JP2012114060A - Fuel supply method and fuel cell vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a fuel charging method which can reduce the number of components and the space needed and further can supply inert gas and liquid fuel in one session of work and a fuel cell vehicle which incorporates a fuel cell device for which the fuel charging method is adopted.SOLUTION: A supply part 53 shared for liquid fuel and inert gas in a supply source 50 and a receiving part 7 shared for liquid fuel and inert gas in a fuel cell device 2 are connected, and, with a first valve 57 opened, a second valve 60 closed, a third valve 26 opened and a fourth valve 30 closed, inert gas is supplied from a primary gas tank 55 to a secondary gas tank 24 via a first line 56, the supply part 53, the receiving part 7 and a third line 25, and then, with the first valve 57 closed, the second valve 60 opened, the third valve 26 closed and the fourth valve 30 opened, liquid fuel is supplied from a primary fuel tank 58 to a secondary fuel tank 28 via a second line 59, the supply part 53, the receiving part 7 and a fourth line 29 to separate the supply part 53 and the receiving part 7.

Description

  The present invention relates to a fuel supply method and a fuel cell vehicle, and more particularly to a fuel supply method for supplying liquid fuel and an inert gas to a fuel cell device, and a fuel cell vehicle including the fuel cell device.

  Conventionally, various types of fuel cells such as an alkaline type (AFC), a solid polymer type (PEFC), a phosphoric acid type (PAFC), a molten carbonate type (MCFC), and a solid electrolyte type (SOFC) are known. ing.

  These fuel cells include an anode electrode (fuel side electrode) disposed on one side and a cathode electrode (oxygen side electrode) disposed on the other side.

  In addition, as a fuel cell device including such a fuel cell, for example, an anode line to which an anode electrode is connected and a cathode line to which a cathode electrode is connected are provided. When the fuel cell is started and stopped, the anode line and A fuel cell device that fills the cathode line with nitrogen gas has been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  Further, such a fuel cell device is usually provided with a gas tank for storing nitrogen gas and a fuel tank for storing fuel. Nitrogen gas is supplied and stored in the gas tank from the outside via a nitrogen gas supply line. On the other hand, fuel is supplied and stored in the fuel tank from the outside via a fuel supply line different from the gas supply line.

  When starting and stopping, nitrogen gas is supplied from the gas tank to the anode line and the cathode line, the anode line is filled with nitrogen gas, and the cathode line is filled with nitrogen gas.

  During power generation, fuel is supplied from the fuel tank to the anode line and contacts the anode electrode, and air is supplied to the cathode line and contacts the cathode electrode. Thereby, an electrochemical reaction occurs in the fuel cell device, and an electromotive force is generated.

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. Sho 62-276863

  However, in the fuel cell device described in Patent Document 1, nitrogen gas and fuel are respectively supplied to the gas tank and the fuel tank via separate lines. It is necessary to provide it separately as a supply part. As a result, there are problems that the number of parts of the fuel cell device is increased and a large space is required for installation.

  In such a fuel cell device, the operation of supplying the nitrogen gas to the gas tank and the operation of supplying the fuel to the fuel tank are separate. For example, only one of them is supplied to operate the fuel cell. This causes a shortage of nitrogen gas or fuel.

  On the other hand, as the fuel cell, a fuel cell that uses liquid fuel instead of the hydrogen gas that is the fuel of the fuel cell described above, for example, a liquid fuel such as a direct methanol fuel cell, a direct dimethyl ether fuel cell, or a hydrazine fuel cell. A fuel cell is also known. Since the liquid fuel type fuel cell does not require a reformer for generating hydrogen gas, simplification of the structure as a system is expected.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to reduce the number of parts and save space, and further, a fuel filling method capable of supplying inert gas and liquid fuel in one operation, and the fuel filling method thereof. The present invention provides a fuel cell vehicle including a fuel cell device in which is used.

  In order to achieve the above object, a fuel supply method of the present invention is a fuel supply method for supplying liquid fuel and inert gas to a fuel cell device from a supply source of liquid fuel and inert gas, The supply source includes a primary gas tank in which inert gas is stored, a primary fuel tank in which liquid fuel is stored, a common supply unit for supplying liquid fuel and inert gas to the fuel cell device, A first line for connecting a secondary gas tank and the supply unit, a second line for connecting the primary fuel tank and the supply unit, and a first line for switching between supply and stop of the inert gas. And a second valve provided in the second line for switching between supply and stop of liquid fuel, wherein the fuel cell device generates fuel by a reaction that consumes liquid fuel. Common receiving of pond body, secondary gas tank for supplying inert gas to the fuel cell body, secondary fuel tank for supplying liquid fuel to the fuel cell body, liquid fuel and inert gas , A third line connecting the secondary gas tank and the receiving unit, a fourth line connecting the secondary fuel tank and the receiving unit, and the third line, and switching between supply and stop of the inert gas A third valve for connecting to the fourth line, and a fourth valve for switching between supply and stop of liquid fuel, and connecting the supply unit to the receiving unit; One valve is opened, the second valve is closed, the third valve is opened, the fourth valve is closed, and the first line, the supply unit, the receiving unit, and the third line are sequentially connected. Inert gas , An inert gas supply step for supplying the secondary gas tank from the primary gas tank, the first valve is closed, the second valve is opened, the third valve is closed, and the fourth valve is opened. A liquid fuel supply step of supplying liquid fuel from the primary fuel tank to the secondary fuel tank via the connected second line, the supply unit, the receiving unit, and the fourth line; And a separation step of separating the receiving portion.

  In such a fuel supply method, an inert gas supply process in which an inert gas is supplied from the primary gas tank to the secondary gas tank, and a liquid fuel supply process in which liquid fuel is supplied from the primary fuel tank to the secondary fuel tank. In this case, since a common supply unit and a common receiving unit are used, it is possible to reduce the number of parts and save space.

  Further, in such a fuel supply method, since the inert gas and the liquid fuel are respectively supplied between the connection step of connecting the supply unit and the receiving unit and the separation step of separating them, Inert gas and liquid fuel can be supplied in one operation. As a result, when only one of the inert gas and the liquid fuel is supplied to operate the fuel cell main body, it is possible to prevent the inert gas shortage or the fuel shortage from occurring.

  The fuel supply method according to the present invention further includes pressure detection means in the first line or the third line, and the first valve is provided after the connection step and before the liquid fuel supply step. Open, close the second valve, close the third valve, close the fourth valve, and sequentially connect the inside of the first line, the supply unit, the receiving unit and the third line, The gas filling step of filling with the inert gas supplied from the primary gas tank, and the first connected sequentially by the pressure detection means after the gas filling step and before the liquid fuel supply step. It is preferable to include a pressure detection step of detecting a pressure inside the line, the supply unit, the receiving unit, and the third line.

  In such a fuel supply method, after the supply unit and the receiving unit are connected, before the liquid fuel is supplied, the line including the connection unit of the supply unit and the receiving unit is filled with an inert gas, and the pressure is increased. Detected. At this time, leakage of the inert gas can be detected by measuring the pressure change.

  That is, according to such a fuel supply method, it is possible to detect a connection failure between the supply unit and the receiving unit, damage due to deterioration, and the like before supplying the liquid fuel. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the liquid fuel (including vaporized material) from leaking out at the above-mentioned poorly connected locations or damaged locations.

  In the fuel supply method of the present invention, after the liquid fuel supply step and before the separation step, the first valve is opened, the second valve is closed, the third valve is closed, Four valves are opened, and the first line, the supply unit, the receiving unit, and the fourth line connected sequentially are purged with an inert gas supplied from a primary gas tank, and the supply unit, the receiving unit, and It is preferable to provide a gas purge process for transporting the liquid fuel in the fourth line to the secondary fuel tank.

  If the connected supply unit and the receiving unit are separated after the liquid fuel is supplied, for example, when the liquid fuel remaining at the connection part of the supply unit and the receiving unit causes dripping or the liquid fuel adheres to the outside There is a case.

  On the other hand, in such a fuel supply method, even when the liquid fuel remains at the connection portion between the supply unit and the receiving unit after the liquid fuel is supplied, the supply unit and the receiving unit are separated before the supply unit and the receiving unit are separated. And the liquid fuel remaining in the fourth line is transported to the secondary fuel tank by the inert gas. Therefore, dripping and adhesion of liquid fuel can be prevented.

  The fuel cell vehicle of the present invention is a fuel cell vehicle that includes the fuel cell device and employs the fuel supply method described above, and the fuel cell device generates power by a reaction that consumes liquid fuel. A main body, a secondary gas tank for supplying an inert gas to the fuel cell body, a secondary fuel tank for supplying liquid fuel to the fuel cell body, and a common receiving unit for receiving liquid fuel and inert gas A third line connecting the secondary gas tank and the receiving unit, a fourth line connecting the secondary fuel tank and the receiving unit, and the third line for switching between supply and stop of the inert gas. And a fourth valve provided in the fourth line for switching between supply and stop of liquid fuel.

  In such a fuel cell vehicle, the above fuel supply method is adopted, that is, an inert gas supply step in which an inert gas is supplied from the primary gas tank to the secondary gas tank, and a secondary fuel from the primary fuel tank. Since the common supply unit and the common receiving unit are used in the liquid fuel supply process in which the liquid fuel is supplied to the tank, it is possible to reduce the number of parts and save space.

  In such a fuel cell vehicle, the inert gas and the liquid fuel are respectively supplied between the connecting step for connecting the supply unit and the receiving unit and the separation step for separating them, so that it is inactive. Gas and liquid fuel can be supplied in one operation. As a result, when only one of the inert gas and the liquid fuel is supplied to operate the fuel cell main body, it is possible to prevent the inert gas shortage or the fuel shortage from occurring.

  According to the fuel supply method and the fuel cell vehicle of the present invention, since the common supply unit and the common receiving unit are used in the inert gas supply step and the liquid fuel supply step, the number of parts of the fuel cell vehicle is reduced. In addition, space can be saved.

  Furthermore, according to the fuel supply method and the fuel cell vehicle of the present invention, the inert gas and the liquid fuel can be supplied in one operation, and as a result, only one of the inert gas and the liquid fuel is supplied. Thus, when the fuel cell main body is operated, it is possible to prevent a shortage of inert gas or a shortage of fuel.

1 is a schematic configuration diagram showing an embodiment of a fuel cell vehicle of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of one Embodiment of the fuel supply method of this invention.

1. Overall Configuration of Fuel Cell Vehicle and Fuel Cell Device FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram showing an embodiment of a fuel cell vehicle of the present invention.

  In FIG. 1, a fuel cell vehicle 1 is equipped with a fuel cell device 2 that circulates and uses liquid fuel.

  As will be described in detail later, the fuel cell device 2 is supplied with an inert gas (primary supply) from a primary gas supply device 51 of a supply source 50 (described later), and a primary fuel of a supply source 50 (described later). Liquid fuel is supplied from the supply device 52 (primary supply).

Such a fuel cell device 2 includes a fuel cell body 3 that generates power by a reaction that consumes liquid fuel, a secondary gas supply device 4, a secondary fuel supply device 5, a gas discharge-fuel circulation unit 6, A unit 7, an air supply / exhaust unit 8, a vehicle-side control unit 9, and a power unit 10 are provided.
(1) Fuel Cell Body The fuel cell body 3 is, for example, an anion exchange type fuel cell to which liquid fuel is directly supplied, and is disposed on the lower center side of the fuel cell vehicle 1.

  Examples of the liquid fuel supplied to the fuel cell main body 3 include methanol, dimethyl ether, and hydrazine (including, for example, anhydrous hydrazine and hydrazine such as hydrazine monohydrate).

  The output voltage of the fuel cell body 3 is, for example, 0.2 to 1.5 V, and the output current is, for example, 10 to 400A. These outputs are outputs per unit cell described later.

  The fuel cell main body 3 includes a fuel cell (unit cell) having an electrolyte layer 11, an anode 12 disposed on one side of the electrolyte layer 11, and a cathode 13 disposed on the other side of the electrolyte layer 11. It is formed in a stack structure in which a plurality of layers are stacked via (not shown). That is, a plurality of unit cells in which the anode 12 and the cathode 13 are arranged to face each other with the electrolyte layer 11 interposed therebetween are stacked. In FIG. 1, only one unit cell among the plurality of stacked unit cells is shown in an enlarged manner, and the other unit cells are shown in a simplified manner.

  The electrolyte layer 11 is a layer in which an anion component can move, for example, and is formed using an anion exchange membrane.

  The anode 12 includes an anode electrode 14 and a fuel supply member 15 for supplying liquid fuel to the anode electrode 14.

  The anode electrode 14 is formed on one surface of the electrolyte layer 11. Examples of the electrode material of the anode electrode 14 include a porous support (catalyst-supported porous support) on which a catalyst is supported.

  The fuel supply member 15 is also used as a separator and is made of a gas impermeable conductive member. The fuel supply member 15 is formed with a distorted groove recessed from the surface thereof. The surface of the fuel supply member 15 where the groove is formed is opposed to the anode electrode 14. As a result, a fuel supply path 16 is formed between one surface of the anode electrode 14 and the other surface of the fuel supply member 15 (the surface on which the groove is formed) for bringing liquid fuel into contact with the entire anode electrode 14. The

  In the fuel supply path 16, a fuel supply port 18 for allowing liquid fuel to flow into the anode 12 is formed on one end side (lower side), and a fuel discharge port 17 for discharging the liquid fuel from the anode 12 is provided on the other end. It is formed on the side (upper side).

  The cathode 13 includes a cathode electrode 19 and an air supply member 20 for supplying air to the cathode electrode 19.

  The cathode electrode 19 is formed on the other surface of the electrolyte layer 11.

  Examples of the electrode material of the cathode electrode 19 include a catalyst-supporting porous carrier exemplified as the electrode material of the anode electrode 14.

  The air supply member 20 is also used as a separator and is made of a gas impermeable conductive member. The air supply member 20 is formed with a distorted groove recessed from the surface thereof. The air supply member 20 has a grooved surface in contact with the cathode electrode 19. As a result, an air supply path 21 is formed between the other surface of the cathode electrode 19 and one surface of the air supply member 20 (the surface on which the groove is formed) for bringing air into contact with the entire cathode electrode 19. .

In the air supply path 21, an air supply port 22 for allowing air to flow into the cathode 13 is formed on one end side, and an air discharge port 23 for discharging air from the cathode 13 is formed on the other end side. .
(2) Secondary gas supply device The secondary gas supply device 4 is provided for supplying an inert gas to the fuel cell main body 3, and a secondary gas tank for supplying the inert gas to the fuel cell main body 3. 24, a third line 25 connecting the secondary gas tank 24 and the receiving unit 7, and a fifth line 27 connecting the secondary gas tank 24 and the fuel cell main body 3.

  The secondary gas tank 24 is disposed behind the fuel cell main body 3 and on the rear side of the fuel cell vehicle 1 and above a secondary fuel tank 28 described later, and is inert supplied from a primary gas tank 55 described later. Store gas.

  One end (front end in the vehicle front-rear direction) of the third line 25 is connected to the secondary gas tank 24 via a sealing material (gasket or the like), and the other end (rear end in the vehicle front-rear direction) is connected to the receiving unit 7 and the seal. They are connected via a material (such as a gasket).

  A third valve 26 is provided midway in the flow direction of the third line 25.

  The third valve 26 is provided to switch the supply and stop of the inert gas to the secondary gas tank 24. For example, a known on-off valve such as an electromagnetic valve is used. The third valve 26 is electrically connected to the vehicle-side control unit 9 (see the broken line in FIG. 1). Thereby, the control signal from the vehicle side control unit 9 is input to the third valve 26, and the vehicle side control unit 9 controls the opening and closing of the third valve 26.

  In addition, although mentioned later in detail, the pressure detection means 61 (after-mentioned) can be provided in the 3rd line 25, specifically, the 3rd line 25 upstream from the 3rd valve 26 (virtual of FIG. 1). See line).

  In such a case, the pressure detection means 61 (described later) is provided to detect the internal pressure in the third line 25 and the line communicating with the third line 25 and is electrically connected to the vehicle-side control unit 9 (not shown). The

  The fifth line 27 has one end (front end in the vehicle front-rear direction) connected to the fuel cell main body 3 via a sealing material (gasket or the like), and the other end (rear end in the vehicle front-rear direction) is the secondary gas tank 24. It is connected via a sealing material (gasket etc.).

  A fifth valve 43 is provided midway in the flow direction of the fifth line 27.

The fifth valve 43 is provided to switch the supply and stop of the inert gas to the fuel cell main body 3, and a known on-off valve such as an electromagnetic valve is used. The fifth valve 43 is electrically connected to the vehicle-side control unit 9 (see the broken line in FIG. 1). Thereby, the control signal from the vehicle side control unit 9 is input to the fifth valve 43, and the vehicle side control unit 9 controls the opening and closing of the fifth valve 43.
(3) Secondary fuel supply device The secondary fuel supply device 5 is provided for supplying liquid fuel to the fuel cell main body 3, and a secondary fuel tank 28 for supplying liquid fuel to the fuel cell main body 3. And a fourth line 29 that connects the secondary fuel tank 28 and the receiving unit 7, and a sixth line 31 that connects the secondary fuel tank 28 and the fuel cell body 3.

  The secondary fuel tank 28 is disposed below the above-described secondary gas tank 24 on the rear side of the fuel cell main body 3 and on the rear side of the fuel cell vehicle 1, and the liquid supplied from the primary fuel tank 58 described later. Store fuel.

  The fourth line 29 has one end (front end in the vehicle front-rear direction) connected to the secondary fuel tank 28 via a sealing material (gasket or the like) and the other end (rear end in the vehicle front-rear direction) to the receiving portion 7. It is connected via a sealing material (gasket etc.).

  A fourth valve 30 is provided in the middle of the flow direction of the fourth line 29.

  The fourth valve 30 is provided to switch between supply and stop of the liquid fuel to the secondary fuel tank 28. For example, a known on-off valve such as an electromagnetic valve is used. Moreover, the 4th valve 30 is electrically connected to the vehicle side control unit 9 (refer the broken line of FIG. 1). Thereby, the control signal from the vehicle side control unit 9 is input to the fourth valve 30, and the vehicle side control unit 9 controls the opening and closing of the fourth valve 30.

  The sixth line 31 has one end (front end in the vehicle front-rear direction) connected to the fuel supply port 18 of the fuel cell main body 3 via a sealing material (gasket or the like) and the other end (rear end in the vehicle front-rear direction) 2. It is connected to the next fuel tank 28 via a sealing material (gasket or the like).

  A sixth valve 44 is provided in the middle of the flow direction of the sixth line 31.

The sixth valve 44 is provided to switch supply and stop of liquid fuel to the fuel cell main body 3, and a known on-off valve such as an electromagnetic valve is used. The sixth valve 44 is electrically connected to the vehicle-side control unit 9 (see the broken line in FIG. 1). Thereby, a control signal from the vehicle side control unit 9 is input to the sixth valve 44, and the vehicle side control unit 9 controls the opening and closing of the sixth valve 44.
(4) Gas discharge-fuel circulation section The gas discharge-fuel circulation section 6 discharges the generated gas and the inert gas in the above reaction from the fuel cell vehicle 1 and liquid fuel that has not been consumed by the fuel cell body 3 It is provided for circulating (unconsumed liquid fuel) to the fuel cell main body 3.

  The gas discharge-fuel circulation unit 6 includes a gas (specifically, an inert gas supplied from the secondary gas supply device 4 and a product gas obtained by a reaction in the fuel cell main body 3), and a fuel cell main body. 3 (specifically, the fuel supply passage 16 of the anode 12), a gas-fuel discharge line 32 for discharging unconsumed (unreacted) liquid fuel from the fuel cell main body 3, While separating the liquid fuel of reaction, the processing apparatus 33 for purifying the separated gas, the gas discharge line 34 for discharging the separated and purified gas to the outside, and the unreacted liquid fuel as secondary A return line 35 for returning to the fuel tank 28 is provided.

  One end (front end in the vehicle front-rear direction) of the gas-fuel discharge line 32 is connected to the processing device 33 via a sealing material (gasket or the like), and the other end (rear end in the vehicle front-rear direction) is connected to the fuel cell main body 3. , And connected through a sealing material (gasket etc.).

  The processing device 33 is a known processing device that separates gas and liquid fuel and can purify the separated gas. One end (front end in the vehicle front-rear direction) has a gas discharge line 34 and a sealing material (gasket or the like). And the other end (rear end in the vehicle front-rear direction) is connected to the gas-fuel discharge line 32 via a sealing material (such as a gasket).

  One end (front end in the vehicle front-rear direction) of the gas discharge line 34 is opened to the outside air, and the other end (rear end in the vehicle front-rear direction) is connected to the processing device 33 via a sealing material (gasket or the like).

  One end (front end in the vehicle front-rear direction) of the reflux line 35 is connected to the processing device 33 via a sealing material (gasket or the like), and the other end (rear end in the vehicle front-rear direction) is sealed to the secondary fuel tank 28. They are connected via a material (such as a gasket).

  That is, in the gas discharge-fuel circulation unit 6, the gas-fuel discharge line 32, the processing device 33, and the gas discharge line 34 are connected to each other, so that the gas discharged from the fuel cell body 3 is gas- A discharge path that sequentially passes through the fuel discharge line 32, the processing device 33, and the gas discharge line 34 to the outside air is formed.

  Further, the gas-fuel discharge line 32, the processing device 33, and the reflux line 35 are connected to each other, so that the liquid fuel discharged from the fuel cell main body 3 is supplied to the gas-fuel discharge line 32, the processing device 33, and A circulation path that sequentially passes through the reflux line 35 and returns to the secondary fuel tank 28 is formed.

Although not shown, in the gas discharge-fuel circulation section 6, the processing device 33 and the secondary fuel tank 28 are connected by an internal pressure adjusting pipe (not shown). The internal pressure of the processing device 33 and the secondary fuel tank 28 is adjusted by allowing a gas component to pass through an internal pressure adjusting pipe (not shown).
(5) Receiving Unit The receiving unit 7 is a common receiving unit that receives liquid fuel and inert gas, and is located behind the secondary gas tank 24 and the secondary fuel tank 28 and on the rear side of the fuel cell vehicle 1. It is provided so as to be connectable to a supply unit 53 of a supply source 50 described later.

  More specifically, the receiving unit 7 has one end (front end in the vehicle front-rear direction) having the other end of the third line 25 (rear end in the vehicle front-rear direction) and the other end of the fourth line 29 (rear end in the vehicle front-rear direction). And are connected via a sealing material (such as a gasket). The receiving unit 7 is disposed at the rear end of the fuel cell vehicle 1 so that the other end (the rear end in the vehicle front-rear direction) is open to the outside air.

The receiving unit 7 is sealed with a cap (not shown) when not in use.
(6) Air Supply / Exhaust Unit The air supply / exhaust unit 8 is provided for supplying and exhausting air for use in power generation reactions, and includes an air supply line 36 for supplying air to the cathode 13, and the cathode 13. And an air discharge line 37 for discharging the air discharged from the outside to the outside.

  One end side (upstream side) of the air supply line 36 is opened to the atmosphere, and the other end side (downstream side) is connected to the air supply port 22 of the fuel cell main body 3. A known air supply pump 38 such as an air compressor is interposed in the middle of the air supply line 36, and an air supply valve 39 is provided downstream thereof.

  The air supply pump 38 and the air supply valve 39 are electrically connected to the vehicle-side control unit 9 (see the broken line in FIG. 1), and a control signal from the vehicle-side control unit 9 is sent to the air supply pump 38. The vehicle-side control unit 9 controls driving and stopping of the air supply pump 38 and opening / closing of the air supply valve 39.

One end side (upstream side) of the air discharge line 37 is connected to the air discharge port 23 of the fuel cell main body 3, and the other end side (downstream side) is a drain.
(7) Vehicle-side control unit The vehicle-side control unit 9 is a unit (for example, ECU: Electronic Control Unit) that performs electrical control in the fuel cell vehicle 1, and is a microcomputer that includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, and the like. It is configured. The vehicle-side control unit 9 is capable of signal communication with the outside of the unit by electrical connection.

The vehicle-side control unit 9 is electrically connected to a supply-source-side control unit 54 (described later) at the time of fuel supply, and can perform a corresponding operation by exchanging electronic information with each other.
(8) Power unit The power unit 10 is provided to drive the fuel cell vehicle 1, and converts electrical energy output from the fuel cell main body 3 into mechanical energy as a driving force of the fuel cell vehicle 1. Motor 40, DC / DC converter 41, and inverter 42.

  The motor 40 is disposed in front of the fuel cell body 3 and on the front side of the fuel cell vehicle 1. Examples of the motor 40 include known three-phase motors such as a three-phase induction motor and a three-phase synchronous motor.

  The DC / DC converter 41 has a switching function for distributing input power to a plurality of devices connected thereto, and a step-down function for stepping down the input voltage. A positive electrode wiring 45 connected to the cathode 13 is connected to the positive input terminal of the DC / DC converter 41. On the other hand, a negative electrode wiring 46 connected to the anode 12 is connected to the negative input terminal of the DC / DC converter 41. The DC / DC converter 41 is electrically connected to the vehicle-side control unit 9 (see the broken line in FIG. 1).

The inverter 42 is connected in series between the motor 40 and the DC / DC converter 41. The inverter 42 is not particularly limited as long as it is a device capable of converting DC power into AC power, and includes, for example, a power conversion device in which a known inverter circuit is incorporated. The power output from the fuel cell main body 3 is distributed to the inverter 42 by the DC / DC converter 41, and is converted from the DC power to the three-phase AC power by the inverter 42, so that it is supplied to the motor 40 as the three-phase AC power. The
2. Supply Source Liquid fuel and inert gas are supplied (primary supply) from the supply source 50 of liquid fuel and inert gas to the fuel cell device 2 described above.

The supply source 50 is installed as a store such as a station (stand), for example, and includes a primary gas supply device 51, a primary fuel supply device 52, a supply unit 53, and a supply source side control unit 54. .
(1) Primary gas supply device The primary gas supply device 51 is provided for supplying an inert gas to the fuel cell device 2, and includes a primary gas tank 55 in which the inert gas is stored, and its primary gas. A first line 56 that connects the gas tank 55 and the supply unit 53 is provided.

  One end (vehicle side end) of the first line 56 is connected to the supply unit 53 via a sealing material (such as a gasket), and the other end is connected to a primary gas tank 55 and a sealing material (such as a gasket). It is connected.

  A first valve 57 is provided midway in the flow direction of the first line 56.

  The first valve 57 is provided to switch the supply and stop of the inert gas to the fuel cell device 2, and a known on-off valve such as an electromagnetic valve is used. Moreover, the 1st valve 57 is electrically connected to the supply source side control unit 54 (refer the broken line of FIG. 1). Thereby, the control signal from the supply source side control unit 54 is input to the first valve 57, and the supply source side control unit 54 controls the opening and closing of the first valve 57.

  Further, a pressure detecting means 61 is further provided on the first line 56, specifically, on the downstream side of the first valve 57 of the first line 56.

The pressure detection means 61 is provided to detect the internal pressure in the first line 56 and the line communicating with the first line 56, and is electrically connected to the supply source side control unit 54 (see the broken line in FIG. 1).
(2) Primary fuel supply device The primary fuel supply device 52 is provided to supply liquid fuel to the fuel cell device 2, and includes a primary fuel tank 58 in which the liquid fuel is stored, and the primary fuel. A second line 59 connecting the tank 58 and the supply unit 53 is provided.

  One end (vehicle side end) of the second line 59 is connected to the supply unit 53 via a sealing material (gasket or the like), and the other end is connected to the primary fuel tank 58 and a sealing material (gasket or the like). Connected.

  A second valve 60 is provided in the middle of the flow direction of the second line 59.

The second valve 60 is provided to switch supply and stop of liquid fuel to the fuel cell device 2, and a known on-off valve such as an electromagnetic valve is used. Moreover, the 2nd valve 60 is electrically connected to the supply source side control unit 54 (refer the broken line of FIG. 1). Thereby, the control signal from the supply source side control unit 54 is input to the second valve 60, and the supply source side control unit 54 controls the opening and closing of the second valve 60.
(3) Supply Unit The supply unit 53 is a common supply unit for supplying the liquid fuel and the inert gas to the fuel cell device 2, and is closer to the vehicle than the primary gas tank 55 and the primary fuel tank 58. It is provided so as to be connectable to the receiving unit 7 of the fuel cell device 2 described above.

  More specifically, the supply unit 53 is disposed at the vehicle side end of the supply source 50 so that one end (vehicle side end) thereof is open to the outside air, and the other end is the first line 56. Are connected to one end (vehicle side end) of the second line 59 and one end (vehicle side end) of the second line 59 via a sealing material (gasket or the like).

The supply unit 53 is sealed with a cap (not shown) when not in use.
(4) Supply-source-side control unit The supply-source-side control unit 54 is a unit (for example, ECU: Electronic Control Unit) that performs electrical control in the supply source 50 and includes a CPU, ROM, RAM, and the like. It consists of The supply source side control unit 54 can perform signal communication with the outside of the unit by electrical connection.

The supply source side control unit 54 is electrically connected to the vehicle side control unit 9 at the time of fuel supply, and is capable of corresponding operation by exchanging electronic information with each other.
3. Fuel Supply Method FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing the procedure of one embodiment of the fuel supply method of the present invention.

  Hereinafter, the procedure of the fuel supply method for the fuel cell device 2 will be described with reference to FIG. 2 together with FIG.

  In this method, first, the supply part 53 and the receiving part 7 are connected (step S1: connection process).

  At the same time, as indicated by a broken line in FIG. 1, the vehicle-side control unit 9 and the supply-source-side control unit 54 are electrically connected so that they can operate in correspondence with each other.

  In each of the subsequent steps, the valves, pressure detection means, and the like are controlled by the vehicle side control unit 9 and the supply source side control unit 54, respectively.

  Next, in this method, the first valve 57 is opened, the second valve 60 is closed, the third valve 26 is closed, and the fourth valve 30 after the connection step and before the liquid fuel supply step described later. Is closed. At this time, the fifth valve 43 and the sixth valve 44 are closed. Thereby, the 1st line 56, the supply part 53, and the receiving part 7 (further to the middle of the flow direction of the 3rd line 25) are made to communicate sequentially. Then, the inert gas supplied from the primary gas tank 55 in the first line 56, the supply unit 53, the receiving unit 7 and the third line 25 (specifically, the upstream side of the third valve 26) sequentially connected. Then, the first valve 57 is closed (step S2: gas filling step).

  Next, in this method, after the gas filling step and before the liquid fuel supply step, which will be described later, the pressure detection means 61 sequentially connects the first line 56 (specifically, the downstream side of the first valve). ), The internal pressure of the supply unit 53, the receiving unit 7 and the third line 25 (specifically, the upstream side of the third valve 26) is detected (step S3: pressure detection step).

  In such a fuel supply method, when the connection between the supply unit 53 and the receiving unit 7 is poor, or when the supply unit 53 and / or the receiving unit 7 is damaged due to deterioration, as described later, When liquid fuel is supplied, liquid fuel (including vaporized substances) may leak from the poorly connected or damaged portions.

  On the other hand, in such a fuel supply method, after the supply unit 53 and the receiving unit 7 are connected, before the liquid fuel is supplied, an inert gas is applied to the line including the connection unit of the supply unit 53 and the receiving unit 7. And the pressure is detected. At this time, leakage of the inert gas can be detected by measuring the pressure change.

  That is, according to such a fuel supply method, it is possible to detect a connection failure between the supply unit 53 and the receiving unit 7, damage due to deterioration, or the like before the liquid fuel is supplied. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the liquid fuel (including vaporized material) from leaking out at the above-mentioned poorly connected locations or damaged locations.

  Next, in this method, the first valve 57 is opened, the second valve 60 is closed, the third valve 26 is opened, the fourth valve 30 is closed, and the first line 56, the supply unit 53, and the receiving unit that are sequentially connected. The inert gas is supplied from the primary gas tank 55 to the secondary gas tank 24 (primary supply) via the seventh and third lines 25 (step S4: inert gas supply process).

  Next, in this method, the first valve 57 is closed, the second valve 60 is opened, the third valve 26 is closed, and the fourth valve 30 is opened. The second line 59, the supply unit 53, and the receiving unit are sequentially connected. The liquid fuel is supplied (primary supply) from the primary fuel tank 58 to the secondary fuel tank 28 via the seventh and fourth lines 29 (step S5: liquid fuel supply process).

  Next, in this method, the first valve 57 is opened, the second valve 60 is closed, the third valve 26 is closed, and the fourth valve 30 after the liquid fuel supply step and before the separation step described later. The first line 56, the supply unit 53, the receiving unit 7 and the fourth line 29 that are sequentially connected are purged with the inert gas supplied from the primary gas tank 55, and the supply unit 53, the receiving unit 7 and The liquid fuel in the fourth line 29 is transported to the secondary fuel tank 28 (step S6: gas purge process).

  If the connected supply unit 53 and the receiving unit 7 are separated after the liquid fuel is supplied, for example, when the liquid fuel remaining at the connection part of the supply unit 53 and the receiving unit 7 causes dripping, or the liquid fuel May adhere to the outside.

  On the other hand, in such a fuel supply method, even when the liquid fuel remains at the connection portion between the supply unit 53 and the receiving unit 7 after the liquid fuel is supplied, before the supply unit 53 and the receiving unit 7 are separated, The liquid fuel remaining in the supply unit 53, the receiving unit 7 and the fourth line 29 is transported to the secondary fuel tank 28 by an inert gas. Therefore, it is possible to prevent liquid fuel from dripping and adhering when the supply unit 53 and the receiving unit 7 are separated.

  Next, in this method, the supply unit 53 and the receiving unit 7 are separated (step S7: separation step).

  With such a fuel supply method, the liquid fuel and the inert gas can be supplied from the supply source 50 to the fuel cell device 2.

  In such a fuel supply method, an inert gas supply step in which an inert gas is supplied from the primary gas tank 55 to the secondary gas tank 24, and liquid fuel is supplied from the primary fuel tank 58 to the secondary fuel tank 28. Since the common supply unit 53 and the common receiving unit 7 are used in the liquid fuel supply process, the number of parts can be reduced and the space can be saved.

Further, in such a fuel supply method, the inert gas and the liquid fuel are respectively supplied between the connecting step for connecting the supply unit 53 and the receiving unit 7 and the separation step for separating them. Therefore, the inert gas and the liquid fuel can be supplied in one operation (a series of operations). As a result, when only one of the inert gas and the liquid fuel is supplied and the fuel cell main body 3 is operated, it is possible to prevent the inert gas shortage or the fuel shortage from occurring.
4). Electricity generation by the fuel cell device In the fuel cell device 2 described above, the fifth valve 43 is opened and the sixth valve 44 is closed under the control of the vehicle-side control unit 9 at the time of start and stop. The inert gas is supplied to the fuel cell main body 3 (the fuel supply path 16 and the air supply path 21) through the fifth line 27 and is filled.

  Further, during power generation, the fifth valve 43 is closed and the sixth valve 44 is opened under the control of the vehicle-side control unit 9, and liquid fuel is supplied from the secondary fuel tank 28 via the sixth line 31. 3 to the anode 12. On the other hand, when the air supply valve 39 is opened and the air supply pump 38 is driven, air is supplied to the fuel cell body 3 cathode 13 via the air supply line 36. The sixth valve 44 is closed after a predetermined amount of liquid fuel is supplied.

  In the anode 12, the liquid fuel passes through the fuel supply path 16 while being in contact with the anode electrode 14. On the other hand, at the cathode 13, air passes through the air supply path 21 while being in contact with the cathode electrode 19.

Then, an electrochemical reaction occurs in each electrode (the anode electrode 14 and the cathode electrode 19), and an electromotive force is generated. For example, when the liquid fuel is methanol, the following formulas (1) to (3) are obtained.
(1) CH ₃ OH + 6OH ⁻ → CO ₂ + 5H ₂ O + 6e ⁻ (reaction at the anode electrode 14)
(2) O ₂ + 2H ₂ O + 4e ⁻ → 4OH ⁻ (reaction at the cathode electrode 19)
(3) CH ₃ OH + 3 / 2O ₂ → CO ₂ + 2H ₂ O (reaction in the entire fuel cell body 3)
That is, at the anode electrode 14 supplied with methanol, methanol (CH ₃ OH) reacts with hydroxide ions (OH ⁻ ) generated by the reaction at the cathode electrode 19 to react with carbon dioxide (CO ₂ ) and water. (H ₂ O) is generated and electrons (e ⁻ ) are generated (see the above formula (1)).

Electrons (e ⁻ ) generated at the anode electrode 14 reach the cathode electrode 19 via an external circuit (not shown). That is, electrons (e ⁻ ) passing through the external circuit become current.

On the other hand, in the cathode electrode 19, electrons (e ⁻ ), water (H ₂ O) generated by a reaction from the outside or the fuel cell main body 3, and oxygen (O ₂ ) in the air flowing through the air supply path 21. ) React with each other to produce hydroxide ions (OH ⁻ ) (see the above formula (2)).

And the produced | generated hydroxide ion (OH < ^- >) passes the electrolyte layer 11, reaches the anode electrode 14, and reaction (refer said Formula (1)) similar to the above arises.

For example, when the liquid fuel is hydrazine, the following formulas (4) to (6) are obtained.
(4) N ₂ H ₄ + 4OH ⁻ → N ₂ + 4H ₂ O + 4e ⁻ (reaction at the anode electrode 14)
(5) O ₂ + 2H ₂ O + 4e ⁻ → 4OH ⁻ (reaction at the cathode electrode 19)
(6) N ₂ H ₄ + O ₂ → N ₂ + 2H ₂ O (reaction in the entire fuel cell body 3)
When the electrochemical reaction at the anode electrode 14 and the cathode electrode 19 is continuously generated, the reaction represented by the above formula (3) or the above formula (6) occurs in the fuel cell main body 3 as a whole. An electromotive force is generated in the fuel cell main body 3.

  In the power unit 10, the generated electromotive force is transmitted to the DC / DC converter 41 via the positive electrode wiring 45 and the negative electrode wiring 46, and is transmitted to the inverter 42. In the motor 40, the electrical energy converted into the three-phase AC power by the inverter 42 is converted into mechanical energy that drives the wheels of the fuel cell vehicle 1.

  In addition, the gas generated by the reaction, the supplied inert gas, and the like and the unconsumed (unreacted) liquid fuel are introduced into the processing device 33 via the gas-fuel discharge line 32.

  In the processing device 33, the gas and the unreacted liquid fuel are separated, and the separated gas is purified.

  The separated and purified gas passes through the gas discharge line 34 and is discharged to the outside air, while the separated liquid fuel is circulated to the secondary fuel tank 28 via the reflux line 35. The internal pressures of the processing device 33 and the secondary fuel tank 28 are appropriately adjusted by an internal pressure adjusting pipe (not shown).

  The fuel cell vehicle 1 can be driven by the electric power thus generated.

  In such a fuel cell vehicle 1, the above-described fuel supply method is adopted, that is, an inert gas supply step in which an inert gas is supplied from the primary gas tank 55 to the secondary gas tank 24, and the primary fuel. In the liquid fuel supply process in which the liquid fuel is supplied from the tank 58 to the secondary fuel tank 28, the common supply unit 53 and the common receiving unit 7 are used, so the number of parts is reduced and the space is saved. be able to.

  Further, in such a fuel cell vehicle 1, the inert gas and the liquid fuel are respectively supplied between the connection step for connecting the supply unit 53 and the receiving unit 7 and the separation step for separating them. Therefore, the inert gas and the liquid fuel can be supplied in one operation (a series of operations). As a result, when only one of the inert gas and the liquid fuel is supplied and the fuel cell main body 3 is operated, it is possible to prevent the inert gas shortage or the fuel shortage from occurring.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Fuel cell vehicle 2 Fuel cell apparatus 3 Fuel cell main body 7 Receiving part 24 Secondary gas tank 25 3rd line 26 3rd valve 28 Secondary fuel tank 29 4th line 30 4th valve 53 Supply part 55 Primary gas tank 56 1st Line 57 First valve 58 Primary fuel tank 59 Second line 60 Second valve

Claims (4)

A fuel supply method for supplying liquid fuel and inert gas from a supply source of liquid fuel and inert gas to a fuel cell device,
The source is
A primary gas tank in which inert gas is stored,
A primary fuel tank in which liquid fuel is stored;
A common supply for supplying liquid fuel and inert gas to the fuel cell device;
A first line connecting the primary gas tank and the supply unit;
A second line connecting the primary fuel tank and the supply unit;
A first valve provided in the first line for switching between supply and stop of the inert gas; and
A second valve provided in the second line for switching between supply and stop of liquid fuel;
The fuel cell device comprises:
A fuel cell body that generates electricity by a reaction that consumes liquid fuel;
A secondary gas tank for supplying an inert gas to the fuel cell body;
A secondary fuel tank for supplying liquid fuel to the fuel cell body;
A common receiving section for receiving liquid fuel and inert gas,
A third line connecting the secondary gas tank and the receiving unit;
A fourth line connecting the secondary fuel tank and the receiving unit;
A third valve provided in the third line for switching between supply and stop of the inert gas; and
A fourth valve provided in the fourth line for switching between supply and stop of liquid fuel;
A connecting step of connecting the supply unit and the receiving unit;
The first valve is opened, the second valve is closed, the third valve is opened, and the fourth valve is closed. The first line, the supply unit, the receiving unit, and the third line are sequentially connected. An inert gas supply step of supplying an inert gas from the primary gas tank to the secondary gas tank via
The first line is closed, the second valve is opened, the third valve is closed, and the fourth valve is opened. The second line, the supply unit, the receiving unit, and the fourth line are sequentially connected. A liquid fuel supply step of supplying liquid fuel from the primary fuel tank to the secondary fuel tank via
A fuel supply method comprising: a separation step of separating the supply unit and the receiving unit. Furthermore, the first line or the third line is provided with pressure detection means,
After the connecting step and before the liquid fuel supplying step,
The first valve is opened, the second valve is closed, the third valve is closed, and the fourth valve is closed. The first line, the supply unit, the receiving unit, and the third line are sequentially connected. A gas filling step of filling the inside with the inert gas supplied from a primary gas tank;
After the gas filling step and before the liquid fuel supply step,
The pressure detection step of detecting a pressure inside the first line, the supply unit, the receiving unit, and the third line sequentially connected by the pressure detection unit. The fuel supply method described in 1. After the liquid fuel supply step and before the separation step,
The first valve is opened, the second valve is closed, the third valve is closed, the fourth valve is opened, and the first line, the supply unit, the receiving unit, and the fourth line that are sequentially connected are connected. Purging with an inert gas supplied from the primary gas tank,
The fuel supply method according to claim 1, further comprising a gas purge step of transporting liquid fuel in the supply unit, the receiving unit, and the fourth line to the secondary fuel tank. A fuel cell vehicle comprising the fuel cell device, wherein the fuel supply method according to claim 1 is employed.
The fuel cell device comprises:
A fuel cell body that generates electricity by a reaction that consumes liquid fuel;
A secondary gas tank for supplying an inert gas to the fuel cell body;
A secondary fuel tank for supplying liquid fuel to the fuel cell body;
A common receiving section for receiving liquid fuel and inert gas,
A third line connecting the secondary gas tank and the receiving unit;
A fourth line connecting the secondary fuel tank and the receiving unit;
A third valve provided in the third line for switching between supply and stop of the inert gas; and
A fuel cell vehicle comprising a fourth valve provided in the fourth line for switching between supply and stop of liquid fuel.