Fuel Cell Systems

Abstract

This fuel cell system is provided with: a first control unit which controls a fuel cell module that comprises a cell stack; and a second control unit which controls an auxiliary unit that comprises peripheral equipment of the fuel cell module. With respect to this fuel cell system, the first control unit is physically or virtually independent from the second control unit.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a fuel cell system, a fuel cell module, and an auxiliary unit. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, there is known a fuel cell system having a fuel cell module having a cell stack and an auxiliary unit having peripheral devices of the fuel cell module, such as an air blower and a pump (for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Furthermore, a technology is also known in which a fuel cell system is constructed by combining a fuel cell module, which is a modularized fuel cell, with an auxiliary unit (for example, Patent Document 2). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2016-76367 A [Patent Document 2] JP 2017-152097 A Summary of the Invention

[0005] The disclosed fuel cell system comprises a first control unit that controls a fuel cell module having a cell stack, and a second control unit that controls an auxiliary unit having peripheral equipment of the fuel cell module, and the first control unit is physically or virtually independent from the second control unit.

[0006] The disclosed fuel cell module has a cell stack, and is provided with a control unit that is physically or virtually independent from a predetermined control unit that controls an auxiliary unit having peripheral devices of the fuel cell module.

[0007] The disclosed auxiliary unit has peripheral equipment for a fuel cell module having a cell stack, and includes a control unit that is physically or virtually independent from a predetermined control unit that controls the fuel cell module. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a fuel cell system 100 according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the first control unit 50 and the second control unit 60 according to the embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a notification method according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a first control unit 50 and a second control unit 60 according to the first modified example. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a first control unit 50 and a second control unit 60 according to the first modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description of the drawings, the same or similar parts are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals. However, the drawings are schematic.

[0010] [Embodiment] (Fuel Cell System) The fuel cell system will now be described.

[0011] As shown in FIG. 1, the fuel cell system 100 includes a fuel cell module 10, an auxiliary unit 20, a hot water storage tank 30, a PCS (Power Conditioning System) 40, a first control unit 50, and a second control unit 60.

[0012] The fuel cell module 10 is a module that generates electricity using fuel. For example, the fuel cell module 10 has at least a cell stack 11, and in this specification, the cell stack 11 that is entirely covered in some way is called a fuel cell module. In FIG. 1, the fuel cell module 10 further has a reformer 12 and a heater 13.

[0013] The cell stack 11 generates electricity through a chemical reaction between the reformed gas and air (oxygen) supplied from a blower 21 (described later). Each cell has a structure in which an electrolyte is sandwiched between a fuel electrode and a cathode. The reformed gas is supplied to the fuel electrode, and air is supplied to the cathode. A chemical reaction between the reformed gas and air occurs in the electrolyte, generating electricity and heat.

[0014] The reformer 12 generates a reformed gas from the fuel. For example, the reformed gas is a gas containing hydrogen.

[0015] The heater 13 ignites the fuel that has not undergone chemical reaction in the cell stack 11 (hereinafter, unreacted fuel), and maintains the temperature of the cell stack 11 at a high temperature (for example, 600° C. to 1000° C.).

[0016] Although not particularly limited, the fuel cell module 10 may have a configuration other than the cell stack 11, the reformer 12, and the heater 13. For example, the fuel cell module 10 may have a sensor that measures the temperature of the fuel cell module 10 or the reformer 12. The fuel cell module 10 may be referred to as a hot module.

[0017] The auxiliary unit 20 is a unit that includes peripheral devices of the fuel cell module. For example, the auxiliary unit 20 includes a blower 21, a pump 22, and a heat exchanger 23.

[0018] The blower 21 is a device that sends in gas. For example, the blower 21 may include a blower that sends air to the cell stack 11 (air electrode), a blower that sends air to the reformer 12 to be used for selective oxidation of carbon monoxide, and the like.

[0019] The pump 22 is a device that feeds a liquid. For example, the pump 22 may include a pump that feeds fuel to the reformer 12 (desulfurizer), a pump that feeds reforming water used for reforming the fuel to the reformer 12, a pump that feeds cooling water used for cooling the cell stack 11 to the cell stack 11 (cooler), a pump that feeds water from the heat exchanger 23 side to the hot water storage tank 30 side, etc.

[0020] The heat exchanger 23 is a device that recovers exhaust heat generated in the cell stack 11. A return pipe is connected to the heat exchanger 23. The return pipe forms a water flow path from the hot water storage tank 30 side to the heat exchanger 23 side and a water flow path from the heat exchanger 23 side to the hot water storage tank 30 side. The heat exchanger 23 recovers exhaust heat by heating water supplied from the hot water storage tank 30 via the return pipe. The heat exchanger 23 may not be included in the auxiliary unit 20, and may form a hot water storage unit together with the hot water storage tank 30.

[0021] The hot water tank 30 is a tank that stores water. A return pipe is connected to the hot water tank 30. The water on the heat exchanger 23 side is warmed by the heat exchanger 23 (the exhaust heat of the fuel cell module 10) and then returned to the hot water tank 30.

[0022] The PCS 40 includes a DC / DC converter that adjusts the voltage of the DC power generated by the fuel cell module 10, a DC / AC converter that converts the DC power into AC power, and the like.

[0023] The auxiliary unit 20 may have a configuration other than the blower 21, the pump 22, and the heat exchanger 23. For example, the auxiliary unit 20 may have a desulfurizer that removes a putrid odorant from the fuel and supplies the fuel (reformed gas) from which the putrid odorant has been removed to the cell stack 11, or may have a radiator that cools the cell stack 11.

[0024] The first control unit 50 controls the fuel cell module 10. The first control unit 50 is virtually or physically independent from the second control unit 60. In the embodiment, the first control unit 50 may be an example of a first control unit or an example of a predetermined control unit.

[0025] The first control unit 50 may be included in the fuel cell module 10. The first control unit 50 does not have to be included in the fuel cell module 10. For example, the first control unit 50 may be mounted on a board configured as a separate entity from the fuel cell module 10.

[0026] The second control unit 60 controls the auxiliary unit 20. The second control unit 60 is virtually or physically independent from the first control unit 50. In the embodiment, the second control unit 60 may be an example of the second control unit or an example of the predetermined control unit.

[0027] The second control unit 60 may be included in the auxiliary equipment unit 20. The second control unit 60 does not have to be included in the auxiliary equipment unit 20. For example, the second control unit 60 may be mounted on a board configured separately from the auxiliary equipment unit 20.

[0028] (First control unit and second control unit) The first control unit and the second control unit will be described in detail below.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 2, the first control unit 50 has a fuel cell interface 51 (hereinafter, fuel cell I / F 51), an inter-controller interface 52 (hereinafter, inter-controller I / F 52), and a control function unit 53.

[0030] The fuel cell I / F 51 is an interface for connecting each component of the fuel cell module 10 to the first control unit 50. For example, the fuel cell I / F 51 is connected to the cell stack 11 and may output a control command related to the cell stack 11. The fuel cell I / F 51 is connected to the reformer 12 and may output a control command related to the reformer 12. The fuel cell I / F 51 is connected to the heater 13 and may output a control command related to the heater 13.

[0031] Furthermore, the fuel cell I / F 51 may be connected to a sensor that detects the state of the fuel cell module 10, and may receive the detection results of the sensor. The sensor may include a sensor that detects the temperature of the fuel cell module 10 or the reformer 12, or may include a sensor that detects the flow rate of a fluid (gas or liquid) fed to the fuel cell module. The temperature of the fuel cell module 10 may include an internal temperature of the fuel cell module 10 (e.g., the temperature of the cell stack 11), or an external temperature of the fuel cell module 10 (e.g., the outside air temperature).

[0032] The inter-controller I / F 52 is an interface for connecting the second control unit 60 to the first control unit 50. The inter-controller I / F 52 notifies the second control unit 60 of various information elements and receives various information elements from the second control unit 60. In the embodiment, the inter-controller I / F 52 constitutes a notification unit that notifies the second control unit 60 of specific information elements related to the state of the fuel cell module 10.

[0033] The control function unit 53 controls each component of the fuel cell module 10. The control function unit 53 generates control commands for the cell stack 11, the reformer 12, the heater 13, and the like.

[0034] The second control unit 60 has an auxiliary equipment interface 61 (hereinafter, auxiliary equipment I / F 61), an inter-control unit interface 62 (hereinafter, inter-control unit I / F 62), a communication function unit 63, and a control function unit 64.

[0035] The auxiliary I / F 61 is an interface for connecting each component of the auxiliary unit 20 to the second control unit 60. For example, the auxiliary I / F 61 is connected to the blower 21 and may output a control command related to the blower 21. The auxiliary I / F 61 is connected to the pump 22 and may output a control command related to the pump 22. The auxiliary I / F 61 is connected to the heat exchanger 23 and may output a control command related to the heat exchanger 23.

[0036] The inter-controller I / F 62 is an interface for connecting the first control unit 50 to the second control unit 60. The inter-controller I / F 62 notifies the first control unit 50 of various information elements and receives various information elements from the first control unit 50. In the embodiment, the inter-controller I / F 62 constitutes a receiving unit that receives specific information elements related to the state of the fuel cell module 10 from the first control unit 50.

[0037] The communication function unit 63 executes communication with a device external to the second control unit 60. The external device may be the PCS 40, an EMS (Energy Management System) that manages the power of a facility having the fuel cell system 100, or an OAM (Operations Administration and Maintenance) server that manages the operating state of the fuel cell module 10, the auxiliary unit 20, or the fuel cell system 100.

[0038] The control function unit 64 controls each component of the auxiliary unit 20. The control function unit 64 generates a control command for the blower 21, a control command for the pump 22, a control command for the heat exchanger 23, and the like.

[0039] (Specific Information Element) The specific information element will be described below. The specific information element may be an information element that the second control unit 60 does not know and that the first control unit 50 can know. The specific information element may be an information element that the second control unit 60 does not know and that can be used to control the auxiliary unit 20. For example, the specific information element may include the information elements shown below.

[0040] (Driving state) The specific information element may include an information element related to the operating state of the fuel cell module 10. The operating state can be managed by the first control unit 50.

[0041] The operating state may include a power generation state. The power generation state may include one or more states selected from among power generation, stopped operation (hereinafter, sometimes simply referred to as stopped), starting up, stopping operation, and idling. Power generation is a state in which the fuel cell module 10 is generating power. Stopping is a state in which the fuel cell module 10 is stopped. Starting up is a state in which the fuel cell module 10 is in transition from stopped to generating power. Stopping is a state in which the fuel cell module 10 is in transition from generating power to stopped. Idle is a state in which the fuel cell module 10 is not generating power, but the temperature of the cell stack 11 is maintained at a predetermined temperature. The predetermined temperature may be approximately the same as the power generation temperature (for example, 600°C to 1000°C), or may be a temperature lower than the power generation temperature (for example, 450°C to 600°C).

[0042] The operating state may include a shutdown state, in which the fuel cell module 10 is forcibly stopped due to an abnormality in the fuel cell module 10.

[0043] Under such a premise, the first control unit 50 may notify the second control unit 60 of information elements related to the driving operation state in response to a request from the second control unit 60. The first control unit 50 may notify the second control unit 60 of information elements related to the driving operation state in response to a predetermined trigger, not in response to a request from the second control unit 60. The predetermined trigger may be a change in the driving operation state.

[0044] (Deteriorated state) The specific information element may include an information element regarding the degradation state of the fuel cell module 10. The degradation state can be managed by the first control unit 50.

[0045] The information element regarding the degradation state may be an information element indicating the accumulated operating time of the fuel cell module 10. For example, the accumulated operating time may be the accumulated time during which the fuel cell module 10 is generating electricity, or may be the accumulated time other than the time during which the fuel cell module 10 is stopped.

[0046] The information element regarding the degraded state may be an information element indicating the output voltage value of the fuel cell module 10. Such an output voltage value can be used to identify the degraded state by comparing it with the output voltage value (initial value) of the fuel cell module 10 in an initial state. Here, the comparison between the two may be performed based on a predetermined operation of the fuel cell module. The predetermined operation of the fuel cell module may be an operation in which the fuel cell module 10 outputs a rated power.

[0047] The information element regarding the degraded state may be an information element indicating the internal temperature of the fuel cell module 10 (e.g., the temperature of the cell stack 11). Such a temperature can be used to identify the degraded state by comparing it with the internal temperature of the fuel cell module 10 in an initial state (initial value). Here, the comparison between the two may be performed based on a predetermined operation of the fuel cell module. The predetermined operation of the fuel cell module may be an operation in which the fuel cell module 10 outputs a rated power.

[0048] The information element regarding the degraded state may be an information element indicating an OCV (Open Circuit Voltage) at the time of starting up the fuel cell module 10. Such an OCV can be used to identify the degraded state by comparing it with an OCV (initial value) at the time of starting up the fuel cell module 10 in an initial state.

[0049] The information element relating to the degraded state may be an information element indicating the minimum output voltage value immediately after the start of power generation of the fuel cell module 10. Such a minimum voltage value can be used to identify the degraded state by comparing it with the minimum output voltage value (initial value) immediately after the start of power generation of the fuel cell module 10 in the initial state.

[0050] The information element regarding the degraded state may be an information element indicating a temperature rise rate of the internal temperature of the fuel cell module 10. The temperature rise rate may be a rate at which the temperature rises during start-up. Such a temperature rise rate can be used to identify the degraded state by comparing it with a temperature rise rate (initial value) of the internal temperature of the fuel cell module 10 in an initial state.

[0051] The information element regarding the degradation state may be an information element indicating a DC power value of the fuel cell module 10. Such a DC power value can be used to identify the degradation state by comparing it with the DC power value (initial value) of the fuel cell module 10 in an initial state.

[0052] The information element regarding the degraded state may be an information element indicating the time until the output power of the fuel cell module 10 reaches the rated power (hereinafter, referred to as the transition time). The time until the rated power is reached may be the transition time from immediately after the start of power generation until the rated power is reached. Such a transition time can be used to identify the degraded state by comparing it with the transition time (initial value) of the initial state.

[0053] The information element regarding the degradation state may be an information element indicating a level of the degradation state. The level of the degradation state may be determined by the first control unit 50 based on one or more parameters selected from the cumulative operation time, the output voltage value, the temperature of the cell stack 11, the OCV, the minimum output voltage value, the temperature rise rate, the DC power value, and the transition time.

[0054] Under such a premise, the first control unit 50 may notify the second control unit 60 of information elements related to the degradation state in response to a request from the second control unit 60. The first control unit 50 may notify the second control unit 60 of information elements related to the degradation state in response to a predetermined trigger, not in response to a request from the second control unit 60. The predetermined trigger may be a change in the level of the degradation state described above. The predetermined trigger may be a lapse of a predetermined time since the operating state transitions to power generation. The predetermined trigger may be a time during power generation (hereinafter, power generation time) reaching a predetermined time. The predetermined time may be a time that defines a regular timing (for example, 168 hours corresponding to about one week, 720 hours corresponding to about one month, etc.). The predetermined time may be a time that is defined according to the abnormality detection time of the home gas meter (for example, 11 hours, 600 hours) on the premise that fuel gas is supplied to the fuel cell system 100 via a home gas meter.

[0055] The power generation time is reset at predetermined time intervals. The predetermined trigger may be the arrival of a predetermined timing (e.g., 3:30). The predetermined trigger may be the stopping of the fuel cell module 10 when the continuous operation time of the fuel cell module 10 reaches a predetermined time.

[0056] (Temperature state) The specific information element may include an information element regarding the temperature state of the fuel cell module 10. The temperature state can be managed by the first control unit 50 on the premise that the internal temperature of the fuel cell module 10 (for example, the temperature of the cell stack 11) is acquired by the fuel cell I / F 51.

[0057] The information elements regarding the temperature state may include information elements indicating the internal temperature of the fuel cell module 10. The information elements regarding the temperature state may be information elements indicating the level of the temperature state of the fuel cell module 10. The level of the temperature state may include a level that prohibits work on the fuel cell module 10, a level that permits some work on the fuel cell module 10 (e.g., work on parts other than the heat transfer section), a level that permits all work on the fuel cell module 10, etc. In such a case, the information elements regarding the temperature state may be read as information elements regarding whether or not work can be performed on the fuel cell module 10.

[0058] Under such a premise, the first control unit 50 may notify the second control unit 60 of information elements related to the temperature state in response to a request from the second control unit 60. The first control unit 50 may notify the second control unit 60 of information elements related to the temperature state in response to a predetermined trigger, not in response to a request from the second control unit 60. The predetermined trigger may be a change in the level of the above-mentioned temperature state.

[0059] (Scheduled stop time) The specific information element may include an information element regarding a scheduled shutdown time of the fuel cell module 10. The scheduled shutdown time can be specified by the first control unit 50.

[0060] The scheduled stop time may be a scheduled time for the transition from power generation to stopped to be completed. The scheduled stop time may be represented by the remaining time until the transition from power generation to stopped is completed, or may be represented by an absolute time at which the transition from power generation to stopped is completed.

[0061] For example, at the timing of transition from power generation to shutdown, the first control unit 50 may determine the planned shutdown time based on at least one of the internal temperature and the external temperature of the fuel cell module 10. During the shutdown, the first control unit 50 may correct the planned shutdown time based on the rate of temperature drop of the internal temperature of the fuel cell module 10.

[0062] Here, the stopping operation may include two or more stopping operation stages. In such a case, the first control unit 50 may specify a scheduled time for each stopping operation stage to be completed.

[0063] Under such a premise, the first control unit 50 may notify the second control unit 60 of information elements related to the planned stop time in response to a request from the second control unit 60. The first control unit 50 may notify the second control unit 60 of information elements related to the planned stop time in response to a predetermined trigger, not in response to a request from the second control unit 60. The predetermined trigger may be a change in the planned stop time or a change in the stop operation stage.

[0064] (Scheduled power generation start time) The specific information element may include an information element related to the scheduled power generation start time of the fuel cell module 10. The scheduled power generation start time can be specified by the first control unit 50.

[0065] The scheduled power generation start time may be a scheduled time for the transition from stopped to power generating to be completed. The scheduled power generation start time may be represented by the remaining time until the transition from stopped to power generating to be completed, or may be represented by an absolute time at which the transition from stopped to power generating is completed.

[0066] For example, at the timing of transition from a stopped state to a started state, the first control unit 50 may determine the planned power generation start time based on at least one of the internal temperature and the external temperature of the fuel cell module 10. During start-up, the first control unit 50 may correct the planned power generation start time based on the rate of temperature rise related to the internal temperature of the fuel cell module 10.

[0067] Here, the start-up may include two or more start-up stages. In such a case, the first control unit 50 may specify the estimated time for each start-up stage to be completed. Each start-up stage may be determined according to the flow rate of reforming water fed to the fuel cell module 10. Also, each start-up stage may be determined according to the internal temperature, output voltage value, etc. of the fuel cell module 10.

[0068] Under such a premise, the first control unit 50 may notify the second control unit 60 of information elements related to the scheduled power generation start time in response to a request from the second control unit 60. The first control unit 50 may notify the second control unit 60 of information elements related to the scheduled power generation start time in response to a predetermined trigger, not in response to a request from the second control unit 60. The predetermined trigger may be a change in the scheduled power generation start time or a change in the startup phase.

[0069] (Can it be started?) The specific information element may include an information element regarding whether or not the fuel cell module 10 can be started.

[0070] The feasibility of start-up may be determined based on the internal temperature of the fuel cell module 10, or may be determined based on the external temperature of the fuel cell module 10. For example, if the internal temperature is higher than a threshold value, it may be determined that start-up is not possible, and if the internal temperature is lower than the threshold value, it may be determined that start-up is possible. If the external temperature is lower than the threshold value, it may be determined that start-up is not possible, and if the external temperature is higher than the threshold value, it may be determined that start-up is possible.

[0071] Under such a premise, the first control unit 50 may notify the second control unit 60 of information elements relating to whether or not start is possible in response to a request from the second control unit 60. The first control unit 50 may notify the second control unit 60 of information elements relating to whether or not start is possible in response to a predetermined trigger, not in response to a request from the second control unit 60. The predetermined trigger may be the satisfaction of a condition that does not allow start, or may be the satisfaction of a condition that allows start.

[0072] (Can it be stopped?) The specific information element may include an information element regarding whether or not the fuel cell module 10 can be shut down.

[0073] Whether or not the fuel cell system 100 can be stopped may be determined based on the grid-connected state of the fuel cell system 100. For example, it may be determined that the fuel cell system 100 cannot be stopped when the fuel cell system 100 is in an independent operation state, and it may be determined that the fuel cell system 100 can be stopped when the fuel cell system 100 is in a grid-connected operation state. Whether or not the fuel cell system can be stopped may be determined based on the operating state of the fuel cell module 10. For example, it may be determined that the fuel cell system cannot be stopped when the fuel cell module 10 is starting up, and it may be determined that the fuel cell system can be stopped when the fuel cell module 10 is generating power.

[0074] Here, even if the conditions for not being able to stop are met, the first control unit 50 may execute a shutdown due to an abnormality or the like of the fuel cell module 10. The first control unit 50 may notify the reason for not being able to stop as an information element regarding whether or not stopping is possible.

[0075] Under such a premise, the first control unit 50 may notify the second control unit 60 of information elements relating to whether or not the device can be stopped in response to a request from the second control unit 60. The first control unit 50 may notify the second control unit 60 of information elements relating to whether or not the device can be stopped in response to a predetermined trigger, not in response to a request from the second control unit 60. The predetermined trigger may be the satisfaction of a condition that prevents the device from being started, or may be the satisfaction of a condition that allows the device to be started.

[0076] (Fluid state) The specific information element may include an information element regarding the state of a fluid supplied from the auxiliary unit 20 to the fuel cell module 10. The fluid may include a gas or a liquid. The fluid can be managed by the first control unit 50 on the premise that the flow rate of the gas sent from the blower 21 to the fuel cell module 10 is acquired by the fuel cell I / F 51. Similarly, the fluid can be managed by the first control unit 50 on the premise that the flow rate of the liquid sent from the pump 22 to the fuel cell module 10 is acquired by the fuel cell I / F 51.

[0077] The information elements relating to the fluid state may include information elements indicating the flow rate of the fluid, and may include information elements indicating whether the fluid is being supplied. They may also include information elements relating to fuel (hereinafter, fuel gas), water, and air. The fuel gas may include raw gas sent to the reformer 12 (desulfurizer), or may include unburned gas that has not been used as fuel in the heater 13. The unburned gas may be determined by the temperature of the heater 13, or, if a combustion catalyst is used in the cell stack 11, may be determined by the temperature of the combustion catalyst.

[0078] Here, when transitioning from a state in which fluid cannot be supplied to a state in which fluid can be supplied, the first control unit 50 may notify an information element indicating that water can be supplied, and then notify an information element indicating that fuel can be supplied. When the internal temperature of the fuel cell module 10 is equal to or higher than a threshold value, the first control unit 50 may notify an information element indicating that water can be supplied, and then notify an information element indicating that fuel can be supplied. During a stop, the first control unit 50 may notify an information element indicating that air can be supplied, and then notify an information element indicating that fuel can be supplied, and may notify an information element indicating that fuel can be supplied, and then notify an information element indicating that water can be supplied.

[0079] Under such a premise, the first control unit 50 may notify the second control unit 60 of information elements related to the fluid state in response to a request from the second control unit 60. The first control unit 50 may notify the second control unit 60 of information elements related to the fluid state in response to a predetermined trigger, not in response to a request from the second control unit 60. The predetermined trigger may be the fuel cell module 10 being shut down, or the internal temperature of the fuel cell module 10 being higher than a threshold value.

[0080] (Abnormal state) The specific information element may include an information element regarding an abnormal state of the fuel cell module 10. The abnormal state can be identified by the first control unit 50.

[0081] The abnormal state may include an abnormal state of at least one of the components of the fuel cell module 10. The abnormal state may be determined based on the internal temperature of the fuel cell module 10. For example, it may be determined that an abnormal state has occurred when the internal temperature is higher than a threshold value. The abnormal state may be determined based on the flow rate of a fluid. For example, it may be determined that an abnormal state has occurred when the flow rate of the fluid is different from a predetermined flow rate. The predetermined flow rate may be determined according to the operating state of the fuel cell module 10. The predetermined flow rate may be determined by a flow rate requested from the first control unit 50 to the second control unit 60. The abnormal state may be determined based on the output power of the fuel cell module 10. For example, it may be determined that an abnormal state has occurred when the output power is not stabilized at a rated power or the like.

[0082] The information element regarding the abnormal state may explicitly or implicitly include an information element requesting the second control unit 60 to shut down the fuel cell module 10 .

[0083] Under such a premise, the first control unit 50 may notify the second control unit 60 of information elements related to the abnormal state in response to a request from the second control unit 60. The first control unit 50 may notify the second control unit 60 of information elements related to the abnormal state in response to a predetermined trigger, not in response to a request from the second control unit 60. The predetermined trigger may be detection of an abnormal state of the fuel cell module 10.

[0084] (Notification method) The notification method will be described below.

[0085] 3, in step S10, the first control unit 50 detects the state of the fuel cell module 10. As described above, the state may be one or more states selected from an operating state, a deteriorated state, a temperature state, a scheduled stop time, a scheduled power generation start time, start-up possible / not possible, stop-up possible / not possible, a fluid state, and an abnormal state.

[0086] In step S11, the first control unit 50 notifies the second control unit 60 of a specific information element related to the state of the fuel cell module 10. The first control unit 50 may notify the second control unit 60 of the specific information element in response to a request from the second control unit 60. The first control unit 50 may notify the second control unit 60 of the specific information element in response to a predetermined trigger, without being requested by the second control unit 60.

[0087] In step S12, the second control unit 60 may execute a specific process according to the specific information element. For example, the second control unit 60 may execute the following specific process.

[0088] The second control unit 60 may notify an external device (such as an EMS (Energy Management System)) of the operating state based on the information elements related to the operating state, or may control the PCS 40. With this configuration, the EMS can appropriately formulate a plan for controlling the power of the facility, etc., and the second control unit 60 can appropriately control the PCS 40.

[0089] The second control unit 60 may notify an external device (such as an OAM (Operations Administration and Maintenance) server that manages the maintenance of the fuel cell module 10) of the degradation state based on the information elements related to the degradation state. With this configuration, the maintenance of the fuel cell module 10 can be appropriately managed or executed.

[0090] The second control unit 60 may output an alert to the user based on the information element relating to the temperature state. With this configuration, an operator can perform maintenance on the fuel cell module 10 safely.

[0091] The second control unit 60 may notify an external device (such as an OAM server or a terminal of a worker performing maintenance on the fuel cell module 10) of the planned shutdown time based on the information element related to the planned shutdown time. With this configuration, it is possible to know the time when maintenance of the fuel cell module 10 can be started, thereby enabling the worker to appropriately formulate a plan to perform the maintenance.

[0092] The second control unit 60 may control the PCS 40 based on information elements related to the scheduled power generation start time. For example, the second control unit 60 may determine whether power generation is currently possible based on the scheduled power generation start time, and control the PCS 40 so that power is not supplied from the fuel cell module 10 to the PCS 40 until power generation becomes possible. The second control unit 60 may notify an external device (such as an EMS) of the scheduled power generation start time based on information elements related to the scheduled power generation start time. With this configuration, the EMS can grasp the timing when power can be output from the fuel cell system 100, and can appropriately formulate a plan to control the power of a facility, etc.

[0093] The second control unit 60 may output an alert to the user based on the information element regarding whether or not startup is possible. When the first control unit 50 has notified the user that startup is not possible, the second control unit 60 may output an alert to the effect that a failure of the fuel cell module 10 will occur if the user operates to start the fuel cell module 10. With this configuration, inappropriate user operations on the fuel cell module 10 can be suppressed.

[0094] The second control unit 60 may output an alert to the user based on the information element regarding whether or not the fuel cell module 10 can be stopped. When the fuel cell module 10 is stopped by a user operation in a situation where the first control unit 50 has notified the user that the fuel cell module 10 cannot be stopped during the independent operation state, the second control unit 60 may output an alert to the effect that a power supply stop (blackout) will occur. With this configuration, inappropriate user operations on the fuel cell module 10 can be suppressed.

[0095] The second control unit 60 may execute a shutdown of the fuel cell module 10 based on the information elements related to the fluid state. The second control unit 60 may output an alert to the user based on the information elements related to the fluid state. The alert may include an alert prompting the user to check whether a connector has come loose, or an alert prompting the user to check whether fluids such as fuel gas, water, and air are being sent and mixed into the fuel cell module 10. The alert may include an alert notifying that unburned gas is flowing. With this configuration, abnormalities in the fuel cell module 10 can be appropriately suppressed or resolved.

[0096] The second control unit 60 may execute a shutdown of the fuel cell module 10 based on the information element related to the abnormal state. The second control unit 60 may output an alert to the user based on the information element related to the abnormal state. The alert may include an alert prompting the user to check whether a connector has come loose, may include an alert prompting the user to check whether fluids such as fuel gas, water, and air are being sent and mixed into the fuel cell module 10, and may include an alert prompting the user to check whether the output current of the fuel cell module 10 is an appropriate value. With this configuration, the abnormality in the fuel cell module 10 can be appropriately suppressed or resolved.

[0097] (Action and Effects) In the embodiment, the first control unit 50 that controls the fuel cell module 10 is physically or virtually independent from the second control unit 60 that controls the auxiliary unit 20. With this configuration, even in a case where a new fuel cell module 10 is combined with an existing auxiliary unit 20 because the product lifespan of the fuel cell module 10 differs from that of the auxiliary unit 20, it is possible to suppress modification of the second control unit 60 that controls the existing auxiliary unit 20.

[0098] In the embodiment, the first control unit 50 notifies the second control unit 60 of a specific information element related to the state of the fuel cell module 10. With this configuration, the second control unit 60 can appropriately execute a specific process according to the specific information element. In other words, assuming a case in which a new fuel cell module 10 is combined with an existing auxiliary unit 20, since the specific information element is standardized, it is possible to suppress modification of the second control unit 60 that controls the existing auxiliary unit 20 while maintaining compatibility between the existing fuel cell module 10 and the new fuel cell module 10.

[0099] [Change Example 1] Modification 1 of the embodiment will be described below, with differences from the embodiment being described below.

[0100] Specifically, in the first modification, the hardware configuration related to the first control unit 50 and the second control unit 60 will be described.

[0101] First, a description will be given of a case in which the first control unit 50 and the second control unit 60 are physically independent. In such a case, the first control unit 50 and the second control unit 60 are configured by physically independent processors.

[0102] 4, the first control unit 50 is configured by a processor 300A, and the second control unit 60 is configured by a processor 300B. The first control unit 50 may be considered to be a program module implemented on the processor 300A. The second control unit 60 may be considered to be a program module implemented on the processor 300B.

[0103] The processor 300A may be configured by a single integrated circuit (IC) or may be configured by multiple circuits (such as integrated circuits and / or discrete circuits) that are communicatively connected. Similarly, the processor 300B may be configured by a single integrated circuit (IC) or may be configured by multiple circuits (such as integrated circuits and / or discrete circuits) that are communicatively connected.

[0104] The processor may be interpreted as a microcomputer or a microcontroller. The processor may be interpreted as a semiconductor chip. The processor may be interpreted as a PLD (Programmable Logic Device) such as an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array). The program module may be interpreted as firmware or software. The program module has a communication function and may be rewritten by an external device.

[0105] 4, the processor 300A may be considered to be included in the fuel cell module 10. Similarly, the processor 300B may be considered to be included in the accessory unit 20.

[0106] Secondly, a case will be described in which the first control unit 50 and the second control unit 60 are virtually independent. In such a case, the first control unit 50 and the second control unit 60 are configured by virtually independent program modules.

[0107] 5, the first control unit 50 and the second control unit 60 are configured by separate program modules implemented on a processor 300X. The processor 300X may be configured by a single integrated circuit (IC), or may be configured by a plurality of circuits (such as integrated circuits and / or discrete circuits) communicatively connected.

[0108] The processor may be interpreted as a microcomputer or a microcontroller. The processor may be interpreted as a semiconductor chip. The processor may be interpreted as a PLD (Programmable Logic Device) such as an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array). The program module may be interpreted as firmware or software. The program module has a communication function and may be rewritten by an external device.

[0109] 5, the processor 300X may be considered to be included in the fuel cell module 10, or may be considered to be included in the auxiliary unit 20. Considering that the fuel cell module 10 reaches high temperatures, the processor 300X is preferably included in the auxiliary unit 20.

[0110] 5, the inter-controller I / F 52 of the first control unit 50 notifies the inter-controller I / F 62 of the second control unit 60 of the specific information element by using the hardware resources of the processor 300X. In other words, the inter-controller I / F 62 of the second control unit 60 receives the specific information element from the inter-controller I / F 52 of the first control unit 50 by using the hardware resources of the processor 300X.

[0111] [Other embodiments] Although the present invention has been described by the above-mentioned embodiment, the description and drawings forming a part of this disclosure should not be understood as limiting the present invention. From this disclosure, various alternative embodiments, examples and operating techniques will become apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0112] Although not specifically mentioned in the above disclosure, the user may include a worker who performs maintenance on the fuel cell module 10, may include a user of the fuel cell system 100, or may include an administrator of the fuel cell system 100.

[0113] Although not specifically mentioned in the above disclosure, the fuel cell module 10 may be a solid oxide fuel cell module (SOFC; Solid Oxide Fuel Cell), a polymer electrolyte fuel cell module (PEFC; Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell), a phosphoric acid fuel cell module (PAFC; Phosphoric Acid Fuel Cell), or a molten carbonate fuel cell module (MCFC; Molten Carbonate Fuel Cell).

[0114] Although not specifically mentioned in the above disclosure, the above disclosure may contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which include Goal 7 (Affordable and clean energy), Goal 9 (Industry, innovation and infrastructure), Goal 11 (Sustainable cities and communities), and Goal 13 (Climate action). [Explanation of symbols]

[0115] 10... fuel cell module (fuel cell module), 11... cell stack (cell stack), 12... reformer, 13... heater, 20... auxiliary unit (auxiliary unit), 21... blower (peripheral device), 22... pump (peripheral device), 23... heat exchanger 23 (peripheral device), 30... hot water tank, 40... PCS, 50... first control unit (first control unit), 51... fuel cell I / F, 52... inter-control unit I / F, 53... control function unit, 60... second control unit (second control unit), 61... auxiliary I / F, 62... inter-control unit I / F, 63... communication function unit, 64... control function unit, 100... fuel cell system, 300A... processor, 300B... processor, 300X... processor

Claims

1. a first control unit that controls a fuel cell module having a cell stack; a second control unit that controls an auxiliary unit having peripheral devices of the fuel cell module; A power conditioning system (PCS) that converts the power generated by the fuel cell module; the first control unit includes a fuel cell interface for connecting to the fuel cell module, a first inter-controller interface for connecting to the second control unit, and a first control function unit for controlling the fuel cell module; The second control unit includes an auxiliary unit interface for connecting to the auxiliary unit, a second inter-control unit interface for connecting to the first control unit, a communication function unit for communicating with an external device including the PCS, and a second control function unit for controlling the auxiliary unit, A fuel cell system, wherein the first control unit is physically or virtually independent from the second control unit.

2. the first control unit includes a notification unit that notifies the second control unit of a specific information element related to a state of the fuel cell module; 2. The fuel cell system according to claim 1, wherein the second control unit includes a receiving unit that receives the specific information element from the first control unit.

3. 2. The fuel cell system according to claim 1, wherein the first control unit and the second control unit are configured by physically independent processors.

4. 2. The fuel cell system according to claim 1, wherein the first control unit and the second control unit are configured by virtually independent program modules.

5. The fuel cell system according to claim 2 , wherein the specific information element includes an information element relating to an operating status of the fuel cell module.

6. The fuel cell system according to claim 2 , wherein the specific information element includes an information element relating to a deterioration state of the fuel cell module.

7. 3. The fuel cell system according to claim 2, wherein the specific information element includes an information element relating to a temperature state of the fuel cell module.

8. The fuel cell system according to claim 2 , wherein the specific information element includes an information element relating to a scheduled shutdown time of the fuel cell module.

9. 3. The fuel cell system according to claim 2, wherein the specific information element includes an information element relating to a scheduled time for starting power generation of the fuel cell module.

10. The fuel cell system according to claim 2 , wherein the specific information element includes an information element relating to whether or not the fuel cell module can be started.

11. The fuel cell system according to claim 2 , wherein the specific information element includes an information element relating to whether or not the fuel cell module can be shut down.

12. The fuel cell system according to claim 2 , wherein the specific information element includes an information element relating to a state of a fluid supplied from the auxiliary unit to the fuel cell module.

13. The fuel cell system according to claim 2 , wherein the specific information element includes an information element relating to an abnormal state of the fuel cell module.

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