Heat generating structure and heat generating device

Abstract

Provided is a heat generating structure and a heat generating device that can homogenize the temperature distribution of a heat generating body and increase the area of a heat generating surface. A heat generating structure (8) includes a heat generating body (14) having a support body formed of a hydrogen storage metal, a hydrogen storage alloy, or a proton conductor, and a multilayer film provided to the support body and generating heat through absorption and release of hydrogen, and a heater (15) formed in a cylindrical shape and having an outer peripheral surface (15a) surrounded by the heat generating body (14). The heat generating body (14) has an inner edge portion (51) disposed opposite the outer peripheral surface (15a), an outer edge portion (52) disposed farther from the outer peripheral surface (15a) than the inner edge portion (51) in a second direction orthogonal to a first direction along a central axis (CL) of the heater, and a heat generating surface (53) connecting the inner edge portion (51) and the outer edge portion (52) and extending continuously in a circumferential direction centered on the central axis (CL), and the heat generating body (14) transmits heat from the inner edge portion (51) to the outer edge portion (52) through thermal conduction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a heating structure and a heating device. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, a heating device has been proposed, comprising: a sealed container for supplying hydrogen-containing gas; a heating element that generates heat through the absorption and release of hydrogen; and a cylindrical heater (see Patent Document 1). The heating element is a wound heating element constructed by winding a plate-shaped component into a vortex shape, which is configured to cover a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the heater. The heating element and the heater are housed in the sealed container. The heating element has a base formed of a hydrogen-absorbing metal, a hydrogen-absorbing alloy, or a proton conductor, and a multilayer film disposed on the base. The multilayer film has a first layer formed of a hydrogen-absorbing metal or a hydrogen-absorbing alloy with a thickness of less than 1000 nm, and a second layer formed of a hydrogen-absorbing metal, a hydrogen-absorbing alloy, or a ceramic different from the first layer, with a thickness of less than 1000 nm. A heterogeneous material interface is formed between the first layer and the second layer. In the heating device of Patent Document 1, after the heating element absorbs hydrogen, the inside of the sealed container is evacuated and the heating element is heated, so that the hydrogen diffuses through the interface of the different substances in the heating element through quantum diffusion, or the hydrogen diffuses at the interface of the different substances through quantum diffusion, thereby generating excess heat.

[0003] On the other hand, the inventors of this application discovered a correlation between the temperature of the heating element and the generation of excess heat, and that the higher the temperature of the heating element, the more excess heat is tended to be generated. If the temperature of the heating element is too high, the heating element will reach its melting point and be damaged. Therefore, when heating the heating element with a heater, it is desirable to keep the temperature of the heating element uniform and to reach a high temperature without damage.

[0004] Existing technical documents Patent documents Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2023 / 149220 Summary of the Invention

[0005] The problem the invention aims to solve Heating elements can increase heat generation by increasing the area of ​​the heating surface, which is composed of a multilayer film. Inside a vacuum-sealed container, heat transfer via gas convection cannot be expected. Therefore, heat is transferred from the heater to the heating element via radiation, and within the heating element, heat is transferred from the high-temperature side to the low-temperature side via thermal conduction. This presents the following problem: the larger the area of ​​the heating surface of the heating element, the easier it is for a temperature difference to form between the high-temperature and low-temperature sides. Furthermore, when multiple heating elements are arranged inside a sealed container, the heating surfaces of the heating elements come into contact with each other, leading to a decrease in heat generation or welding problems due to thermal diffusion of the metal.

[0006] In the heating device of Patent Document 1, the outer peripheral surface of a cylindrical heater is surrounded by a wound heating element, which enables the wound heating element to be heated efficiently by the heater. However, in the heating device of Patent Document 1, the radiant heat from the heater is difficult to transfer to the outer peripheral portion of the wound heating element in the vortex direction. Therefore, a temperature difference occurs between the inner and outer peripheral portions of the wound heating element in the vortex direction, making it difficult to achieve a uniform temperature distribution in the wound heating element. Furthermore, the more turns of the wound heating element, the greater the temperature difference between the inner and outer peripheral portions, making it difficult to increase the area of ​​the heating surface.

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to provide a heating structure and heating device that can uniformly distribute the temperature of the heating element and increase the heating surface area.

[0008] means for solving problems The heating structure of the present invention comprises: a heating element having a support formed of a hydrogen-absorbing metal, a hydrogen-absorbing alloy, or a proton conductor, and a multilayer film disposed on the support and generating heat through the absorption and release of hydrogen; and a heater formed in a cylindrical shape and having an outer peripheral surface surrounded by the heating element, the multilayer film having a first layer formed of a hydrogen-absorbing metal or a hydrogen-absorbing alloy with a thickness of less than 1000 nm, and a second layer formed of a hydrogen-absorbing metal, a hydrogen-absorbing alloy, or a ceramic different from the first layer with a thickness of less than 1000 nm, the heating element having: an inner edge portion disposed opposite to the outer peripheral surface; an outer edge portion disposed in a second direction that is farther away from the outer peripheral surface than the inner edge portion than the outer peripheral surface, the second direction being orthogonal to a first direction along the central axis of the heater; and a heating surface connecting the inner edge portion and the outer edge portion and extending continuously in a circumferential direction centered on the central axis, the heating element transferring heat from the inner edge portion to the outer edge portion by thermal conduction.

[0009] The heating device of the present invention comprises: the heating structure described above; a sealed container that houses the heating structure inside; a supply section that supplies hydrogen-based gas containing the hydrogen to the interior of the sealed container; and a discharge section that discharges the hydrogen-based gas from the interior of the sealed container.

[0010] The effects of the invention According to the present invention, the temperature distribution of the heating element can be made more uniform, and the area of ​​the heating surface can be increased. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 This is a conceptual diagram that schematically illustrates the configuration of the heat utilization system of the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of the heating structure of the first embodiment.

[0013] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the heating element.

[0014] Figure 4 This is a graph showing the temperature distribution of the heating structure according to the first embodiment.

[0015] Figure 5 This is an exploded perspective view of the heating structure of the second embodiment.

[0016] Figure 6 This is a conceptual diagram that schematically illustrates the configuration of the heat utilization system according to the third embodiment.

[0017] Figure 7 It is along Figure 6 A schematic cross-sectional view of the heating structure along line VII-VII.

[0018] Figure 8 This is an exploded perspective view of the heating structure of the third embodiment.

[0019] Figure 9 This is a graph showing the temperature distribution of the heating structure according to the third embodiment.

[0020] Figure 10 This is a conceptual diagram that schematically illustrates the configuration of the heat utilization system according to the fourth embodiment.

[0021] Figure 11 This is a conceptual diagram that schematically illustrates the configuration of the heat utilization system according to the fifth embodiment.

[0022] Figure 12 This is a conceptual diagram that schematically illustrates the configuration of the heat utilization system according to the sixth embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0023] Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description and drawings, common components are labeled with common symbols. For components labeled with common symbols, descriptions are omitted where appropriate.

[0024] (1) Heat utilization system of the first embodiment exist Figure 1 In the heat utilization system 1, there are: a piping path 2 through which the heating medium flows; a heating device 3 for heating the heating medium flowing in the piping path 2; and a heat utilization device 4 for using the heating medium heated by the heating device 3 as a heat source. The heating device 3 and the heat utilization device 4 are assembled in the piping path 2. The piping path 2 forms a closed circulation path between the heating device 3 and the heat utilization device 4.

[0025] As a heat transfer medium, either a gas or a liquid can be used, with a preference for heat transfer media that have excellent thermal conductivity and are chemically stable. Examples of gases include helium, argon, hydrogen, nitrogen, water vapor, air, and carbon dioxide. Examples of liquids include water, molten salts (KNO3 (40%) – NaNO3 (60%), etc.), and liquid metals (Pb, etc.). Alternatively, a multiphase heat transfer medium in which solid particles are dispersed in a gas or liquid can also be used. These solid particles can be metals, metal compounds, alloys, ceramics, etc. Examples of metals include Cu, Ni, Ti, and Co. Examples of metal compounds include oxides, nitrides, and silicides of the aforementioned metals. Examples of alloys include stainless steel and chromium-molybdenum steel. Examples of ceramics include alumina. In this embodiment, helium is used as the heat transfer medium, but appropriate modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0026] The heating device 3 includes a hollow sealed container 5, a hydrogen tank 6 connected to the sealed container 5, a vacuum pump 7 connected to the sealed container 5, and a heating structure 8 housed in the sealed container 5.

[0027] The sealed container 5 possesses heat resistance and pressure resistance. The sealed container 5 is formed, for example, from stainless steel or heat-resistant non-ferrous alloy steel. The material used for the sealed container 5 is appropriate for the operating temperature; for example, stainless steel is used when the operating temperature reaches approximately 700°C, and heat-resistant non-ferrous alloy steel is used when the operating temperature exceeds 700°C. The sealed container 5 is cylindrical. The sealed container 5 consists of a main body, an upper cover located at the upper end of the main body, and a lower cover located at the lower end of the main body. The upper end of the main body is hermetically sealed by the upper cover, and the lower end of the main body is hermetically sealed by the lower cover, thereby dividing the interior of the sealed container 5 into a space 9. The shape of the sealed container 5 is not limited to a cylindrical shape; it can also be an elliptical cylinder, a triangular cylinder, a sphere, etc. Furthermore, in the heating device 3, the upper cover side of the sealed container 5 is designated as the upper side, and the lower cover side of the sealed container 5 is designated as the lower side.

[0028] The heating device 3 has an inlet pipe 10 connecting the sealed container 5 and the hydrogen tank 6, and an exhaust pipe 11 connecting the sealed container 5 and the vacuum pump 7. The inlet pipe 10 extends from the lower cover of the sealed container 5 and connects to the hydrogen tank 6, forming an inlet path that guides the hydrogen gas stored in the hydrogen tank 6 into the space 9 inside the sealed container 5. The exhaust pipe 11 extends from the upper cover of the sealed container 5 and connects to the vacuum pump 7, forming an exhaust path that guides the hydrogen gas drawn from the space 9 inside the sealed container 5 by the vacuum pump 7.

[0029] The inlet pipe 10 has a supply valve 12 located between the sealed container 5 and the hydrogen tank 6. The supply valve 12 adjusts the flow rate of the hydrogen gas flowing in the inlet pipe 10. The supply valve 12 may be, for example, a solenoid valve or a pneumatic valve. The inlet pipe 10 may also have a pressure sensor that detects the pressure of the hydrogen gas flowing in the inlet pipe 10.

[0030] The exhaust pipe 11 has an exhaust valve 13 located between the sealed container 5 and the vacuum pump 7. The exhaust valve 13 adjusts the flow rate of hydrogen gas flowing in the exhaust pipe 11. The exhaust valve 13 may be, for example, a solenoid valve or a pneumatic valve. The exhaust pipe 11 may also have a pressure sensor that detects the pressure of the hydrogen gas flowing in the exhaust pipe 11.

[0031] When the exhaust valve 13 is closed and the supply valve 12 is open, hydrogen gas can be supplied from the hydrogen tank 6 to the internal space 9 of the sealed container 5. When the supply valve 12 is closed and the exhaust valve 13 is open, the hydrogen gas in the internal space 9 of the sealed container 5 can be discharged by the vacuum pump 7.

[0032] Hydrogen tank 6 stores hydrogen-based gases. In this example, when supply valve 12 is opened, hydrogen-based gases are supplied from the high-pressure hydrogen tank 6 to the internal space 9 of the low-pressure sealed container 5 via inlet pipe 10. Hydrogen-based gases are gases containing hydrogen isotopes. At least one of deuterium and protium is used as the hydrogen-based gas. Protium is a naturally occurring mixture of protium and deuterium, specifically a mixture with a protium content of 99.985% and a deuterium content of 0.015%. Inlet pipe 10 may also include a pump to deliver the hydrogen-based gases stored in hydrogen tank 6 to the internal space 9 of the sealed container 5.

[0033] The vacuum pump 7 discharges hydrogen-based gases from the interior of the sealed container 5 via the exhaust pipe 11. By driving the vacuum pump 7, the space 9 inside the sealed container 5 is depressurized. The vacuum pump 7 is, for example, composed of a turbomolecular pump and a dry pump. The turbomolecular pump adjusts the rotational speed of its turbine blades based on a control signal input from the control unit 21 (described later). The depressurization rate of the space 9 is adjusted according to the rotational speed of the turbomolecular pump.

[0034] The heating element 8 heats the heat medium flowing along the outer surface of the sealed container 5 via the sealed container 5. The temperature of the heat medium after being heated by the heating element 8 reaches, for example, a range of 50°C to 1500°C. In this example, the temperature of the heat medium is set to 700°C.

[0035] The heating structure 8 includes: a heating element 14 that generates heat through the absorption and release of hydrogen; a heater 15 that heats the heating element 14; and a temperature sensor 17 that detects the temperature of the heating element 14.

[0036] The heating element 14 is formed as a plate with a through hole. In this embodiment, the heating element 14 is formed as an annular shape with a circular through hole in the center. A heater 15 is disposed in the through hole of the heating element 14. The heating element 14 is positioned along the central axis CL of the heater 15 (see reference). Figure 2Multiple heating elements 14 are arranged parallel to the first direction. That is, the heating structure 8 has multiple heating elements 14 arranged along the first direction. Furthermore, the heating elements 14 are not limited to a circular shape, but may also be polygonal rings, etc. The configuration of the heating elements 14 will be explained later using other figures.

[0037] The heater 15 is formed as a hollow or solid cylinder. In this embodiment, the heater 15 is formed as a solid cylinder and has a uniform diameter along its entire length in a first direction along the central axis CL. Furthermore, "uniform" refers not only to uniformity in a strict sense, but also to a generally uniform situation, i.e., different situations within the scope of the inventive intent. The shape of the heater 15 is not limited to a cylinder; other suitable shapes such as an elliptical cylinder or a square cylinder may also be used. As a cylindrical heater 15, a sheathed heater, a ceramic heater, a lamp heater, etc., are used. For example, a sheathed heater has a configuration in which a heating wire wound into a spiral shape is housed within a metal tube. The heating wire is disposed within the tube in portions other than those at predetermined distances from both ends of the tube's axial direction. A pair of terminals connected to a power source are connected to both ends of the heating wire. The pair of terminals extend from the inside of the tube to the outside. The heating wire generates Joule heat by applying current from the power source via the pair of terminals. The tube is heated by the Joule heat generated by the heating wire.

[0038] The heater 15 has an outer peripheral surface 15a surrounded by the heating element 14. In this embodiment, the outer peripheral surface 15a is a cylindrical surface. The heater 15 generates radiant heat from the outer peripheral surface 15a.

[0039] The heater 15 has a pair of electrode portions 20. The pair of electrode portions 20 are connected to a conductive wire 18. The conductive wire 18 is connected to a power source 19, and electrically connects the pair of electrode portions 20 to the power source 19. The heater 15 is supplied with electricity from the power source 19 via the conductive wire 18 and the pair of electrode portions 20, thereby raising the temperature of its outer peripheral surface 15a. The heater 15 heats the heating element 14 through radiant heat generated from the outer peripheral surface 15a. Figure 1 In this configuration, a pair of electrode portions 20 are disposed at both ends of the heater 15, but they can also be disposed at one end or the other end of the heater 15. Figure 1 In this container, a pair of electrode portions 20 extend from the inside to the outside of the sealed container 5, but they can also be housed inside the sealed container 5. For example, a pair of connecting terminals can be provided on the upper and lower covers of the sealed container 5, and the pair of connecting terminals can be connected to the conductive wire 18 outside the sealed container 5, while the pair of electrode portions 20 can be connected to the pair of connecting terminals inside the sealed container 5.

[0040] Temperature sensor 17 outputs a detection signal that determines the detected temperature. Temperature sensor 17 may include, for example, a thermocouple embedded in heating element 14. The thermocouple outputs a voltage that determines the detected temperature.

[0041] The heating device 3 includes a control unit 21 that is electrically connected to the vacuum pump 7, the supply valve 12, the exhaust valve 13, the temperature sensor 17, and the power supply 19. The control unit 21 may include, for example, a microprocessor (MPU) that performs arithmetic processing based on an application stored in a read-only memory (ROM) or other storage unit, and a random access memory (RAM) that temporarily holds the program or data during arithmetic processing.

[0042] The control unit 21 outputs control signals to control the operation of the vacuum pump 7, supply valve 12, exhaust valve 13, and power supply 19, respectively. The vacuum pump 7, supply valve 12, exhaust valve 13, and power supply 19 operate based on the control signals input from the control unit 21.

[0043] The control unit 21 discharges hydrogen gas from the internal space 9 of the sealed container 5 by closing the supply valve 12, opening the exhaust valve 13, and driving the vacuum pump 7 (vacuum exhaust).

[0044] The control unit 21 supplies hydrogen gas to the internal space 9 of the sealed container 5 by stopping the drive of the vacuum pump 7, closing the exhaust valve 13, and opening the supply valve 12.

[0045] The control unit 21 adjusts the amount of power supplied from the power source 19 to the heater 15 via the conductive wire 18 and a pair of electrode sections 20 by controlling the output of the power source 19. By controlling the output of the power source 19, the temperature of the heating element 14 heated by the heater 15 can be adjusted, and the heating element 14 can be maintained within a suitable heating temperature range (e.g., 50°C to 1500°C).

[0046] In the heating device 3, a hydrogen supply section consisting of a hydrogen tank 6, an inlet pipe 10, and a supply valve 12 supplies hydrogen-containing gas to the interior of the sealed container 5. In the heating device 3, a vacuum pump 7, an exhaust pipe 11, and an exhaust valve 13 constitute an exhaust section for discharging hydrogen-containing gas from the interior of the sealed container 5.

[0047] The heat utilization device 4 includes: a container 41 containing a sealed container 5 for housing a heating device 3; a first power generation unit 42 that generates electricity based on a heat medium (helium in this example) heated by the heating device 3 inside the container 41; a pressure pump 43 that delivers the heat medium from the first power generation unit 42 to the container 41; and a flow control valve 44 disposed between the pressure pump 43 and the container 41.

[0048] The container 41 has heat insulation and pressure resistance. The container 41 is formed, for example, of stainless steel or heat-resistant non-ferrous alloy steel. The material used for the container 41 is appropriate for the operating temperature; for example, stainless steel is used when the operating temperature reaches approximately 700°C, and heat-resistant non-ferrous alloy steel is used when the operating temperature exceeds 700°C. The container 41 has an inlet 41a for the inflow of the heating medium and an outlet 41b for the outflow of the heating medium. The heating medium flowing into the container 41 from the inlet 41a flows along the outer surface of the sealed container 5 of the heating device 3 housed inside the container 41 and is heated by the heating structure 8 housed within the sealed container 5. The temperature of the heating medium inside the container 41 rises, resulting in a high-temperature heating medium. The high-temperature heating medium flows out from the outlet 41b of the container 41 and into the first power generation unit 42.

[0049] The first power generation unit 42 includes: a compressor (not shown) that compresses a high-temperature heat medium supplied from a container 41; a gas turbine 42a driven by the high-temperature, high-pressure heat medium compressed by the compressor; and a generator 42b connected to the gas turbine 42a. In the first power generation unit 42, the temperature of the heat medium is adjusted to, for example, a range of 600°C to 1500°C. The output shaft of the gas turbine 42a is connected to the input shaft of the generator 42b. The rotation of the turbine blades of the gas turbine 42a drives the rotor of the generator 42b, generating electricity (power generation) in the generator 42b. The heat medium, after its heat has been utilized in the first power generation unit 42, flows out of the first power generation unit 42 and into a pressure pump 43.

[0050] The pressure pump 43 delivers the heat medium supplied from the first power generation unit 42 to the container 41 at a predetermined pressure. The pressure pump 43 may be, for example, a metal bellows pump.

[0051] The flow control valve 44 adjusts the flow rate of the hot medium flowing from the pressure pump 43 to the container 41. The flow control valve 44 may be, for example, a variable leakage valve.

[0052] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of the heating structure 8 according to the first embodiment. (See attached image.) Figure 2As shown, the heating element 14 has: an inner edge portion 51, which is disposed opposite to the outer peripheral surface 15a of the heater 15; an outer edge portion 52, which is disposed in a second direction that is farther away from the outer peripheral surface 15a than the inner edge portion 51, the second direction being orthogonal to a first direction along the central axis CL of the heater 15; and a heating surface 53, which connects the inner edge portion 51 and the outer edge portion 52 and extends continuously in the circumferential direction centered on the central axis CL. The inner edge portion 51 and the outer edge portion 52 extend continuously in the circumferential direction centered on the central axis CL of the heater 15. The heating surface 53 is disposed in a plane orthogonal to the first direction along the central axis CL of the heater 15. "Continuous" means that they are connected as one unit in the circumferential direction centered on the central axis CL. The second direction is a radial direction (also called a radial direction) centered on the central axis CL.

[0053] The inner edge portion 51 is arranged around the circumference. A through hole of the heating element 14 is formed through the inner edge portion 51. The inner edge portion 51 is located at a position separating from the outer peripheral surface 15a of the heater 15 in a second direction. A gap is formed between the inner edge portion 51 of the heating element 14 and the outer peripheral surface 15a of the heater 15. The diameter of the inner edge portion 51 is larger than the diameter of the heater 15. The diameter of the inner edge portion 51 is the inner diameter of the heating element 14. For example, when the heating element 14 is a polygonal ring, the inner diameter of the heating element 14 is the diameter of the inscribed circle of the inner edge portion 51.

[0054] The outer edge portion 52 is arranged around the circumference. The outer edge portion 52 is located at a position separating from the inner surface (inner surface of the main body) of the sealed container 5 in a second direction. A gap is formed between the outer edge portion 52 of the heating element 14 and the inner surface of the sealed container 5. The diameter of the outer edge portion 52 is smaller than the inner diameter of the sealed container 5. The inner diameter of the sealed container 5 is the diameter of the inner surface of the main body. The diameter of the outer edge portion 52 is the outer diameter of the heating element 14. For example, when the heating element 14 is a polygonal ring, the outer diameter of the heating element 14 is the diameter of the circumcircle of the outer edge portion 52.

[0055] The heating surface 53 extends continuously from the inner edge portion 51 to the outer edge portion 52. That is, the heating surface 53 extends continuously in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. The heating surface 53 is formed in a ring shape. The heating surface 53 is the multilayer film 62 described later (see reference). Figure 3 The larger the area of ​​the heating surface 53 of the heating element 14, the greater the heat generation. The heat generation of the heating element 14 refers to the heat generated by hydrogen atoms through quantum diffusion through the heterogeneous material interface 73 (described later) or by hydrogen atoms diffusing at the heterogeneous material interface 73 through quantum diffusion.

[0056] The heating element 14 receives radiant heat generated from the outer peripheral surface 15a of the heater 15 via its inner edge portion 51. The temperature of the inner edge portion 51 rises due to the radiant heat from the outer peripheral surface 15a of the heater 15. The heat from the inner edge portion 51 is transferred to the outer edge portion 52 via thermal conduction. That is, the heating element 14 transfers heat from the inner edge portion 51 to the outer edge portion 52 via thermal conduction. The temperature of the outer edge portion 52 rises due to the thermal conduction from the inner edge portion 51. As a result, the temperature difference between the inner edge portion 51 and the outer edge portion 52 decreases, and the temperature distribution of the heating element 14 is made more uniform.

[0057] The heating structure 8 includes spacers 55 disposed between adjacent heating elements 14 of a plurality of heating elements 14 arranged along a first direction. The spacers 55 are formed of a material with heat resistance and pressure resistance. The spacers 55 form spaces between adjacent heating elements 14 and prevent adjacent heating elements 14 from contacting each other. The spacers 55 are used for positioning the plurality of heating elements 14 in the first direction.

[0058] The spacer 55 abuts against the outer peripheral surface 15a of the heater 15. The spacer 55 is formed in a ring shape. The heater 15 is inserted into an opening formed by the inner edge of the spacer 55. The spacer 55 is fixed to the outer peripheral surface 15a of the heater 15 by abutting against its inner edge. In this embodiment, the spacer 55 is formed in a ring shape. However, the spacer 55 is not limited to a ring shape, and may also be a polygonal ring shape, etc.

[0059] Next, the structure of the heating element 14 will be explained. Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the heating element 14. (See diagram below.) Figure 3As shown, the heating element 14 has a support 61 (also called a base) formed of a hydrogen-absorbing metal, hydrogen-absorbing alloy, or proton conductor, and a multilayer film 62 disposed on the support 61. The multilayer film 62 has a first layer 71 formed of a hydrogen-absorbing metal or hydrogen-absorbing alloy with a thickness of less than 1000 nm, and a second layer 72 formed of a hydrogen-absorbing metal, hydrogen-absorbing alloy, or ceramic different from the first layer 71, with a thickness of less than 1000 nm. A heterogeneous material interface 73 is formed between the first layer 71 and the second layer 72, and between the support 61 and the multilayer film 62. The heterogeneous material interface 73 allows hydrogen atoms to pass through. In the heating element 14, hydrogen atoms pass through the heterogeneous material interface 73 through quantum diffusion, or hydrogen atoms diffuse at the heterogeneous material interface 73 through quantum diffusion, thereby generating excess heat. As the heating element 14, the heating elements disclosed in International Publications WO2018 / 230447, WO2020 / 122097, and WO2020 / 122098 can be used. The detailed structure, function, and manufacturing method of the heating element 14 are the same as those disclosed in International Publications WO2018 / 230447, WO2020 / 122097, and WO2020 / 122098, therefore, the description is omitted here.

[0060] exist Figure 3 In this case, the multilayer film 62 is configured to be stacked on one side (e.g., the surface) of the support body 61, but is not limited thereto. The multilayer film 62 may also be configured to be stacked on another side (e.g., the back side) of the support body 61, or the multilayer film 62 may also be configured to be stacked on both sides (the surface and the back side) of the support body 61.

[0061] The function and effect of the heating device 3 in this embodiment will be explained. First, the sealed container 5 is opened, the heating structure 8 is placed inside the sealed container 5, and the sealed container 5 is sealed. A pair of electrode portions 20 of the heating structure 8 are connected to the power supply 19 via conductive wire 18. The exhaust valve 13 is opened, and the vacuum pump 7 is driven. The space 9 inside the sealed container 5 is evacuated. The driving of the vacuum pump 7 is stopped, the exhaust valve 13 is closed, and the power supply 19 is driven. Power is supplied from the power supply 19 to the heater 15 via conductive wire 18 and a pair of electrode portions 20. The heater 15 is heated by the supplied power, causing the temperature of its outer peripheral surface 15a to rise. The heating element 14 receives radiant heat generated from the outer peripheral surface 15a of the heater 15 through its inner edge portion 51. The temperature of the inner edge portion 51 rises due to the radiant heat from the outer peripheral surface 15a of the heater 15. In the heating element 14, the inner edge portion 51 and the outer edge portion 52 are continuously connected through the heating surface 53, and the heat of the inner edge portion 51 is transferred to the outer edge portion 52 through heat conduction. The outer edge 52 experiences a temperature increase due to heat conduction from the inner edge 51. The temperature difference between the inner edge 51 and the outer edge 52 decreases, and the temperature distribution of the heating element 14 becomes more uniform. Thus, the temperature of the heating element 14 can be uniformly raised to a specific temperature. For example, by setting the temperature of the heating element 14 to approximately 200°C, moisture in the heating element 14 can be removed.

[0062] Next, the output of power supply 19 is increased, further raising the temperature of heating element 14. For example, the temperature of heating element 14 is set to approximately 300°C. Supply valve 12 is opened. Hydrogen gas flows from hydrogen tank 6 into space 9 inside sealed container 5. Space 9 inside sealed container 5 is filled with hydrogen gas. Heating element 14 absorbs hydrogen. Specifically, hydrogen molecules in space 9 are adsorbed onto the surface of multilayer film 62 of heating element 14 (the side opposite to support 61), and the hydrogen molecule dissociates into two hydrogen atoms. Then, the dissociated hydrogen atoms penetrate (absorb) into the interior of multilayer film 62.

[0063] After the heating element 14 absorbs hydrogen, the supply valve 12 is closed. The output of the control power supply 19 is set to any temperature within the optimal heating temperature range (e.g., around 700°C). At this time, the exhaust valve 13 is opened, and the vacuum pump 7 is driven. Hydrogen-based gases are discharged from the space 9 inside the sealed container 5. The heating element 14 releases hydrogen. Specifically, hydrogen atoms that have penetrated into the multilayer film 62 return to the surface of the multilayer film 62 and recombine, being released as hydrogen molecules. As a result, hydrogen atoms diffuse through the heterogeneous material interface 73 via quantum diffusion, or diffuse within the heterogeneous material interface 73 via quantum diffusion, generating excess heat in the heating element 14.

[0064] In the heating structure 8 of this embodiment, the inner edge 51 and outer edge 52 of the heating element 14 are connected by a heating surface 53, which extends continuously in the circumferential direction centered on the central axis CL of the heater 15. The inner edge 51 of the heating element 14 is heated by radiant heat generated from the outer peripheral surface 15a of the heater 15. At this time, the heat from the inner edge 51 is transferred to the outer edge 52 through heat conduction within the heating element 14. As a result, heat is transferred to the entire heating element 14, and the temperature difference between the inner edge 51 and the outer edge 52 of the heating element 14 is reduced. Therefore, the heating structure 8 can achieve a uniform temperature distribution in the heating element 14.

[0065] The results of analyzing the temperature distribution of the heating structure 8 are shown in Figure 4 The temperature from the central axis CL of the heater 15 to the inner surface of the sealed container 5 was analyzed in a cross-section including the central axis CL of the heater 15 and the inner edge 51 and outer edge 52 of the heating element 14. Simulations of heat conduction and radiation were performed using commercially available thermal analysis software. The power supplied to the heater 15 from the power source 19 was set to 400W. Figure 4 In the diagram, the horizontal axis represents the position in the radial direction (radial direction) centered on the central axis CL of heater 15, and the vertical axis represents the temperature. Figure 4 It can be confirmed that the temperature of the inner edge 51 and the temperature of the outer edge 52 of the heating element 14 are approximately 550°C, and the temperature distribution of the heating element 14 is homogenized. This is believed to be because the inner edge 51 and the outer edge 52 of the heating element 14 are continuously connected through the heating surface 53, so that heat is transferred to the entire heating element 14, and the temperature difference between the inner edge 51 and the outer edge 52 becomes smaller.

[0066] In the heating structure 8, since multiple heating elements 14 are arranged along the first direction, the total area obtained by adding the areas of each heating surface 53 increases, thus increasing the heat generation. The heating structure 8 can easily increase the total area of ​​the heating surface 53 simply by increasing the number of heating elements 14. The heating structure 8 can easily increase or decrease the heat generation by changing the number of heating elements 14.

[0067] In the heating structure 8, spacers 55 are provided between adjacent heating elements 14 arranged along the first direction, creating spaces between them and preventing them from contacting each other. This suppresses heat loss due to contact between the heating surfaces 53 of the heating elements 14 and prevents fusion between the heating elements 14 due to thermal diffusion of the metal. Each heating element 14 is efficiently heated by radiant heat from adjacent heating elements 14, reaching a suitable heating temperature in a shorter time.

[0068] The function and effects of the heat utilization system 1 in this embodiment will be explained. In the piping path 2, helium gas, serving as the heat medium, flows into the container 41 via the pressure pump 43. In the container 41, heat is transferred from the heating device 3 to the helium gas, causing its temperature to rise. The high-temperature helium gas flowing out of the container 41 flows into the compressor (not shown) of the first power generation unit 42. The high-temperature, high-pressure helium gas flowing out of the compressor flows into the gas turbine 42a, causing the turbine blades of the gas turbine 42a to rotate. The rotation of the turbine blades is transmitted to the rotor of the generator 42b. Electricity is generated in the generator 42b.

[0069] The thermal energy of the helium is consumed by the rotation of the turbine blades in the gas turbine 42a. Within the gas turbine 42a, the temperature and pressure of the helium decrease. The helium flowing out of the gas turbine 42a is drawn into the pressure pump 43. Helium is then pumped from the pressure pump 43 into the container 41. Power generation continues based on the helium cycle.

[0070] As described above, the heat utilization system 1 utilizes the heat medium heated by the heating device 3, which has a heating element 14 that generates heat through the absorption and release of hydrogen, as a heat source, thus enabling it to supply energy cheaply, cleanly, and safely.

[0071] In the heat utilization system 1, with the heater 15 as the center, the heating element 14 is configured to cover the outer peripheral surface 15a, the sealed container 5 is configured to cover the heating element 14, and the storage container 41 is configured to cover the sealed container 5. Therefore, the heating element 14 can be heated efficiently by the heater 15, and the heat medium can be heated efficiently by the heating element 14.

[0072] (2) Heating structure of the second embodiment In the first embodiment described above, a spacer 55 is provided between adjacent heating elements 14 among a plurality of heating elements 14 arranged along the first direction. In the second embodiment, in addition to the spacer, a pair of end members are provided adjacent to the heating elements 14 arranged at their ends in the first direction.

[0073] Figure 5 This is an exploded perspective view of the heating structure 8a according to the second embodiment. The heating structure 8a can be used in place of the heating structure 8 in the heating device 3 of the first embodiment. Furthermore, for components and parts that are the same or equivalent to those in the first embodiment described above, the same reference numerals are used and descriptions are omitted.

[0074] like Figure 5 As shown, the heating structure 8a includes a heating element 14, a heater 15, and a temperature sensor 17 (not shown). Multiple heating elements 14 are arranged along a first direction of the central axis CL of the heater 15.

[0075] The heating structure 8a includes: a spacer 75 disposed between adjacent heating elements 14 of a plurality of heating elements 14 arranged along a first direction; and a pair of end members 76 disposed adjacent to a heating element 14 disposed at the end of the plurality of heating elements 14 arranged along the first direction.

[0076] The spacer 75 is formed of a material that is heat-resistant and pressure-resistant. The spacer 75 forms a space between adjacent heating elements 14. The spacer 75 prevents adjacent heating elements 14 from contacting. The spacer 75 is used for positioning the plurality of heating elements 14 in a first direction. The spacer 75 has a first frame portion 78 and a first protrusion 79.

[0077] The first frame portion 78 is disposed separately from the outer peripheral surface 15a of the inner edge portion 51 in the second direction. The first frame portion 78 is formed in annular shape. The heater 15 is inserted into the opening formed by the inner edge portion of the first frame portion 78. A gap is formed between the inner edge portion of the first frame portion 78 and the outer peripheral surface 15a of the heater 15. The inner diameter of the first frame portion 78 is the inner diameter of the spacer 75, and the outer diameter of the first frame portion 78 is the outer diameter of the spacer 75. The outer diameter of the first frame portion 78 is larger than the outer diameter of the heating element 14. In this embodiment, the first frame portion 78 is formed in annular shape. However, the first frame portion 78 is not limited to annular shape, and may also be polygonal annular or the like.

[0078] A first protrusion 79 protrudes from the first frame portion 78 in a first direction and abuts against the outer edge portion 52 of the heating element 14. The first protrusion 79 is composed of a plurality of first pins arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction. The plurality of first pins abut against the outer edge portion 52 of the heating element 14 at their inner edges.

[0079] A pair of end members 76 clamp a plurality of heating elements 14 and a plurality of spacers 75 from a first direction. The pair of end members 76 have the same configuration as each other. The end member 76 has an inner frame portion 81, an outer frame portion 82, a connecting portion 83, and a second protrusion 84.

[0080] The inner frame portion 81 abuts against the outer peripheral surface 15a of the heater 15. The inner frame portion 81 is formed in a ring shape. The heater 15 is inserted into an opening formed by the inner edge portion of the inner frame portion 81. The inner frame portion 81 abuts against the outer peripheral surface 15a of the heater 15 through its inner edge portion, thereby fixing the end member 76 to the outer peripheral surface 15a of the heater 15. In this embodiment, the inner frame portion 81 is formed in a ring shape. However, the inner frame portion 81 is not limited to a ring shape, and may also be a polygonal ring shape, etc.

[0081] The outer frame portion 82 is positioned further away from the outer peripheral surface 15a of the heater 15 in a second direction than the inner frame portion 81. The outer frame portion 82 is formed in a ring shape. The inner frame portion 81 is disposed in an opening formed by the inner edge portion of the outer frame portion 82. In this embodiment, the outer frame portion 82 is formed in a circular ring shape. However, the outer frame portion 82 is not limited to a circular ring shape, and may also be a polygonal ring shape, etc.

[0082] A connecting portion 83 connects the inner frame portion 81 and the outer frame portion 82. Multiple connecting portions 83 are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction. That is, the end member 76 has multiple connecting portions 83 connecting the inner frame portion 81 and the outer frame portion 82, and the multiple connecting portions 83 are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction. Gaps are formed between the multiple connecting portions 83. Figure 5 In the middle, the four connecting parts 83 are arranged to extend radially from the central axis CL of the heater 15.

[0083] The second protrusion 84 protrudes from the outer frame portion 82 in a first direction and abuts against the outer edge portion 52 of the heating element 14. The second protrusion 84 is composed of a plurality of second pins arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction. The plurality of second pins abut against the outer edge portion 52 of the heating element 14 at their inner edges.

[0084] In the heating structure 8a of the second embodiment, the inner edge 51 and outer edge 52 of the heating element 14 are connected by a heating surface 53, which extends continuously in the circumferential direction centered on the central axis CL of the heater 15. The inner edge 51 of the heating element 14 is heated by radiant heat generated from the outer peripheral surface 15a of the heater 15. At this time, the heat from the inner edge 51 is transferred to the outer edge 52 through heat conduction within the heating element 14. As a result, heat is transferred to the entire heating element 14, and the temperature difference between the inner edge 51 and the outer edge 52 of the heating element 14 is reduced. Therefore, the heating structure 8a can achieve a more uniform temperature distribution in the heating element 14.

[0085] In the heating structure 8a, since multiple heating elements 14 are arranged along the first direction, the total area of ​​the heating surface 53 increases, and the heat output increases. The heating structure 8a can adjust the heat output according to the number of heating elements 14.

[0086] In the heating structure 8a, spacers 75 are provided between adjacent heating elements 14 arranged along the first direction, creating spaces between them and preventing contact between adjacent heating elements 14. This suppresses heat generation reduction due to contact between the heating surfaces 53 of the heating elements 14 and prevents fusion between the heating elements 14 due to thermal diffusion of the metal. Each heating element 14 is efficiently heated by radiant heat from adjacent heating elements 14, reaching a suitable heating temperature in a shorter time.

[0087] In the heating structure 8a, in addition to the spacer 75, a pair of end members 76 are arranged adjacent to the heating element 14 at its end in the first direction among the plurality of heating elements 14 arranged along the first direction. In the heating structure 8a, the first protrusion 79 of the spacer 75 abuts against the outer edge 52 of the heating element 14, and the second protrusion 84 of the end member 76 abuts against the outer edge 52 of the heating element 14. The end member 76 is fixed to the outer peripheral surface 15a of the heater 15 by the inner frame portion 81, thereby integrating the plurality of heating elements 14, the heater 15, the plurality of spacers 75, and the pair of end members 76. Thus, the plurality of heating elements 14, the plurality of spacers 75, and the pair of end members 76 are positioned relative to the heater 15 in the first and second directions.

[0088] (3) Heat utilization system of the third embodiment In the first and second embodiments described above, the heating element 14 is formed in a ring shape, while in the third embodiment, the shape of the heating element is different.

[0089] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the heat utilization system 1a according to the third embodiment. The heat utilization system 1a replaces the heating device 3 of the first embodiment described above, and includes a heating device 3a. The heating device 3a and the heat utilization device 4 are incorporated into the piping path 2. Furthermore, for components and parts that are the same or equivalent to those in the above embodiments, the same reference numerals are used, and descriptions are omitted.

[0090] The heating device 3a includes a sealed container 5, a hydrogen tank 6, a vacuum pump 7, and a heating structure 8b. The heating device 3a replaces the heating structure 8 of the first embodiment with a heating structure 8b. The heating structure 8b includes: a heating element 14a that generates heat through the absorption and release of hydrogen; a heater 15 that heats the heating element 14a; and a temperature sensor 17 that detects the temperature of the heating element 14a.

[0091] The heating element 14a is formed as a hollow cylinder. A heater 15 is disposed in the space inside the heating element 14a. The heating element 14a extends continuously along a first direction parallel to the central axis CL of the heater 15, and extends continuously in a zigzag manner in the circumferential direction centered on the central axis CL.

[0092] use Figure 7 The specific shape of the heating element 14a is described. Figure 7 It is along Figure 6 A schematic cross-sectional view of the heating structure 8b along line VII-VII. (See attached image.) Figure 7As shown, the heating element 14a has a configuration in which it alternates between the inner and outer sides multiple times around the central axis CL of the heater 15, and its two ends are connected. In a plan view viewed from the first direction, the heating element 14a has a shape that extends continuously in a sawtooth pattern in the circumferential direction around the central axis CL (also called a star shape).

[0093] The heating element 14a has: an inner edge portion 91 disposed opposite to the outer peripheral surface 15a of the heater 15; an outer edge portion 92 disposed further away from the outer peripheral surface 15a than the inner edge portion 91 in a second direction, the second direction being orthogonal to a first direction along the central axis CL; and a heating surface 93 connecting the inner edge portion 91 and the outer edge portion 92, extending continuously in the circumferential direction centered on the central axis CL. Multiple inner edge portions 91 and outer edge portions 92 are intermittently disposed in the circumferential direction centered on the central axis CL. The heating surface 93 extends continuously in the circumferential direction centered on the central axis CL, alternatingly folding back and forth multiple times. "Intermittent" means not continuous in the circumferential direction centered on the central axis CL. That is, the heating element 14a has multiple inner edge portions 91 intermittently disposed in the circumferential direction, multiple outer edge portions 92 intermittently disposed in the circumferential direction, and a heating surface 93 extending continuously in the circumferential direction, alternatingly folding back and forth multiple times.

[0094] The inner edge portion 91 forms a folded-back portion on the inner side of the heating element 14a. The inner edge portion 91 extends along a first direction. The inner edge portion 91 is located at a position separating from the outer peripheral surface 15a of the heater 15 in a second direction. A gap is formed between the inner edge portion 91 and the outer peripheral surface 15a.

[0095] The outer edge portion 92 forms a folded-back portion on the outer side of the heating element 14a. The outer edge portion 92 extends along a first direction. The outer edge portion 92 is located at a position separating from the inner surface (inner surface of the main body) of the sealed container 5 in a second direction. A gap is formed between the outer edge portion 92 and the inner surface of the sealed container 5.

[0096] The heating surface 93 folds outward at the inner edge 91 (towards the outer edge 92) and inward at the outer edge 92 (towards the inner edge 91). The heating surface 93 is composed of a first surface 93a and a second surface 93b that are inclined relative to an imaginary plane 94 orthogonal to the outer peripheral surface 15a of the heater 15. Figure 7In the diagram, the imaginary plane 94 is represented by a double-dotted line. The first surface 93a and the second surface 93b are symmetrically arranged with respect to the imaginary plane 94. Multiple first surfaces 93a and second surfaces 93b are alternately arranged in the circumferential direction centered on the central axis CL. A space is formed between adjacent first surfaces 93a and second surfaces 93b. Adjacent first surfaces 93a and second surfaces 93b are arranged opposite each other and connected at their inner edges 91 or outer edges 92. Multiple first surfaces 93a and multiple second surfaces 93b, alternately connected at their inner edges 91 and outer edges 92, constitute a heating surface 93 as a continuous body. The heating surface 93 is arranged around the circumference centered on the central axis CL.

[0097] The heating element 14a receives radiant heat generated from the outer peripheral surface 15a of the heater 15 through its inner edge portion 91. The temperature of the inner edge portion 91 rises due to the radiant heat from the outer peripheral surface 15a of the heater 15. The heat from the inner edge portion 91 is transferred to the outer edge portion 92 via thermal conduction. That is, the heating element 14a transfers heat from the inner edge portion 91 to the outer edge portion 92 via thermal conduction. The temperature of the outer edge portion 92 rises due to the thermal conduction from the inner edge portion 91. As a result, the temperature difference between the inner edge portion 91 and the outer edge portion 92 decreases, and the temperature distribution of the heating element 14a is made more uniform.

[0098] Figure 8 This is an exploded perspective view of the heating structure 8b according to the third embodiment. Figure 8 As shown, the heating structure 8b includes a retaining portion 95 that maintains the shape of the heating element 14a. The retaining portion 95 is formed of a material that is heat-resistant and pressure-resistant. The retaining portion 95 maintains the space formed between the first surface 93a and the second surface 93b of the heating surface 93 constituting the heating element 14a, and prevents adjacent first surfaces 93a and second surfaces 93b from contacting each other.

[0099] The retaining part 95 includes a support column 96 fixed to the sealed container 5, a first guide portion 97 provided at one end of the support column 96, and a second guide portion 98 provided between one end and the other end of the support column 96. In this embodiment, four support columns 96 are suspended from the top cover of the sealed container 5. Furthermore, the support columns 96 are not limited to being suspended from the top cover of the sealed container 5; they can also be provided in an upright position relative to the bottom cover of the sealed container 5. The support columns 96 can also be fixed in a manner that extends in a second direction relative to the body of the sealed container 5.

[0100] The first guide portion 97 receives one end of the heating element 14a in a first direction. The first guide portion 97 is formed in the shape of a disc with an opening 97a in the center. The heater 15 is inserted into the opening 97a of the first guide portion 97.

[0101] The first guide portion 97 has a first groove 97b that fits into one end of the heating element 14a in a first direction. The first groove 97b extends continuously and alternately in the circumferential direction. The first groove 97b is used for positioning one end of the heating element 14a in the first direction. The width of the first groove 97b is slightly greater than the thickness of the heating element 14a. The depth of the first groove 97b is not particularly limited. The first groove 97b may also be configured to penetrate the first guide portion 97 in the first direction.

[0102] The second guide portion 98 receives the other end of the heating element 14a in a first direction. The second guide portion 98 is formed in the shape of a disc with a central opening 98a. The heater 15 is inserted into the opening 98a of the second guide portion 98.

[0103] The second guide portion 98 has a second groove 98b that fits into the other end of the heating element 14a in the first direction. The second groove 98b alternately folds back and forth multiple times in the circumferential direction and extends continuously. The second groove 98b is used for positioning the other end of the heating element 14a in the first direction. The width of the second groove 98b is slightly greater than the thickness of the heating element 14a. The depth of the second groove 98b is not particularly limited. The second groove 98b may also be configured to penetrate the second guide portion 98 in the first direction.

[0104] In the heating structure 8b of the third embodiment, multiple inner edge portions 91 and outer edge portions 92 of the heating element 14a are intermittently arranged in the circumferential direction, and the heating surface 93 alternately folds back and forth multiple times in the circumferential direction and extends continuously. The inner edge portion 91 of the heating element 14a is heated by radiant heat generated from the outer peripheral surface 15a of the heater 15. At this time, the heat of the inner edge portion 91 in the heating element 14a is transferred to the outer edge portion 92 through heat conduction. As a result, heat is transferred to the entire heating element 14a, and the temperature difference between the inner edge portion 91 and the outer edge portion 92 of the heating element 14a is reduced. Therefore, the heating structure 8b can make the temperature distribution of the heating element 14a more uniform.

[0105] In the heating structure 8b, multiple first surfaces 93a and second surfaces 93b constituting the heating element 14a are alternately arranged in the circumferential direction, with a space formed between adjacent first surfaces 93a and second surfaces 93b. The heating structure 8b can receive radiant heat from the outer peripheral surface 15a of the heater 15 across the entire surface of the heating surface 93 through this space. Therefore, the temperature difference between the inner edge 91 and the outer edge 92 of the heating element 14a is smaller, and the temperature distribution of the heating element 14a can be made more uniform.

[0106] In the heating structure 8b, adjacent first surfaces 93a and second surfaces 93b face each other. The first surface 93a is efficiently heated by radiant heat from the adjacent second surface 93b. The second surface 93b is efficiently heated by radiant heat from the adjacent first surface 93a. As a result, the heating element 14a can reach a suitable heating temperature in a shorter time.

[0107] The heating structure 8b includes a retaining portion 95 that maintains the shape of the heating element 14a. The retaining portion 95 has a first groove 97b for fitting one end of the heating element 14a in a first direction, and a second groove 98b for fitting the other end of the heating element 14a in the first direction. The first groove 97b and the second groove 98b alternately fold back multiple times in the circumferential direction centered on the central axis CL and extend continuously. The retaining portion 95 maintains the space formed between the first surface 93a and the second surface 93b of the heating surface 93 constituting the heating element 14a and prevents adjacent first surfaces 93a and second surfaces 93b from contacting each other. The heating structure 8b suppresses the reduction in heat generation caused by contact between the first surface 93a and the second surface 93b, and the welding between the first surface 93a and the second surface 93b caused by thermal diffusion of the metal.

[0108] The results of the analysis of the temperature distribution of the heating structure 8b are shown in Figure 9 The temperature from the central axis CL of heater 15 to the inner surface of the sealed container 5 was analyzed in a cross-section including the central axis CL of heater 15 and the outer edge 92 of heating element 14a. Simulations of heat conduction and radiation were performed using commercially available thermal analysis software. The power supplied to heater 15 from power source 19 was set to 600W. Figure 9 In the diagram, the horizontal axis represents the position in the radial direction (radial direction) centered on the central axis CL of heater 15, and the vertical axis represents the temperature. Figure 9 In the diagram, a portion of the graph from the central axis CL of heater 15 to the outer peripheral surface 15a is omitted. The blackened squares represent the temperatures of the inner edge 91 and the outer edge 92 of heating element 14a. Figure 9 It can be confirmed that the temperature of the inner edge 91 and the temperature of the outer edge 92 of the heating element 14a are approximately 600°C, and the temperature distribution of the heating element 14a is homogenized. This is believed to be because the inner edge 91 and the outer edge 92 of the heating element 14a are continuously connected through the heating surface 93, allowing heat to be transferred to the entire heating element 14a, and reducing the temperature difference between the inner edge 91 and the outer edge 92.

[0109] (4) Heat utilization system of the fourth embodiment Figure 10This is a conceptual diagram that schematically illustrates the configuration of the heat utilization system 1b according to the fourth embodiment. The heat utilization system 1b replaces the heat utilization device 4 of the first embodiment described above, and includes a heat utilization device 4a. The heat utilization device 4a, together with the heating device 3, is incorporated into the piping path 2. In the fourth embodiment, water is used as the heat medium. Furthermore, for components and parts that are the same or equivalent to those in the above embodiments, the same reference numerals are used, and descriptions are omitted.

[0110] The heat utilization device 4a includes: a boiler 101 that houses a sealed container 5 containing a heating device 3; a second power generation unit 102 that generates electricity based on a gaseous heat medium supplied from the boiler 101; a condenser 103 that cools the gaseous heat medium supplied from the second power generation unit 102 into a liquid heat medium; and a water supply pump 104 that pressurizes the liquid heat medium supplied from the condenser 103 and sends it to the boiler 101.

[0111] Boiler 101 houses piping 105, which functions as an evaporator. Water is supplied to piping 105 from water pump 104. Piping 105 is exposed to heat from heating device 3. Heat is transferred from sealed container 5 to piping 105. Boiler 101 generates high-temperature, high-pressure steam (a gaseous heat medium) inside piping 105. The high-temperature, high-pressure steam is supplied from boiler 101 to second power generation unit 102.

[0112] The second power generation unit 102 includes: a steam turbine 102a driven by high-temperature, high-pressure steam supplied from the boiler 101; and a generator 102b connected to the steam turbine 102a. In the second power generation unit 102, the temperature of the steam is adjusted to, for example, a range of 300°C to 700°C. The output shaft of the steam turbine 102a is connected to the input shaft of the generator 102b. The rotation of the turbine blades of the steam turbine 102a drives the rotor of the generator 102b, generating electricity in the generator 102b. The steam, after heat utilization, is supplied from the second power generation unit 102 to the condenser 103.

[0113] The condenser 103 cools the steam supplied from the second power generation unit 102 back to water (a liquid-phase heat medium) via cooling water 103a. The condenser 103 outputs low-pressure water. The low-pressure water is supplied from the condenser 103 to the water supply pump 104. The water supply pump 104 delivers the water supplied from the condenser 103 to the boiler 101 at a predetermined pressure.

[0114] As described above, the heat utilization system 1b utilizes the heat medium heated by the heating device 3, which has a heating element 14 that generates heat through the absorption and release of hydrogen, as a heat source, thus enabling the supply of energy inexpensively, cleanly, and safely.

[0115] Alternatively, a substance that changes from a liquid phase to a gas phase based on the heat from the heating device 3 can be used as the heat medium instead of water. A substance with excellent thermal conductivity and chemical stability is preferred as the heat medium.

[0116] (5) The heat utilization system of the fifth embodiment Figure 11 This is a conceptual diagram showing the configuration of the heat utilization system 1c according to the fifth embodiment. The heat utilization system 1c replaces the heat utilization device 4 of the first embodiment described above with a heat utilization device 4b. The heat utilization device 4b includes: a Stirling engine 110 driven by receiving heat from the heating device 3; and a generator 111 connected to the Stirling engine 110. Furthermore, components and parts that are the same or equivalent to those in the above embodiments are labeled with the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted.

[0117] The Stirling engine 110 includes: a first cylinder 112 with a closed end; an expansion piston 114 housed in the first cylinder 112 at a position opposite to the closed end and dividing an expansion chamber 113 between the first cylinder 112 and the closed end; a second cylinder 115 with a closed end; a compression piston 117 housed in the second cylinder 115 at a position opposite to the closed end and dividing a compression chamber 116 between the second cylinder 115 and the closed end; a heater 118 connecting the expansion chamber 113 and the compression chamber 116 and receiving thermal energy from the sealed container 5 of the heating device 3; a cooler 119 disposed between the compression chamber 116 and the heater 118; a regenerator 120 disposed between the cooler 119 and the heater 118; and an output shaft, i.e., a crankshaft 122, connected to the expansion piston 114 and the compression piston 117 respectively via connecting rods 121a and 121b.

[0118] The crankshaft 122 (output shaft) of the Stirling engine 110 is connected to the input shaft of the generator 111. The rotation of the crankshaft 122 drives the rotor of the generator 111, which generates electricity.

[0119] The expansion piston 114 moves axially within the first cylinder 112. As the expansion piston 114 moves away from the closed end of the first cylinder 112, the expansion chamber 113 expands. As the expansion piston 114 approaches the closed end of the first cylinder 112, the expansion chamber 113 contracts. The axial reciprocating motion of the expansion piston 114 is converted into the rotational motion of the crankshaft 122. A working fluid is sealed in the expansion chamber 113. Helium is used as the working fluid. Besides helium, hydrogen-based gases or air can also be used as the working fluid.

[0120] The compression piston 117 moves axially within the second cylinder 115. As the compression piston 117 moves away from the closed end of the second cylinder 115, the compression chamber 116 expands. As the compression piston 117 approaches the closed end of the second cylinder 115, the compression chamber 116 contracts. The rotational motion of the crankshaft 122 is converted into the axial reciprocating motion of the compression piston 117. Since the compression chamber 116 is connected to the expansion chamber 113, both the compression chamber 116 and the expansion chamber 113 are filled with working fluid. The working fluid travels back and forth between the expansion chamber 113 and the compression chamber 116 via the heater 118, the regenerator 120, and the cooler 119.

[0121] Heater 118 transfers heat from sealed container 5 to working fluid. The working fluid, heated by the heating structure 8 housed within sealed container 5, flows into expansion chamber 113. Expansion chamber 113 expands according to the expansion of the working fluid. Expansion piston 114 displaces towards crankshaft 122. The high-temperature, high-pressure working fluid flows from heater 118 into regenerator 120 due to the contraction of expansion chamber 113.

[0122] Cooler 119 cools the working fluid using a cooling medium (not shown). The cooling medium may be, for example, water. The working fluid, cooled by the cooling medium, flows into compression chamber 116. Compression chamber 116 expands. Compression piston 117 displaces towards crankshaft 122. The low-temperature, low-pressure working fluid flows from regenerator 120 into heater 118 due to the contraction of compression chamber 116.

[0123] The regenerator 120 absorbs and stores heat from the working fluid flowing in from the heater 118, and transfers the stored heat to the working fluid flowing in from the cooler 119. Therefore, the working fluid in the expansion chamber 113 releases heat in the regenerator 120 before flowing into the cooler 119. The working fluid in the compression chamber 116 is heated in the regenerator 120 before flowing into the heater 118.

[0124] As described above, the heat utilization system 1c utilizes the heat medium heated by the heating device 3, which has a heating element 14 that generates heat through the absorption and release of hydrogen, as a heat source, thus enabling the supply of energy inexpensively, cleanly, and safely.

[0125] (6) The heat utilization system of the sixth embodiment Figure 12 This is a conceptual diagram that schematically illustrates the configuration of the heat utilization system 1d according to the sixth embodiment. The heat utilization system 1d replaces the heat utilization device 4 of the first embodiment described above with a heat utilization device 4c. The heat utilization device 4c includes a thermoelectric converter 130 that generates electricity based on a temperature difference. Furthermore, components and parts that are the same or equivalent to those in the above embodiments are labeled with the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted.

[0126] The thermoelectric converter 130 has a heating plate 131 and a heat sink 132, with a high-temperature piping 133 in contact with the heating plate 131. The high-temperature piping 133 is connected to piping path 2 to allow the flow of the heat medium. The low-temperature piping 134 is in contact with the heat sink 132. The low-temperature piping 134 allows the flow of cooling water.

[0127] Thermoelectric converter 130 is sandwiched between a heated plate 131 and a heat sink 132, and includes a p-type semiconductor 135a and an n-type semiconductor 135b arranged side-by-side between the heated plate 131 and the heat sink 132. The p-type semiconductor 135a and the n-type semiconductor 135b are alternately connected in series based on a first electrode fixed to the heated plate 131 and a second electrode fixed to the heat sink 132. Power is extracted from the second electrode located at both ends of the series connection.

[0128] As described above, the heat utilization system 1d utilizes the heat medium heated by the heating device 3, which has a heating element 14 that generates heat through the absorption and release of hydrogen, as a heat source, thus enabling the supply of energy inexpensively, cleanly, and safely.

[0129] The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and appropriate modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0130] The heating device 3 is not limited to having one heating structure 8, but may also have multiple heating structures 8.

[0131] In heat utilization systems 1b, 1c, and 1d, heating device 3 may replace heating structure 8 and thus include heating structure 8a. Heat utilization systems 1b, 1c, and 1d may also replace heating device 3 and thus include heating device 3a.

[0132] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures 3. 3a. Heating device; 5. Sealed container; 6. Hydrogen tank; 7. Vacuum pump; 8. 8a, 8b 9. Heating structure; 10. Space; 11. Inlet pipe; 12. Exhaust pipe; 13. Supply valve; 14. Exhaust valve; 14, 14a. Heating element; 15. Heater; 15a. Outer peripheral surface; 17. Temperature sensor; 18. Conductive wire; 19. Power supply; 21. Control unit; 51, 91. Inner edge; 52, 92. Outer edge; 53, 93. Heating surface; 55, 75. Spacer; 61. Support body; 62. Multilayer film; 71. First layer; 72. Second layer; 73. Foreign substance interface; 76. End member; 78. First frame part; 79. First protrusion; 81. Inner frame part; 82. Outer frame part; 83. Connecting part; 84. Second protrusion; 93a. First surface; 93b. Second surface; CL. Central axis.

Claims

1. A heating structure comprising: A heating element comprising a support formed of a hydrogen-absorbing metal, a hydrogen-absorbing alloy, or a proton conductor, and a multilayer film disposed on the support and generating heat through the absorption and release of hydrogen; and The heater is formed in a cylindrical shape and has an outer peripheral surface surrounded by the heating element. The multilayer film has a first layer with a thickness of less than 1000 nm, formed of a hydrogen-absorbing metal or hydrogen-absorbing alloy, and a second layer with a thickness of less than 1000 nm, formed of a hydrogen-absorbing metal, hydrogen-absorbing alloy, or ceramic different from the first layer. The heating element has: an inner edge portion disposed opposite to the outer peripheral surface; an outer edge portion disposed in a second direction that is farther away from the outer peripheral surface than the inner edge portion, the second direction being orthogonal to a first direction along the central axis of the heater; and a heating surface connecting the inner edge portion and the outer edge portion and extending continuously in a circumferential direction centered on the central axis, wherein the heating element transfers heat from the inner edge portion to the outer edge portion by thermal conduction.

2. The heating structure according to claim 1, wherein, The inner edge portion and the outer edge portion extend continuously in the circumferential direction. The heating surface is disposed in a plane orthogonal to the first direction.

3. The heating structure according to claim 2, wherein, The heating element is arranged in multiple ways along the first direction.

4. The heating structure according to claim 3, wherein, The heating structure includes spacers disposed between adjacent heating elements among a plurality of heating elements arranged along the first direction.

5. The heating structure according to claim 4, wherein, The heating structure includes a pair of end members, which are disposed adjacent to the heating element disposed at its end in the first direction among a plurality of heating elements arranged along the first direction. The spacer has: a first frame portion disposed separately from the outer peripheral surface in the second direction; and a first protrusion protruding from the first frame portion in the first direction and abutting against the outer edge portion of the heating element. The end member has: an inner frame portion that abuts against the outer peripheral surface; an outer frame portion that is configured to be farther away from the outer peripheral surface than the inner frame portion in the second direction; a connecting portion that connects the inner frame portion and the outer frame portion; and a second protrusion that protrudes from the outer frame portion in the first direction and abuts against the outer edge portion of the heating element.

6. The heating structure according to claim 5, wherein, The first protrusion is composed of a plurality of first pins arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction. The second protrusion is composed of a plurality of second pins arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction.

7. The heating structure according to claim 1, wherein, The inner edge portion and the outer edge portion are intermittently arranged in the circumferential direction. The heating surface alternately folds back and forth multiple times in the circumferential direction and extends continuously.

8. The heating structure according to claim 7, wherein, The heating structure includes a retaining portion that maintains the shape of the heating element. The retaining portion has a groove for fitting the end of the heating element in the first direction. The groove alternately folds back and forth multiple times in the circumferential direction and extends continuously.

9. A heating device, comprising: The heating structure according to any one of claims 1 to 8; A sealed container that houses the heat-generating structure; A supply unit that supplies hydrogen-based gas containing the hydrogen to the interior of the sealed container; and The exhaust section for discharging the hydrogen-based gas from inside the sealed container.

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