JP2005011613A - Fuel cartridge - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a cartridge for fuel capable of easily collecting or defusing fuel existing inside at abolishment. <P>SOLUTION: The fuel cartridge 100 is provided with an elution means insertion part 2A, formed at a wall face of a fuel container part, into which a fuel elution means for eluting fuel in the fuel container part is inserted, and a removable sealing member 4 coating the elution means insertion part. The fuel cartridge 100 is further provided with the fuel container part, a fuel treatment part for giving fuel a defusing treatment, a retaining means retaining the fuel container part and the fuel treatment part in a separated state from each other, with the retention to be freely released, a guide means guiding the fuel container part and the fuel treatment part toward a direction more adjacent to each other, and a communicating means releasing the retention by the retaining means, drawing the fuel container part and the fuel treatment part near each other along the guide means to communicate them. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a fuel cartridge, and more particularly, to a fuel cartridge capable of easily recovering or detoxifying fuel remaining inside at the time of disposal.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Mobile devices such as laptop computers, notebook computers, mobile phones, and digital cameras are now widely used.
[0003]
Conventionally, as the power source of the form device, a primary battery such as an alkaline manganese battery and a secondary battery such as a nickel metal hydride battery or a lithium battery have been generally used.
[0004]
In recent years, there has been an increasing demand for using these portable devices for a longer period of time. However, the primary battery and the secondary battery have not been able to meet these requirements sufficiently.
[0005]
Therefore, a power supply system using a fuel cell has attracted attention as a power source that is lighter and smaller than these battery packs and can supply power for a long time.
[0006]
Such a power supply system includes, for example, a fuel sealing portion in which power generation fuel is sealed, and a power generation module that generates electric power from the power generation fuel supplied from the outer fuel sealing portion, and the fuel sealing portion and the power generation A power supply system in which modules are configured to be detachable from each other has been proposed (Patent Document 1).
[0007]
[Patent Document 1]
JP 2002-289111 A
[0008]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, even when the power supply system is used in a portable device, it is extremely difficult to completely use the power generation fuel sealed in the fuel sealing portion. It is considered that the fuel storage part is discarded in the state and replaced with a new one.
[0009]
Here, methanol is usually used as the fuel for power generation, that is, the fuel for the fuel cell.
[0010]
Therefore, if the fuel enclosing portion with a little power generation fuel remaining inside is discarded, the methanol remaining inside may be released into the natural world and cause environmental pollution.
[0011]
The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a fuel cartridge capable of easily recovering or detoxifying the fuel remaining inside at the time of disposal and preventing the fuel from being released to the natural world. And
[0012]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
The invention according to claim 1 is a fuel cartridge that includes a fuel storage portion that stores fuel for a fuel cell, and that supplies the fuel in the fuel storage portion to the fuel cell, and is provided on a wall surface of the fuel storage portion. The present invention relates to a fuel cartridge, comprising: a removal means insertion portion that is formed and into which a fuel extraction means for extracting fuel in the fuel storage portion is inserted; and a removable seal member that covers the extraction means insertion portion.
[0013]
In the fuel cartridge, after use, the fuel removal means is inserted from the extraction means insertion portion, and the fuel remaining in the fuel storage portion is extracted and discarded, so that the remaining fuel is released to the natural world. To prevent environmental pollution.
[0014]
Further, when the fuel is not extracted, the extraction means insertion portion is protected by the seal member. Therefore, the fuel cartridge or the portable device is attached to the extraction means insertion portion by an external force during use. Can be prevented from being accidentally destroyed and fuel leaking.
[0015]
Examples of the fuel extraction means include a syringe and a fuel extraction pump. However, the fuel extraction means is not limited to the syringe and the fuel extraction pump as long as the fuel remaining in the fuel storage portion can be extracted. An enema with a needle attached to it can also be used.
[0016]
The extraction means insertion portion is formed on the wall surface of the fuel storage portion and is inserted into the opening portion formed on the wall surface of the fuel storage portion and a thin portion described later formed so that the injection needle of the syringe can be penetrated. A fixed rubber stopper and a covering member that covers the opening and the opening can be provided.
[0017]
Examples of the fuel include liquid fuels usually used in fuel cells, and specific examples include lower alcohols such as methanol and ethanol.
[0018]
The invention according to claim 2 relates to a fuel cartridge in which the extraction means insertion portion has a thin portion that is thinner than other portions of the wall surface of the fuel storage portion.
[0019]
Since the thin part is thinner than the other part of the wall of the fuel storage part, for example, the injection needle of a syringe can be easily penetrated. In addition, when the fuel storage portion is formed by injection molding, a convex portion is provided in a portion corresponding to the thin portion of the mold so that it is thinner than the surrounding portion of the wall of the fuel storage portion. This makes it easy to form the thin portion.
[0020]
The invention according to claim 3 relates to a fuel cartridge in which the extraction means insertion portion has an opening provided on a wall surface of the fuel storage portion and a covering member that covers the opening.
[0021]
In the fuel cartridge, the fuel removing means is removed by removing the covering member or by penetrating the covering member with a hollow needle-like member such as an injection needle provided in the fuel extracting means. It can be inserted into the fuel storage part from the insertion part.
[0022]
Therefore, the fuel extraction means can be inserted very easily.
[0023]
According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a fuel cartridge for supplying fuel to a fuel cell, wherein the fuel is accommodated and a fuel accommodating portion having an opening on a wall surface, and the opening in the fuel accommodating portion. And a removable seal member for covering the fuel cartridge.
[0024]
In the fuel cartridge, at the time of disposal, the fuel in the fuel storage section can be extracted by inserting the fuel extraction means from the opening that is opened by removing the seal member. Therefore, it is possible to eliminate anxiety that the fuel remaining in the fuel storage part leaks to the natural world and causes environmental pollution.
[0025]
A fifth aspect of the present invention includes a fuel storage portion that stores fuel for a fuel cell and supplies the fuel to the fuel cell, and the fuel storage portion includes a low-temperature combustion that burns the fuel at a low temperature. The present invention relates to a fuel cartridge characterized in that a catalyst is accommodated, an air hole for communicating the fuel accommodating portion with outside air is provided, and the air hole is further closed by a removable seal member.
[0026]
In the fuel cartridge, after use, by removing the seal member and opening the opening, air flows in from the opening, and the fuel remaining by the action of the low-temperature combustion catalyst housed inside the fuel cartridge Is burned at a low temperature and decomposed into water and carbon dioxide. In particular, when the fuel is methanol and the low-temperature combustion catalyst is a noble metal such as platinum or palladium, it is preferable because it can be burned at room temperature.
[0027]
When the fuel is combusted, the fuel cartridge may be discarded as it is, or the internal low-temperature combustion catalyst may be recovered and discarded.
[0028]
The low-temperature combustion catalyst may be in the form of a lump, granule, or powder, but it is preferable that the low-temperature combustion catalyst is supported on a metal or ceramic carrier because the low-temperature combustion catalyst can be easily recovered and regenerated.
[0029]
Examples of the low temperature combustion catalyst include the noble metal, but the low temperature combustion catalyst is not limited to the noble metal as long as the fuel can be combusted at a low temperature.
[0030]
The invention according to claim 6 is a fuel cartridge for supplying fuel to a fuel cell, wherein the fuel containing portion for containing the fuel, a fuel processing portion for detoxifying the fuel, the fuel containing portion, Holding the fuel processing part in a state of being separated from each other, holding means formed so that the holding can be released, guide means for guiding the fuel storage part and the fuel processing part in directions close to each other, and The present invention relates to a fuel cartridge comprising communication means for communicating the fuel storage part and the fuel processing part by bringing them close to each other along the guide means in a state where the holding by the holding means is released.
[0031]
In the fuel cartridge, at the time of disposal, when the holding by the holding unit is released and the fuel storage unit and the fuel processing unit are brought close to each other along the guide unit, the communication unit and the fuel storage unit The fuel processing unit communicates. Therefore, the fuel remaining in the fuel storage part flows into the fuel processing part and is detoxified in the fuel processing part.
[0032]
As the communication means, in addition to a needle-like member, which will be described later, the fuel storage part and the fuel processing part are in a closed state, and the fuel storage part and the fuel processing part are brought close to each other. And a flow path having a valve body opened by the above.
[0033]
Examples of the detoxification treatment include low temperature combustion, decomposition reaction into hydrogen and carbon monoxide, and the like. Other examples include solidification of fuel, solidification of fuel, and loss of fluidity.
[0034]
The invention according to claim 7 relates to a fuel cartridge in which the holding means is a removable spacer provided between the fuel storage portion and the fuel processing portion.
[0035]
In the fuel cartridge, the fuel storage portion and the fuel processing portion are held in a state of being separated from each other by the spacer. When the spacer is removed, there is no separation between the fuel storage part and the fuel processing part. Therefore, when the fuel storage part and the fuel processing part are brought close to each other along the guide means, the communication means The two communicate with each other.
[0036]
The said spacer can be fixed to the back surface of a sheet-like sealing member. When the gap between the fuel storage unit and the fuel processing unit is sealed with the seal member, the spacer is positioned between the fuel storage unit and the fuel processing unit. The processing units are held apart from each other.
[0037]
According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a hollow needle in which the communication means is provided on a surface of the fuel processing section facing the fuel storage section so as to extend toward the fuel storage section. The present invention relates to a fuel cartridge having a cylindrical member.
[0038]
In the fuel cartridge, when the fuel processing unit and the fuel storage unit are brought close to each other, the needle-like member penetrates the wall surface of the fuel storage unit, so that the fuel processing unit and the fuel storage unit communicate with each other. Is done.
[0039]
In the fuel cartridge, since the fuel in the fuel processing portion does not flow out to the outside unless the needle-like member penetrates the wall surface of the fuel storage portion, it is in use unless the holding in the holding means is released. There will be no fuel leakage.
[0040]
According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, at least a part of the side where the needle-like member penetrates in the fuel storage portion is formed to be thinner and thinner than other wall surfaces of the fuel storage portion. The present invention relates to a fuel cartridge.
[0041]
In the fuel cartridge, since the portion of the wall surface of the fuel housing portion through which the needle-like member penetrates is formed in a thin wall shape, the needle-like member is caused to penetrate the wall surface of the fuel housing portion with less force. Can do.
[0042]
The invention according to claim 10 relates to a fuel cartridge in which a fuel absorbent that absorbs the fuel is accommodated in the fuel processing section.
[0043]
In the fuel cartridge, the fuel in the fuel storage portion is absorbed and held in the fuel absorbent stored in the fuel processing portion, thereby preventing the fuel from flowing out.
[0044]
The invention described in claim 11 relates to a fuel cartridge in which a fuel coagulant for coagulating the fuel is accommodated in the fuel processing section.
[0045]
In the fuel cartridge, the fuel in the fuel container is solidified by contacting with the coagulant stored in the fuel processor, thereby preventing the fuel from flowing out.
[0046]
The invention described in claim 12 relates to a fuel cartridge in which a decomposition catalyst for decomposing the fuel is accommodated in the fuel processing section.
[0047]
In the fuel cartridge, the fuel in the fuel storage unit is decomposed and detoxified by the decomposition catalyst in the fuel processing unit.
[0048]
Examples of the cracking catalyst include a low-temperature combustion catalyst, and a partial oxidation catalyst that decomposes the methanol into hydrogen and carbon monoxide by partially oxidizing the methanol at a low temperature when the fuel is methanol.
[0049]
The invention according to claim 13 relates to a fuel cartridge, wherein the cracking catalyst is a low-temperature combustion catalyst for burning the fuel at a low temperature.
[0050]
In the fuel cartridge, the fuel in the fuel storage unit is burnt at a low temperature by the low temperature catalyst in the fuel processing unit, and decomposed into carbon dioxide gas and water to be rendered harmless.
[0051]
The invention according to claim 14 relates to a fuel cartridge in which the fuel processing section has an air hole that opens when the holding by the holding means is released.
[0052]
The fuel cartridge is an example of a fuel cartridge in which a low-temperature combustion catalyst or a decomposition catalyst is accommodated in a fuel processing section and has an air hole that opens when the holding means releases the holding.
[0053]
In the fuel cartridge, since the air hole is in a closed state until the holding by the holding means is released, the low-temperature combustion catalyst or the decomposition catalyst in the fuel processing section does not deteriorate due to contact with air. On the other hand, when the holding by the holding means is released, the air hole opens, so that the fuel flowing into the fuel processing unit is in contact with fresh air in a state where the fuel storage unit and the fuel processing unit are in communication with each other. The combustion reaction or decomposition is performed by a decomposition catalyst such as a low-temperature combustion catalyst housed in the fuel processing unit. Therefore, a decomposition reaction such as a combustion reaction proceeds efficiently in a short time.
[0054]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
1. Embodiment 1
The configuration of the fuel cartridge 100 according to Embodiment 1 is shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.
[0055]
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the fuel cartridge 100 includes a cylindrical fuel storage portion 2 that stores methanol as fuel.
[0056]
A thin portion 2A is provided at the center of one end surface of the fuel storage portion 2, and the fuel cartridge 100 is mounted on the other end surface when the fuel cartridge 100 is attached to a portable device using the fuel cell as a power source or the fuel cell itself. A connecting portion 2B that is connected to the fuel supply passage of the fuel cell and supplies methanol is formed. The thin portion 2A corresponds to the extraction means insertion portion provided in the fuel cartridge according to the present invention.
[0057]
A substantially circular sealing member 4 is detachably attached to the end surface of the fuel accommodating portion 2 on the side where the thin portion 2A is provided. The sealing member 4 is a flexible film-like or sheet-like member. A tongue-like member 4A is provided from the outer periphery of the seal member 4 to the outside along the radial direction. In a state where the seal member 4 is adhered to the end surface of the fuel storage portion 2, the tongue-like member 4 </ b> A is bent along the side surface of the fuel storage portion 2.
[0058]
The thin portion 2A is formed in a circular shape. The diameter of the thin portion 2A is not particularly limited as long as it is smaller than the diameter of the fuel storage portion 2, but is preferably a diameter that can be inserted into an injection needle 202 of a syringe 200 described later, specifically, 1 to 5 mm. Is preferable, and a range of 1 to 3 mm is particularly preferable. If the thin portion 2A is formed to have a diameter in the above range, the thin portion 2A can be formed of the methanol stored in the fuel storage portion 2 even when the thin portion 2A is formed thin enough to be easily penetrated by the injection needle 202 of the syringe 200. This is preferable because it does not rupture due to the inner thickness.
[0059]
The operation of the fuel cartridge 100 according to Embodiment 1 will be described below.
[0060]
When the fuel inside the fuel storage unit 2 is almost completely used and the fuel cartridge 100 is to be discarded, the tongue-like member 4A is raised, and the seal member is opened from the end surface of the fuel storage unit 2 as shown by a two-dot chain line in FIG. 4 is peeled off. Next, as shown in FIG. 3, the injection needle 202 of the syringe 200 is pierced into the thin portion 2 </ b> A to penetrate the tip portion. Then, the methanol remaining in the fuel storage unit 2 is sucked out by the syringe 200 and transferred to an appropriate recovery container to recover the remaining methanol.
[0061]
The fuel cartridge according to the first embodiment is an example in which the thin portion 2A is formed as the extraction means insertion portion in the fuel cartridge according to the present invention. The thin part 2A can be formed so that the injection needle 202 can be easily penetrated by appropriately selecting the thickness, although it does not rupture at about the vapor pressure of methanol inside the fuel storage part 2.
[0062]
Moreover, when forming the fuel accommodating part 2 by injection molding, since the thin part 2A can be formed by providing a convex part in the part corresponding to the thin part 2A of a metal mold | die, formation is easy.
[0063]
Further, while the fuel cartridge 100 is being used, the thin portion 2A is covered with the seal member 4, so that the thin portion 2A is inadvertently inadvertent, such as when a sharp object hits the thin portion 2A. Even when an external force is applied, the thin portion 2A can be protected from the external force.
[0064]
2. Embodiment 2
FIG. 4 shows the configuration of the fuel cartridge 102 according to the second embodiment. 4A shows the fuel cartridge 102 as viewed obliquely from above, and FIG. 4B shows a cross section of the fuel cartridge 102 on the side where a thin portion 12A described later is provided.
[0065]
As shown in FIG. 4, the fuel cartridge 102 has a cylindrical fuel storage portion 12 that stores methanol as fuel. The central portion of one end surface of the fuel storage portion 12 is recessed in a circular shape to form a thin portion 12A, and the fuel cartridge 102 is connected to the portable device using the fuel cell as a power source or the fuel cell itself on the other end surface. Sometimes, a connecting portion 12B is formed which is connected to the fuel supply channel of the fuel cell and supplies methanol. The thin portion 12A corresponds to the extraction means insertion portion provided in the fuel cartridge according to the present invention.
[0066]
A substantially circular sealing member 14 is detachably attached to the end surface of the fuel accommodating portion 12 on the side where the thin portion 12A is provided. The sealing member 14 can be formed into a flexible film or sheet.
[0067]
A tongue-like member 14A is provided from the outer periphery of the seal member 14 toward the outside along the radial direction. In a state where the seal member 14 is adhered to the end surface of the fuel storage portion 12, the tongue-shaped member 14 </ b> A is bent along the side surface of the fuel storage portion 12.
[0068]
A recessed portion 12B is further formed at the center of the thin portion 12A, and the wall surface of the fuel storage portion 12 is formed thinner at the recessed portion 12B.
[0069]
On the other hand, a circular projecting portion 14B that fits into the thin portion 12A is formed at the central portion of the seal member 14 on the side that is adhered to the fuel housing portion 12.
[0070]
The diameter of the recessed portion 12B is preferably such a diameter that the injection needle 202 of the syringe 200 can be stabbed, and specifically, a range of 1 to 5 mm is preferable, and a range of 1 to 3 mm is particularly preferable. If the concave portion 12B is formed to have a diameter within the above range, even if the concave portion 12B is formed thin enough to be easily penetrated by the injection needle 202, it is ruptured by the inner thickness of the methanol stored in the fuel storage portion 2. It is preferable because there is nothing to do.
[0071]
The operation of the fuel cartridge 102 according to the second embodiment will be described below.
[0072]
When the methanol in the fuel storage unit 12 is almost used up and the fuel cartridge 100 is to be discarded, the tongue-like member 14A is raised, and as shown by a two-dot chain line in FIG. The sealing member 14 is peeled off from the end face. Then, as shown in FIG. 5, the injection needle 202 of the syringe 200 is pierced into the recessed portion 12 </ b> B to penetrate the tip portion. Then, the methanol remaining in the fuel storage unit 12 is sucked out by the syringe 200 and transferred to an appropriate recovery container to recover the residual methanol.
[0073]
The second embodiment is an example in which the depressed portion 12B is further formed in the central portion of the thin portion 12A, but instead of forming the concave portion 12B, a conical shape is formed in the central portion of the concave portion 12A as shown in FIG. A recessed portion 12C may be provided.
[0074]
In the fuel cartridge 102 according to the second embodiment, since the recessed portion 12B has a thinner wall than the peripheral portion of the recessed portion 12B in the thin portion 12A, the injection needle 202 can be easily penetrated. Further, since the recessed portion 12B has a smaller area than the thin portion 12A, even when the recessed portion 12B is formed to be particularly thin so that the injection needle 202 can be easily penetrated, the fuel storage portion 12 It is difficult to inadvertently rupture due to the vapor pressure of methanol contained in the tank.
[0075]
Further, since the seal portion 14 is fitted to the thin portion 12A at the protruding portion 14B, the seal member 14 is not dropped from the thin portion 12A and the thin portion 12A is not exposed while the cartridge 102 is used.
[0076]
The fuel cartridge 102 according to the second embodiment has the same features as the fuel cartridge according to the first embodiment.
[0077]
3. Embodiment 3
FIG. 7 shows the configuration of the fuel cartridge 104 according to the third embodiment. 7A shows the fuel cartridge 104 as viewed obliquely from above, and FIG. 7B shows a cross section of the fuel cartridge 104 on the side where a later-described injection needle insertion portion 26 is provided.
[0078]
As shown in FIG. 7, the fuel cartridge 104 has a cylindrical fuel storage portion 22 that stores methanol as fuel.
[0079]
The injection needle insertion portion 26 into which the injection needle 202 is inserted is provided at the center of one end surface of the fuel storage portion 22, and the fuel cartridge 104 serves as a power source on the other end surface on the other end surface. When connected to the portable device or the fuel cell itself, a connecting portion 28 is formed which is connected to the fuel supply passage of the fuel cell and supplies methanol. The injection needle insertion portion 26 corresponds to the extraction means insertion portion provided in the fuel cartridge according to the present invention.
[0080]
The injection needle insertion portion 26 includes a cylindrical main body 26B and a rubber plug 26A inserted into the main body 26B. At both ends of the cylindrical main body 26B, annular protrusions 26C for holding the rubber plug 26A are provided so as not to drop off when the injection needle 202 is inserted into the rubber plug 26A. As the rubber plug 26A, the same one as that normally used as a rubber plug for an ampule bag for injection can be used.
[0081]
A substantially circular seal member 24 is detachably attached to the end surface of the fuel storage portion 22 on the side where the injection needle insertion portion 26 is formed. The seal member 24 is the same as the seal member 4 in the fuel cartridge according to the first embodiment, and the same is true in that a tongue-like member 24A is provided on the outer peripheral portion.
[0082]
The operation of the fuel cartridge 104 according to the third embodiment will be described below.
[0083]
When the methanol inside the fuel storage unit 22 is almost completely used, the seal member 24 is first peeled in the same manner as the fuel cartridge according to the first and second embodiments. Next, as shown in FIG. 8, the injection needle 202 of the syringe 200 is inserted into the rubber plug 26A to penetrate the tip, and the methanol remaining inside the fuel storage portion 32 is sucked out by the syringe 200 and transferred to an appropriate collection container. .
[0084]
In the fuel cartridge 104 according to the third embodiment, the injection needle 202 is inserted into the fuel storage portion 22 by inserting the injection needle 202 into the rubber plug 26 </ b> C in the injection needle insertion portion 26. Therefore, the injection needle 202 can be inserted more easily than the fuel cartridges according to the first and second embodiments in which the thin portion is formed as the extraction means insertion portion.
[0085]
Further, when the injection needle 202 is inserted into the rubber plug 26A, a hole is opened. After the injection needle 202 is removed, the hole is closed by the rubber elasticity of the rubber plug 26A, and the injection needle insertion portion 26 is sealed. Therefore, even if methanol remains in the fuel storage portion 22 after the methanol is sucked out by the syringe 200, the methanol does not leak outside through the injection needle insertion portion 26.
[0086]
4). Embodiment 4
The configuration of the fuel cartridge 106 according to Embodiment 4 is shown in FIGS. As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the fuel cartridge 106 includes a cylindrical fuel storage portion 32 that stores methanol as a fuel.
[0087]
An opening 32A into which the injection needle 202 is inserted is provided at the center of one end face of the fuel storage part 32, and the fuel cartridge 106 is carried on the other end face by using the fuel cell as a power source. When connected to the device or the fuel cell itself, a connection portion 32B is formed which is connected to the fuel supply channel of the fuel cell and supplies methanol. The opening 32A corresponds to the extraction means insertion portion provided in the fuel cartridge according to the present invention. The opening 32 </ b> A is formed in a conical surface shape that decreases from the outside to the inside of the fuel storage portion 32.
[0088]
A substantially circular sealing member 34 is detachably attached to the end surface of the fuel accommodating portion 32 on the side where the opening 32A is formed. The seal member 34 is a flexible sheet-like or film-like member similar to the seal member 4 in the fuel cartridge according to the first embodiment, and a tongue-like member 34A is provided on the outer peripheral portion. A protrusion 34B that fits into the opening 32A is formed at the center of the surface of the seal member 34 that is attached to the fuel storage portion 32. The protruding portion 34B is formed in a truncated cone shape that decreases from the bottom surface toward the top surface.
[0089]
Another example of the fuel cartridge 106 is shown in FIGS. As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the opening 32 </ b> A of the fuel storage portion 32 of the fuel cartridge 106 is formed in a cylindrical surface shape having the same inner diameter of the inlet and the outlet. A recessed portion 32C communicating with the opening 32A is formed on a single surface of the fuel storage portion 32 on the side where the opening 32A is provided.
[0090]
A projecting portion 34B that fits into the recessed portion 32C is provided at the center of the surface of the sealing member 34 that is attached to the fuel housing portion 32.
[0091]
The operation of the fuel cartridge 106 according to Embodiment 4 will be described below.
[0092]
When the methanol inside the fuel storage portion 32 is almost used, the seal member 34 is peeled off to open the opening 32A.
[0093]
Next, the injection needle 202 of the syringe 200 is inserted into the opening 32A, and the methanol remaining in the fuel storage portion 32 is sucked out by the syringe 200 and transferred to an appropriate collection container.
[0094]
In the fuel cartridge 106 according to the fourth embodiment, since the injection needle 202 can be inserted from the opening 32A provided on the end surface of the fuel storage portion 32, the insertion of the injection needle 202 is very easy. Further, if the opening 32A is sufficiently large, it is not necessary to use the syringe 200 to remove the methanol in the fuel storage portion 32.
[0095]
5. Embodiment 5
The configuration of the fuel cartridge 108 according to Embodiment 5 is shown in FIGS. 13 and 14.
[0096]
13 and 14, (A) shows the fuel cartridge 108 as viewed obliquely from above, and (B) shows a partial cross section of the central portion of the fuel cartridge 108. FIG.
[0097]
As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the fuel cartridge 108 includes a cylindrical fuel storage unit 3 that stores methanol, and a fuel processing unit 5 that has the same diameter as the fuel storage unit 3 and is concentrically disposed. And a guide portion 7 provided between the fuel storage portion 3 and the fuel processing portion 5. The space between the fuel storage unit 3 and the fuel processing unit 5 is covered from the outside by a seal member 9. The guide portion 7 and the seal member 9 correspond to guide means and holding means provided in the fuel cartridge of the present invention, respectively.
[0098]
The fuel processing unit 5 includes a methanol absorbent that absorbs methanol, a methanol coagulant that solidifies methanol, a methanol decomposition catalyst that decomposes methanol into carbon monoxide and hydrogen, and a low-temperature combustion catalyst that combusts methanol at low temperatures. One or more types are inserted.
[0099]
In FIG. 13 and FIG. 14, 3B is a connection for supplying methanol when connected to a fuel supply channel of the fuel cell when the fuel cartridge 108 is connected to a portable device that uses the fuel cell as a power source or the fuel cell itself. Indicates the part.
[0100]
As shown in FIG. 13 and FIG. 14B, the guide portion 7 is formed from the central portion of the end surface 3 </ b> A on the side facing the fuel processing portion 5 in the fuel storage portion 3 toward the fuel processing portion 5. A projection 7A projecting in a cylindrical shape along the axis 3 and the axis of the fuel processing unit 5 from the center of the end surface 5A of the fuel processing unit 5 facing the fuel storage 3 toward the fuel storage 3 And a protruding portion 7B protruding in a cylindrical shape. The protrusion 7A is fitted and slid inside the protrusion 7B, so that the fuel storage part 3 and the fuel processing part 5 are guided in directions close to each other.
[0101]
A pair of hollow needle-like members 11A and 11B are erected on the end surface 5A of the fuel processing unit 5 toward the fuel storage unit 3 so as to sandwich the protrusion 7B therebetween. Each of the needle-like members 11A and 11B is an injection needle-like member formed so as to communicate with the inside of the fuel processing unit 5, and corresponds to a communicating means in the fuel cartridge according to the present invention.
[0102]
The seal member 9 is attached to the fuel accommodating portion 3 and the fuel processing portion 5 of the seal portion 9A, and the seal portion 9A is detachably pasted between the fuel accommodating portion 3 and the fuel processing portion 5. A spacer portion 9B that is a protruding portion or a thick portion provided in the direction of winding the seal portion 9A, in other words, along the circumferential direction is provided at the center of the surface. A step is formed between the seal portion 9A and the spacer portion 9B. 13 shows an example in which the seal portion 9A is formed in a relatively thin and flexible film shape or thin sheet shape, and FIG. 14 shows an example in which the seal portion 9A is a thick sheet shape having relatively high rigidity. Indicates. In any seal member 9, the spacer portion 9 </ b> B is preferably formed to have a length that is equal to or slightly shorter than the circumferential length of the fuel storage portion 3 and the fuel processing portion 5. On the other hand, it is preferable that the seal portion 9A is formed to have a length longer than the peripheral length, and the end portions overlap when wound around the fuel storage portion 3 and the fuel processing portion 5. Then, a semicircular or rounded square tab portion 9C can be formed on one of the end portions.
[0103]
When the seal member 9 is mounted, as shown in FIG. 13 and FIG. 14B, the spacer portion 9B is inserted between the fuel storage portion 3 and the fuel processing portion 5, and the tab portion 9C is outside. The seal portion 9A is wound so as to be positioned at and attached. At this time, it is preferable that the tab portion 9 </ b> C is not attached to the outer peripheral surface of the seal member 9.
[0104]
In the state where the seal member 9 is mounted, the spacer portion 9B is inserted between the fuel storage portion 3 and the fuel processing portion 5, so that the fuel storage portion 3 and the fuel processing portion 5 are brought close to each other. Even if the external force in the direction acts on the fuel cartridge 108, the fuel storage unit 3 and the fuel processing unit 5 are held apart from each other. Therefore, while the fuel cartridge 108 is in use, unless the seal member 9 is peeled off, the needle-like member 11A and the needle-like member 11B break through the end surface of the fuel storage portion 5, and the methanol in the fuel storage portion 3 is converted into the fuel processing chamber 5. Never leak out.
[0105]
When the methanol stored in the fuel storage unit 3 is almost used, the fuel cartridge 108 is removed from the portable device or the fuel cell, the seal member 9 is removed, and the fuel storage unit 3 and the fuel processing unit 5 are brought close to each other. Press on. Since the fuel storage unit 3 and the fuel processing unit 5 are guided by the guide unit 7 in directions close to each other, the needle-like member 11A and the needle-like member 11B penetrate through the end face of the fuel storage unit 3. Thereby, the fuel storage unit 3 and the fuel processing unit 5 communicate with each other, and the methanol in the fuel storage unit 3 moves to the fuel processing unit 5 and is rendered harmless by adsorption, solidification, decomposition, or low temperature combustion.
[0106]
In the state where the seal member 9 is mounted, the fuel cartridge 108 forms an integral columnar body as a whole with the fuel storage unit 3, the fuel processing unit 5, and the seal member 9. Therefore, it is convenient for mounting on a fuel cell or a portable device.
[0107]
6). Embodiment 6
FIG. 15 shows the configuration of the fuel cartridge 110 according to the sixth embodiment.
[0108]
As shown in FIG. 15, the fuel cartridge 110 includes a cylindrical fuel storage unit 13 in which methanol is stored, a fuel processing unit 15 in which a low-temperature combustion catalyst is filled, a fuel storage unit 13, and a fuel process. And a seal member 19 positioned between the portion 15 and the portion 15.
[0109]
The fuel storage unit 13 and the fuel processing unit 15 have the same outer diameter and are disposed so as to face each other at one end surface. A needle-like member 16 formed in the shape of an injection needle is provided along the axis of the fuel storage unit 13 at the center of the end surface 13A on the side of the fuel storage unit 13 facing the fuel processing unit 15. A cylindrical needle-like member guide 17 into which the needle-like member 16 is inserted stands at the center of the end surface 15A facing the fuel containing portion 13 in the fuel processing portion 15 toward the fuel containing portion 13. It is installed. Both the needle-like member 16 and the needle-like member guide 17 are erected along the axis of the fuel storage portion 13 and the fuel processing portion 15.
[0110]
The needle-like member 16 has a tip portion inserted inside the needle-like member guide 17, but does not contact the lower part of the needle-like member guide 17. By fitting the needle-like member 16 to the needle-like member guide 17, the fuel storage portion 13 and the fuel processing portion 15 are held concentrically.
[0111]
In the fuel cartridge 110, the seal member 19 corresponds to the holding means in the fuel cartridge according to the present invention, and the needle-like member 16 and the needle-like member guide 17 correspond to the guide means in the fuel cartridge. The needle-like member 16 also corresponds to communication means in the fuel cartridge.
[0112]
A thin portion 15 </ b> B is provided at a portion of the end surface 15 </ b> A of the fuel processing portion 15 where the needle-like member guide 17 is provided.
[0113]
Further, an air hole 15 </ b> C is provided in the vicinity of the end surface 15 </ b> A on the side surface of the fuel processing unit 15.
[0114]
As shown in FIG. 15, the seal member 19 is provided along the circumferential direction of the fuel storage unit 13 and the fuel processing unit 15, and is detachably attached across the fuel storage unit 13 and the fuel processing unit 15. The direction in which the seal portion 19A is wound around the central portion of the flexible sheet-like or film-like seal portion 19A and the surface of the seal portion 19A that is attached to the fuel storage portion 13 and the fuel processing portion 15 And a spacer portion 19B which is a thick portion provided along the line.
[0115]
The seal portion 19 is formed to have a width that can be stuck across the fuel storage portion 13 and the fuel processing portion 15 and can further close the air hole 15C. The spacer portion 19 </ b> B is formed to have such a width that the tip of the needle-like member 16 does not come into contact with the lower portion of the needle-like member guide 17 when inserted between the fuel storage portion 13 and the fuel processing portion 15. Yes.
[0116]
In the state where the seal member 19 is mounted, the spacer portion 19B is inserted between the fuel storage portion 13 and the fuel processing portion 15, so that the fuel storage portion 13 and the fuel processing portion 15 are brought close to each other. Even if an external force in the direction acts on the fuel cartridge 110, the fuel storage unit 13 and the fuel processing unit 15 are held apart from each other. Therefore, when the fuel cartridge 110 is in use, unless the seal member 19 is peeled off, the needle-like member 17 breaks through the thin portion of the fuel storage portion 15 and methanol in the fuel storage portion 13 leaks into the fuel processing chamber 15. There is no.
[0117]
When the methanol stored in the fuel storage unit 13 is almost used, the fuel cartridge 110 is removed from the portable device or the fuel cell, the seal member 19 is removed, and the fuel storage unit 13 and the fuel processing unit 15 are brought close to each other. Press on. Since the fuel storage portion 13 and the fuel processing portion 15 are guided in directions close to each other by the needle-like member 16 and the needle-like member guide 17, the needle-like member 16 breaks through the thin portion 15B of the fuel storage portion 13. To penetrate. As a result, the fuel storage unit 13 and the fuel processing unit 15 communicate with each other, the methanol in the fuel storage unit 13 moves to the fuel processing unit 15 and is burned at a low temperature by the low-temperature combustion catalyst in the fuel processing unit 15, and is harmless. It becomes. Here, since fresh outside air flows into the fuel processing section 15 from the air holes 15C, low-temperature combustion is effectively performed.
[0118]
In the fuel cartridge 110 according to the sixth embodiment, the needle-like member 16 and the needle-like member guide 17 cooperate to function as guide means in the fuel cartridge of the present invention. In addition, the structure of the guide means can be further simplified.
[0119]
7. Embodiment 7
FIG. 16 shows the configuration of the fuel cartridge 112 according to the seventh embodiment.
[0120]
As shown in FIG. 16, the fuel cartridge 112 is concentric with a cylindrical fuel storage portion 23 in which methanol is stored, and an interlocking portion 23 </ b> A that is a reduced diameter portion formed at one end of the fuel storage portion 23. And a substantially cylindrical fuel processing section 25 fitted in a shape.
[0121]
An end portion of the fuel processing unit 25 that is fitted to the interlocking portion 23A is formed in a cylindrical shape, and an interlocking portion 25A that is fitted to the interlocking portion 23A from the outside is formed.
[0122]
A protruding portion 23B is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the interlocking portion 23A so as to protrude in a ridge shape along the circumferential direction. On the other hand, the inner peripheral surface of the interlocking portion 25A is formed with a recessed portion 25B that fits into the protruding portion 23B along the circumferential direction.
[0123]
A needle-like member 27 formed in an injection needle shape toward the interlocking portion 23A is provided along the axis of the fuel processing portion 25 at the center of the bottom surface 25C of the interlocking portion 25A in the fuel processing portion 25. .
[0124]
On the other hand, a recessed portion 26 into which the needle-like member 27 is inserted is provided on the end surface 23C of the interlocking portion 23A along the axis of the fuel storage portion 23.
[0125]
As shown in FIG. 16, the fuel storage unit 23 and the fuel processing unit 25 are configured such that the interlocking portion 23A is fitted inside the interlocking portion 25A, and the protruding portion 23B is fitted into the recessed portion 25B. The tip of the cylindrical member 27 is held in contact with the bottom of the recess 26.
[0126]
The interlocking portion 23A, the interlocking portion 25A, the protruding portion 23B, and the recessed portion 25B correspond to the holding means provided in the surface material cartridge according to the present invention, and the needle-like member 27 and the recessed portion 26 are communicating means in the fuel cartridge. It corresponds to.
[0127]
In the fuel cartridge 112, when the methanol in the fuel storage unit 23 is almost used, the fuel processing unit 25 is strongly pressed toward the fuel storage unit 23. As a result, the protruding portion 23 </ b> B escapes from the recessed portion 25 </ b> B, and the tip of the needle-like member 27 presses and penetrates the lower portion of the recessed portion 26. Thereby, since the fuel storage chamber 23 and the fuel processing chamber 25 communicate with each other, the methanol in the fuel storage chamber 23 moves to the fuel processing chamber 25 and is rendered harmless in the fuel processing chamber 25.
[0128]
Unlike the fuel cartridges of the fifth and sixth embodiments, the fuel cartridge 112 does not require a sealing member, and thus has a feature that the configuration and operation at the time of disposal can be further simplified.
[0129]
8). Embodiment 8
FIG. 17 shows the configuration of the fuel cartridge 114 according to the eighth embodiment.
[0130]
As shown in FIG. 17, the fuel cartridge 114 has a columnar fuel storage portion 33.
[0131]
As shown in FIG. 17B, a low temperature combustion catalyst is accommodated in the fuel accommodating portion 33, and an air hole 33A is provided on a side surface.
[0132]
As shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B, a seal 35 is affixed to the portion provided with the air hole 33A on the side surface. The air hole 33 </ b> A is closed by a seal 35. A tongue-like tab 35 </ b> A is provided at the end of the seal 35.
[0133]
One end face of the fuel storage portion 33 is connected to the fuel supply passage of the fuel cell and supplies methanol when the fuel cartridge 114 is attached to a portable device that uses the fuel cell as a power source or the fuel cell itself. A connecting portion 33B is formed.
[0134]
When the use of the fuel cartridge 114 is finished, the fuel cartridge 114 is detached from the portable device or the fuel cell, and the seal 35 is peeled off. Thereby, since the air hole 33A is opened, fresh outside air flows from the air hole 33A, and the methanol remaining in the fuel storage portion 33 is burned at a low temperature by the low-temperature combustion catalyst and rendered harmless.
[0135]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, there is provided a fuel cartridge capable of easily recovering or detoxifying the fuel remaining inside at the time of disposal and preventing the fuel from being released to the natural world.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a fuel cartridge according to a first embodiment.
2 is a cross-sectional view showing details of a configuration in the vicinity of an end portion on a side where a seal member is attached in the fuel cartridge shown in FIG.
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the fuel cartridge shown in FIG. 1 with the seal member peeled off and the injection needle of the syringe inserted into the thin portion.
FIG. 4 is a perspective view and a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of a fuel cartridge according to a second embodiment.
FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the fuel cartridge shown in FIG. 4 with the seal member peeled off and the injection needle of the syringe inserted into the thin portion.
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing another example of a fuel cartridge according to the second embodiment.
FIG. 7 is a perspective view and a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of a fuel cartridge according to a third embodiment.
8 is a cross-sectional view showing the fuel cartridge shown in FIG. 7 where the sealing member is peeled off and the injection needle of the syringe is inserted into the thin part.
FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating a configuration of a fuel cartridge according to a fourth embodiment.
FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a configuration of a fuel cartridge according to a fourth embodiment.
FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing another example of the fuel cartridge according to the fourth embodiment.
FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing another example of the fuel cartridge according to the fourth embodiment.
FIG. 13 is a perspective view and a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of a fuel cartridge according to a fifth embodiment.
FIG. 14 is a perspective view and a cross-sectional view showing another example of the fuel cartridge according to the fifth embodiment.
FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a configuration of a fuel cartridge according to a sixth embodiment.
FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of a fuel cartridge according to a seventh embodiment.
FIG. 17 is a perspective view and a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of a fuel cartridge according to an eighth embodiment.
[Explanation of symbols]
2 Fuel storage part
3 Fuel storage part
4 Seal member
5 Fuel processing section
7 Guide section
9 Seal member
11A Needle-shaped member
11B Needle-shaped member
12 Fuel compartment
14 Seal member
22 Fuel compartment
24 connections
26 Injection needle insertion part
32 Fuel compartment
34 Sealing member

Claims (14)

A fuel cartridge that contains a fuel for a fuel cell, and supplies the fuel in the fuel storage to the fuel cell;
An extraction means insertion portion that is formed on a wall surface of the fuel storage portion and into which a fuel extraction means for extracting fuel in the fuel storage portion is inserted;
A fuel cartridge comprising: a removable sealing member that covers the extraction means insertion portion. 2. The fuel cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the extraction means insertion portion has a thin portion formed thinner than other portions of the wall surface of the fuel storage portion. 2. The fuel cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the extraction means insertion portion includes an opening provided on a wall surface of the fuel storage portion, and a seal member that covers the opening. A fuel cartridge for supplying fuel to a fuel cell,
A fuel containing portion that contains the fuel and has an opening on the wall;
A fuel cartridge, comprising: a removable seal member that covers the opening in the fuel storage portion. A fuel storage unit that stores fuel for the fuel cell and supplies the fuel to the fuel cell;
The fuel storage portion is provided with a low-temperature combustion catalyst for low-temperature combustion of the fuel, and is provided with an air hole for communicating the fuel storage portion with outside air,
Further, the air hole is closed by a removable seal member. A fuel cartridge for supplying fuel to a fuel cell,
A fuel storage section for storing the fuel;
A fuel processing unit for detoxifying the fuel;
Holding means configured to hold the fuel storage portion and the fuel processing portion apart from each other and to be able to release the holding;
Guide means for guiding the fuel storage portion and the fuel processing portion in directions approaching each other;
A fuel cartridge comprising: a communication unit configured to cause the fuel storage unit and the fuel processing unit to communicate with each other along the guide unit in a state in which the holding by the holding unit is released. The fuel cartridge according to claim 6, wherein the holding means is a removable spacer provided between the fuel storage portion and the fuel processing portion. The communication means includes a hollow needle-like member provided on a surface of the fuel processing section facing the fuel storage section so as to extend toward the fuel storage section. A fuel cartridge according to claim 1. 9. The fuel according to claim 8, wherein at least a part of a side through which the needle-like member penetrates in the wall of the fuel storage portion is formed to be thinner and thinner than other wall surfaces of the fuel storage portion. cartridge. The fuel cartridge according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein a fuel absorbent that absorbs the fuel is accommodated in the fuel processing section. The fuel cartridge according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein a fuel coagulant for coagulating the fuel is accommodated in the fuel processing unit. The fuel cartridge according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein a decomposition catalyst for decomposing the fuel is accommodated in the fuel processing unit. The fuel cartridge according to claim 12, wherein the cracking catalyst is a low-temperature combustion catalyst for burning the fuel at a low temperature. The fuel cartridge according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the fuel processing section has an air hole that opens when the holding by the holding means is released.

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