JP2024047380A - Power generation and storage device - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a power generating and storing device that has a simple structure and is capable of stably storing electricity.
[Solution] The system includes a variable power storage device that stores all of the power generated by a power generation device and outputs smoothed power, a power conversion device that converts the power output from the variable power storage device into stored power, and a power storage device that stores the stored power output from the power conversion device and can output the stored power to the outside.
[Selected figure] Figure 2

Description

The present invention relates to a device that can store generated electricity.

Devices that generate electricity using various power sources are known (for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2009-13856 A JP 2005-332791 A Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 11-288742

Conventional power generation devices include those that utilize mechanical energy and potential energy, or those that utilize flywheels. These are mechanically ingenious devices that are designed to generate stable power. However, they inevitably have complex structures.

There were also models that rectified the current output from the generator motor before outputting it. However, this did not allow for sufficient rectification, making it difficult to obtain stable power.

The present invention has been made in consideration of the above points. Its purpose is to provide a power generation and storage device that has a simple structure and can store electricity stably.

The features of the power generation and storage device according to the present invention are as follows:
A fluctuating power storage device that stores all of the power generated by the power generation device and outputs smoothed power;
a power conversion device that converts the power output from the variable power storage device into stored power;
The power supply system further includes a power storage device that stores the stored power output from the power conversion device and outputs the stored power to the outside.

It has a simple structure and can store electricity stably.

1 is a perspective view showing an outline of an electricity generating and storing device according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram showing functions of the power generation and storage device. 6 is a flowchart showing a process in which a control unit 200 controls a switching element SW1. 6 is a flowchart showing a process in which a control unit 200 controls switching elements SW2 and SW3. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an example of a power generating and storing device 10-2 (piston-crank mechanism). FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an example of a power generating and storing device 10-2 (piston-crank mechanism). FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a power generating and storing device 10-4 (a rotation mechanism using a gear and a rack gear). 1 is a perspective view showing an application example (rotation mechanism by pedaling a bicycle) of the power generating and storing device 10-1. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an application example (a rotation mechanism using both hands) of the power generating and storing device 10-1. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an application example (foot-operated rotation mechanism) of the power generating and storing device 10-1. FIG.

<<<<<Outline of the Present Invention>>>>
The outline of this embodiment will be described below as first to fifth aspects.

<<First Aspect>>
One object of the first aspect is to provide a power generation and storage device that has a simple structure and is capable of stably storing electricity. Another object of the first aspect is to provide a power generation and storage device that is capable of accurately storing electricity even when the power generated by the power generation device fluctuates.

According to a first aspect,
A fluctuating power storage device (e.g., an electric double layer capacitor unit 220 described later) that stores all of the power generated by a power generation device (e.g., a power generation device 210 described later) and outputs smoothed power;
A power conversion device (e.g., a power conversion device 230 described later) that converts the power output from the variable power storage device into stored power;
There is provided a power generation and storage device including a power storage device (such as a lithium ion secondary battery unit 240 described later) that stores the stored power output from the power conversion device and can output the stored power to the outside.

The power generation and storage device includes a variable power storage device, a power conversion device, and a storage device.

The fluctuating power storage device stores all of the power generated by the power generation device. The power generation device outputs the generated power. After the fluctuating power storage device stores the power, it outputs the smoothed power.

The generated power may fluctuate sharply depending on the operating environment. For example, it is expected that the operation of the power generation device may become unstable due to deterioration over time, causing the generated voltage to fluctuate. Furthermore, it is expected that the voltage may fluctuate sharply when the power source is human power (e.g., by hand or foot), wind power, or water power. Storage batteries such as lithium-ion secondary batteries cannot keep up with the fluctuating power due to various factors, and the generated power has to be wasted. The fluctuating power storage device can store even the generated power that changes sharply without leakage, allowing the generated power to be used effectively.

The power conversion device converts the power output from the variable power storage device into stored power.

The power storage device stores the stored power output from the power conversion device. The power storage device can output the stored charge to an external load as power.

Rather than supplying the generated power directly to a power storage device, the generated power is first stored in a variable power storage device that can store the generated power without leakage, and then stored in the power storage device via a power conversion device, so even if the generated power fluctuates suddenly, it can be stored accurately.

The power generation and storage device can function as a portable battery power source.

The power generation and storage device is equipped with a variable power storage device, a power conversion device, and a storage device, has a simple structure, and can store electricity stably using the power conversion device.

<<Second Aspect>>
One object of the second aspect is to provide a power generation and storage device that can be appropriately controlled by a control unit by appropriately switching the power supplied to the control unit according to the generated power, in other words, to provide a power generation and storage device that can stably control the storage of power immediately after the start of power generation.

The second aspect is the first aspect,
A first switching device (e.g., a switching element SW2 described later) that controls a conducting state or a non-conducting state between the power conversion device and the power storage device;
a control unit (e.g., a detection and determination control unit 250 described later) that detects a generated power, and when the generated power is less than a first predetermined power, brings the first opening and closing device into a non-energized state, and when the generated power is equal to or greater than the first predetermined power, brings the first opening and closing device into a power-on state,
When the first opening/closing device is in a non-energized state, the generated power is supplied to the control unit (for example, a path (A) described later),
When the first opening and closing device is in an energized state, the electric power stored in the power storage device is supplied to the control unit (for example, via a path (B) described later).

The power generation and storage device further includes a first opening and closing device and a control unit.

The first switching device controls the energized or non-energized state between the power conversion device and the power storage device.

The control unit detects the generated power. When the detected generated power is less than a first predetermined power, the control unit puts the first opening and closing device into a non-energized state. When the first opening and closing device is in a non-energized state, the generated power is supplied to the control unit.

On the other hand, when the detected generated power is equal to or greater than the first predetermined power, the control unit switches the first opening/closing device to a conducting state. When the first opening/closing device is in a conducting state, the power stored in the power storage device is supplied to the control unit.

That is, when the generated power is less than the first predetermined power, the generated power is directly supplied to the control unit. As a result, immediately after the start of power generation, the start of the control unit is prioritized over the storage of power in the storage device, and control of the control unit is started. On the other hand, when the generated power reaches a certain level, storage is started, and the power stored in the storage device is supplied to the control unit to perform stable control.

<<Third Aspect>>
An object of the third aspect is to provide a power generation and storage device that can efficiently use electric power generated by a power generation device as electric power storage.

The third aspect is the second aspect,
A second switching device (e.g., a switching element SW1 described later) that controls a conducting state or a non-conducting state between the power generation device and the variable power storage device;
a first rectifier element (e.g., a diode D1 described later) connected in parallel with the second switching device between the power generation device and the variable power storage device and blocking the flow of power from the variable power storage device to the power generation device;
When the generated power is less than a second predetermined power, the control unit sets the second opening and closing device to a non-conductive state and supplies the generated power from the power generation device to the variable power storage device via the first rectifying element (for example, path (A) described below), and when the generated power is equal to or greater than the second predetermined power, sets the second opening and closing device to a conductive state and supplies the generated power from the power generation device to the variable power storage device without passing through the first rectifying element.

The power generation and storage device further includes a second switching device and a first rectifying element.

The second switching device controls the energized or non-energized state between the power generation device and the variable power storage device.

The first rectifying element is provided between the power generation device and the variable power storage device. The first rectifying element is connected in parallel with the second switching device. That is, the first rectifying element and the second switching device are connected in parallel and provided between the power generation device and the variable power storage device.

When the generated power is less than the second predetermined power, the control unit puts the second opening and closing device into a non-energized state. As a result, the generated power from the power generation device is supplied to the variable power storage device via the first rectifying element. By passing the power through the first rectifying element, it is possible to prevent reverse flow of power, etc.

On the other hand, when the generated power is equal to or greater than the second predetermined power, the control unit switches the second opening and closing device to a conductive state. As a result, the generated power from the power generation device is supplied directly to the variable power storage device without passing through the first rectifying element. By not passing through the first rectifying element, the generated power from the power generation device can be supplied to the variable power storage device without loss.

<<Fourth Aspect>>
An object of the fourth aspect is to provide a power generation and storage device that can stably maintain the electric power stored in the power storage device and efficiently utilize the stored electric power.

The fourth aspect is the third aspect,
The power supply device further includes a second rectifier element (such as a diode D2 described below) between the power generation device and the control unit, which blocks the flow of power to the power generation device.

By passing it through a second rectifying element, it is possible to prevent reverse flow of power, etc.

<<Fifth Aspect>>
One object of the fifth aspect is to provide a power generation and storage device that can use electric power from a power source other than the power generation device as stored electric power.

The fifth aspect is the first aspect,
an input unit (e.g., an input unit 300 described later) that is connected in parallel with the power generation device and can input electric power from an outside;
An optimization device (e.g., an optimization circuit 310 described later) that converts power from an external source,
The control unit supplies a control signal corresponding to an external power to the optimization device.

The power generation and storage device further includes an input unit and an optimization device.

The input unit is connected in parallel to the power generation device. The input unit can receive power from the outside.

The optimizer converts power from an external source.

Electricity from outside can also be appropriately stored in the storage device via the variable power storage device.

<<<<<Details of this embodiment>>>>
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing an outline of a power generation and storage device 10 according to the present embodiment. Fig. 2 is a functional block diagram showing the electrical functions of the power generation and storage device 10.

As shown in FIG. 1, the power generating and storing device 10 has a housing 100-1 and a handle 110-1. The handle 110-1 is rotatably provided relative to the housing 100-1. The handle 110-1 can be rotated by an operator. The operator can grip the housing 100-1 and rotate the handle 110-1. The power generating and storing device 10 can generate and store electricity by rotating the handle 110-1.

Figure 2 is a functional block diagram showing the electrical functions of the power generation and storage device 10. The power generation and storage device 10 has a control unit 200.

<<<Configuration of control unit 200>>>
The control unit 200 mainly
A power generation device 210;
An electric double layer capacitor unit 220;
A power conversion device 230;
A lithium ion secondary battery unit 240;
A detection and determination control unit 250;
The control unit 200 further includes
A diode D1;
A diode D2;
A switching element SW1,
A switching element SW2,
A switching element SW3,
A manual switch SW4;
has.

<<Power generation device 210>>
The power generating device 210 is connected to the handle 110-1. The power generating device 210 is linked to the handle 110-1.

In this embodiment, the power generating device 210 is composed of a DC motor. Note that the power generating device 210 is not limited to a DC motor, and may be anything that can generate power. The power generating device 210 has a coil and a magnet. In the power generating device 210, the coil rotates in association with the rotational movement of the handle 110-1. The power generating device 210 generates power in response to the movement of the coil. The power generating device 210 generates power (voltage) in response to the movement of the handle 110-1. The power generating device 210 generates a generating voltage that changes in response to the movement of the handle 110-1.

In this embodiment, the handle 110-1 operates using human power as the power source. The power source can be any movement of the human body, such as the movement of the hands or arms or the movement of the feet.

The power generation device 210 may have a planetary gear mechanism. By incorporating a planetary gear mechanism, a large reduction ratio can be obtained with a small number of stages, and a large torque can be transmitted. In addition, the input shaft and the output shaft can be arranged coaxially. Furthermore, since the load can be distributed to multiple planetary gears, wear and gear breakage can be reduced.

<<Electric double layer capacitor section 220>>
The electric double layer capacitor section 220 is electrically connected to the power generation device 210 via the switching element SW1 or the diode D1. The electric double layer capacitor section 220 temporarily stores (stores) the power generated by the power generation device 210.

The electric double layer capacitor section 220 has at least one electric double layer capacitor 222 (cell). When multiple electric double layer capacitors 222 are used, the multiple electric double layer capacitors 222 are connected in series. The number of electric double layer capacitors 222 connected in series may be appropriately determined according to the value of the maximum voltage that may be output from the power generation device 210. The voltages applied to each of the multiple electric double layer capacitors 222 are approximately equal.
For example, five electric double layer capacitors 222 of 1 F (farad)/2.7 V (volts) can be connected in series to form the electric double layer capacitor section 220 .

As mentioned above, the power generation device 210 is operated manually or by human power. For this reason, the generated voltage changes significantly over time, and the generated voltage fluctuates suddenly, such as in a sawtooth waveform. To store electricity efficiently, it is necessary to capture all of the generated power, which changes significantly over time. However, the lithium ion secondary battery section 240 generally cannot store electricity that changes suddenly.

In contrast, the electric double layer capacitor unit 220 can capture the generated power, which changes greatly over time, without leaking it. For this reason, if the electric double layer capacitor unit 220 is not provided in the configuration, a current cannot flow even if the generated power changes greatly over time, making it difficult to store the generated power corresponding to the operation of the handle in the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240. By providing the electric double layer capacitor unit 220, it is possible to temporarily store the rapidly changing power in the electric double layer capacitor unit 220 without leaking it, and output a smoothed voltage from the electric double layer capacitor unit 220.

<Relationship with operating environment temperature>
The operating environment temperature of the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240 is generally −20 to +60° C. Therefore, temperatures below −20° C. are outside the operating environment temperature range of the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240. For this reason, in cold regions such as winter mountains or Hokkaido in winter, there is a possibility that the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240 may not function adequately.

To deal with such a situation, a method of warming the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240 using a heat source such as a heater is conceivable. However, this requires adding a heater to the configuration, which inevitably makes the configuration complicated.

Another possible solution is to use a special lithium-ion electrolyte that is compatible with extremely low temperatures. However, using a special lithium-ion electrolyte would inevitably increase costs significantly and make development more difficult.

In contrast, the operating temperature range for the electric double layer capacitor unit 220 is -40 to +80°C. In other words, the electric double layer capacitor unit 220 is an electricity storage device that can function adequately even in extremely cold regions.

The power generated by the power generation device 210 is first stored in the electric double layer capacitor section 220. Even if the temperature at this point is -20°C or lower, the electric double layer capacitor section 220 functions without any problems. However, at this point, the lithium ion secondary battery section 240 does not function adequately because the temperature is outside the range.

Next, the power passing through the electric double layer capacitor section 220 generates heat due to the internal resistance of the lithium ion secondary battery section 240. This heat increases the temperature inside the lithium ion secondary battery section 240. In other words, by supplying power via the electric double layer capacitor section 220, the heat generation phenomenon in the lithium ion secondary battery section 240 can be utilized to enable the lithium ion secondary battery section 240, which could not be used at temperatures below -20°C, to be used as an electricity storage device.

<<Power conversion device 230>>
The power conversion device 230 is connected in series with the electric double layer capacitor section 220. The power conversion device 230 is provided between the electric double layer capacitor section 220 and the lithium ion secondary battery section 240. The power output from the electric double layer capacitor section 220 is supplied to the power conversion device 230. The power conversion device 230 outputs power for storing electricity in the lithium ion secondary battery section 240. The power conversion device 230 supplies a stable DC voltage to the lithium ion secondary battery section 240. The power conversion device 230 is configured, for example, by a DC/DC converter.

The power conversion device 230 operates when the voltage due to the charge stored in the electric double layer capacitor unit 220 reaches or exceeds a predetermined operating voltage, and supplies the charge stored in the electric double layer capacitor unit 220 to charge the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240. The power conversion device 230 converts the power output from the electric double layer capacitor unit 220 into power for storage in the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240.

<<Lithium ion secondary battery section 240>>
The lithium ion secondary battery section 240 is connected in series with the electric double layer capacitor section 220 via the power conversion device 230. The lithium ion secondary battery section 240 is charged with the stored power output from the power conversion device 230. The lithium ion secondary battery section 240 has at least one lithium ion secondary battery 242 (cell). When multiple lithium ion secondary batteries 242 are used, the multiple lithium ion secondary batteries 242 are connected in series. The number of lithium ion secondary batteries 242 may be determined according to the maximum voltage value output from the power conversion device 230.

<Battery Management System 244>
The lithium ion secondary battery unit 240 is connected to a battery management system 244. The battery management system 244 manages the state of the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240. The battery management system 244 manages the charge and discharge of the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240. The battery management system 244 manages the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240 so as not to be overcharged, overheated, overdischarged, etc. When a plurality of lithium ion secondary batteries 242 are used, the battery management system 244 manages so that a voltage is applied evenly to each of the lithium ion secondary batteries 242.

<<Detection and Determination Control Unit 250>>
The detection and judgment control unit 250 monitors the voltages at various points in the control unit 200 and controls the operation of various switching elements SW1 to SW3, which will be described later. The detection and judgment control unit 250 detects the value of the generated voltage output from the power generation device 210 (voltage detection 1 in FIG. 2). The detection and judgment control unit 250 detects the value of the smoothed voltage output from the electric double layer capacitor unit 220 (voltage detection 2 in FIG. 2). The detection and judgment control unit 250 detects the value of the stored voltage output from the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240 (voltage detection 3 in FIG. 2).

The detection and judgment control unit 250 has a CPU (Central Processing Unit), memory (random access memory, read-only memory), I/O (input/output), etc. (not shown). The detection and judgment control unit 250 executes a program written in the read-only memory to detect the voltage values described above (voltage detections 1 to 3) and controls switching elements (described below) according to the detection results. The specific processing and control of the detection and judgment control unit 250 will be described later.

<Power supply device 252 for control unit>
The control unit power supply device 252 supplies stable driving power to the detection and determination control unit 250. The control unit power supply device 252 is constituted by, for example, a regulator. Specifically, the control unit power supply device 252 is constituted by a linear regulator such as a three-terminal regulator. Note that the control unit power supply device 252 may also be constituted by a switching regulator.

The control unit power supply device 252 stably supplies the driving power output from the power generation device 210 to the detection and judgment control unit 250. When the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240 is not sufficiently charged, the detection and judgment control unit 250 can be operated by supplying the driving power output from the power generation device 210 to the detection and judgment control unit 250 via the control unit power supply device 252 (path (A) described below).

When the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240 has sufficient stored power, the driving power output from the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240 is supplied to the detection and judgment control unit 250 via the control unit power supply device 252 (path (B) described below).

In addition, driving power from an external power source can be supplied to the detection and judgment control unit 250 via the control unit power supply device 252 (path (C) described below). By using an external power source, the detection and judgment control unit 250 can be operated without consuming the stored power of the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240.

<<Diode D1>>
The diode D1 prevents power from the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240 or an external power source from flowing back to the power generating device 210. The diode D1 is, for example, a body diode. The diode D1 may be any element that has a rectifying effect of allowing a current to flow in only one direction.

<<Diode D2>>
The diode D2 prevents power from being supplied (backflow) from the lithium ion secondary battery section 240 to the power generating device 210. The diode D2 may be any element having a rectifying effect that allows current to flow in only one direction.

<<Switching element SW1>>
The switching element SW1 opens and closes in response to a control signal from the detection and determination control unit 250. When the switching element SW1 is open, it is in a non-conductive state, and when it is closed, it is in a conductive state.

When the power generation device 210 is outputting generated power, the switching element SW1 is switched to a conducting state to bypass the diode D1. Bypassing the diode D1, loss of generated power due to a voltage drop across the diode D1 can be prevented.

On the other hand, when the power generation device 210 is not outputting generated power, the switching element SW1 is in a non-conductive state. The diode D1 prevents power from the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240 or an external power source from flowing back into the power generation device 210.

The switching element SW1 is composed of, for example, a field-effect transistor (FET).

<<Switching element SW2>>
The switching element SW2 opens and closes in response to a control signal from the detection and judgment control unit 250. When the switching element SW2 is open, it is in a non-conductive state, and when the switching element SW2 is closed, it is in a conductive state. When the operation of the detection and judgment control unit 250 is to be continued, the detection and judgment control unit 250 maintains the conductive state of the switching element SW2.

The switching element SW2 is composed of, for example, a field-effect transistor (FET).

<<Switching element SW3>>
The switching element SW3 opens and closes in response to a control signal from the detection and judgment control unit 250. When the switching element SW3 is open, it is in a non-conductive state, and when it is closed, it is in a conductive state. When stored power is being output from the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240, the switching element SW3 is in a conductive state. When stored power is not being output from the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240, the switching element SW3 is in a non-conductive state.

The switching element SW3 is composed of, for example, a field-effect transistor (FET).

<Operation of Switching Elements SW2 and SW3>
When the power generation device 210 is not outputting generated power or when the charged device is not being charged, the detection and determination control unit 250 sets the switching elements SW2 and SW3 to a non-conductive state, and electrically isolates the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240 to an insulated state. When the device is not in operation, such as during storage, the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240 can be prevented from discharging.

<Manual switch SW4>
The operator operates the manual switch SW4 to supply power from the lithium ion secondary battery to the control unit power supply device 252 and start the detection and judgment control unit 250. The start of the detection and judgment control unit 250 operates the switching element SW3, and the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240 and the charged device are brought into a conductive state. This allows the charged device to be charged.

When the detection and judgment control unit 250 is started based on the operation of the manual switch SW4, the switching element SW2 operates and the power conversion device 230 and the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240 are energized. At this time, if the operator operates the handle 110-1, the generated voltage from the power generation device 210 is stored in the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240 via the electric double layer capacitor unit 220 and the power conversion device 230.

When the operator operates the manual switch SW4, the power is applied, and when the operator releases the manual switch SW4, the power is applied.

<External power supply and input unit 300>
Power can be supplied from an external power source such as DC 12V, an AC adapter, a cigarette lighter socket, a solar panel, or a commercial power source. The external power source is electrically connected to the input unit 300. The input unit 300 is composed of, for example, a connector or a terminal. Power from the external power source is supplied to the control unit 200 along a path (C) shown in FIG. 2 .

<Optimization Circuit 310>
The optimization circuit 310 is composed of a so-called buck converter. The optimization circuit 310 sets the output voltage to one of 12V, 8V, and 5V according to a voltage selection signal output from the detection and judgment control unit 250. The output voltage of the optimization circuit 310 can be switched according to the type of external power source, such as DC 12V, an AC adapter, a cigarette lighter socket, or a solar panel. When the voltage of the electric double layer capacitor unit 220 is low, the conversion ratio is increased to increase the current.

<<<<Operation of Handle 110-1 by Operator>>>
The operation of the handle 110-1 by the operator and the generated power (voltage) from the power generation device 210 will be briefly described below.

<Immediately after the handle 110-1 starts to be operated>
Immediately after the start of operating the handle 110-1, the movement of the handle 110-1 is still slow, and sufficient power is not generated by the power generation device 210. In other words, immediately after operating the handle 110-1, the value of the voltage output from the power generation device 210 (hereinafter referred to as voltage value 1) is likely to be smaller than the value of the voltage output from the electric double layer capacitor section 220 (hereinafter referred to as voltage value 2).

<When the handle 110-1 is being steadily operated>
When the handle 110-1 is being steadily operated, the handle 110-1 is moved at a certain speed, and sufficient power is generated from the power generation device 210. In other words, when the handle 110-1 is being steadily operated, the voltage value 1 from the power generation device 210 is likely to be greater than the voltage value 2 from the electric double layer capacitor section 220.

<Immediately before completing operation of the handle 110-1>
Since the movement of the handle 110-1 slows down immediately before the operation of the handle 110-1 is completed, sufficient power is not generated from the power generation device 210. In other words, the voltage value 1 from the power generation device 210 is likely to be smaller than the voltage value 2 from the electric double layer capacitor section 220.

<<<<Processing of control unit 200>>>
The following describes the processing of the control unit 200. Fig. 3 is a flowchart showing the processing of the control unit 200 controlling the switching element SW1. Fig. 4 is a flowchart showing the processing of the control unit 200 controlling the switching elements SW2 and SW3.

<Control of Switching Element SW1>
As shown in Fig. 3, first, the CPU of the control unit 200 detects the value of the voltage output from the power generation device 210 (hereinafter referred to as voltage value 1) (step S11). The voltage value 1 is the value of the voltage output from the power generation device 210, and the value may vary over time. For this reason, the voltage value may be an average value of voltage values detected multiple times over a predetermined period of time. For example, the voltage value 1 may be an average value of 10 detections every 100 milliseconds. Even if the voltage value varies greatly, it can be accurately determined by the process of step S15 described later.

Next, the CPU of the control unit 200 detects the value of the voltage output from the electric double layer capacitor unit 220 (hereinafter referred to as voltage value 2) (step S13). The value of the voltage output from the electric double layer capacitor unit 220 is somewhat stable compared to the value of the voltage output from the power generation device 210. However, the voltage value may be an average value of voltage values detected multiple times over a predetermined period of time. For example, the voltage value 2 may be an average value detected 10 times every 100 milliseconds. Even if the voltage value fluctuates greatly, it can be accurately determined by the processing of step S15 described below.

Next, the CPU of the control unit 200 judges whether or not voltage value 1 is greater than the value obtained by adding a predetermined value to voltage value 2 (step S15). By judging voltage value 1 based on voltage value 2, the magnitude of voltage value 1 can be judged with voltage value 2 as the background, and the power generation state can be accurately judged. The predetermined value may be any value equal to or greater than 0. The predetermined value may be determined according to the characteristics of the power generation device 210 and the electric double layer capacitor unit 220, the diodes D1 and D2, the predicted voltage fluctuation state, etc.

When the CPU of the control unit 200 determines that the voltage value 1 is greater than the voltage value 2 plus a predetermined value (YES), it turns on the switching element SW1 (step S17) and ends this subroutine. By turning on the switching element SW1, the diode D1 is bypassed, and loss of generated power due to the voltage drop of the diode D1 can be prevented.

On the other hand, when the CPU of the control unit 200 determines that the voltage value 1 is equal to or less than the voltage value 2 plus a predetermined value (NO), it sets the switching element SW1 to a non-conductive state (step S19) and ends this subroutine. By setting the switching element SW1 to a non-conductive state and passing the power through the diode D1, it is possible to prevent the power from the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240 or the external power source from flowing back to the power generation device 210.

<Control of switching elements SW2 and SW3>
4, first, the CPU of the control unit 200 determines whether or not power supply to the control unit 200 has started (step S21). Specifically, power supply to the control unit 200 starts when the power generated by the power generation device 210 starts to be supplied to the control unit 200 (immediately after the start of operation), when the switching element SW4 is operated by an operator to start power supply from the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240 to the control unit 200, or when an external power source is connected to start power supply to the control unit 200.

When the CPU of the control unit 200 determines that power supply to the control unit 200 has started (YES), it switches the switching elements SW2 and SW3 to a conducting state (step S23) and ends this subroutine. When the switching elements SW2 and SW3 are in a conducting state, the generated voltage from the power generation device 210 is supplied to the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240 via the electric double layer capacitor unit 220 and the power conversion device 230. In addition, when the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240 and the charged device are in a conducting state, the charged device can be charged.

When the CPU of the control unit 200 determines that power is not being supplied to the control unit 200 (NO), it determines whether a predetermined time has passed since charging of the charged device was completed (step S25). The charged device outputs a signal indicating whether charging is in progress, and the CPU of the control unit 200 can determine whether the charged device is charging by receiving this signal. The process of step S25 is a process of determining whether a predetermined time has passed since charging of the charged device was stopped (ended) by the signal output from the charged device.

When the CPU of the control unit 200 determines in the determination process of step S25 that the charging of the charged device has ended and a predetermined time has elapsed (YES), it sets the switching elements SW2 and SW3 to a non-conductive state (step S27) and ends this subroutine. By setting the switching elements SW2 and SW3 to a non-conductive state, the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240 is electrically isolated and insulated, preventing discharge of the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240.

When the CPU of the control unit 200 determines that the predetermined time has not elapsed since charging of the charged device was completed (NO), it proceeds to step S23.

<<<Operation of control unit 200>>>
The operation of the control unit 200 will be described below.

<<When storing electricity>>
<Before the operation of the detection determination control unit 250>
In a state before the detection and judgment control unit 250 operates, the process of step S19 in Fig. 3 and the process of step S27 in Fig. 4 form the path (A) shown in Fig. 2. Electric power is directly supplied from the power generation device 210 to the detection and judgment control unit 250 via the path (A).

Immediately after the operator starts to operate the handle 110-1, sufficient power is not generated and the detection and judgment control unit 250 is not yet operating. In this state, the switching element SW1 is in a non-conductive state. Therefore, the diode D1 is not bypassed and the generated power from the power generation device 210 flows through the diode D1.

The generated power from the power generation device 210 flows through diode D1, then passes through diode D2 and is supplied to the control unit power supply device 252. The generated power from the power generation device 210 is stabilized by the control unit power supply device 252 and supplied to the detection and judgment control unit 250. If the generated voltage supplied to the detection and judgment control unit 250 is equal to or greater than the operating voltage, the detection and judgment control unit 250 starts operating.

<After Operation of Detection and Determination Control Unit 250>
After the detection and determination control unit 250 starts its operation, the path (B) shown in Fig. 2 is formed by the process of step S17 in Fig. 3 and the process of step S23 in Fig. 4. Power is supplied from the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240 to the detection and determination control unit 250 via the path (B).

When the detection and judgment control unit 250 starts operation, it switches the switching elements SW2 and SW3 to a conducting state. The generated power from the power generation device 210 passes through the electric double layer capacitor unit 220 and the power conversion device 230, and is supplied to and stored in the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240. The power stored in the lithium ion secondary battery unit 240 is supplied to the detection and judgment control unit 250 (path (B)). This allows a more stable voltage to be supplied to the detection and judgment control unit 250.

In this way, by switching the path of the generated power from the power generation device 210 from (A) to (B) after the handle 110-1 is operated, the detection and judgment control unit 250 can be started appropriately, and control by the detection and judgment control unit 250 can be continued stably.

<During discharging operation (charging electricity into the target object)>
When a charged device (not shown) such as a mobile phone is connected and manual switch SW4 is operated, switching element SW3 is energized, the stored power in the lithium ion secondary battery section 240 is supplied to the charged device, and the charged device is charged.

<<<<Other embodiments>>>>
In the following, a power generating and storing device that operates using human power as a power source will be mainly described, but the power source is not limited to human power. The power generating device 210 may be operated using animals, plants, hydraulic power, thermal power, atomic power, wind power, chemical reactions, or the like as a power source.

Figure 5 is a perspective view showing an example of a power generating and storing device 10-2 (piston-crank mechanism). The power generating and storing device 10-2 comprises a housing 100-2 and a handle 110-2. Power can be generated and stored by moving the handle 110-2 back and forth in the vertical direction. The handle 110-2 corresponds to the handle 110-1 shown in Figure 1.

Figure 6 is a perspective view showing an example of the power generation and storage device 10-2 (piston-crank mechanism). The power generation and storage device 10-3 includes a housing 100-3 and a handle 110-2. By pulling the handle 110-2, which is connected to a string, a rotating mechanism (not shown) inside the power generation and storage device 10-2 rotates, allowing power to be generated and stored. The string is connected to an elastic body (not shown) such as a spring, and is stored in the housing 100-3 when the handle 110-2 is released. With this configuration, the handle 110-2 can be moved back and forth. The handle 110-2 corresponds to the handle 110-1 shown in Figure 1.

Figure 7 is a perspective view showing an example of the power generation and storage device 10-4 (a rotation mechanism using gears and rack gears). The power generation and storage device 10-4 includes a housing 100-4 and a gear rack gear mechanism 110-4. By pushing in the gear rack gear mechanism 110-4, a gear (not shown) rotates, generating and storing electricity. The gear rack gear mechanism 110-4 is connected to an elastic body (not shown) such as a spring, and by releasing the gear rack gear mechanism 110-4, it protrudes from the housing 100-4. With this configuration, the gear rack gear mechanism 110-4 can be moved back and forth. The gear rack gear mechanism 110-4 corresponds to the handle 110-1 shown in Figure 1.

Figure 8 is a perspective view showing an application example of the power generating and storing device 10-1 (a rotation mechanism caused by pedaling a bicycle). By pedaling the bicycle 50 shown in Figure 8, a chain inside the bicycle 50 rotates (not shown), allowing the power generating and storing device 10-1 to generate and store electricity.

Figure 9 is a perspective view showing an application example (a two-handed rotation mechanism) of the power generating and storing device 10-1. By rotating the two-handed rotation mechanism 61 of the two-handed generator 60 shown in Figure 9, a chain inside the two-handed generator 60 rotates (not shown), allowing the power generating and storing device 10-1 to generate and store electricity. The two-handed rotation mechanism 61 corresponds to the handle 110-1 shown in Figure 1.

Figure 10 is a perspective view showing an application example (foot-operated rotation mechanism) of the power generation and storage device 10-1. By stepping on the foot pedal part 71 of the foot pedal machine 70 shown in Figure 10, a chain inside the foot pedal machine 70 rotates (not shown), allowing the power generation and storage device 10-1 to generate and store electricity. The foot pedal part 71 corresponds to the handle 110-1 shown in Figure 1.

<<<<<Scope of the embodiment>>>>
As described above, the present embodiment has been described. However, the description and drawings forming a part of this disclosure should not be understood as being limiting. Various embodiments not described here are included.

10-1, 10-2, 10-3, 10-4 Power generating and storing device 200 Control unit 210 Power generating device 220 Electric double layer capacitor unit 230 Storage device 240 Lithium ion secondary battery device 250 Detection and judgment control unit SW1 Switching element SW2 Switching element SW3 Switching element

The features of the power generation and storage device according to the present invention are as follows:
A fluctuating power storage device that stores all of the power generated by the power generation device and outputs smoothed power;
a power conversion device that converts the power output from the variable power storage device into stored power;
a power storage device that stores the stored power output from the power conversion device and outputs the stored power to an outside;
A first switching device that controls a conducting state or a non-conducting state between the power conversion device and the power storage device;
a control unit that detects a generated power, and brings the first opening/closing device into a non-energized state when the generated power is less than a first predetermined power, and brings the first opening/closing device into a power-on state when the generated power is equal to or greater than the first predetermined power,
When the first opening/closing device is in a non-energized state, the generated power is supplied to the control unit, and when the first opening/closing device is in a power-on state, the power stored in the storage device is supplied to the control unit .

Claims (5)

A fluctuating power storage device that stores all of the power generated by the power generation device and outputs smoothed power;
a power conversion device that converts the power output from the variable power storage device into stored power;
a power storage device that stores the stored power output from the power conversion device and outputs the stored power to the outside. A first switching device that controls a conducting state or a non-conducting state between the power conversion device and the power storage device;
a control unit that detects a generated power, and brings the first switching device into a non-energized state when the generated power is less than a first predetermined power, and brings the first switching device into a power-on state when the generated power is equal to or greater than the first predetermined power,
When the first switching device is in a non-energized state, generated power is supplied to the control unit,
The power generating and storing device according to claim 1 , wherein when the first opening and closing device is in an energized state, the electric power stored in the power storage device is supplied to the control unit. A second switching device that controls a current-carrying state or a current-discharging state between the power generation device and the variable power storage device;
a first rectifier element connected in parallel with the second switching device between the power generation device and the variable power storage device, and blocking the flow of power from the variable power storage device to the power generation device;
The power generation and storage device of claim 2, wherein the control unit, when the generated power is less than a second predetermined power, turns the second opening and closing device to a non-conductive state and supplies the generated power from the power generation device to the variable power storage device via the first rectifying element, and, when the generated power is less than the second predetermined power, turns the second opening and closing device to a conductive state and supplies the generated power from the power generation device to the variable power storage device without passing through the first rectifying element. The power generation and storage device according to claim 3, further comprising a second rectifying element between the power generation device and the control unit, the second rectifying element blocking the flow of power to the power generation device. an input unit connected in parallel to the power generation device and capable of inputting electric power from an external source;
and an optimization device that converts power from an external source;
The power generating and storing device according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit supplies a control signal corresponding to external power to the optimization device.