Hydrogen power generation equipment

Abstract

The system balances the supply and demand between the amount of hydrogen produced by the hydrogen generator and the electricity output from the fuel cell. [Solution] The hydrogen power generation device 100 comprises a plurality of hydrogen containers 3, each containing granular material H made of a hydrogen storage alloy; a water supply device 4 configured to supply water individually to the plurality of hydrogen containers; a fuel cell stack 1 that generates electricity using hydrogen produced by the reaction of the granular material and water; a flow sensor 15 for detecting the flow rate of hydrogen introduced into the fuel cell stack; and a control unit 6 configured to control the water supply device based on the detected flow rate detected by the flow sensor. The control unit controls the water supply device so that the number of hydrogen containers to which water is supplied changes according to the value of the detected flow rate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a hydrogen power generation device.

Background Art

[0002] It is known to use a fuel cell as a means for countermeasures against global warming. A fuel cell is a device that generates electricity by chemically reacting hydrogen and oxygen existing in nature. By using a fuel cell, it is possible to generate electricity without relying on fossil fuels and suppress the emission of carbon dioxide, which causes global warming. In practice, power generation is performed by supplying the hydrogen generated by a hydrogen generation device to a fuel cell stack.

[0003] Regarding hydrogen generation devices, those that generate hydrogen by supplying water to a granular material composed of a hydrogen storage alloy and causing a chemical reaction between the granular material and water are known (for example, see Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] By the way, a fuel cell generates and outputs power corresponding to the power consumption of an electrical load connected thereto. Also, a fuel cell generates electricity by introducing a corresponding amount of hydrogen according to its output power.

[0006] Therefore, it is important to achieve a supply-demand balance between the amount of hydrogen generated by a hydrogen generation device and the power output from a fuel cell. That is, if the amount of generated hydrogen is excessive relative to the output power of the fuel cell, not only is hydrogen generated wastefully, but also a large storage space for storing excess hydrogen is required.

[0007] Therefore, this disclosure was conceived in view of these circumstances, and its purpose is to provide a hydrogen power generation device that can balance the supply and demand between the amount of hydrogen produced by the hydrogen generation device and the electricity output from the fuel cell. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] According to one aspect of this disclosure, Multiple hydrogen containers, each containing granular material made of hydrogen storage alloy, A water supply device configured to supply water individually to multiple hydrogen containers, A fuel cell stack that generates electricity using hydrogen produced by the reaction of powder and water, A flow sensor for detecting the flow rate of hydrogen introduced into the fuel cell stack, A control unit configured to control the water supply device based on the detected flow rate detected by the flow sensor, Equipped with, The control unit controls the water supply device so that the number of hydrogen containers supplied with water is changed according to the detected flow rate value. A hydrogen power generation device characterized by the above is provided.

[0009] Preferably, the control unit controls the water supply device such that the number of hydrogen containers supplied with water increases as the detected flow rate value increases.

[0010] Preferably, the range of the detected flow rate from 0 to a predetermined maximum value is divided into n (where n is the number of hydrogen containers) first regions. The control unit is When the detected flow rate value falls into the m-th (where m is an integer from 1 to n)-th first region, counting from the low flow rate side, a predetermined standard amount of water is supplied to m hydrogen containers. This controls the aforementioned water supply device.

[0011] Preferably, the range of the detected flow rate from 0 to a predetermined maximum value is divided into n (where n is the number of hydrogen containers) first regions by a plurality of thresholds. The control unit is When the detected flow rate value belongs to the m-th (where m is an integer from 1 to n)-th first region, counting from the low flow rate side, and is an intermediate value that is not equal to 0, the maximum value, or the threshold value, A predetermined standard amount of water is supplied to (m-1) of the hydrogen containers, and a smaller amount than the standard amount is supplied to one of the hydrogen containers. This controls the aforementioned water supply device.

[0012] Preferably, the range of the detected flow rate from 0 to a predetermined maximum value is divided into n (where n is the number of hydrogen containers) first regions. Each of the aforementioned first regions is divided into p (where p is an integer greater than or equal to 2) second regions, The control unit is When the detected flow rate value belongs to the first region that is m-th (where m is an integer from 1 to n) counting from the low flow rate side, and also belongs to the second region that is q-th (where q is an integer from 1 to p) counting from the low flow rate side, A predetermined standard amount of water is supplied to (m-1) of the hydrogen containers, and an amount of (the standard amount × q / p) of water is supplied to one of the hydrogen containers. This controls the aforementioned water supply device.

[0013] Preferably, the range of the detected flow rate from 0 to a predetermined maximum value is divided into n (where n is the number of hydrogen containers) first regions. Each of the aforementioned first regions is divided into p (where p is an integer greater than or equal to 2) second regions, The control unit is When the detected flow rate value belongs to the first region that is m-th (where m is an integer from 1 to n) counting from the low flow rate side, and also belongs to the second region that is q-th (where q is an integer from 1 to p) counting from the low flow rate side, A predetermined standard amount of water is supplied to (m-1) of the hydrogen containers at predetermined intervals, and the same standard amount of water is supplied to one of the hydrogen containers at intervals of (the above interval × p / q), This controls the aforementioned water supply device.

[0014] Preferably, the range of the detected flow rate from 0 to the maximum value is equally divided into n of the first regions.

[0015] Preferably, each of the first regions is equally divided into p of the second regions.

[0016] Preferably, the control unit supplies water to the hydrogen container in a predetermined amount at each predetermined cycle, and when supplying water to a plurality of the hydrogen containers, controls the water supply device so that the water supply timings for each of the hydrogen containers are shifted.

[0017] Preferably, the hydrogen storage alloy is magnesium hydride.

Advantages of the Invention

[0018] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to achieve a supply-demand balance between the amount of hydrogen generated by the hydrogen generation device and the power output from the fuel cell.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0019] [Figure 1] It is a schematic diagram showing a hydrogen power generation device of the present embodiment. [Figure 2] It is a time chart showing the content of control of the present embodiment. [Figure 3] It is a time chart showing the state of control during water supply. [Figure 4] It is a flowchart showing the content of control of the present embodiment. [Figure 5] It is a time chart showing the content of control of the first modification. [Figure 6] It is a time chart showing the state when supplying water to Q50. [Figure 7] It is a time chart showing the content of control of the second modification. [Figure 8] It is a time chart showing the state when supplying water to Q25. [Figure 9]This is a time chart showing the process of supplying water to multiple hydrogen containers at the same time. [Figure 10] This is a time chart showing how water is supplied to multiple hydrogen containers at different times in the fourth modified example. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0020] The embodiments of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the attached drawings. It should be noted that this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described below.

[0021] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the hydrogen power generation device of this embodiment. The hydrogen power generation device 100 comprises a fuel cell (hereinafter also referred to as FC) stack 1 that substantially generates electricity, and a hydrogen generation device 2 that generates hydrogen (specifically hydrogen gas) that is introduced into or supplied to the FC stack 1.

[0022] The hydrogen generator 2 comprises a plurality of hydrogen containers 3, each containing granular material H made of a hydrogen storage alloy, and a water supply device 4 configured to supply water individually to the plurality of hydrogen containers 3. The hydrogen generator 2 generates hydrogen through the reaction of granular material H with water, and the FC stack 1 generates electricity using the hydrogen produced by the hydrogen generator 2.

[0023] The hydrogen generator 2 also includes a flow sensor 15 for detecting the flow rate of hydrogen introduced into the FC stack 1, and a control unit (ECU 6) configured to control the water supply device 4 based on the detected flow rate detected by the flow sensor 15.

[0024] In this embodiment, hydrogen is generated using a hydrogen storage alloy that is easy to handle and highly safe. The hydrogen storage alloy in this embodiment is magnesium hydride (MgH2). This hydrogen storage alloy is formed and processed into powder H and used as a material for hydrogen generation.

[0025] In this embodiment, six hydrogen containers 3 are provided. These hydrogen containers 3 contain granular material H of the same particle size. The particle size of the granular material H refers to the size of the particles of the granular material H. For example, a large particle size means that the average particle size of the granular material H is large. The six hydrogen containers 3 are numbered #1 to #6.

[0026] The hydrogen container 3 has the form of a removable and replaceable cartridge or pack. Powdered material H is deposited in the lower part of the hydrogen container 3. Water is supplied to this powdered material H, and hydrogen gas is generated by the hydrolysis of the hydrogen storage alloy. The space above the powdered material H becomes a gas storage space where the generated hydrogen gas is stored. Thus, the hydrogen container 3 combines the functions of a storage container for containing powdered material H, a reaction vessel for reacting powdered material H and water, and a gas storage container for storing the generated hydrogen gas.

[0027] The control unit consists of an electronic control unit (ECU) 6. The ECU 6 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) with arithmetic functions, ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory) as storage media, input / output ports, and other storage devices besides ROM and RAM.

[0028] The water supply system 4 includes a water tank 7 for storing water, water piping 8 for distributing and supplying water from the water tank 7 to each hydrogen container 3, a water filter 9 provided at the upstream manifold 8A of the water piping 8 for purifying the water sent from the water tank 7, and solenoid valves 10 provided at each branch pipe 8C of the downstream branch 8B of the water piping 8. The water flow is indicated by a solid arrow and denoted by the symbol W.

[0029] A solenoid valve 10 is provided individually for each hydrogen container 3. The opening and closing of the solenoid valve 10 controls the supply of water to the corresponding hydrogen container 3. In this embodiment, water is supplied from the water tank 7 to the hydrogen container 3 by gravity, so a water pump is omitted. However, a water pump may be provided to forcibly supply water.

[0030] When water is supplied, the ECU 6 opens the solenoid valve 10 for a predetermined time at predetermined intervals (i.e., in a pulsed manner). The longer the solenoid valve 10 is open, the greater the amount of water supplied per valve opening. When the solenoid valve 10 is opened, water is dripped onto the granular material H in the hydrogen container 3.

[0031] Meanwhile, hydrogen piping 11 is provided for transporting hydrogen from each hydrogen container 3 to the FC stack 1. The hydrogen piping 11 has an upstream branch section 11A and a downstream manifold section 11B, and the upstream branch section 11A has multiple (6) branch pipes 11C connected to each hydrogen container 3. The hydrogen flow is indicated by a dashed arrow and denoted by the symbol H2.

[0032] The downstream end of the downstream manifold 11B of the hydrogen piping 11 is connected to the hydrogen input section of the FC stack 1. The downstream manifold 11B is equipped with, in order from the upstream side, a hydrogen filter 12, a relief valve 13, a pressure sensor 5, a regulator 14, and a flow sensor 15.

[0033] The hydrogen filter 12 removes water vapor mixed with the hydrogen. The relief valve 13 opens to release pressure if the hydrogen pressure rises abnormally. The pressure sensor 5 detects the hydrogen pressure. The regulator 14 adjusts the hydrogen pressure to a pressure suitable for supply to the FC stack 1. The flow sensor 15 detects the flow rate of hydrogen supplied to or introduced into the FC stack 1.

[0034] As is well known, the FC stack 1 is a device that generates electricity by reacting supplied hydrogen with oxygen from the atmosphere. A capacitor 16 is connected to the output section of the FC stack 1 as an energy storage device, and the electricity generated by the FC stack 1 is stored in the capacitor 16. The flow of electricity is shown by a thick solid arrow and is denoted by the symbol E.

[0035] An electrical load 17, consisting of electrical equipment, is connected to the capacitor 16. In the diagram, three electrical loads 17 are connected, but the number of electrical loads 17 is arbitrary. For example, when the hydrogen power generation device 100 is used as an emergency generator, the electrical loads 17 can be electrical appliances, such as a washing machine, a fan, or a mobile phone charger.

[0036] The power output from the FC stack 1 may be supplied to the ECU 6 via a transformer (not shown), and the FC stack 1 may be used as the power source for the ECU 6. Similarly, the capacitor 16 may be used as the power source for the ECU 6. Naturally, the solenoid valve 10, pressure sensor 5, and flow sensor 15 are electrically connected to the ECU 6.

[0037] Now, assuming we ignore the capacitor 16, the FC stack 1 generates and outputs power corresponding to the total power consumption of the electrical loads 17 connected to it. The FC stack 1 also generates electricity by introducing an amount of hydrogen corresponding to its output power. In other words, there is a correlation between the total power consumption of the electrical loads 17 per unit time and the amount of hydrogen (i.e., flow rate) introduced into the FC stack 1.

[0038] Therefore, it is important to balance the supply and demand between the amount of hydrogen produced by the hydrogen generator 2 and the power output from the FC stack 1. In other words, if the amount of hydrogen produced is in excess of the power output from the FC stack 1, not only will hydrogen be produced unnecessarily, but a large amount of storage space will be required to store the surplus hydrogen. Specifically, the hydrogen gas storage space in the hydrogen container 3 will need to be increased, and the hydrogen container 3 will need to be made larger.

[0039] Therefore, in the hydrogen power generation system 100 of this embodiment, by employing the following configuration and control, it is possible to balance the supply and demand between the amount of hydrogen produced by the hydrogen generator 2 and the electricity output from the FC stack 1.

[0040] Specifically, the ECU 6 in this embodiment controls the water supply device 4 so that the number of hydrogen containers 3 supplied with water is changed according to the value of the detected flow rate detected by the flow sensor 15.

[0041] This will be explained using the time chart in Figure 2. The horizontal axis represents time t. On the vertical axis, (A) represents the power per unit time output from FC stack 1, i.e., FC output power U. (B) represents the amount of hydrogen introduced into FC stack 1 per unit time, i.e., FC input hydrogen flow rate F. This FC input hydrogen flow rate F is the detected flow rate detected by the flow sensor 15. (C) represents the number of hydrogen containers 3 to which water is supplied, i.e., the number of water supply containers N. (D) represents the amount of water supplied to one hydrogen container 3 in one go, i.e., the water supply amount Q. (E) represents the amount of hydrogen produced per unit time when considering all hydrogen containers 3 together, i.e., the hydrogen production amount G.

[0042] In general terms, this embodiment utilizes the property that the hydrogen flow rate F input to the fuel cell correlates with the power consumption of the electrical load 17. By detecting the hydrogen flow rate F input to the fuel cell and estimating the power consumption of the electrical load 17, an amount of hydrogen commensurate with the power consumption of the electrical load 17 is generated.

[0043] Here, we will ignore the existence of capacitor 16. That is, the charging power to capacitor 16 is assumed to be zero, and the power consumption of the electrical load 17, the output power of capacitor 16, and the output power of FC stack 1 are assumed to be equal. In this way, the FC input hydrogen flow rate F will correlate with the power consumption of the electrical load 17. For example, this can be considered when the charge level of capacitor 16 is 100% or a predetermined amount that does not require charging. The same consideration can be applied when capacitor 16 is omitted and the electrical load 17 is directly connected to FC stack 1.

[0044] The FC output power U shown in (A) is equal to the power consumption of the electrical load 17 (the total power consumption of all electrical loads 17) and changes in the same way as the power consumption of the electrical load 17 changes. The vertical axis "0, 1, 2...6" means that the FC output power U is U0 (=0), U1, U2,...U6. When the power consumption of the electrical load 17 is at a predetermined maximum allowable power (e.g., 1200W), the FC output power U is at its maximum value U6. U1, U2,...U5 are determined by dividing this U6 into 6 equal parts. U1 = 1 × U6 / 6, U2 = 2 × U6 / 6,...U5 = 5 × U6 / 6.

[0045] The same applies to the FC input hydrogen flow rate F shown in (B). The vertical axis "0, 1, 2...6" means that the FC input hydrogen flow rate F is F0 (=0), F1, F2,...F6. When the FC output power U is at a predetermined maximum value U6, the FC input hydrogen flow rate F is at a predetermined maximum value F6. F1, F2,...F5 are determined by dividing this F6 into 6 equal parts. F1 = 1 × F6 / 6, F2 = 2 × F6 / 6, ...F5 = 5 × F6 / 6. F1, F2,...F5 are multiple (5) threshold values.

[0046] The number of water supply containers N shown in (C) simply represents the number of hydrogen containers 3 to which water is supplied. The vertical axis "0, 1, 2...6" means that the number of hydrogen containers 3 to which water is supplied is 0, 1, 2...6.

[0047] Regarding the water supply amount Q shown in (D), Figure 3 shows the control process when supplying water to one hydrogen container 3. The ECU 6 supplies a predetermined amount of water at predetermined cycles τ. When supplying water, the ECU 6 opens the solenoid valve 10 for a predetermined time. The longer the valve is open, the larger the amount of water supplied in one go. In the illustrated example, the maximum amount, the standard amount Q100, is supplied in one go. This water supply method is the same for other hydrogen containers 3. This amount of water supplied in one go Q is the value on the vertical axis of Figure 2(D).

[0048] Please note that the pulse signal shown in Figure 3 is a trigger signal that defines the water supply timing, and the width of the pulse signal does not represent the valve opening time. The same applies to other similar figures (Figures 6, 8, 9, and 10).

[0049] Returning to Figure 2, regarding the hydrogen production amount G shown in (E), the vertical axis "0, 1, 2...6" means that the hydrogen production amount G is G0 (=0), G1, G2, ...G6. The maximum value of this hydrogen production amount G is G6. G1, G2, ...G5 are determined by dividing this G6 into 6 equal parts. G1 = 1 × G6 / 6, G2 = 2 × G6 / 6, ...G5 = 5 × G6 / 6. When the FC input hydrogen flow rate F is at its maximum value F6, it is necessary to produce hydrogen at its maximum value G6.

[0050] In other words, the FC output power U0, U1, U2, ... U6 corresponds to the FC input hydrogen flow rate F0, F1, F2, ... F6, and the hydrogen production amount G0, G1, G2, ... G6. In this embodiment, the FC input hydrogen flow rate F0, F1, F2, ... F6 and the hydrogen production amount G0, G1, G2, ... G6 are all equal in value.

[0051] In the illustrated example, the FC output power U changes in a step-like manner at times t1, t2, and t3 in response to the change in power consumption of the electrical load 17. At the first time t1, in response to the increase in power consumption of the electrical load 17, the FC output power U increases from U0 (=0) to a value between U5 and U6, and is maintained at that value until the next time t2.

[0052] In response to this change in FC output power U, the FC input hydrogen flow rate F also changes from F0 (=0) at the initial time t1 to a value between F5 and F6, and is maintained at that value until the next time t2.

[0053] To avoid excessive hydrogen production and ensure the correct amount of hydrogen is produced, it is preferable that the hydrogen production rate G is greater than or equal to the FC input hydrogen flow rate F and as close as possible to the FC input hydrogen flow rate F. After time t1, the FC input hydrogen flow rate F is between F5 and F6, so it is preferable that the hydrogen production rate G is greater than or equal to that value and as close as possible. Therefore, the number of water supply containers N is set to a maximum of 6, and a standard amount Q100 of water is supplied to each of the 6 hydrogen containers 3. Thus, the hydrogen production rate G is set to a maximum of G6, and the hydrogen production rate G is set to slightly exceed the FC input hydrogen flow rate F. This suppresses both excessive hydrogen production and insufficient hydrogen supply to the FC stack 1.

[0054] Figure 2(D) shows that at times t1 to t2, a standard amount Q100 of water is supplied to each of the 3 hydrogen containers, which number N=6. As shown in Figure 2(E), there is a time lag tL due to the chemical reaction between the time the total water supply (the sum of the water supply amounts for each container) is changed and the time the hydrogen production amount G is changed.

[0055] Next, at time t2, in response to the decrease in power consumption of the electrical load 17, the FC output power U decreases from a value between U5 and U6 to a value between U1 and U2, and is maintained at that value until the next time t3.

[0056] In response to this change in FC output power U, the FC input hydrogen flow rate F also changes at time t2 from a value between F5 and F6 to a value between F1 and F2, and is maintained at that value until the next time t3.

[0057] From time t2 onward, the FC input hydrogen flow rate F is between F1 and F2, so the number of water supply containers N is set to 2, and a standard amount Q100 of water is supplied to each of the two hydrogen containers 3. Therefore, the hydrogen production amount G is set to G2, and the hydrogen production amount G is set to slightly exceed the FC input hydrogen flow rate F. This suppresses both excessive hydrogen production and insufficient hydrogen supply to FC stack 1.

[0058] Figure 2(D) shows that at times t2 to t3, a standard amount Q100 of water is supplied to each of the 3 hydrogen containers, which have N=2 containers.

[0059] Next, at time t3, in response to the increase in power consumption of the electrical load 17, the FC output power U increases from a value between U1 and U2 to a value between U3 and U4, and is then maintained at that value.

[0060] In response to this change in FC output power U, the FC input hydrogen flow rate F also changes at time t3 from a value between F1 and F2 to a value between F3 and F4, and is then maintained at that value.

[0061] From time t3 onward, the FC input hydrogen flow rate F is between F3 and F4, so the number of water supply containers N is set to 4, and a standard amount Q100 of water is supplied to each of the 4 hydrogen containers 3. Therefore, the hydrogen production amount G is set to G4, and the hydrogen production amount G is set to slightly exceed the FC input hydrogen flow rate F. This suppresses both excessive hydrogen production and insufficient hydrogen supply to FC stack 1.

[0062] Figure 2(D) shows that, from time t3 onward, a standard amount Q100 of water is supplied to each of the 3 hydrogen containers, of which there are 4 containers N.

[0063] In this way, the ECU 6 controls the water supply device 4 so that the number of hydrogen containers 3 supplied with water, i.e., the number of water supply containers N, is changed according to the detected flow rate, i.e., the value of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F, detected by the flow sensor 15.

[0064] Furthermore, the ECU6 controls the water supply device 4 so that the number of water supply containers N increases as the value of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F increases.

[0065] Furthermore, when the value of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F is less than the value F(n) corresponding to the number of hydrogen containers n (where n is an integer greater than or equal to 1) and greater than the value F(n-1) corresponding to the number of hydrogen containers (n-1), the ECU 6 controls the water supply device 4 to supply a standard amount Q100 to n hydrogen containers 3.

[0066] In the example in Figure 2, n=6 at times t1~t2. Since the value of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F is less than F(6)=F6 and greater than F(5)=F5, a standard amount Q100 is supplied to the six hydrogen containers 3. As a result, the hydrogen production amount G is set to G6.

[0067] Similarly, in the example in Figure 2, n=2 at times t2~t3. Since the value of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F is less than F(2)=F2 and greater than F(1)=F1, a standard amount Q100 is supplied to the two hydrogen containers 3. As a result, the hydrogen production amount G is set to G2.

[0068] In the example in Figure 2, n=4 from time t3 onwards. Since the value of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F is less than F(4)=F4 and greater than F(3)=F3, a standard amount Q100 is supplied to the four hydrogen containers 3. As a result, the hydrogen production amount G is set to G4.

[0069] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the control details of this embodiment. The routine shown is repeatedly executed by the ECU6 at each of the aforementioned water supply cycles τ.

[0070] In step S101, the ECU 6 acquires the FC input hydrogen flow rate F detected by the flow sensor 15.

[0071] In step S102, the ECU6 determines the number of water supply containers N based on the acquired FC input hydrogen flow rate F.

[0072] In step S103, the ECU 6 supplies water to the determined number of water supply containers N of hydrogen containers 3.

[0073] In step S102, threshold values ​​F1, F2, ..., F5 for the FC input hydrogen flow rate F are predetermined and stored in the ECU6. The ECU6 compares the FC input hydrogen flow rate F with these threshold values ​​and determines the number of water supply containers N as follows. When F=F0=0, then N=0. F0 <F≦F1のとき、N=1。 F1 <F≦F2のとき、N=2。 When F2 < F ≤ F3, N = 3. When F3 < F ≤ F4, N = 4. When F4 < F ≤ F5, N = 5. When F5 < F, N = 6.

[0074] Here, the threshold values F1, F2, ··· F5 are determined so as to divide the range of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F from F0 (= 0) to the maximum value F6 into six equal parts. That is, when the number of hydrogen containers 3 is n (n = 6 in this embodiment), the threshold values F1, F2, ··· F(n - 1) are determined so as to divide the range of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F from F0 (= 0) to the maximum value F(n) into n equal parts.

[0075] Regarding step S103, the priority order of the hydrogen containers 3 to be supplied with water may be determined by any method. For example, it may be in ascending order of numbers, or in a random order.

[0076] Stating the above control in a more general way, it is as follows. "The range of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F from 0 to a predetermined maximum value is divided into n (n is the number of hydrogen containers 3) first regions, The ECU 6 When the value of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F belongs to the mth (m is an integer from 1 to n) first region counted from the low flow rate side, the water supply device 4 is controlled to supply a predetermined reference amount Q100 of water to m hydrogen containers 3. "

[0077] In this embodiment, the range of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F is the range from F0 (= 0) to the maximum value F6. This range of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F is divided into six first regions. These first regions are as follows in order from the low flow rate side. The first region on the low flow rate side is the region where F0 < F ≤ F1. The second region on the low flow rate side is the region where F1 < F ≤ F2. The third region on the low flow rate side is the region where F2 < F ≤ F3. The fourth region on the low flow rate side is the region where F3 < F ≤ F4. The fifth first region from the low flow rate side is the region where F4 < F ≤ F5. The sixth first region from the low flow rate side is the region where F5 < F ≤ F6.

[0078] In this embodiment, at times t1 to t2, since the value of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F belongs to the sixth first region (m = 6) counted from the low flow rate side, the reference amount Q100 is supplied to the six hydrogen containers 3.

[0079] At times t2 to t3, since the value of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F belongs to the second first region (m = 2) counted from the low flow rate side, the reference amount Q100 is supplied to the two hydrogen containers 3.

[0080] After time t3, since the value of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F belongs to the fourth first region (m = 4) counted from the low flow rate side, the reference amount Q100 is supplied to the four hydrogen containers 3.

[0081] In this embodiment, the range of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F from F0 to F6 is equally divided into six first regions, but it is not necessarily required to be equally divided.

[0082] Thus, according to this embodiment, since the number of water supply containers N is changed according to the detected value of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F, an appropriate amount of hydrogen without excess or deficiency corresponding to the magnitude of the FC output power U can be generated. Therefore, the supply-demand balance between the amount of hydrogen generated by the hydrogen generation device 2 and the power output from the FC stack 1 can be achieved. In addition, it is possible to suppress the wasteful generation of hydrogen, reduce the storage space for storing excess hydrogen, and miniaturize the hydrogen container 3.

[0083] Next, a modified example will be described. Note that the description of the same parts as in the basic embodiment will be omitted, and the differences from the basic embodiment will be mainly described below.

[0084] [First Modified Example] This first modified example aims to more precisely control the hydrogen generation amount G.

[0085] In other words, in the basic embodiment described above, as shown in Figure 2, for example, if the FC input hydrogen flow rate F becomes a value between F5 and F6 at time t1 to t2, then for the amount exceeding F5 (the fraction), even if it is a small amount, the maximum amount of hydrogen (G6-G5) × 100% that can be generated from one hydrogen container 3 is produced.

[0086] In contrast, this modified version generates hydrogen from one hydrogen container 3 to correspond as closely as possible to the fractional amount, further suppressing the generation of excess hydrogen. Specifically, one of the hydrogen containers 3 of the N water supply containers is supplied with a smaller amount of water than the standard amount Q100, thereby fine-tuning the amount of hydrogen generated.

[0087] This will be explained using the time chart in Figure 5. The way in which the FC output power U shown in (A) and the FC input hydrogen flow rate F shown in (B) change is the same as described above.

[0088] Between times t1 and t2, the FC output power U is greater than U5 but less than U5.5, falling between U5 and U5.5.

[0089] Corresponding to this FC output power U, the FC input hydrogen flow rate F is also between F5 and F5.5.

[0090] In this case as well, the number of water supply containers N is set to 6. However, the method of water supply differs from the basic embodiment described above. Each of the 5 hydrogen containers 3 is supplied with a standard amount Q100, but only 50% of the standard amount Q100, or Q50, is supplied to one hydrogen container 3. Figure 6 shows the process when supplying Q50. Compared to the case where Q100 is supplied, the water supply cycle τ is the same, but the opening time of the solenoid valve 10 is halved. Figure 5(D) shows that at times t1 to t2, each of the N-1=5 hydrogen containers 3 is supplied with a standard amount Q100, but one hydrogen container 3 is supplied with Q50.

[0091] As a result, the hydrogen production amount G is set to G5.5, and compared to the basic embodiment, the amount of hydrogen produced G that exceeds the FC input hydrogen flow rate F is reduced. This further prevents the overproduction of hydrogen.

[0092] Next, at times t2 to t3, the FC output power U is greater than U1 but less than U1.5, and is between U1 and U1.5.

[0093] Corresponding to this FC output power U, the FC input hydrogen flow rate F is also between F1 and F1.5.

[0094] In this case as well, the number of water supply containers N is set to 2. However, the method of water supply differs from the basic embodiment described above; a standard amount Q100 is supplied to 1 (=N-1) hydrogen containers 3, but only Q50 is supplied to 1 hydrogen container 3. This is shown in Figure 5(D).

[0095] As a result, the hydrogen production amount G is set to G1.5, and compared to the basic embodiment, the amount of hydrogen produced G that exceeds the FC input hydrogen flow rate F is reduced. This further prevents the overproduction of hydrogen.

[0096] Next, from time t3 onward, the FC output power U is greater than U3.5 but less than U4, falling between U3.5 and U4.

[0097] Corresponding to this FC output power U, the FC input hydrogen flow rate F is also between F3.5 and F4.

[0098] In this case, the number of water supply containers N is set to 4. Also, since the fractional part of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F is greater than F0.5, the water supply method is the same as in the basic embodiment described above, with a standard amount Q100 supplied to 4 (=N) hydrogen containers 3. This is shown in Figure 5(D).

[0099] As a result, the hydrogen production amount G is set to G4. In this case, the amount of hydrogen production G that exceeds the FC input hydrogen flow rate F is the same as in the basic embodiment described above.

[0100] The control flowchart in this modified example is the same as that shown in Figure 3. However, the water supply method in step S103 is different compared to the basic embodiment.

[0101] The control of this modified example can be described in a higher-level concept as follows: The range of FC input hydrogen flow rate F from 0 to a predetermined maximum value is divided into n (where n is the number of hydrogen containers 3) first regions by multiple thresholds F1, F2, ... F5. ECU6 is When the value of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F belongs to the m-th (where m is an integer from 1 to n) first region, counting from the low flow rate side, and is an intermediate value that is not equal to 0, the maximum value, or the threshold value, (m-1) hydrogen containers 3 are supplied with a standard amount Q100, and one hydrogen container 3 is supplied with an amount less than the standard amount Q100. Control the water supply device 4.

[0102] More specifically, the control of this modified example can be described as a higher-level concept as follows: "The range of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F from 0 to a predetermined maximum value is divided into n (where n is the number of hydrogen containers 3) first regions." Each first region is divided into p (where p is an integer greater than or equal to 2) second regions. ECU6 is When the value of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F belongs to the m-th first region counting from the low flow rate side, and also belongs to the q-th second region (where q is an integer from 1 to p) counting from the low flow rate side, A standard amount Q100 is supplied to (m-1) hydrogen containers 3, and an amount of (standard amount Q100 × q / p) is supplied to one hydrogen container 3. Control the water supply device 4.

[0103] In this modified example, n = 6, and the points divided into six first regions are the same as those in the basic embodiment. Also, p = 2, and each first region is divided into two second regions. These second regions are as follows in order from the low flow rate side. In the first first region, the region where F0 < F ≤ F0.5 is the first second region, and the region where F0.5 < F ≤ F1 is the second second region. In the second first region, the region where F1 < F ≤ F1.5 is the first second region, and the region where F1.5 < F ≤ F2 is the second second region. In the third first region, the region where F2 < F ≤ F2.5 is the first second region, and the region where F2.5 < F ≤ F3 is the second second region. In the fourth first region, the region where F3 < F ≤ F3.5 is the first second region, and the region where F3.5 < F ≤ F4 is the second second region. In the fifth first region, the region where F4 < F ≤ F4.5 is the first second region, and the region where F4.5 < F ≤ F5 is the second second region. In the sixth first region, the region where F5 < F ≤ F5.5 is the first second region, and the region where F5.5 < F ≤ F6 is the second second region.

[0104] F0.5, F1.5, ··· F5.5 are also predetermined threshold values.

[0105] In this modified example, at times t1 to t2, the value of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F belongs to the sixth (m = 6) first region and the first (q = 1) second region. Therefore, the reference amount Q100 is supplied to five hydrogen containers 3, and Q50 (= Q100 × 1 / 2) is supplied to one hydrogen container 3.

[0106] At times t2 to t3, the value of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F belongs to the second (m = 2) first region and the first (q = 1) second region. Therefore, the reference amount Q100 is supplied to one hydrogen container 3, and Q50 is supplied to one hydrogen container 3.

[0107] From time t3 onward, the value of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F falls into the fourth (m=4) first region and the second (q=2) second region. Therefore, the standard amount Q100 is supplied to the four hydrogen containers 3.

[0108] In this modified example, the range of FC input hydrogen flow rate F from F0 to F6 is equally divided into six first regions, but this division is not necessarily required. Also, in this modified example, the first region is equally divided into two second regions, but this division is not necessarily required.

[0109] Thus, this modified version allows not only to change the number of water supply containers N according to the detected FC input hydrogen flow rate F, but also to finely adjust the water supply amount for fractional amounts of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F. Therefore, the supply-demand balance between the amount of hydrogen produced by the hydrogen generator 2 and the power output from the FC stack 1 can be more optimally maintained. Furthermore, it is possible to further suppress the wasteful production of hydrogen and further reduce the storage space required to store surplus hydrogen, making it possible to further miniaturize the hydrogen container 3.

[0110] [Second variation] Next, a second modified example will be described with reference to Figure 7. This second modified example is a variation of the first modified example and aims to further refine the hydrogen production amount G.

[0111] In other words, in the first modification, p=2, and the first region is divided into two second regions. In contrast, in the second modification, p=4, and the first region is divided into four second regions.

[0112] In the example shown in Figure 7, the way in which the FC output power U shown in (A) and the FC input hydrogen flow rate F shown in (B) change is the same as described above.

[0113] Between times t1 and t2, the FC output power U is greater than U5 but less than U5.25, falling between U5 and U5.25.

[0114] Corresponding to this FC output power U, the FC input hydrogen flow rate F is also between F5 and F5.25.

[0115] In this case, the number of water supply containers N is assumed to be 6. However, the method of water supply differs from the first modified example; a standard amount Q100 is supplied to each of the 5 hydrogen containers 3, but only 25% of the standard amount Q100, or Q25, is supplied to one hydrogen container 3. Figure 8 shows the process when supplying Q25. Compared to the case where Q100 is supplied, the water supply cycle τ is the same, but the opening time of the solenoid valve 10 is 1 / 4. Figure 7(D) shows that at times t1 to t2, a standard amount Q100 is supplied to each of the N-1=5 hydrogen containers 3, but Q25 is supplied to one hydrogen container 3.

[0116] As a result, the hydrogen production amount G is set to G5.25, and compared to the first modification, the amount of hydrogen produced G that exceeds the FC input hydrogen flow rate F is reduced. This further prevents the overproduction of hydrogen.

[0117] Next, at times t2 to t3, the FC output power U is between U1.25 and U1.5.

[0118] Corresponding to this FC output power U, the FC input hydrogen flow rate F is also between F1.25 and F1.5.

[0119] In this case as well, the number of water supply containers N is assumed to be 2. However, the method of water supply differs from the first modified example; one hydrogen container 3 is supplied with a standard amount Q100, but only one hydrogen container 3 is supplied with Q50. This is shown in Figure 5(D).

[0120] As a result, the hydrogen production amount G is set to G1.5. The amount of hydrogen production G exceeding the FC input hydrogen flow rate F is the same as in the first modification.

[0121] Next, from time t3 onward, the FC output power U is between U3.5 and U3.75.

[0122] Corresponding to this FC output power U, the FC input hydrogen flow rate F also has a value between F3.5 and F3.75.

[0123] In this case, the number of water supply containers N is four. However, unlike the first modification example, the way of water supply is such that for three hydrogen containers 3, water supply of the reference amount Q100 is performed, but for one hydrogen container 3, only water supply of Q75, which is 75% of the reference amount Q100, is performed. This is shown in FIG. 5(D).

[0124] As a result, the hydrogen production amount G becomes G3.75, and compared with the first modification example, the hydrogen production amount G exceeding the FC input hydrogen flow rate F is reduced. Thereby, overproduction of hydrogen can be further prevented.

[0125] Although the state when water supply of Q75 is performed is not shown in the drawings, compared with the case of performing water supply of Q100, the valve opening time of the solenoid valve 10 is 3 / 4.

[0126] The control flowchart in this modification example is also the same as that shown in FIG. 3. However, compared with the first modification example, the water supply method in step S103 is different.

[0127] Also in this modification example, n = 6, and it is divided into six first regions. Further, p = 4, and each first region is divided into four second regions. These second regions are as follows in order from the low flow rate side. In the first first region, the region where F0 < F ≤ F0.25 is the first second region, the region where F0.25 < F ≤ F0.5 is the second second region, the region where F0.5 < F ≤ F0.75 is the third second region, and the region where F0.75 < F ≤ F1 is the fourth second region. In the second first region, the region where F1 < F ≤ F1.25 is the first second region, the region where F1.25 < F ≤ F1.5 is the second second region, the region where F1.5 < F ≤ F1.75 is the third second region, and the region where F1.75 < F ≤ F2 is the fourth second region. In the third first region, the region where F2 < F ≤ F2.25 is the first second region, the region where F2.25 < F ≤ F2.5 is the second second region, the region where F2.5 < F ≤ F2.75 is the third second region, and the region where F2.75 < F ≤ F3 is the fourth second region. In the fourth first region, the region where F3 < F ≤ F3.25 is the first second region, the region where F3.25 < F ≤ F3.5 is the second second region, the region where F3.5 < F ≤ F3.75 is the third second region, and the region where F3.75 < F ≤ F4 is the fourth second region. In the fifth first region, the region where F4 < F ≤ F4.25 is the first second region, the region where F4.25 < F ≤ F4.5 is the second second region, the region where F4.5 < F ≤ F4.75 is the third second region, and the region where F4.75 < F ≤ F5 is the fourth second region. In the sixth first region, the region where F5 < F ≤ F5.25 is the first second region, the region where F5.25 < F ≤ F5.5 is the second second region, the region where F5.5 < F ≤ F5.75 is the third second region, and the region where F5.75 < F ≤ F6 is the fourth second region.

[0128] In this modification example, at times t1 to t2, the value of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F belongs to the sixth (m = 6) first region and the first (q = 1) second region. Therefore, the reference amount Q100 is supplied to 5 hydrogen containers 3, and Q25 (= Q100 × 1 / 4) is supplied to 1 hydrogen container 3.

[0129] At times t2 to t3, the value of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F belongs to the second (m = 2) first region and the second (q = 2) second region. Therefore, the reference amount Q100 is supplied to 1 hydrogen container 3, and Q50 (= Q100 × 2 / 4) is supplied to 1 hydrogen container 3.

[0130] After time t3, the value of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F belongs to the fourth (m = 4) first region and the third (q = 3) second region. Therefore, the reference amount Q100 is supplied to 3 hydrogen containers 3, and Q75 (= Q100 × 3 / 4) is supplied to 1 hydrogen container 3.

[0131] In this modified example, the first region is divided equally into four second regions, but it is not necessary to divide it equally.

[0132] Thus, this modified version optimizes the supply-demand balance between the FC input hydrogen flow rate F and the hydrogen production amount G compared to the first modified version. Furthermore, it further suppresses the wasteful production of hydrogen and reduces the storage space required to store surplus hydrogen, making it possible to further miniaturize the hydrogen container 3.

[0133] Note that the number of divisions p in the first region may be a value other than 2 or 4. The number of divisions p can be 3, or 5 or more. Naturally, the more divisions p there are, the finer the resolution will be.

[0134] [Third variation] Next, I will explain the third modification. This third modification refines the hydrogen production amount G by changing the water supply cycle instead of the water supply amount. The following explanation will be based on the second modification.

[0135] For example, if the water supply cycle is changed while keeping the amount of water supplied per use constant at the standard amount Q100, the longer the water supply cycle, the less water is supplied per unit time. For instance, if the water supply cycle is changed from the standard cycle τ to twice that cycle, τ×2, the amount of water supplied per unit time becomes half. This is equivalent to keeping the water supply cycle constant while reducing the amount of water supplied per use to half of the standard amount Q100.

[0136] Therefore, in this modified example, the amount of water supplied per cycle is kept constant at the standard amount Q100, and the fractional amount of hydrogen is generated by changing the water supply cycle.

[0137] The control of this modified example can be described in a higher-level concept as follows: "The range of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F from 0 to a predetermined maximum value is divided into n (where n is the number of hydrogen containers 3) first regions." Each first region is divided into p (where p is an integer greater than or equal to 2) second regions. ECU6 is When the value of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F belongs to the m-th (where m is an integer from 1 to n) first region counting from the low flow rate side, and also belongs to the q-th (where q is an integer from 1 to p) second region counting from the low flow rate side, A standard amount Q100 is supplied to (m-1) hydrogen containers 3 at predetermined standard cycles τ, and a standard amount Q100 is supplied to one hydrogen container 3 at cycles of (standard cycle τ × p / q), Control the water supply device 4.

[0138] In this modified example, since it is based on the second modified example, p=4 is set, and the first region is divided into four second regions.

[0139] Although not shown in the diagram, in the example shown in Figure 7, at times t1 to t2, the value of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F belongs to the 6th (m=6) first region and the 1st (q=1) second region. Therefore, a standard amount Q100 is supplied to the five hydrogen containers 3 at standard cycles τ, and a standard amount Q100 is supplied to one hydrogen container 3 at (τ × 4 / 1) cycles.

[0140] Between times t2 and t3, the value of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F belongs to the second (m=2) first region and the second (q=2) second region. Therefore, a standard amount Q100 is supplied to one hydrogen container 3 at a standard period τ, and a standard amount Q100 is supplied to one hydrogen container 3 at a period of (τ × 4 / 2).

[0141] From time t3 onward, the value of the FC input hydrogen flow rate F falls into the 4th (m=4) first region and the 3rd (q=3) second region. Therefore, a standard amount Q100 is supplied to the three hydrogen containers 3 at standard cycles τ, and a standard amount Q100 is supplied to one hydrogen container 3 at (τ × 4 / 3) cycles.

[0142] Thus, this modified version also optimizes the supply-demand balance between the FC input hydrogen flow rate F and the hydrogen production amount G. Furthermore, it further suppresses the wasteful production of hydrogen and reduces the storage space required for surplus hydrogen, making it possible to further miniaturize the hydrogen container 3.

[0143] [Fourth variation] Next, I will explain the fourth modification. This fourth modification concerns the timing of water supply during water supply.

[0144] As shown in Figure 9, in the embodiments and modified examples described above, the timing of water supply when supplying water to multiple hydrogen containers 3 is the same for each hydrogen container 3.

[0145] The illustrated example shows the process of supplying water to hydrogen container 3 #1 (B) and hydrogen container 3 #2 (C). Water is supplied to both containers at equal timings t1, t2... (indicated as "1, 2,..." in the diagram) every period τ.

[0146] However, this results in hydrogen being generated simultaneously from both containers, and as shown in (A), there is a problem in that the pressure P of the generated hydrogen fluctuates greatly.

[0147] Furthermore, if water is forcibly supplied from the water tank 7 to the hydrogen container 3 by a water pump, the solenoid valves 10 for both containers open at the same time during water supply, resulting in a large volume of water being delivered. This necessitates a high-rated pump, increasing manufacturing costs and power consumption.

[0148] In contrast, as shown in Figure 10, in this modified example, when supplying water to multiple hydrogen containers 3, the timing of water supply to each hydrogen container 3 is staggered.

[0149] In the illustrated example, (B)#1 hydrogen container 3 is supplied with water at timings t1, t2, etc. In contrast, (C)#2 hydrogen container 3 is supplied with water at timings s1, s2, etc., which are shifted by Δτ from the timings t1, t2, etc. Note that the period of the water supply timing for both containers is the same in terms of τ.

[0150] This staggers the timing of hydrogen generation from both containers, thus reducing fluctuations in the pressure P of the generated hydrogen, as shown in (A).

[0151] Furthermore, when water is forcibly supplied from the water tank 7 to the hydrogen container 3 by a water pump, the solenoid valves 10 for both containers open at different timings during water supply. As a result, the amount of water supplied is averaged out and reduced, allowing the use of a lower-rated pump, which in turn reduces manufacturing costs and power consumption.

[0152] The water supply method of this modified example is applicable to both the embodiment and the modified example described above.

[0153] Although embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail above, various other embodiments and modifications of this disclosure are conceivable.

[0154] In the above embodiment, a capacitor 16 was used as the energy storage device, but other energy storage devices, such as a battery, may also be used.

[0155] The hydrogen power generation device 100 can be used for any purpose. For example, the hydrogen power generation device 100 may be used for a vehicle. In this case, the electrical load 17 can be a vehicle drive motor, electric auxiliary equipment, etc.

[0156] The embodiments of this disclosure are not limited to those described above, but include any variations, applications, and equivalents encompassed within the spirit of this disclosure as defined by the claims. Therefore, this disclosure should not be constrained, but can be applied to any other art that falls within the scope of the spirit of this disclosure. [Explanation of symbols]

[0157] 1 Fuel cell stack 2. Hydrogen generator 3. Hydrogen container 4 Water supply device 6. Electronic control unit 10 Solenoid valve 15 Flow Sensor 100 Hydrogen power generation equipment H Powder

Claims

1. Multiple hydrogen containers, each containing granular material made of hydrogen storage alloy, A water supply device configured to supply water individually to multiple hydrogen containers, A fuel cell stack that generates electricity using hydrogen produced by the reaction of powder and water, A flow sensor for detecting the flow rate of hydrogen introduced into the fuel cell stack, A control unit configured to control the water supply device based on the detected flow rate detected by the flow sensor, Equipped with, The control unit controls the water supply device so that the number of hydrogen containers supplied with water is changed according to the detected flow rate value. A hydrogen power generation device characterized by the following features.

2. The control unit controls the water supply device such that the number of hydrogen containers supplied with water increases as the detected flow rate value increases. The hydrogen power generation apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The range of the detected flow rate from 0 to a predetermined maximum value is divided into n (where n is the number of hydrogen containers) first regions. The control unit is When the detected flow rate value falls into the m-th (where m is an integer from 1 to n)-th first region, counting from the low flow rate side, a predetermined standard amount of water is supplied to m hydrogen containers. Control the water supply device The hydrogen power generation apparatus according to claim 1.

4. The range of the detected flow rate from 0 to a predetermined maximum value is divided into n (where n is the number of hydrogen containers) first regions by a plurality of thresholds. The control unit is When the detected flow rate value belongs to the first region that is m-th (where m is an integer from 1 to n) from the low flow rate side, and is an intermediate value that is not equal to 0, the maximum value, or the threshold value, A predetermined standard amount of water is supplied to (m-1) of the hydrogen containers, and a smaller amount than the standard amount is supplied to one of the hydrogen containers. Control the water supply device The hydrogen power generation apparatus according to claim 1.

5. The range of the detected flow rate from 0 to a predetermined maximum value is divided into n (where n is the number of hydrogen containers) first regions. Each of the aforementioned first regions is divided into p (where p is an integer greater than or equal to 2) second regions, The control unit is When the detected flow rate value belongs to the m-th (where m is an integer from 1 to n)-th first region counting from the low flow rate side, and also belongs to the q-th (where q is an integer from 1 to p)-th second region counting from the low flow rate side, A predetermined standard amount of water is supplied to (m-1) of the hydrogen containers, and an amount of (the standard amount × q / p) of water is supplied to one of the hydrogen containers. Control the water supply device The hydrogen power generation apparatus according to claim 1.

6. The range of the detected flow rate from 0 to a predetermined maximum value is divided into n (where n is the number of hydrogen containers) first regions. Each of the aforementioned first regions is divided into p (where p is an integer greater than or equal to 2) second regions, The control unit is When the detected flow rate value belongs to the m-th (where m is an integer from 1 to n)-th first region counting from the low flow rate side, and also belongs to the q-th (where q is an integer from 1 to p)-th second region counting from the low flow rate side, A predetermined standard amount of water is supplied to (m-1) of the hydrogen containers at predetermined intervals, and the same standard amount of water is supplied to one of the hydrogen containers at intervals of (the above interval × p / q), Control the water supply device The hydrogen power generation apparatus according to claim 1.

7. The range of the detected flow rate from 0 to the maximum value is equally divided into n first regions. A hydrogen power generation apparatus according to any one of claims 3 to 6.

8. Each of the first regions is equally divided into p second regions. A hydrogen power generation device according to claim 5 or 6.

9. The control unit is A predetermined amount of water is supplied to the hydrogen container at predetermined intervals. When supplying water to multiple hydrogen containers, the timing of water supply to each hydrogen container is staggered. Control the water supply device The hydrogen power generation apparatus according to claim 1.

10. The hydrogen storage alloy is magnesium hydride. The hydrogen power generation apparatus according to claim 1.

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