects a remaining amount abnormality such as a sudden decrease in the remaining amount of the power generation fuel FL, the operation control unit 13 sends a detection signal regarding the remaining amount abnormality. Of the power generation in the main power generation unit 12 (specifically, the power generation fuel FL to the main power generation unit 12)
Output control unit 14 for shutting off the supply of
To stop the power generation operation of the main power generation unit 12 and output information about the remaining amount abnormality to the controller CNT built in the device DVC via the terminal unit 184, thereby using the device DVC. Notify others. Thereby, the occurrence of abnormal leakage of the fuel FL for power generation from the fuel pack 20E to the outside of the power supply system 1 is quickly detected, and the user of the device DVC is notified to take appropriate measures. Can be.

<Fuel Stabilizing Means> Next, fuel stabilizing means applicable to the power supply system according to each of the above-described embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 28 is a block diagram showing one embodiment of the fuel stabilizing means applicable to the power supply system according to the present invention. Here, the same components as those of the above-described embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be simplified or omitted.

The fuel stabilizing means applicable to the power supply system according to the present invention is, as shown in FIG. 28, a power generation module 10 having the same configuration and function as those of the above embodiments.
F, the fuel pack 20F and the I / F 30F,
Either the / F section 30F or the fuel pack 20F (here, the fuel pack 20F) detects the state (temperature, pressure, etc.) of the power generation fuel FL sealed in the fuel pack 20F. If a certain threshold is exceeded,
A supply control valve 25 for stopping the supply of the power generation fuel FL from the fuel pack 20F to the power generation module 10F (the sub power supply unit 11 and the main power generation unit 12), and a state in which the power generation fuel FL in the fuel pack 20F is charged (temperature, Pressure, etc.) and a pressure control valve 26 for controlling the sealed state to a predetermined stabilized state is provided.

The supply control valve 25 is automatically operated when the temperature of the fuel FL for power generation sealed in the fuel pack 20F rises above a predetermined threshold value, so that the fuel for power generation to the fuel delivery path is generated. The delivery of the fuel FL is shut off. In particular,
As the temperature of the power generation fuel FL rises, the fuel pack 20F
By increasing the internal pressure, a control valve in which the valve closes can be applied well.

Further, the pressure control valve 26 is
As the temperature of the power generation fuel FL enclosed in F increases,
When the pressure in the fuel pack 20F rises above a predetermined threshold value, the fuel pack 20F is automatically activated, and
Decrease the pressure in F. Specifically, the fuel pack 20
When the pressure in F increases, a pressure release valve (release valve) that opens can be applied favorably.

Thus, for example, when the temperature or pressure in the fuel pack 20F rises due to the generation of power in the power generation module 10F or the heat generated by driving the load of the device while the power supply system is mounted on the device DVC. In this case, the operation of automatically stopping the supply of the fuel for power generation FL and the operation of releasing the pressure are performed, so that the sealed state of the fuel for power generation FL can be stabilized.

In the above-described overall operation of the power supply system (see FIG. 20), when the power supply system is activated, the operation control unit 13 preliminarily sets the operation state of the supply control valve 25, that is, the operation from the fuel pack 20F. Fuel F for power generation
After referring to the supply state of L and determining whether or not the power generation fuel FL is normally supplied, the operation is executed. Although not shown in the drawings, the supply cutoff of the power generation fuel FL is detected despite the operation of stabilizing the state of the power generation fuel FL being filled by the fuel stabilizing means (particularly, the pressure control valve 26). In such a case, the operation control unit 13 outputs information on the charging abnormality of the power generation fuel FL to the controller CNT incorporated in the device DVC via the terminal unit 184 of the power supply system 1 and outputs the information of the device DVC. Notify the user.

In the above-described overall operation of the power supply system (see FIG. 20), when the normal operation (feedback control) of the power supply system is continued, the operation control unit 13
Sequentially refers to the operation state of the supply control valve 25, that is, the supply state of the power generation fuel FL from the fuel pack 20F,
Despite the stabilization operation by the fuel stabilizing means (in particular, the pressure control valve 26), when the supply cutoff of the power generation fuel FL is detected or when the load driving power to the device DVC suddenly decreases, the load driving is performed. When the operation control unit 13 receives the information as information, the operation control unit 13 outputs information regarding the abnormality in the enclosing of the power generation fuel FL to the controller CNT built in the device DVC via the terminal unit 184 (not shown), and Notify the user of the device DVC.

As a result, alteration of the power generation fuel FL due to abnormal filling conditions (temperature, pressure, etc.) of the power generation fuel FL in the fuel pack 20F, abnormal operation of the power generation module 10F (for example, output voltage defect), Fuel pack 20F
Such as leakage of the fuel FL for power generation from the power supply system 1 to the outside of the power supply system 1 is quickly detected, and the fuel FL for combustion having combustibility is detected.
And a highly reliable power supply system ensuring the safety of the power supply can be provided.

<Outer Shape> Next, an outer shape applicable to the power supply system according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 29 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a specific example of an outer shape applicable to the power supply system according to the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram showing a correspondence relationship between an outer shape applied to the power supply system according to the present invention and an outer shape of a general-purpose chemical battery.

In the power supply system having the above-described configuration, the external shape in a state in which the fuel pack 20 is coupled to the power generation module 10 via the I / F section 30 or in a state in which these are integrated is, for example, As shown in FIG. 29, according to the standards of circular batteries 41, 42, 43 widely used for general-purpose chemical batteries conforming to the JIS standard and batteries (non-circular batteries) 44, 45, 46 of a special shape. The power generation module 1 is formed so as to have the same external shape and dimensions as any of these, and
The power generated by the 0 sub power supply unit 11 or the main power generation unit 12 is output via the positive (+) and negative (−) electrode terminals of each battery shape shown in FIG. . Here, a positive terminal is attached to the upper part of the power generating module 10, and a negative terminal is attached to the fuel pack 20. Although not shown, the negative terminal is connected to the power generating module 10.
Are connected via wiring. Then, as shown in FIG. 30, for example, a terminal portion 184 that circulates in a band shape is provided on the side of the power generation module 10, and when the power supply system 1 is accommodated in the device DVC, the internal controller CNT and the terminal are automatically connected. The section 184 is electrically connected, and can receive load drive information. The terminal 18
4 is insulated from the positive electrode and the negative electrode.

Specifically, in a state where the fuel pack 20 and the power generation module 10 are connected, for example, in the main power generation section (see FIG. 12) to which the fuel cell is applied, the fuel cell main body 2 is connected.
The fuel electrode 211 of 10b is connected to the negative electrode terminal,
2 has a configuration electrically connected to the positive electrode terminal.
Further, a configuration in which an internal combustion such as a gas combustion engine or a rotary engine, an external combustion engine, and a generator using electromagnetic induction or the like (see FIGS. 14 to 16) are combined, or a temperature difference generator or an MHD generator is applied. The main power generation section (see FIGS. 17 and 18) has a configuration in which the output terminal of each power generator is electrically connected to the positive terminal and the negative terminal.

The circular batteries 41, 42, and 43 are most commonly used for commercially available manganese dry batteries, alkaline dry batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, lithium batteries, and the like. Type: Fig. 29
(A)) and a button type used in a wristwatch or the like (FIG. 29)
(B)), and has an external shape such as a coin type (FIG. 29 (c)) used for a camera or an electronic organizer.

On the other hand, the non-circular batteries 44, 45, and 46 are specially shaped (customized) individually designed (customized) according to the shape of equipment to be used, such as a compact camera or a digital still camera. FIG. 29 (d)) and a rectangular (FIG. 29 (e)) and flat (FIG. 29 (f)) external shapes corresponding to miniaturization of portable audio equipment and mobile phones.

As described above, each configuration of the power generation module 10 mounted on the power supply system according to the present invention is as follows.
By applying existing micromachine manufacturing technology,
For example, a microchip or a microplant can be formed on the order of millimeter to micron. The main power generation unit 1 of the power generation module 10
2. For example, by applying a fuel cell, a gas fuel turbine, or the like that can realize high energy use efficiency, the same as an existing chemical cell (or more).
The amount of fuel for power generation required to realize the above battery capacity can be suppressed to a relatively small amount.

Therefore, in the power supply system according to the present embodiment, the existing battery shape shown in FIG. 29 can be satisfactorily realized. For example, as shown in FIGS. The external dimensions (for example, the length La, the diameter Da) in a state in which the power generation module 20 is coupled to the power generation module 10 or in a state in which both are integrally formed are shown in FIG.
The configuration can be made so that the external dimensions (for example, length Lp, diameter Dp) of the general-purpose chemical battery 47 as shown in FIG.

FIG. 30 is a conceptual diagram only showing the relationship between the detachable structure (coupling relationship) of the power supply system according to the present invention and the external shape, and takes into account the specific electrode structure and the like. is not. The relationship between the electrode structure and the attachment / detachment structure of the power generation module 10 and the fuel pack 20 in the case where each battery shape is applied to the power supply system according to the present invention will be described in detail in examples described later.

Each of the external shapes shown in FIG. 29 is an example of a chemical battery which is commercially available in accordance with Japanese standards or distributed and sold as an accessory with a device.
It is only a part of a configuration example to which the present invention can be applied. That is, the outer shape applicable to the power supply system according to the present invention may be other than the above specific examples. For example, chemical batteries distributed and sold in countries around the world, or commercialization in the future, are planned. Needless to say, it can be designed so as to match the shape of the chemical battery and also to match the electrical characteristics.

Next, the relationship between the electrode structure and the detachable structure of the power generation module 10 and the fuel pack 20 when the above-described battery shapes are applied to the power supply system according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. (First Embodiment of Detachable Structure) FIGS. 31 (a) to 31
(D) and FIGS. 31 (e) to 31 (h) show the fuel pack and holder of the power supply system according to the first embodiment of the present invention viewed from above, front, side, and rear, respectively. FIG. 32 is a schematic diagram showing a detachable structure of a power generation module and a fuel pack in the power supply system according to the present embodiment. Here, the description of the same configuration as each of the above embodiments will be simplified or omitted.

FIGS. 31 (a) to 31 (d) and FIG.
As shown in (e) to FIG. 31 (h), the power supply system according to the present embodiment includes a fuel pack 51 in which fuel for power generation is sealed under predetermined conditions, and a holder in which the fuel pack is detachably configured. And a unit 52. here,
The fuel pack 51 has a configuration and a function equivalent to those of the above-described embodiments, and a description thereof will be omitted.

The holder unit 52 is roughly divided into a power generation module 10X and an I / F unit having the same configuration as those of the above embodiments, and a power generation unit 52a provided with a positive electrode terminal EL (+), An opposing portion 52b provided with a terminal EL (-), and a pair of connecting portions 52c for connecting the power generating portion 52a and the opposing portion 52b and electrically connecting the power generating portion 52a to the negative electrode terminal EL (-). It is configured to have. Here, the penetrated space SP1 surrounded by the power generation unit 52a, the facing unit 52b, and the connection unit 52c is a storage position when the fuel pack 51 is connected.

In the power supply system having such a configuration, as shown in FIG. 32 (a), a space SP1 composed of a power generation section 52a, an opposing section 52b and a connecting section 52c.
, The fuel outlet (one end side) 51 of the fuel pack 51
a is brought into contact with a fuel delivery path (I / F section; not shown) on the side of the power generation section 52a as a fulcrum, and the other end 51b of the fuel pack 51 is turned and pushed in (in FIG.
9), as shown in FIG. 32 (b), the other end 51b of the fuel pack 51 comes into contact with the facing portion 52b, and
1 is stored in the space SP1 and the fuel pack 51
Is released, and the power generation fuel FL sealed in the fuel pack 51 is supplied to the power generation unit 5 via the fuel delivery path.
The power is supplied to the power generation module 10X built in 2a.

Here, the power supply system is a fuel pack 51
Are housed in the space SP1 and coupled to the holder 52, for example, the outer shape and dimensions are substantially the same as those of the above-described columnar general-purpose chemical battery (see FIGS. 29A and 30C). It is comprised so that it may have. Also,
At this time, in a state where the fuel pack 51 is normally housed in the space SP1, the fuel delivery port 51a of the fuel pack 51 is properly brought into contact with and connected to the fuel delivery path on the power generation unit 52a side. In order to press the other end 51b with an appropriate force and to prevent the fuel pack 51 from accidentally falling off the holder 52, the fuel pack 51 is pressed.
It is preferable that the contact portion between the other end 51b and the opposing portion 52b be configured to engage with an appropriate pressing force. Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 32 (a) and 32 (b), for example, a concave portion 51c is formed in the other end 51b of the fuel pack 51, and the abutting portion of the facing portion 52b has elasticity such as a spring material. An engagement mechanism provided with the convex portion 51d can be applied.

Thus, as described in the above-described overall operation (see FIG. 20),
The power is generated autonomously, and at least the operation power is supplied to the operation control unit 13 in the power generation module 10. Further, the power supply system according to the present embodiment is provided with a predetermined device D
By being mounted on the VC, part of the electric power generated by the sub power supply unit 11 is supplied to the positive terminal EL (+) provided on the power generation unit 52a and the negative terminal EL provided on the facing unit 52b.
Via (-), the power is supplied as drive power to the controller CNT incorporated in the device DVC (initial operation).

Therefore, the battery can be easily handled in the same manner as a general-purpose chemical battery, has the same outer shape and dimensions (in this case, a cylindrical shape) as the general-purpose chemical battery, and has the same or equivalent electrical characteristics. It is possible to realize a completely compatible power supply system capable of supplying electric power having the following features. It can be applied as operating power just like the chemical battery of No.

In particular, in the power supply system according to the present embodiment, a configuration including a fuel cell as the power generation module is applied, and the fuel pack 51 is configured to be detachable from the power generation unit 52a (power generation module 10X). By applying the above-mentioned materials such as decomposable plastics, it is possible to realize high energy use efficiency while suppressing the impact (burden) on the environment. Problems and the problem of effective use of energy resources can be solved satisfactorily.
Further, according to the power supply system according to the present embodiment, the space SP1 on the holder section 52 side where the fuel pack 51 is stored is:
Since the fuel pack 51 has the penetrating shape, the fuel pack 51 can be easily and reliably attached and detached by attaching and detaching the fuel pack 51 to and from the holder 52 while gripping the opposing side surfaces.

(Second Embodiment of Detachable Structure) FIG. 33 (a)
FIG. 33 to FIG. 33 (c) are schematic configuration diagrams showing the external shapes of the fuel pack of the power supply system according to the second embodiment of the present invention viewed from the front, side, and rear, respectively.
(D) to FIG. 31 (g) are schematic configuration diagrams showing the external shape of the holder portion of the power supply system according to the present invention when viewed from above, front, side, and rear, respectively.
FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a structure for attaching and detaching a power generation module and a fuel pack in the power supply system according to the embodiment. here,
The description of the same configuration as that of each of the above embodiments will be simplified or omitted.

As shown in FIGS. 33 (a) to 33 (g), the power supply system according to the present embodiment comprises a fuel pack 61 in which fuel for power generation is sealed under predetermined conditions,
1 is provided with a detachable holder portion 62. Here, since the fuel pack 61 has the same configuration and function as those of the above-described embodiments, the description thereof will be omitted.

The holder section 62 is roughly divided into a power generation section 62a in which the power generation module 10X is housed and provided with the positive terminal EL (+), an opposing section 62b provided with the negative terminal EL (-), and a power generation section. It is configured to include a connecting portion 62c that connects the power generating portion 62a and the negative electrode terminal EL (-) while connecting the 62a and the facing portion 62b.
Here, the power generation part 62a, the facing part 62b, and the connecting part 62c
The concave space SP2 surrounded by the fuel pack 6
This is the storage position when 1 is combined.

In the power supply system having such a configuration, as shown in FIG. 34A, a space SP2 composed of a power generation section 62a, an opposing section 62b, and a connecting section 62c.
With respect to the fuel pack 6, the fuel delivery port 61 a of the fuel pack 61 is brought into contact with the fuel delivery path on the power generation section 62 a side.
3 (arrow P10 in the figure) by fitting
As shown in FIG. 4 (b), the fuel pack 61 is housed in the space SP2, and the leakage prevention function of the fuel pack 61 is released, so that the power generation fuel F sealed in the fuel pack 61 is released.
L is supplied to the power generation module 10X built in the power generation unit 62a via the fuel delivery path.

Here, as in the case of the above-described first embodiment, in the state where the fuel pack 61 is housed in the space SP2 and connected to the holder portion 62, for example, the above-mentioned general-purpose columnar shape is used. Chemical battery (Fig. 29
(A), and FIG. 30 (c)). At this time, in order to prevent the fuel pack 61 from being accidentally dropped from the holder part 62 in a state where the fuel pack 61 is normally stored in the space SP2, the outer shape of the fuel pack 61 is changed to the holder part 62. It is desirable to have a configuration that engages with the internal shape of the space SP2.

As a result, similarly to the first embodiment described above, it can be handled easily as a general-purpose chemical battery, and has the same or equivalent outer shape and electrical characteristics as a general-purpose chemical battery. A fully compatible portable power supply system can be realized. In addition, by appropriately selecting the configuration of the power generation device applied to the power generation module and the constituent materials of the detachable fuel pack, the impact on the environment can be significantly reduced, and the environmental impact of the disposal and disposal of existing chemical batteries can be reduced. It is possible to satisfactorily solve problems and problems of effective use of energy resources.

(Third Embodiment of Removable Structure) FIG. 35 (a)
FIGS. 35 to 35C are schematic configuration diagrams showing the external shape of the fuel pack of the power supply system according to the third embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the front, side, and rear, respectively.
(D) to FIG. 35 (f) are schematic configuration diagrams showing the external shape of the holder portion of the power supply system according to the present invention as viewed from the front, side, and rear, respectively, and FIG. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a structure for attaching and detaching a power generation module and a fuel pack in the power supply system according to the first embodiment. Here, the description of the same configuration as each of the above embodiments will be simplified or omitted.

As shown in FIGS. 35 (a) to 35 (f), the power supply system according to this embodiment comprises a fuel pack 71 in which fuel for power generation is sealed under predetermined conditions,
And a holder 72 configured to be able to store a plurality thereof. Here, the fuel pack 71 has a configuration and a function equivalent to those of the above-described embodiments, and a description thereof will be omitted.

The holder section 72 roughly includes the power generation module 10X, and has a positive terminal EL (+) on the same end surface.
And a power generation unit 72a provided with a negative electrode terminal EL (-);
An upper cover 72b provided to have a space SP3 between the power generation unit 72a and the fuel pack 7 to the space SP3;
1 can be stored and taken out, and the space SP3
And an opening / closing cover 72c for pressing and fixing the fuel pack 71 accommodated therein.

In the power supply system having such a configuration, as shown in FIG. 36 (a), the open / close cover 72c of the holder portion 72 is opened, and one surface of the space SP3 is opened, and a plurality (here, After the (two) fuel packs 71 are inserted in the same direction, FIGS.
As shown in the figure, by closing the open / close cover 72c, the fuel pack 71 is stored in the space SP3, and the open / close cover 72c is connected to the other end 71b of the fuel pack 71.
Is pressed to bring the fuel delivery port 71a of the fuel pack 71 into contact with the fuel delivery path (I / F section; not shown) on the power generation section 72a side, so that the leakage prevention function of the fuel pack 71 is released. The power generation fuel FL sealed in the fuel pack 71 is supplied to the power generation module 10X built in the power generation unit 72a via the fuel delivery path.

Here, the power supply system according to the present embodiment
The fuel pack 71 is stored in the space SP3,
In the state of being connected to 2, for example, it is configured to have an outer shape and dimensions substantially equivalent to those of the above-mentioned specially shaped chemical battery (see FIG. 29 (d)). Further, the fuel pack 71 in a unitary state that is not coupled to the holder portion 72 has, for example, a shape substantially equivalent to that of the above-described cylindrical general-purpose chemical battery (see FIGS. 29A and 30C). And dimensions.

Thus, similar to the above-described embodiments,
The overall configuration of the power supply system including the fuel pack 71 and the holder 72 can be realized as a fully compatible portable power supply system having the same external shape and electrical characteristics as existing chemical cells, and By appropriately selecting the configuration of the power generation device applied to the power generation module and the constituent materials of the removable fuel pack, the impact on the environment can be greatly reduced, and environmental problems caused by dumping and landfilling of existing chemical batteries can be reduced. The problem of energy use efficiency can be solved well. In this embodiment, the holder 72 is built in the power supply unit of the predetermined device DVC in advance, so that only the fuel pack 51 is attached to and detached from the device DVC (holder 72), so that it is as if a cylinder. As in the case of a general-purpose chemical battery having a shape, a power supply system in a simple use form can be provided.

(Fourth Embodiment of Removable Structure) FIG. 37 (a)
FIGS. 37 to 37C are schematic configuration diagrams showing external shapes of the fuel pack of the power supply system according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the front, side, and rear, respectively.
(D) to FIG. 31 (f) are schematic configuration diagrams showing the external shape of the holder portion of the power supply system according to the present invention when viewed from above, front, and side, respectively. FIG. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a structure for attaching and detaching a power generation module and a fuel pack in the power supply system according to the first embodiment. Here, the description of the same configuration as each of the above embodiments will be simplified or omitted.

As shown in FIGS. 37 (a) to 37 (f), the power supply system according to the present embodiment comprises a fuel pack 81 in which fuel for power generation is sealed under predetermined conditions,
And a holder portion 82 in which a plurality of pieces 1 can be stored. Here, the fuel pack 81 has the same configuration and function as those of the above-described embodiments, and thus the description thereof will be omitted.

The holder portion 82 roughly includes the power generation module 10X, and has a positive electrode terminal EL (+) on the same end surface.
And a power generation unit 82a provided with a negative electrode terminal EL (-);
A facing portion 82b having a surface facing the power generating portion 82a, and a base portion 82c connecting the power generating portion 82a and the facing portion 82b
And is configured. Here, the power generation unit 82a,
The concave space SP4 surrounded by the facing portion 82b and the base portion 82c is a storage position when the fuel pack 81 is combined.

In the power supply system having such a configuration, as shown in FIG. 38 (a), a space SP composed of a power generation section 82a, an opposing section 82b and a base section 82c.
4, the fuel delivery port (one end side) 8 of the fuel pack 81
1a is brought into contact with a fuel delivery path (I / F section; not shown) on the power generation section 82a side to serve as a fulcrum, and the other end 81b of the fuel pack 81 is turned and pushed in (arrow P11 in the figure). As shown in FIG. 38 (b), the fuel pack 8
1, the other end 81b abuts on the facing portion 82b and is fixed.
A plurality (two in this case) of fuel packs 81 are placed in the space SP.
4 are stored in the same direction. At this time, fuel pack 8
1 is released, and the power generation fuel FL sealed in the fuel pack 81 is supplied to the power generation module 10X incorporated in the power generation unit 82a via the fuel delivery path.

Here, the power supply system is a fuel pack 81
Are housed in the space SP4 and coupled to the holder portion 82, for example, are configured to have substantially the same outer shape and dimensions as the above-described specially shaped chemical battery (see FIG. 29D). . Also, the fuel pack 81
In the state of a single unit not connected to the holder unit 82, for example, the above-mentioned general-purpose column-shaped general-purpose battery (FIG. 2)
9 (a) and FIG. 30 (c)). At this time, with the fuel pack 81 normally housed in the space SP4, the fuel delivery port 81a of the fuel pack 81 satisfactorily contacts and connects to the fuel delivery path on the side of the power generation unit 82a, and the fuel pack 8
38 in order to prevent the holder 1 from dropping out of the holder part 82 carelessly, as in the first embodiment described above.
As shown in (a) and (b), the contact portion between the other end 81b of the fuel pack 81 and the facing portion 82b is configured to engage with an appropriate pressing force. As a result, a power supply system having the same functions and effects as those of the above-described embodiments can be realized.

(Specific Configuration Example) Next, a specific configuration example of the entire power supply system to which any of the above-described embodiments (including each configuration example) is applied will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 39 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a specific configuration example of the entire power supply system according to the present invention. FIG. 40 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of a fuel reforming section applied to this specific configuration example, and FIG. 41 is another configuration example of a fuel reforming section applied to this specific configuration example. FIG. Here, it is assumed that a fuel cell of a direct fuel supply system is applied as the sub power supply unit 11 provided in the power generation module, and a fuel cell of a fuel reforming system is applied as the main power generation unit 12. Further, the above-described embodiments and configuration examples are appropriately referred to, and the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be simplified.

As shown in FIG. 39, the power supply system 1A according to this specific configuration example is configured such that the power generation module 10 and the fuel pack 20 are detachable via the I / F unit 30, as shown in FIG. , As a whole, as shown in FIG. 29A or FIG.
In addition, these configurations (particularly, the power generation module 10)
It is formed in a minute space using a micromachine manufacturing technique or the like, and is configured to have the same outer dimensions as a general-purpose chemical battery.

The power generation module 10 includes a sub power supply unit 11 and a main power generation unit 12 which extend substantially along the circumferential side surface of a columnar shape and are composed of fuel cells which are separately formed and stacked.
A steam reforming reaction unit 210A (fuel reforming unit 210a) and a selective oxidation reaction unit 210C, which are stacked and formed such that fuel flow channels each having a depth and a width of 500 μm or less are connected inside the cylindrical power generation module 10. A control chip 90 mounted with an operation control unit 13 and an activation control unit 15 which are housed in a microchip inside the power generation module 10, and the sub power supply unit 11 and the main power generation unit 12 from the side of the column of the power generation module 10. Air electrode 11
A plurality of air holes (slits) 14c penetrating to the air electrodes 2 and 212 and taking in external air;
A separation / recovery section 16 for liquefying (condensing) by-products (such as water) generated on the second side and separating and recovering the by-products; and a by-product for supplying a part of the recovered by-products to the steam reforming reaction unit 210A The gas passes through the supply path 16a and the upper surface of the cylinder to the air electrode of the main power generation unit 12, and is generated at least in the fuel electrode side of the main power generation unit, the steam reforming reaction unit 210A, and the selective oxidation reaction unit 210C, and is a non-recovered substance. And a discharge hole 14d for discharging a certain by-product (such as carbon dioxide) to the outside of the power generation module.

The fuel pack 20 has a fuel-filled space 2 in which the fuel FL for power generation supplied to the sub-power supply unit 11 and the main power generation unit 12 is filled and filled, similarly to the configuration shown in FIG.
2A, a collection holding space 22B (collection holding unit 21) for fixedly holding the by-product (water) collected by the separation and collection unit 16, and a boundary between the power generation module 10,
Fuel supply valve 24A (fuel leakage prevention means) for preventing leakage of power generation fuel FL, and by-product intake valve 24B (recovery substance leakage prevention means) for preventing leakage of collected and held by-products (collected matter) ). Here, the fuel pack 20 is formed of the degradable plastic as described above.

The I / F section 30 includes a fuel delivery path 31 for supplying the power generation fuel FL sealed in the fuel pack 20 to the sub power supply section 11 and the main power generation section 12, and the sub power supply section 11.
And a by-product recovery path 32 for sending all or a part of the by-product (water) generated in the main power generation unit 12 and recovered by the separation and recovery unit 16 to the fuel pack 20. ing. Although not shown, the power generation module 10 or the fuel pack 20 or the I / F unit 30 has the fuel for power generation sealed in the fuel charging space 22A of the fuel pack 20 as shown in FIGS. There are provided a remaining amount detecting unit (remaining amount detecting unit 17) for detecting the remaining amount of FL, and a fuel stabilizing unit (supply control valve 25, pressure control valve 26, etc.) for stabilizing the state of filling of the power generation fuel FL. May have a different configuration.

Here, the configuration of the steam reforming reaction unit 210A applied to the power supply system according to this specific configuration example is, for example, as shown in FIG. Discharging section 202a and water discharging section 20 provided to have a predetermined groove shape and a predetermined planar pattern by using a fine processing technique such as a technique.
2b, fuel vaporization section 203a, water vaporization section 203b, mixing section 203c, reforming reaction channel 204, hydrogen gas exhaust section 205
And a region corresponding to the formation region of the reforming reaction channel 204, for example, a thin film heater 206 provided on the other surface side of the micro substrate 201.

The fuel discharge section 202a and the water discharge section 202b
Has a fluid discharge mechanism that discharges power generation fuel and water, which are raw materials in the above-described steam reforming reaction, as liquid particles, for example, in predetermined unit amounts into a flow path. Therefore, the fuel discharge unit 202a and the water discharge unit 20
For example, the progress state of the steam reforming reaction shown in the above chemical reaction formula (3) is controlled based on the discharge amount of the fuel or water for power generation in 2b (for details, a thin film heater described later) The fuel discharge unit 202a and the water discharge unit 202b have a configuration that plays a part of the function of adjusting the fuel supply amount in the output control unit 14 (fuel control unit 14a) described above. ing.

The fuel vaporizing section 203a and the water vaporizing section 203b
Are heaters which are heated in accordance with the volatilization conditions such as the boiling point of the fuel for power generation and water, respectively. Alternatively, by performing a decompression process or the like, the evaporating process shown in FIG. 13A is performed to vaporize, and a mixed gas of fuel gas and water vapor is generated in the mixing unit 203c. Reforming reaction channel 204 and thin film heater 2
06 introduces the mixed gas generated in the mixing section 203c into the reforming reaction channel 204,
A copper-tin (Cu-Zn) -based catalyst (not shown) adhered to the inner wall surface of the substrate and a thin film heater 206 provided corresponding to a region where the reforming reaction channel 204 is formed are reformed. Based on the predetermined thermal energy supplied to the reaction channel 204, the steam reforming reaction shown in FIG. 13A and the chemical reaction formula (3) is caused to generate hydrogen gas (H ₂ ). (Steam reforming reaction process).

The hydrogen gas exhaust unit 205 is connected to the reforming reaction channel 2
After the hydrogen gas generated in step 04 is discharged to remove carbon monoxide (CO) through the aqueous shift reaction process and the selective oxidation reaction process in the selective oxidation reaction unit 210C, the fuel constituting the main power generation unit 12 is removed. Supply to the fuel electrode of the battery. As a result, a series of electrochemical reactions based on the chemical reaction formulas (6) and (7) occur in the main power generation unit 12, and predetermined power is generated.

In the power supply system having such a configuration, for example, fuel is supplied to the power generation module 10 via the I / F unit 30 in accordance with the above-described overall operations (initial operation, start operation, steady operation, and stop operation). When the pack 20 is connected, the leakage prevention function of the fuel supply valve 24A (fuel leakage prevention means) is released, and the fuel for power generation (for example, methanol) enclosed in the fuel enclosure 22A of the fuel pack 20 is released.
The FL is directly supplied to the fuel electrode of the fuel cell constituting the sub power supply unit 11 via the fuel delivery path 31 to generate electric power. This power is supplied as operation power to the operation control unit 13 mounted on the control chip 90, and the power supply system 1A is electrically connected to a device DVC (not shown) via a positive terminal and a negative terminal (not shown). ) Is supplied as drive power to the controller CNT incorporated therein.

When the operation control section 13 receives the information on the drive state of the load LD of the device DVC from the controller CNT, it outputs an operation control signal to the activation control section 15 and the power generated by the sub power supply section 11 is output. Is used to heat the thin-film heater 206 of the steam reforming reaction unit 210A, and to discharge a predetermined amount of fuel for power generation and water to the reforming reaction channel 2 of the steam reforming reaction unit 210A.
Discharge to 04. Thereby, the hydrogen gas (H ₂ ) and the carbon dioxide (CO ₂ ) are formed by the steam reforming reaction and the selective oxidation reaction shown in the chemical reaction formulas (3) to (5) described above.
Is generated, and the hydrogen gas (H ₂ ) is supplied to the fuel electrode of the fuel cell constituting the main power generation unit 12 to generate electric power. The electric power is supplied to the load LD of the device DVC as load driving electric power, and carbon dioxide is also supplied. The (CO ₂ ) is discharged to the outside of the power generation module 10 (power supply system 1A), for example, through a discharge hole 14d provided on the upper surface of the power generation module 10.

[0279] By-products (gas such as water vapor) generated in the power generation operation of the main power generation unit 12 are cooled and liquefied in the separation and recovery unit 16, whereby
The water is separated into water and other gas components, and only water is recovered and a part of the water is supplied to the steam reforming reaction unit 210A via the by-product supply path 16a. The fuel pack 20 is passed through the material collection path 32.
Irreversibly held in the collection holding space 22B.

Therefore, according to the power supply system 1A according to this specific configuration example, the load (device DV) driven without receiving fuel supply from outside the power supply system 1A.
Since it is possible to independently output appropriate power according to the driving state of C), power generation operation is performed with high energy conversion efficiency while realizing the same electrical characteristics and simple handling as a general-purpose chemical battery. In addition, it is possible to realize a portable power supply system that does not burden the environment at least with respect to dumping of the fuel pack 20 into the natural world, landfilling, and the like.

In this specific configuration example, a part of the by-product (water) generated and recovered in the main power generation unit 12, the steam reforming reaction unit 210A, and the like is supplied to the steam reforming reaction unit 210A. A power supply system that does not employ such a configuration has been described. However, in a power supply system to which such a configuration is not applied, water enclosed in a fuel pack 20 together with a fuel for power generation (such as methanol) is used to generate water in a steam reforming reaction unit 210A. Perform steam reforming reaction.

Therefore, in the case where the power generation operation is performed using the power generation fuel in which water is previously mixed and sealed, as shown in FIG. 41, the configuration of the steam reforming reaction unit 210A is as follows. On one side of the micro-substrate 201, a fuel discharge unit 202, a fuel vaporization unit 203, a reforming reaction channel 20
4 and a configuration in which a single flow path including only the hydrogen gas exhaust unit 205 is formed.

The power supply system according to the present invention is obtained by arbitrarily combining the above-described members of each configuration example, the power generation module of each embodiment, and the detachable structure of each embodiment. A plurality of at least one of the main power generation units may be provided in parallel, or a plurality of types may be provided in parallel,
With such a configuration, the drive of the main power generation unit is controlled in accordance with the activation state of the device, so that it is possible to suppress waste of fuel for power generation and improve the efficiency of use of energy resources.
It can be widely used in portable devices such as mobile phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), notebook personal computers, digital video cameras, and digital still cameras that use a removable general-purpose battery as a power source.

[0284]

As described above, according to the present invention,
A power generation module (power generation) that generates power by using a liquid or gas fuel for power generation or a specific component (for example, hydrogen) supplied from the fuel for power generation that is filled and sealed in a fuel sealed portion (fuel pack). In a portable power supply system including a fuel cell, the fuel filling section has a structure that can be connected to and detached from the power generation module, and the entire power supply system including the fuel filling section and the power generation module is A structure that can be arbitrarily connected to and separated from a load (device) driven by the supplied electric power, or the power generation module and the load are integrally configured, and only the fuel filling unit is connected to the load (power generation module). It has a structure that can be connected and detached.

Thus, when the fuel for power generation filled in the fuel filling part is exhausted or becomes low, the fuel filling part is removed from the power generation module or the load and replaced with a new fuel filling part, or the fuel filling part is filled. Since the fuel for power generation can be refilled by injecting the fuel into the power generation module, the power generation module can be continuously used, and the entire power supply system or the fuel filling part can be used as easily as a general-purpose chemical battery. Can be. In addition, since the fuel filling portion can be replaced or collected, the amount of disposal of the power supply system itself can be reduced.

Here, the fuel filling portion is made of a material which is converted into one or a plurality of simple substances or substances constituting the soil in the natural environment by natural environment or artificial treatment, for example, biodegradable by microorganisms or enzymes. Is composed of a material that has degradability such as photodegradability by light and light, and hydrolyticity by moisture. , By sunlight, etc., for example, decomposed into water and carbon dioxide, or
It is converted into a substance harmless to nature by artificial chemical treatment or incineration. Therefore, even if the fuel filling section is dumped or landfilled in the soil of the natural world, or if it is destroyed by an incinerator, it does not emit any harmful substances to the natural world, and the beauty of the natural environment can be maintained for a long time. Since the power supply system is not damaged, it is possible to provide a power supply system capable of greatly reducing the burden on the environment.

Further, in the above power supply system, only when the fuel filler is connected to the power generation module, the fuel for power generation sealed inside the fuel filler is supplied to the power generation module and the power generation operation starts independently. When the power supply system is connected to a load, power for driving the load is configured to be supplied.Therefore, the fuel is supplied to the power generation module without receiving supply of fuel or the like from outside the power supply system. The power to supply the load can be generated autonomously by only a simple operation of connecting the filling section, and when the fuel filling section is not connected to the power generation module, Fuel leakage can be prevented. Therefore, it is possible to provide a power supply system capable of performing safe and simple fuel supply and power generation operations.

The fuel filling section is configured so that it can be detached from the power generation module or the load, and injected and filled with the fuel for power generation in accordance with the remaining amount of the fuel for power generation, so that it can be replenished repeatedly. According to this, when the fuel for power generation filled in the fuel filling portion runs out or runs out, the fuel for power generation can be re-injected and filled, so that the fuel filling portion It can be reused (recycled), reducing the amount of waste generated,
The burden on the environment can be further reduced.

In the power supply system, as a specific configuration of the power generation module, a configuration including a fuel cell that generates electric power by an electrochemical reaction using power generation fuel supplied from a fuel filling section is applied. According to this, electric power can be generated using a fuel cell having extremely high energy use efficiency as compared with a general-purpose chemical cell, so that energy can be effectively used and existing fuel cells can be used. It is possible to reduce the size of the power supply system (the power generation module and the fuel filling portion) required to obtain the same electrical characteristics as the chemical battery of the above.

In this case, the fuel cell applied to the power generation module comprises: a fuel reformer for reforming the fuel for power generation to extract a specific component; a fuel electrode to which the specific component is supplied;
Preferably, the fuel cell is a fuel reforming type fuel cell including an air electrode to which oxygen in the air is supplied. According to the configuration using such a fuel reforming type fuel cell, by using a power generation fuel that is relatively easy to handle and obtain, the amount of the power generation fuel supplied to the fuel cell is controlled. Since it is possible to easily control the amount of electric power generated by the power generation module and to generate electric power with extremely high energy conversion efficiency from the chemical energy of the fuel for electric power generation and supply it to the load, fossil fuel It is possible to reduce the consumption of energy resources such as the above and achieve effective use.

In the above-described power supply system, as a configuration applicable to the power generation module, in addition to the above-described fuel cell, power can be generated with high energy conversion efficiency by using fuel for power generation, and the size can be reduced. A power generator having an arbitrary configuration can be appropriately selected from various power generators having a configuration that can be miniaturized and applied in accordance with the external shape, electric characteristics, and the like of the power supply system.

The fuel for power generation applied to the power supply system is at least one of a liquid fuel, a liquefied fuel, and a gaseous fuel containing hydrogen as a main component, or hydrogen, specifically, methanol. Or liquid fuels of alcohols such as ethanol, butanol, etc., liquefied fuels consisting of hydrocarbons such as dimethyl ether, isobutane, natural gas, or gaseous fuels such as hydrogen gas. It is possible to satisfactorily apply a gas that is in a gaseous state under predetermined environmental conditions, such as normal temperature and normal pressure, so that power can be generated with high energy conversion efficiency in the power generation operation of the power generation module. It is possible to make the by-products other than electric power generated by this power generation operation detoxifying or flame-retardant by relatively simple processing. Come, it is possible to significantly reduce the impact on the natural environment and the like.

Further, in the above-mentioned power supply system, it is also possible to apply a configuration provided with a remaining amount detecting means for detecting the remaining amount of the fuel for power generation sealed in the fuel filling portion. The remaining amount of the power supply can be monitored constantly or periodically, and when the remaining amount is low, a user of a device or the like driven by the power supply system can be notified in advance to that effect. In addition, by controlling the state of power generation in the power generation module according to the remaining amount of fuel for power generation detected by the remaining amount detection means, power having the same output voltage characteristics as a general-purpose chemical battery is applied to the load. Can be supplied.

In the power supply system, among the by-products generated during the power generation operation in the power generation module using the fuel for power generation, all or some of the by-products are recovered and retained. It is also possible to apply a configuration provided with a recovery means, and according to this, by-products are discharged or leaked into and out of the power supply system, thereby causing malfunction or deterioration of devices and the like driven by the power supply system, Pollution of the natural environment can be prevented. Here, by collecting the used fuel filling part, the by-products can be appropriately treated in a manner that does not impose a burden on the natural environment. Can be prevented.

Further, in the above-mentioned power supply system, a configuration having a fuel stabilizing means for stabilizing the state of the fuel for power generation sealed in the fuel sealing portion can be applied. If an abnormality occurs in the filling conditions in the unit, it is possible to shift the state of charging the power generation fuel to the stabilized state by performing operations such as stopping the supply of fuel for power generation to the power generation module or releasing the charging pressure. Therefore, safety and reliability in a power supply system using a fuel for power generation having flammability or combustibility can be satisfactorily ensured.

In the above power supply system, the physical outer shape of the combination of the fuel filler and the power supply module or the physical outer shape of the fuel filler alone is equivalent to any one of the general-purpose chemical batteries. It may be configured to have the shape and dimensions of, and according to this, the outer shape is compatible with a general-purpose chemical battery, so that the effect on the environment is reduced. ,And,
A power supply system with high energy conversion efficiency can be widely spread in the existing chemical battery market.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram showing an application form of a power supply system according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a basic configuration of a power supply system according to the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a first embodiment of a power generation module applied to the power supply system according to the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating a first configuration example of a sub power supply unit applicable to the power supply module according to the embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a second configuration example of a sub power supply unit applicable to the power supply module according to the embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating a third configuration example of a sub power supply unit applicable to the power supply module according to the embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a fourth configuration example of a sub power supply unit applicable to the power supply module according to the embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating a fifth configuration example of a sub power supply unit applicable to the power supply module according to the embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating a sixth configuration example of a sub power supply unit applicable to the power supply module according to the embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating a seventh configuration example of a sub power supply unit applicable to the power supply module according to the embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating an eighth configuration example of a sub power supply unit applicable to the power supply module according to the embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating a first configuration example of a main power generation unit applicable to the power supply module according to the embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a conceptual diagram showing a hydrogen generation process in a fuel reforming unit applied to a main power generation unit according to this configuration example.

FIG. 14 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating a second configuration example of a main power generation unit applicable to the power supply module according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a third configuration example of a main power generation unit applicable to the power supply module according to the embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a fourth configuration example of a main power generation unit applicable to the power supply module according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating a fifth configuration example of a main power generation unit applicable to the power supply module according to the embodiment.

FIG. 18 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating a sixth configuration example of a main power generation unit applicable to the power supply module according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing a main part configuration of another example of the embodiment of the power generation module applied to the power supply system according to the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a schematic operation of the power supply system.

FIG. 21 is a block diagram showing a second embodiment of the power generation module applied to the power supply system according to the present invention.

FIG. 22 is a block diagram showing a third embodiment of the power generation module applied to the power supply system according to the present invention.

FIG. 23 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a first configuration example of a sub power supply unit applicable to the power supply module according to the embodiment.

FIG. 24 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a second configuration example of a sub power supply unit applicable to the power supply module according to the embodiment.

FIG. 25 is a block diagram showing one embodiment of a by-product recovery means applicable to the power supply system according to the present invention.

FIG. 26 is a schematic diagram showing a by-product holding operation by the by-product recovery means according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 27 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of a remaining amount detecting means applicable to the power supply system according to the present invention.

FIG. 28 is a block diagram showing one embodiment of a fuel stabilizing means applicable to the power supply system according to the present invention.

FIG. 29 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a specific example of an outer shape applicable to the power supply system according to the present invention.

FIG. 30 is a conceptual diagram showing a correspondence relationship between an outer shape applied to the power supply system according to the present invention and an outer shape of a general-purpose chemical battery.

FIG. 31 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a first embodiment when the external shape of an existing chemical battery is applied to the power supply system according to the present invention.

FIG. 32 is a schematic view showing a structure for attaching and detaching a power generation module and a fuel pack in the power supply system according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 33 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a second embodiment when the external shape of an existing chemical battery is applied to the power supply system according to the present invention.

FIG. 34 is a schematic view showing a structure for attaching and detaching a power generation module and a fuel pack in the power supply system according to the embodiment.

FIG. 35 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a third embodiment when the external shape of an existing chemical battery is applied to the power supply system according to the present invention.

FIG. 36 is a schematic diagram showing a detachable structure of a power generation module and a fuel pack in the power supply system according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 37 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a fourth embodiment when the external shape of an existing chemical battery is applied to the power supply system according to the present invention.

FIG. 38 is a schematic diagram showing a detachable structure of a power generation module and a fuel pack in the power supply system according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 39 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a specific configuration example of the entire power supply system according to the present invention.

FIG. 40 is a schematic diagram showing one configuration example of a fuel reforming section applied to this specific configuration example.

FIG. 41 is a schematic diagram showing another configuration example of the fuel reforming section applied to this specific configuration example.

[Explanation of symbols]

 1, 1A power supply system 10, 10A to 10F power generation module 11, 11A to 11H sub power supply unit 12, 12A to 12F main power generation unit 13 operation control unit 14 output control unit 15 startup control unit 16 separation and collection unit 17 remaining amount detection unit 20 , 20A, 20D to 20F Fuel pack 21 Collection and holding unit 25 Supply control valve 26 Pressure control valve 30, 30D to 30F I / F unit DVC device LD Load CNT controller

──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification code FI Theme coat ゛ (Reference) H01M 8/10 H01M 8/10

Claims (24)

[Claims] 1. A power generation system for supplying power to an external device and detachably attached to the external device, comprising: a fuel filling section in which fuel for power generation is filled; and the power generation supplied from the fuel filling section. A power generation module that generates the electric power by using fuel for use, wherein the fuel filling section and the power generation module are configured to be detachable from each other. 2. The power supply system is configured such that a physical outer shape including the fuel filling portion and the power supply module has a shape and a size equivalent to one of various general-purpose chemical cells. The power supply system according to claim 1, wherein: 3. The power supply system according to claim 1, wherein a physical outer shape of the fuel filling section and the power supply module has the same shape and shape as one of the various general-purpose chemical batteries conforming to Japanese Industrial Standards. 3. The power supply system according to claim 2, wherein the power supply system has dimensions. 4. The fuel filling part according to claim 1, wherein the fuel filling part is made of a decomposable material that can be converted into one or more substances constituting soil in the natural world. Power system. 5. The power supply system according to claim 4, wherein the fuel filling portion is made of a material that can be decomposed at least under a natural environment. 6. The power supply system according to claim 4, wherein the fuel filling section is made of a biodegradable plastic that can be decomposed by microorganisms. 7. The power supply system is configured such that when the fuel filling section and the power generation module are coupled, the power generation fuel sealed in the fuel filling section is supplied to the power generation module. The power supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein 8. The power supply system according to claim 7, wherein the power generation module is configured to independently generate the electric power by coupling the fuel filling portion. 9. The power supply system according to claim 1, wherein the fuel filling section is configured to be capable of repeatedly filling and filling the fuel for power generation. 10. The power generation module according to claim 1, wherein the power generation module includes a fuel cell that generates the electric power by an electrochemical reaction using the fuel for power generation supplied from the fuel filling portion. 10. The power supply system according to any one of 9 above. 11. The fuel cell, comprising: a fuel reformer for reforming the fuel for power generation to extract a specific component; a fuel electrode to which the specific component is supplied; and a supply of oxygen in air. The power supply system according to claim 10, wherein the power supply system is a fuel reforming type fuel cell including: 12. The power generation module according to claim 1, further comprising: a power generation device that generates the electric power based on pressure energy generated by a combustion reaction of the power generation fuel supplied from the fuel filling section. Item 10. The power supply system according to any one of Items 1 to 9. 13. The power generation module according to claim 1, wherein a temperature difference between a high temperature caused by thermal energy generated by a combustion reaction using the fuel for power generation supplied from the fuel filling portion and a constant temperature in another region inside and outside the power supply system. The power supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising a power generation device that generates the electric power by thermoelectric conversion. 14. The power generation module includes a power generation device that generates the electric power based on an external force generation effect by a thermoacoustic effect using the fuel for power generation supplied from the fuel filling portion. The power supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein 15. The power generation module according to claim 1, wherein the power generation module includes a power generation device that generates the electric power by magnetohydrodynamic power generation using the fuel for power generation supplied from the fuel filling portion. The power supply system according to any one of the above. 16. The fuel according to claim 1, wherein the fuel for power generation is at least one of a liquid fuel, a liquefied fuel, and a gaseous fuel containing hydrogen as a main component or made of hydrogen. The power supply system according to any one of the above. 17. The power supply system according to claim 16, wherein the power generation fuel is an alcohol-based liquid fuel, and is vaporized under predetermined environmental conditions. 18. The power supply system according to claim 16, wherein the fuel for power generation is a liquefied fuel made of hydrocarbon and is vaporized under predetermined environmental conditions. 19. The power supply system according to claim 1, further comprising a remaining amount detecting unit for detecting a remaining amount of the fuel for power generation sealed in the fuel filling unit. Power supply system as described. 20. The power supply system includes a by-product recovery unit that recovers at least a part of components of a by-product generated when the power is generated in the power generation module. The power supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein 21. The power supply system according to claim 1, further comprising fuel stabilizing means for stabilizing the state of the fuel for power generation sealed in the fuel sealing portion.
20. The power supply system according to any one of claims 19 to 19. 22. The power supply system, wherein a physical outer shape of the fuel filling portion has a shape and a size equivalent to one of the various general-purpose chemical cells. The power supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 21. 23. A fuel filling section for supplying generated power to an external device and supplying fuel for power generation to a power generation module attachable to the external device. A fuel filling part characterized in that it is possible. 24. A power generation module for supplying electric power generated by power generation fuel supplied from a fuel filling section to an external device, wherein the power generating module is detachable from each of the external device and the fuel filling section. Characteristic power generation module.