JP2010067553A - Fuel cell system, and program thereof - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a fuel cell system which can secure power generation amount and hot water stored in a hot water tank at the moment necessary for the user, and can achieve an equipment shutdown which does not give an impression such as a shutdown by failure. <P>SOLUTION: The control part 101 of a fuel cell 100 has an accumulation current-flow time measuring means 104 to measure the current-flow time, and when the accumulated current-flow time measured by the accumulation current-flow time measuring means 104 reaches a first prescribed value established beforehand, the control part makes continue the operation when the fuel cell 100 is in operation, and does not start again after the shutdown. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a fuel cell system that is attracting attention as an energy-saving device, and a program thereof.

  Conventionally, this type of fuel cell system stops the fuel cell system when the cumulative operation time of the fuel cell body reaches a predetermined value, and stops the fuel cell system when the cumulative number of operations of the fuel cell body reaches a predetermined value. It is not activated next time (for example, see Patent Document 1).

  FIG. 6 shows a configuration diagram of a conventional fuel cell system. As shown in FIG. 6, when the operation of the fuel cell main body 502 is started, the accumulated time measuring means 511 starts accumulating the accumulated operation time, and the operation time measured by the accumulated time measuring means 511 is started. When a predetermined value set in advance is reached, the fuel cell system 501 is stopped.

In addition, when the operation of the fuel cell main body 502 is started, the operation number measuring unit 512 accumulates and accumulates the operation number (sets the operation number to 1), and the operation number measured by the operation number measuring unit 512 is calculated. If it reaches a predetermined value set in advance, it will not be activated next time.
JP 2005-63903 A

  However, in the above-described conventional configuration, when the sum of the values obtained by converting the cumulative power generation time and the cumulative power generation count into the cumulative power generation time using a predetermined conversion formula reaches a predetermined value set in advance, the device immediately stops. For this reason, there has been a problem that sufficient consideration has not been given to securing hot water in the hot water storage tank, which was the target of the fuel cell system.

  Furthermore, it is the equipment stop to prevent the service life from exceeding and to ensure the safety of the system, but if it is limited to the cumulative power generation time and the cumulative power generation frequency, the fuel cell stack or the reformer can be rescued, This system, which has little technology accumulation, takes into account the useful life of components other than the fuel cell stack and reformer, specifically, auxiliary equipment with a rotating shaft and auxiliary equipment that impacts with a plunger. The equipment should be shut down to ensure safety with components in view.

  The present invention solves the above-described conventional problems. Even when the cumulative energization time of the fuel cell reaches a predetermined value, the operation is continued until the equipment is stopped, and the next start is performed when the operation is stopped. It aims at providing the fuel cell system which does not permit, and its program.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned conventional problems, the present invention has accumulated energization time measuring means for accumulating and accumulating the time during which the power supply of the fuel cell is energized, and measuring the accumulated energization time of the fuel cell, When the measured cumulative energization time reaches a first predetermined value set in advance, the operation is continued if the fuel cell is in operation, and the fuel cell is not started next time after the stop. Is.

  As a result, the power generation according to the operation plan of the fuel cell can be completed, and the user can secure the amount of generated power and the hot water accumulated in the hot water storage tank, and without giving an impression such as failure stoppage. The system can be shut down and the system can be operated safely.

  The fuel cell system and the program according to the present invention complete the operation in accordance with the operation plan of the fuel cell when the fuel cell predicts the deterioration of the components during power generation and the device is not in a dangerous state. Since it will stop later and will not start from the next time after the stop, the user must secure the amount of generated power and the hot water accumulated in the hot water storage tank, and also stop the equipment to ensure the safety of the system. However, it is possible to realize the equipment stop without giving the impression of a failure stop.

  In addition, since the deterioration of parts is determined by measuring the cumulative energization time, parts other than important parts, such as fuel cell stacks and reformers, that directly contribute to generating power generation, specifically those with rotating shafts. It is possible to predict the deterioration of auxiliary machines that have an impact with the machine and the plunger, and to stop the equipment, thereby ensuring the safety of the system.

  The first invention includes a fuel cell that stops when the elapsed time from a certain starting point reaches a predetermined value set in advance, and the fuel cell accumulates and accumulates the time during which the power of the fuel cell is energized. And a cumulative energization time measuring means for measuring the cumulative energization time of the fuel cell, and when the accumulated energization time measured by the accumulated energization time measuring means reaches a preset first predetermined value, If the fuel cell is in operation, the operation is continued, and after the fuel cell is stopped, it is not started next time.

  With this configuration, even if the equipment is stopped to ensure the amount of generated electric power currently required by the user and hot water stored in the hot water storage tank and to ensure the safety of the system, it does not give the impression of a failure stop. Can be stopped.

  In addition, since the deterioration of parts is determined by measuring the cumulative energization time, parts other than important parts, such as fuel cell stacks and reformers, that directly contribute to generating power generation, specifically those with rotating shafts. It is possible to predict the deterioration of auxiliary machines that have an impact with the machine and the plunger, and to stop the equipment, thereby ensuring the safety of the system.

  In the fuel cell system of the first invention, the second invention is a cumulative power generation in which, in the fuel cell system of the first invention, the fuel cell integrates the time from the start of power generation until the power generation stops as the power generation time, and measures the accumulation of the power generation time. A time measuring means, and a cumulative number of power generation times measuring means for accumulating the number of power generations as a single power generation when the fuel cell power generation is started, and measuring a cumulative number of the power generation times, a first predetermined value; When the fuel cell is in operation when at least one of the second predetermined value and the third predetermined value set in advance for the cumulative power generation time and the cumulative power generation number is reached, the operation is continued. The fuel cell is not started next time after it stops.

  This configuration detects deterioration of important parts of the system, such as fuel cell stacks and reformers, that directly contribute to generating power generation energy, and parts other than those important parts. However, it is possible to realize equipment shutdown for ensuring safety with a view to the components of the entire fuel cell, which has little technology accumulation.

  The third aspect of the invention is particularly the fuel cell system of the first or second aspect of the invention, wherein the fuel cell integrates the time from the start of power generation until the power generation stops as the power generation time, and measures the accumulation of the power generation time. And a cumulative power generation time measuring means for accumulating the number of power generations as a single power generation when the fuel cell power generation is started, and measuring the cumulative number of power generations. Notifying that the fuel cell will not be activated next time when at least one predetermined value among the second predetermined value and the third predetermined value set in advance with respect to the value, the accumulated power generation time and the accumulated power generation count is reached. A notification signal output means for outputting a notification signal is provided.

  With this configuration, in order to output a notification signal that does not permit the start of the next operation, the starting point for taking prompt measures against the device that has stopped the notification signal, for example, the user has contacted the service company and stopped the device It can be used as a starting point for requesting maintenance to make it ready for operation again, and since the manufacturer has already reached the end of its service life, it can be used as a starting point for bringing equipment into a replacement negotiation. As a result, the original operation rate can be improved and energy saving can be secured.

  According to a fourth aspect of the invention, in particular, in the fuel cell system of the third aspect of the invention, the notification signal output means has a fourth predetermined value obtained by subtracting a predetermined time from the first predetermined value by the value measured by the cumulative energization time measuring means. The value measured by the cumulative power generation time measuring means is a fifth predetermined value obtained by subtracting a predetermined time from the second predetermined value, and the value measured by the cumulative power generation number measuring means is predetermined more than the third predetermined value. When the sixth predetermined value obtained by subtracting the number of times is reached, a notice signal for notifying that a notification signal is outputted is outputted.

  With this configuration, the warning signal can be used as a starting point for taking prompt countermeasures before the device falls into a complete stop state, for example, the user contacts the service company in advance of the complete stop of the device and before the complete stop. Requesting the maintenance of the equipment to make it possible to continue operation without creating a period of complete stop, and the manufacturer will inform the user that the equipment will soon reach the end of its life and stop completely. It can be used as a starting point for reporting and bringing in equipment replacement negotiations, improving the original operation rate of the power generation device and ensuring energy saving.

  According to the fifth aspect of the invention, particularly in the fuel cell system of the fourth aspect of the invention, the fuel cell system can be continuously operated during the period in which the warning signal is informed, and the manufacturer falls into a complete stop state. Since it is possible to take countermeasures while continuing the operation of the fuel cell during this period, it is possible to ensure energy saving while securing the original operation rate as the power generation device.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the fuel cell system of the fourth or fifth aspect of the invention, the fuel cell further has a display means, and when the notice signal output means outputs the notice signal and the notice signal, It is displayed on the display means that the battery will soon stop at a predetermined time, and in the case of a notification signal, it is displayed on the display means that it will not be activated next time.

  With this configuration, when a warning signal is displayed, the user should contact the service company before the equipment enters the complete stop state, request maintenance of the equipment in advance of the complete stop, and request replacement of the equipment from the manufacturer. Countermeasures can be taken promptly, and the original operation rate as a power generator can be secured. In addition, when the notification signal is displayed, the reason for not starting up next time is clarified, and the user can promptly take countermeasures such as requesting equipment maintenance to the service company or requesting the manufacturer to replace the equipment. It is possible to secure the original operation rate as a power generation device.

  The seventh invention is a program for causing a computer to realize at least part of the functions of the fuel cell system of any one of the first to sixth inventions.

  Since it is a program, it is possible to easily realize at least a part of the fuel cell system of the present invention by cooperating hardware resources such as an electric / information device, a computer, and a server. Also, the program can be distributed / updated and installed easily by recording on a recording medium or distributing the program using a communication line.

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

(Embodiment 1)
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a fuel cell system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a power generation time, an energization time, and a count position of the number of power generations with respect to the operating state of the fuel cell system. Is.

  In FIG. 1, the control unit 101 of the fuel cell 100 measures the accumulated energization time measuring unit 104 that measures the time during which the fuel cell 100 is energized, and the accumulation that measures the time during which the fuel cell 100 is generating power. The power generation time measuring unit 102 and the cumulative power generation number measuring unit 103 that measures the number of times the fuel cell 100 has generated power are controlled.

  Further, the control unit 101 stores the numerical values measured by the cumulative energization time measuring means 104, the cumulative power generation time measuring means 102, and the cumulative power generation number measuring means 103, and the measured numerical values are stored in the storage means in advance. If a value equal to or greater than the set numerical value is detected, a notification signal or a notification signal output means 105 for outputting a notification signal for notifying that the notification signal is output, and various information are displayed based on the signal from the notification signal output means 105. The display means 107 to communicate with and the communication means 108 to communicate with the information terminal device 109 are controlled.

  The information terminal device 109 is connected to the fuel cell 100 via a home communication line 110 and has a function of controlling the fuel cell. The in-home communication line 110 can also use a wireless medium such as a wireless LAN, Bluetooth (registered trademark) or specific low-power wireless. In this case, the information terminal device 109 and the fuel cell 100 need to be equipped with a wireless communication unit. There is.

  In addition to displaying the notification signal and the warning signal, the information terminal device 109 starts and stops the power generation of the fuel cell 100, displays an abnormal code, displays the generated power amount and the received power amount, and is described in FIG. Although omitted, the hot water storage unit has setting functions related to the hot water storage system, such as the hot water supply temperature when using the exhaust heat recovered, the bath boiling and the bath boiling finishing reservation.

  About the fuel cell system comprised as mentioned above, the operation | movement and an effect | action are demonstrated below.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the fuel cell 100 is a system that can realize a high energy effect by chemically reacting hydrogen and oxygen to directly generate electric energy, and at the same time, recovering and using heat generated during the reaction, While the fuel cell 100 is powered on, power generation is not always performed.

  Specifically, since the household load power is extremely small, the startup energy for starting the fuel cell 100 is larger and the startup itself is not worth it, or even if the household load power is sufficiently large, When the operation plan calculated from the learning data of the past electric power load and hot water supply load is determined not to have an energy saving effect, the fuel cell 100 is not started but is in a power generation standby state. Detailed description of the operation plan will not be given in this document.

  The time during which the fuel cell 100 is started and the starting process until power generation is performed, the time during which the fuel cell 100 is actually generating power, and the stop until the power generation is stopped and the fuel cell 100 is brought into a standby state. While the process is being carried out, of course, it is energized, but energization is continued during the power generation standby state.

  That is, the time when the power of the fuel cell 100 is ON is set as the energization time, and the cumulative energization time measuring means 104 measures this energization time.

  The cumulative power generation time measured by the cumulative power generation time measuring means 102 to be described later is deterioration of the solid polymer film of the fuel cell stack, and the cumulative power generation time measured by the cumulative power generation frequency measuring means 103 is cracking or reforming of the reformer. Although it is an indispensable element for detecting the deterioration of the catalyst, the fuel cell 100 is not composed of only important components that directly contribute to the generation of the generated energy.

  For example, an auxiliary machine having a rotating shaft and an auxiliary machine that gives impact by a plunger are also mounted on the fuel cell 100.

  Specifically, in order to reform the fuel in the reformer, a stable burner flame is necessary, but the reforming to feed the air-fuel mixture to the burner by adjusting the ratio of air to fuel fed to the burner A stack fan that adjusts the amount of air sent to the fuel cell stack relative to the hydrogen supplied to the fuel cell stack to generate electrical energy by causing a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen in the fan and the fuel cell stack is widely used in the market Therefore, there is a need for a fan having a new control algorithm that enables finer control than products that are used in general, and the fuel cell system according to the first embodiment predicts deterioration of these fans, and the system malfunctions. Don't invite safety.

  In addition, gas sealing valves for the purpose of opening and sealing fuel gas may use parts that are widely used in the market. However, the fuel cell has a shallow technology compared to gas water heaters. For 100, since the behavior of the system cannot be assumed when this component is deteriorated or destroyed, the fuel cell system of the first embodiment needs to predict such deterioration of the general-purpose product.

  If the power of the fuel cell 100 is in an ON state, these fans and valves may operate during standby or during start-up until power generation. Therefore, it is better to judge the deterioration based on the elapsed energization time. Is suitable.

  This is a method of measuring the cumulative energization time. In FIG. 2, when the power of the fuel cell 100 is OFF, the control unit 101 itself does not work, so the cumulative energization time measuring means 104 cannot measure the energization time. When the power supply of the fuel cell 100 is turned on, the cumulative energization time measuring means 104 starts to accumulate and accumulate the energization time.

  Since the fan and the valve may operate during standby or during startup until power generation, if the power of the fuel cell 100 is in the ON state, the energization time is always accumulated and accumulated. The control unit 101 stores the accumulated energization time measured by the accumulated energization time measuring unit 104 by switching the accumulated energization time stored in the storage unit 106 and the new accumulated energization time.

  The timing that the control unit 101 stores in the storage unit 106 may be stored in a predetermined cycle during the integration of the energization time, or when the fuel cell 100 is turned off, the control unit 101 stores it instantaneously. You may do it.

  The storage means 106 may be a non-volatile memory or a type of memory that holds data by a backup battery. Thereby, even when the power supply of the fuel cell 100 is turned off, the accumulated energization time is not lost.

  In order to prevent unsafety due to deterioration of the component parts, the next activation is not permitted, but the storage means 106 has a first predetermined value for comparison with the accumulated energization time and a predetermined value based on the first predetermined value. A fourth predetermined value with less time is stored in advance.

  The first predetermined value is used to output a notification signal that will not be activated next time as a result of comparison with the accumulated energization time, and the fourth predetermined value is used to give a notice of the output of the notification signal.

  Since the fourth predetermined value is a notification signal, that is, a notice that the fuel cell 100 will not be activated next time, it may be set, for example, about six months before the first predetermined value. The notification signal output means 105 compares the accumulated energization time measured by the accumulated energization time measurement means 104 with a fourth predetermined value preset in the storage means 106.

  As a result of the comparison, when the accumulated energization time measured by the accumulated energization time measuring means 104 reaches the fourth predetermined value, the notification signal output means 105 outputs a notice signal. Since the warning signal is a warning that the fuel cell 100 will not be activated next time, power generation and stop may be repeated until the notification signal is output.

  That is, while the fuel cell is energized, the notification signal output means 105 compares the accumulated energization time measured by the accumulated energization time measuring means 104 with the fourth predetermined value, and the accumulated energization measured by the accumulated energization time measuring means 104. When the energization time reaches the fourth predetermined value, a notice signal is output.

  When the notification signal output by the notification signal output means 105 or the warning signal is used, the starting point for taking a quick countermeasure against the device before or after the stoppage, for example, the user contacts the service company to maintain the device. It can be used as a starting point for requesting the equipment to be ready for operation again, and as a starting point for manufacturers to bring in equipment replacement negotiations. Can be secured.

  Next, as the first predetermined value, the first predetermined value is stored in advance in the storage means 106 as to the time when the deterioration of the component parts occurs due to the driving operation or aging after the fuel cell 100 is installed at the user's house. Although being set, the notification signal output means 105 compares the cumulative energization time measured by the cumulative energization time measurement means 104 with a first predetermined value preset in the storage means 106, and the result If the accumulated energization time measured by the accumulated energization time measuring unit 104 is large, if the fuel cell 100 is immediately moved to stop the device, the user will be given an impression that it has been stopped due to a failure stop. .

  Therefore, even when the cumulative energization time is larger than the first predetermined value, it is not always necessary to stop the currently operating state unless the fuel cell 100 has an abnormality or failure. If the operation is continued according to the operation plan, and the fuel cell 100 is stopped when the operation plan is to be stopped, the user can secure the amount of generated power and the hot water accumulated in the hot water storage tank, and Even when the equipment is stopped to ensure the safety of the system, the equipment can be stopped without giving the impression of a failure stop.

  That is, the notification signal output means 105 can achieve this effect if the comparison process between the accumulated energization time measured by the accumulated energization time measuring means 104 and the first predetermined value is performed only when the process of operating the fuel cell 100 is on standby. Obtainable.

  When the notification signal output by the notification signal output means 105 or the warning signal is used, the starting point for taking a quick countermeasure against the device before or after the stoppage, for example, the user contacts the service company to maintain the device. It can be used as a starting point for requesting the equipment to be ready for operation again, and as a starting point for manufacturers to bring in equipment replacement negotiations. Can be secured.

  On the other hand, measurement of the accumulated power generation time and the number of accumulated power generations is an important element for detecting deterioration of important parts of the system, such as a fuel cell stack and a reformer, that directly contribute to generating generated energy.

  In the present invention, in addition to the cumulative power generation time and the cumulative power generation count, a cumulative energization time is further measured, and when at least one of them reaches a predetermined value, it is determined that the device life of the fuel cell 100 has come, If there is no dangerous condition, the operation is stopped after the operation according to the operation plan of the fuel cell is completed, and the next activation is not performed after the operation is stopped.

  As a result, even if the fuel cell predicts deterioration of its components during power generation, the user can secure the amount of power generated and the hot water accumulated in the hot water storage tank and stop the equipment to ensure the safety of the system. Even so, the device can be stopped without giving the impression of a failure stop.

  In addition, since the deterioration of parts is determined by measuring the cumulative energization time, parts other than important parts, such as fuel cell stacks and reformers, that directly contribute to generating power generation, specifically those with rotating shafts. It is possible to predict the deterioration of auxiliary machines that have an impact with the machine and the plunger, and stop the equipment, ensuring safety with a view to the components of the entire fuel cell, which has a shallower technology accumulation than general home appliances. Therefore, it is possible to realize the equipment stop for

  Here, a method of detecting the accumulated power generation time and the accumulated power generation number will be described. The accumulated power generation time measured by the accumulated power generation time measuring means 102 is used when detecting the deterioration of the solid polymer film of the fuel cell stack.

  The accumulated power generation time measuring means 102 starts the accumulation process when the fuel cell 100 leaves the standby state, enters the power generation process, and starts accumulating the power generation time. The fuel cell 100 moves from the power generation process to the stop process. If entered, the accumulation of power generation time is terminated and stored in the storage means 106.

  As the solid polymer membrane deteriorates, pinholes may open in the membrane or the membrane may break, and if a hole is opened, off-gas mixed with dangerous concentrations of hydrogen gas may flow. 100 may be unsafe.

  Further, the cumulative power generation count measured by the cumulative power generation count measuring means 103 is used when detecting deterioration of the reformer. The accumulated power generation count measuring means 103 counts 1 when the fuel cell 100 changes its state from the start of power generation to the stop stroke, accumulates and accumulates the number of power generations, and the new power generation count stored in the storage means 106 is new. The number of power generations is exchanged and stored.

  The city gas is reformed to extract hydrogen, and the hydrogen is supplied to the fuel cell stack. The solid polymer fuel cell uses a platinum catalyst in the reformer, and carbon monoxide is present in the fuel. The platinum catalyst deteriorates.

  Further, when hydrogen is extracted by reforming city gas, the reformer is heated by a burner from 600 degrees to 700 degrees, so that the temperature changes from room temperature to 700 degrees each time the fuel cell 100 is started. This also places a heavy burden on the structure.

  For example, if the reformer breaks due to this stress, high concentration of carbon monoxide may leak, and the fuel cell 100 may become unsafe. In the case of the reformer, since the structure is assumed to be deteriorated, the deterioration is determined by accumulating the number of power generations.

  Similar to the cumulative energization time, there are a warning signal and a notification signal in the case of the cumulative power generation time and the cumulative number of power generations. In the cumulative power generation time, the notification signal has a second predetermined value, the warning signal has a fifth predetermined value, The cumulative number of power generations has a notification signal as a third predetermined value, a notification signal as a sixth predetermined value, and the notification signal output means 105 outputs a notification signal and a notification signal when each is detected.

  FIG. 3 shows an example in which the information terminal device 109 displays the meaning of the warning signal as a message to the user.

  The control unit 101 outputs the notification signal or the warning signal output from the notification signal output unit 105 to the home communication line 110 via the communication unit 108. The fuel cell 100 has display means 107 and an information terminal device 109 as display means, and displays the notification signal and the notice signal.

  In the case of FIG. 3A, when the information terminal device 109 receives a notice signal from the control unit 101 of the fuel cell 100, the information terminal device 109 displays on the screen as a message that it will be stopped soon.

  In the case of FIG. 3B, the LED 301 is blinked to notify that the fuel cell 100 will be stopped soon, as in the pop-up. These are examples of the warning signal. However, when a predetermined period has passed since the warning signal was issued and the notification signal is finally replaced, in the example of FIG. 3A, the user needs to contact the dealer. In the example of FIG. 3B, for example, an expression may be used in which the LED 301 changes from blinking to lighting, and the change that is no longer a notice is clearly felt by the user.

  As a result, when the warning signal is displayed, the user can promptly take countermeasures against the fuel cell 100 before the device falls into a complete stop state, thereby ensuring the original operation rate of the power generation device. In addition, when the notification signal is displayed, the reason for not starting the next time becomes clear, and in this case as well, the measure for the fuel cell 100 can be taken promptly as with the warning signal.

  The pop-up or LED lighting or blinking described here is not limited to the information terminal device 109, and the same pop-up or LED lighting or blinking may be performed on the display means 107 provided in the fuel cell 100.

  4 and 5 are flowcharts for explaining the operation of the fuel cell system according to the first embodiment.

  In the flowchart of FIG. 4, the control unit 101 determines whether a notification signal indicating that the fuel cell 100 is not activated next time is output (STEP 1). If there is no notification signal (STEP 1 branches to No), it is determined whether or not the fuel cell 100 is on standby (STEP 4).

  If the fuel cell 100 is not waiting (STEP 4 branches to No), the control unit 101 determines whether or not the fuel cell 100 is generating power (STEP 14). If power generation is in progress (STEP 14 branches to Yes), the control unit 101 determines whether or not a stop process for stopping the power generation of the fuel cell 100 has been selected (STEP 15).

  Although it is a means for stopping the power generation of the fuel cell 100, it may be a case of stopping according to the operation plan of the control unit 101 or a case of stopping when the hot water accumulated in the hot water storage tank is full. Furthermore, when the user performs an operation to stop the power generation of the fuel cell 100 by operating the information terminal device 109 and the control unit 101 selects the stop of the power generation, or a failure occurs in the fuel cell 100, the control unit 101 You may choose to stop power generation yourself.

  When the control unit 101 selects the power generation stop process (STEP 15 branches to Yes), the control unit 101 performs the stop process of the fuel cell 100 (STEP 16). If the stop process is performed, the accumulated power generation number measuring means 103 adds the number of power generations once and accumulates and accumulates the number of power generations (STEP 17).

  The notification signal output means 105 is preset in the accumulated power generation count and storage means 106 in order to notify the notification signal that means that the next activation is not performed when the cumulative power generation count reaches a predetermined value. Is compared with a predetermined value (STEP 18).

  When the cumulative number of times of power generation has reached the sixth predetermined value (STEP 18 branches to Yes), the notification signal output means 105 outputs a notification signal for notifying that the notification signal will be output soon (STEP 19).

  The control unit 101 outputs a warning signal to the information terminal device 109 via the communication means 108 and the home communication line 110. The information terminal device 109 uses the received warning signal to pop up the screen, blink the LED 301, etc. A message for notifying that a notification signal will be output soon is displayed (STEP 19).

  And the process which determines whether the alerting | reporting signal is output is performed (STEP1). If the cumulative number of power generations has not reached the sixth predetermined value (STEP 18 is branched to No), the notification signal output means 105 does nothing and executes a process for determining whether a notification signal is output ( STEP 1).

  Next, when the fuel cell 100 is generating power (STEP 14 is branched to the Yes side) and the control unit 101 has not selected stop of power generation (STEP 15 is branched to the No side), the control unit 101 first performs the A process (STEP 5, 6 and 7) are executed. The process A is a process for determining a notice of a notification signal that means that the next activation is not performed when the accumulated energization time reaches a predetermined value, which will be described in detail later.

  When the fuel cell 100 is generating power (STEP 14 is branched to Yes) and the control unit 101 has not selected to stop power generation (STEP 15 is branched to No), the fuel cell continues to generate power. When the process A is executed, the time measuring means 102 accumulates and adds the power generation time (STEP 20).

  The notification signal output means 105 is preset in the accumulated power generation time and storage means 106 in order to give a notice of a notification signal that means that the next activation is not performed when the accumulated power generation time reaches a predetermined value. Is compared with a predetermined value (STEP 21).

  When the accumulated power generation time has reached the fifth predetermined value (STEP 21 branches to Yes), the notification signal output means 105 outputs a warning signal for notifying that the notification signal will be output soon (STEP 22). The information terminal device 109 displays a message for notifying that the fuel cell 100 will output a notification signal soon by pop-up, blinking of the LED 301 or the like using the notice signal (STEP 22).

  And the process which determines whether the alerting | reporting signal is output is performed (STEP1). When the accumulated power generation time has not reached the fifth predetermined value (STEP 21 is branched to No), the notification signal output means 105 does nothing and executes a process for determining whether or not a notification signal is output (STEP 1). ).

  Next, when the fuel cell 100 is not waiting (STEP 4 branches to the No side), and when it is not generating power (STEP 14 is branched to the No side), it is the startup time for the fuel cell 100 to generate power, or This is the stop time when power generation is stopped. Also in this case, the control unit 101 first executes the A process (STEPs 5, 6, and 7), which will be described later in detail. After the control unit 101 executes the process A, the control unit 101 executes a process for determining whether a notification signal is output (STEP 1).

  Next, when the fuel cell 100 is in a standby state (STEP 4 is branched to Yes), the above-described A process is first executed. First, the cumulative energization time measuring means 104 accumulates and accumulates energization times (STEP 5).

  The notification signal output means 105 is preset in the accumulated energization time and storage means 106 in order to give a notice of a notification signal that means that the next activation is not performed when the accumulated energization time reaches a predetermined value. Is compared with a predetermined value (STEP 6). When the cumulative energization time has reached the fourth predetermined value (STEP 6 is branched to Yes), the notification signal output means 105 outputs a warning signal for notifying that the notification signal will be output soon (STEP 7).

  The information terminal device 109 displays a message for notifying that the fuel cell 100 will output a notification signal soon by pop-up or blinking of the LED 301 on the screen (STEP 7), and the next B process (FIG. 5). Execute. When the accumulated energization time has not reached the fourth predetermined value (STEP 6 is branched to No), the notification signal output means 105 does not output the notification signal yet, so the next B Execute the process.

  FIG. 5 shows that at least one of the first, second and third predetermined values preset in the storage means 106 by the notification signal output means 105 for the cumulative energization time, cumulative power generation time, and cumulative power generation count is a predetermined value. Is a process of outputting a notification signal indicating that the fuel cell 100 will not be activated next time.

  The control unit 101 confirms whether or not a notification signal is output (STEP 1), and if the notification signal is output (STEP 1 is branched to Yes side), the control unit 101 stops the fuel cell 100 to start the next time. (STEP 2).

  If the process of outputting the notification signal is executed only when the fuel cell 100 is on standby (STEP 4 branches to Yes), the fuel cell 100 does not output the notification signal during operation such as power generation or the start-up process until power generation. If the battery 100 is in operation, the operation can be continued, and an operation in which the battery 100 is not activated next time after being put on standby toward the stop can be realized.

  In this case, it is a starting point for heading to stop. For example, when the user performs an operation to stop the power generation of the fuel cell 100 by operating the information terminal device 109, or an operation plan possessed by the control unit 101. It may be a case where it becomes a stop according to.

  As a result, even if the equipment is shut down to ensure the amount of generated power required by the user and hot water stored in the hot water storage tank, and further to ensure the safety of the system, the equipment does not give the impression of a malfunction stop. A stop can be realized. The fuel cell 100 that has output the warning signal can be repeatedly activated, generated, and stopped as many times as necessary until the notification signal is output.

  Although it is description of an actual operation | movement, the notification signal output means 105 means that the notification signal output means 105 does not make the next start after performing A process in standby (STEP4 branches to Yes side). Therefore, the cumulative energization time is compared with a first predetermined value preset in the storage means 106 (STEP 8). When the cumulative energization time has reached the first predetermined value (STEP 8 branches to Yes), a notification signal indicating that the fuel cell 100 will not be activated next time is output (STEP 9).

  The control unit 101 outputs a notification signal to the information terminal device 109 via the communication means 108 and the in-home communication line 110. The information terminal device 109 uses the received notification signal to pop up the screen or turn on the LED 301 and so on. A message indicating that the battery 100 is not activated next time is displayed (STEP 9). And the process which determines whether the alerting | reporting signal is output is performed (STEP1).

  Next, as shown in FIG. 5, when the cumulative energization time does not reach the first predetermined value (STEP 8 branches to No), the notification signal output means 105 indicates that the cumulative number of times of power generation has reached the predetermined value. In order to output a notification signal indicating that the next activation is not performed, the cumulative power generation count is compared with a third predetermined value preset in the storage means 106 (STEP 10).

  When the accumulated power generation count has reached the third predetermined value (STEP 10 branches to Yes), a notification signal indicating that the fuel cell 100 will not be activated next time is output (STEP 11). The information terminal device 109 uses the notification signal to display a message on the screen indicating that the fuel cell 100 will not be activated next time by pop-up or lighting of the LED 301 (STEP 11). And the process which determines whether the alerting | reporting signal is output is performed (STEP1).

  Next, when the cumulative number of power generations has not reached the third predetermined value (STEP 10 is branched to No), the notification signal output means 105 does not start the next time because the cumulative power generation time has reached the predetermined value. In order to output a meaning notification signal, the accumulated power generation time is compared with a second predetermined value preset in the storage means 106 (STEP 12).

  When the accumulated power generation time has reached the second predetermined value (STEP 12 branches to Yes), a notification signal indicating that the fuel cell 100 will not be activated next time is output (STEP 13). The information terminal device 109 uses the notification signal to display a message on the screen indicating that the fuel cell 100 will not be activated next time, such as by pop-up or LED lighting (STEP 13). And the process which determines whether the alerting | reporting signal is output is performed (STEP1).

  If the accumulated power generation time has not reached the second predetermined value (STEP 12 is branched to No), the notification signal output means 105 does nothing and executes a process for determining whether a notification signal is output ( STEP 1).

  If the notification signal is output (STEP 1 branches to Yes side), the control unit 101 stops the fuel cell 100 and the notification signal is output, and the information terminal device 109 uses the notification signal to pop up the screen. A message indicating that the fuel cell 100 is not activated next time is displayed by turning on the LED or the like (STEP 3).

  As described above, in the first embodiment, even when the fuel cell 100 predicts deterioration of components during power generation, if the device is not in a dangerous state, the operation according to the operation plan of the fuel cell 100 is performed. Stops after completion, and does not start from the next time after the stop, so the user stops securing the amount of generated power and the hot water accumulated in the hot water storage tank and the equipment to ensure system safety Even so, the device can be stopped without giving the impression of a failure stop.

  In addition, since the deterioration of parts is determined by measuring the cumulative energization time, there is a direct contribution to the generation of power generation energy between the system critical parts such as the fuel cell stack and reformer, and parts other than those important parts. Since the deterioration is detected, it is possible to realize an equipment stop for ensuring safety in view of the components of the entire fuel cell, which is less technically accumulated than general home appliances.

  In addition, in order to output a notification signal that does not permit the start of the next operation, a starting point for taking prompt countermeasures for the device that has stopped the notification signal, for example, the user contacts the service company, The starting point for requesting maintenance and making it ready for operation again, and since the manufacturer has already reached the end of its service life, it can be used as a starting point for bringing in equipment replacement negotiations. As a result, the original operation rate of the engine can be improved and energy saving can be secured.

  In addition, since the warning signal is output before the device outputs a notification signal that does not permit the start of the next operation, the warning signal is used as a starting point for taking quick countermeasures before the device falls into a complete stop state, for example, use The person contacts the service company in advance of the complete stoppage of the equipment, requests the maintenance of the equipment in advance of the complete stop, and makes it possible to continue operation without creating a complete stop period. In addition, the manufacturer will soon inform the user that the equipment will reach the end of its life and stop completely, and can be used as a starting point for bringing in equipment replacement negotiations, improving the original operating rate of the generator. And energy saving can be secured.

  In addition, the user or manufacturer can take measures while continuing the operation of the fuel cell for the period until the equipment goes into a complete shutdown state, thus ensuring the original operating rate of the power generator and saving energy. Sex can be secured.

  Also, if a warning signal is displayed, the user should contact the service company before the equipment goes into a complete stop state, request the maintenance of the equipment in advance of the complete stop, and request the manufacturer to replace the equipment. Can be taken promptly, and the original operation rate as a power generator can be secured.

  In addition, when a notification signal is displayed, the reason for not starting up next time is clarified, and the user can promptly take countermeasures such as requesting equipment maintenance to the service company or requesting the manufacturer to replace the equipment. It is possible to secure the original operation rate as a power generation device.

  Note that the means described in this embodiment causes hardware resources such as a CPU (or microcomputer), a RAM, a ROM, a storage / recording device, an electrical / information device including an I / O, a computer, a server, and the like to cooperate. You may implement with the form of a program. In the case of a program, distribution / update and installation of the program can be easily performed by recording it on a recording medium such as magnetic media or optical media, or by distributing it using a communication line such as the Internet.

  The fuel cell of the present invention is not limited to home use but may be used for business purposes such as offices and factories.

  As described above, the fuel cell system of the present invention and the program thereof according to the present invention can be used when the fuel cell predicts the deterioration of components during power generation and the device is not in a dangerous state. The system will stop after completing the operation according to the operation plan, and will not start from the next time after the stop, so the user can secure the amount of generated power and the hot water accumulated in the hot water storage tank, and the safety of the system. Even if the equipment is stopped to ensure the safety, the equipment can be stopped without giving the impression of a failure stop.

  In addition, since the deterioration of the component is determined by measuring the cumulative energization time, the deterioration of components other than the important components such as the fuel cell stack and the reformer can be predicted, and the safety of the system can be ensured.

1 is a block diagram of a fuel cell system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Explanatory diagram showing the power generation time, energization time, and the number of power generation count positions for the operating state of the fuel cell system (A) Explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display which expressed the notice signal by pop-up on the information terminal device of the fuel cell system (b) Explanatory drawing which shows the example of display which expressed the notice signal by LED on the information terminal device of the fuel cell system Flow chart for explaining the operation of the fuel cell system Flow chart for explaining the operation of the fuel cell system Configuration diagram of conventional fuel cell system

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Fuel cell 101 Control part 102 Cumulative power generation time measurement means 103 Cumulative power generation frequency measurement means 104 Cumulative energization time measurement means 105 Notification signal output means

107 Display means

Claims (7)

The fuel cell includes a fuel cell that stops when an elapsed time from a certain starting point reaches a predetermined value set in advance, and the fuel cell accumulates and accumulates the time during which the power source of the fuel cell is energized, and the fuel cell When the cumulative energization time measured by the cumulative energization time measurement means reaches a first predetermined value set in advance, the fuel cell is operated. A fuel cell system in which operation is continued if it is in the middle and is not started next time after the fuel cell is stopped. The fuel cell integrates the time from the start of power generation to the stop of power generation as a power generation time, and cumulative power generation time measuring means for measuring the accumulation of the power generation time, and 1 if the power generation of the fuel cell is started A cumulative power generation number measuring means for accumulating the number of power generations as a single power generation and measuring the cumulative number of power generations, and the first predetermined value, the cumulative power generation time, and the cumulative power generation number are preset. The operation is continued if the fuel cell is in operation when at least one predetermined value of the second predetermined value and the third predetermined value is reached, and is not started next time after the fuel cell is stopped. 2. The fuel cell system according to 1. The fuel cell integrates the time from the start of power generation to the stop of power generation as a power generation time, and cumulative power generation time measuring means for measuring the accumulation of the power generation time, and 1 if the power generation of the fuel cell is started A cumulative power generation number measuring means for accumulating the number of power generations as a single power generation and measuring the cumulative number of power generations, and the first predetermined value, the cumulative power generation time, and the cumulative power generation number are preset. 2. A notification signal output means for outputting a notification signal notifying that the fuel cell will not be activated next time when at least one predetermined value of the second predetermined value and the third predetermined value is reached. Or the fuel cell system of 2. The notification signal output means includes a fourth predetermined value obtained by subtracting a predetermined time from the first predetermined value, and a value measured by the accumulated power generation time measuring means. A fifth predetermined value obtained by subtracting a predetermined time from the second predetermined value and a value measured by the cumulative power generation number measuring means have reached a sixth predetermined value obtained by subtracting the predetermined number of times from the third predetermined value. The fuel cell system according to claim 3, wherein a warning signal for notifying that a notification signal is output is output. The fuel cell system according to claim 4, wherein the fuel cell can be continuously operated during a period in which the warning signal is informed. The fuel cell has display means, and when the notification signal output means outputs the warning signal and the warning signal, the display means that the fuel cell will soon stop at a predetermined time in the case of the warning signal. The fuel cell system according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the display means displays that the next activation is not performed in the case of the notification signal. The program for making a computer implement | achieve at least one part of the fuel cell system of any one of Claims 1-6.

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