Solid oxide fuel cell generator

Abstract

The present application provides a kind of solid oxide type fuel cell generator, is equipped with the solid oxide type fuel cell of even if not needing auxiliary power supply can start power generation generator.The solid oxide type fuel cell generator (11) is characterized in that, it is equipped with: the fuel cell part (26) of solid oxide type, carries out power generation using fuel gas and oxidizing gas;Oxidizing gas supply part (21), transports oxidizing gas to fuel cell part;Oxidizing gas supply path (16), imports oxidizing gas into fuel cell part;Fuel gas supply path (15), imports the fuel gas stored in gas container (12) into fuel cell part;Heating mechanism (17), carries out heating to fuel cell part using fuel gas;Thermoelectric power generation part (61), has the thermoelectric element (61c) heated by heating mechanism and carries out power generation based on the temperature difference generated between high temperature part (61a) and low temperature part (61b);And control unit (58), carries out the control of the power generated by thermoelectric element to oxidizing gas supply part.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to a power generator provided with a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC). BACKGROUND

[0002] A solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) generates electric power by an electrochemical reaction generated from continuously supplied fuel gas (hydrogen (H2), carbon monoxide (CO)) and oxidizing gas (air or the like containing oxygen (O2)). A fuel cell portion that generates electric power has an anode (fuel electrode) and a cathode (air electrode). A fuel gas supply path that supplies fuel gas is connected to the anode. An oxidizing gas supply path that supplies oxidizing gas is connected to the cathode.

[0003] A power system provided with a hybrid power generator and a control unit is disclosed in Patent Literature 1. The hybrid power generator includes a solid oxide fuel cell and a gas turbine. The gas turbine of the hybrid power generator described in Patent Literature 1 includes a turbine, a compressor, and a generator. The compressor compresses and discharges an introduced outside air and supplies the discharged air to the cathode of the solid oxide fuel cell. The generator functions as an electric motor at the time of starting the gas turbine, thereby starting the gas turbine. In this way, in the hybrid power generator described in Patent Literature 1, in order to start the supply of air to the cathode of the solid oxide fuel cell and start the power generation based on the solid oxide fuel cell, the compressor that supplies air to the cathode and an auxiliary power source, that is, an external power source that drives the generator (electric motor) are required.

[0004] However, in an outdoor place where a commercial power source is not supplied and a disaster site, and the like, an auxiliary power source is not always ensured. Therefore, for a power generator provided with a solid oxide fuel cell, it is desired that even in an outdoor place where a commercial power source is not supplied and a disaster site, and the like, the power required for charging an electric product such as a smartphone and a tablet terminal or an electric product such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode) illuminator can be started to be generated even without an auxiliary power source.

[0005] PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

[0006] PATENT LITERATURE

[0007] Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2009-187756 SUMMARY

[0008] PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0009] The present invention has been achieved in order to solve the above-described technical problem, and has an object to provide a solid oxide fuel cell generator capable of starting power generation even without an auxiliary power source.

[0010] Technical solution for solving the technical problem

[0011] The above-described technical problem can be solved by a solid oxide fuel cell generator according to the present invention, which is characterized by comprising: a fuel cell portion of a solid oxide type that generates power using a fuel gas and an oxidizing gas; an oxidizing gas supply portion that supplies the oxidizing gas to the fuel cell portion; an oxidizing gas supply path that introduces the oxidizing gas supplied from the oxidizing gas supply portion to the fuel cell portion; a fuel gas supply path that introduces the fuel gas stored in a gas container to the fuel cell portion; a heating mechanism that heats the fuel cell portion using the fuel gas introduced from the fuel gas supply path; a thermoelectric power generation portion that has a thermoelectric element heated by the heating mechanism and generates power based on a temperature difference generated between a high-temperature portion and a low-temperature portion; and a control portion that performs control to supply power generated by the thermoelectric element to the oxidizing gas supply portion.

[0012] According to the solid oxide fuel cell generator according to the present invention, the heating mechanism heats the fuel cell portion to a power generation start temperature using the fuel gas introduced from the fuel gas supply path. In addition, the thermoelectric power generation portion has a thermoelectric element heated by the heating mechanism and generates power based on a temperature difference generated between a high-temperature portion and a low-temperature portion. In addition, the control portion performs control to supply power generated by the thermoelectric element of the thermoelectric power generation portion to the oxidizing gas supply portion. Therefore, the oxidizing gas supply portion can start to be driven by being supplied with power generated by the thermoelectric element of the thermoelectric power generation portion heated by the heating mechanism even without an auxiliary power source such as a battery, and can supply the oxidizing gas to the fuel cell portion through the oxidizing gas supply path. Thus, the fuel cell portion can start to generate power using the fuel gas supplied from the gas container through the fuel gas supply path and the oxidizing gas supplied from the oxidizing gas supply portion through the oxidizing gas supply path even without an auxiliary power source such as a battery. In addition, since the auxiliary power source is no longer needed, the solid oxide fuel cell generator can be downsized.

[0013] In the solid oxide fuel cell generator according to the present invention, it is preferable that the fuel cell portion has a first cell module portion and a second cell module portion, the oxidizing gas supply portion has a first blower that supplies the oxidizing gas to the first cell module portion and a second blower that supplies the oxidizing gas to the second cell module portion, and the control portion performs control to supply power generated by the thermoelectric element only to the first blower.

[0014] According to the solid oxide fuel cell generator of the present application, the control section performs control to supply the electric power generated by the thermoelectric element of the thermoelectric power generation section only to the first air blower among the plurality of air blowers provided in the oxidizing gas supply section. In addition, the first air blower starts to be driven by being supplied with the electric power generated by the thermoelectric element of the thermoelectric power generation section, and supplies the oxidizing gas to the first cell module section among the plurality of cell module sections provided in the fuel cell section. In this way, the control section performs control to supply the electric power generated by the thermoelectric element of the thermoelectric power generation section not to all of the plurality of air blowers provided in the oxidizing gas supply section, but only to the first air blower. Therefore, after the thermoelectric element of the thermoelectric power generation section has just started to generate electric power, the oxidizing gas is not supplied to all of the plurality of cell module sections provided in the fuel cell section, but is supplied to the first cell module section. Then, the first cell module section to which the oxidizing gas is supplied starts to generate electric power. Therefore, the fuel cell section having the plurality of cell module sections can start to generate electric power in stages for each cell module section to which the oxidizing gas is started to be supplied. Thus, it is possible to utilize the electric power generated by the first cell module before the time when all of the cell module sections start to generate electric power. In addition, the first cell module section itself generates heat when it starts to generate electric power. It is possible to effectively utilize the heat generated by the self-heating of the first cell module section to heat the second cell module section. Thus, it is possible to shorten the start-up time or the work start time (i.e., the start time) before the fuel cell section starts to generate electric power, compared to the case where all of the cell module sections are heated simultaneously by the heating mechanism. In addition, it is possible to suppress the flow rate of the oxidizing gas and the heat of the heating mechanism required for the fuel cell section to start to generate electric power. Therefore, it is possible to realize the miniaturization of the oxidizing gas supply section and the heating mechanism, and to realize the miniaturization of the solid oxide fuel cell generator.

[0015] In the solid oxide fuel cell generator of the present application, it is preferable that the first cell module section generate electric power using the oxidizing gas supplied from the first air blower through the oxidizing gas supply path and the fuel gas supplied through the fuel gas supply path, and the control section perform control to supply the electric power generated by the first cell module section to the second air blower.

[0016] According to the solid oxide fuel cell generator of the present application, the first cell module section starts power generation using the oxidizing gas supplied from the first blower through the oxidizing gas supply path and the fuel gas supplied through the fuel gas supply path. In addition, the control section performs control to supply the electric power generated by the first cell module section that has started power generation to the second blower. Then, the second blower starts driving by being supplied with the electric power generated by the first cell module section that has started power generation, and supplies the oxidizing gas to the second cell module section. In this way, the control section supplies the electric power generated by the thermoelectric element of the thermoelectric power generation section only to the first blower to start power generation of the first cell module section, and supplies the electric power generated by the first cell module section that has started power generation to the second blower to start power generation of the second cell module section. Therefore, the fuel cell section having a plurality of cell module sections can start power generation in stages for each cell module section to which the oxidizing gas is started to be supplied. Thus, it is possible to shorten the startup time or the work start time (i.e., the start-up time) before the fuel cell section starts power generation. In addition, it is possible to suppress the flow rate of the oxidizing gas and the heat of the heating mechanism required for the fuel cell section to start power generation. Therefore, it is possible to achieve the miniaturization of the oxidizing gas supply section and the heating mechanism, and the miniaturization of the solid oxide fuel cell generator.

[0017] In the solid oxide fuel cell generator of the present application, it is preferable that the second cell module section be further heated by the heat generated by the power generation of the first cell module section, and perform power generation using the oxidizing gas supplied from the second blower through the oxidizing gas supply path and the fuel gas supplied through the fuel gas supply path.

[0018] According to the solid oxide fuel cell generator of the present application, the second cell module section is further heated by the heat generated by the power generation of the first cell module section, i.e., the heat generated by the self-heating of the first cell module section. That is, the second cell module section is heated by both the heating mechanism and the first cell module section. Thus, it is possible to further shorten the startup time or the work start time (i.e., the start-up time) before the fuel cell section starts power generation. Therefore, it is possible to further suppress the flow rate of the oxidizing gas and the heat of the heating mechanism required for the fuel cell section to start power generation. Thus, it is possible to achieve further miniaturization of the oxidizing gas supply section and the heating mechanism, and further miniaturization of the solid oxide fuel cell generator.

[0019] In the solid oxide fuel cell generator of the present application, it is preferable that the heating mechanism be a burner that burns the fuel gas introduced from the fuel gas supply path, and the thermoelectric power generation section be heated by the heat transferred from the flame emitted from the burner and the exhaust gas, and by the heat generated by the power generation of the fuel cell section.

[0020] According to the solid oxide fuel cell generator of the present application, the burner as the heating mechanism burns the fuel gas introduced from the fuel gas supply path. In addition, the thermoelectric power generation section is heated by the flame emitted from the burner and the heat transferred from the exhaust gas. Therefore, not only the waste heat, i.e., the unused heat energy, generated by the combustion of the burner can be used for the temperature rise of the fuel cell section, but also the temperature rise of the high-temperature section of the thermoelectric power generation section. Thus, the fuel gas utilization efficiency can be improved. In addition, for example, even when the burner stops combustion, the fuel cell section can maintain a high temperature by self-heating due to power generation at the time of starting power generation. In addition, the thermoelectric power generation section is heated by the heat generated by the power generation of the fuel cell section, i.e., the heat generated by self-heating of the fuel cell section. Therefore, the thermoelectric power generation section can continue to generate electric power by the thermoelectric element using the heat generated by the power generation of the fuel cell section. Thus, the heat generated by the power generation of the fuel cell section can be effectively utilized.

[0021] Effects of the Invention

[0022] According to the present application, a solid oxide fuel cell generator, i.e., a solid oxide fuel cell generator, which can start power generation even without an auxiliary power source, can be provided. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0023] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a solid oxide fuel cell generator according to the embodiment of the present application.

[0024] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the main part structure of the solid oxide fuel cell generator according to the embodiment of the present application.

[0025] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an outline of the operation of the solid oxide fuel cell generator according to the embodiment of the present application.

[0026] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing a specific example of the operation of the solid oxide fuel cell generator according to the embodiment of the present application.

[0027] Figure 5 is a timing chart showing a specific example of the operation of the solid oxide fuel cell generator according to the embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of the present application will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0029] Note that the following embodiments are preferred specific examples of the present application, and various limitations are added for technical preference, but the scope of the present application is not limited to these modes unless the limitations are specifically described in the following description. Also, in each drawing, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same components and detailed description is appropriately omitted.

[0030] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a solid oxide fuel cell generator according to the embodiment of the present application.

[0031] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing a main part structure of a solid oxide fuel cell generator according to the embodiment of the present application.

[0032] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an outline of an operation of a solid oxide fuel cell generator according to the embodiment of the present application.

[0033] The solid oxide fuel cell generator 11 according to the embodiment of the present application is a generator which uses a gas container 12 filled with a fuel gas mainly including butane gas or the like (hydrocarbon fuel), and which can be moved to a desired place to generate power at various times when power is required. In other words, the solid oxide fuel cell generator 11 according to the embodiment of the present application is a mobile generator which can be used in an outdoor place where a commercial power supply is not supplied, and in a disaster-stricken site or the like, using the fuel gas stored in the gas container 12.

[0034] As shown in Figures 1-3 , the solid oxide fuel cell generator 11 according to the embodiment of the present application includes a fuel cell section 26, an oxidizing gas supply section 21, an oxidizing gas supply path 16, a fuel gas supply path 15, a burner 17, a thermoelectric power generation section 61, and a control section 58. As shown in Figure 1 , the fuel cell section 26, the oxidizing gas supply section 21, the burner 17, the thermoelectric power generation section 61, and the control section 58 are provided on a frame 63.

[0035] The fuel cell section 26 is a solid oxide type fuel cell section which generates power by a fuel gas and an oxidizing gas. That is, the fuel cell section 26 has a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) which generates electric energy by an electrochemical reaction generated by a fuel gas (hydrogen (H2) and carbon monoxide (CO)) and an oxidizing gas (mixed gas containing oxygen (O2) such as air).

[0036] The fuel cell section 26 has a plurality of cell modules. As Figure 1As shown, the fuel cell unit 26 of this embodiment includes a first battery module 27a, a second battery module 27b, a third battery module 27c, and a fourth battery module 27d. Battery modules are also referred to as battery stacks, etc. It should be noted that the number of battery modules in the fuel cell unit 26 is not limited to four; it can be three or fewer, or five or more. In this embodiment, the example given is the case where the fuel cell unit 26 has four battery modules 27a, 27b, 27c, and 27d.

[0037] like Figure 2 As shown, each battery module 27a, 27b, 27c, and 27d has multiple batteries 13 as the smallest unit of the fuel cell section 26. The batteries 13 of the fuel cell section 26 have an anode (fuel electrode) 13a where an oxidation reaction occurs, a cathode (air electrode) 13b where a reduction reaction occurs, and an electrolyte 13c as an ion conductor. The anode 13a is connected to a fuel gas supply path 15. The cathode 13b is connected to an oxidation gas supply path 16. In the anode 13a, at least one of hydrogen (H2) and carbon monoxide (CO) is used as fuel. In the cathode 13b, air (oxygen) is used as an oxidant.

[0038] The oxidizing gas supply unit 21 is connected to the oxidizing gas supply path 16, and supplies oxidizing gas to the cathode 13b of the fuel cell unit 26 through the oxidizing gas supply path 16. The oxidizing gas supply unit 21 has multiple blowers. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the oxidizing gas supply unit 21 of this embodiment includes a first blower 21a and a second blower 21b. Examples of the first blower 21a and the second blower 21b include air pumps and fans. It should be noted that the number of blowers in the oxidizing gas supply unit 21 is not limited to two; it can be one or more.

[0039] like Figure 3As shown, the first blower 21a supplies oxidizing gas to the first battery module section 26a of the fuel cell section 26. The second blower 21b supplies oxidizing gas to the second battery module section 26b of the fuel cell section 26. In this specification, "battery module section" refers to a collection of one or more battery modules (in other words, a battery stack). For example, the first battery module section 26a may include only the first battery module 27a, or it may include the first battery module 27a and the second battery module 27b, or it may include the first battery module 27a, the second battery module 27b, and the third battery module 27c. Similarly, the second battery module section 26b may include the second battery module 27b, the third battery module 27c, and the fourth battery module 27d, or it may include the third battery module 27c and the fourth battery module 27d, or it may include only the fourth battery module 27d. Specific examples of the first battery module section 26a and the second battery module section 26b will be described later.

[0040] Oxidizing gas supply path 16 is a flow path connected to the cathode 13b of the oxidizing gas supply section 21 and the fuel cell section 26, and introduces the oxidizing gas supplied from the oxidizing gas supply section 21 into the cathode 13b of the fuel cell section 26.

[0041] The gas container 12 is, for example, a box-type gas cylinder containing compressed liquefied gas, which also contains fuel gas. The fuel gas ejected from the gas container 12 enters a container connection portion 64 (see reference 64). Figure 1 The internal regulator adjusts the pressure. It should be noted that when the gas container 12 is a box-type gas cylinder, the connection mechanism between the gas container 12 and the container connection 64 is magnetic. Therefore, when the gas cylinder is heated and the internal pressure rises abnormally, the safety mechanism activates, disconnecting the gas container 12 from the container connection 64.

[0042] The fuel gas supply path 15 is a flow path connected to the container connection 64 and the anode 13a of the fuel cell section 26, introducing fuel gases such as butane gas filled in the gas container 12 into the anode 13a of the fuel cell section 26. Specifically, as Figure 2 As shown, fuel gas supply path 15 introduces fuel gas into anode 13a via modifier 14. It should be noted that modifier 14 may not necessarily be provided. Figure 2 The solid oxide fuel cell generator 11 shown is an example of a generator equipped with a modifier 14 as an auxiliary device.

[0043] The reformer 14 has a reforming catalyst that reforms the fuel gas into hydrogen (H2) and carbon monoxide (CO) and the like, and then supplies the hydrogen (H2) and carbon monoxide (CO) to the fuel cell section 26. For example, the reformer 14 performs the reforming of the fuel gas by a partial oxidation reaction. The partial oxidation is a reaction that uses oxygen or air to make a mixed gas of hydrogen and carbon monoxide by combusting a part of a hydrocarbon. The reforming catalyst of the reformer 14 is, for example, warmed to about 300°C and the partial oxidation reaction occurs. When the partial oxidation reaction occurs, the reforming catalyst of the reformer 14 reaches, for example, about 700°C. In order to make the reforming catalyst of the reformer 14 perform the partial oxidation reaction, the air supply path for reforming 24 is provided. For example, as shown in Figure 2 FIG. 8, the air supply path for reforming 24 branches from the oxidizing gas supply path 16 and guides the oxidizing gas transported from the oxidizing gas supply section 21 to the reformer 14. Note that the mechanism that supplies air to the reformer 14 is not limited to the oxidizing gas supply section 21, and can be another mechanism. Also, the air supply path for reforming 24 can not necessarily branch from the oxidizing gas supply path 16 as long as it can supply air to the reformer 14.

[0044] The burner 17 combusts the fuel gas (hydrocarbon fuel) supplied from the gas container 12 through the fuel gas supply path 15 and heats the fuel cell section 26 to a power generation start temperature. Specifically, as shown in Figure 2 FIG. 9, the burner fuel supply path 22 branches from the fuel gas supply path 15 and is connected to the burner 17. The fuel gas supplied from the gas container 12 via the container connection section 64 is guided to the burner 17 through the fuel gas supply path 15, the burner fuel supply path 22, and a gas-air mixer (not shown) while being mixed with air.

[0045] An electrode (not shown) is provided in the vicinity of the burner 17. When the user rotates the operation knob section (not shown), an igniter (not shown) is pressed to generate a pulse voltage. The electrode provided in the vicinity of the burner 17 is discharged by the pulse voltage generated by the rotation of the operation knob section, the fuel gas supplied from the gas container 12 to the burner 17 is combusted, and the burner 17 can be ignited. The burner 17 of the present embodiment is an example of the "heating mechanism" of the present application.

[0046] The thermoelectric power generation unit 61 includes a high-temperature unit 61a, a low-temperature unit 61b, and a thermoelectric element 61c, and is heated by a burner 17. Specifically, the high-temperature unit 61a is disposed opposite to the fuel cell unit 26, for example, and is heated by the flame emitted from the burner 17 and the heat transferred from the exhaust gas. The high-temperature unit 61a functions as a heat-receiving unit, effectively receiving the heat emitted from the flame of the burner 17 and the heat transferred from the exhaust gas, and transferring it to the thermoelectric element 61c. The low-temperature unit 61b is disposed separately from the high-temperature unit 61a via the thermoelectric element 61c. The low-temperature unit 61b is disposed opposite to the high-temperature unit 61a and is maintained at a lower temperature than the high-temperature unit 61a. The cooling method of the low-temperature unit 61b is not particularly limited, for example, it can be natural air cooling or forced air cooling.

[0047] Thermoelectric element 61c is sandwiched between high-temperature section 61a and low-temperature section 61b, generating electricity based on the temperature difference between them. Thermoelectric element 61c utilizes the Seebeck effect to generate a thermoelectric electromotive force. Thermoelectric elements are also called thermoelectric conversion elements or thermoelectric power generation elements. When the temperature difference generated between the high-temperature section 61a and the low-temperature section 61b is, for example, approximately 100°C to 150°C, more thermoelectric electromotive force can be generated.

[0048] like Figure 2 As shown, exhaust passage 19 is connected to fuel cell section 26. Exhaust passage 19 is a flow path that discharges the high-temperature exhaust gas from fuel cell section 26 to the outside of solid oxide fuel cell generator 11. A CO remover 18 is provided on exhaust passage 19. The CO remover 18 uses a catalyst provided inside to remove CO from the exhaust gas at a temperature of over 200°C.

[0049] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, heat exchangers 23 are provided on the oxidizing gas supply path 16 and the exhaust path 19. The heat exchangers 23 perform heat exchange between the oxidizing gas supply path 16 and the exhaust path 19. In the solid oxide fuel cell generator 11 according to this embodiment, two heat exchangers 23 are provided, namely a low-temperature side heat exchanger 23a and a high-temperature side heat exchanger 23b.

[0050] The oxidizing gas supplied from the oxidizing gas supply section 21 to the oxidizing gas supply path 16 is heated by exchanging heat with the exhaust gas flowing in the exhaust path 19 within the low-temperature side heat exchanger 23a. Next, the oxidizing gas passing through the low-temperature side heat exchanger 23a is heated by exchanging heat with the exhaust gas flowing in the exhaust path 19 within the high-temperature side heat exchanger 23b, further increasing its temperature. Then, the oxidizing gas, now at a high temperature after passing through the low-temperature side heat exchanger 23a and the high-temperature side heat exchanger 23b, is introduced into the cathode 13b of the fuel cell section 26 through the oxidizing gas supply path 16.

[0051] The high-temperature exhaust gas generated by power generation in the fuel cell section 26 passes through the high-temperature side heat exchanger 23b, where it exchanges heat with the oxidizing gas flowing in the oxidizing gas supply path 16 within the high-temperature side heat exchanger 23b, thus lowering its temperature. The temperature of the exhaust gas discharged from the fuel cell section 26 before passing through the high-temperature side heat exchanger 23b is, for example, approximately 600°C or higher. The temperature of the exhaust gas, lowered by the high-temperature side heat exchanger 23b, is, for example, approximately 200°C or higher. As a result, the catalyst of the CO remover 18 acts more reliably on the exhaust gas. Next, the exhaust gas passing through the high-temperature side heat exchanger 23b passes through the CO remover 18 and the low-temperature side heat exchanger 23a, where it exchanges heat with the oxidizing gas flowing in the oxidizing gas supply path 16 within the low-temperature side heat exchanger 23a, further lowering its temperature. The temperature of the exhaust gas, lowered by the low-temperature side heat exchanger 23a, is, for example, less than approximately 80°C. Then, the exhaust gas, now at a low temperature after passing through the high-temperature side heat exchanger 23b and the low-temperature side heat exchanger 23a, is discharged from the outlet of the exhaust path 19.

[0052] The control unit 58 performs overall control of the solid oxide fuel cell generator 11 according to this embodiment. For example, such as Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 As shown, the control unit 58 receives electricity generated by the fuel cell unit 26 and the thermoelectric power generation unit 61, and supplies this electricity to the oxidizing gas supply unit 21. Details will be described later. Additionally, the control unit 58 includes a power conversion device 54. The power conversion device 54 receives electricity generated by the fuel cell unit 26 and converts direct current (DC) power into alternating current (AC) power.

[0053] Here, as described above, the fuel cell section 26 generates electricity through an electrochemical reaction produced by fuel gas and oxidizing gas. Therefore, in order for the fuel cell section 26 to start generating electricity, it is necessary to start supplying oxidizing gas to the cathode 13b of the fuel cell section 26. Thus, sometimes it is necessary to use an auxiliary power source such as a battery (i.e., an external power source) to start driving the oxidizing gas supply section 21 that supplies oxidizing gas to the cathode 13b of the fuel cell section 26. However, in places such as outdoors where there is no commercial power supply or in disaster-stricken areas, auxiliary power supply cannot always be secured.

[0054] On the contrary, the solid oxide fuel cell generator 11 according to the present embodiment is provided with a thermoelectric power generation section 61. As described above, the thermoelectric power generation section 61 has a thermoelectric element 61c heated by the burner 17. The thermoelectric element 61c generates power based on a temperature difference between a high-temperature section 61a and a low-temperature section 61b. In addition, the control section 58 performs control that receives power generated by the thermoelectric element 61c of the thermoelectric power generation section 61 and supplies the oxidizing gas supply section 21.

[0055] According to the solid oxide fuel cell generator 11 according to the present embodiment, the oxidizing gas supply section 21 is able to start driving by being supplied with power generated by the thermoelectric element 61c of the thermoelectric power generation section 61 heated by the burner 17 even if an auxiliary power source such as a battery is not required, and supply oxidizing gas to the fuel cell section 26 through the oxidizing gas supply path 16. Thus, the fuel cell section 26 is able to start power generation using fuel gas supplied from the gas container 12 through the fuel gas supply path 15 and oxidizing gas supplied from the oxidizing gas supply section 21 through the oxidizing gas supply path 16 even if an auxiliary power source such as a battery is not required. In addition, since an auxiliary power source is no longer required, miniaturization of the solid oxide fuel cell generator 11 is achieved.

[0056] In addition, the solid oxide fuel cell generator 11 according to the present embodiment is able to combine power generation by the fuel cell section 26 and power generation by the thermoelectric power generation section 61. That is, a portion of power necessary for high-temperature operation of the fuel cell section 26 can be supplemented using power generated by the thermoelectric element 61c of the thermoelectric power generation section 61. Thus, compared to a case in which the same amount of power is generated by the fuel cell section 26 alone, the amount of power generated by the entire solid oxide fuel cell generator 11 can be increased by an auxiliary amount of power generated by the thermoelectric element 61c of the thermoelectric power generation section 61, and the amount of fuel gas used can be reduced to save fuel gas. In addition, compared to a case in which the fuel cell section 26 generates power alone, the operating temperature of the fuel cell section 26 can be stably maintained at about 650 ± 50°C. Thus, the durability of the fuel cell section 26 can be improved, and the influence of heat on peripheral equipment of the fuel cell section 26 can be suppressed. In addition, as a result, the range of choices of materials that can be used for the peripheral equipment of the fuel cell section 26 can be expanded.

[0057] Next, a specific example of the operation of the solid oxide fuel cell generator 11 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0058] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing a specific example of the operation of the solid oxide fuel cell generator according to the present embodiment.

[0059] Figure 5 This is a timing diagram illustrating a specific example of the operation of the solid oxide fuel cell generator according to this embodiment.

[0060] First, the user, for example, turns the operating knob (not shown) to ignite the burner 17. The burner 17 then begins to burn the fuel gas supplied from the gas container 12 through the fuel gas supply passage 15, and heats the fuel cell section 26 and the thermoelectric power generation section 61. Figure 4 Step S11, Figure 5 At time T11). Next, when a temperature difference is generated between the high-temperature section 61a and the low-temperature section 61b due to the heat emitted from the burner 17 and the heat transferred from the exhaust gas, the thermoelectric element 61c of the thermoelectric power generation section 61 begins to generate electricity. Figure 4 Step S12, Figure 5 (Times T11 to T12). Next, the control unit 58 receives the power generated by the thermoelectric element 61c of the thermoelectric power generation unit 61 and supplies this power only to the first blower 21a. Figure 4 Step S13).

[0061] Therefore, the first blower 21a is driven by the power generated by the thermoelectric element 61c of the thermoelectric power generation unit 61 supplied from the control unit 58, and supplies oxidizing gas to the first battery module unit 26a. Figure 4 Step S14, Figure 5 (Time T12). In this specific example, as an example, the first battery module section 26a includes only the first battery module 27a, and the second battery module section 26b includes the second battery module 27b, the third battery module 27c, and the fourth battery module 27d. Therefore, in this specific example, the first blower 21a is started by supplying electricity generated by the thermoelectric element 61c of the thermoelectric power generation section 61 from the control unit 58, and supplies oxidizing gas to the first battery module 27a.

[0062] Next, when the first battery module 26a (in this specific example, the first battery module 27a) is heated to the power generation start temperature, power generation begins using oxidizing gas supplied from the first blower 21a through the oxidizing gas supply path 16 and fuel gas supplied from the gas container 12 through the fuel gas supply path 15. Figure 4 Step S15, Figure 5 At time T13, heat is generated in the first battery module 26a due to the power generation of the first battery module 26a. That is, the first battery module 26a generates heat itself when it starts generating power. Next, the control unit 58 receives the power generated by the first battery module 26a and supplies the power to the second blower 21b. Figure 4Step S16).

[0063] Thus, the second blower 21b starts to drive by being supplied with the electric power generated by the first battery module section 26a from the control section 58, and supplies the oxidizing gas to the second battery module section 26b (the second battery module 27b, the third battery module 27c, and the fourth battery module 27d in this specific example). Figure 4 Step S17, Figure 5 at time T14). At this time, the second battery module section 26b is further heated by the heat generated by the power generation of the first battery module section 26a, that is, the heat generated by the self heating of the first battery module section 26a. That is, the second battery module section 26b is heated by both the burner 17 and the first battery module section 26a. Next, when the second battery module section 26b is heated to the power generation start temperature, the power generation is started using the oxidizing gas supplied from the second blower 21b through the oxidizing gas supply path 16 and the fuel gas supplied from the gas container 12 through the fuel gas supply path 15 (Step S18). Figure 4 Step S18, Figure 5 at time T15). At this time, in the second battery module section 26b, the heat is generated by the power generation of the second battery module section 26b. That is, the second battery module section 26b, like the first battery module section 26a, self heats due to the power generation when the power generation is started. In this way, all of the battery modules 27a, 27b, 27c, 27d of the fuel cell section 26 start the power generation.

[0064] Next, when the user, for example, turns the knob section (not shown), the burner 17 stops the combustion (Step S19). Figure 4 Step S19, Figure 5 at time T16). Even after the burner 17 stops the combustion, the first battery module section 26a and the second battery module section 26b can maintain the high temperature of, for example, 600°C or higher by the self heating, and can continue the power generation during the period until the supply of the fuel gas is stopped (time T16 to time T17). Figure 5 at time T16 to time T17). As an example of stopping the supply of the fuel gas, there can be cited, for example, a case where the supply of the fuel gas is intentionally stopped by using a valve or the like, a case where the supply of the fuel gas is stopped by exhausting the fuel gas in the gas container 12, and the like.

[0065] In addition, the thermoelectric element 61c of the thermoelectric power generation section 61 can continue the power generation based on the temperature difference between the high temperature section 61a and the low temperature section 61b (time T16 to time T17). Thus, the first blower 21a can continue to supply the oxidizing gas to the first battery module section 26a (time T16 to time T17). Figure 5 Figure 5 ​from time T16 to time T17). In addition, by doing so, the second blower 21b can continue to supply the oxidizing gas to the second battery module section 26b (from time T16 to time T17). Figure 5

[0066] Then, when the supply of the fuel gas is stopped, the power generation of the first battery module section 26a and the second battery module section 26b is stopped, and at the same time, the driving of the second blower 21b is stopped (at time T17). In addition, when the temperature difference between the high-temperature section 61a and the low-temperature section 61b becomes equal to or lower than a predetermined temperature, the thermoelectric electromotive force generated by the thermoelectric element 61c of the thermoelectric power generation section 61 gradually decreases (from time T17 to time T18). Then, when the power generation of the thermoelectric element 61c of the thermoelectric power generation section 61 is stopped, the driving of the first blower 21a is stopped (at time T18). Figure 5 Figure 5 Figure 4

[0067] According to the specific example of the operation of the solid oxide fuel cell generator 11 according to the present embodiment, the control section 58 performs the control of not supplying the electric power generated by the thermoelectric element 61c of the thermoelectric power generation section 61 to all the plurality of blowers 21a, 21b possessed by the oxidizing gas supply section 21, but supplying the electric power to only the first blower 21a. Therefore, after the thermoelectric element 61c of the thermoelectric power generation section 61 starts to generate the electric power, the oxidizing gas is not supplied to all the plurality of battery module sections 26a, 26b possessed by the fuel cell section 26, but is supplied to the first battery module section 26a. Then, the first battery module section 26a to which the oxidizing gas is supplied starts to generate the electric power. Therefore, the fuel cell section 26 having the plurality of battery module sections 26a, 26b can start to generate the electric power in stages for each of the battery module sections to which the oxidizing gas is started to be supplied. By doing so, it is possible to utilize the electric power generated by the first battery module section 26a in advance before the time when all the battery module sections 26a, 26b start to generate the electric power. In addition, the first battery module section 26a itself generates the heat when it starts to generate the electric power. It is possible to effectively utilize the heat generated by the self-heating of the first battery module section 26a to heat the second battery module section 26b. By doing so, it is possible to shorten the startup time or the work start time (i.e., the start-up time) before the fuel cell section 26 starts to generate the electric power, compared to the case where all the battery module sections 26a, 26b are heated by the burner 17 at the same time. In addition, it is possible to suppress the flow rate of the oxidizing gas and the heat of the burner 17 required for the fuel cell section 26 to start to generate the electric power. Therefore, it is possible to realize the miniaturization of the oxidizing gas supply section 21 and the burner 17, and it is possible to realize the miniaturization of the solid oxide fuel cell generator 11.

[0068] ​​​​Further, the control section 58 supplies the electric power generated by the thermoelectric element 61c of the thermoelectric power generation section 61 only to the first blower fan 21a to cause the first battery module section 26a to start power generation, and supplies the electric power generated by the first battery module section 26a, which has started power generation, to the second blower fan 21b to cause the second battery module section 26b to start power generation. Thus, as described above, the fuel cell section 26 having the plurality of battery module sections 26a, 26b can start power generation in stages for each of the battery module sections to which the oxidizing gas is started to be supplied. Thereby, the same effects as the aforementioned effects can be obtained.

[0069] Further, the second battery module section 26b is further heated by the heat generated by the power generation of the first battery module section 26a, that is, the heat generated by the self heating of the first battery module section 26a. That is, the second battery module section 26b is heated by both the burner 17 and the first battery module section 26a. Thereby, it is possible to further shorten the start-up time or the work start time (that is, the start time) before the fuel cell section 26 starts power generation. Thus, it is possible to further suppress the flow rate of the oxidizing gas and the heat of the burner 17 required for the fuel cell section 26 to start power generation. Thereby, it is possible to achieve further miniaturization of the oxidizing gas supply section 21 and the burner 17, and further miniaturization of the solid oxide fuel cell generator 11.

[0070] Further, as described above, the thermoelectric power generation section 61 is heated by the flame emitted from the burner 17 and the heat transferred from the exhaust gas. Thus, it is possible to use not only the waste heat generated by the combustion of the burner 17, that is, the temperature rise of the fuel cell section 26, but also the temperature rise of the high-temperature section 61a of the thermoelectric power generation section 61. Thereby, it is possible to improve the utilization efficiency of the fuel gas. Further, for example, even in the case where the combustion of the burner 17 is stopped, the fuel cell section 26 can maintain a high temperature at the time of starting power generation by the self heating due to power generation. Further, the thermoelectric power generation section 61 is also heated by the heat generated by the power generation of the fuel cell section 26, that is, the heat generated by the self heating of the fuel cell section 26. Thus, the thermoelectric power generation section 61 can continue to generate electric power by the thermoelectric element 61c using the heat generated by the power generation of the fuel cell section 26. Thereby, it is possible to effectively use the heat generated by the power generation of the fuel cell section 26.

[0071] Note that, in the present embodiment, as an example, the first battery module section 26a includes only the first battery module 27a, and the second battery module section 26b includes the second battery module 27b, the third battery module 27c, and the fourth battery module 27d. However, the mode of the battery modules included in each of the first battery module section 26a and the second battery module section 26b is not limited to this. For example, the first battery module section 26a can include the first battery module 27a and the second battery module section 26b, and the second battery module section 26b can include the third battery module 27c and the fourth battery module 27d.

[0072] In this case, the control section 58 receives the electric power generated by the thermoelectric element 61c of the thermoelectric power generation section 61, and supplies the electric power only to the first air blower 21a (step S13). Then, the first air blower 21a starts to be driven by the electric power generated by the thermoelectric element 61c of the thermoelectric power generation section 61 supplied from the control section 58, and supplies the oxidizing gas (step S14, time T12) to the first battery module 27a and the second battery module 27b. When the first battery module 27a and the second battery module 27b are heated to the power generation start temperature, power generation is started using the oxidizing gas supplied from the first air blower 21a through the oxidizing gas supply path 16 and the fuel gas supplied from the gas container 12 through the fuel gas supply path 15 (step S15, time T13). Figure 4 Figure 5 Figure 4 Figure 5 Figure 4 Figure 5 Figure 4 Figure 5 ​

[0073] The above describes the embodiment of the present application. However, the present application is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the claims. The structure of the above-described embodiment can omit a part thereof, or can be arbitrarily combined in a different manner from the above.

[0074] ​​​​​​​​​Reference Signs

[0075] 11: solid oxide fuel cell generator; 12: gas container; 13: cell; 13a: anode; 13b: cathode; 13c: electrolyte; 14: reformer; 15: fuel gas supply path; 16: oxidizing gas supply path; 17: combustor; 18: CO remover; 19: exhaust path; 21: oxidizing gas supply unit; 21a: first blower; 21b: second blower; 22: combustor fuel supply path; 23: heat exchanger; 23a: low-temperature side heat exchanger; 23b: high-temperature side heat exchanger; 24: air supply path for reforming; 26: fuel cell unit; 26a: first cell module unit; 26b: second cell module unit; 27a: first cell module; 27b: second cell module; 27c: third cell module; 27d: fourth cell module; 54: power conversion device; 58: control unit; 61: thermoelectric power generation unit; 61a: high-temperature unit; 61b: low-temperature unit; 61c: thermoelectric element; 63: frame; 64: container connection unit.

Claims

1. A solid oxide fuel cell generator characterized by comprising: a fuel cell section of a solid oxide type that generates electric power using a fuel gas and an oxidizing gas; an oxidizing gas supply section that supplies the oxidizing gas to the fuel cell section; an oxidizing gas supply path that introduces the oxidizing gas supplied from the oxidizing gas supply section into the fuel cell section; a fuel gas supply path that introduces the fuel gas stored in a gas container into the fuel cell section; a heating mechanism that heats using the fuel gas introduced by the fuel gas supply path; and a thermoelectric power generation section that has a thermoelectric element that generates electric power based on a temperature difference generated between a high temperature section and a low temperature section, wherein the heating mechanism is configured to heat the fuel cell section and the thermoelectric power generation section together, wherein the solid oxide fuel cell generator comprises a control section that performs control to supply electric power generated by the thermoelectric element to the oxidizing gas supply section, wherein the fuel cell section has a first cell module section and a second cell module section, wherein the oxidizing gas supply section has a first blower that supplies the oxidizing gas to the first cell module section and a second blower that supplies the oxidizing gas to the second cell module section, and wherein the control section performs control to supply electric power generated by the thermoelectric element only to the first blower.

2. The solid oxide fuel cell generator according to claim 1, characterized in that the first cell module section generates electric power using the oxidizing gas supplied from the first blower through the oxidizing gas supply path and the fuel gas supplied through the fuel gas supply path, and in that the control section performs control to supply electric power generated by the first cell module section to the second blower.

3. The solid oxide fuel cell generator according to claim 2, characterized in that the second cell module section is further heated using heat generated by electric power generation of the first cell module section while generating electric power using the oxidizing gas supplied from the second blower through the oxidizing gas supply path and the fuel gas supplied through the fuel gas supply path.

4. The solid oxide fuel cell generator according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the heating mechanism is a burner that burns the fuel gas introduced by the fuel gas supply path, and in that the thermoelectric power generation section is heated by heat transferred from a flame emitted from the burner while the high temperature section of the thermoelectric power generation section is disposed opposite the fuel cell section, and the thermoelectric power generation section is heated by heat generated by electric power generation of the fuel cell section based on the effect of heat conduction. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​

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