JP2009135077A - Power supply system and its operation method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a power supply system including a fuel cell which can perform power generation properly by introducing various kinds of alcohol fuel regardless of the types of the alcohol. <P>SOLUTION: The power supply system includes a fuel cell, a fuel storage means into which a fuel is filled and is detachable, and a fuel supply passage which supplies the fuel in the fuel storage means to the fuel cell. The fuel storage means has an identification information, and the power supply system has a means to read the identification information and a means to change a parameter required for power generation by the fuel cell based on the identification information read out. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a power supply system, and more particularly to a power supply system having a fuel cell using alcohol as a fuel.

  In recent years, rechargeable secondary batteries such as nickel cadmium and nickel metal hydride batteries have been growing significantly in portable devices such as mobile phones, digital video cameras, personal computers (PCs), personal digital assistants (PDAs), and digital cameras. Is popular. However, from the viewpoint of energy use efficiency, considering power generation efficiency and power transmission loss at the power plant, charging from household power sources (outlets) etc. is in a situation where the use efficiency is as low as about 12%. Energy use efficiency is not necessarily high.

  Therefore, in recent years, attention has been focused on fuel cells that have little impact on the environment and that can realize an extremely high efficiency of 30 to 40% from the viewpoint of energy utilization efficiency. In particular, fuel cells are expected to be used as power sources for automobiles, household cogeneration, and portable devices, and research and development for practical use is being promoted by each company.

In particular, there has been a remarkable progress in the technology of direct alcohol fuel cells using alcohol as a fuel. A fuel cell using alcohol such as methanol and ethanol as a fuel (hereinafter referred to as “alcohol fuel cell”) and its system However, it already exists (for example, Patent Document 1).
JP 2006-294471 A

  In the future, if a fuel cell system having an alcohol fuel cell becomes widespread, it is expected that a plurality of types of alcohol fuel will be mixed in the market. Therefore, when these alcohol fuels are displayed and sold at a time as fuel for the fuel cell, the user may purchase the wrong type of alcohol fuel and use it for the fuel cell system. In such a case, there is a possibility that problems such as a malfunction of the fuel cell or a rapid deterioration of the fuel cell may occur due to a difference in the type of alcohol fuel.

  Therefore, in the near future, regardless of the type of alcohol fuel, it is expected that there will be an increasing demand for a fuel cell that can properly generate power as long as it is supplied with any alcohol fuel.

  The present invention has been made in view of such a background, and a power supply system including an alcohol fuel cell capable of appropriately generating power by introducing various alcohol fuels regardless of the type of alcohol, Another object is to propose a method for operating such a power supply system.

According to the present invention, there is provided a power supply system comprising a fuel cell, a detachable fuel storage means filled with fuel therein, and a fuel supply path for supplying fuel from the fuel storage means to the fuel cell. ,
The fuel storage means has authentication information,
The power supply system further includes
Means for reading the authentication information;
Means for changing parameters necessary for power generation in the fuel cell based on the read authentication information;
A power supply system is provided.

  Here, the means for changing the parameter necessary for power generation in the fuel cell may include a control means for controlling the amount of fuel supplied to the fuel cell.

The fuel storage means stores alcohol fuel,
The authentication information may include information on the type of alcohol fuel stored in the fuel storage means.

The power supply system further includes a secondary battery charged with the fuel cell and a means for measuring the voltage of the secondary battery,
If the voltage of the secondary battery is less than a predetermined value, continue charging by the fuel cell until the voltage of the secondary battery reaches a predetermined value,
When the voltage of the secondary battery is equal to or higher than a predetermined value, charging by the fuel cell may be stopped.

  In addition, even when the voltage of the secondary battery is equal to or higher than a predetermined value, the power supply system continues charging by the fuel cell when a current exceeding a threshold value flows from the secondary battery to the outside. May be.

  Alternatively, when the voltage measurement result of the secondary battery by the means for measuring the voltage of the secondary battery is equal to or greater than the predetermined value, the secondary battery has a voltage until the voltage of the secondary battery falls below the predetermined value. The power supply to the outside may be continued.

Further, in the power supply system, based on the read authentication information, means for changing parameters necessary for power generation in the fuel cell,
When the fuel storage means is replaced, the authentication information of the new fuel storage means is compared with the authentication information of the fuel storage means immediately before replacement,
If they are different, the authentication information held by the fuel storage means immediately before the replacement may be updated to the authentication information held by the newly installed fuel storage means.

Further, in the power supply system, a part of the fuel supply path constitutes a fuel circulation path including the fuel cell without including the fuel storage means,
When the fuel storage means is replaced, the authentication information of the new fuel storage means is compared with the authentication information of the fuel storage means immediately before replacement, and if the two are different, the residual fuel in the fuel circulation path The power generation in the fuel cell may be continued until a certain concentration is reached.

  In this case, the power supply system may further include means for stopping fuel supply from the fuel storage means to the fuel cell until the residual fuel becomes a certain concentration or less.

  Further, the power supply system may include a circuit capable of changing a capacity of a load device connected to the fuel cell until the residual fuel becomes a certain concentration or less.

Alternatively, in the power supply system, a part of the fuel supply path constitutes a fuel circulation path including the fuel cell without including the fuel storage means,
When the fuel storage means is replaced, the authentication information of the new fuel storage means is compared with the authentication information of the fuel storage means immediately before the replacement, and if they are different, the fuel included in the fuel circulation path Equipped with a tank to evacuate
A plurality of the tanks may be provided so as to be used properly according to the type of fuel.

In the power supply system, when the fuel storage means is replaced, the fuel contained in the replaced fuel storage means is different from the fuel contained in the fuel storage means immediately before replacement.
There may be provided means for returning the fuel to the fuel circulation path from the tank in which the same type of fuel as the fuel charged in the new fuel storage means is stored.

  Also, in this case, before supplying the fuel filled in the new fuel storage means to the fuel cell, the same type of fuel stored in the tank as the fuel filled in the new fuel storage means May be used.

  In particular, in this case, the amount of air supplied to the fuel cell may gradually increase while the fuel stored in the tank is used in advance.

  Further, the power supply system may include a display function for announcing that the fuel cell is in the aging process during the aging process performed as a preliminary process in order to distribute new fuel in the fuel circulation path. . In addition to this, even if an operation to turn off the power supply is performed during the aging process, the power supply system becomes invalid so that the operation of the power supply system can be avoided. A bypass line may be provided.

The power supply system further includes means for measuring the amount of liquid in the fuel storage means, and means for measuring the amount of power supplied from the fuel cell to a load device connected to the fuel cell,
You may have a display means which calculates the remaining operation time of the said fuel cell from the result measured in both means, and displays this remaining operation time.

  In the power supply system, when the fuel storage means is removed during power generation by the fuel cell, power generation by the fuel cell may be continued for a predetermined time.

Furthermore, in the present invention,
A method of operating a power supply system comprising: a fuel cell; a removable fuel storage means filled with fuel; and a fuel supply path for supplying fuel from the fuel storage means to the fuel cell. ,
Reading authentication information attached to the fuel storage means;
Changing parameters necessary for power generation in the fuel cell based on the read authentication information;
There is provided a method characterized by comprising:

Here, the fuel storage means stores alcohol fuel,
The authentication information may include information on the type of alcohol fuel stored in the fuel storage means.

Furthermore, in the present invention, as the second power supply system,
A fuel cell;
Removable fuel storage means filled with fuel;
A fuel supply path for supplying fuel in the fuel storage means to the fuel cell;
Control means for controlling the amount of fuel supplied to the fuel cell;
A power supply system comprising:
The power supply system has a plurality of fuel cells,
The fuel storage means has authentication information including the type of fuel stored in the fuel storage means,
The power supply system further includes means for reading the authentication information,
The power supply system selects a fuel cell that supplies fuel contained in the fuel storage means from the plurality of fuel cells based on the read authentication information,
On the basis of the read authentication information, a power supply system is provided in which a supply amount of fuel supplied to the selected fuel cell is controlled by the control means.

In the second power supply system, the fuel storage means stores alcohol fuel,
The authentication information may include information on the type of alcohol fuel stored in the fuel storage means.

When the fuel storage means is replaced with a second fuel storage means in which another fuel is stored,
Different fuel cells may be selected based on the authentication information read from the second fuel storage means, and the amount of fuel supplied to the different fuel cells may be controlled by the control means.

Alternatively, the second fuel storage means has a recovery means capable of recovering a fuel different from the stored fuel,
A switching valve is installed between the fuel supply path and the second fuel storage means,
The switching valve switches between a first position where the fuel stored in the second fuel storage means is supplied to the fuel supply path and a second position where the fuel supply path is connected to the recovery means. Can
When the fuel storage means is replaced with the second fuel storage means, the fuel contained in the fuel supply path may be recovered by the recovery means by switching the switching valve to the second position.

The second power supply system further includes fuel storage means for each fuel cell,
When the fuel storage means is replaced with a second fuel storage means in which another fuel is stored, the fuel storage means replaces the fuel contained in the fuel supply path before the fuel storage means is replaced. The fuel may be collected in the fuel storage means for the fuel cell before being used.

  Further, when the fuel storage means is replaced with the second fuel storage means, in the newly selected fuel cell, after the power generation operation is stabilized, the newly selected fuel cell is connected to the load. May be.

Here, in the newly selected fuel cell, until the power generation operation is stabilized,
The concentration of fuel supplied to the newly selected fuel cell may be temporarily increased by the control means.

  The second power supply system has a display function for announcing that the fuel cell is undergoing an aging process until the fuel stored in the second fuel storage means reaches the fuel supply path. May be.

In addition, the second power supply system stores the authentication information read from the fuel storage means and the authentication information read from the fuel storage means before and after the replacement when the fuel storage means is replaced. A comparison means for comparing,
When both authentication information is different, the authentication information after replacement may be stored in the storage means.

  The power supply system may include at least two detachable fuel storage means.

  The plurality of fuel storage means may have the same shape.

In addition, the second power supply system
A first switching valve that switches between a first position in which fuel from one fuel storage means flows into the fuel supply path and a second position in which fuel from the other fuel storage means flows into the fuel supply path;
A second switching valve capable of switching the fuel in the fuel supply path between the first fuel cell side and the second fuel cell side;
You may have.

Here, the at least two fuel storage means store the same fuel,
When the one fuel storage means is removed and / or when the amount of fuel contained in the one fuel storage means is low,
The first switching valve may be switched from the first position to the second position.

Alternatively, different fuels are stored in the at least two fuel storage means,
When the fuel of the one fuel storage means is supplied to the first fuel cell,
When the one fuel storage means is removed and / or when the amount of fuel contained in the one fuel storage means is low,
The first switching valve is switched from the first position to the second position;
The second switching valve may be switched from the first fuel cell side to the second fuel cell side.

In the present invention, as the second method,
A fuel cell;
Removable fuel storage means filled with fuel;
A fuel supply path for supplying fuel in the fuel storage means to the fuel cell;
Control means for controlling the amount of fuel supplied to the fuel cell;
A method of operating a power supply system comprising:
The power supply system has a plurality of fuel cells,
The method is
(A) reading authentication information including the type of fuel stored in the fuel storage means from the fuel storage means;
(B) selecting a fuel cell that supplies fuel contained in the fuel storage means from the plurality of fuel cells based on the read authentication information;
(C) controlling the amount of fuel supplied to the selected fuel cell by the control means based on the read authentication information;
Is provided.

Here, the fuel storage means stores alcohol fuel,
The authentication information may include information on the type of alcohol fuel stored in the fuel storage means.

The power system includes at least two removable fuel storage means,
Different fuels are stored in the at least two fuel storage means,
The second method can be used when the one fuel storage means is removed and / or when the amount of fuel contained in the one fuel storage means is low.
(D) a step of switching from a state where the fuel of one fuel storage means is supplied to the first fuel cell to a state where the fuel of the other fuel storage means is supplied to the second fuel cell. good.

The power supply system collects fuel discharged from the first and second fuel cells and can supply the fuel to the first and second fuel cells again. Has a circulation tank,
The second step is
(E) Before the step d, there may be a step of starting power generation of the second fuel cell using the fuel in the second fuel circulation tank.

  Here, in step e, fuel having a higher concentration than that during normal power generation may be supplied to the second fuel cell.

In addition, the second method may be performed when the one fuel storage means is removed and / or when the amount of fuel contained in the one fuel storage means is reduced.
(F) Before the step e, a step of collecting fuel in the first circulation tank may be included.

  The present invention provides a power supply system including an alcohol fuel cell that can appropriately generate power by introducing various alcohol fuels regardless of the type of alcohol, and a method for operating such a power supply system. It becomes possible to do.

  First, an example of a basic configuration of a power supply system according to the present invention will be briefly described so that the configuration and effects of the present invention can be better understood.

  FIG. 1 shows an example of a system configuration of a power supply system according to the present invention. The power supply system 1 according to the present invention includes a fuel cell power generation unit 301 including an alcohol fuel cell 300, a control unit 310 including a CPU and a control circuit, and a secondary battery 320. The controller 310 manages the operation of various members provided in the power supply system 1 and plays a role of controlling them. However, in FIG. 1, each wiring connecting various members and the control unit 310 is omitted for easy viewing of the drawing.

  In the fuel cell power generation unit 301, fuel is supplied from the fuel storage unit 330 to the anode of the fuel cell 300 through various pipes, valves, and / or pumps that form the fuel supply path 305. . For example, in the example of FIG. 1, the fuel supply path 305 is provided with a fuel storage device 330, a fuel pump 340, a circulation tank 360, and a fuel circulation pump 350, which are connected in this order via piping. ing. The fuel pump 340 serves to supply the fuel filled in the fuel storage device 330 to the circulation tank 360. The fuel circulation pump 350 serves to supply the alcohol fuel stored in the circulation tank 360 to the anode of the fuel cell. In the example of FIG. 1, the fuel supply path 305 constitutes a circulation path, and the residual fuel discharged from the fuel cell 300 and not used for the reaction is returned again to the circulation tank 360 ( Hereinafter, in the fuel supply path 305, the path from the circulation tank 360 to the fuel circulation pump 350 to the fuel cell 300 to the circulation tank 360 is particularly referred to as “fuel circulation path” 305A).

  On the other hand, in the fuel cell power generation unit 301, an oxidant is supplied from the blower 410 to the cathode of the fuel cell 300 through various pipes that form the oxidant supply path 405. The oxidant that was discharged from the fuel cell 300 and was not used for the reaction and the water generated by the electrochemical reaction in the fuel cell 300 were discharged toward the water tank 450 via the radiator 440 having the fan 430. The The water tank 450 is connected to the circulation tank 360 by piping through the water pump 460, and the water in the water tank 450 is supplied to the circulation tank 360 as appropriate.

  In addition, a display controller 210, a ROM 220, a RAM 230, a delay timer 235, a fuel cell auxiliary device control register group 240, and the like are coupled to the controller 310 so as to communicate with each other. The display controller 210 is connected to the display panel 250.

  On the other hand, the secondary battery 320 is connected to the fuel cell via the secondary battery charging switch 510, and charging the secondary battery from the fuel cell 300 is performed by turning on the secondary battery charging switch 510. be able to. When power from the fuel cell is supplied to the external load device 520 instead of charging the secondary battery 320, the external load device connection switch 515 is turned on.

  The basic operation method of the fuel cell 300 included in the power supply system 1 having the above configuration will be apparent to those skilled in the art and will not be described further.

  Here, considering the characteristics of the fuel cell as a fuel, there are generally various types of alcohols having different catalytic activities, chemical reactivity, and properties of reaction products. Therefore, usually, even if various alcohol fuels are used in the same fuel cell, good power generation performance cannot always be obtained. Conversely, it is considered extremely difficult to maintain the same power generation performance using various alcohol fuels.

  However, the inventors of the present application can perform appropriate power generation according to each fuel by changing the setting of parameters necessary for power generation of the fuel cell each time the fuel used is changed. The idea was found and the present invention was achieved. Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described.

  In the present invention, authentication information provided in the fuel storage means is used to determine the type of alcohol fuel filled in the detachable fuel storage means. (In the following description, as a representative example of the fuel storage means 330, a fuel cartridge filled with fuel will be described as an example.) That is, in the present invention, based on the authentication information, the specification of the fuel cartridge ( For example, the type of alcohol fuel filled therein is determined. Also, according to this specification, the power generation parameters in the power supply system are changed, and the power generation in the fuel cell is optimized for each type of fuel. (In such a method, the distinction between genuine cartridges and other cartridges is also possible. Possible.)

  Hereinafter, a method for identifying the specification of the fuel cartridge based on the authentication information will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 schematically shows a detachable fuel cartridge 20 mounted on the power supply system 1.

  As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the authentication information is installed in the fuel cartridge 20 in the form of an identification code 10 such as a barcode 10a or an RFID (IC tag) 10b.

  The “authentication information” preferably includes at least information on the model number, manufacturer, alcohol fuel concentration, date of manufacture, and the like of the fuel cartridge 20 in addition to the type of alcohol used as fuel. In this case, in the power supply system 1, when a fuel-related problem occurs, it is possible to determine whether the type and concentration of the fuel cartridge are appropriate, or whether the installed fuel cartridge is a genuine product. Further, when a failure caused by fuel occurs in the power supply system 1, it is possible to identify the cause in a short time based on information on the type, concentration and date of manufacture of the fuel.

The method of reading the authentication information installed in the fuel cartridge 20 is a combination of a method of reading data in a serial arrangement, a method of reading data in a parallel arrangement, and a method of reading data in a serial and parallel arrangement Is mentioned. These methods are particularly desirable when considering the versatility of the power supply system. For example, the authentication information may be expressed in the following form.
MSB (most significant bit) ← → LSB (least significant bit)
Manufacturer code Model number Fuel type Fuel concentration Date of manufacture However, these items are merely examples, and in the present invention, it is not always necessary to include all these items. For example, if the manufacturer and model number of the fuel cartridge can be specified by the authentication information, the storage unit provided in the power supply system 1 (for example, a ROM or EEPROM that retains information even when the power is turned off is desirable) based on the information. Information relating to the stored power generation parameters (for example, the concentration of water and fuel in the fuel circulation path 305A, the rotation speed and rotation time of the fuel circulation pump 350, the rotation speed and rotation time of the blower 410, the temperature of the fuel cell 300, It is possible to call the threshold value of the liquid amount error of the fuel cartridge 20 and information such as each threshold value of each auxiliary machine for stabilizing the power generation operation of the fuel cell. Furthermore, by writing the data read from the authentication information in each control register provided for controlling each auxiliary machine, it is possible to perform proper power generation of the fuel cell 300 based on this data.

  Next, a specific operation of the power supply system 1 according to the present invention based on the authentication information of the fuel cartridge 20 will be described.

  FIG. 3 schematically shows the fuel cartridge 20 and various members of the power supply system 1 in the vicinity of the position where the fuel cartridge 20 is installed. FIG. 4 shows a flowchart for properly operating the fuel cell 300 in the power supply system 1 according to the method of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the fuel cartridge 20 includes alcohol fuel 19 therein. The fuel cartridge 20 is provided with a float member 80 so as to float on the liquid level of the fuel 19. For example, the float member 80 can move along a guide member 90 installed inside the fuel cartridge 20 so as to extend in the axial direction. However, the guide member 90 may be omitted. On the other hand, on the power supply system 1 side, three sensors, that is, an upper limit position sensor 50, a lower limit position sensor 70, and an intermediate position sensor 60 installed between both sensors are provided in the vicinity of the fuel cartridge 20. . The lower limit position sensor 70 also has a function of detecting whether or not the fuel cartridge 20 is installed.

  First, as shown in FIG. 3, the fuel cartridge 20 having the identification code 10 in the form of the above-described barcode or RFID (IC tag) as the authentication information is inserted into the fuel cartridge provided in the power supply system 1. It is installed in the hole 30.

  Next, when the activation switch of the power supply system is turned on (step S410 in FIG. 4), the control circuit 310 including the CPU 200 is activated. Further, a power lamp 254 indicating that the power has been turned on is turned on on the display panel 250 via the display controller 210. At this stage, the CPU 200 determines whether or not the fuel cartridge 20 is properly installed at a predetermined position of the power supply system 1 using the lower limit position sensor 70 (step S420 in FIG. 4).

  When it is confirmed that the fuel cartridge 20 is installed at an appropriate position, the CPU 200 uses the authentication information reading sensor 100 to determine the specification of the installed fuel cartridge 20 and then encodes the fuel cartridge 20 installed in the fuel cartridge 20. Read authentication information. The CPU 200 compares the read information with information registered in the ROM 220 in advance, and whether the currently installed fuel cartridge 20 is included in the list registered in the ROM 220 in advance. It is determined whether or not (step S430 in FIG. 4).

  If the installed fuel cartridge 20 is not registered in the ROM 220, the CPU 200 displays on the display panel 250 via the display controller 210 that the installed fuel cartridge is incompatible. And urge the operator to install the proper fuel cartridge. For this display, characters (for example, characters emphasized by color), voice or buzzer are used. Here, when prompting the operator to install an appropriate cartridge, information on an appropriate fuel cartridge (for example, a model number of the fuel cartridge) may be displayed. This eliminates the need for the operator to search for an appropriate fuel cartridge from a catalog or manual.

  In order to prevent the fuel cell 300 from being damaged while determining whether the installed fuel cartridge is a proper product, the secondary battery charge switch 510 and the external load device connection switch 515 (see FIG. 1) are set. It is preferable to leave the fuel cell 300 in an unloaded state while leaving it off.

  Further, in the determination of the fuel cartridge, if it is determined that the fuel cartridge is a nonconforming product, the fuel pump 340 is stopped, and the fuel supply from the fuel pump 340 to the fuel cell 300 and the power generation operation are not performed. . In this case, the operator may be notified that the fuel cell 300 is stopped by blinking the fuel cell operation display lamp 256 of the display panel 250.

  On the other hand, when it is confirmed in step S430 described above that an appropriate fuel cartridge is installed, the CPU 200 determines the type of fuel charged in the fuel cartridge 20 from the read authentication information, and The power generation parameters suitable for the fuel are called from the ROM 220 (step S440 in FIG. 4; however, FIG. 4 shows an example in which the ROM 220 includes information on ethanol and methanol as the types of alcohol). In the ROM 220, information on power generation parameters of the fuel cell is registered in advance for each fuel type. Further, the CPU 200 inputs the called power generation parameter to the auxiliary equipment control register group 240 that controls the operation of the auxiliary equipment of the fuel cell. Thereafter, the delay timer 235 starts and the remaining amount of fuel in the fuel cartridge 20 is confirmed.

  Next, in step S450 of FIG. 4, the remaining amount of fuel contained in the fuel cartridge 20 is determined. The three sensors 50, 60, and 70 shown in FIG. 2 are used to determine the remaining amount of fuel in the fuel cartridge 20. That is, the position of the liquid surface of the alcohol fuel 19 is detected by detecting the position of the float member 80 in the fuel cartridge 20 using the three sensors 50, 60, and 70. Further, based on this result, the remaining amount of fuel in the fuel cartridge 20 can be confirmed.

  The CPU 200 displays the liquid volume measurement results obtained by the three sensors on the display panel 250 via the display controller 210. For example, if it is determined as a result of the measurement that the fuel level has not reached the position of the lower limit position sensor 70, the CPU 200 displays an insufficient liquid level error, a fuel cartridge on the display panel 250 via the display controller 210. Display replacement request or fuel cartridge information. If it is determined in step 450 in FIG. 4 that the remaining amount of fuel is low, the fuel cell is placed in a no-load state in order to avoid damage to the fuel cell 300.

  Thereafter, when a cartridge filled with a sufficient amount of fuel is properly installed before the delay timer 235 becomes full, the above error display disappears (step S460).

  Next, in step S470 of FIG. 4, an operation of confirming the capacity of the secondary battery 320 is performed. If it is determined that the capacity of the secondary battery 320 is sufficient, the power generation by the fuel cell 300 is not executed. On the other hand, when it is determined that the capacity of the secondary battery 320 is not sufficient, a sequence corresponding to the power generation parameter is executed. That is, the various pumps 340 and 350, the blower 410, and the like are operated, and fuel supply and air supply to the fuel cell 300 are started. Similarly, other devices also execute operations according to the power generation parameters written in the control register group 240. As described above, in the processes after step S440 in FIG. 4, the power generation system is called for power generation parameters suitable for the type of fuel contained in the installed fuel cartridge 20, so that power generation by the fuel cell 300 is performed. Can be started properly.

  Further, when it is confirmed that the output from the fuel cell has stabilized after a lapse of a predetermined time from the start of power generation in the fuel cell 300, the secondary battery charge switch 510 is turned on, and the fuel cell 300 Charging to the secondary battery 320 is started (step S480).

  On the other hand, if a sufficient amount of fuel cartridge is not installed until the delay timer 235 becomes full (steps S460 and S490 in FIG. 4), it is determined that the power supply by the power supply system 1 is impossible. Then, a supply capacity error of the power supply system 1 or a fuel cartridge replacement request message is displayed on the error display section 252 of the display panel 250. Furthermore, a message indicating that power supply from the power supply system 1 to the load device 520 (for example, a printer) has been stopped and output from the power supply system 1 has been stopped is displayed on the display panel 250. For these displays, characters (for example, characters emphasized by color), voice or buzzer may be used.

  The power supply system 1 preferably further includes means for measuring the current and voltage flowing through the load device 520. In this case, the rough replacement time of the fuel cartridge can be grasped by the following operation.

  First, the amount of alcohol fuel 19 contained in the fuel cartridge 20 is measured, and the remaining amount is determined. Further, the current and voltage flowing to the load device 520 are measured, and the amount of power per unit time is obtained. A fuel consumption amount per unit time is calculated from the obtained electric power amount. Further, by comparing this with the remaining amount of fuel, the estimated operation possible time is calculated, and the replacement timing of the fuel cartridge is displayed on the display panel 250. For example, the display panel 250 may display “how many hours are available for use”, display the remaining amount by a cartridge illustration, change the blinking cycle of the display lamp, or the like. Thereby, the operator can confirm the rough replacement time of the fuel cartridge.

  The basic operation of the power supply system according to the present invention has been described above. However, in such a system, even if an operator mistakenly installs a fuel cartridge filled with a different type of fuel, the power supply system starts operation based on the authentication information of the fuel cartridge. It is possible.

  Therefore, when replacing the fuel cartridge, it is preferable to add an operation capable of confirming whether or not to change the fuel type. As a result, when the fuel cartridge is replaced with a new one, it is possible to prevent the operator from installing a fuel cartridge filled with a different type of fuel by mistake.

  Hereinafter, an operation method for avoiding such an erroneous operation by the operator will be described. FIG. 5 shows a flowchart of operations performed in the power supply system in order to avoid that a fuel cartridge filled with a different type of fuel is erroneously installed and power generation using the fuel contained therein is performed. It is.

  First, when a new fuel cartridge 20 is installed in the power supply system 1, the CPU 200 reads authentication information provided in the fuel cartridge 20 via the authentication information reading sensor 100 as described above. Further, the read information is compared with information registered in the power supply system (hereinafter referred to as “default information”) (step S510). As a result, if the fuel type of the installed cartridge is different from the default information, it is notified via the display panel 250 that a fuel cartridge of a type different from the default information has been installed. That is, the operator is asked to determine whether or not power generation can be started with the fuel filled in the installed cartridge (step S520).

  At this time, when the operator presses a confirmation key (for example, a button 262 as shown in FIG. 8 described later), the CPU 200 determines that the fuel has been intentionally changed (step S530), and generates power related to the new fuel. The parameter is read from the ROM 220 and this parameter is input to the control register group 240. Further, before power generation by the fuel cell 300, a preparatory operation (hereinafter referred to as “aging process”) is performed in order to acclimate the fuel cell with new fuel. Thereafter, power generation according to the new fuel is started.

  Here, when the confirmation key is pressed by the operator, the information regarding the newly installed fuel cartridge is preferably updated as the latest default information. As a result, unless otherwise specifically operated, power generation from the next time onward can be performed based on the power generation parameters relating to the fuel. Therefore, the aging process is unnecessary until the fuel cartridge is replaced with a cartridge filled with a different type of fuel, and waste of fuel and time is avoided.

  Further, when the power supply system 1 is shut down before the new fuel is sufficiently distributed in the fuel cell 300 by the aging process, for example, when a load that flows a large current is connected when the power supply system 1 is started next time. For example, a heavy burden is placed on the fuel cell 300, and the fuel cell may break down. For this reason, during the aging process, attention may be drawn through the display panel 250 so that the power supply system 1 is not shut off.

  On the other hand, if the power generation parameter is not updated based on the authentication information of the installed fuel cartridge, for example, if the fuel cartridge is installed by mistake, the cancel key is pressed when a confirmation request is made in step S520. (Step S540). In this case, the sequence returns to the initial state again, and as described above, after confirming that the power supply system is activated, the cartridge installation confirmation operation is executed (steps S410 to S420). Thereafter, the power supply system 1 is in a standby state until an appropriate fuel cartridge is installed.

  Note that when the fuel type is changed, an aging process is required to acclimate the fuel cell with new fuel before power generation by the fuel cell each time the fuel is changed. However, immediately after the replacement of the fuel cartridge, the fuel before the replacement of the fuel cartridge remains to some extent in the fuel supply path 305 including the fuel circulation path 305A. Therefore, in this state, it is not preferable to perform an aging process using new fuel. This is because it is necessary to avoid mixing of fuels in order to maintain the state of the fuel cell stably.

  Then, next, a method for using up the fuel remaining in the fuel supply path 305 before a new kind of fuel is introduced into the fuel supply path 305 (fuel circulation path 305A) will be described.

  First, in step S530 in FIG. 5, when the confirmation key is pressed, the default information is rewritten. Next, power generation of the fuel cell 300 is started according to a power generation sequence including power generation parameters related to the fuel remaining in the fuel supply path 305. In addition, the CPU 200 turns on the external load device connection switch 515 and supplies power to the load device 520. Further, the CPU 200 confirms the output voltage of the secondary battery 320. Here, when the capacity of the secondary battery 320 is small (when the value is equal to or less than the full voltage determination specified value), the secondary battery 320 is charged in addition to the power supply to the load device 520. On the other hand, when the capacity of the secondary battery 320 is sufficient, the charging operation of the secondary battery 320 (the charging switch 510 is turned on) is not performed.

  When the secondary battery 320 is charged, the fuel concentration in the fuel circulation path 305A is monitored together with the output voltage of the secondary battery 320, the fuel concentration becomes low, and the secondary battery 320 cannot be charged. When the concentration is reached, charging from the fuel cell 300 to the secondary battery 320 is stopped.

  Next, in order to promote consumption of residual fuel, the connection destination of the fuel cell 300 is switched to a dummy load (not shown). The load capacity of the dummy load changes according to the fuel concentration of the fuel circulation path 305A (when the fuel concentration is high in the range where the output voltage does not decrease due to the crossover of the fuel circulation path 305A, the power generation capacity of the fuel cell 300 is large. On the other hand, when the concentration is low, the power generation capacity of the fuel cell 300 is also reduced, so that a small current flows.In order to protect the fuel cell 300, the fuel concentration is close to the power generation limit value. Thus, the maximum resistance of the dummy load is controlled to be infinite (that is, the resistance is disconnected). When the secondary battery 320 has already reached a sufficient charge capacity when switching to the dummy load, the dummy load is also used as a load device that replaces the secondary battery 320. Further, in order to prevent the residual fuel and the new fuel from being mixed, the fuel supply from the fuel cartridge 20 is stopped while the residual fuel is consumed.

  Thereafter, when it is confirmed that the concentration of the fuel remaining in the fuel circulation path has sufficiently decreased, new fuel is then supplied and an aging process is performed.

  In the above example, the method of using up the remaining fuel in order to avoid mixing the new fuel and the fuel remaining in the system before the aging process has been described. However, such a method of using up the remaining fuel is premised on the secondary battery 320 being in a state close to full charge. Further, it is necessary to change the capacity of the dummy load according to the concentration of residual fuel. Furthermore, in this method, the fuel is wasted without being effectively used for power generation.

  Next, another method for avoiding mixing of new fuel and fuel remaining in the system will be described in order to avoid such problems as waste of fuel. This method is characterized in that, in preparation for future reuse, when the type of fuel is changed, the previous fuel is temporarily withdrawn to a retreat tank.

  FIG. 6 shows a system configuration example of another power supply system according to the present invention. The basic configuration of the power supply system 2 is the same as that of the power supply system 1 shown in FIG. However, the power supply system 2 is different in that the fuel circulation path 305B includes a circulation tank 360, a circulation pump 350, a fuel cell 300, a three-way valve 610, a retreat tank 620, and a return pump 630. More specifically, the spent fuel pipe discharged from the fuel cell 300 is branched in two directions, that is, a first branch pipe and a second branch pipe. The first branch pipe is connected to the circulation tank 360 via the first three-way valve 610A. Another end of the first three-way valve 610A is connected to the first retraction tank 620A via a pipe. The first evacuation tank 620A is connected to the circulation tank 360 via a pipe and the first return pump 630A. Similarly, the second branch pipe is connected to the circulation tank 360 via the second three-way valve 610B. Another end of the second three-way valve 610B is connected to the second evacuation tank 620B via a pipe. The second evacuation tank 620B is connected to the circulation tank 360 via a pipe and the second return pump 630B. In the example of FIG. 6, the spent fuel pipe from the fuel cell 300 is branched in two directions, and accordingly, the three-way valve 610, the evacuation tank 620, and the return pump 630 are provided two by two. There may be provided more branching directions, and a corresponding number of three-way valves 610, retraction tanks 620 and return pumps 630.

  Hereinafter, a characteristic operation method in the power supply system 2 will be described.

  As described above, when the fuel cartridge is replaced and the confirmation key is pressed by the operator in step S530 in FIG. 5, the default information is rewritten (step S550 in FIG. 5). At this stage, in order to avoid a power generation reaction (that is, an electrochemical reaction between the fuel and the oxidant) in the fuel cell 300, the blower 410 is stopped and the supply of the oxidant into the fuel cell 300 is stopped. The

  Next, the fuel circulation pump 350 operates for a certain time. This operation time is determined in advance based on the time when almost all the fuel is delivered from the circulation tank 360 and the fuel cell 300. At the same time, the three-way valve 610 (for example, 610A) is switched to the retreat tank 620 (for example, 620A) side, and the fuel is retreated to the retreat tank 620 (for example, 620A). The retreat tank 620 is provided separately for each fuel type.

  By such an operation, almost all of the fuel remaining in the circulation tank 620 and the fuel cell 300 is discharged by the fuel circulation pump 350 and stored in the corresponding evacuation tank 620.

  Thereafter, whether or not the fuel in the circulation tank 360 and the fuel cell 300 is completely discharged is confirmed using the liquid level sensor or the weight measurement result. After this confirmation, water stored in the drain tank is supplied to the circulation tank 360 using a drain pump (not shown) in preparation for supplying new fuel. As shown in FIG. 6, when there is another water tank 450 other than the drain tank, the water in this water tank 450 may be used.

  After the above operation, the CPU 200 reads the power generation parameter updated with the change of the fuel from the ROM 220 and inputs it to the register group 240. Further, fuel is supplied from the fuel cartridge 20 to the circulation tank 360. Further, the aging process is performed so that the fuel circulation pump 350 is operated and new fuel is distributed to the fuel cell 300.

  During the aging process, a message or the like indicating that the power supply system is in the aging process may be displayed on the display panel 250 in order to prevent the operator from turning off the power supply system. Alternatively, in addition to this, a bypass line that can bypass the power supply line in which the switch for power supply is installed may be provided only during the aging process. As a result, even if the operator performs an operation to turn off the power system, it is possible to avoid stopping the power system during the aging process. Further, during the aging process, power to the load device 520 is supplied from the secondary battery 320.

  FIG. 7 shows a configuration example of such a bypass line. In FIG. 7, the same components as those shown in FIGS. 1 and 6 are denoted by the same reference numerals. In this figure, for the sake of clarity, some of the components shown in FIGS. 1 and 6, such as the switch 515, the DCDC converter (drive system), the DCDC converter (control system), etc. are omitted. It is necessary to keep in mind. In this figure, a power switch 715 is provided in a part of the power line 710. Further, a bypass line 720 is provided in parallel with the power supply switch 715 of the power supply line 710, and the bypass line 720 includes a bypass line switch 725. Normally, the bypass line switch 725 is in an off state. Therefore, when the operator turns on the system, the power switch 715 is turned on, and the power line 710 connecting the DCDC converter (power system control system), the fuel cell 300 and the secondary battery 320 is electrically connected. The Conversely, when the operator turns off the system, the power switch 715 is turned off, and the power line 710 connecting the DCDC converter (power system control system), the fuel cell 300 and the secondary battery 320 is cut off. However, if the operator performs an operation to turn off the power during the aging process, the power line is switched to the bypass line 720 by the CUP 200 (not shown in FIG. 7). More specifically, the bypass line switch 725 is turned on, and the DCDC converter (control system), the fuel cell 300 and the secondary battery 320 are connected by the bypass line 720. As a result, even if an operation to turn off the power is mistakenly performed, it is possible to avoid stopping the power supply system. It should be noted that the configuration shown here is an example, and it is obvious to those skilled in the art that the bypass line can have various other configurations.

  When the aging process is completed, the initial activation of the fuel cell 300 is started as follows in accordance with the read power generation parameter.

  First, when the fuel cell 300 becomes familiar with new fuel, the fuel pump 340 is operated and new fuel is supplied to the circulation tank 360. Thereby, the fuel concentration in the circulation tank 360 and further in the fuel cell 300 temporarily rises. Thereafter, the blower (air pump) 410 is actuated to supply oxidant (air) to the fuel cell 300 and power generation by the fuel cell 300 is started. In this state, since the concentration of the fuel supplied to the fuel cell 300 is higher than that in the normal case, the electrochemical reaction in the fuel cell 300 is promoted, and the fuel cell 300 is quickly brought to the steady operating temperature (and further It reaches the steady power generation state). In particular, the supply amount of the oxidizing agent (air) by the blower 410 may be gradually increased by gradually increasing the rotational speed of the blower 410. Thereby, the electrochemical reaction in the fuel cell 300 is further promoted, and the fuel cell reaches the steady operating temperature more quickly. Until the fuel cell 300 reaches the steady operating temperature, the fuel cell is in an unloaded state in order to prevent damage to the fuel cell.

  Alternatively or in addition to this, the connection of the fuel cell 300 may be switched to a dummy load (not shown) to gradually increase the amount of current. In this case, due to heat generation by power generation, the time until the fuel cell reaches the steady operating temperature is shortened.

  Thereafter, when the fuel cartridge is replaced, the above-described steps are repeated again. In particular, as a result of the reading of the authentication information by the reading sensor 100, the type of fuel contained in the newly installed fuel cartridge is different from the immediately preceding fuel, and the fuel stored in any of the retreat tanks If it is the same, the following operations are performed.

  As described above, almost all the fuel remaining in the fuel circulation path is collected in the retreat tank 620 (for example, the retreat tank 620B).

  Next, after it is confirmed that the fuel in the circulation tank 360 and the fuel cell 300 has been completely discharged, for example, the return pump 630A is operated, and the fuel stored in the retreat tank 620A is transferred to the circulation tank 360. Returned. Thereafter, the aging process described above is performed using this fuel. Next, initial startup of the fuel cell 300 is started by the stored fuel. Here, when the fuel cell 300 is initially started, as described above, the amount of oxidant (air) supplied by the blower 410 may be gradually increased to gradually increase the amount of air supplied to the fuel cell. .

  Such a procedure is repeated each time the fuel type is changed (that is, every time the confirmation key is pressed by the operator). By such an operation, even if fuel cartridges of different fuel types are installed, it is possible to perform proper power generation without wasting fuel.

  In an actual use environment, the fuel cartridge 20 is expected to be removed from the power supply system during power generation by the fuel cell 300 for the purpose of diverting the fuel cartridge 20 to other devices. Therefore, with reference to FIG. 5, a countermeasure when the fuel cartridge 20 is removed during power generation of the fuel cell will be described below.

  When the fuel cartridge 20 is removed during the power generation of the fuel cell, the delay timer in the control board starts counting while the power generation by the fuel cell 300 is continued (step S610). Until the delay timer count becomes full, a display indicating the remaining fuel error blinks, and the operator is informed that the remaining fuel amount is low.

  During this time, if the fuel cartridge is replaced with a new one, or if the fuel level is replaced with a fuel level higher than the position of the lower limit position sensor 70, the sequence proceeds to step S630 in the determination of step S620. However, if the fuel cartridge is not replaced and the delay timer count reaches the full value (step S640), the remaining fuel error display is lit. In addition, the CPU 200 determines that it is no longer possible to supply power from the power supply system to the load device 520, and a power supply capability error or a fuel supply request is displayed on the display panel 250. Further, the fact that the output from the power supply system has been stopped is displayed on the display panel 250, and the power supply from the power supply system to the load device 520 is stopped. Further, power generation by the fuel cell 300 and charging of the secondary battery 320 are also stopped. Note that the full value of the delay timer count described above corresponds to the predicted time until the fuel concentration in the circulation tank 360 reaches the power generation limit value.

  On the other hand, when the fuel cartridge 20 is removed while the fuel cell 300 is not generating power, the CPU 200 determines that power supply from the power supply system to the load device 520 is impossible, and the power supply capability An error lights up and a fuel cartridge replacement request is displayed. Further, it is displayed that the output from the power supply system is stopped, the power supply from the power supply system to the load device 520 is stopped, and the power generation operation by the fuel cell 300 and the charging operation to the secondary battery 320 are also stopped. . The return from such a state is performed by turning on the power switch again.

  In the above description, when the fuel cartridge is removed, a method for predicting the time until the fuel concentration in the circulation tank 360 is reduced to the power generation limit value and performing the corresponding process has been shown. However, separately from this, the corresponding processing may be performed by directly detecting the fuel concentration in the fuel circulation path 305A. In this case, the measurement accuracy of the residual fuel concentration is increased, and the accuracy of determining whether to stop power generation can be increased.

  Hereinafter, such a method will be described in more detail.

  When the fuel cartridge 20 is removed during power generation of the fuel cell, measurement of the fuel concentration is started by the concentration sensor provided in the circulation tank 360 and the fuel cell 300. In addition, a remaining fuel error is displayed on the display panel 250 and the operator is informed that the remaining fuel amount is low. During this time, power generation in the fuel cell 300 is continued. During this time, if the fuel cartridge is replaced with a new one or a fuel liquid level higher than the lower limit position sensor 70, power generation by the fuel cell is continued and the remaining fuel error display is turned off.

  On the other hand, when the state in which the fuel cartridge is not installed continues, when the measured value by the concentration sensor provided in the circulation tank 360 and the fuel cell 300 is reduced to the power generation limit value, the remaining fuel error is displayed. In addition, the CPU 200 determines that power cannot be supplied from the power supply system to the load device 520, and a power supply capability error or a fuel supply request is displayed. Furthermore, it is displayed that the output from the power supply system is stopped, and the power supply from the power supply system to the load device 520 is stopped. Further, power generation by the fuel cell 300 and charging of the secondary battery 320 are also stopped. The power generation limit value mentioned above refers to the minimum fuel concentration that does not damage the fuel cell.

  On the other hand, when the fuel cartridge 20 is removed while the fuel cell 300 is not generating power, the CPU 200 determines that power supply from the power supply system to the load device 520 is impossible, and a power supply capacity error is displayed. A fuel cartridge replacement request is displayed. Further, it is displayed that the output from the power supply system is stopped, the power supply from the power supply system to the load device 520 is stopped, and the power generation operation by the fuel cell 300 and the charging operation to the secondary battery 320 are also stopped. .

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 6, liquid level sensors 660 and 670 are provided in the circulation tank 360 and the water tank 450, respectively, and even if the liquid levels in both tanks are directly monitored by these liquid level sensors. good. This makes it possible to detect fuel and water supply failures, piping failures, and the like at an early stage. Alternatively, the same effects as those of the liquid level sensors 660 and 670 can be obtained by measuring the fuel concentration in the fuel circulation path.

  However, if the fuel concentration shows a low value even after the fuel pump 340 is operated, there is some abnormality in the fuel supply system (for example, a problem related to fuel supply due to an abnormality in the fuel pump 340 or air in the piping). It is determined that it occurred. Therefore, in this case, the fuel supply error and the canceling method thereof are displayed on the display panel 250, and the power generation of the fuel cell 300 is stopped. Similarly, even if the water pump 460 is operated, if the fuel concentration shows a high value, there is some abnormality in the water supply system (for example, due to an abnormality in the water pump 460, air in the piping, water freezing, etc.) It is determined that a problem with water supply has occurred. Accordingly, in this case, the water supply error and the canceling method are displayed on the display panel 250, and the power generation of the fuel cell 300 is stopped. The return from such a stopped state is performed by turning on the power supply of the power supply system again after eliminating the factor causing the malfunction.

  Even if the remaining amount of fuel is sufficient immediately after installation of the fuel cartridge, the fuel is gradually consumed by the subsequent operation of the fuel cell. Therefore, even when the remaining amount of fuel falls below the position of the lower limit position sensor 70 due to fuel consumption, a warning message indicating that fuel supply will be stopped in the near future is displayed on the display panel 250. Further, if the power generation is further continued in this state, the fuel in the fuel cartridge is exhausted, and the fuel concentration in the fuel circulation path 305A reaches a value below the power generation limit. When the power supply system reaches this state, a fuel supply error is displayed (for example, an error is displayed on the display panel). Further, if the power generation is continued in this state, there is a risk that the fuel cell 300 will break down. Therefore, an operation for stopping the power generation of the power supply system is executed, and a power supply capacity error or a fuel cartridge replacement request is displayed. Further, it is displayed that the output is stopped, the power supply from the power supply system to the load device 520 is stopped, and the power generation by the fuel cell 300 and the charging to the secondary battery 320 are also stopped.

  However, even if the power supply capability from the fuel cell 300 is lost, the secondary battery 320 may have a sufficient power supply capability for the load device 520 in some cases. In that case, stopping the entire system is not preferable in terms of efficiency.

  Therefore, in order to increase the efficiency of the system, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 6, the voltage of the secondary battery 320 is measured by a voltmeter 321 provided in parallel with the secondary battery 320, and the measurement result is transmitted to the CPU 200. It is preferable to provide the function to perform. By providing such a function, when the secondary battery 320 has a sufficient power supply capability to the load device 520 even when the power supply by the fuel cell 300 cannot be performed, the voltage of the secondary battery 320 is reduced. It is possible to supply power to the load device until the limit value is reached. Furthermore, even if a recovery operation such as replacement of the fuel cartridge takes some time, the power supply system is not stopped, and a convenient power supply system can be obtained.

  However, conversely, even when the capacity of the secondary battery 320 exceeds a predetermined value, a device that consumes a large amount of current as the load device 520 may be connected to the secondary battery 320. In this case, the capacity of the secondary battery is expected to rapidly decrease in a short time. Therefore, if the amount of current supplied to the load device 520 exceeds a preset value, the fuel cell 300 can be used as long as the fuel cell has sufficient power generation capability even if the capacity of the secondary battery 320 exceeds a predetermined value. It is preferable to continue the charging of the secondary battery 320. At this time, a direct current voltmeter 321 is provided in series with the secondary battery and / or a temperature sensor (not shown) is provided on the surface of the secondary battery so that the secondary battery is not overcharged or brought into a high temperature state. May not be provided). Accordingly, the secondary battery charging switch 510 can be controlled while the CPU 200 monitors the measurement values of these devices.

  FIG. 8 schematically shows a state when the power supply system 3 according to the present invention (the power supply system 1 in FIG. 1 or the power supply system 2 in FIG. 6 described above) is connected to the printer 521.

  The power supply system 3 is equipped with the fuel cartridge 20 having the above-described characteristics. The power supply system 3 is provided with such a fuel cartridge take-out button 21. Further, the power supply system has a display panel 250 as described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 6, and various errors and messages are displayed on the display panel 250. That is, the display panel 250 is provided with the error display lamp 252, the power lamp 254, the fuel cell movable display lamp 256, and the like as described above. Further, the display panel 250 is provided with a confirmation key 262 and a cancel key 264, a display unit 258 for displaying a message, and an arrow key 260.

The power supply system 3 is connected to the back surface of the printer 521 using, for example, a plurality of brackets 5 provided on the side portion. At this time, the electrical connection unit 6 installed on the side of the power supply system 3 is connected to the electronic circuit of the printer 521. Thereby, power can be supplied from the power supply system 3 to the printer 521.
(Second power supply system)
Next, a second power supply system according to the present invention will be described. FIG. 9 shows an example of the configuration of the second power supply system according to the present invention.

  The second power supply system 1001 according to the present invention is basically configured similarly to the power supply system 1 described above. Therefore, in FIG. 9, the same reference numerals as those in FIG. 1 are added with the reference numerals of the members in FIG.

  The second power supply system 1001 has at least two fuel cells (stacks) using different fuels. In the example of FIG. 9, the second power supply system 1001 includes a first fuel cell 1300A and a second fuel cell 1300B. Further, the second power supply system 1001 includes auxiliary devices for operating these fuel cells and various members (pipes, valves, etc.) (details will be described later). In addition, the second power supply system 1001 includes a control unit 1310 including a CPU 1200 and a control circuit, and a secondary battery 1320. The control unit 1310 manages operations of various members provided in the power supply system 1001 and plays a role of controlling them. However, in FIG. 9, each wiring connecting the various members and the control unit 1310 is omitted for easy viewing of the drawing.

  In the power supply system 1001, it is necessary to supply fuel from one fuel storage means (hereinafter referred to as a fuel cartridge) 1330 to a plurality of fuel cells (stack 1300A, stack 1300B). Is significantly different from the power supply system described above. First, the configuration of the fuel supply path in the power supply system 1001 will be described.

  As for the fuel supply path, the main fuel supply path 1305 starting from the cartridge insertion hole of the fuel cartridge 1330 is bifurcated between the first fuel cell fuel supply path 1305A and the second fuel cell fuel supply path 1305B. Configured. The first fuel cell fuel supply path 1305A is finally connected to the anode of the first fuel cell 1300A, and the second fuel cell fuel supply path 1305B is finally connected to the anode of the second fuel cell 1300B. . A fuel suction three-way switching valve 1905 is installed in the main fuel supply path 1305. The first fuel cell fuel supply path 1305A and the second fuel cell fuel supply path 1305B include a first fuel valve 1860A and a first fuel cell auxiliary device 1800A, and a second fuel valve 1860B and a second fuel cell, respectively. A supplementary device 1800B is installed. The fuel discharged from the first fuel cell 1300A is returned to the first fuel cell auxiliary device 1800A through the first circulation path 1306A. Similarly, the fuel discharged from the second fuel cell 1300B is returned to the second fuel cell auxiliary device 1800B through the second circulation path 1306B.

  A fuel suction three-way switching valve 1905 installed in the main fuel supply path 1305 is connected to the first position where the main fuel supply path 1305 is connected to the cartridge 1330, and the main fuel supply path 1305 is connected to the fuel recovery path 1902. The second position can be switched. The fuel recovery path 1902 has one end connected to the fuel suction three-way switching valve 1905 and the other end connected to a fuel waste bag 1900 provided in the fuel cartridge 1330. A fuel suction pump 1910 is installed in the middle of the fuel recovery path 1902.

  Next, the configuration of the oxidant supply path and the oxidant discharge path in the power supply system 1001 will be described.

  The main oxidant supply path 1405 starting from the blower 1410 is divided into two oxidant supply paths: a first fuel cell oxidant supply path 1405A and a second fuel cell oxidant supply path 1405B. It is also configured by branching. The first fuel cell oxidant supply path 1405A and the second fuel cell oxidant supply path 1405B are connected to the cathodes of the first fuel cells 1300A and 1300B, respectively.

  On the other hand, the oxidant discharged from the first fuel cell 1300A is discharged through the discharge path configured by the first fuel cell radiator 1440A, the first fuel cell water tank 1450A, and the first fuel cell water pump 1460A. This discharge path is finally connected to the first fuel cell auxiliary device 1800A. Similarly, the oxidant discharged from the second fuel cell 1300B is discharged through the discharge path configured by the second fuel cell radiator 1440B, the second fuel cell water tank 1450B, and the second fuel cell water pump 1460B. . This discharge path is finally connected to the second fuel cell auxiliary device 1800B.

  Next, the configuration of the first fuel cell auxiliary device will be described. Since the second fuel cell auxiliary device is basically configured in the same manner as the first fuel cell auxiliary device, description of the configuration is omitted. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a configuration of the first fuel cell auxiliary device 1800A of the second power supply system 1001 and the vicinity thereof.

  The first fuel cell auxiliary device 1800A includes a first fuel cell fuel tank 1801A, a first fuel cell fuel circulation tank 1360A, and various pumps.

  More specifically, the first fuel cell fuel supply path 1305A branched from the main fuel supply path 1305 is connected to the first fuel cell fuel tank 1801A via the main fuel pump 1339A. The first fuel cell fuel tank 1801A is connected to the first fuel cell fuel circulation tank 1360A via a pipe, and the first fuel cell fuel pump 1340A is installed in the middle of the pipe. The The first fuel cell fuel circulation tank 1360A is connected to the first fuel cell 1300A via another pipe, and a first fuel cell fuel circulation pump 1350A is provided in the middle thereof. The first fuel cell fuel circulation tank 1360A is also connected to the first fuel cell water tank 1450A via the first fuel cell water pump 1460A.

  In FIG. 10, reference numerals 1802A, 1660A, and 1670A denote liquid level sensors of the first fuel cell fuel tank 1801A, the first fuel cell circulation tank 1360A, and the first fuel cell water tank 1450A, respectively. These functions are the same as those of the liquid level sensors 660 and 670 shown in FIGS.

  In addition, the power supply system 1001 includes other members such as a display panel 1250 and a ROM 1220. However, since the structure of these members is the same as that of the power supply system 1 described above, it will not be further described here.

  Next, an operation method of the second power supply system 1001 configured as described above will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. FIG. 11 shows a flowchart for operating the second power supply system. However, the basic operation of the second power supply system 1001 is the same as that of the power supply system 1 described above. Therefore, here, the operation of the second power supply system 1001 will be described focusing on the operation specific to the second power supply system 1001.

  First, when the start switch is turned on, the power lamp of the power supply system 1001 (see the power lamp 254 in FIG. 8) is turned on (step S1410).

  Next, it is confirmed whether or not the fuel cartridge 1330 is mounted (step S1420). If it cannot be confirmed that the fuel cartridge 1330 is mounted, the subsequent power generation operation of the fuel cell is not performed. On the other hand, when the mounting of the fuel cartridge 1330 is confirmed, the reading sensor reads the authentication information installed in the fuel cartridge 1330, and thereby information on the fuel cartridge 1330 (fuel type, manufacturer, model number, product) Number).

  Next, the information stored in advance in the ROM 1220 of the power supply system is compared with the read information (step S1510). Here, if the comparison between the two confirms that the installed fuel cartridge 1330 is a genuine product, the CPU 1200 determines which fuel cell the fuel contained in the fuel cartridge 1330 is for. Select an appropriate fuel cell. Of the parameters relating to the operation of the fuel cell stored in advance in the ROM 1220, those that match the read information (type of fuel, fuel concentration, etc.) are selected. Further, this parameter is set in the register of the fuel cell auxiliary device corresponding to the compatible fuel cell. It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that this parameter includes, for example, the amount of fuel supplied to the fuel cell and the amount of oxidant supplied.

  On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the installed fuel cartridge is not a genuine product, the operator is notified through the display panel 1250 that a non-regular fuel cartridge has been set. In this case, the fuel cell is not started.

  Further, in the fuel cartridge checking operation, when the fuel type included in the installed fuel cartridge is different from the fuel type of the fuel cartridge set immediately before, the fuel is prevented from being mixed in the main fuel supply path 1305. Treatment is performed. This will be described later.

  On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the fuel contained in the fuel cartridge is the same as the fuel used last time, such treatment is not performed. In this case, in the next step, the capacity of the secondary battery 1320 is confirmed by the voltmeter 1321 (step S1550). At this time, the load on / off switch 1509 (see FIG. 9) is turned off.

  Here, the remaining capacity of the secondary battery 1320 is a specified value (for example, the minimum capacity that can start and maintain the fuel cell + margin) because the power supply system 1001 has been left unused for a long time without the fuel cartridge 1330 installed. ), The operator is informed through the display panel 1250 that the capacity of the secondary battery is insufficient. Further, the operator is instructed to replace the existing secondary battery with a secondary battery having a capacity capable of starting a pump and a blower. The power supply system 1001 is stopped until the secondary battery is replaced by the operator and the error is released.

  On the other hand, when the secondary battery has a specified capacity (for example, minimum capacity for starting and maintaining the fuel cell + margin) or more, the following liquid amount check of the fuel cartridge 1330 is performed (step S1600). ).

  The liquid amount confirmation of the fuel cartridge is performed by the three sensors 50, 60, and 70 described above. Here, when it is confirmed that the amount of liquid in the fuel cartridge 1330 is sufficient, the power supply system 1001 shifts to preparation for power generation by the selected fuel cell. However, if the fuel in the fuel cartridge 1330 is insufficient, the operator is informed via the display panel 1250 that the fuel is insufficient. When the fuel cartridge 1330 is replaced, the amount of liquid in the fuel cartridge 1330 is confirmed again, and the fuel shortage indication disappears.

  Next, power generation preparation for the selected fuel cell is performed. First, the load switch 1509 is turned off to put the fuel cell in a no-load state. In order to prepare for the supply of fuel from the fuel cartridge 1330, the three-way switching valve 1905 is arranged in the direction from the fuel cartridge 1330 to the main fuel supply path 1305 (the above-mentioned first fuel supply path 1305 so that fuel can be supplied from the fuel cartridge 1330. Position).

Next, the fuel supply path is configured so that the fuel is supplied to the selected fuel cell. For example, when the fuel contained in the fuel cartridge 1330 is methanol and the first fuel cell 1300A is a fuel cell for methanol fuel, the first fuel valve 1860A is opened (the second fuel valve 1860B is closed), and Thus, a fuel supply path is formed from the fuel cartridge 1330 to the main fuel supply path 1305 to the first fuel cell fuel supply path 1305A to the first fuel cell 1300A. On the other hand, when the fuel contained in the fuel cartridge 1330 is ethanol and the second fuel cell 1300B is a fuel cell for ethanol fuel, the second fuel valve 1860B is opened (the first fuel valve 1860A is closed), and As a result, fuel supply paths from the fuel cartridge 1330 to the main fuel supply path 1305 to the second fuel cell fuel supply path 1305B to the second fuel cell 1300B are formed. (In the following description, the selected fuel cell is referred to as the first fuel cell 1300A for convenience.)
Similarly, by switching the three-way switching valve 1406, an oxidant supply path from the blower 1410 to the main oxidant supply path 1405 to the first fuel cell oxidant supply path 1405A to the first fuel cell 1300A is formed.

  Next, as described above, power generation of the first fuel cell 1300A is started based on the parameters set in the register of the first fuel cell auxiliary device 1800A corresponding to the compatible first fuel cell 1300A. More specifically, for example, the amount of fuel supplied to the first fuel cell 1300A is controlled. Although not shown in each figure, for this operation, the power supply system includes various control means such as a flow rate adjusting valve, and the state of these members is determined based on the parameters set in the register. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that it is controlled.

  In step S1550 described above, if the secondary battery has a specified capacity (for example, the minimum capacity for starting and maintaining the fuel cell + margin) or more, but is not fully charged, the secondary battery is charged. Is done. Even when the secondary battery is in a fully charged state, when the load current monitored by the ammeter 1321 changes greatly and the average current per unit time exceeds a predetermined value, The secondary battery 1320 is charged.

  The fuel introduced into the first fuel cell 1300A is used for the power generation reaction of the fuel cell. Thereafter, unreacted fuel that has not been used for the power generation reaction is discharged from the fuel cell. Since the alcohol fuel contained in the exhaust fuel has a low concentration, when the exhaust fuel is returned to the circulation tank 1360A, the fuel concentration in the circulation tank 1360A decreases. Therefore, the fuel concentration in the circulation tank 1360A is monitored by the CPU 1200 via a concentration sensor or the like, and when this concentration changes, fuel is supplied from the fuel tank 1801A to the circulation tank 1360A as necessary.

  The amount of fuel supplied to the circulation tank 1360A is calculated from the relationship between the operating time of the pump 1340A stored in the ROM in advance (= the amount of fuel delivered) and the change in fuel concentration in the circulation tank 1360A. The Thereby, the alcohol fuel in the circulation tank 1360A can be maintained at a constant concentration.

On the other hand, the water generated on the cathode side of the first fuel cell 1300A is cooled by the radiator 1440A and collected in the water tank 1450A. The recovered water is returned to the circulation tank 1360A as necessary.
(When the amount of liquid in the fuel cartridge is insufficient)
In the second power supply system 1001, when the remaining amount of fuel in the fuel cartridge 1330 decreases and the liquid level falls below the lowest sensor 70, the display unit blinks.

If power generation by the fuel cell is continued in such a state, the fuel in the cartridge will be exhausted. Therefore, in this case, the power supply capacity error is lit and a request for replacement of the fuel cartridge 1330 is displayed. If this state continues, the power supply from the power supply system to the load device is stopped, and the power generation operation by the fuel cell and the charging operation to the secondary battery are also stopped. This is displayed on the display panel 1250.
(When using a fuel cartridge filled with different types of fuel)
As described above, if the power generation by the fuel cell is continued, the fuel in the fuel cartridge is consumed, so that a replacement with a new fuel cartridge is required. Next, an operation method of the power supply system 1001 when the existing fuel cartridge is replaced with a fuel cartridge filled with fuel different from the fuel used immediately before will be described.

  As shown in the flowchart of FIG. 11, first, the start switch is turned on and a power lamp is displayed.

  Next, it is confirmed that the fuel cartridge has been installed (replaced). In addition, it is confirmed from the authentication information installed in the fuel cartridge that the fuel cartridge is filled with a different type of fuel from the previous one. Further, based on this authentication information, an appropriate operation parameter corresponding to the new fuel stored in the ROM 1220 is read out and set in the register of the corresponding fuel cell auxiliary device.

  As described above, when the installed fuel cartridge is improper, such as a non-genuine product, the non-genuine fuel cartridge is installed to the operator through the display panel 1250. It will be announced.

Next, when proper operating parameters are set in the auxiliary register, in order to prevent fuel from being mixed in the main fuel supply pipe 1305, an existing fuel recovery operation is performed as follows. .
(Fuel recovery operation)
The fuel recovery operation is performed using a fuel waste liquid bag 1900, a fuel suction three-way switching valve 1905, and a fuel suction pump 1910.

  First, the load on / off switch 1509 of the fuel cell in FIG. 9 is turned off. Also, the two fuel valves 1860A and 1860B are closed. Further, the fuel suction three-way switching valve 1905 is set to the second position (that is, the position where the main fuel supply path 1305 is connected to the fuel recovery path 1902).

  Next, the fuel suction pump 1910 is operated, and the fuel remaining in the main fuel supply pipe 1305 is sucked. The sucked fuel is collected in a fuel waste liquid bag 1900 provided in the fuel cartridge 1330.

  Next, the fuel suction three-way switching valve 1905 is in the first position (position where the main fuel supply path 1305 is connected to the cartridge 1330 so that fuel can be supplied from the fuel cartridge 1330 toward the main fuel supply pipe 1305. ). Further, the second fuel valve 1860B is opened.

Thereafter, power generation is started by the second fuel cell 1300B based on the parameter value set in the register of the second fuel cell auxiliary device. Note that, as described above, the capacity of the secondary battery 1320 is confirmed prior to power generation.
(Power generation by secondary battery)
The basic operation of the second power supply system 1001 according to the present invention has been described above. Actually, even when the fuel in the fuel cartridge 1330 is insufficient and it is difficult to continue the power generation by the selected fuel cell, the secondary battery 1320 has a sufficient capacity. In some cases, power supply by the power supply system 1001 is possible. In such a case, stopping the power supply system 1001 is inefficient in terms of usage efficiency.

For this reason, in the power supply system 1001, the voltage of the secondary battery 1320 is monitored by the voltmeter 1321, and it is significant to supply power by the secondary battery 1320 until the capacity of the secondary battery 1320 decreases to a predetermined value. is there. In this case, even if the operator takes time to replace the fuel cartridge 1330, it is not necessary to stop the power supply system 1001. Therefore, it is possible to provide a highly convenient power supply system.
(Aging process)
Next, an aging process in the second power supply system 1001 will be described.

  First, when the fuel type contained in the newly installed fuel cartridge is different from the default, the operator is informed via the display panel 1250 that a fuel cartridge different from the default fuel cartridge has been set ( Step S1530: A state of waiting for pressing of the confirmation key is entered).

  Next, when the confirmation key is pressed by the operator, the default information is rewritten to the information of the newly installed fuel cartridge.

  However, at this time, the last used fuel remains in the main fuel supply path 1305. Therefore, in order to avoid mixing of the fuel, it is necessary to discharge the remaining fuel in the main fuel supply path 1305.

  For this reason, the fuel recovery operation as described above is performed. Alternatively, an air intake valve 1950 (see FIG. 9) may be provided at any position in the main fuel supply path 1305. The other end of the air intake valve 1950 serves as an air intake or is connected to the air intake. In such a configuration, the fuel suction three-way switching valve 1905 and the second fuel valve 1860B are closed before a new fuel cartridge is installed in the power supply system (that is, before the existing fuel cartridge is removed). Or confirmed to be closed. Further, it is confirmed that the first fuel valve 1860A is opened or closed. Next, the air intake valve 1950 is opened and the main fuel pump 1339A is operated. Thus, the fuel remaining in the main fuel supply path 1305 can be moved toward the fuel tank 1801A.

  When the discharge of the remaining fuel in the main fuel supply path 1305 is completed, power generation by the second fuel cell 1300B is started according to the changed power generation parameter.

  Note that immediately after the power generation by the second fuel cell 1300B, the fuel cell changeover switch 1940 remains on the previous first fuel cell 1300A side. Also, the load on / off switch 1509 remains on. Accordingly, power supply from the first fuel cell 1300A to the load device 1320 is continued for a while.

  Next, when it is confirmed from the output voltage and / or stack temperature of the second fuel cell 1300B that the fuel cell has become stable, the fuel cell changeover switch 1940 is switched to the second fuel cell 1300B side. Note that the load switch 1509 is kept on, so that power can be supplied from the second fuel cell 1300B to the load device.

  Further, when the output voltage of the secondary battery 1320 is confirmed and the capacity of the secondary battery is not sufficient (for example, in a state other than full charge), when the second fuel cell 1300B is in a stable power generation state, The secondary battery 1320 is charged.

  During charging, the output voltage of the secondary battery 1320 and the fuel concentration in the fuel circulation path 1306B are monitored. Then, when the fuel concentration in the fuel circulation path 1306B is lowered to such a concentration that charging of the secondary battery 1320 becomes insufficient, charging of the secondary battery 1320 is terminated.

  In order to shorten the rise time of the fuel cell, the load current may be gradually increased by changing the load resistance using a dummy load (not shown). Alternatively, the concentration of fuel supplied to the fuel cell may be made higher than during normal power generation.

Further, during the aging process, even if a message indicating that the power supply system 1001 is in the aging process is displayed on the display panel 1250 in order to avoid the power supply of the power supply system 1001 being turned off by the operator. good.
(Fuel cartridge default information update function)
When the fuel cartridge 1330 is replaced or the power supply system 1001 is turned on, executing the fuel recovery operation as described above leads to longer start-up time and is not preferable in terms of fuel consumption. .

  Therefore, it is preferable that the second power supply system 1001 is also provided with a default information update function like the power supply system 1 described above. As a result, unless otherwise specifically operated, power generation from the next time onward can be performed based on the power generation parameters relating to the fuel. Therefore, the aging process becomes unnecessary until the fuel cartridge 1330 is replaced with a cartridge filled with a different type of fuel, and waste of fuel and time is avoided.

  For example, when the operator installs the fuel cartridge 1330 in the power supply system 1001, information on the fuel type is read from the authentication information provided in the fuel cartridge by the reading sensor. Further, the default designation information read from the ROM 1220 to the nonvolatile memory element (SRAM) is compared with the information read from the fuel cartridge.

  Here, when both pieces of information match, the power generation parameter set in the register immediately before is used as it is. That is, according to the power generation parameter information set in the register, the fuel supply amount, the air supply amount, etc. to the selected fuel cell are determined.

  On the other hand, if the two information are different as a result of comparison, the operator is informed via the display panel 1250 that a fuel cartridge different from the default fuel cartridge has been installed. At this time, when the confirmation key is pressed by the operator, the CPU 1200 determines that the fuel has been intentionally changed, and the power generation parameters relating to the new fuel are read from the ROM 1220 and set in the control register. The subsequent operation is as described above (when using a fuel cartridge filled with different types of fuel). On the other hand, when an unintended fuel cartridge is installed by mistake, the confirmation operation may be canceled by the operator.

The second power supply system has been described above. In such a power supply system including at least two fuel cells, for example, if the fuel in the main fuel supply path 1305 is discharged by the operation described in the above (Fuel recovery operation), the second power supply system for external power feeding is used. Even if fuel remains in the fuel supply path 1305A connected to the one fuel cell 1300A, the power supply fuel cell can be switched. Accordingly, rapid power supply is possible even when the fuel cartridge is replaced.
(Third power supply system)
Next, a third power supply system according to the present invention will be described. FIG. 12 shows an example of the configuration of the third power supply system according to the present invention.

  The third power supply system 2001 according to the present invention is basically configured similarly to the second power supply system 1001 described above. Accordingly, in FIG. 12, members similar to those in FIG. 9 are given reference numerals obtained by adding 1000 to the reference numerals of the members in FIG.

  The third power supply system 2001 is characterized in that a plurality of fuel cartridges can be arranged. In the example of FIG. 12, the third power supply system 2001 includes a first fuel cartridge 2330A and a second fuel cartridge 2330B. The fuel contained in the first and second fuel cartridges may be the same or different. FIG. 13 shows, as an example, a schematic external view of a third power supply system 2001 in which fuel cartridges 2330A and 2330B are mounted in two fuel cartridge insertion holes 2030A and 2030B, respectively.

  In addition, it is preferable that the shape (especially the shape of the part installed in an insertion hole) of a fuel cartridge is the same. Moreover, it is preferable that each fuel cartridge insertion hole is the same shape. This eliminates the need to confirm the mounting position for each fuel cartridge.

  Hereinafter, the third power supply system 2001 will be described in detail focusing on the configuration of the fuel supply path and the oxidant supply path.

  The third power supply system 2001 includes two fuel cartridges 2330A and 2330B mounted in the two fuel cartridge insertion holes 2030A and 2030B. The insertion holes 2030A and 2030B are connected to the same piping path 2990 via a three-way valve 2760. In addition to this piping path 2990, a main fuel supply path 2305 is connected to the three-way valve 2760. That is, via the three-way valve 2760, the first fuel cartridge 2330A to the main fuel supply path 2305 line (first line), the second fuel cartridge 2330B to the main fuel supply path 2305 line (second line) ) And are formed. Accordingly, the first line / second line can be switched by controlling the position of the three-way valve 2760.

  The main fuel supply path 2305 is connected to another three-way valve 2770 via a fuel pump 2765. The three-way valve 2770 is connected to the first fuel cell fuel supply path 2305A and the second fuel cell fuel supply path 2305B. Similar to the second power supply system described above, the first fuel cell fuel supply path 2305A includes a first fuel cell fuel tank 2801A, a first fuel cell fuel pump 2340A, a first fuel cell fuel circulation tank 2360A, The first fuel cell 2300A extends to the first fuel cell 2300A via the first fuel cell fuel circulation pump 2350A. Further, the fuel supply path 2305B for the second fuel cell has the same configuration.

  Therefore, by controlling the position of the three-way valve 2770, the connection path of the main fuel supply path 2305 can be switched between the fuel supply path 2305A for the first fuel cell and the fuel supply path 2305B for the second fuel cell. .

  On the other hand, the third power supply system 2001 includes two oxidant supply paths, ie, a first fuel cell oxidant supply path 2405A and a second fuel cell oxidant supply path 2405B as oxidant supply paths. The first fuel cell oxidant supply path 2405A has one end connected to the first blower 2410A and the other end connected to the cathode side of the first fuel cell 2300A. Further, the oxidant discharged from the first fuel cell 2300A is discharged through a discharge path configured by the first fuel cell radiator 2440A, the first fuel cell water tank 2450A, and the first fuel cell water pump 2460A. This discharge path is finally connected to the first fuel cell fuel circulation tank 2360A. It will be apparent from FIG. 12 that the second fuel cell oxidant supply path 2405B and the oxidant discharge path from the second fuel cell are similarly configured.

In addition, the third power supply system 2001 includes a control unit 2310 including a CPU 2200 and a control circuit, and a secondary battery 2320 (not shown in FIG. 12). The control unit 2310 manages operations of various members provided in the power supply system 2001 and plays a role of controlling them. However, in FIG. 12, wirings connected to various members are omitted for easy viewing of the drawing.
(basic action)
Next, a basic operation of the third power supply system 2001 will be described.

  The third power supply system 2001 can freely select a combination of the two fuel cartridges 2330A and 2330B and the two fuel cells 2300A and 2300B by switching the three-way valves 2760 and 2770.

Hereinafter, the operation of the third power supply system 2001 will be described by taking two typical cases as examples.
(Case 1)
When the fuel stored in the two fuel cartridges 2330A and 2330B is the same, and the first fuel cell 2300A supports this fuel, the power supply system 2001 operates as follows.

  First, the three-way valve 2760 is adjusted to form the aforementioned first line (first fuel cartridge 2330A to main fuel supply path 2305). The main fuel supply path 2305 is connected to the first fuel cell fuel supply path 2305A by the three-way valve 2770.

  Thereafter, the first fuel cell 2300A generates power by the same operation as that of the second power supply system 2001 described above.

Thereafter, when the amount of fuel in the first fuel cartridge 2330A decreases and falls below a predetermined level, the three-way valve 2760 causes the first line to become the second line (second fuel cartridge 2330B to main fuel). The line of the supply path 2305). Also, the operator is notified via the display panel 2258 (see FIG. 13) that the fuel cartridge has been switched. Thus, the operator can replace the first fuel cartridge 2330A at an arbitrary timing.
(Case 2)
On the other hand, when the fuel stored in the two fuel cartridges 2330A and 2330B is different, the first fuel cell 2300A corresponds to the fuel in the fuel cartridge 2330A, and the second fuel cell 2300B is in the fuel cartridge 2330B. When the fuel is supported, the power supply system 2001 operates as follows.

  First, the three-way valve 2760 is adjusted to form the aforementioned first line (first fuel cartridge 2330A to main fuel supply path 2305). The main fuel supply path 2305 is connected to the first fuel cell fuel supply path 2305A by the three-way valve 2770.

  Thereafter, when the amount of fuel in the first fuel cartridge 2330A decreases and falls below a predetermined level, the three-way valve 2760 causes the first line to become the second line (second fuel cartridge 2330B to main fuel). The line of the supply path 2305). At the same time, the three-way valve 2770 is switched so that the fuel from the main fuel supply path 2305 flows through the second fuel cell fuel supply path 2305B. Also, the operator is notified via the display panel 2258 (see FIG. 13) that the fuel cartridge and the power generation fuel cell have been switched. Thus, the operator can replace the first fuel cartridge 2330A at an arbitrary timing. Note that a load on / off switch (not shown) may be temporarily turned off before switching the fuel cell to be used.

  Thus, in any case, the third power supply system 2001 can continue the power generation by the fuel cell even if the fuel in one fuel cartridge is reduced. Therefore, in the third power supply system 2001, the power generation duration is extended, and the frequency at which the power supply system is stopped for replacement of the fuel cartridge can be reduced.

  In case 2, the fuel cell for power generation is also switched when the fuel cartridge is switched. However, a certain amount of time is required until a newly used fuel cell enters a stable power generation state. . Therefore, the following measures may be taken in order to avoid the power supply of the power supply system 2001 being stopped for a long time when the fuel cell is switched.

  First, when the amount of fuel in the first fuel cartridge 2330A decreases and falls below the threshold level, power generation in the second fuel cell 2300B is started without switching between the fuel cartridge and the power generation fuel cell.

  At this stage, the fuel from the fuel cartridge 2330B cannot be supplied to the second fuel cell 2300B. Therefore, the fuel previously stored in the second fuel cell fuel circulation tank 2360B is supplied to the second fuel cell 2300B by the second fuel cell fuel circulation pump 2350B, and power is generated.

  Here, in a state where the fuel supply from the fuel cartridge 2330B is not performed, the fuel circulation tank 2360B is supplied with fuel up to its upper limit position so that the power generation of the second fuel cell 2300B can be performed for a long time. It is preferable to keep it. This can be realized by the following method, for example. The power generation of the second fuel cell 2300B is performed using the fuel from the second fuel cartridge 2330B, and when the power generation is completed, the fuel supply from the second fuel cartridge 2330B is not stopped for a while. During this time, the fuel is continuously supplied to the second fuel cell 2300B. In this case, the fuel is discharged from the second fuel cell 2300B without being used and stored in the fuel circulation tank 2360B for the second fuel cell. Accordingly, this allows a predetermined amount of fuel to be stored in the fuel circulation tank 2360B.

  Next, after the power generation in the second fuel cell 2300B is stabilized, the above-described switching by the three-way valves 2760 and 2770 is performed. When the main fuel cell of the power supply system is switched to the second fuel cell 2300B, the power generation of the first fuel cell 2300A is stopped.

  In addition, in order to shorten the time until the power generation in the second fuel cell 2300B is stabilized, the operation described in the second power supply system may be performed. That is, the reaction may be activated by increasing the concentration of fuel supplied to the second fuel cell 2300B or by connecting a dummy resistor to gradually increase the load current.

  Further, in the case 2 described above, when the fuel supply path connected to the main fuel supply path 2305 is suddenly switched from the first fuel cell fuel supply path 2305A to the second fuel cell fuel supply path 2305B, the main fuel is used until then. The fuel existing in the supply path 2305 is supplied to the fuel supply path 2305B for the second fuel cell.

  Therefore, before switching the three-way valve 2760 from the first line to the second line (and before switching the three-way valve 2770 to the fuel supply path 2305B side for the second fuel cell), the fuel pump 2765 is operated and the fuel is discharged. The fuel remaining in the supply path 2305 may be discharged up to the first fuel cell fuel tank 2801A. As a result, it is possible to avoid mixing different fuels in the main fuel supply path 2305.

As described above, in the third power supply system 2001, even when fuel is insufficient in one fuel cartridge, power generation of the fuel cell can be continued using another fuel cartridge. Therefore, the charging operation of the secondary battery is unlikely to be interrupted in the middle, and the secondary battery can be charged for a relatively long time. Therefore, this power supply system can stably supply power even when connected to a load device with high power consumption.
(Fourth power system)
FIG. 14 shows a fourth power supply system 2001M as a modification of the above-described third power supply system. The fourth power supply system 2001M includes a first fuel cartridge 2330A to a first fuel cell 2300A and a second fuel cartridge 2330B to a second fuel cell 2300B, as compared with the third power supply system 2001 described above. The difference is that it has two separate fuel supply paths. That is, in the fourth power supply system 2001M, the above-described three-way switching valves 2760 and 2770 are excluded.

  However, the other configuration of the fourth power supply system 2001M is the same as that of the third power supply system 2001, and those skilled in the art will know how to operate the power supply system 2001M from the description of the third power supply system 2001 described above. Can be easily predicted. Therefore, description of the configuration and operation of the fourth power supply system 2001M is omitted.

  In the fourth power supply system 2001M, one fuel cell (for example, 2300A) is used for main power generation, and the other fuel cell (for example, 2300B) is used for standby power generation during replacement of the fuel cartridge for the main power generation fuel cell. It can be used.

  In addition, such a configuration provides the following advantages.

  FIGS. 15 and 16 show an example of connection lines of the fuel cell, the secondary battery, the DC / DC converter, and the external load device in the fourth power supply system 2001M. In FIG. 15, the DC / DC converter is installed on the power supply system side, and in FIG. 16, the DC / DC converter is installed on the load device side.

  In the case of FIG. 15, the first fuel cell 2300A is connected to the input side of the DC / DC converter 1 when the load switch 2515A is turned on. The second fuel cell 2300B is connected to the input side of the DC / DC converter 2 when the load switch 2515B is turned on. Further, the first fuel cell 2300A and the second fuel cell 2300B are connected to the secondary battery 2320 by the changeover switch 2511.

  The output side of the DC / DC converter 1 can be connected to an external load device 2520 by switching both of the changeover switches 2517+ and 2517− to the DC / DC converter 1 side. Conversely, when both switches 2517+ and 2517− are switched to the DC / DC converter 2 side, the DC / DC converter 2 is connected to an external load device 2520. A changeover switch 2516 is interposed between the two DC / DC converters, and this changeover switch 2516 can be switched to the following two positions. One position is a position where the positive output of the DC / DC converter 2 is connected to the positive input of the external load device 2520 via the switch 2517+. Therefore, in this case, the output of the DC / DC converter 2 can be connected to the external load device 2520 by switching the switch 2517-to the DC / DC converter 2 side. The second position is a position where the negative output of the DC / DC converter 1 and the positive output of the DC / DC converter 2 are connected. In this case, the changeover switch 2517+ is switched to the DC / DC converter 1 side. By switching the switch 2517-to the DC / DC converter 2 side, the outputs of the two DC / DC converters can be combined and input to the external load device 2520.

  On the other hand, in the case of FIG. 16, the DC / DC converter 3 is provided on the external load device 2520 side. However, other configurations and features are the same as those in FIG.

  Therefore, in this power supply system, it is possible to use two fuel cells at the same time, and the power supply capability of the power supply system is improved. In addition, since the input / output of the DC / DC converter can be freely connected (in series / parallel), the load that can be handled by changing the output method of the power supply system according to the type of the external load device It is possible to increase the types of devices.

  Although not shown in the figure, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the power supply system according to the present invention may include, for example, a plurality of fuel cartridges and a single fuel cell. Also in this case, it is possible to extend the continuous operation time of the power supply system as in the third power supply system.

  The present invention can be applied to a power supply system including a fuel cell.

It is the figure which showed an example of the structure of the power supply system by this invention. It is the schematic of a fuel cartridge. It is the schematic of the structural member of the power supply system of the fuel cartridge and the vicinity of the position where this fuel cartridge is installed. 3 is a flowchart for operating a power supply system according to the present invention. 6 is another flowchart for operating the power supply system according to the present invention; It is the figure which showed an example of the structure of another power supply system by this invention. It is the figure which showed an example of the structure of the bypass line of a power supply. It is the figure which showed an example at the time of connecting the power supply system by this invention to a printer. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of the 2nd power supply system by this invention. It is a block diagram of the 1st fuel cell auxiliary device of the 2nd power supply system, and its vicinity. It is a flowchart for operating a 2nd power supply system. It is the figure which showed roughly an example of the structure of the 3rd power supply system by this invention. FIG. 10 is a schematic external view of a third power supply system 2001 to which fuel cartridges 2330A and 2330B are attached. It is the figure which showed roughly an example of the structure of the 4th power supply system by this invention. It is an example of a wiring diagram with the external load apparatus in a 4th power supply system. It is an example of a wiring diagram different from FIG.

Explanation of symbols

1, 2, 3 Power supply system 10 Identification code 10a Bar code 10b RFID
19 Alcohol fuel 20 Fuel cartridge 50, 60, 70 Sensor 100 Reading sensor 200 CPU
210 Display controller 220 ROM
240 Auxiliary equipment control register group 250 Display panel 300 Fuel cell 301 Power generation unit 305 Fuel supply path 305A Fuel circulation path 310 Control unit 320 Secondary battery 330 Fuel storage means 340 Fuel pump 350 Fuel circulation pump 360 Circulation tank 410 Blower 430 Fan 440 Radiator 450 Water tank 460 Water pump 520 Load device 521 Printer 610 (610A, 610B) Three-way valve 620 (620A, 620B) Retraction tank 630 (630A, 630B) Return pump 710 Power line 715 Power switch 720 Bypass line 725 Bypass line switch 1001 Second power supply system 1200 CPU
1300A 1st fuel cell 1300B 2nd fuel cell 1305 Main fuel supply path 1305A 1st fuel cell fuel supply path 1305B 2nd fuel cell fuel supply path 1306A 1st circulation path 1306B 2nd circulation path 1310 Control unit 1320 Secondary battery 1321 Voltmeter 1330 Fuel storage means (fuel cartridge)
1339A Main fuel pump (for the first fuel cell)
1340A 1st fuel cell fuel pump 1350A 1st fuel cell fuel circulation pump 1360A 1st fuel cell circulation tank 1405 main oxidant supply path 1405A 1st fuel cell oxidant supply path 1405B 2nd fuel cell oxidant supply Path 1406 Three-way switching valve 1410 Blower 1440A First fuel cell radiator 1440B Second fuel cell radiator 1450A First fuel cell water tank 1450B Second fuel cell water tank 1460A First fuel cell water pump 1460B Second fuel cell water pump 1509 Load on / off switch 1510 Secondary battery charging on / off switch 1800A First fuel cell auxiliary device 1800B Second fuel cell auxiliary device 1801A First fuel cell fuel tank 1860A First fuel valve 1860B Second fuel bar Bed 1900 fuel waste bag 1902 fuel recovery passage 1905 fuel suction three-way switching valve 1910 fuel suction pump 1940 fuel cell selector switch 1950 Inlet valve 2001 the third power supply system 2001M fourth power supply system 2200 CPU
2300A First fuel cell 2300B Second fuel cell 2305 Main fuel supply path 2305A First fuel cell fuel supply path 2305B Second fuel cell fuel supply path 2306A First circulation path 2306B Second circulation path 2320 Secondary battery 2330A First Fuel storage means (fuel cartridge)
2330B Second fuel storage means (fuel cartridge)
2340A 1st fuel cell fuel pump 2340B 2nd fuel cell fuel pump 2350A 1st fuel cell fuel circulation pump 2350B 2nd fuel cell fuel circulation pump 2360A 1st fuel cell fuel circulation tank 2360B 2nd fuel cell fuel Circulation tank 2405A First fuel cell oxidant supply path 2405B Second fuel cell oxidant supply path 2410A First blower 2410B Second blower 2430A First fan 2430B Second fan 2440A First fuel cell radiator 2440B Second fuel cell Radiator 2450A first fuel cell water tank 2450B second fuel cell water tank 2460A first fuel cell water pump 2460B second fuel cell water pump 2515A, 2515B load switch 2516 changeover switch 2517+, 2 517-Changeover switch 2520 Load device 2760, 2770 Three-way valve 2765, 2765A, 2765B Fuel pump 2801A Fuel tank for first fuel cell 2801B Fuel tank for second fuel cell.

Claims (40)

A fuel cell;
Removable fuel storage means filled with fuel;
A fuel supply path for supplying fuel from the fuel storage means to the fuel cell;
A power supply system comprising:
The fuel storage means has authentication information,
The power supply system further includes
Means for reading the authentication information;
Means for changing parameters necessary for power generation in the fuel cell based on the read authentication information;
A power supply system comprising:   2. The power supply system according to claim 1, wherein the means for changing a parameter required for power generation in the fuel cell includes a control means for controlling a supply amount of fuel supplied to the fuel cell. The fuel storage means stores alcohol fuel,
3. The power supply system according to claim 1, wherein the authentication information includes information related to a type of alcohol fuel stored in the fuel storage unit. And a secondary battery charged by the fuel cell and means for measuring the voltage of the secondary battery,
If the voltage of the secondary battery is less than a predetermined value, continue charging by the fuel cell until the voltage of the secondary battery reaches a predetermined value,
The power supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein when the voltage of the secondary battery is equal to or higher than a predetermined value, charging by the fuel cell is stopped.   The charging by the fuel cell is continued even when the voltage of the secondary battery is equal to or higher than a predetermined value when the current exceeding the threshold value flows from the secondary battery to the outside. 4. The power supply system according to 4.   When the voltage measurement result of the secondary battery by the means for measuring the voltage of the secondary battery is equal to or greater than the predetermined value, the secondary battery has the voltage until the voltage of the secondary battery falls below the predetermined value. The power supply system according to claim 4, wherein power supply to the outside is continued. Based on the read authentication information, means for changing parameters necessary for power generation in the fuel cell,
When the fuel storage means is replaced, the authentication information of the new fuel storage means is compared with the authentication information of the fuel storage means immediately before replacement,
The authentication information possessed by the fuel storage means immediately before the replacement is updated to the authentication information possessed by the newly installed fuel storage means when they are different from each other. The described power supply system. A part of the fuel supply path constitutes a fuel circulation path including the fuel cell without including the fuel storage means,
When the fuel storage means is replaced, the authentication information of the new fuel storage means is compared with the authentication information of the fuel storage means immediately before replacement, and if the two are different, the residual fuel in the fuel circulation path The power supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein power generation in the fuel cell is continued until a certain concentration or less is reached.   9. The power supply system according to claim 8, further comprising means for stopping fuel supply from the fuel storage means to the fuel cell until the residual fuel becomes a certain concentration or less.   The power supply system according to claim 8 or 9, further comprising a circuit capable of changing a capacity of a load device connected to the fuel cell until the residual fuel becomes a certain concentration or less. A part of the fuel supply path constitutes a fuel circulation path including the fuel cell without including the fuel storage means,
When the fuel storage means is replaced, the authentication information of the new fuel storage means is compared with the authentication information of the fuel storage means immediately before the replacement, and if they are different, the fuel included in the fuel circulation path Equipped with a tank to evacuate
The power supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein a plurality of the tanks are provided so as to be selectively used according to the type of fuel. When the fuel storage means is replaced, if the fuel contained in the replaced fuel storage means is different from the fuel contained in the fuel storage means immediately before replacement,
12. The power supply system according to claim 11, further comprising means for returning the fuel to the fuel circulation path from the tank in which a fuel of the same type as the fuel charged in the new fuel storage means is stored.   Before supplying the fuel filled in the new fuel storage means to the fuel cell, the same type of fuel stored in the tank as the fuel filled in the new fuel storage means is used. The power supply system according to claim 11 or 12.   The power supply system according to claim 13, wherein the amount of air supplied to the fuel cell gradually increases while the fuel stored in the tank is used in advance.   15. A display function for announcing that the fuel cell is undergoing an aging process during an aging process performed as a preliminary process in order to distribute new fuel into the fuel circulation path. The power supply system according to any one of the above. Furthermore, means for measuring the amount of liquid in the fuel storage means, and means for measuring the amount of power supplied from the fuel cell to a load device connected to the fuel cell,
The power source according to any one of claims 1 to 15, further comprising display means for calculating a remaining operation time of the fuel cell from results measured by both means and displaying the remaining operation time. system.   The power supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein when the fuel storage means is removed during power generation by the fuel cell, power generation by the fuel cell is continued for a predetermined time. . A fuel cell;
Removable fuel storage means filled with fuel;
A fuel supply path for supplying fuel from the fuel storage means to the fuel cell;
A method of operating a power supply system comprising:
Reading authentication information attached to the fuel storage means;
Changing parameters necessary for power generation in the fuel cell based on the read authentication information;
A method characterized by comprising:   The power supply system according to claim 18, wherein the step of changing a parameter necessary for power generation in the fuel cell includes a step of controlling a supply amount of fuel supplied to the fuel cell. The fuel storage means stores alcohol fuel,
The method according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the authentication information includes information on a type of alcohol fuel stored in the fuel storage means. A fuel cell;
Removable fuel storage means filled with fuel;
A fuel supply path for supplying fuel in the fuel storage means to the fuel cell;
Control means for controlling the amount of fuel supplied to the fuel cell;
A power supply system comprising:
The power supply system has a plurality of fuel cells,
The fuel storage means has authentication information including the type of fuel stored in the fuel storage means,
The power supply system further includes means for reading the authentication information,
The power supply system selects a fuel cell that supplies fuel contained in the fuel storage means from the plurality of fuel cells based on the read authentication information,
A power supply system, wherein the supply amount of fuel supplied to the selected fuel cell is controlled by the control means based on the read authentication information. The fuel storage means stores alcohol fuel,
The power supply system according to claim 21, wherein the authentication information includes information on a type of alcohol fuel stored in the fuel storage means. When the fuel storage means is replaced with a second fuel storage means in which another fuel is stored,
A different fuel cell is selected based on the authentication information read from the second fuel storage means, and the supply amount of fuel supplied to the different fuel cell is controlled by the control means. The power supply system according to claim 21 or 22. The second fuel storage means has a recovery means capable of recovering a fuel different from the stored fuel,
A switching valve is installed between the fuel supply path and the second fuel storage means,
The switching valve switches between a first position where the fuel stored in the second fuel storage means is supplied to the fuel supply path and a second position where the fuel supply path is connected to the recovery means. Can
When the fuel storage means is replaced with the second fuel storage means, the fuel contained in the fuel supply path is recovered by the recovery means by switching the switching valve to the second position. The power supply system according to claim 23. The power supply system further includes fuel storage means for each fuel cell,
When the fuel storage means is replaced with a second fuel storage means in which another fuel is stored, the fuel storage means replaces the fuel contained in the fuel supply path before the fuel storage means is replaced. 24. The power supply system according to claim 23, wherein the power supply system is recovered by a fuel storage means for the fuel cell before being used.   When the fuel storage means is replaced with the second fuel storage means, in the newly selected fuel cell, after the power generation operation is stabilized, the newly selected fuel cell is connected to the load. The power supply system according to claim 23. In the newly selected fuel cell, until the power generation operation is stabilized,
27. The power supply system according to claim 26, wherein the concentration of fuel supplied to the newly selected fuel cell is temporarily increased by the control means.   28. A display function for announcing that the fuel cell is undergoing an aging process until the fuel stored in the second fuel storage means reaches the fuel supply path. The power supply system according to any one of the above. The power supply system includes: a storage unit that stores authentication information read from the fuel storage unit; and a comparison unit that compares authentication information read from the fuel storage unit before and after replacement when the fuel storage unit is replaced. Have
29. The power supply system according to any one of claims 21 to 28, wherein authentication information after replacement is stored in the storage unit when both authentication information is different.   The power supply system according to claim 21, comprising at least two removable fuel storage means.   The power supply system according to claim 30, wherein the plurality of fuel storage means have the same shape. A first switching valve that switches between a first position in which fuel from one fuel storage means flows into the fuel supply path and a second position in which fuel from the other fuel storage means flows into the fuel supply path;
A second switching valve capable of switching the fuel in the fuel supply path between the first fuel cell side and the second fuel cell side;
32. The power supply system according to claim 30 or 31, characterized by comprising: The at least two fuel storage means store the same fuel,
When the one fuel storage means is removed and / or when the amount of fuel contained in the one fuel storage means is low,
The power supply system according to claim 32, wherein the first switching valve is switched from the first position to the second position. Different fuels are stored in the at least two fuel storage means,
When the fuel of the one fuel storage means is supplied to the first fuel cell,
When the one fuel storage means is removed and / or when the amount of fuel contained in the one fuel storage means is low,
The first switching valve is switched from the first position to the second position;
The power supply system according to claim 32, wherein the second switching valve is switched from the first fuel cell side to the second fuel cell side. A fuel cell;
Removable fuel storage means filled with fuel;
A fuel supply path for supplying fuel in the fuel storage means to the fuel cell;
Control means for controlling the amount of fuel supplied to the fuel cell;
A method of operating a power supply system comprising:
The power supply system has a plurality of fuel cells,
The method is
(A) reading authentication information including the type of fuel stored in the fuel storage means from the fuel storage means;
(B) selecting a fuel cell that supplies fuel contained in the fuel storage means from the plurality of fuel cells based on the read authentication information;
(C) controlling the amount of fuel supplied to the selected fuel cell by the control means based on the read authentication information;
Having a method. The fuel storage means stores alcohol fuel,
36. The method according to claim 35, wherein the authentication information includes information on a type of alcohol fuel stored in the fuel storage means. The power system includes at least two removable fuel storage means,
Different fuels are stored in the at least two fuel storage means,
The method may be used when the one fuel storage means is removed and / or when the amount of fuel contained in the one fuel storage means is low.
(D) switching from a state in which the fuel in one fuel storage means is supplied to the first fuel cell to a state in which the fuel in the other fuel storage means is supplied to the second fuel cell. The method according to claim 35 or 36. The power supply system collects fuel discharged from the first and second fuel cells, and can supply the fuel to the first and second fuel cells again. First and second fuel circulation tanks Have
This step is
The method according to claim 37, further comprising: (e) starting power generation of the second fuel cell using the fuel in the second fuel circulation tank before the step d. .   39. The method according to claim 38, wherein in step e, fuel having a higher concentration than that during normal power generation is supplied to the second fuel cell. When the one fuel storage means is removed and / or when the amount of fuel contained in the one fuel storage means is low,
40. The method according to claim 38 or 39, further comprising: (f) collecting fuel in the first circulation tank before step e.

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