JP2015070747A - Power generation system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a power generation system that suppresses breakage.SOLUTION: In a power generation system 1 including a heat source 2 whose temperature varies over time, a first device 3 whose temperature varies over time with a temperature change of the heat source 2 to develop electric polarization, and a second device 4 for extracting power from the first device 3, the first device 3 is cylindrical. In the power generation system 1, the first device 3 is cylindrical and can thus distribute a stress to suppress breakage more than if the first device 3 is formed in a flat plate.

Description

  The present invention relates to a power generation system, and more particularly to a power generation system mounted on a vehicle such as an automobile.

  Conventionally, in internal combustion engines such as automobile engines, heat exchangers such as boilers and air conditioning equipment, electric engines such as generators and motors, and various energy utilization devices such as light emitting devices such as lighting, for example, as exhaust heat, light, etc. A lot of thermal energy is released and lost.

  In recent years, from the viewpoint of energy saving, it has been required to recover the released thermal energy and reuse it as an energy source. As such a system, specifically, for example, a heat source whose temperature rises and falls over time, and a flat plate-like first electrode that is electrically polarized by a piezo effect, a pyroelectric effect, a Seebeck effect, or the like according to a temperature change of the heat source. A power generation system including one device (such as a dielectric) and a second device (such as an electrode) disposed so as to sandwich the first device in order to extract electric power from the first device has been proposed. In such a power generation system, it has been proposed to alternately stack and use flat first devices and second devices (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2011-250675 A

  On the other hand, in the power generation system described in Patent Document 1, since the first device has a flat plate shape, stress concentration tends to occur, and for example, damage may occur due to vibration during use.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a power generation system capable of suppressing breakage.

  In order to achieve the above object, a power generation system according to the present invention includes a heat source whose temperature rises and falls over time, a first device whose temperature rises and falls over time due to a temperature change of the heat source, and the first device. And a second device for extracting power from the first device, wherein the first device is cylindrical.

  In the power generation system of the present invention, it is preferable that the first device is cylindrical.

In the power generation system of the present invention, the second device may include a cylindrical electrode, and the first device and the electrode may be alternately arranged along the axial direction of the first device. Is preferred.

  In the power generation system of the present invention, the second device may include a cylindrical electrode, and the first device and the electrode may be alternately arranged along the radial direction of the first device. Is preferred.

  In the power generation system of the present invention, since the first device is cylindrical, stress can be dispersed and breakage can be suppressed compared to the case where the first device is formed in a flat plate shape.

FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram showing an embodiment of a power generation system of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view showing an embodiment of the first device and the second device used in the power generation system of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view along the axial direction showing a form in which the first devices shown in FIG. 2 are electrically connected in series. FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view along the axial direction showing a form in which the first devices shown in FIG. 2 are electrically connected in parallel. FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view showing another embodiment of the first device and the second device used in the power generation system of the present invention. 6 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the first device and the second device shown in FIG. 5 along the radial direction. FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view along the axial direction showing a first mode in which the first devices shown in FIG. 5 are electrically connected in series. FIG. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view along the axial direction showing a second form in which the first devices shown in FIG. 5 are electrically connected in series. FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view along the axial direction showing a first mode in which the first devices shown in FIG. 5 are electrically connected in parallel. FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view along the axial direction showing a second mode in which the first devices shown in FIG. 5 are electrically connected in parallel. FIG. 11 is a schematic configuration diagram showing an embodiment in which the power generation system of the present invention is mounted on a vehicle. FIG. 12 is an enlarged view of a main part of the power generation system shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 1, a power generation system 1 includes a heat source 2 whose temperature rises and falls over time, a first device 3 that is electrically polarized by a temperature change of the heat source 2, and a second device 4 that extracts electric power from the first device 3. It has.

  The heat source 2 is not particularly limited as long as the temperature rises and falls over time, and examples thereof include various energy utilization devices such as an internal combustion engine and a light emitting device.

  An internal combustion engine is a device that outputs power, for example, for a vehicle. For example, a single cylinder type or a multi-cylinder type is adopted, and a multi-cycle type (for example, a 2-cycle type, a 4-cycle type) is used in each cylinder. System, 6-cycle system, etc.) are employed.

  In such an internal combustion engine, pistons are repeatedly moved up and down in each cylinder. For example, in a 4-cycle system, an intake process, a compression process, an explosion process, an exhaust process, and the like are sequentially performed, and fuel is discharged. It is burned and power is output.

  In such an internal combustion engine, in the exhaust process, high-temperature exhaust gas is exhausted through an exhaust gas pipe, heat energy is transmitted using the exhaust gas as a heat medium, and the internal temperature of the exhaust gas pipe rises.

  On the other hand, in the other steps (steps excluding the exhaust step), the amount of exhaust gas in the exhaust gas pipe is reduced, so that the internal temperature of the exhaust gas pipe decreases compared to the exhaust process.

  As described above, the temperature of the internal combustion engine rises in the exhaust process and falls in the intake process, the compression process, and the explosion process, that is, rises and falls over time.

  In particular, since each of the above steps is periodically and sequentially repeated according to the piston cycle, the inside of the exhaust gas pipe of each cylinder in the internal combustion engine is periodically cycled with the repetition cycle of each of the above steps. A temperature change, more specifically, a high temperature state and a low temperature state are periodically repeated.

  When the light emitting device is turned on (emission light), for example, light such as infrared rays and visible light is used as a heat medium, and the temperature rises due to the heat energy. Therefore, the temperature of the light emitting device increases and decreases over time by turning on (emitting) and turning off over time.

  In particular, for example, when the light-emitting device is a light-emitting device (blinking (flashing) type light-emitting device) in which lighting is turned on and off intermittently over time, the light-emitting device is turned on (light-emitting). Due to the thermal energy of the light, a temperature change periodically, more specifically, a high temperature state and a low temperature state are periodically repeated.

  Moreover, as the heat source 2, for example, a plurality of heat sources can be provided, and a temperature change can be caused by switching between the plurality of heat sources.

  More specifically, for example, two heat sources, a low-temperature heat source (such as a coolant) and a high-temperature heat source (eg, a heating material) having a higher temperature than the low-temperature heat source, are prepared as the heat source. A mode in which a low-temperature heat source and a high-temperature heat source are alternately switched is used.

  Thereby, the temperature as a heat source can be raised or lowered with time, and in particular, the temperature can be periodically changed by periodically switching the low-temperature heat source and the high-temperature heat source.

  Although it does not restrict | limit especially as the heat source 2 provided with the several heat source which can be switched, For example, the high temperature air provided with the low temperature air supply system for combustion, the thermal storage heat exchanger, the high temperature gas exhaust system, and the supply / exhaust switching valve Combustion furnace (for example, a high-temperature gas generator described in Republished No. 96-5474), for example, a seawater exchange device (hydrogen storage alloy actuator-type seawater exchange device) using a high-temperature heat source, a low-temperature heat source, and a hydrogen storage alloy Is mentioned.

  As these heat sources 2, the said heat source can be used individually or in combination with 2 or more types.

  The heat source 2 is preferably a heat source whose temperature changes periodically with time.

  The heat source 2 is preferably an internal combustion engine.

  The first device 3 is a device that is electrically polarized in accordance with a temperature change of the heat source 2.

  The electric polarization referred to here is a phenomenon in which a potential difference occurs due to dielectric polarization due to displacement of positive and negative ions due to crystal distortion, such as a piezo effect and / or a phenomenon in which a dielectric constant changes due to a temperature change and a potential difference occurs, such as pyroelectricity. It is defined as a phenomenon in which an electromotive force is generated in a material, such as an effect.

  More specifically, examples of the first device 3 include a device that is electrically polarized by a piezo effect, a device that is electrically polarized by a pyroelectric effect, and the like.

  The piezo effect is an effect (phenomenon) in which when a stress or strain is applied, it is electrically polarized according to the magnitude of the stress or strain.

  The first device 3 that is electrically polarized by the piezo effect is not particularly limited, and a known piezo element (piezoelectric element) can be used.

  When a piezo element is used as the first device 3, the piezo element, for example, receives and transfers heat from the heat source 2 in a state where its periphery is fixed by a fixing member and volume expansion is suppressed, and / or Arranged to be cooled.

  The fixing member is not particularly limited, and for example, a second device 4 (for example, an electrode) described later can be used.

  In such a case, the piezo element is heated or cooled (possibly via a heat medium (exhaust gas, light, etc.) as described above) due to a change in temperature of the heat source 2 with time, thereby expanding. Or shrink.

  At this time, since the volume expansion of the piezo element is suppressed by the fixing member, the piezo element is pressed by the fixing member and is electrically polarized by the piezo effect (piezoelectric effect) or phase transformation near the Curie point. . Thereby, as will be described in detail later, power is extracted from the piezo element via the second device 4.

  In addition, such a piezo element is normally maintained in a heated state or a cooled state, and when its temperature becomes constant (that is, a constant volume), the electric polarization is neutralized, and then cooled or heated, Again, it is electrically polarized.

  Therefore, as described above, when the temperature of the heat source 2 periodically changes and the high temperature state and the low temperature state are periodically repeated, the piezo element is periodically heated and cooled. Electrical polarization and its neutralization are repeated periodically.

  As a result, electric power is extracted as a waveform (for example, alternating current, pulsating flow, etc.) that fluctuates periodically by the second device 4 described later.

  The pyroelectric effect is, for example, an effect (phenomenon) in which the insulator is electrically polarized in accordance with a change in temperature when the insulator (dielectric) is heated and cooled, and includes the first effect and the second effect. It is out.

  The first effect is an effect in which, when the insulator is heated and cooled, it spontaneously polarizes due to the temperature change and generates a charge on the surface of the insulator.

  In addition, the second effect is an effect that pressure deformation occurs in the crystal structure due to temperature changes during heating and cooling of the insulator, and piezoelectric polarization occurs due to stress or strain applied to the crystal structure (piezo effect, piezoelectric effect). ).

  The device that is electrically polarized by such a pyroelectric effect is not particularly limited, and a known pyroelectric element can be used.

  When a pyroelectric element is used as the first device 3, the pyroelectric element is disposed so as to transfer heat of the heat source 2 and to be heated and / or cooled.

  In such a case, the pyroelectric element is heated or cooled (possibly via a heat medium (exhaust gas, light, etc.) described above) due to a change in temperature of the heat source 2 with time, and the pyroelectric effect (first The electric polarization is caused by the first effect and the second effect. Thereby, although mentioned later in detail, electric power is taken out from the pyroelectric element via the second device 4.

  Also, such pyroelectric elements are usually maintained in a heated state or a cooled state, and when the temperature becomes constant, the electric polarization is neutralized, and then cooled or heated again to be electrically polarized again. .

  Therefore, when the temperature of the heat source 2 is periodically changed as described above and the high temperature state and the low temperature state are periodically repeated, the pyroelectric element is periodically heated and cooled. The electrical polarization of the element and its neutralization are repeated periodically.

  As a result, electric power is extracted as a waveform (for example, alternating current, pulsating flow, etc.) that fluctuates periodically by the second device 4 described later.

  These first devices 3 can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

Specifically, as described above, the first device 3 is a known pyroelectric element (for example, BaTiO ₃ , CaTiO ₃ , (CaBi) TiO ₃ , BaNd ₂ Ti ₅ O ₁₄ , BaSm ₂ Ti _4. O ₁₂ , lead zirconate titanate (PZT: Pb (Zr, Ti) O ₃ ), etc., known piezo elements (eg, quartz (SiO ₂ ), zinc oxide (ZnO), Rochelle salt (potassium sodium tartrate) _{(KNaC 4 H 4 O 6)} , lead zirconate titanate (PZT: Pb (Zr, Ti ) O 3), lithium niobate (LiNbO _3), lithium tantalate (LiTaO _3), lithium tetraborate _(Li 2 B ₄ O ₇ ), Langasite (La ₃ Ga ₅ SiO ₁₄ ), Aluminum Nitride (AlN), Tourmaline, Poly Vinylidene fluoride (PVDF), etc.), Ca ₃ (VO ₄ ) ₂ , Ca ₃ (VO ₄ ) ₂ / Ni, LiNbO ₃ , LiNbO ₃ / Ni, LiTaO ₃ , LiTaO ₃ / Ni, Li (Nb _0.4 Ta _0.6 ) O ₃ , Li (Nb _0.4 Ta _0.6 ) O ₃ / Ni, Ca ₃ {(Nb, Ta) O ₄ } ₂ , Ca ₃ {(Nb, Ta) O ₄ } ₂ / Ni Etc. can be used.

Further, as the first device 3, LaNbO ₃ , LiNbO ₃ , KNbO ₃ , MgNbO ₃ , CaNbO ₃ , (K _1/2 Na _1/2 ) NbO ₃ , (Bi _1/2 K _1/4 Na _{1) / 4} ) NbO ₃ , (Sr _1/100 (K _1/2 Na _1/2 ) _99/100 ) NbO ₃ , (Ba _1/100 (K _1/2 Na _1/2 ) _99/100 ) NbO ₃ , A dielectric such as (Li _1/10 (K _1/2 Na _1/2 ) _9/10 ) NbO ₃ can also be used.

  The Curie point of the first device 3 is, for example, −77 ° C. or higher, preferably −10 ° C. or higher, for example, 1300 ° C. or lower, preferably 900 ° C. or lower.

  The relative dielectric constant of the first device 3 (insulator (dielectric)) is, for example, 1 or more, preferably 100 or more, more preferably 2000 or more.

  In such a power generation system 1, the higher the relative dielectric constant of the first device 3 (insulator (dielectric)), the higher the energy conversion efficiency and the higher voltage can be taken out. If the relative dielectric constant is less than the above lower limit, the energy conversion efficiency is low, and the voltage of the obtained power may be low.

  The first device 3 (insulator (dielectric)) is electrically polarized by the temperature change of the heat source 2, and the electrical polarization may be any of electronic polarization, ionic polarization, and orientation polarization.

  For example, it is expected that a material that exhibits polarization by orientation polarization (for example, a liquid crystal material) can improve power generation efficiency by changing its molecular structure.

  Such a first device 3 is in contact with the heat source 2 through a second device 4 (described later) as necessary, or a heat medium (exhaust gas, light, etc.) that transfers the heat of the heat source 2. Arranged to be contacted (exposed).

  In FIG. 1, the second device 4 is provided to extract power from the first device 3.

  Such a second device 4 includes an electrode (for example, a copper electrode, a silver electrode, etc.) 9 and a conductive wire 21 (described later) connected to the electrode, and is disposed so as to contact the first device 3. ing.

  Specifically, in such a power generation system 1, as shown in FIG. 2, a power generation unit 8 is formed by a plurality of first devices 3 and a plurality of electrodes 9 of the second devices 4. In FIG. 2, the conducting wire 21 (described later) of the second device 4 is omitted.

  The first device 3 is formed in a cylindrical shape, preferably a cylindrical shape, and a plurality of first devices 3 are provided.

  Note that the inner diameter, outer diameter, and axial length of the first device 3 are appropriately set according to the purpose and application.

  The electrode 9 is formed in a cylindrical shape, preferably a cylindrical shape, and a plurality of electrodes 9 are provided.

  The inner diameter of the electrode 9 is appropriately set so as to be slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the first device 3 or substantially the same as the inner diameter of the first device 3.

  In addition, the outer diameter of the electrode 9 is appropriately set so as to be slightly larger than the outer diameter of the first device 3.

  Moreover, the axial direction length of the electrode 9 is appropriately set according to the purpose and application.

  And in this electric power generation system 1, the cylindrical 1st device 3 and the cylindrical electrode 9 share the axis line, comprise 1 row, and are alternately so that it may mutually contact along an axial direction. Has been placed. Thus, a cylindrical power generation unit 8 is formed from the plurality of first devices 3 and the plurality of electrodes 9. It should be noted that electrodes 9 are preferably disposed at both ends in the axial direction.

  The axial length of the power generation unit 8 to be obtained is not particularly limited, and is determined by the axial length of the first device 3 and the electrode 9.

  The power generation unit 8 is provided with a cover material 22 as necessary.

  The cover material 22 is made of, for example, a known dielectric and is formed in a cylindrical shape, preferably a cylindrical shape. The cover member 22 is disposed on the radially inner side of the power generation unit 8, that is, in the cylinder of the power generation unit 8 so as to contact the radially inner surface of the power generation unit 8. As a result, the radially inner surface of the power generation unit 8 is covered with the cover material 22. Note that the size of the cover material 22 is appropriately set according to the purpose and application.

  Moreover, although not shown in figure, a cover material (not shown) can be provided also in the radial direction outer surface of the 1st device 3 and the electrode 9, and also the axial direction both ends edge of the electric power generation unit 8 as needed. .

  In such a power generation unit 8, the first devices 3 are preferably electrically connected in series or in parallel via the electrodes 9 and the conductive wires of the second devices 4.

  For example, when each first device 3 is electrically connected in series, for example, as shown in FIG. 3, each first device 3 and each electrode 9 has a plurality of via holes penetrating in the axial direction ( 2), and the conductive wire 21 of the second device 4 is passed through each via hole.

  Moreover, when each 1st device 3 is electrically connected in parallel, as shown in FIG. 4, for example, the conducting wire 21 is connected to each electrode 9, and they are bundled.

  Such a power generation unit 8 is not particularly limited. For example, the power generation unit 8 is manufactured by arranging the cylindrical first device 3 and the cylindrical electrode 9 as described above.

  The obtained power generation unit 8 (first device 3 and second device 4) is sequentially supplied to a booster 5, an AC / DC converter (AC-DC converter) 6, and a battery 7, as shown in FIG. Electrically connected.

  In order to generate power with such a power generation system 1, for example, first, the temperature of the heat source 2 is changed over time, preferably periodically, and the first device 3 is heated and heated by the heat source 2. / Or cool. The first device 3 described above is preferably electrically polarized periodically in accordance with such a temperature change.

  Thereafter, the electric power is taken out as a waveform (for example, alternating current, pulsating current, etc.) that periodically fluctuates according to the periodic electric polarization of the first device 3 through the second device 4.

  In such a power generation system 1, the temperature of the heat source 2 is, for example, 200 to 1200 ° C., preferably 700 to 900 ° C. in the high temperature state, and the temperature in the low temperature state is lower than the temperature in the high temperature state. More specifically, for example, 100 to 800 ° C., preferably 200 to 500 ° C., and the temperature difference between the high temperature state and the low temperature state is, for example, 10 to 600 ° C., preferably 20 to 500 ° C. is there.

  Moreover, the repetition period of these high temperature states and low temperature states is, for example, 10 to 400 cycles / second, preferably 30 to 100 cycles / second.

  Then, the electric power extracted by the power generation system 1 in this manner is boosted in a state of a waveform (for example, alternating current, pulsating current) that periodically varies in the booster 5 connected to the second device 4. As the booster 5, a booster capable of boosting AC voltage with excellent efficiency by a simple configuration using, for example, a coil and a capacitor is used.

  Next, the electric power boosted by the booster 5 is converted into a DC voltage by the AC / DC converter 6 and then stored in the battery 7.

  According to such a power generation system 1, since the heat source 2 whose temperature rises and falls with time is used, a fluctuating voltage (for example, an AC voltage) can be extracted, and as a result, a constant voltage (DC voltage) is extracted. Compared to the above, it is possible to store the electric power by boosting with excellent efficiency by a simple configuration.

  In addition, if the heat source 2 is a heat source that periodically changes in temperature, electric power can be extracted as a waveform that varies periodically. As a result, the electric power can be boosted with higher efficiency and stored with a simple configuration. can do.

  Furthermore, in such a power generation system 1, since the first device 3 has a cylindrical shape, in particular, a cylindrical shape, the stress can be dispersed as compared with the case where the first device 3 is formed in a flat plate shape. Damage can be suppressed.

  In such a power generation system 1, since the first devices 3 and the electrodes 9 are alternately arranged along the axial direction of the first device 3, the first devices 3 are connected in series and / or in parallel. Can be electrically connected, and more efficient power generation can be achieved.

  Moreover, in such a power generation system 1, since the first device 3 has a cylindrical shape, in particular, a cylindrical shape, the wiring is simplified and made compact compared to the case where the first device 3 is formed in a flat plate shape. Therefore, space saving can be achieved.

  That is, when the first device 3 is formed in a flat plate shape, it is necessary to connect the conducting wire 21 to each first device 3 via the electrode 9. On the other hand, in the power generation system 1 in which the first device 3 is formed in a cylindrical shape, the conductive wire 21 can be provided so as to penetrate all the first devices 3 and the electrodes 9 as described above. Therefore, the wiring can be simplified and made compact, and space can be saved.

  Moreover, in such a power generation system 1, since the cover member 22 is provided on the radially inner surface of the power generation unit 8, the first device 3 and the electrode 9 can be protected.

  That is, for example, when an internal combustion engine is used as the heat source 2, exhaust gas is introduced into the cylinder of the power generation unit 8, and the heat energy of the heat source 2 is transmitted to the first device 3 using the exhaust gas as a heat medium. Is done.

  However, when an internal combustion engine is used as the heat source 2 in this way, the exhaust gas used as the heat medium is a corrosive gas or, for example, a conductive material such as water droplets or particulate matter (carbon-containing particles). It may be a gas containing a sexual substance.

  For this reason, when the exhaust gas contacts the first device 3 or the electrode 9, a short circuit may occur between the electrodes 9 or the first device 3 or the electrode 9 may be damaged.

  On the other hand, in the power generation system 1 described above, since the first device 3 and the electrode 9 are covered with the cover material 22, the first device 3 and the electrode 9 can be prevented from coming into contact with the exhaust gas. As a result, a short circuit between the electrodes 9 can be suppressed, and the first device 3 and the electrodes 9 can be protected.

  In the above description, the first devices 3 and the electrodes 9 are alternately arranged along the axial direction of the first device 3, but as shown in FIGS. 9 may be alternately arranged along the radial direction of the first device 3.

  More specifically, as illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6, the power generation unit 8 includes a plurality of first devices 3 and a plurality of electrodes 9. 5 and 6, the conductive wire 21 (described later) of the second device 4 is omitted.

  In the power generation unit 8, the plurality of first devices 3 are formed so that their radial lengths are different from each other and their axial lengths are substantially the same. Therefore, the inner diameter and the outer diameter of each first device 3 are different from each other. The inner diameter, outer diameter, thickness, and axial length of the first device 3 are appropriately set according to the purpose and application.

  The plurality of electrodes 9 are formed so that their radial lengths are different from each other and their axial lengths are substantially the same. Therefore, the inner diameter and outer diameter of each electrode 9 are different from each other. The inner diameter, outer diameter, thickness, and axial length of the electrode 9 are appropriately set according to the purpose and application. Further, the axial length of each electrode 9 is appropriately set so as to be slightly longer than the axial length of the first device 3.

  In the power generation system 1, the cylindrical first device 3 and the cylindrical electrode 9 are arranged substantially concentrically in a cross-sectional view so as to share the axis, and are in contact with each other along the radial direction. As shown in FIG. Thus, a cylindrical power generation unit 8 is formed from the plurality of first devices 3 and the plurality of electrodes 9. The electrodes 9 are preferably disposed at both ends in the radial direction.

  The axial length of the power generation unit 8 to be obtained is not particularly limited, and is determined by the axial length of the first device 3 and the electrode 9.

  The power generation unit 8 is provided with a cover material 22 as necessary.

  The cover material 22 is made of, for example, a known dielectric, and covers the radial outer surface and the radial inner surface of the power generation unit 8, and covers both axial end surfaces of the first device 3. Moreover, the axial direction both ends of the electrode 9 may protrude from the cover material 22, and may be exposed outside as needed. The number and position of the electrodes 9 exposed to the outside are appropriately designed according to the electrical connection method described later. FIG. 5 shows a form in which both end portions in the axial direction of all the electrodes 9 protrude from the cover material 22 and are exposed to the outside.

  Moreover, the thickness of the cover material 22 is appropriately set according to the purpose and application.

  In such a power generation unit 8, the first devices 3 are preferably electrically connected in series or in parallel via the electrodes 9 and the conductive wires of the second devices 4.

  For example, when the first devices 3 are electrically connected in series, for example, as shown in FIG. 7, one end in the axial direction of the radially outermost electrode 9 and the radially innermost electrode 9 is projected from the cover member 22 and is exposed to the outside. And the conducting wire 21 of the 2nd device 4 is connected to the axial direction one side edge of each electrode 9 exposed from the cover material 22, and they are bundled. Further, as will be described in detail later, by exposing both end portions in the axial direction of each electrode 9 and connecting mesh electrodes 23 (described later) as the second device 4 to both ends in the axial direction, each first device 3. Can also be electrically connected.

  Further, for example, as shown in FIG. 8, through holes are formed in the cover layer 22 covering the radially outermost electrode 9 and the cover layer 22 covering the radially innermost electrode 9. The first device 3 is also electrically connected in series by passing the lead wire 21 of the second device 4 through the hole and connecting to the electrode 9. In such a case, both end portions in the axial direction of all the electrodes 9 can be covered with the cover layer 22.

  Further, when the first devices 3 are electrically connected in parallel, for example, as shown in FIG. 9, the radially innermost electrode 9 is the first, and the odd-numbered electrodes 9 are on one side in the axial direction. The end portion protrudes from the cover material 22 and is exposed to the outside. And the conducting wire 21 of the 2nd device 4 is connected to the axial direction one side edge of these odd-numbered electrodes 9, and they are bundled. Further, the other end portion in the axial direction of the even-numbered electrodes 9 protrudes from the cover member 22 and is exposed to the outside. And the conducting wire 21 of the 2nd device 4 is connected to the axial direction other side edge of these even-numbered electrodes 9, and they are bundled. Moreover, although mentioned later in detail, each 1st device 3 can also be electrically connected by connecting the mesh electrode 23 (after-mentioned) as the 2nd device 4 to the axial direction both ends edge of each electrode 9. FIG.

  Further, for example, as shown in FIG. 10, each first device 3 and each electrode 9 is formed with a plurality (two) of via holes penetrating therethrough in the radial direction, and only the odd-numbered electrodes 9 are formed in each via hole. The first devices 3 are also electrically connected in parallel by the passage of the conductive wire 21 that contacts the conductive wire 21 and the conductive wire 21 that contacts only the even-numbered electrode 9.

  In such a case, a gap 25 can be formed in each electrode 9 for preventing the conductive wire 21 that contacts the odd-numbered electrode 9 from contacting the even-numbered electrode 9. In such a case, both end portions in the axial direction of all the electrodes 9 can be covered with the cover layer 22.

  Such a power generation unit 8 is not particularly limited. For example, the power generation unit 8 is manufactured by preparing two semi-cylindrical first devices 3 and electrodes 9 and connecting them in a cylindrical shape. The That is, first, a semi-cylindrical laminate is formed by the plurality of semi-cylindrical first devices 3 and the semi-cylindrical electrodes 9, and then the obtained laminate has the shape described above. Thus, the power generation unit 8 is manufactured. The power generation unit 8 is also manufactured, for example, by sequentially stacking the cylindrical first device 3 and the cylindrical electrode 9 on the radially outer surface of the cylindrical electrode 9.

  The obtained power generation unit 8 (first device 3 and second device 4) is sequentially supplied to a booster 5, an AC / DC converter (AC-DC converter) 6, and a battery 7, as shown in FIG. Electrically connected.

  And when generating electric power with such an electric power generation system 1 provided with the 1st device 3 and the 2nd device 4, the 1st device 3 is first heated and / or cooled by the heat source 2 like the above, After the electric polarization is periodically performed, the electric power is extracted as a waveform that periodically varies through the second device 4. Thereafter, the extracted electric power is boosted in a state of a waveform that fluctuates periodically in a booster 5 connected to the second device 4, converted into a DC voltage in an AC / DC converter 6, and then supplied to a battery 7. Accumulate electricity.

  In such a power generation system 1 as well, the power generation efficiency can be improved as described above, so that a higher output can be obtained and space saving can be achieved.

  Further, even in such a power generation system 1, since the first device 3 is cylindrical, in particular, cylindrical, stress can be dispersed compared to the case where the first device 3 is formed in a flat plate shape. Damage can be suppressed.

  Further, in such a power generation system 1, for example, the power generation units 8 having different outer diameters and inner diameters can be arranged in a multiple manner along the radial direction, and thus the first device 3 is formed in a flat plate shape. As compared with the above, since the amount of the first device 3 per unit volume can be increased and the heating and cooling efficiency of the first device 3 can be improved, the power generation efficiency can be improved.

  Also in such a power generation system 1, since the first devices 3 and the electrodes 9 are alternately arranged along the axial direction of the first device 3, the first devices 3 are connected in series and / or in parallel. Can be electrically connected, and more efficient power generation can be achieved.

  In such a power generation system 1 as well, since the first device 3 is cylindrical, in particular, cylindrical, the wiring is simplified and made compact compared to the case where the first device 3 is formed in a flat plate shape. Therefore, space saving can be achieved.

  That is, when the first device 3 is formed in a flat plate shape, it is necessary to connect the conducting wire 21 to each first device 3 via the electrode 9. On the other hand, in the power generation system 1 in which the first device 3 is formed in a cylindrical shape, the conductive wire 21 can be provided so as to penetrate all the first devices 3 and the electrodes 9 as described above. As will be described in detail later, mesh electrodes 23 (described later) can be simultaneously connected to all the electrodes 9. Therefore, the wiring can be simplified and made compact, and space can be saved.

  Further, even in such a power generation system 1, since the cover material 22 is provided, the first device 3 and the electrode 9 can be protected.

  And such an electric power generation system 1 is preferably mounted and used as shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 11, the automobile 10 includes an internal combustion engine 11, a catalyst mounting portion 12, an exhaust pipe 13, a muffler 14, and a discharge pipe 15.

  The internal combustion engine 11 includes an engine 16 and an exhaust manifold 17.

  The engine 16 is a multi-cylinder (4-cylinder type) multi-cycle (4-cycle) engine, and an upstream end portion of a branch pipe 18 (described later) of the exhaust manifold 17 is connected to each cylinder.

  The exhaust manifold 17 is an exhaust manifold provided for converging exhaust gas exhausted from each cylinder of the engine 16, and a plurality of (four) branch pipes 18 (these are connected to each cylinder of the engine 16. Are referred to as the branch pipe 18a, the branch pipe 18b, the branch pipe 18c, and the branch pipe 18d in order from the upper side of FIG. 11), and each branch pipe on the downstream side of the branch pipe 18. And an air collecting tube 19 that integrates 18 into one.

  Each branch pipe 18 includes one box-shaped space 20 in the middle of the flow direction. The box-shaped space 20 is a substantially rectangular parallelepiped space interposed so as to communicate with the branch pipe 18, and includes the first device 3 and the second device 4 described above.

  In such an exhaust manifold 17, the upstream end portion of the branch portion 18 is connected to each cylinder of the engine 16, and the downstream end portion of the branch pipe 18 and the upstream end portion of the air collecting pipe 19 are connected to each other. It is connected. Further, the downstream end of the air collecting pipe 19 is connected to the upstream end of the catalyst mounting portion 12.

The catalyst mounting unit 12 includes, for example, a catalyst carrier and a catalyst coated on the carrier, and hydrocarbons (HC), nitrogen oxides (NO _x ) contained in exhaust gas discharged from the internal combustion engine 11, In order to purify harmful components such as carbon monoxide (CO), it is connected to the downstream end of the internal combustion engine 11 (exhaust manifold 17).

  The exhaust pipe 13 is provided to guide the exhaust gas purified in the catalyst mounting portion 12 to the muffler 14. The upstream end is connected to the catalyst mounting portion 12 and the downstream end is the muffler 14. It is connected to the.

  The muffler 14 is provided to silence noise generated in the engine 16 (in particular, an explosion process), and an upstream end thereof is connected to a downstream end of the exhaust pipe 13. The downstream end of the muffler 14 is connected to the upstream end of the discharge pipe 15.

  The exhaust pipe 15 is provided to discharge exhaust gas that has been exhausted from the engine 16 and sequentially passes through the exhaust manifold 17, the catalyst mounting portion 12, the exhaust pipe 13, and the muffler 14, and has been purified and silenced. The upstream end is connected to the downstream end of the muffler 14, and the downstream end is open to the outside air.

  The automobile 10 is equipped with the power generation system 1.

  As described above, the power generation system 1 includes the heat source 2, the first device 3, and the second device 4.

  That is, in the power generation system 1, the engine 16 of the internal combustion engine 11 is used as the heat source 2, and the first device 3 and the second device 4 are disposed in the box-shaped space 20 of the branch pipe 18. ing.

  More specifically, as shown as a partially enlarged view in FIG. 11, a plurality of the above-described power generation units 8 (see FIG. 5) are provided in the box-shaped space 20. In the partially enlarged view of FIG. 11, one power generation unit 8 is taken out and shown, and the other power generation units 8 are omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 12, the plurality of power generation units 8 are arranged such that the axial direction thereof is along the flow direction of the exhaust gas, and are fixed by a fixing member (not shown).

  Further, at both ends in the axial direction of the power generation unit 8, for example, mesh electrodes 23 made of a metal mesh or the like are arranged as the second device 4 so as to be in contact with the electrodes 9. Although not shown in detail, the electrode 9 and the mesh electrode 23 are fixed by a known method such as welding or a conductive adhesive. Further, the mesh electrode 23 is connected to a conducting wire (not shown) of the second device 4.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the power generation unit 8 is electrically connected sequentially to the booster 5, the AC / DC converter 6, and the battery 7 via a lead (not shown) (second device 4). Yes.

  In such an automobile 10, by driving the engine 16, the pistons are repeatedly moved up and down in each cylinder, and the intake process, the compression process, the explosion process, and the exhaust process are sequentially performed. Is done.

  More specifically, for example, in two cylinders, that is, a cylinder connected to the branch pipe 18a and a cylinder connected to the branch pipe 18c, the pistons are interlocked to perform the intake process, the compression process, the explosion process, and the exhaust process. , Implemented in phase. As a result, the fuel is combusted and power is output, and high-temperature exhaust gas passes through the branch pipe 18a and the branch pipe 18c in the exhaust process.

  At this time, the heat of the engine 16 is transmitted through the exhaust gas (heat medium), the internal temperatures of the branch pipe 18a and the branch pipe 18c rise in the exhaust process, and other processes (intake process, compression process, explosion) In step (5), it moves up and down with time according to the piston cycle, and the high temperature state and the low temperature state are periodically repeated.

  On the other hand, in the two cylinders, the cylinder connected to the branch pipe 18b and the cylinder connected to the branch pipe 18d at different timings from the two cylinders, the pistons are interlocked, and the intake process, the compression process, The explosion process and the exhaust process are performed in the same phase. As a result, fuel is combusted and power is output, and at a timing different from that of the branch pipe 18a and the branch pipe 18c, high-temperature exhaust gas passes through the branch pipe 18b and the branch pipe 18d in the exhaust process.

  At this time, the heat of the engine 16 is transmitted through the exhaust gas (heat medium), the internal temperatures of the branch pipe 18b and the branch pipe 18d rise in the exhaust process, and other processes (intake process, compression process, explosion) In step (5), it moves up and down with time according to the piston cycle, and the high temperature state and the low temperature state are periodically repeated.

  This periodic temperature change has the same period but a different phase from the periodic temperature changes of the branch pipe 18a and the branch pipe 18c.

  And in this electric power generation system 1, as above-mentioned, the electric power generation unit 8 is arrange | positioned inside each branch pipe 18 (inside the box-shaped space 20).

  Therefore, when the exhaust gas discharged from the engine 16 (heat source 2) is introduced into the branch pipe 18 and filled in the box-shaped space 20, the first used for the power generation unit 8 in the box-shaped space 20 is used. The first device 3 and the second device 4 are brought into contact (exposed) with exhaust gas (heat medium), and heated and / or cooled.

  That is, the first device 3 is heated and / or cooled by the temperature change with time of the engine 16 (heat source 2) and the heat medium that transfers the heat of the engine 16.

  And thereby, the 1st device 3 can be periodically made into a high temperature state or a low temperature state, and the effect (for example, piezo element, pyroelectric element, etc.) according to the element (for example, piezo element, pyroelectric element, etc.) , Piezo effect, pyroelectric effect, etc.).

  Therefore, in this power generation system 1, power can be extracted from each first device 3 through the second device 4 as a waveform (for example, alternating current, pulsating current) that periodically varies.

  Further, in this power generation system 1, since the temperature of the branch pipe 18a and the branch pipe 18c and the temperature of the branch pipe 18b and the branch pipe 18d change periodically with the same period and different phases, Can be continuously extracted as a waveform (for example, alternating current, pulsating flow, etc.) that fluctuates automatically.

  Then, after passing through each branch pipe 18, the exhaust gas is supplied to the air collection pipe 19, collected, then supplied to the catalyst mounting section 12, and purified by the catalyst provided in the catalyst mounting section 12. Thereafter, the exhaust gas is supplied to the exhaust pipe 13, silenced in the muffler 14, and then discharged to the outside air through the discharge pipe 15.

  At this time, since the exhaust gas passing through each branch pipe 18 is collected in the air collection pipes 19, the exhaust gas sequentially passes through the air collection pipe 19, the catalyst mounting portion 12, the exhaust pipe 13, the muffler 14, and the exhaust pipe 15. The temperature is smoothed.

  Therefore, the temperature of the air collection pipe 19, the catalyst mounting portion 12, the exhaust pipe 13, the muffler 14 and the exhaust pipe 15 through which such exhaust gas whose temperature has been smoothed normally does not increase or decrease with time, It is constant.

  Therefore, when the air collecting pipe 19, the catalyst mounting part 12, the exhaust pipe 13, the muffler 14 or the exhaust pipe 15 is used as the heat source 2 and the first device 3 is arranged around or inside the heat source 2, it is taken out from the first device 3. The electric power to be generated is small in voltage and constant (DC voltage).

  Therefore, in such a method, there is a problem that the obtained power cannot be boosted efficiently with a simple configuration, and the storage efficiency is poor.

  On the other hand, as described above, if the first device 3 described above is arranged in the internal space of the branch pipe 18, the first device 3 is periodically brought into a high temperature state or a low temperature state due to the temperature change of the heat source 2 with time. The first device 3 can be periodically electrically polarized by an effect (for example, piezo effect, pyroelectric effect, etc.) according to the device (for example, piezo element, pyroelectric element, etc.). .

  Therefore, in this power generation system 1, power can be extracted from each first device 3 through the second device 4 as a waveform (for example, alternating current, pulsating current) that periodically varies.

  Thereafter, in this method, for example, as indicated by a dotted line in FIG. 11, the electric power obtained as described above is periodically changed in the booster 5 connected to the second device 4 (for example, alternating current, pulse, etc.). And then the boosted power is converted into a DC voltage by the AC / DC converter 6 and then stored in the battery 7. The electric power stored in the battery 7 can be used as appropriate as the power of the automobile 10 and various electrical components mounted on the automobile 10.

  And according to such a power generation system 1, since the heat source 2 whose temperature rises and falls with time is used, a fluctuating voltage (for example, AC voltage) can be taken out, and as a result, as a constant voltage (DC voltage) Compared with the case of taking out and converting by a DC-DC converter, it is possible to store the electric power by boosting with excellent efficiency.

  Further, even in such a power generation system 1, since the first device 3 is cylindrical, in particular, cylindrical, stress can be dispersed compared to the case where the first device 3 is formed in a flat plate shape. Damage can be suppressed.

  Further, in such a power generation system 1, for example, the power generation units 8 having different outer diameters and inner diameters can be arranged in a multiple manner along the radial direction, and thus the first device 3 is formed in a flat plate shape. As compared with the above, since the amount of the first device 3 per unit volume can be increased and the heating and cooling efficiency of the first device 3 can be improved, the power generation efficiency can be improved.

  Also in such a power generation system 1, since the first devices 3 and the electrodes 9 are alternately arranged along the axial direction of the first device 3, the first devices 3 are connected in series and / or in parallel. Can be electrically connected, and more efficient power generation can be achieved.

  In such a power generation system 1 as well, since the first device 3 is cylindrical, in particular, cylindrical, the wiring is simplified and made compact compared to the case where the first device 3 is formed in a flat plate shape. Therefore, space saving can be achieved.

  That is, when the first device 3 is formed in a flat plate shape, it is necessary to connect the conducting wire 21 to each first device 3 via the electrode 9. On the other hand, in the power generation system 1 in which the first device 3 is formed in a cylindrical shape, the mesh electrode 23 can be simultaneously connected to all the electrodes 9 as described above. Therefore, the wiring can be simplified and made compact, and space can be saved.

  Further, even in such a power generation system 1, since the cover material 22 is provided, the first device 3 and the electrode 9 can be protected.

  In the above description, the first device 3 has been described as a cylindrical shape, but the shape of the first device 3 is not particularly limited as long as it is a cylindrical shape. It is designed appropriately according to the application.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Power generation system 2 Heat source 3 1st device 4 2nd device 5 Booster 6 AC / DC converter 7 Battery 8 Power generation unit 9 Electrode

Claims (4)

A heat source whose temperature rises and falls over time;
A first device in which the temperature is increased and decreased over time due to a temperature change of the heat source and is electrically polarized;
A second device for extracting power from the first device;
The power generation system, wherein the first device is cylindrical.   The power generation system according to claim 1, wherein the first device is cylindrical. The second device comprises a cylindrical electrode;
The power generation system according to claim 2, wherein the first devices and the electrodes are alternately arranged along an axial direction of the first devices. The second device comprises a cylindrical electrode;
The power generation system according to claim 2, wherein the first device and the electrode are alternately arranged along a radial direction of the first device.

Images