Power generation scheduling method for fuel cell device, power generation scheduling device for fuel cell device, and power generation system

Abstract

The power generation planning method for a fuel cell device according to the present disclosure comprises the steps of: receiving a power generation plan for a fuel cell device; storing the received power generation plan of the fuel cell device; and when the next power generation plan is not received and the remaining period of the stored power generation plan is shorter than a predetermined period, adding the power generation plan using the stored data of the power generation plan so that the remaining period of the power generation plan becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined period.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a power generation scheduling method for a fuel cell device, a power generation scheduling device for a fuel cell device, and a power generation system. Background Art

[0002] Regarding output control of a power generation system, various schemes have been proposed in the past. As an example, Patent Document 1 discloses a system in which a plurality of power generation devices are divided into a scheduled operation (operation according to a schedule) power generation device and a non-scheduled operation (irregular operation) power generation device. Further, for example, it is described that the total power output value of the non-scheduled operation power generation devices is calculated by subtracting the total power output value of the scheduled operation power generation devices from the power consumption (power consumption) of a load device that is a power supply object of the plurality of power generation devices. Additionally, for example, it is described that for the scheduled operation power generation devices, an operation instruction is given based on a pre-recorded schedule and power output value, and for the non-scheduled operation power generation devices, an operation instruction is given at a predetermined time interval based on the calculated total power output value.

[0003] Prior Art Documents

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 4864739 Summary of the Invention

[0005] Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to provide, as an example, a power generation scheduling method for a fuel cell device, a power generation scheduling device for a fuel cell device, and a power generation system that can schedule more appropriately than in the past in the power generation scheduling of a fuel cell device.

[0007] Technical Solution for Solving the Problems

[0008] To solve the above problems, a power generation scheduling method for a fuel cell device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes the following steps: a step of receiving a power generation schedule of the fuel cell device; a step of storing the received power generation schedule of the fuel cell device; and a step of, when a next (subsequent) power generation schedule is not received and the remaining period of the stored power generation schedule is shorter than a predetermined period, using the data of the stored power generation schedule to add a power generation schedule so that the remaining period of the power generation schedule becomes equal to or longer than the predetermined period.

[0009] In addition, a power generation planning device for a fuel cell device according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes: a communicator that receives a power generation plan for the fuel cell device; a memory that stores the received power generation plan for the fuel cell device; and a controller that, when a next power generation plan is not received via the communicator and the remaining period of the power generation plan stored in the memory is shorter than a predetermined period, uses the data of the power generation plan stored in the memory to append a power generation plan so that the remaining period of the power generation plan becomes equal to or longer than the predetermined period.

[0010] In addition, a power generation system according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes a fuel cell device and the power generation planning device for the fuel cell device described above.

[0011] Advantageous Effects of the Invention

[0012] A power generation planning method for a fuel cell device, a power generation planning device for a fuel cell device, and a power generation system according to an aspect of the present disclosure achieve the effect of being able to plan more appropriately than in the past in the power generation plan of the fuel cell device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1 FIG. is a diagram showing an example of a power generation system according to the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 2 FIG. is a flowchart showing an example of the operation (power generation planning method) of the power generation planning device in the power generation system according to the first embodiment.

[0015] Figure 3A FIG. is a flowchart showing an example of the operation (power generation planning method) of the power generation planning device in the power generation system according to the first embodiment of the first example.

[0016] Figure 3B is for explaining Figure 3A FIG. is a diagram showing a specific example of the operation of step S4A in

[0017] Figure 4A FIG. is a flowchart showing an example of the operation (power generation planning method) of the power generation planning device in the power generation system according to the second embodiment of the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 4B is for explaining Figure 4A FIG. is a diagram showing a specific example of the operation of step S4B in

[0019] Figure 5 FIG. is a flowchart showing an example of the operation (power generation planning method) of the power generation planning device in the power generation system according to the third embodiment of the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 6AIt is a flowchart showing an example of the operation (power generation planning method) of a power generation planning device in a power generation system which is a modification example of the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 6B It is used to explain Figure 6A a specific example of the operation of step S6 in

[0022] Figure 7 It is a diagram showing an example of a power generation system of the second embodiment. Specific Embodiments

[0023] In Patent Document 1, the operation in the case where the power generation period of the power generation device becomes shorter than a predetermined period during the power generation plan is not considered. Therefore, there is no sufficient consideration for the response in the case where it is assumed that the next power generation plan in the power generation device is not received and the remaining period of the power generation plan stored in the memory becomes shorter than the predetermined period.

[0024] In response to this, the power generation planning method of the fuel cell device according to the first aspect of the present disclosure includes the following steps: a step of receiving a power generation plan of the fuel cell device; a step of storing the received power generation plan of the fuel cell device; and a step of, when the next power generation plan is not received and the remaining period of the stored power generation plan is shorter than the predetermined period, using the data of the stored power generation plan to add a power generation plan so that the remaining period of the power generation plan becomes equal to or longer than the predetermined period.

[0025] According to the above description, the power generation planning method of the fuel cell device of this aspect can plan more appropriately than before in the power generation plan of the fuel cell device.

[0026] For example, in the case where the next power generation plan in the fuel cell device is not received and the remaining period of the power generation plan stored in the memory becomes shorter than the predetermined period, a fuel cell device that should continue to generate power if the next power generation plan is received may stop generating power. As a result, it is possible to cause the fuel cell device to start / stop excessively and shorten the service life. However, in the power generation planning method of the fuel cell device of this solution, when the remaining period of the stored power generation plan is shorter than the predetermined period, the data of the stored power generation plan is used to add a power generation plan so that the remaining period of the power generation plan becomes equal to or longer than the predetermined period. Thus, compared with the state where the remaining period of the power generation plan is still shorter than the predetermined period, the fuel cell device can operate (work) appropriately throughout the predetermined period.

[0027] The power generation planning method of the fuel cell device according to the second aspect of the present disclosure, on the basis of the power generation planning method of the fuel cell device of the first aspect, may also make the remaining period of the power generation plan equal to or longer than the predetermined period by repeating the data of the last unit period of the stored power generation plan.

[0028] As described above, even when the next power generation plan in the fuel cell device is not received and the remaining period of the power generation plan stored in the memory becomes shorter than a predetermined period, the power generation plan method of the fuel cell device according to this mode can repeat the data of the last unit period of the stored power generation plan and add a power generation plan so that the remaining period of the power generation plan becomes equal to or longer than the predetermined period. Thus, according to the power generation plan method of the fuel cell device according to this mode, compared with the state where the remaining period of the power generation plan is still shorter than the predetermined period, the fuel cell device can operate properly throughout the predetermined period.

[0029] Based on the power generation plan method of the fuel cell device according to the first mode, the power generation plan method of the fuel cell device according to the third mode of the present disclosure can also make the remaining period of the power generation plan equal to or longer than the predetermined period by extracting data of a period corresponding to the difference between the predetermined period and the remaining period from the stored power generation plan and adding the data.

[0030] As described above, even when the next power generation plan in the fuel cell device is not received and the remaining period of the power generation plan stored in the memory becomes shorter than a predetermined period, the power generation plan method of the fuel cell device according to this mode can extract data of a period corresponding to the difference between the predetermined period and the remaining period from the stored power generation plan and add the data, thereby adding a power generation plan so that the remaining period of the power generation plan becomes equal to or longer than the predetermined period. Thus, according to the power generation plan method of the fuel cell device according to this mode, compared with the state where the remaining period of the power generation plan is still shorter than the predetermined period, the fuel cell device can operate properly throughout the predetermined period.

[0031] The power generation plan method of the fuel cell device according to the fourth mode of the present disclosure may also include a step of receiving first information indicating which one of the power generation plan method of the fuel cell device according to the second mode and the power generation plan method of the fuel cell device according to the third mode is selected, and performing one of the power generation plan addition methods of the fuel cell device according to the second mode and the power generation plan addition methods of the fuel cell device according to the third mode based on the first information.

[0032] As described above, the power generation plan method of the fuel cell device according to this mode can receive the first information indicating whether to select the power generation plan method of the fuel cell device according to the second mode or the power generation plan method of the fuel cell device according to the third mode. Thus, compared with the case of performing the power generation plan of the fuel cell device without receiving such first information, the fuel cell device can operate properly.

[0033] The power generation scheduling method of the fuel cell device according to the fifth aspect of the present disclosure may also include a step of receiving second information on the basis of the power generation scheduling method of the fuel cell device according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, where the second information indicates that no additional power generation scheduling of the fuel cell device is to be performed, and when the second information is received, no additional power generation scheduling of the fuel cell device is performed.

[0034] According to the above description, the power generation scheduling method of the fuel cell device according to this aspect can receive the second information indicating that no additional power generation scheduling of the fuel cell device is to be performed. Thus, compared with the case where the power generation scheduling of the fuel cell device is performed without receiving the second information, the fuel cell device can be stopped in a timely manner.

[0035] The power generation scheduling device of the fuel cell device according to the sixth aspect of the present disclosure includes: a communicator that receives the power generation schedule of the fuel cell device; a memory that stores the received power generation schedule of the fuel cell device; and a controller that, when the next power generation schedule is not received via the communicator and the remaining period of the power generation schedule stored in the memory is shorter than a predetermined period, uses the data of the power generation schedule stored in the memory to add a power generation schedule so that the remaining period of the power generation schedule becomes equal to or longer than the predetermined period.

[0036] According to this configuration, the power generation scheduling device of the fuel cell device according to this aspect can plan more appropriately in the power generation scheduling of the fuel cell device than before. In addition, the details of the effects exerted by the power generation scheduling device of the fuel cell device according to this aspect are the same as those of the power generation scheduling method of the fuel cell device according to the first aspect, so the description is omitted.

[0037] The power generation system according to the seventh aspect of the present disclosure includes a fuel cell device and the power generation scheduling device of the fuel cell device according to the sixth aspect.

[0038] According to this configuration, the power generation system according to this aspect can plan more appropriately in the power generation scheduling of the fuel cell device than before. In addition, the details of the effects exerted by the power generation system according to this aspect are the same as those of the power generation scheduling method of the fuel cell device according to the first aspect, so the description is omitted.

[0039] Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings, specific examples of the above aspects of the present disclosure will be described. All the specific examples described below represent an example of the above aspects of the present disclosure. Thus, as long as it is not described in the claims, the shapes, numerical values, constituent elements, arrangement positions and connection forms of the constituent elements shown below do not limit the scope of the claims.

[0040] In addition, among the components described below, the components not recited in the independent claims representing the uppermost concept of the present disclosure are described as optional components. In addition, descriptions of components denoted by the same reference numerals in the drawings may be omitted. The drawings schematically show each component for easy understanding, and the shape, dimensional ratio, etc. may not be accurately shown.

[0041] Furthermore, in the operation of the device, the order of steps may be changed as needed, and well-known steps may be added.

[0042] (First Embodiment)

[0043] [Device Configuration]

[0044] Figure 1 FIG. is an example of a power generation system showing a first embodiment.

[0045] As Figure 1 shown, the power generation system 10 of the present embodiment includes a fuel cell device 15 and a power generation planning device 20 for the fuel cell device 15. This power generation system 10 may also be, for example, a system that supplies high power (electricity) to an electric power system (power grid). In this case, the fuel cell device 15 includes a group of power generation units formed by a plurality of power generation units including a fuel cell stack. The detailed configuration of such a power generation system 10 will be described in the second embodiment.

[0046] In Figure 1 the example shown, the power generation planning device 20 includes a communicator 21, a memory 22, and a controller 23.

[0047] The communicator 21 is a receiver that receives the power generation plan of the fuel cell device 15. For example, the communicator 21 can receive the above-mentioned power generation plan transmitted by a terminal or a server via a communication network per unit period.

[0048] As the above-mentioned "unit period", for example, about 30 minutes can be cited, but it is not limited thereto. The "unit period" can be set to an appropriate period based on the configuration of the power generation system 10, etc.

[0049] In addition, the users of the above-mentioned terminal or server include direct or indirect users of the power generation planning device 20. The direct user of the power generation planning device 20 is, for example, the manager of the power generation planning device 20. The indirect user of the power generation planning device 20 can be, for example, all the entities of the power generation system 10, etc. Such all entities can be either consumers who receive the power supply service of the power generated in the power generation system 10 or power generation operators who use the power generation system 10 to supply power to consumers.

[0050] The memory 22 is a memory for storing the power generation plan of the fuel cell device 15 received via the communicator 21.

[0051] When the controller 23 does not receive the next power generation plan of the fuel cell device 15 from the terminal or the server via the communicator 21 and the remaining period of the power generation plan stored in the memory 22 is shorter than a predetermined period, the controller 23 uses the data of the power generation plan stored in the memory 22 to append a power generation plan so that the remaining period of the power generation plan becomes equal to or longer than the predetermined period.

[0052] Here, as the "case where the next power generation plan of the fuel cell device 15 is not received via the communicator 21", for example, a case where a communication failure occurs in the communication network or a case where a failure occurs in the energy management system can be conceived, but it is not limited to these.

[0053] As the above-mentioned "predetermined period", for example, "3 days" can be cited, but it is not limited thereto. The "predetermined period" can be set to an appropriate period based on the configuration of the power generation system 10 and the like.

[0054] The controller 23 only needs to have a control function, and includes an arithmetic processing unit (not shown) and a storage unit that stores a control program. By the arithmetic processing unit reading and executing the control program stored in the storage unit, predetermined control is performed in the controller 23. As the arithmetic processing unit, for example, a microprocessor can be exemplified. As the storage unit, for example, a memory can be exemplified.

[0055] [Operation]

[0056] Figure 2 It is a flowchart showing an example of the operation (power generation plan method) of the power generation plan device in the power generation system of the first embodiment. The following operations can be performed, for example, by the arithmetic processing unit of the controller 23 reading the control program from the storage unit of the controller 23. However, it is not necessary to perform the following operations in the controller 23. The operator can also perform a part of the operations. In the following example, the case where the operations are controlled by the controller 23 will be described.

[0057] First, after the operation of the power generation plan device 20 starts, in step S1, the power generation plan of the fuel cell device 15 is received via the communicator 21. For example, the above-mentioned power generation plan sent by the terminal or the server can be received via the communication network per unit period.

[0058] Next, in step S2, the power generation plan of the fuel cell device 15 received via the communicator 21 is stored in the memory 22.

[0059] Next, in step S3, it is determined whether the remaining period of the power generation plan stored in the memory 22 is equal to or longer than the predetermined period.

[0060] When the remaining period of the power generation plan stored in the memory 22 is equal to or longer than a predetermined period (when it is determined as "Yes" in step S3), the operations after step S1 may be executed again to receive the next power generation plan of the fuel cell device 15 via the communicator 21.

[0061] Here, when the next power generation plan of the fuel cell device 15 is not received via the communicator 21 and the remaining period of the power generation plan stored in the memory 22 is shorter than the predetermined period (when it is determined as "No" in step S3), in step S4, a process of adding a power generation plan using the data of the power generation plan stored in the memory 22 is performed so that the remaining period of the power generation plan of the fuel cell device 15 becomes equal to or longer than the predetermined period.

[0062] After the operation of the above power generation plan device 20 ends, the power generation of the fuel cell device 15 is appropriately performed based on the power generation plan stored in the memory 22 in a timely manner.

[0063] In addition, a specific processing procedure (flow) for executing step S4 may be received and stored in the memory 22, but it is not limited thereto. The specific processing procedure for executing step S4 may be stored in the memory 22 in advance. An example of such a processing procedure will be described in the embodiments.

[0064] According to the present embodiment described above, in the power generation plan of the fuel cell device 15, more appropriate planning can be achieved compared to the past.

[0065] For example, when the next power generation plan in the fuel cell device 15 is not received and the remaining period of the power generation plan stored in the memory 22 becomes shorter than the predetermined period, the fuel cell device 15 that should continue power generation may stop power generation if the next power generation plan is received. As a result, it is possible that the fuel cell device 15 starts / stops excessively, shortening its service life.

[0066] However, according to the present embodiment, when the remaining period of the power generation plan stored in the memory 22 is shorter than the predetermined period, the data of the power generation plan stored in the memory 22 is used to add a power generation plan so that the remaining period of the power generation plan becomes equal to or longer than the predetermined period. Thus, compared with the state where the remaining period of the power generation plan is still shorter than the predetermined period, the fuel cell device 15 can operate appropriately throughout the predetermined period.

[0067] (First Embodiment)

[0068] The power generation system 10 of the first embodiment of the first embodiment is the same as the power generation system 10 of the first embodiment except for the control content of the controller 23 described below.

[0069] The controller 23 controls as follows: When the next power generation plan of the fuel cell device 15 is not received via the communicator 21 and the remaining period of the power generation plan stored in the memory 22 is shorter than a predetermined period, by repeating the data of the last unit period of the stored power generation plan, the remaining period of the power generation plan is made to be equal to or longer than the predetermined period.

[0070] Figure 3A It is a flowchart showing an example of the operation (power generation plan method) of the power generation plan device in the power generation system of the first embodiment of the first embodiment. Figure 3B It is for explaining Figure 3A a specific example of the operation of step S4A in

[0071] The following operations can be performed, for example, by the arithmetic processing unit of the controller 23 reading a control program from the storage unit of the controller 23. However, it is not necessary to perform the following operations in the controller 23. The operator can also perform a part of the operations. In the following example, the case where the operations are controlled by the controller 23 will be described.

[0072] In addition, Figure 3A step S1, step S2, and step S3 in Figure 2 are the same as step S1, step S2, and step S3 in Figure 3A respectively, so detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0073] When the next power generation plan of the fuel cell device 15 is not received via the communicator 21 and the remaining period of the power generation plan stored in the memory 22 is shorter than a predetermined period (when it is determined as "no" in step S3), in step S4A, a process is performed to make the remaining period of the power generation plan equal to or longer than the predetermined period by repeating the data of the last unit period of the power generation plan stored in the memory 22. For example, when the "predetermined period" is 3 days and the "unit period" is 30 minutes, if the power generation plan for the first day to the third day of the fuel cell device 15 is received at the timing of the first day, and the power generation plan for the fourth day is not received at the timing of the second day, then in Figure 3B the example shown, for all unit periods of the fourth day, the data from 23:30 to 24:00 of the third day that has been received is repeated to complete the power generation plan for the fourth day. Thus, it is possible to make the remaining period of the power generation plan of the fuel cell device 15 be 3 days at the timing of the second day.

[0074] According to the present embodiment described above, even when the next power generation plan in the fuel cell device 15 is not received and the remaining period of the power generation plan stored in the memory 22 becomes shorter than a predetermined period, it is possible to repeat the data of the last unit period of the stored power generation plan and add a power generation plan so that the remaining period of the power generation plan becomes equal to or longer than the predetermined period. Thus, according to the present embodiment, compared with the state where the remaining period of the power generation plan is still shorter than the predetermined period, the fuel cell device 15 can operate appropriately throughout the predetermined period.

[0075] Except for the above features, the power generation plan method of the fuel cell device 15, the power generation plan device 20 of the fuel cell device 15, and the power generation system 10 of the present embodiment may be the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0076] (Second Embodiment)

[0077] The power generation system 10 of the second embodiment of the first embodiment is the same as the power generation system 10 of the first embodiment except for the control content of the controller 23 described below.

[0078] The controller 23 controls as follows: When the next power generation plan of the fuel cell device 15 is not received via the communicator 21 and the remaining period of the power generation plan stored in the memory 22 is shorter than the predetermined period, by extracting data of a period corresponding to the difference between the predetermined period and the remaining period from the stored power generation plan and adding the data, the remaining period of the power generation plan is made equal to or longer than the predetermined period.

[0079] Figure 4A It is a flowchart showing an example of the operation (power generation plan method) of the power generation plan device in the power generation system of the second embodiment of the first embodiment. Figure 4B It is used to explain Figure 4A A specific example of the operation of step S4B in

[0080] The following operations can be performed, for example, by the arithmetic processing unit of the controller 23 reading a control program from the storage unit of the controller 23. However, it is not necessary to perform the following operations in the controller 23. The operator may also perform a part of the operations. In the following example, the case where the operations are controlled by the controller 23 is described.

[0081] In addition, Figure 4A Steps S1, S2, and S3 of Figure 2 are the same as steps S1, S2, and S3 of Figure 4A respectively, and thus detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0082] When the next power generation plan of the fuel cell device 15 is not received via the communicator 21 and the remaining period of the power generation plan stored in the memory 22 is shorter than the predetermined period (when it is determined as "no" in step S3), in step S4B, a process is performed to make the remaining period of the power generation plan reach the predetermined period or more by extracting data for a period corresponding to the difference between the predetermined period and the remaining period from the power generation plan stored in the memory 22 and adding this data. For example, when the "predetermined period" is 3 days, if the power generation plan for the first day to the third day of the fuel cell device 15 is received at the timing of the first day, and the power generation plan for the fourth day is not received at the timing of the second day, then in Figure 4B the example shown, by extracting data for the power generation plan for a period corresponding to the difference between the period from the first day to the third day and the period from the second day to the third day (in this example, the first day) from the power generation plan for the first day to the third day of the fuel cell device 15 stored in the memory 22 and adding this data, the power generation plan for the fourth day is completed. Thus, it is possible to make the remaining period of the power generation plan of the fuel cell device 15 become 3 days at the timing of the second day.

[0083] According to the present embodiment described above, even when the next power generation plan in the fuel cell device 15 is not received and the remaining period of the power generation plan stored in the memory 22 becomes shorter than the predetermined period, it is possible to extract data for a period corresponding to the difference between the predetermined period and the remaining period from the stored power generation plan and add this data, thereby adding a power generation plan to make the remaining period of the power generation plan reach the predetermined period or more. Thus, according to the present embodiment, compared with the state where the remaining period of the power generation plan remains shorter than the predetermined period, it is possible to make the fuel cell device 15 operate properly throughout the predetermined period.

[0084] Except for the above features, the power generation plan method of the fuel cell device 15, the power generation plan device 20 of the fuel cell device 15, and the power generation system 10 of the present embodiment may be the same as those of the first embodiment or the first example of the first embodiment.

[0085] (Third Embodiment)

[0086] The power generation system 10 of the third example of the first embodiment is the same as the power generation system 10 of the first embodiment except for the control content of the controller 23 described below.

[0087] The controller 23 receives via the communicator 21 a signal indicating the selection of the power generation plan method of the fuel cell device 15 of the first example ( Figure 3A step S4A) and the power generation plan method of the fuel cell device 15 of the second example ( Figure 4Awhich party's information in step S4B). Further, based on this information, the controller 23 executes the power generation planning method of the fuel cell device 15 of the first embodiment ( Figure 3A step S4A) and the power generation planning method of the fuel cell device 15 of the second embodiment ( Figure 4A either step S4B).

[0088] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation (power generation planning method) of the power generation planning device in the power generation system of the third embodiment of the first embodiment.

[0089] The following operations can be performed, for example, by the arithmetic processing unit of the controller 23 reading a control program from the storage unit of the controller 23. However, the following operations do not necessarily have to be performed in the controller 23. The operator may also perform a part of the operations. In the following example, the case where the operations are controlled by the controller 23 will be described.

[0090] In addition, Figure 5 step S1, step S2, and step S3 are respectively the same as Figure 2 step S1, step S2, and step S3 respectively, and thus detailed descriptions thereof are omitted. Figure 5 step S4C corresponds to a specific example of a processing procedure for adding a power generation plan for the fuel cell device 15.

[0091] When the next power generation plan of the fuel cell device 15 is not received via the communicator 21 and the remaining period of the power generation plan stored in the memory 22 is shorter than a predetermined period (when it is determined as "no" in step S3), in step S5, it is determined whether to select the power generation planning method of the fuel cell device 15 of the first embodiment ( Figure 3A step S4A) and the power generation planning method of the fuel cell device 15 of the second embodiment ( Figure 4A step S4B). Further, since information indicating which one of the power generation planning method of the first embodiment and the power generation planning method of the second embodiment is selected is stored in the memory 22 in advance, this determination is made by confirming this. Such information can also be sent from the terminal or the server in the same manner as the power generation plan of the fuel cell device 15 in step S1. At this time, the power generation planning method of the fuel cell device 15 of the first embodiment and the power generation planning method of the fuel cell device 15 of the second embodiment can be received together with the above information, or such power generation planning methods and the above information can also be received at separate timings. Then, in step S4C, based on the determination in step S5, the power generation planning method of the fuel cell device 15 of the first embodiment ( Figure 3A step S4A) and the power generation planning method of the fuel cell device 15 of the second embodiment ( Figure 4AOne of the parties in step S4B).

[0092] According to the present embodiment described above, it is possible to receive information indicating which one of the power generation planning method of the fuel cell device 15 of the first embodiment and the power generation planning method of the fuel cell device 15 of the second embodiment is selected. Thus, compared with the case where the power generation plan of the fuel cell device 15 is executed without receiving such information, the fuel cell device 15 can operate appropriately.

[0093] Except for the above features, the power generation planning method of the fuel cell device 15, the power generation planning device 20 of the fuel cell device 15, and the power generation system 10 of the present embodiment may be the same as those of the first embodiment or the first to second embodiments of the first embodiment.

[0094] (Modification example)

[0095] The power generation system 10 of the modification example of the first embodiment is the same as the power generation system 10 of the first embodiment except for the control content of the controller 23 described below.

[0096] The controller 23 receives information indicating that no additional power generation plan for the fuel cell device 15 is to be performed via the communicator 21. Moreover, the controller 23 performs control as follows: when this information is received, no additional power generation plan for the fuel cell device 15 is performed.

[0097] Figure 6A It is a flowchart showing an example of the operation (power generation planning method) of the power generation planning device in the power generation system of the modification example of the first embodiment. Figure 6B It is for explaining Figure 6A A specific example of the operation of step S6 in

[0098] The following operations can be performed, for example, by the arithmetic processing unit of the controller 23 reading a control program from the storage unit of the controller 23. However, it is not necessary to perform the following operations in the controller 23. The operator may also perform a part of the operations. In the following example, the case where the operations are controlled by the controller 23 is described.

[0099] In addition, Figure 6A Steps S1, S2, S3, and S4 in Figure 2 are the same as steps S1, S2, S3, and S4 in

[0100] When the next power generation plan of the fuel cell device 15 is not received via the communicator 21 and the remaining period of the power generation plan stored in the memory 22 is shorter than a predetermined period (when the determination in step S3 is "no"), in step S6, it is determined whether to add the power generation plan of the fuel cell device 15. In addition, based on whether information indicating that the addition of the power generation plan is not to be performed is stored in the memory 22, the above determination is executed. Such information can also be sent by the terminal or the server in the same manner as the power generation plan of the fuel cell device 15 in step S1. At this time, the power generation plan of the fuel cell device 15 can be received together with the above information, or such a power generation plan and the above information can also be received at separate timings.

[0101] In the case where it is determined not to add the power generation plan of the fuel cell device 15 (when the determination in step S6 is "no"), the process of step S4 is bypassed. That is to say, the addition of the power generation plan of the fuel cell device 15 is not performed. For example, when the "predetermined period" is 3 days, even if the power generation plan for the first day to the third day of the fuel cell device 15 is received at the timing of the first day, and the power generation plan for the fourth day is not received at the timing of the second day, in Figure 6B the example shown, the power generation plan for the fourth day is not supplemented. Thus, in this case, at the start timing of the first unit period of the fourth day in the power generation plan of the fuel cell device 15, the power generation of the fuel cell device 15 stops.

[0102] According to the present modification described above, information indicating that the addition of the power generation plan of the fuel cell device 15 is not to be performed can be received. Thus, compared with the case of executing the power generation plan of the fuel cell device 15 without receiving such information, the fuel cell device 15 can be stopped in a timely manner.

[0103] Except for the above features, the power generation plan method of the fuel cell device 15, the power generation plan device 20 of the fuel cell device 15, and the power generation system 10 of the present modification can be the same as those of the first embodiment or the first to third embodiments of the first embodiment.

[0104] (Second Embodiment)

[0105] Figure 7 It is a diagram showing an example of the power generation system of the second embodiment.

[0106] As Figure 7 shown, the power generation system 10 of the present embodiment includes a fuel cell device 15 (refer to Figure 1 ), a power generation plan device 20 of the fuel cell device 15, and control devices 30A to 30E.

[0107] Here, the configuration within the power generation planning device 20 is the same as that of the first embodiment, and thus a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0108] In Figure 7 In the example shown, the power generation system 10 includes a power generation unit group formed by a plurality of power generation units including fuel cell stacks. This power generation unit group is grouped by a plurality of power generation units. In addition, although not shown in the drawings, each of these power generation units is composed of a fuel cell stack, a power conditioner for converting the direct current generated by the fuel cell stack into alternating current and outputting it to the power system, and a control device for controlling the operation of these devices.

[0109] In this example, the power generation unit group is grouped by the power generation units a1 to an belonging to group A, the power generation units b1 to bn belonging to group B, the power generation units c1 to cn belonging to group C, the power generation units d1 to dn belonging to group D, and the power generation units e1 to en belonging to group E respectively. All the power generation units belonging to one group are also simply referred to as "the power generation units within the group". In addition, in this example, each group corresponds to the fuel cell device of the present disclosure.

[0110] However, the above configuration of the power generation unit group is an example and is not limited to this example. For example, the power generation unit group may also be grouped by the power generation units of a single group.

[0111] The control devices 30A to 30E are respectively provided for the power generation units a1 to an of group A, the power generation units b1 to bn of group B, the power generation units c1 to cn of group C, the power generation units d1 to dn of group D, and the power generation units e1 to en of group E, and control the operations of the power generation units within the group respectively.

[0112] For example, the control device 30A controls the outputs of the power generation units a1 to an belonging to group A via a communication network so that these power generation units a1 to an can operate efficiently (for example, optimize the service life).

[0113] The control devices 30A to 30E only need to have a control function, and include an arithmetic processing unit (not shown), a storage unit for storing a control program, and a communicator. By reading the control program stored in the storage unit by the arithmetic processing unit and executing it, predetermined control is performed in the control devices 30A to 30E. As the arithmetic processing unit, for example, a microprocessor can be exemplified. As the storage unit, for example, a memory can be exemplified.

[0114] The power generation planning device 20, for example, according to the output expectations of external users, etc., instructs various information such as the power generation plans of each group to the control devices 30A to 30E via a communication network. Each of the control devices 30A to 30E adjusts the number of power generation units that generate power among the multiple power generation units belonging to each group according to the power generation output in the received power generation plan.

[0115] The effects achieved by the power generation system 10 of the present embodiment are the same as those described in any one of the first embodiment, the first to third examples of the first embodiment, and the modified example of the first embodiment, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

[0116] The configuration of the power generation system 10 described above is an example and is not limited to this example. For example, the controller 23 of the power generation planning device 20 (refer to Figure 1 ) may directly control the operations of the respective power generation units in the group without passing through the control devices 30A to 30E.

[0117] The first embodiment, the first to third examples of the first embodiment, the modified example of the first embodiment, and the second embodiment may be combined with each other as long as they do not exclude each other. Based on the above description, many improvements and other embodiments of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the above description should be construed as illustrative only and is provided for the purpose of teaching those skilled in the art the preferred method of implementing the present disclosure. The details of its structure and / or function may be substantially changed without departing from the gist of the present disclosure.

[0118] Industrial Applicability

[0119] One aspect of the present disclosure can be applied to a power generation planning method for a fuel cell device, a power generation planning device for a fuel cell device, and a power generation system that can plan more appropriately than in the past in the power generation planning of a fuel cell device.

[0120] Description of Reference Numerals

[0121] 10: Power generation system

[0122] 15: Fuel cell device

[0123] 20: Power generation planning device

[0124] 21: Communicator

[0125] 22: Memory

[0126] 23: Controller

[0127] 30A: Control device

[0128] 30B: Control device

[0129] 30C: Control device

[0130] 30D: Control device

[0131] 30E: Control device

[0132] a1 to an: Power generation units

[0133] b1 to bn: power generation units

[0134] c1 to cn: power generation units

[0135] d1 to dn: power generation units

[0136] e1 to en: power generation units.

Claims

1. A method for generating a power generation plan for a fuel cell device, comprising the following steps: A step of receiving a power generation plan for the fuel cell device; A step of storing the received power generation plan for the fuel cell device; And When a next power generation plan is not received and the remaining period of the stored power generation plan is shorter than a predetermined period, a step of adding a power generation plan using the data of the stored power generation plan so that the remaining period of the power generation plan becomes equal to or longer than the predetermined period.

2. The method for generating a power generation plan for a fuel cell device according to claim 1, By repeating the data of the last unit period of the stored power generation plan, the remaining period of the power generation plan is made equal to or longer than the predetermined period.

3. The method for generating a power generation plan for a fuel cell device according to claim 1, By extracting data of a period corresponding to the difference between the predetermined period and the remaining period from the stored power generation plan and adding the data, the remaining period of the power generation plan is made equal to or longer than the predetermined period.

4. A method for generating a power generation plan for a fuel cell device, Comprising a step of receiving first information indicating which one of the power generation plan method according to claim 2 and the power generation plan method according to claim 3 is selected, Performing one of the power generation plan addition method according to claim 2 and the power generation plan addition method according to claim 3 based on the first information.

5. The method for generating a power generation plan for a fuel cell device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, Comprising a step of receiving second information indicating that the addition of the power generation plan is not performed, When the second information is received, the addition of the power generation plan is not performed.

6. A power generation plan device for a fuel cell device, comprising: A communicator that receives a power generation plan for the fuel cell device; A memory that stores the received power generation plan for the fuel cell device; and A controller that, when a next power generation plan is not received via the communicator and the remaining period of the power generation plan stored in the memory is shorter than a predetermined period, adds a power generation plan using the data of the power generation plan stored in the memory so that the remaining period of the power generation plan becomes equal to or longer than the predetermined period.

7. A power generation system, comprising: A fuel cell device; and The power generation plan device for the fuel cell device according to claim 6.

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