JP2006107893A - Fuel cell power generating system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a fuel cell power generating system filling a water reservoir related to power generation with water without taking much labor. <P>SOLUTION: The fuel cell power generating system comprises a fuel cell generating power by making fuel react with an oxidant, water reservoirs 3, 8, 14 storing water related to power generation of the fuel cell, and a control device 21. The fuel cell power generating system has a water filling mode filling the water reservoirs including the water reservoir 8 storing cooling water for the fuel cell battery 1 with the water supplied from outside of the fuel cell power generating system by controlling the control device 21. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a fuel cell power generation system, and more particularly, to a method for automatically filling a water reservoir related to power generation of a fuel cell.

  A fuel cell generates power by reacting a fuel and an oxidant. However, heat is generated along with electricity during this power generation. In order to generate electricity properly, it is necessary to maintain the fuel cell at an appropriate temperature.

Therefore, in a fuel cell, the fuel cell is usually cooled with cooling water. This cooling water is normally stored in a cooling water tank. Then, by flowing the cooling water through the circulation passage formed so as to include the cooling water reservoir, the fuel cell, and the heat radiating portion, heat is transmitted from the fuel cell to the cooling water, and this heat is cooled by the heat radiating portion. The fuel cell is released from water, thereby cooling the fuel cell (see, for example, Patent Document 1).
JP 2001-185166 A

  By the way, when the conventional fuel cell is installed, it is necessary to fill the cooling water tank (and the cooling water circulation passage) with water (hereinafter referred to as watering) before operating the fuel cell. This water filling was done manually. Therefore, it took time and effort.

  Further, in a fuel cell power generation system having a fuel processor, water recovered from unreacted fuel and oxidant discharged from the fuel cell (hereinafter referred to as recovered water) is stored in a recovered water tank, and this is stored in the fuel processor. Is supplied as water for reforming and supplied to the cooling water tank as cooling water.

  Furthermore, the fuel cell cogeneration system includes a hot water storage tank that stores hot water (hereinafter referred to as hot water storage) heated by heat exchange with cooling water.

  When a fuel cell power generation system or a fuel cell cogeneration system having such a fuel processor is installed, it is necessary to add water to the recovered water tank, the recovered water supply channel, the hot water storage tank, and the hot water circulation channel. There was more work.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a fuel cell power generation system capable of filling water without taking time and effort in a water reservoir related to power generation.

  In order to solve the above problems, a fuel cell power generation system according to the present invention includes a fuel cell that generates power by reacting a fuel and an oxidant, and a water storage that stores water that is water related to power generation of the fuel cell. And a control device, wherein the fuel cell power generation system includes the water reservoir including a cooling water reservoir that stores cooling water of the fuel cell under the control of the control device. It has a water filling mode that is filled with water from the outside of the fuel cell power generation system.

  The fuel cell power generation system includes, as the water reservoir, a recovered water reservoir that stores recovered water recovered from at least one of the unreacted fuel and oxidant discharged from the fuel cell. A water reservoir may be filled with water from the outside in the water filling mode.

  The recovered water reservoir is configured to be capable of supplying water from outside the fuel cell power generation system, and the cooling water reservoir is configured to be capable of supplying recovered water from the recovered water reservoir to the control. In the water filling mode, the apparatus supplies the water from the outside to the recovered water reservoir, and the fuel cell power generation system is configured to sequentially fill the recovered water reservoir and the cooling water reservoir with the supplied water. You may control.

  The fuel cell power generation system includes: a first pump that circulates the cooling water through a circulation path including the fuel cell and the cooling water reservoir; and the recovered water from the recovered water reservoir to the cooling water reservoir. The control device may activate the first pump after a predetermined time has elapsed since the activation of the second pump in the water filling mode. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the first pump from being idle.

  In the water filling mode, the control device may activate the second pump after a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of water supply from the outside to the recovered water reservoir.

  The fuel cell power generation system includes, as the water reservoir, a heat utilization water reservoir that stores heat utilization water that uses heat transferred from the cooling water through heat exchange, and the water utilization reservoir in the water filling mode. May be filled with water from the outside.

  The water reservoir includes a recovered water reservoir that stores recovered water recovered from at least one of the unreacted fuel and oxidant discharged from the fuel cell, and the heat-utilized water reservoir includes It is comprised so that water can be supplied from the outside of the fuel cell power generation system, the recovered water reservoir is configured to be able to supply heat utilization water from the heat utilization water reservoir, and the cooling water The reservoir is configured to be able to supply recovered water from the recovered water reservoir, and the control device supplies water from the outside to the heat-utilized water reservoir in the water filling mode, and supplies the supplied water. The fuel cell power generation system may be controlled so as to sequentially fill the heat utilization water reservoir, the recovered water reservoir, and the cooling water reservoir.

  A heat utilization water circulation path configured to return to the heat utilization water reservoir after the heat utilization water exits the heat utilization water reservoir and exchanges heat with the cooling water, and the heat utilization water reservoir and the heat utilization Air venting means for venting air from the circulation path, and the control device is configured to remove the air vent means when the heat-utilizing water reservoir and the heat-utilizing circulation path are filled with water from the outside in the water filling mode. The fuel cell power generation system may be controlled so as to extract air from the heat-use water reservoir and the heat-use circulation path.

  The fuel cell power generation system includes a water filling operation unit for starting the water filling mode, and the control device controls the fuel cell power generation system to start the water filling mode when the water filling operation unit is operated. You may control.

  The fuel cell power generation system may include a water filling switch as the water filling operation unit, and the control device may start the water filling mode when the water filling switch is turned on.

  The fuel cell power generation system includes a display unit and an information input unit, and the control device causes the display unit to display the necessity of the water filling mode, and information indicating that the water filling mode is necessary from the information input unit. May be entered, the water filling mode may be started.

The fuel cell power generation system has power supply detection means for detecting power supply to the fuel cell power generation system,
The control device may control the fuel cell power generation system to start the water filling mode when the supply of the power supply is detected.

  The power supply detection unit may be a power switch that supplies and shuts off power to the fuel cell power generation system, and the control device may start the water filling mode when the power switch is turned on.

  The fuel cell power generation system includes a power generation operation unit for starting operation for the power generation, and the control device is configured to start the water filling mode when the power generation operation unit is operated. The power generation system may be controlled.

  The control device may control the fuel cell power generation system to start the operation for power generation after the water filling mode ends.

  The fuel cell power generation system has storage means for storing the operation history of the fuel cell, and the control device is in the stored operation history when receiving an instruction to perform the power generation. The fuel cell power generation system may be controlled to start the water filling mode when a predetermined period has elapsed since the last stop of the operation of the fuel cell.

  The fuel cell power generation system includes a water level detector that detects a water level of the water reservoir, and the control device receives the instruction to perform the power generation, and the detected water level is a predetermined water level. The water filling mode for controlling the fuel cell power generation system to start the water filling mode may be started as follows.

  The control device may control the fuel cell power generation system so as not to start the operation for power generation during the water filling mode.

  The present invention has the configuration described above, and in the fuel cell power generation system, there is an effect that it is possible to fill water without taking time and effort to a water reservoir related to power generation.

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
(Embodiment 1)
FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram schematically showing the configuration of the fuel cell power generation system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the fuel cell power generation system according to the present embodiment is roughly divided into hardware and a control system. First, the hardware will be described.

  The fuel cell power generation system of the present embodiment is configured by a cogeneration system, and includes a fuel cell 1, a reactive gas supply and discharge system 201, a cooling system 202, and a heat utilization system 203.

  First, the fuel cell 1 and the reactive gas supply / discharge system 201 will be described. The fuel cell 1 has an anode and a cathode (not shown). The fuel cell 1 is composed of, for example, a polymer electrolyte fuel cell. Fuel gas (fuel) is supplied from the fuel processor 22 to the anode of the fuel cell 1 through the fuel supply path 41. The fuel processor 22 has a reformer (not shown), and reforms a raw material made of natural gas or the like supplied from the outside with water to generate a hydrogen-rich reformed gas, which is converted into a fuel gas. Supply as. In addition, a combustor 23 made of, for example, a burner is disposed in the fuel processor 22, and heat necessary for reforming the raw material is supplied to the reforming unit by combustion of fuel in the combustor 23.

  On the other hand, air as the oxidant gas is supplied to the cathode of the fuel cell 1 through the oxidant gas supply channel 43. Then, the fuel gas and air supplied to the anode and the cathode respectively react with each other through the catalyst to generate electricity and heat. Thereby, the fuel cell 1 generates electric power. The remaining fuel gas that has not reacted at the anode is supplied as fuel from the fuel cell 1 to the combustor 23 of the fuel processor 22 through the fuel gas discharge passage 42. The remaining air that has not reacted at the cathode is discharged from the fuel cell 1 into the atmosphere through the oxidant gas discharge passage 44.

  A water collector 2 is provided in the middle of the fuel gas discharge channel 42 and the oxidant gas discharge channel 44. The water recovery unit 2 is constituted by a well-known condenser here, and the fuel gas and air are processed separately. The fuel gas and air that have flowed into the water recovery unit 2 from the fuel gas discharge channel 42 and the oxidant gas discharge channel 44, respectively, are cooled, whereby the water contained therein is condensed and separated from the fuel gas and air. To do. The fuel gas and air from which the water is separated flow out from the water recovery unit 2 to the fuel gas discharge passage 42 and the oxidant gas discharge passage 44, respectively. On the other hand, the separated water flows into the recovered water tank (recovered water reservoir) 3 as recovered water.

  The recovered water tank 3 stores this recovered water. The recovered water tank 3 is provided with a vent hole 3a, and its internal space communicates with the atmosphere. The recovered water tank 3 is provided with a second water level detector 13 for detecting the lower limit water level of the recovered water. Here, the second water level detector 13 includes an arm 13b whose base end is disposed on the inner surface of the recovered water tank 3 so as to be swingable within a predetermined angle range, and a float disposed at the distal end of the arm 13b. 13a and a position sensor (not shown) for detecting when the arm 13b swings to the upper limit position. Therefore, when the water level rises and the float 13a is submerged, the arm 13b swings to the upper limit position, a detection signal is output from the position sensor, and when the water level falls and the float 13a floats on the water surface, the arm 13b is moved to the upper limit position. Swinging down from the position, the detection signal of the position sensor disappears. That is, the second water level detector 13 detects whether or not the water level of the recovered water is within the lower limit based on whether or not the detection signal of the position sensor is output. Hereinafter, the swing of the arm 13b to the upper limit position is expressed as “the second water level detector 13 rises”, and the swing of the arm 13b downward from the upper limit position is referred to as “the second water level detector 13”. Is going down. " The detection signal of the second water level detector 13 (specifically, the detection signal of the position sensor) is input to the calculation unit 31 of the control device 21 described later. The recovered water stored in the recovered water tank 3 is supplied as reforming water to the reforming section of the fuel processor 22 by the reforming water supply pump 29.

  Next, the cooling system 202 will be described. The cooling system 202 has a cooling water tank (cooling water reservoir) 8. A cooling water supply passage 11 extending from the recovered water tank 3 is connected to the cooling water tank 8. The cooling water supply channel 11 is provided with a cooling water supply pump (second pump) 33 and a filter 28. The recovered water in the recovered water tank 3 is supplied to the cooling water tank 8 through the cooling water supply path 11 by the cooling water supply pump 33. At this time, the recovered water is purified by the filter 28.

  The cooling water tank 8 stores the recovered water supplied from the recovered water tank 3 as cooling water. The cooling water tank 8 is provided with a vent hole 8a, and its internal space communicates with the atmosphere. The cooling water tank 8 is provided with a first water level detector 12 that detects the lower limit water level of the cooling water. The first water level detector 12 has the same structure as the second water level detector 13. That is, the arm 12b whose base end is disposed on the inner surface of the cooling water tank 8 so as to be swingable within a predetermined angle range, the float 12a disposed at the tip of the arm 12b, and the arm 12a swing to the upper limit position. And a position sensor (not shown) for detecting this when it is moved. Therefore, when the water level rises and the float is submerged, the arm 12b swings to the upper limit position, a detection signal is output from the position sensor, and when the water level falls and the float 12a rises to the water surface, the arm 12b is moved to the upper limit position. The position sensor detection signal disappears. That is, the first water level detector 12 detects whether or not the coolant level is within the lower limit based on the presence or absence of the output of the detection signal of the position sensor. Hereinafter, the swing of the arm 12b to the upper limit position is expressed as “the first water level detector 12 rises”, and the swing of the arm 12b from the upper limit position is referred to as “the first water level detector 12”. Is going down. " The detection signal of the first water level detector 12 (specifically, the detection signal of the position sensor) is input to the calculation unit 31 of the control device 21 described later.

  A cooling water circulation passage 9 is formed in the cooling system 202 so as to extend from the outlet of the cooling water tank 8 through the fuel cell 1 to the inlet of the cooling water tank 8. A cooling water circulation pump (first pump) 4 is disposed in the forward path 9 a extending from the outlet of the cooling water tank 8 of the cooling water circulation channel 9 to the fuel cell 1. A heat exchanger 5 for exchanging heat with hot water stored later is disposed in a return path 9b extending from the fuel cell 1 to the inlet of the cooling water tank 8 in the cooling water circulation path 9. In the return path 9b, a bypass 6 is formed so as to connect (bypass) portions located on both sides of the heat exchanger 5 of the return path 9b. A mixing valve 7 is disposed at a connection point between the bypass 6 and a portion of the return path 9b between the heat exchanger 5 and the cooling water tank 8. The mixing valve 7 has an opening to a port connected to the bypass 6 of the port connected to the return path 9a on the cooling water tank 8 side (hereinafter simply referred to as an opening on the bypass side), and a heat exchanger 5 of the same port. It is comprised so that the ratio with the opening degree (henceforth only the opening degree by the side of a heat exchanger) to the port connected to can be adjusted. Therefore, by changing the ratio of the opening degree on the bypass side of the mixing valve 7 and the opening degree on the heat exchanger side, the portion of the cooling water flowing in the forward path 9b passes through the heat exchanger 5 and the bypass 6. You can change the ratio with the part to be. Thereby, the heat dissipation amount by the heat exchanger 5 of the cooling water flowing through the forward path 9b can be adjusted to adjust the temperature of the cooling water.

  Next, the heat utilization system 203 will be described. The heat utilization system 203 has a hot water storage tank (heat utilization water reservoir) 14. In this embodiment, the hot water storage tank 14 employs a stacked boiling system. That is, an outlet for hot water (heat utilization water) is formed at the lower part of the hot water storage tank 14, and an inlet for hot water is formed at the upper part of the hot water storage tank 14. A hot water circulation channel 35 extending from the outlet of the hot water storage tank 14 to the inlet of the hot water storage tank 14 through the heat exchanger 5 is formed. A hot water circulation pump 34 is disposed in an outward path 35 a extending from the outlet of the hot water tank 35 of the hot water circulation channel 35 to the heat exchanger 5. Further, an external water pipe 36 for introducing water from the outside (hereinafter referred to as external water (here, city water)) is connected to the lower end portion of the hot water storage tank 14. 39 is disposed. Further, a hot water supply pipe 37 is connected to the upper end of the hot water storage tank 14.

  An air vent valve 24 is disposed on the hot water storage tank 14. The air vent valve 24 has a container-like case 24a. An introduction pipe 24b is connected to the bottom of the case 24a, and a discharge pipe 24c is connected to the top of the case 24a. A plate-shaped valve seat 27 is disposed so as to cross the inside of the case 24a with an opening in the center, and a valve body 26 disposed on the float 25 is disposed below the valve seat 27. Has been. The leading end of the introduction pipe 24 b is connected to the hot water storage tank 14. Therefore, in the air vent valve 24, the valve body 26 is separated from the valve seat 27 in a state in which air flows from the introduction pipe 24 b into the case 24 a, and the introduced air passes through the opening of the valve seat 27. And discharged from the discharge pipe 24c. When water flows into the case 24a from the introduction pipe 24b, the valve body 26 is seated on the valve seat 27 by the buoyancy of the float 25, and the inside (the introduction pipe 24b side) of the valve seat 27 is the outside (discharge pipe 24c). Sealed from the side). Thus, when the hot water storage tank 14 and the hot water circulation channel 35 are filled with water, the air in the hot water storage tank 14 and the hot water circulation channel 35 can be extracted through the air vent valve 24.

  A portion of the forward path 35 a of the hot water circulation channel 35 between the hot water circulation pump 34 and the outlet of the hot water tank 14 is connected to the recovered water tank 3 by an external water supply channel 61. An open / close valve 10 made of, for example, an electromagnetic valve is disposed in the outside water supply channel 61. By opening the on-off valve 10, it is possible to supply outside water from the hot water storage tank 14 to the recovered water tank 3 at the time of water filling described later.

  Next, the control system will be described.

  The fuel cell power generation system includes a control device 21, a power switch 51 that supplies and cuts off power supplied to the fuel cell power generation system, a water filling switch 52 that instructs water filling, which will be described later, and an operation switch 53 that instructs power generation. ing.

  Here, the control device 21 is constituted by a microcomputer, the arithmetic unit 31 is constituted by a CPU of the microcomputer, and the storage unit 32 is constituted by internal memories (RAM and ROM) of the microcomputer.

  Detection outputs of the first water level detector 12 and the second water level detector 13 are input to the calculation unit 31. Further, outputs of the power switch 51, the water filling switch 52, and the operation switch 53 are input to the calculation unit 31.

  On the other hand, the arithmetic unit 31 controls operations of the cooling water circulation pump 4, the cooling water supply pump 33, the hot water storage water circulation pump 34, the reforming water supply pump 29, the mixing valve 7, and the on-off valve 10. In addition to this, a required state quantity of the fuel cell power generation system is detected and inputted to the calculation unit 31. A program for controlling various operations of the fuel cell power generation system is stored in the storage unit 32. The arithmetic unit 31 reads out a required program from the storage unit 32 and executes the program, thereby executing the fuel. Controls various operations of the battery power generation system. This control is performed by performing a necessary process based on the detected state quantity and outputting a necessary control signal based on the process.

  Here, in this specification, a control device means not only a single control device but also a control device group in which a plurality of control devices cooperate to execute control. Therefore, the control device 21 does not necessarily need to be composed of a single control device, and a plurality of control devices are distributed and configured to control the operation of the fuel cell power generation system in cooperation with each other. May be.

  Next, the operation of the fuel cell power generation system configured as described above will be described. The fuel cell power generation system has an operation mode for performing normal power generation and a water filling mode as operation modes.

  First, the operation mode will be described.

  In FIG. 1, when the power switch 51 is turned ON, the fuel cell power generation system supplies power to a required part, and a required standby operation is performed. The main plug 39 of the outside water pipe 36 is always open when the fuel cell power generation system is used.

  Next, when the operation switch is turned on, the following operation mode is performed. In addition, about the operation mode, the outline | summary is demonstrated only about the part relevant to this invention.

  In the fuel cell 1 and the reaction gas supply / discharge system 201, a fuel gas composed of the reformed gas is generated by the fuel processor 22, and this fuel gas is supplied to the anode of the fuel cell 1. Air is supplied to the cathode of the fuel cell 1. In the fuel cell 1, the supplied fuel gas and air react through a catalyst to generate power. At this time, heat is also generated. Unreacted fuel gas and air are discharged from the fuel cell 1, and in the process, water contained in each is collected by the water collector 2 by condensation. This recovered water is stored in the recovered water tank 3.

  In the cooling system 202, the cooling water in the cooling water tank 8 is circulated by the cooling liquid circulation pump 4, and the cooling water receives heat from the fuel cell 1 and gives this heat to the hot water storage by heat exchange in the heat exchanger 5. At this time, the ratio between the opening degree on the bypass side of the mixing valve 7 and the opening degree on the heat exchanger side is appropriately adjusted. As a result, the fuel cell 1 is maintained at an appropriate temperature, and the temperature of the stored hot water is raised.

  In the heat utilization system 203, the hot water is circulated by the hot water circulation pump 34, and the hot water discharged from the outlet of the hot water tank 14 is heated by the heat exchanger 5 by receiving heat from the cooling water through heat exchange. The stored hot water returns to the inlet of the hot water storage tank 14 and is stored in the hot water storage tank 14. As a result, the heat generated in the fuel cell 1 is recovered and stored in the hot water storage tank 14 as thermal energy.

  On the other hand, the hot water stored in the hot water storage tank 14 is used by the user through the hot water supply pipe 37. When the hot water stored in the hot water storage tank 14 decreases due to the use of the user, the city water is replenished from the outside water pipe 36. Thereby, the thermal energy accumulated in the hot water storage tank 14 is effectively used.

  When the first water level detector 12 of the cooling water tank 8 is lowered and it is detected that the water level is below the lower limit, the cooling water supply pump 33 is activated to cool the recovered water in the recovered water tank 3. Supply to water tank 8. Further, when the second water level detector 13 of the recovered water tank 3 is lowered and it is detected that the water level is below the lower limit, the on-off valve 10 is opened, and the hot water storage tank 14 and the hot water circulation channel are opened by the water pressure. The city water is supplied from the external water pipe 36 to the recovered water tank 3 via the 35 forward paths 35 a and the external water supply flow path 61.

  Then, when the operation switch 53 is turned OFF, the above operation is stopped, and thereby the operation mode ends.

  Next, the water filling mode characterizing the present invention will be described. Immediately after the fuel cell power generation system is installed, the cooling water tank 8, the recovered water tank 3, and the hot water storage tank 14 are empty. Further, the cooling water circulation passage 9, the cooling water supply passage 11, and the hot water circulation passage 35 are also empty. Therefore, it is necessary to fill water before operating the fuel cell power generation system. Even when the fuel cell power generation system is not used for a long period of time, there is a case where the water in the above-mentioned location is deficient due to water evaporation or the like. Therefore, in such a case, in the present embodiment, automatic water filling is performed on these portions.

  FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing an outline of the control program for the water filling mode in the fuel cell power generation system of FIG. 1, and FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the contents of the control program for the water filling mode of FIG.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the water filling control program is stored in the storage unit 32 of the control device 21, and is read and executed by the calculation unit 31. Thereby, the water filling mode is performed in the fuel cell power generation system.

  In the present embodiment, first, the main plug 39 of the external water pipe 36 is manually opened prior to the automatic water filling, whereby external water is introduced into the hot water storage tank 14 from the external water pipe 36, and water is supplied to the hot water storage tank 14. Is stretched.

  When the power switch 51 is turned on, the calculation unit 31 waits for the water filling switch 52 to be turned on (step S1). When the water filling switch 52 is turned on, the water filling mode is controlled (step S101).

  More specifically, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, when the water filling switch 52 is turned on, the calculation unit 31 opens the on-off valve 10 (step S2). As a result, the external water is supplied from the hot water storage tank 14 to the recovered water tank 3 by the water pressure through the forward path 35a of the hot water storage circulation path 35 and the external water supply flow path 61, and the water level rises.

  Next, the calculation unit 31 stands by until the second water level detector 13 of the recovered water tank 3 rises (step S3). And if the 2nd water level detector 13 raises by the raise of the water level of the collection | recovery water tank 3, the calculator 31 will perform the control of the step after step S4, and the control of the step after step S15 in parallel.

  First, steps after step S4 will be described.

  In step S4, the calculation unit 31 operates the cooling water supply pump 33. Thereby, external water is supplied from the recovered water tank 3 to the cooling water tank 8, and the water level rises. In step S3 described above, after the second water level detector 13 has risen (the water level in the recovered water tank 3 has reached the lower limit water level), the cooling water supply pump 33 is operated in this manner, thereby cooling water. It is possible to reliably prevent the supply pump 33 from being blown (introduction of air into the pump).

Next, the calculation unit 31 stands by until the first liquid level detector 12 of the cooling water tank 3 rises (step S5). And if the 1st water level detector 12 raises by the raise of the water level of the cooling water tank 3, the calculating part 31 will progress to step S6. At this time, the filling of the cooling water tank is completed.

  In step S <b> 6, the calculation unit 31 operates the cooling water circulation pump 4 and sets the count N to 1. Thereby, outside water is introduced into the cooling water circulation passage 9. In step S5 described above, after the first water level detector 12 has risen (the water level in the cooling water tank 8 has reached the lower limit water level), the cooling water circulation pump 4 is operated in this way, thereby cooling water. It is possible to surely prevent the supply pump 4 from being idle.

  Next, the calculation unit 31 fully opens the opening on the bypass side of the mixing valve 7 (step S7). Thereby, outside water is introduced into the bypass 6.

  Next, the calculation unit 31 fully opens the opening degree of the mixing valve 7 on the heat exchanger side (step S8). Thereby, external water is introduce | transduced into the part (including the heat exchanger 5) bypassed by the bypass 9 of a cooling water circulation flow path.

  Next, the calculation unit 31 determines whether or not the count N is 3 (step S9). Here, since it is “No”, the count N is incremented by 1 (step S14), and then the process proceeds through steps S7 and S8. Return to S9. Further, the process returns to step S9 through steps S14, 7, and 8. Then, since the count N is 3, it progresses to step S10. While the count N is incremented, the cooling water circulation passage 9 is filled with water. In other words, the cooling water circulation passage 9 is vented.

  In step S10, the calculating part 31 fully opens the opening degree of the bypass side of the mixing valve 7 (step S10). This is because the fuel cell 1 is warmed up when the fuel cell power generation system is started in the operation mode, so that the cooling water exchanges heat with the hot water and prevents heat from being taken away.

  Subsequently, the calculating part 31 stops the cooling water circulation pump 4 (step S11).

  Subsequently, the calculating part 31 closes the on-off valve 10 (step S12). Thereby, the water filling of the cooling water circulation passage 9, that is, the air venting is completed.

  Next, the calculation unit 31 waits for the hot water circulating pump 34 controlled in parallel to stop (step S13).

  Then, when the hot water circulation pump 34 stops, the control of the water filling mode is terminated.

  Next, the control after step S15 will be described.

  In step S15, the calculating part 31 operates the hot water circulating pump 34. As a result, outside water is introduced into the hot water circulation channel 35.

  Next, the calculating unit 31 waits for 5 minutes to elapse after the hot water circulating pump 34 is actuated (step S16).

  Then, when 5 minutes have elapsed after the hot water circulating pump 34 is operated, the hot water circulating pump 34 is stopped (step S17). Thereby, the water filling of the hot water storage water circulation passage 34, that is, the air venting is completed. The hot water storage tank 14 is filled with water by opening the main plug 39 of the external water pipe 36. Further, when the hot water storage circulation path 35 is filled with water, air is released from the air vent valve 24 of the hot water storage tank 14.

  Subsequently, the calculating part 31 waits for the cooling water circulation pump 4 currently controlled in parallel to stop (step S18).

  And if the cooling water circulation pump 4 stops, control of water filling mode will be complete | finished.

  In this way, automatic water filling is performed.

  Next, the relationship between the operation mode and the water filling mode will be described. In the present embodiment, the operation mode and the water filling mode are controlled separately, but the calculation unit 31 gives priority to the water filling mode, and when the operation switch 53 is turned on while performing the water filling mode, After performing the water filling mode, the fuel cell power generation system is controlled to perform the operation mode.

  In step S6, the cooling water circulation pump 4 may be activated after a predetermined time has elapsed since the activation of the cooling water supply pump 33 in step S4 in order to reliably prevent the cooling water circulation pump 4 from being idle.

  Further, the opening and closing of the main plug 39 of the external water pipe 36 is controlled by the calculation unit 31 and the main plug 39 of the external water pipe 36 is first opened in the water filling mode (step S101) of FIG. May be configured to be performed automatically.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, water filling can be performed automatically, so that water filling can be performed without taking time and effort.
(Embodiment 2)
FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram schematically showing the configuration of the fuel cell power generation system according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention, and FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an outline of the control program for the water filling mode in the fuel cell power generation system of FIG. . 4, the same reference numerals as those in FIG. 1 denote the same or corresponding parts. In FIG. 5, the same reference numerals as those in FIG. 2 denote the same or corresponding steps.

  As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the present embodiment is different from the first embodiment in the operation that triggers the start of the water filling mode. The other points are the same as in the first embodiment.

  That is, in the present embodiment, the water filling switch 52 of the first embodiment is omitted. In the present embodiment, when a fuel cell power generation system is installed and a cord (not shown) for connecting to a power source is inserted into an outlet, the calculation unit 31 of the control device 21 turns on the power switch 51 for the first time. (Step S20). When the power switch 51 is turned on, the water filling mode is controlled (step S101). The calculation unit 31 stores the first power switch ON in the storage unit 32, and does not control the water filling mode even if the power switch 51 is turned on next time.

According to the present embodiment configured as described above, water filling is automatically performed only by first turning on the power switch 51, so that the trouble of turning on the water filling switch 52 as in the first embodiment can be saved. Can do.
(Embodiment 3)
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an outline of a control program for the water filling mode in the fuel cell power generation system according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. 6, the same reference numerals as those in FIG. 2 denote the same or corresponding steps.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the present embodiment is different from the second embodiment in the operation that triggers the start of the water filling mode. Other points are the same as in the second embodiment.

  That is, the hardware of the fuel cell power generation system of the present embodiment is the same as that of the second embodiment (FIG. 4). On the other hand, in the control of the fuel cell power generation system, when the power switch 51 is turned on, the calculation unit 31 waits for the operation switch 53 to be turned on (step S31). When the operation switch 53 is turned on, the water filling mode is controlled (step S101).

  When the water filling mode ends, the operation mode described in the first embodiment is controlled (step S102).

According to the present embodiment configured as described above, water filling is performed automatically only by turning on the operation switch 53, so that the trouble of turning on the water filling switch 52 as in the first embodiment can be saved. it can.
(Embodiment 4)
FIG. 7 is a functional block diagram schematically showing the configuration of the fuel cell power generation system according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention, and FIG. 8 shows an outline of the control program for the water filling mode in the fuel cell power generation system of FIG. It is a flowchart. 7, the same reference numerals as those in FIG. 1 denote the same or corresponding parts. In FIG. 8, the same reference numerals as those in FIG. 2 denote the same or corresponding steps.

  As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the present embodiment is different from the first embodiment in the operation that triggers the start of the water filling mode. The other points are the same as in the first embodiment.

  That is, in the present embodiment, the water filling switch 52 of the first embodiment is omitted, and a display device 54 and an information input unit 55 are provided instead. The information input means 55 is composed of a known information input device such as a keyboard and a mouse, converts information into a data signal and inputs the data signal to the calculation unit 31. The display device 54 is configured by a display unit such as a liquid crystal panel, and performs display according to a display signal output from the calculation unit 31.

  In the present embodiment, after the power switch is turned on, the calculation unit 31 waits for the operation switch 53 to be turned on (step S31).

  Then, when the operation switch 53 is turned on, the necessity of water filling is displayed on the display device 54 (step S41).

  Next, the calculation unit 31 waits for input of necessity of water filling (step S42). This input is displayed, for example, by a well-known technique by the calculation unit 31 displaying water filling “necessary” and “no” input buttons on the display screen of the display device 54 and the user operating the information input means 55. This is done by moving the cursor on the screen and clicking the “necessary” or “no” input button.

  And if the necessity of water filling is input, the calculating part 31 will determine whether the input is "required" (step S43).

  If the input is “NO”, the calculation unit 31 starts operation (step S102).

  On the other hand, if the input is “necessary”, the calculation unit 31 controls the water filling mode (step S101), and then starts operation (step S102).

According to this Embodiment comprised as mentioned above, after confirming a user's intention, a water filling mode can be performed according to the intention.
(Embodiment 5)
FIG. 9 is a functional block diagram schematically showing the configuration of the fuel cell power generation system according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention, and FIG. 10 shows an outline of a control program related to the water filling mode in the fuel cell power generation system of FIG. It is a flowchart. 9, the same reference numerals as those in FIG. 1 denote the same or corresponding parts. In FIG. 10, the same reference numerals as those in FIG. 2 denote the same or corresponding steps.

  The present embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the water filling mode is performed based on the operation history of the fuel cell. The other points are the same as in the first embodiment. Hereinafter, differences from the first embodiment will be specifically described.

  As shown in FIG. 9, in this embodiment, the water filling switch 52 of the first embodiment is omitted. In addition, the control device 21 includes a clock 38. Here, the timepiece 38 is constituted by a clock built in the microcomputer. The output of the clock 38 is input to the calculation unit 31.

  Next, the operation of the fuel cell power generation system configured as described above will be described.

  9 and 10, in the present embodiment, it is assumed that water filling is performed manually after the fuel cell power generation system is installed.

  First, the calculation unit 31 waits for the power switch 51 to be turned on (step S21).

  When the power switch 51 is turned on, either the operation switch 53 is turned on or the power switch 51 is turned off (steps S22 and S30).

  When the operation switch 53 is turned on, the calculation unit 31 acquires the current time from the clock 38 (step S23).

  Subsequently, the calculating part 31 reads and acquires a driving history from the memory | storage part 32 (step S24). This driving history consists of a record of the driving stop time in a period retroactive to the past from the present time. Of course, this operation history may be configured by recording only the previous stop time.

  Next, the computing unit 31 collates the current time with the operation history, and determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed from the last stop in the operation history to the current time (step S25). The predetermined time is selected such that the water level falls below the lower limit due to evaporation of water in the cooling water tank 8 or the recovered water tank 3. For example, considering the long-term absence of a general household, the predetermined time is set to 150 hours (about one type).

  When the predetermined time has elapsed, the water filling mode is controlled (step S101), and then the operation mode is controlled (step S26).

  On the other hand, if the predetermined time has not elapsed, the operation mode is immediately controlled (step S26).

  Next, when the operation switch is turned off, the calculation unit 31 stops the operation (steps S27 and S28).

  Next, the calculation unit 31 acquires the current time from the clock 38 and writes the operation stop time in the operation history of the storage unit 32 (step S29). If the operation history consists only of the previous stop time, the current stop time is overwritten on the previous stop time.

  Next, the calculation unit 31 returns to steps S22 and S30, performs the above-described control when the operation switch 53 is turned on, and ends this control when the power switch 51 is turned off (step S30).

As described above, in this embodiment, water filling is automatically performed based on the operation history, so it is not necessary to manually check whether or not water filling is necessary, and the labor can be saved. Further, water filling is automatically performed as necessary before driving, so that driving safety can be ensured.
(Embodiment 6)
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an outline of a control program for the water filling mode in the fuel cell power generation system according to Embodiment 6 of the present invention. 11, the same reference numerals as those in FIG. 2 denote the same or corresponding parts.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the present embodiment is different from the first embodiment in the operation that triggers the start of the water filling mode. The other points are the same as in the first embodiment.

  That is, when the power switch is turned on, the calculation unit 31 waits for the operation switch 53 to be turned on (step S31).

  When the operation switch is turned on, the calculation unit 31 determines whether one of the first and second water level detectors 12 and 13 is lowered.

  If any of the first and second water level detectors 12 and 13 is not lowered, the calculation unit 31 immediately controls the operation mode (step S102). This is because it is not necessary to perform water filling.

  On the other hand, when one of the first and second water level detectors 12 and 13 is lowered, the water filling mode is controlled (step S101), and then the operation mode is controlled (step S102).

  According to the present embodiment configured as described above, water filling is automatically performed based on the operation history, so it is not necessary to manually check whether or not water filling is necessary, and the labor can be saved. it can. Further, water filling is automatically performed as necessary before driving, so that driving safety can be ensured.

  In the first to sixth embodiments, the fuel cell 1 is described as being a polymer electrolyte type, but other types of fuel cells may be used.

  Moreover, although the said Embodiment 1-6 demonstrated the case where the fuel cell electric power generation system was a cogeneration system, this invention is applicable similarly to a monogeneration system.

  Moreover, although the said Embodiment 1-6 demonstrated the case where a fuel cell electric power generation system had a fuel processor, this invention is applicable similarly when not having a fuel processor.

  In the second embodiment, a power supply detection unit for detecting supply of power supply is provided, and the calculation unit 31 does not turn on the power switch 51 for the first time, but detects the supply of power supply from the power supply detection unit. When the signal is received, the water filling mode (step S101) may be controlled.

  In the first to fifth embodiments, for example, an electromagnetic valve may be used instead of the air vent valve 24. In this case, water may be applied with the solenoid valve opened, and the timing at which the fluid flowing out of the solenoid valve changes from air to water is appropriately detected or predicted, and the solenoid valve is closed at that timing.

  The fuel cell power generation system of the present invention is useful as a fuel cell power generation system for home use, electric vehicles, etc. capable of automatic water filling.

It is a functional block diagram which shows typically the structure of the fuel cell power generation system which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the outline | summary of the control program of the water filling mode in the fuel cell power generation system of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the control program of the water filling mode of FIG. It is a functional block diagram which shows typically the structure of the fuel cell power generation system which concerns on Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the outline | summary of the control program of the water filling mode in the fuel cell power generation system of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the outline | summary of the control program of the water filling mode in the fuel cell power generation system which concerns on Embodiment 3 of this invention. It is a functional block diagram which shows typically the structure of the fuel cell power generation system which concerns on Embodiment 4 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the outline | summary of the control program of the water filling mode in the fuel cell power generation system of FIG. It is a functional block diagram which shows typically the structure of the fuel cell power generation system which concerns on Embodiment 5 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the outline | summary of the control program regarding the water filling mode in the fuel cell power generation system of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the outline | summary of the control program of the water filling mode in the fuel cell power generation system which concerns on Embodiment 6 of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Fuel cell 2 Water recovery device 3 Recovery water tank 3a Vent hole 4 Cooling water circulation pump 5 Heat exchanger 6 Bypass 7 Mixing valve 8 Cooling water tank 8a Vent hole 9 Cooling water circulation channel 9a Outward path 9b Return path 10 On-off valve 11 Cooling water supply Flow path 12 First water level detector 13 Second water level detector 14 Hot water storage tank 21 Control device 22 Fuel processor 23 Combustor 24 Air vent valve 24a Case 24b Introduction pipe 24c Discharge pipe 25 Float 26 Valve body 27 Valve seat 28 Filter 29 Reformed Water Supply Pump 31 Computing Unit 32 Storage Unit 33 Cooling Water Supply Pump 34 Hot Water Circulation Pump 35 Hot Water Circulation Channel 35a Outward Route 36 External Water Pipe 37 Hot Water Supply Pipe 38 Clock 39 Main Plug 41 Fuel Gas Supply Channel 42 Fuel Gas Discharge Flow Channel 43 Oxidant gas supply channel 44 Oxidant gas discharge channel 51 Power switch 52 Water filling switch 53 Operation switch 54 display device 55 the information input unit 61 external water supply passage 201 reactive gas supply and discharge system 202 cooling system 203 heat utilization system

Claims (18)

In a fuel cell power generation system comprising: a fuel cell that generates power by reacting a fuel and an oxidant; a water reservoir that stores water related to power generation of the fuel cell; and a control device.
The fuel cell power generation system has a water filling mode in which the water reservoir including a cooling water reservoir that stores cooling water of the fuel cell is controlled by the control device to be filled with water from outside the fuel cell power generation system. Fuel cell power generation system.   The water reservoir includes a recovered water reservoir that stores recovered water recovered from at least one of the unreacted fuel and oxidant discharged from the fuel cell, and the recovered water reservoir is in the water filling mode. The fuel cell power generation system according to claim 1, wherein the fuel cell power generation system is filled with water from the outside. The recovered water reservoir is configured to be able to supply water from outside the fuel cell power generation system, and the cooling water reservoir is configured to be able to supply recovered water from the recovered water reservoir to this,
In the water filling mode, the control device supplies water from the outside to the recovered water reservoir, and sequentially fills the recovered water reservoir and the cooling water reservoir with the supplied water. The fuel cell power generation system according to claim 2, wherein the system is controlled. A first pump for circulating the cooling water through a circulation path including the fuel cell and the cooling water reservoir; a second pump for supplying the recovered water from the recovered water reservoir to the cooling water reservoir; Have
4. The fuel cell power generation system according to claim 3, wherein the control device activates the first pump after a predetermined time has elapsed since the activation of the second pump in the water filling mode.   5. The fuel cell power generation system according to claim 4, wherein, in the water filling mode, the control device starts the second pump after elapse of a predetermined time from the start of water supply from the outside to the recovered water reservoir.   The water reservoir includes a heat-utilized water reservoir that stores heat-utilized water that uses heat transferred by heat exchange from the cooling water, and the heat-utilized water reservoir is water from the outside in the water filling mode. The fuel cell power generation system of claim 1, wherein the fuel cell power generation system is satisfied. The water reservoir includes a recovered water reservoir that stores recovered water recovered from at least one of the unreacted fuel and oxidant discharged from the fuel cell;
The heat use water reservoir is configured to be able to supply water from outside the fuel cell power generation system, and the recovered water reservoir supplies heat use water to the heat use water reservoir. And the cooling water reservoir is configured to be able to supply recovered water from the recovered water reservoir,
In the water filling mode, the control device supplies water from the outside to the heat utilization water reservoir, and the heat utilization water reservoir, the recovered water reservoir, and the cooling water reservoir by the supplied water. The fuel cell power generation system according to claim 6, wherein the fuel cell power generation system is controlled so as to satisfy the following. A heat utilization water circulation path configured to return to the heat utilization water reservoir after the heat utilization water comes out of the heat utilization water reservoir and exchanges heat with the cooling water, the heat utilization water reservoir, and the Air venting means for venting air from the heat utilization circulation path,
In the water filling mode, the control device is configured to remove air from the heat-use water reservoir and the heat-use circulation path by the air vent when the heat-use water reservoir and the heat-use circulation path are filled with water from the outside. The fuel cell power generation system according to claim 6, wherein the fuel cell power generation system is controlled to remove A water filling operation unit for starting the water filling mode;
The fuel cell power generation system according to claim 1, wherein the control device controls the fuel cell power generation system to start the water filling mode when the water filling operation unit is operated. A water filling switch as the water filling operation unit;
The fuel cell power generation system according to claim 9, wherein the control device starts the water filling mode when the water filling switch is turned on. Display means and information input means,
The said control apparatus displays the necessity of the said water filling mode on the said display means, and if the information that the water filling mode is required is input from the said information input means, the said water filling mode will be started. Fuel cell power generation system. Power supply power supply detecting means for detecting supply of power to the fuel cell power generation system,
The fuel cell power generation system according to claim 1, wherein the control device controls the fuel cell power generation system to start the water filling mode when supply of the power supply is detected. The power supply detection means is a power switch for supplying and shutting off power to the fuel cell power generation system;
The fuel cell power generation system according to claim 12, wherein the control device starts the water filling mode when the power switch is turned on. A power generation operation unit for starting the operation for power generation;
The fuel cell power generation system according to claim 1, wherein the control device controls the fuel cell power generation system to start the water filling mode when the power generation operation unit is operated.   The fuel cell power generation system according to claim 14, wherein the control device controls the fuel cell power generation system to start an operation for power generation after the water filling mode ends. Storage means for storing an operation history of the fuel cell;
When receiving a command to perform the power generation, the control device starts the water filling mode when a predetermined period has elapsed since the last stop of the fuel cell in the stored operation history. The fuel cell power generation system according to claim 1, wherein the fuel cell power generation system is controlled to do so. Having a water level detector for detecting the water level of the water reservoir;
The control device controls the fuel cell power generation system to start the water filling mode when the detected water level is equal to or lower than a predetermined water level when receiving a command to perform the power generation. The fuel cell power generation system according to 1.   2. The fuel cell power generation system according to claim 1, wherein the control device controls the fuel cell power generation system so as not to start an operation for power generation during the water filling mode.

Images