JP2020030964A - Flow battery for vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a flow battery for a vehicle, capable of effectively increasing a travel distance of the vehicle without an electrolyte liquid exchange, and its control method.SOLUTION: A flow battery 100 for a vehicle, comprises: a power generation cell 110; a positive electrode side circulation part 120; a negative electrode side circulation part 130; an oxidation part 140; a reduction part 150; a first distribution state adjustment part (an oxidation part conductive valve 144 and an oxidation part conductive valve 146); a second distribution state adjustment part (a reduction part conductive valve 154 and a reduction part conductive valve 156); and a control part 160. The flow battery 100 for the vehicle makes a positive electrode electrolyte 122 containing a positive electrode active material 121 distribute to a positive electrode side charging tank 142 housing an oxidant 141 while adjusting by the first distribution state adjustment part. Further, the flow battery 100 for the vehicle makes a negative electrode electrolyte 132 containing a negative electrode active material 131 distribute to a negative electrode side charging tank 152 housing a reduction agent 151 while adjusting by a second distribution state adjustment part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

  The present invention relates to a flow battery provided in a vehicle.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a flow-type battery has been known (for example, see Patent Document 1). In such a battery, the positive electrode active material is oxidized by supplying a powdery oxidizing agent to the positive electrode side electrolyte containing the positive electrode active material circulated in the positive electrode side electrolyte solution chamber. Further, the negative electrode active material is reduced by supplying a powdery reducing agent to the negative electrode side electrolyte containing the negative electrode active material circulated in the negative electrode side electrolyte solution chamber. Therefore, according to the configuration of Patent Document 1, the traveling distance of the vehicle can be extended.

JP-A-2017-117527

  In the configuration of Patent Literature 1, the oxidant that consumed energy by oxidizing the positive electrode active material is dissolved in the positive electrode electrolyte, and it is difficult to separate and discharge the oxidant. In addition, the reducing agent, which has consumed energy by reducing the negative electrode active material, is dissolved in the negative electrode electrolyte and is difficult to separate and discharge. Therefore, by repeating the supply of the oxidizing agent and the reducing agent, the concentration of the electrolytic solution increases, and when the saturated concentration is reached, further supply becomes impossible, and the traveling distance of the vehicle cannot be extended. When the supply of the oxidizing agent and the reducing agent is repeated, the electrolyte needs to be replaced.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a vehicular flow battery and a control method thereof, which do not require replacement of an electrolyte and can efficiently extend the traveling distance of the vehicle.

  In order to achieve the object, a flow battery for a vehicle according to the present invention includes a power generation cell having a positive electrode cell containing a positive electrode and a negative cell containing a negative electrode, and a positive electrode containing a positive electrode active material. A positive-electrode-side circulating section having a positive-electrode-side solution tank for storing a liquid, circulating the positive-electrode electrolyte between a positive-electrode cell and the positive-electrode-side solution tank via a positive-electrode-side circulation pipe, and a negative electrode including a negative-electrode active material A vehicle having a negative-electrode-side solution tank for storing an electrolytic solution, and a negative-electrode-side circulating section for circulating the negative-electrode electrolyte between the negative electrode cell and the positive-electrode-side solution tank via a negative-electrode-side circulation pipe; It is a flow battery. Here, the flow battery for a vehicle of the present invention has an oxidizing member accommodating portion for accommodating an oxidizing member, an oxidizing portion for flowing the positive electrode electrolyte to the oxidizing member accommodating portion, and a reducing member accommodating portion for accommodating the reducing member. A reduction unit that circulates the negative electrode electrolyte to the reduction member storage unit, a first flow state adjustment unit that adjusts a flow state of the positive electrode electrolyte to the oxidation member storage unit, and a reduction member storage of the negative electrode electrolyte A second distribution state adjustment unit that adjusts a distribution state to the unit; and a control unit that controls the first distribution state adjustment unit and the second distribution state adjustment unit.

  Advantageous Effects of Invention According to the present invention, it is possible to realize a flow battery for a vehicle and a control method thereof that do not require an electrolyte exchange and can efficiently extend the traveling distance of the vehicle.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a vehicle flow battery according to a first embodiment provided in a vehicle. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a vehicle flow battery according to a first embodiment. The schematic diagram which shows the flow battery for vehicles of 2nd Embodiment. The schematic diagram which shows the flow battery for vehicles of 3rd Embodiment.

"First Embodiment"
“Configuration of Flow Battery 100 for Vehicle”
Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the configuration of vehicle flow battery 100 provided in vehicle 10 (power generation cell 110, positive-side circulation unit 120, negative-side circulation unit 130, oxidizing unit 140, reducing unit 150, and control unit) 160) and the configuration of the electric unit 20 provided in the vehicle 10 and connected to the vehicle flow battery 100 will be described.

"Configuration of power generation cell 110"
The power generation cell 110 supplies power to a driving device 25 provided in the vehicle 10. The power generation cell 110 has a positive electrode 111, a positive electrode cell 112, a negative electrode 113, a negative electrode cell 114, and a diaphragm 115, as shown in FIG. 1 or FIG.

  The positive electrode 111 is made of, for example, carbon fiber and is formed in a plate shape. The positive electrode 112 is accommodated in the positive electrode cell 112, and a positive electrode electrolyte 122 containing a positive electrode active material 121 is circulated. The negative electrode 113 is made of, for example, carbon fiber and is formed in a plate shape. A negative electrode 113 is accommodated in the negative electrode cell 114, and a negative electrode electrolyte 132 containing a negative electrode active material 131 is circulated. The diaphragm 115 is a so-called separator, and separates between the positive electrode cell 112 and the negative electrode cell 114. The diaphragm 115 prevents the cathode electrolyte 122 containing the cathode active material 121 and the anode electrolyte 132 containing the anode active material 131 from being mixed. The diaphragm 115 allows ions to pass between the cathode electrolyte 122 and the anode electrolyte 132. The diaphragm 115 is made of, for example, an ion exchange membrane. The power generation cell 110 is provided, for example, in front of the vehicle 10.

“Configuration of Positive-Side Circulating Unit 120”
The positive-electrode-side circulation section 120 has a positive-electrode-side solution tank 123 for storing a positive-electrolyte solution 122 containing a positive-electrode active material 121, and has a positive-electrode-side circulation pipe (a positive-electrode-circulation-section introduction pipe 124 and a positive-electrode-circulation-section discharge pipe 125) The positive electrode electrolyte 122 is circulated between the positive electrode cell 112 and the positive electrode side solution tank 123 via the. In other words, the positive electrode circulating unit 120 circulates the positive electrode electrolyte 122 containing the oxidized positive electrode active material 121 to the positive electrode cell 112 of the power generation cell 110. As shown in FIG. 2, the positive electrode side circulation part 120 includes a positive electrode active material 121, a positive electrode electrolyte solution 122, a positive electrode side solution tank 123, a positive electrode side circulation part introduction pipe 124, and a positive electrode side circulation part discharge pipe 125. And a positive-electrode-side circulation pump 126.

The positive electrode active material 121 is made of, for example, iron ions. As shown in FIG. 2, at the time of charging, the divalent positive electrode active material 121a is oxidized to the trivalent positive electrode active material 121b by electrons flowing out of the positive electrode 111. Note that a variety of materials can be used for the positive electrode active material 121, and a positive electrode active material which has a higher potential than the negative electrode active material can be used. In the positive electrode electrolyte 122, for example, the solvent is propylene carbonate, and the electrolyte is lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF ₆ ). The positive electrode solution tank 123 is a container that stores the positive electrode electrolyte 122 containing the positive electrode active material 121.

  The positive-electrode-side circulating-port introduction pipe 124 is a pipe connected between the positive-electrode-side solution tank 123 and the positive-electrode cell 112. The cathode electrolyte solution 122 containing the oxidized cathode active material 121 is introduced (supplied) from the cathode side solution tank 123 to the cathode cell 112 using the cathode side circulation part introduction pipe 124. The positive-electrode-side circulation part outlet pipe 125 is a pipe connected between the positive-electrode cell 112 and the positive-electrode-side solution tank 123. The cathode electrolyte 122 containing the reduced cathode active material 121 in a reduced state is discharged (discharged) from the cathode cell 112 to the cathode solution tank 123 by using the cathode circulation pipe 125. The positive electrode side circulation pump 126 is, for example, a liquid sending pump connected to the positive electrode side circulation part outlet pipe 125. The positive electrode electrolyte 122 containing the positive electrode active material 121 is circulated between the positive electrode solution tank 123 and the positive electrode cell 112 using the positive electrode side circulation pump 126.

“Configuration of Negative-Side Circulating Unit 130”
The negative-side circulation section 130 has a negative-side solution tank 133 for storing a negative-electrode electrolyte 132 containing a negative-electrode active material 131, and has a negative-side circulation pipe (a negative-side circulation section introduction pipe 134 and a negative-side circulation section discharge pipe 135). The negative electrode electrolyte 132 is circulated between the negative electrode cell 114 and the positive electrode side solution tank 123 via the. In other words, the negative electrode side circulating unit 130 circulates the negative electrode electrolyte 132 containing the reduced negative electrode active material 131 in the negative electrode cell 114 of the power generation cell 110. As shown in FIG. 2, the negative electrode side circulation part 130 includes a negative electrode active material 131, a negative electrode electrolyte 132, a negative electrode side solution tank 133, a negative electrode side circulation part introduction pipe 134, and a negative electrode side circulation part discharge pipe 135. , A negative-side circulation pump 136.

The negative electrode active material 131 is made of, for example, cobalt ions. As shown in FIG. 2, at the time of charging, the trivalent negative electrode active material 131a is reduced to the divalent negative electrode active material 131b by the flow of electrons from the negative electrode 113. Note that various materials can be used for the negative electrode active material 131, and a material for a negative electrode active material having a lower potential than the positive electrode active material can also be used. In the negative electrode electrolyte 132, for example, the solvent is propylene carbonate, and the electrolyte is lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF ₆ ). The negative electrode solution tank 133 is a container that stores the negative electrode electrolyte 132 containing the negative electrode active material 131.

  The negative electrode side circulation part introduction pipe 134 is a pipe connected between the negative electrode side solution tank 133 and the negative electrode cell 114. The negative electrode electrolyte solution 132 containing the reduced negative electrode active material 131 is introduced (supplied) from the negative electrode side solution tank 133 to the negative electrode cell 114 using the negative electrode side circulation part introduction pipe 134. The negative-electrode-side circulation portion outlet pipe 135 is a pipe connected between the negative-electrode cell 114 and the negative-electrode-side solution tank 133. The negative electrode electrolyte 132 containing the oxidized negative electrode active material 131 is discharged (discharged) from the negative electrode cell 114 to the negative electrode side solution tank 133 using the negative electrode side circulation part discharge pipe 135. The negative electrode side circulation pump 136 is, for example, a liquid sending pump connected to the negative electrode side circulation part outlet pipe 135. The negative electrode electrolyte 132 containing the negative electrode active material 131 is circulated between the negative electrode side solution tank 133 and the negative electrode cell 114 using the negative electrode side circulation pump 136.

“Configuration of the oxidizing unit 140”
The oxidizing section 140 has an oxidizing member housing section (positive charge tank 142) for storing an oxidizing member (oxidant 141), and allows the positive electrode electrolyte 122 to flow through the positive charge tank 142. In other words, the oxidizing unit 140 oxidizes the positive electrode active material 121 contained in the positive electrode electrolyte 122. As shown in FIG. 2, the oxidizing unit 140 includes an oxidizing agent 141, a positive-electrode-side charge tank 142 (oxidizing agent tank), an oxidizing unit introduction pipe 143, an oxidizing unit introduction valve 144, and an oxidizing unit outlet tube 145. It has an oxidizing section outlet valve 146 and a positive-side oxidation pump 147.

The oxidizing agent 141 causes an oxidation reaction of the positive electrode active material 121. As the oxidizing agent 141, for example, FePO ₄ , Mn ₂ O _4, or Ni _0.5 Mn _1.5 O ₄ is used. When the oxidizing agent 141 is filled in the powdered state into the positive electrode side charging tank 142, the connecting portion between the positive electrode side charging tank 142 and the oxidizing part introduction pipe 143, and the positive electrode side charging tank 142 and the oxidizing part outlet pipe A configuration in which a filter is provided at a connection portion with the 145 can be provided. As the filter, a filter having a configuration in which the positive electrode electrolyte 122 containing the positive electrode active material 121 is passed without passing through the oxidizing agent 141 is used.

  The oxidizing agent 141 is not limited to the above configuration, and may be, for example, a configuration solidified in a columnar shape. The solidified oxidizing agent 141 has holes through which the positive electrode electrolyte 122 containing the positive electrode active material 121 can pass. In such a configuration, the solidified oxidant 141 does not elute when the positive electrode electrolyte solution 122 containing the positive electrode active material 121 passes, and it is sufficient that most of the shape is maintained.

  The oxidizing agent 141 is configured to be exchangeable (refillable) with respect to the positive electrode side charging tank 142. That is, the oxidizing agent 141 is configured to be replaceable with respect to the vehicle 10 provided with the positive electrode side charging tank 142. In the case where the oxidizing agent 141 is solidified, a plurality of oxidizing agents 141 can be provided for the positive electrode side charging tank 142. In this case, a plurality of solidified oxidizing agents 141 can be selectively replenished to the positive electrode side charging tank 142 (an arbitrary solidified oxidizing agent 141 can be selected and detached). it can.

  The positive electrode side charging tank 142 is a container that stores the oxidizing agent 141. The positive electrode side charging tank 142 is connected in parallel to the positive electrode side solution tank 123. The positive-electrode-side charge tank 142 is composed of, for example, one and is provided in a trunk portion behind the vehicle 10 or the like. The positive-electrode-side charge tank 142 is configured to be replaceable (detachable) with respect to the vehicle 10. The positive electrode side charge tank 142 can be provided, for example, in a horizontal direction with the negative electrode side charge tank 152. Further, for example, when the replacement frequency is higher than that of the negative-side charge tank 152, the positive-side charge tank 142 may be provided vertically alongside the negative-side charge tank 152 so as to be located above the negative-side charge tank 152. it can. The positive-electrode-side charge tank 142 may be composed of a plurality. In this case, the vehicle 10 can be selectively replenished by connecting a plurality of positive-electrode-side charge tanks 142 in parallel or in series with the piping of the oxidizing unit 140 (for example, any positive electrode of the plurality The side charge tank 142 can be detached).

  The oxidation part introduction pipe 143 is a pipe connected between the positive electrode side charge tank 142 and the positive electrode side solution tank 123. The positive electrode electrolyte 122 containing the positive electrode active material 121 is flowed (supplied) from the positive electrode side charge tank 142 to the positive electrode side solution tank 123 using the oxidizing part introduction pipe 143. The oxidizing section introduction valve 144 is, for example, an electromagnetic valve for a fluid, and is connected to the oxidizing section introduction pipe 143. The oxidizing unit introduction valve 144 controls the flow (supply) of the positive electrode electrolyte 122 containing the positive electrode active material 121 from the positive electrode side charge tank 142 to the positive electrode side solution tank 123. The oxidizing unit introduction valve 144 is included, together with the oxidizing unit outlet valve 146, in a first circulation state adjusting unit that adjusts a circulation state of the positive electrode electrolyte 122 to the positive electrode side charging tank 142. The oxidizing unit introduction valve 144 corresponds to a positive electrode side opening / closing valve provided on the upstream side of the positive electrode side charging tank 142.

  The oxidizing part outlet pipe 145 is a pipe connected between the positive electrode solution tank 123 and the positive electrode charge tank 142. The positive electrode electrolyte 122 containing the positive electrode active material 121 is caused to flow (discharge) from the positive electrode side solution tank 123 to the positive electrode side charge tank 142 using the oxidizing part outlet pipe 145. The oxidizing unit outlet valve 146 is, for example, an electromagnetic valve for a fluid, and is connected to the oxidizing unit outlet tube 145. The flow (supply) of the positive electrode electrolyte 122 containing the positive electrode active material 121 from the positive electrode side solution tank 123 to the positive electrode side charge tank 142 is controlled by using the oxidizing unit outlet valve 146. The oxidizing unit outlet valve 146 corresponds to a positive-side opening / closing valve provided on the downstream side of the positive-side charging tank 142. The positive-electrode-side oxidation pump 147 is, for example, a pump for sending a liquid, and is connected to the oxidizing unit outlet pipe 145. Using the positive electrode side oxidation pump 147, the positive electrode electrolyte 122 containing the positive electrode active material 121 flows between the positive electrode side charge tank 142 and the positive electrode side solution tank 123.

"Configuration of the reduction unit 150"
The reduction section 150 has a reduction member storage section (negative electrode side charging tank 152) that stores a reducing member (reducing agent 151), and allows the negative electrode electrolyte 132 to flow to the negative electrode side charging tank 152. In other words, the reduction unit 150 reduces the negative electrode active material 131 included in the negative electrode electrolyte 132. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the reducing unit 150 includes a reducing agent 151, a negative-electrode-side charge tank 152, a reducing unit introduction pipe 153, a reduction unit introduction valve 154, a reduction unit outlet pipe 155, and a reduction unit outlet valve 156. And a negative-side reduction pump 157.

The reducing agent 151 causes the negative electrode active material 131 to undergo a reduction reaction. The reducing agent 151, for _{example, Li 7 Ti 5 O 12,} Li-Si alloy or Li metal is used. When the reducing agent 151 is charged into the negative electrode side charging tank 152 in a powdery state, the connecting portion between the negative electrode side charging tank 152 and the reducing part introduction pipe 153 and the negative side charging tank 152 and the reducing part outlet pipe A configuration in which a filter is provided at a connection portion with the 155 can be adopted. As the filter, a filter having a configuration in which the negative electrode electrolyte 132 containing the negative electrode active material 131 is passed without passing through the reducing agent 151 is used.

  The reducing agent 151 is not limited to the above-described configuration, and may be, for example, a configuration solidified in a columnar shape. The solidified reducing agent 151 has holes through which the negative electrode electrolyte 132 containing the negative electrode active material 131 can pass. In such a configuration, the solidified reducing agent 151 does not elute when the negative electrode electrolyte 132 containing the negative electrode active material 131 passes, and it is sufficient that most of its shape is maintained.

  The reducing agent 151 is configured to be exchangeable (refillable) with respect to the negative electrode side charging tank 152. That is, the reducing agent 151 is configured to be exchangeable with respect to the vehicle 10 provided with the negative electrode side charging tank 152. When the reducing agent 151 is formed by solidification, a plurality of reducing agents 151 can be provided for the negative electrode side charging tank 152. In this case, the plurality of solidified reducing agents 151 can be selectively replenished to the negative electrode side charging tank 152 (an arbitrary solidified reducing agent 151 can be selected and detached). it can.

  The negative electrode side charging tank 152 is a container that stores the reducing agent 151. The negative electrode side charging tank 152 is connected in parallel to the negative electrode side solution tank 133. The negative-electrode-side charge tank 152 is formed of, for example, one, and is provided in a trunk portion behind the vehicle 10 or the like. The negative electrode side charging tank 152 is configured to be replaceable (detachable) with respect to the vehicle 10. The negative electrode-side charge tank 152 may be composed of a plurality. In this case, the vehicle 10 can be selectively refilled by connecting a plurality of negative-electrode-side charge tanks 152 in parallel or in series to the pipe of the reduction unit 150, for example (arbitrary negative electrode among the plurality The side charge tank 152 can be detached).

  The reduction unit introduction pipe 153 is a pipe connected between the negative electrode side charge tank 152 and the negative electrode side solution tank 133. The negative electrode electrolyte 132 containing the negative electrode active material 131 is circulated (supplied) from the negative electrode side charging tank 152 to the negative electrode side solution tank 133 by using the reducing part introduction pipe 153. The reduction section introduction valve 154 is, for example, an electromagnetic valve for fluid, and is connected to the reduction section introduction pipe 153. The flow (supply) of the negative electrode electrolyte 132 containing the negative electrode active material 131 from the negative electrode side charge tank 152 to the negative electrode side solution tank 133 is controlled using the reduction unit introduction valve 154. The reduction unit introduction valve 154 and the reduction unit outlet valve 156 constitute a second circulation state adjustment unit that adjusts a circulation state of the negative electrode electrolyte 132 to the negative electrode side charging tank 152. The reduction section introduction valve 154 corresponds to a negative electrode side opening / closing valve provided on the upstream side of the negative electrode side charging tank 152.

  The reduction part outlet pipe 155 is a pipe connected between the negative electrode solution tank 133 and the negative electrode charge tank 152. The negative electrode electrolyte 132 containing the negative electrode active material 131 flows (discharges) from the negative electrode side solution tank 133 to the negative electrode side charge tank 152 using the reducing part outlet pipe 155. The reduction unit outlet valve 156 is, for example, an electromagnetic valve for a fluid, and is connected to the reduction unit outlet pipe 155. The flow (supply) of the negative electrode electrolytic solution 132 containing the negative electrode active material 131 from the negative electrode side solution tank 133 to the negative electrode side charge tank 152 is controlled by using the reduction part outlet valve 156. The reduction portion outlet valve 156 corresponds to a negative electrode side opening / closing valve provided on the downstream side of the negative electrode side charging tank 152. The negative-electrode-side reduction pump 157 is, for example, a pump for feeding a liquid, and is connected to the reduction section outlet pipe 155. The negative electrode electrolyte 132 containing the negative electrode active material 131 is caused to flow between the negative electrode side charge tank 152 and the negative electrode side solution tank 133 using the negative electrode side reduction pump 157.

“Configuration of Control Unit 160”
The control section 160 controls the first flow state adjusting section (oxidizing section introduction valve 144 and oxidizing section deriving valve 146) and the second flowing state adjusting section (reducing section introducing valve 154 and reducing section deriving valve 156). As shown in FIG. 1 and the like, the control unit 160 includes an acceleration sensor 161a (acceleration state measuring means) for measuring the acceleration state of the vehicle 10, and a charge sensor 161b (charge rate measurement) for measuring the positive and negative charge rates. ).

  The controller 161 controls the oxidizing unit introduction valve 144, the oxidizing unit derivation valve 146, the reduction unit introduction valve 154, the reduction unit derivation valve 156, and the like based on information obtained from the acceleration sensor 161a, the charging sensor 161b, and the like. The controller 161 has a ROM (Read Only Memory), a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and a RAM (Random Access Memory) for the above control. The ROM stores a control program for the vehicle flow battery 100. The CPU executes a control program. The RAM temporarily stores various data while the CPU executes the control program.

"Configuration of Electric Unit 20"
The electric unit 20 is provided on the vehicle 10 and is connected to the vehicle flow battery 100. The electric unit 20 includes a power supply unit 21, an inverter 22, a positive terminal 23, a negative terminal 24, and a driving device 25. The power supply unit 21 is, for example, an engine of the vehicle 10 and is used as a generator. The power supply unit 21 may be a power plant that transmits power to a facility where the vehicle is parked, or a power generator that is provided in a facility where the vehicle 10 is parked and generates power. Inverter 22 converts the power supplied from power supply unit 21 to vehicle flow battery 100 from AC to DC. The inverter 22 converts the power supplied from the vehicle flow battery 100 to the driving device 25 from DC to AC. Positive electrode terminal 23 electrically connects inverter 22 and positive electrode 111 of power generation cell 110. Negative electrode terminal 24 electrically connects inverter 22 and negative electrode 113 of power generation cell 110. The drive device 25 is, for example, a vehicle-mounted motor.

"Control method of vehicle flow battery 100"
"Basic control method"
With reference to FIG. 2 and Table 1, a basic control method of the vehicle flow battery 100 will be described.

  The basic control method of the vehicle flow battery 100 will be described focusing on an increase in the charging rate of the power generation cell 110. In particular, an increase in the charging rate on the positive electrode side of the power generation cell 110 will be described. Since the control on the negative electrode side is the same as the control on the positive electrode side, the description is omitted.

Table 1 shows the volumes V ₁ [m ³ ], V ₂ [m ³ ], and V ₃ [m ³ ] for the positive electrode cell 112, the positive electrode side solution tank 123, and the positive electrode side charge tank 142. Table 1 shows that the concentrations M ₁ [mol / m ³ ] and M ₂ [mol / m] of the positive electrode electrolyte 122 containing the positive electrode active material 121 with respect to the positive electrode cell 112, the positive electrode side solution tank 123, and the positive electrode side charge tank 142. ³ ] and M ₃ [mol / m ³ ]. Table 1 shows the flow rate J ₁ [m ³ / s of the positive electrode electrolyte 122 containing the positive electrode active material 121 from the positive electrode solution tank 123 to the positive electrode cell 112 and from the positive electrode charge tank 142 to the positive electrode solution tank 123. ] And J ₂ [m ³ / s].

Flow rate _J 1 positive electrode electrolyte 122 containing a positive electrode active material 121 that is fed back to the positive electrode cell 112 ^[m 3 / s], the flow rate _J 2 [m positive electrode electrolyte 122 containing a positive electrode active material 121 for circulating the oxidizing agent 141 ³ / s] and the relationship is expressed by Expression 2 based on Expression 1.

Here, by increasing the flow rate J ₂ [m ³ / s] with respect to the flow rate J ₁ [m ³ / s], the charge rate on the positive electrode side is controlled to be increased.

"Specific control method 1"
With reference to FIG. 2, description will be given of a preferred control method 1 in a case where the charging rate of the vehicular flow battery 100 is gradually reduced by running the vehicle 10 over a long distance.

  Such control is performed, for example, when there is no facility to charge the vehicle 10 while traveling, when there is a facility to charge the vehicle 10 and it is congested, and when it is desired to continue traveling of the vehicle 10 over a long distance. Is assumed. When the vehicle 10 is continuously driven over a long distance, for example, in the case of automatic driving, it is not necessary to consider the influence of driving fatigue.

  The charging rate on the positive electrode side is calculated as follows. That is, the charge rate of the positive electrode is determined by the voltage of the positive electrode electrolyte 122 containing the positive electrode active material 121 stored in the positive electrode solution tank 123 or the positive electrode electrolyte containing the positive electrode active material 121 flowing through the positive electrode circulation part outlet pipe 125. The voltage at 122 is calculated from the charge sensor 161b at regular intervals.

  When the charge rate on the positive electrode side becomes less than a predetermined value, the positive electrode electrolyte 122 containing the positive electrode active material 121 stored in the positive electrode solution tank 123 is mixed with the oxidant 141 stored in the positive electrode charge tank 142. On the other hand, the positive-side oxidation pump 147 is operated to feed the liquid. The predetermined value regarding the charging rate on the positive electrode side is set in advance, for example, to 30%, but may be changed as needed by the driver of the vehicle 10 or the like.

  When the charge rate on the positive electrode side rises to a set value (for example, 50%), the operation of the positive electrode oxidation pump 147 is stopped, and the positive electrode including the positive electrode active material 121 from the positive electrode solution tank 123 to the positive electrode charge tank 142 is stopped. The circulation of the active material 121 is stopped.

  The charge rate on the negative electrode side is calculated as follows. That is, the charge rate on the negative electrode side is determined by the voltage of the negative electrode electrolyte 132 containing the negative electrode active material 131 accommodated in the negative electrode solution tank 133 or the negative electrode electrolyte containing the negative electrode active material 131 flowing through the negative electrode side circulation part outlet pipe 135. The voltage of 132 is calculated from the charge sensor 161b at regular intervals.

  When the charge rate on the negative electrode side becomes less than a predetermined value, the negative electrode electrolyte 132 containing the negative electrode active material 131 stored in the negative electrode solution tank 133 is transferred to the reducing agent 151 stored in the negative electrode charge tank 152. On the other hand, the negative-side reduction pump 157 is operated to feed the liquid. The predetermined value relating to the charge rate on the negative electrode side is set in advance, for example, to 30%, but may be changed as needed by the driver of the vehicle 10 or the like. The predetermined value regarding the charging rate on the negative electrode side may be different from the predetermined value regarding the charging rate on the positive electrode side.

  When the charge rate on the negative electrode side rises to a set value (for example, 50%), the operation of the negative electrode side reduction pump 157 is stopped, and the negative electrode including the negative electrode active material 131 is transferred from the negative electrode solution tank 133 to the negative electrode charge tank 152. The circulation of the active material 131 is stopped.

"Specific control method 2"
With reference to FIG. 2, a description will be given of a preferred control method 2 when the charging rate of the vehicular flow battery 100 is suddenly reduced due to the occurrence of a high load on the vehicle 10.

  Such control is performed, for example, when the vehicle 10 travels on a slope having a large gradient, when the vehicle 10 travels by loading or towing a heavy object, when traveling at high speed, and when the air conditioner provided in the vehicle 10 (For example, a case in which the vehicle is parked under the scorching sun while traveling while rapidly cooling with air).

  When the charge rate on the positive electrode side is reduced beyond a predetermined rate per unit time, the positive electrode electrolyte 122 containing the positive electrode active material 121 stored in the positive electrode solution tank 123 is stored in the positive electrode charge tank 142. The positive-electrode-side oxidation pump 147 is operated to feed the oxidizing agent 141. The predetermined ratio is set to a value higher than the reduction rate based on the reduction rate of the charging rate per unit time in the positive electrode solution tank 123 when the vehicle 10 runs under normal conditions. In other words, this control is executed when the charging rate on the positive electrode side suddenly decreases at a higher rate, for example, 5 times or more than when the vehicle 10 runs under normal conditions. The configuration related to the calculation of the charging rate on the positive electrode side and the configuration when the charging rate on the positive electrode side rises to a set value (for example, 50%) are the same as in the control method 1.

  When the charge rate on the negative electrode side decreases over a predetermined rate per unit time, the negative electrode electrolyte 132 containing the negative electrode active material 131 stored in the negative electrode solution tank 133 is stored in the negative electrode charge tank 152. The negative electrode-side reduction pump 157 is operated to feed the reduced agent 151. The predetermined ratio is set to a value higher than the reduction rate based on the reduction rate of the charging rate per unit time in the negative electrode-side solution tank 133 when the vehicle 10 travels under normal conditions. In other words, this control is executed when the charging rate on the negative electrode side suddenly decreases at a higher rate, for example, five times or more than when the vehicle 10 runs under normal conditions. The configuration relating to the calculation of the charging rate on the negative electrode side, and the configuration when the charging rate on the negative electrode side rises to a set value (for example, 50%) are the same as in the control method 1.

"Specific control method 3"
With reference to FIG. 2, description will be given of a preferred control method 3 when the charging rate of the vehicle flow battery 100 needs to be maintained at a predetermined value (for example, 30%) or more without depending on the traveling state of the vehicle 10. I do.

  Such control assumes, for example, a case where it is difficult to predict the running of the vehicle 10 like a taxi, and a case where it is necessary to maintain a certain allowance for running in an emergency vehicle such as a fire engine.

  The positive electrode electrolyte 122 containing the positive electrode active material 121 contained in the positive electrode solution tank 123 is reacted with the oxidant 141 contained in the positive electrode charge tank 142 such that the charge rate on the positive electrode side becomes a predetermined value or more. Then, the pump is operated while changing the output of the positive-electrode-side oxidation pump 147 to feed the liquid. By such control, the flow rate of the positive electrode electrolyte 122 with respect to the oxidizing agent 141 is adjusted (increased or decreased). Adjustment of the flow rate of the positive electrode electrolyte solution 122 with respect to the oxidizing agent 141 is not limited to the control of varying the output of the positive electrode side oxidation pump 147, but may be performed by making the output of the positive electrode side oxidation pump 147 constant. Alternatively, the control may be performed by controlling the opening degree of the oxidizing unit outlet valve 146 to be variable. The configuration relating to the calculation of the charging rate on the positive electrode side is the same as that of the control method 1.

  The negative electrode electrolyte 132 containing the negative electrode active material 131 contained in the negative electrode solution tank 133 is supplied to the reducing agent 151 contained in the negative electrode charge tank 152 such that the charge rate on the negative electrode side becomes a predetermined value or more. Then, the pump is operated while changing the output of the negative-side reduction pump 157 to feed the liquid. By such control, the flow rate of the negative electrode electrolyte 132 with respect to the reducing agent 151 is adjusted (increased or decreased). Adjustment of the flow rate of the negative electrode electrolytic solution 132 with respect to the reducing agent 151 is not limited to control for varying the output of the negative electrode-side reduction pump 157, but may be performed by keeping the output of the negative electrode-side reduction pump 157 constant and reducing unit introduction valve 154. Alternatively, the control may be performed by controlling the opening degree of the reducing unit outlet valve 156 to be variable. The configuration related to the calculation of the charging rate on the negative electrode side is the same as that of the control method 1.

“Effects of Vehicle Flow Battery 100 and Control Method Thereof”
The effects of the vehicle flow battery 100 and its control method will be described.

  According to the first embodiment, the oxidizing agent 141 is accommodated while the positive electrode electrolyte 122 containing the positive electrode active material 121 is adjusted by the first flow state adjusting unit (the oxidizing unit introduction valve 144 and the oxidizing unit outlet valve 146). It is circulated to the positive electrode side charging tank 142. In addition, the negative electrode electrolyte 132 containing the negative electrode active material 131 is adjusted by the second flow condition adjusting unit (reducing unit introduction valve 154 and reducing unit outlet valve 156), and is supplied to the negative electrode side charging tank 152 containing the reducing agent 151. Distribute.

  According to such a configuration and control, when the positive electrode active material 121 reduced in the positive electrode cell 112 needs to be oxidized, the first flow state adjusting unit (the oxidizing unit introduction valve 144 and the oxidizing unit discharge valve 146) is adjusted. Then, the positive electrode active material 121 can be oxidized by the oxidant 141 by flowing to the positive electrode side charging tank 142 containing the oxidant 141. Further, when it is necessary to reduce the oxidized negative electrode active material 131 in the negative electrode cell 114, the second flow condition adjusting unit (the reducing unit introduction valve 154 and the reducing unit outlet valve 156) is adjusted to accommodate the reducing agent 151. The negative electrode active material 131 can be reduced by flowing through the negative electrode side charging tank 152 and the reducing agent 151. Further, when there is no need to oxidize the reduced positive electrode active material 121 in the positive electrode cell 112, the first flow state adjusting unit (the oxidizing unit introduction valve 144 and the oxidizing unit outlet valve 146) is adjusted to accommodate the oxidizing agent 141. By reducing or stopping the flow to the positive electrode side charging tank 142, it is possible to prevent wasteful consumption of energy of the oxidant 141. When there is no need to reduce the oxidized negative electrode active material 131 in the negative electrode cell 114, the second flow condition adjusting unit (the reducing unit introduction valve 154 and the reducing unit outlet valve 156) is adjusted to accommodate the reducing agent 151. By reducing or stopping the flow to the negative electrode side charging tank 152, it is possible to prevent unnecessary consumption of energy of the reducing agent 151. Here, the oxidizing agent 141 whose energy has been consumed by oxidizing the positive electrode active material 121 remains in a solid state without being eluted, and does not need to be recovered from the positive electrode electrolyte solution 122 containing the positive electrode active material 121. Further, the reducing agent 151 whose energy has been consumed by reducing the negative electrode active material 131 remains in a solid state without being eluted, and does not need to be recovered from the negative electrode electrolyte 132 containing the negative electrode active material 131. Accordingly, the frequency of replacement of the positive-side charge tank 142 and the negative-side charge tank 152 can be reduced. As a result, the vehicle flow battery 100 and its control method can efficiently extend the traveling distance of the vehicle 10 without replacing the electrolyte, and can reduce the frequency of replacement of the charge tank.

  According to the first embodiment, the positive electrode side charge tank 142 is connected in parallel to the positive electrode side solution tank 123. Similarly, the negative electrode side charging tank 152 is connected in parallel with the negative electrode side solution tank 133.

  According to such a configuration, the cathode electrolyte 122 containing the cathode active material 121 is charged into the cathode side containing the oxidizing agent 141 while being extremely simple and satisfying certain responsiveness and accuracy. It can be distributed to the tank 142. Further, the negative electrode electrolyte 132 containing the negative electrode active material 131 can be circulated to the negative electrode side charging tank 152 containing the reducing agent 151.

  According to the first embodiment, the positive-side charge tank 142 and the negative-side charge tank 152 are configured to be replaceable or refillable with respect to the vehicle 10, respectively.

  According to such a configuration, the positive-side charge tank 142 containing the oxidant 141 whose energy has been consumed by a certain amount or more and the negative-side charge tank 152 containing the reducing agent 151 whose energy has been consumed by a certain amount are removed from the vehicle 10. Extending the mileage of the vehicle 10 by simply attaching the positive-side charge tank 142 containing the oxidizing agent 141 having sufficient energy and the negative-side charge tank 152 containing the reducing agent 151 having sufficient energy to the vehicle 10 Can be. That is, in a facility such as a gas station, if the positive-side charge tank 142 and the negative-side charge tank 152 are replaced while the vehicle 10 is stopped for a short time, the vehicle flow battery 100 can be rapidly charged. It can be treated like a secondary battery. Furthermore, a configuration may be adopted in which only the positive-side charge tank 142 containing the oxidizing agent 141 whose energy has been consumed by a certain amount or more or the negative-side charge tank 152 containing the reducing agent 151 whose energy has been consumed a certain amount or more is selectively replaced. In the case of such a configuration, the replacement of the positive-side charge tank 142 or the negative-side charge tank 152 can be performed in a shorter period of time without waste.

  According to the first embodiment, the control unit 160 determines whether the acceleration measured by the acceleration sensor 161a is equal to or more than a predetermined value or the charging rate of the positive electrode measured by the charging sensor 161b is less than the predetermined value. Next, the first circulation state adjusting unit (the oxidizing unit introduction valve 144 and the oxidizing unit outlet valve 146) controls the positive electrode electrolyte 122 to flow to the positive electrode side charging tank 142. The control on the negative electrode side by the control unit 160 is the same as the control on the positive electrode side described above.

  According to such a control method (corresponding to the above-described specific control method 1), for example, when the vehicle 10 travels over a long distance, the charging rate of the vehicle flow battery 100 is increased to a predetermined value or more. Can be maintained. Note that the charging rate decreases as the acceleration increases. As a result, when the cruising distance of the vehicle 10 is extended, the vehicle 10 can be stably driven. Further, for example, when the vehicle 10 can be charged at night (daytime) while traveling within a certain distance during the daytime (nighttime), the energy of the oxidizing agent 141 and the reducing agent 151 is consumed. Can be suppressed. In addition, the voltage value of the vehicle flow battery 100 can be controlled within a certain range, so that the driving device 25 can be driven stably.

  According to the first embodiment, when the charging rate on the positive electrode side measured by the charging sensor 161b decreases by more than a predetermined rate per unit time, the control unit 160 controls the first circulation state adjusting unit (oxidizing unit). The introduction valve 144 and the oxidizing section outlet valve 146) control the cathode electrolyte 122 to flow to the cathode side charging tank 142. The control on the negative electrode side by the control unit 160 is the same as the control on the positive electrode side described above.

  According to such a control method (corresponding to the specific control method 2 described above), for example, when the vehicle 10 travels on a slope having a large gradient, the charge rate of the flow battery 100 for a vehicle rapidly decreases. Can be suppressed. As a result, even if a heavy load is applied to the vehicle 10, the vehicle 10 can be stably driven. Further, for example, when the vehicle 10 travels in an environment with a low load such as a flat ground, it is possible to suppress the energy consumption of the oxidizing agent 141 and the reducing agent 151 from being consumed. In addition, the voltage value of the vehicle flow battery 100 can be controlled within a certain range, so that the driving device 25 can be driven stably.

  According to the first embodiment, the control unit 160 controls the first circulation state adjusting unit (the oxidizing unit introduction valve 144 and the oxidizing unit deriving unit) until the charging rate on the positive electrode side measured by the charging sensor 161b becomes equal to or more than a predetermined value. The flow rate of the positive electrode electrolyte solution 122 to the positive electrode side charging tank 142 is adjusted by the valve 146). The control on the negative electrode side by the control unit 160 is the same as the control on the positive electrode side described above.

  According to such a control method (corresponding to the above-mentioned specific control method 3), the voltage value of the vehicle flow battery 100 can be controlled within a certain range. As a result, it is possible to stably drive the driving device 25 that receives power supply from the vehicle flow battery 100. Further, even when it is difficult to predict the future running state of the vehicle 10, the vehicle 10 can be stably driven.

According to the first embodiment, the control unit 160 adjusts the flow rate of the positive electrode electrolyte 122 to be flown to the positive-side charge tank 142 by the first flow state adjusting unit (the oxidizing unit introduction valve 144 and the oxidizing unit discharge valve 146). It is increased with respect to the flow rate of the positive electrode electrolyte 122 circulated in the cell 112. In other words, the flow rate J ₂ positive electrode electrolyte 122 circulating the oxidant 141, by increasing relative flow J ₁ positive electrode electrolyte 122 circulating in the positive electrode cell 112, so as to increase the charging rate of the positive electrode side To control. The control on the negative electrode side by the control unit 160 is the same as the control on the positive electrode side described above.

  According to such a control method (corresponding to the above-described basic control method), the charging rate of the vehicle flow battery 100 can be easily controlled while satisfying certain responsiveness and accuracy. As a result, power can be stably supplied from the vehicle flow battery 100 to the vehicle 10.

"Second embodiment"
In the second embodiment, the negative charge tank 252 is configured to be smaller than the positive charge tank 142.

  The vehicle flow battery 200 of the second embodiment differs from the vehicle flow battery 100 of the first embodiment only in the above configuration. In the second embodiment, a configuration different from the first embodiment will be described. In the second embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment, and description thereof will be omitted.

"Configuration Specific to Vehicle Flow Battery 200"
With reference to FIG. 3, a configuration (reduction unit 250) specific to vehicle flow battery 200 will be described. Note that the oxidizing agent 141 of the oxidizing unit 140 will also be described in relation to the reducing unit 250.

The reducing agent 151 of the reducing unit 250 and the oxidizing agent 141 of the oxidizing unit 140 have different volume capacity densities [Ah / L] depending on the material. The volume capacity density [Ah / L] is the amount of current [Ah] that can be stored per unit volume [L]. The volume capacity density [Ah / L] of the reducing agent 151 is Li ₇ Ti ₅ O ₁₂ <Li metal <Li-Si alloy. The volume capacity density [Ah / L] of the oxidizing agent 141 is FePO ₄ <Ni _0.5 Mn _1.5 O ₄ <Mn ₂ O ₄ . Further, although depending on the combination of materials, the volume capacity density [Ah / L] of the reducing agent 151 is often larger than the volume capacity density [Ah / L] of the oxidizing agent 141 due to the physical properties of the material. .

  That is, although depending on the combination of materials, due to the physical properties of the material, even if the negative charge tank 252 is configured to be smaller than the positive charge tank 142, the volume capacity of the reducing agent 151 charged in the negative charge tank 252 [ [Ah] and the volume capacity [Ah] of the oxidant 141 filled in the positive electrode side charging tank 142 can be made equal. Therefore, the ratio of the volume [L] of the positive-side charge tank 142 to the volume [L] of the negative-side charge tank 252 is determined by the ratio of the volume capacity density of the oxidizing agent 141 to the volume capacity density of the reducing agent 151. The volume [L] of the negative electrode-side charge tank 152 is set small so as to be equal to the reciprocal of.

  Specifically, for example, when the volume capacity density [Ah / L] of the reducing agent 151 is five times larger than the volume capacity density [Ah / L] of the oxidizing agent 141, the volume [L] of the negative electrode side charging tank 252 becomes large. The volume [L] of the negative charge tank 252 is configured to be small so as to be 1/5 of the volume [L] of the positive charge tank 142.

"Effect peculiar to vehicle flow battery 200"
The effects specific to the vehicle flow battery 200 will be described.

  According to the second embodiment, the ratio between the volume of the positive-side charge tank 142 and the volume of the negative-side charge tank 252 is based on the reciprocal of the ratio of the volume capacity density of the oxidizing agent 141 and the volume capacity density of the reducing agent 151. Is set.

  According to such a configuration, the negative electrode-side charge tank 252 can be reduced in size. As a result, the vehicle flow battery 200 can be easily provided in the vehicle 10. When the vehicle flow battery 200 is used, since the oxidation energy on the positive electrode side and the reduction energy on the negative electrode side are configured to be equal, either one of the energy on the positive electrode side and the energy on the negative electrode side is reduced. It is possible to avoid a situation in which only the oxidizing agent (or reducing agent) in one of the charging tanks is exhausted first.

  Furthermore, according to such a configuration, for example, the weight of the negative electrode side charge tank 252 can be reduced, and the weight of the vehicle flow battery 200 can be reduced. As a result, the cruising distance of the vehicle 10 can be extended. Further, the weight of the load that can be loaded on the vehicle 10 can be increased.

  Furthermore, according to such a configuration, when the upper limit of the installation space of the positive-side charge tank 142 and the negative-side charge tank 152 in the vehicle 10 is determined, the positive-side charge tank 142 is relatively positioned relative to the negative-side charge tank 152. And the installation space can be used up to the upper limit without waste. In other words, the installation space vacated by reducing the size of the negative electrode charge tank 152 while making the negative electrode charge tank 152 relatively small can be used for the relatively large positive electrode charge tank 142. As a result, the cruising distance of the vehicle 10 can be maximized.

  Furthermore, according to such a configuration, the manufacturing cost of the vehicle flow battery 200 can be reduced, for example, with the downsizing of the negative electrode side charging tank 252.

"Third embodiment"
In the third embodiment, on the positive electrode side, the positive electrode electrolyte solution 122 including the positive electrode active material 121 is configured to flow directly to the oxidizing unit 340 after being drawn out of the positive electrode cell 112. The negative electrode has the same configuration as the positive electrode.

  The vehicle flow battery 300 of the third embodiment differs from the vehicle flow batteries 100 and 200 of the first and second embodiments only in the above configuration. In the third embodiment, a configuration different from the first and second embodiments will be described. In the third embodiment, the same components as those in the first and second embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in the first and second embodiments, and description thereof is omitted.

"Configuration Specific to Vehicle Flow Battery 300"
With reference to FIG. 4, a configuration (oxidizing unit 340 and reducing unit 350) specific to vehicle flow battery 300 will be described.

  In the oxidizing section 340, the positive electrode side charging tank 142 is connected to the positive electrode cell 112 on the upstream side, and is connected to the positive electrode side solution tank 123 on the downstream side. Specifically, in the oxidizing section 340, the outlet pipe 345 is connected between the positive electrode cell 112 of the power generation cell 110 and the positive electrode side charging tank 142, and the positive electrode side oxidation pump 147 is connected. The outlet pipe 345 is provided with an introduction valve 346. In the oxidizing unit 340, the positive electrode electrolyte 122 drawn out from the positive electrode cell 112 is sent to the positive-side charging tank 142 by the positive-side oxidizing pump 147 in a state where the oxidizing unit introduction valve 144 and the introduction valve 346 are opened. You. The positive electrode active material 121 contained in the positive electrode electrolyte 122 is in a reduced state in the power generation cell 110, and is oxidized by the oxidizing agent 141 stored in the positive electrode side charging tank 142. The positive electrode electrolyte 122 containing the oxidized positive electrode active material 121 is sent to the positive electrode cell 112 via the positive electrode side solution tank 123.

  In the reduction unit 350, the negative electrode side charging tank 152 is connected to the negative electrode cell 114 on the upstream side and connected to the negative electrode side solution tank 133 on the downstream side. Specifically, the outlet pipe 355 is connected between the negative electrode cell 114 of the power generation cell 110 and the negative electrode side charge tank 152, and the negative electrode side reduction pump 157 is connected thereto. The outlet pipe 355 is provided with an introduction valve 356. In the reduction unit 350, in a state where the reduction unit introduction valve 154 and the introduction valve 356 are open, the negative electrode electrolyte 132 drawn out from the negative electrode cell 114 is sent to the negative electrode side charging tank 152 by the negative electrode side reduction pump 157. You. The negative electrode active material 131 contained in the negative electrode electrolyte 132 is in an oxidized state in the power generation cell 110, and is reduced by the reducing agent 151 stored in the negative electrode side charging tank 152. The negative electrode electrolyte 132 containing the reduced negative electrode active material 131 is sent to the negative electrode cell 114 via the negative electrode side solution tank 133.

“Effect peculiar to vehicle flow battery 300”
The effects unique to the vehicle flow battery 300 will be described.

  According to the third embodiment, the positive electrode side charging tank 142 is connected to the positive electrode cell 112 on the upstream side and connected to the positive electrode side solution tank 123 on the downstream side. Similarly, the negative electrode side charge tank 152 is connected to the negative electrode cell 114 on the upstream side and connected to the negative electrode side solution tank 133 on the downstream side.

  According to such a configuration, the positive electrode active material 121 circulated through the positive electrode cell 112 and reduced (depleted of energy) is directly sent to the oxidizing agent 141 serving as an energy supply source to be quickly oxidized (energy Can be given). Further, the negative electrode active material 131 circulated and oxidized (depleted energy) by the negative electrode cell 114 can be directly sent to the reducing agent 151 which is a source of energy to be rapidly reduced (energy is given). . That is, energy can be efficiently supplied to the positive electrode active material 121 and the negative electrode active material 131 which have consumed energy. As a result, the vehicle 10 can stably travel.

  In particular, according to such a configuration, for example, when the vehicle 10 travels over a long distance, energy is continuously supplied directly to the positive electrode active material 121 and the negative electrode active material 131 whose energy has been consumed. be able to. As a result, even during long-distance traveling, the vehicle 10 can stably sail.

“Modification of First to Third Embodiments”
In implementing the present invention, the configurations of the above-described first to third embodiments are merely examples, and can be implemented with various changes.

  In the above-described first to third embodiments, iron-cobalt is assumed as a combination of active materials. Instead, the combination of the active materials may be, for example, iodine-cobalt or iron-chromium.

  In the above-described first to third embodiments, the vehicle 10 is assumed to be an electric vehicle that drives a vehicle-mounted motor by using the vehicle flow batteries 100, 200, and 300 as power sources. It may be configured to be used together.

  In the above-described second embodiment, for example, the volume of the negative electrode-side charge tank 252 is made larger than the volume of the positive electrode-side charge tank 142 in accordance with the ratio between the volume capacity density of the reducing agent 151 and the volume capacity density of the oxidant 141. It is assumed that the configuration is reduced. Instead, the volume capacity density of the reducing agent 151 and the volume capacity density of the oxidant 141 are equal, and the volume of the negative electrode side charge tank 152 is equal to the volume of the positive electrode side charge tank 142. Alternatively, the material of the reducing agent 151 and the material of the oxidizing agent 141 may be selected.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Vehicle, 20 ... Electric unit, 21 ... Power supply part, 22 ... Inverter, 23 ... Positive electrode terminal, 24 ... Negative electrode terminal, 25 ... Drive equipment, 100 ... Vehicle flow battery, 110 ... Power generation cell, 111 ... Positive electrode 112: Positive electrode cell, 113: Negative electrode, 114: Negative cell, 115: Diaphragm, 120: Positive-side circulating portion, 121: Positive active material, 121a: Bivalent positive active material, 121b: Trivalent positive active material, 122: Positive electrode electrolyte, 123: Positive electrode side solution tank, 124: Positive electrode side circulation part introduction pipe (positive side circulation pipe), 125 ... Positive electrode side circulation part outlet pipe (positive side circulation pipe), 126 ... Positive side circulation pump , 130... Negative electrode side circulating portion, 131... Negative electrode active material, 131 a... Trivalent negative electrode active material, 131 b. Part introduction pipe (negative side circulation pipe), 135 ... negative side circulation part outlet pipe (negative side circulation pipe), 136 ... negative side circulation pump, 140 ... oxidation part, 141 ... oxidizing agent (oxidation member), 142 ... positive electrode -Side charging tank (oxidizing member accommodating section), 143: oxidizing section introduction pipe, 144 ... oxidizing section introduction valve (positive opening / closing valve of the first flow state adjusting section), 145 ... oxidizing section lead pipe, 146 ... oxidizing section lead valve (Positive-side opening / closing valve of the first circulation state adjusting unit) 147 Positive-side oxidation pump, 150 Reducing unit, 151 Reducing agent (reducing member), 152 Negative-side charge tank, 153 Reducing unit introduction pipe, 154: reduction unit introduction valve (negative side opening / closing valve of second circulation state adjusting unit), 155 ... reduction unit outlet pipe, 156 ... reduction unit outflow valve (negative side opening / closing valve of second circulation state adjusting unit), 157 ... negative electrode Side reduction pump, 160 ... control unit, 161a ... Sensor, 161b: Charge sensor, 200: Flow battery for vehicle, 250: Reduction unit, 252: Charge tank for negative electrode, 300: Flow battery for vehicle, 320: Circulating unit for positive electrode, 330: Circulating unit for negative electrode, 340: Oxidation Parts, 345 ... outlet pipe, 346 ... introduction valve, 350 ... reduction section, 355 ... outlet pipe, 356 ... introduction valve.

Claims (10)

A power generation cell having a positive electrode cell containing a positive electrode and a negative cell containing a negative electrode,
A positive electrode side solution tank that stores a positive electrode electrolyte containing a positive electrode active material, and a positive electrode side circulation unit that circulates the positive electrode electrolyte between the positive electrode cell and the positive electrode solution tank via a positive electrode circulation pipe When,
A negative-electrode-side solution tank for storing a negative-electrode electrolyte containing a negative-electrode active material, and a negative-electrode-side circulating section that circulates the negative-electrode electrolyte between the negative-electrode cell and the positive-electrode-side solution tank via a negative-electrode-side circulation pipe And a vehicle flow battery comprising:
An oxidizing unit that has an oxidizing member housing unit that houses an oxidizing member, and that allows the positive electrode electrolyte to flow through the oxidizing member housing unit.
A reduction unit that has a reduction member storage unit that stores the reduction member, and that allows the negative electrode electrolyte to flow through the reduction member storage unit;
A first flow state adjusting unit that adjusts a flow state of the positive electrode electrolyte to the oxidizing member housing unit,
A second circulation state adjusting unit that adjusts a circulation state of the negative electrode electrolyte to the reduction member housing unit,
A flow battery for a vehicle, comprising: a control unit that controls the first distribution state adjustment unit and the second distribution state adjustment unit. The oxidizing member housing section is connected in parallel to the positive electrode side solution tank,
The reduction member housing is connected in parallel to the negative electrode solution tank,
The first flow state adjustment unit includes a positive-side open / close valve provided on at least one of an upstream side and a downstream side of the oxidizing member housing unit,
The flow battery for a vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the second flow condition adjusting unit includes a negative-side open / close valve provided on at least one of an upstream side and a downstream side of the reducing member housing unit. The oxidizing member housing portion, the upstream side is connected to the positive electrode cell, the downstream side is connected to the positive electrode side solution tank,
The upstream side of the reducing member housing portion is connected to the negative electrode cell, and the downstream side is connected to the negative electrode side solution tank,
The first circulation state adjustment unit includes a positive electrode side opening / closing valve provided between at least one of the positive electrode cell and the oxidizing member housing unit and between the oxidizing member housing unit and the positive electrode side solution tank.
The second flow state adjustment unit includes a negative electrode side opening / closing valve provided at least between the negative electrode cell and the reducing member storage unit and between the reduction member storage unit and the negative electrode solution tank. The vehicle flow battery according to claim 1.   2. The ratio of the volume of the oxidizing member housing to the volume of the reducing member housing is set based on the reciprocal of the ratio of the volume capacity density of the oxidizing member to the volume capacity density of the reducing member. The vehicle flow battery according to any one of claims 1 to 3.   The flow battery for a vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein at least one of the oxidizing member housing portion and the reducing member housing portion is configured to be at least replaceable or refillable with respect to the vehicle. The control unit further includes an acceleration state measuring unit that measures an acceleration state of the vehicle,
The control unit includes:
When the acceleration measured by the acceleration state measuring means is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the first circulation state adjustment unit circulates the positive electrode electrolyte to the oxidizing member housing unit,
The flow battery for a vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the negative electrode electrolyte is caused to flow to the reducing member housing part by the second flow state adjusting part. The control unit further includes a charging rate measuring unit that measures a charging rate on the positive electrode side and the negative electrode side,
The control unit includes:
When the charging rate on the positive electrode side measured by the charging rate measuring means is less than a predetermined value,
The first circulation state adjusting unit allows the positive electrode electrolyte to flow through the oxidizing member housing unit,
When the charge rate on the negative electrode side measured by the charge rate measuring means is less than a predetermined value,
The flow battery for a vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the negative electrode electrolyte is caused to flow to the reducing member housing part by the second flow state adjusting part. The control unit further includes a charging rate measuring unit that measures a charging rate on the positive electrode side and the negative electrode side,
The control unit includes:
When the charging rate on the positive electrode side measured by the charging rate measuring means decreases by more than a predetermined rate per unit time, the first flow state adjusting unit circulates the positive electrode electrolyte to the oxidizing member accommodating unit. Let
When the charge rate on the negative electrode side measured by the charge rate measuring means decreases by more than a predetermined rate per unit time, the second flow state adjusting unit circulates the negative electrode electrolyte to the reducing member accommodating unit. The flow battery for a vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 5, which causes the flow battery. The control unit includes:
Until the charging rate of the positive electrode side measured by the charging rate measuring means becomes a predetermined value or more, adjust the flow rate of the positive electrode electrolyte to the oxidizing member accommodating section by the first flow state adjusting section,
The flow rate of the negative electrode electrolyte to the reducing member accommodating part is adjusted by the second flow state adjusting part until the negative electrode side charging rate measured by the charging rate measuring means becomes a predetermined value or more. 9. The vehicle flow battery according to 7 or 8. The control unit includes:
The flow rate of the positive electrode electrolyte circulated through the oxidizing member housing unit by the first flow state adjusting unit is increased with respect to the flow rate of the positive electrode electrolyte circulated through the positive electrode cell,
The flow rate of the negative electrode electrolyte circulated through the reducing member housing unit by the first flow state adjusting unit is increased with respect to the flow rate of the negative electrode electrolyte circulated through the negative electrode cell. The vehicle flow battery according to claim 1.

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