Power generation system

Abstract

We will realize a power generation system that can extract greater power using a temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid. [Solution] The power generation system (100) comprises an upper storage section (20) that stores a temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid (G), a power generation section (40) that generates power using the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid that falls from the upper storage section, a lower storage section (30) that stores the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid that flows down from the power generation section, a flow path (10) through which the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid circulates, a portion of which is open to the atmosphere, a fluid drive section (50) that is arranged between the lower storage section and the upper storage section in the flow path and applies a magnetic field to the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid in the flow path and heats it to drive it in the direction of circulation, and an opening / closing section (70) that controls the fall of the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid from the upper storage section.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a power generation system using a temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid. [Background technology]

[0002] Magnetic fluid pumps (thermomagnetic pumps) have been developed for the purpose of cooling and transporting heat from CPUs, etc. Magnetic fluid pumps use magnetic fluid (thermosensitive magnetic fluid) and apply a magnetic field to the magnetic fluid while heating it, converting thermal energy into kinetic energy to cause the magnetic fluid to flow.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a magnetic fluid power generating device that uses a magnetic fluid pump as a drive unit for circulating the magnetic fluid. The magnetic fluid power generating device includes a circulation flow path for the magnetic fluid, a drive unit for circulating the magnetic fluid, and a power generating unit interposed in the circulation flow path. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6474217 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 is a system in which the entire flow path is sealed, and although it is possible to convert thermal energy into kinetic energy, it does not convert it into potential energy and extract it to generate electricity.

[0006] Furthermore, in Patent Document 1, a configuration in which a water wheel (turbine) is installed in a sealed flow path is also conceivable. However, in the example disclosed in Patent Document 1, in the case of a flow path with a pipe diameter of approximately 5 mm and a flow rate of the magnetic fluid of approximately 40 mm / s, the calculated flow rate of the magnetic fluid is extremely low at approximately 0.8 mL / s. With such a flow rate, even if a water wheel (turbine) is installed in the flow path, it may not be possible to generate electricity. Furthermore, even if power generation were possible, only a very small amount of electricity would be obtained.

[0007] One way to deal with this is to charge and store the small amount of electricity generated in a storage battery, but storage batteries have problems with lifespan and deterioration, and there is also the risk of self-discharge. Furthermore, there is a limit to the amount of electricity that can be extracted from a storage battery in an instant, so they are not suitable for use in situations where a large amount of electricity is needed in an instant.

[0008] An object of one aspect of the present invention is to realize a power generation system that can extract larger electric power using a temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] In order to solve the above problems, the power generation system of aspect 1 of the present invention comprises an upper storage section for storing a thermosensitive magnetic fluid, a power generation section for generating power using the thermosensitive magnetic fluid falling from the upper storage section, a lower storage section for storing the thermosensitive magnetic fluid flowing down from the power generation section, a flow path partially open to the atmosphere through which the thermosensitive magnetic fluid circulates from the lower storage section to the upper storage section and from the upper storage section to the lower storage section via the power generation section, a fluid drive section disposed in the flow path between the lower storage section and the upper storage section for applying a magnetic field to the thermosensitive magnetic fluid in the flow path and heating the thermosensitive magnetic fluid to drive it in the circulating direction, and an opening / closing section for controlling the fall of the thermosensitive magnetic fluid from the upper storage section.

[0010] A power generation system according to aspect 2 of the present invention is the same as that of aspect 1, wherein the fluid drive unit includes a magnetic field application unit that applies a magnetic field to the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid in the flow path, and a heating unit that heats the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid in the flow path downstream of the magnetic field application unit in the circulation direction, and when driving starts, the downstream end of the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid in the circulation direction may be located downstream of the upstream end of the heating unit in the circulation direction.

[0011] A power generation system according to aspect 3 of the present invention is the same as that of aspect 1, wherein the fluid drive unit includes a magnetic field application unit that applies a magnetic field to the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid in the flow path, and a heating unit that heats the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid in the flow path downstream of the magnetic field application unit in the circulation direction, and when driving begins, the downstream end of the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid in the circulation direction may reach the downstream end of the magnetic field application unit in the circulation direction.

[0012] A power generation system according to aspect 4 of the present invention is the same as that of aspect 1, wherein the fluid drive unit includes a magnetic field application unit that applies a magnetic field to the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid in the flow path, and a heating unit that heats the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid in the flow path downstream of the magnetic field application unit in the circulation direction, and the magnetic field application unit and the lower storage unit may be arranged so that, when operation begins, the downstream end of the magnetic field application unit in the circulation direction is positioned below the liquid level in the lower storage unit.

[0013] A power generation system according to aspect 5 of the present invention is the same as that of aspect 1, wherein the fluid driving unit includes a magnetic field application unit that applies a magnetic field to the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid in the flow path, and a heating unit that heats the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid in the flow path downstream of the magnetic field application unit in the circulation direction, and an insulating unit may be provided between the magnetic field application unit and the heating unit.

[0014] A power generation system according to aspect 6 of the present invention is similar to aspect 1 in that the fluid drive unit includes multiple pairs of a magnetic field application unit that applies a magnetic field to the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid in the flow path and a heating unit that heats the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid in the flow path downstream of the magnetic field application unit in the circulation direction, and the multiple pairs may be arranged in series with respect to the flow path.

[0015] A power generation system according to aspect 7 of the present invention is such that, in aspect 1, the fluid drive unit includes a plurality of drive sets each having a magnetic field application unit that applies a magnetic field to the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid in the flow path and a heating unit that heats the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid in the flow path downstream of the magnetic field application unit in the circulation direction, and the flow path may be branched between the lower storage unit and the upper storage unit, and the plurality of drive sets may be arranged in the branched flow paths.

[0016] The power generation system of aspect 8 of the present invention may be, in aspect 1, further include a temperature stabilization unit that stabilizes the temperature of the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid reaching the fluid drive unit within a predetermined temperature range that is lower than the temperature of the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid after heating by the fluid drive unit.

[0017] A power generation system according to aspect 9 of the present invention is similar to aspect 8, in that the temperature stabilizing unit may be provided in at least one of the lower storage unit and the flow path between the lower storage unit and the fluid driving unit.

[0018] A power generating system according to a tenth aspect of the present invention is the power generating system of the eighth or ninth aspect, wherein the temperature stabilizing unit may utilize geothermal heat. [Effects of the Invention]

[0019] According to one aspect of the present invention, a power generation system that can extract larger electric power using a temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid can be realized. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1]1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a power generation system according to a first embodiment together with an installation environment. [Figure 2] 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a fluid driving unit of the power generation system shown in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 3] 3 is a diagram showing a magnetic field distribution in the flow path direction of a pumping flow path in the fluid driver shown in FIG. 2. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a power generation system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a power generation system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a schematic view showing a fluid driving section in a power generation system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a schematic view showing a fluid driving section in a power generation system according to a fifth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] [First embodiment] An embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below. Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a power generation system 100 according to the first embodiment, together with the installation environment. As shown in Fig. 1, the power generation system 100 is installed in a facility 200, such as a factory or a plant, and is disposed within a building 201.

[0022] In the following explanation, the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid is likened to water, and raising the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid to a high position is referred to as "pumping," forcefully releasing the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid from a high position is referred to as "discharge," and the liquid level of the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid is referred to as "water level."

[0023] As shown in Figure 1, the power generation system 100 includes a fluid flow path (flow path) 10, a portion of which is open to the atmosphere, through which a temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G circulates, and an upper storage section 20, a lower storage section 30, a power generation section 40, a fluid drive section 50, an opening / closing section 70, and a temperature stabilization section 60, which are arranged (interposed) at required positions in the fluid flow path 10.

[0024] (temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid) The temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G is a fluid that circulates within the fluid flow path 10. When a magnetic field and a temperature difference are applied, the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G is driven by the difference in magnetic volume force, and moves and is pumped within the fluid flow path 10. The temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G makes it possible to convert given thermal energy into potential energy. The temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G has a relatively large magnetization in the low temperature or room temperature range, and the magnetization decreases as the temperature rises toward the Curie temperature.

[0025] The temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G can be made of magnetic particles as the dispersoid, water or oil (kerosene, etc.) as the dispersion medium (mother liquor), and a surfactant. The temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G reacts to magnetic fields at low and normal temperatures, but becomes unresponsive to magnetic fields at high temperatures. Even if the temperature of the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G rises to a high temperature, it will once again react to magnetic fields if it is cooled down as long as it is below the Curie temperature.

[0026] Examples of magnetic fine particles that can be used include iron oxide fine particle spinel ferrite (MFe2O4: M=Fe, Mn, Ni, MnZn), γ-hematite (γ-Fe2O3), etc. Examples of dispersion media that can be used include water, hydrocarbon oils (kerosene, alkylnaphthalene, etc.), and fluorine-based oils (purple fluoropolyether, etc.).

[0027] An example of the water-based temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G using water as a dispersion medium is TC3030W manufactured by Ferrotec Holdings Corporation.

[0028] An example of an oil-based temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G that uses oil as a dispersion medium is TS-50K manufactured by Ichinen Chemicals Co., Ltd. However, the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G is not limited to these examples.

[0029] (fluid flow path) The fluid flow path 10 has a water discharge flow path 11 and a water pumping flow path 12, and circulates the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G in the circulation direction indicated by arrow Y in Figure 1. The water discharge flow path 11 connects the bottom of the upper storage section 20 to the lower storage section 30. The temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G in the upper storage section 20 falls (flows down) through the water discharge flow path 11.

[0030] The water discharge flow path 11 is provided with an opening / closing unit 70 that controls the fall of the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G from the upper storage portion 20. In Fig. 1, a valve that opens and closes the flow path is shown as an example of the opening / closing unit 70, but the opening / closing unit 70 is not limited to a valve and may be, for example, an opening / closing door. In short, any configuration that can control the fall of the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G falling from the upper storage portion 20 will suffice.

[0031] The pumping flow path 12 connects the bottom of the lower storage section 30 to the upper storage section 20. The temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G in the lower storage section 30 is sent to the upper storage section 20 through the pumping flow path 12 and is pumped. In this embodiment, the bottom of the lower storage section 30 connects to the upper storage section 20, but the connection position is not limited to the bottom, and the connection may also be with the side of the lower storage section 30 or, in a suction type, with the top of the lower storage section 30.

[0032] A portion of the fluid flow path 10 is open to the atmosphere between the pumping flow path 12 and the upper reservoir 20. While Fig. 1 shows an example in which the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G is poured from the pumping flow path 12 from above the upper reservoir 20, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the pumping flow path 12 may be connected to the upper reservoir 20, and an opening communicating with the outside may be provided at the top of the upper reservoir 20, thereby opening the fluid flow path 10 to the atmosphere.

[0033] In this way, the fluid flow path 10 circulates the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G from the lower storage section 30 to the upper storage section 20, and from the upper storage section 20 to the lower storage section 30 via the power generation section 40, and a portion of the fluid flow path 10 is open to the atmosphere.

[0034] In the case of a sealed or closed fluid flow path, it is not possible to store and extract potential energy by storing and discharging it, but by making a system in which part of the flow path is open to the atmosphere, as in fluid flow path 10, it becomes possible to store and extract potential energy.

[0035] The fluid flow path 10 is composed of, for example, piping, and in this case, the piping portion in the pumping flow path 12 that is heated by a heating unit 52 (described later) of the fluid driving unit 50 is preferably made of a non-magnetic metal such as copper, which has excellent thermal conductivity. The non-heated portion may be made of a resin such as a fluororesin, which has low thermal conductivity.

[0036] (Upper reservoir, lower reservoir) The upper reservoir 20 stores the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G transported from the lower reservoir 30 through the pumping flow path 12. The upper reservoir 20 stores the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G transported to a high position, thereby enabling the accumulation of potential energy.

[0037] When the opening / closing section 70 is opened, the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G in the upper reservoir section 20 falls through the water discharge flow path 11, and when the opening / closing section 70 is closed, the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G stops falling.

[0038] Here, the opening / closing unit 70 may be configured to have an adjustable opening / closing amount. This allows the amount of temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G falling per unit time to be adjusted by adjusting the opening / closing amount, and ultimately the amount of power generated by the power generation unit 40. In other words, by controlling the discharge of water from the upper reservoir 20, the amount and timing of potential energy extraction can be controlled, allowing stable power generation in the power generation system 100.

[0039] The lower reservoir 30 collects and stores the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G that falls from the upper reservoir 20 and flows down from the power generation unit 40. The capacity of the lower reservoir 30 is set to be larger than the capacity of the upper reservoir 20, and is set to a capacity that can store the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G even when the upper reservoir 20 is empty. In this embodiment, the lower reservoir 30 is placed on the ground 202.

[0040] (Power Generation Department) The power generating unit 40 is disposed in the water discharge flow path 11 and converts the potential energy of the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G falling down the water discharge flow path 11 into electrical energy. In other words, the power generating unit 40 generates electricity using the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G falling from the upper reservoir 20. To this end, although not shown, the power generating unit 40 includes, for example, a turbine such as a water wheel that is rotated by the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G falling down the water discharge flow path 11, and a generator that is rotated by the turbine. By rotating the turbine of the power generating unit 40 using the potential energy of the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G, the potential energy can be extracted as electrical energy.

[0041] Here, the greater the vertical distance between the upper reservoir 20 and the power generation unit 40, the greater the potential energy that can be extracted. For this reason, the power generation unit 40 is disposed near the upper portion (upper surface) of the lower reservoir 30. Furthermore, the greater the flow rate of the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G that falls from the upper reservoir 20 to the power generation unit 40, the greater the potential energy extracted by the power generation unit 40.

[0042] Here, an example has been described in which the power generation unit 40 is disposed in the water discharge flow path 11, but if the water discharge flow path 11 is a pipe whose upper end is connected to the upper storage unit 20, the lower end of the pipe may be open toward the turbine of the power generation unit 40. In this case, the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G that has rotated the turbine may fall directly into the lower storage unit 30, or may be introduced into the lower storage unit 30 via a separate pipe.

[0043] (Fluid drive unit) The fluid driver 50 is disposed between the lower reservoir 30 and the upper reservoir 20 in the fluid flow path 10, and applies a magnetic field to the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G in the fluid flow path 10 and heats the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G to drive it in a circulating direction. Specifically, the fluid driver 50 is a magnetic fluid pump, and is disposed in the pumping flow path 12. By applying a magnetic field to the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G in the pumping flow path 12 and heating it, the fluid driver 50 converts thermal energy into kinetic energy to drive the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G. To this end, the fluid driver 50 includes a magnetic field application unit 51 that applies a magnetic field to the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G, and a heating unit 52 that heats the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G.

[0044] Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the fluid drive unit 50 of the power generation system 100 shown in Fig. 1. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing the magnetic field distribution in the circulation direction Y in the pumping flow path 12 in the fluid drive unit 50 shown in Fig. 2. In Fig. 3, the horizontal axis represents the position in the circulation direction Y in the fluid drive unit 50, and the vertical axis represents the magnetic field applied in the fluid drive unit 50.

[0045] As shown in Figure 2, the fluid driving unit 50 includes a pair of magnetic field application units 51 that apply a magnetic field to the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G in the pumping flow path 12, and a heating unit 52 that heats the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G in the pumping flow path 12.

[0046] <Magnetic field application unit> The magnetic field application unit 51 applies a magnetic field to the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G in the fluid drive unit 50, which is a magnetic fluid pump, thereby causing a magnetic volume force to act locally on the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G. As shown in Fig. 2, the magnetic field application unit 51 includes a permanent magnet 511 and a yoke 512, and the permanent magnet 511 and the yoke 512 are in close contact with each other. Two permanent magnets 511, each with an easy axis of magnetization perpendicular to the circulation direction Y of the pumping flow path 12, are arranged relative to the yoke 512 so that their magnetic pole faces facing the pumping flow path 12 are different from each other.

[0047] The pair of magnetic field application units 51 are disposed opposite each other across the pumping flow path 12, and the four permanent magnets 511 facing each other across the pumping flow path 12 are arranged so that the magnetic pole faces of the opposing magnets are the same. The space between the two permanent magnets 511 aligned in the circulation direction Y, indicated by the dashed dotted line X, is the center position of the fluid drive unit 50 in the circulation direction Y.

[0048] By arranging the pair of magnetic field application units 51 in this manner, an axially symmetrical magnetic field, for example a Mexican hat type (a type having a positive peak and negative depressions on both sides near the peak), is generated with the center of the magnetic field application unit 51 indicated by the dashed dotted line X as the axis, as shown in Fig. 3. The centers of the negative depressions on both sides of the Mexican hat type correspond to the outer ends of the two permanent magnets 511 aligned in the circulation direction Y.

[0049] As the permanent magnet 511, for example, a neodymium magnet, a samarium-cobalt magnet, a ferrite magnet, or the like can be used. A neodymium magnet is preferable because it has the strongest magnetic force and can generate a strong magnetic field. By using a neodymium magnet, no power is required to apply the magnetic field. The permanent magnet 511 may have any shape, but a rectangular column, a circular cylinder, or an elliptical cylinder can be used. A hollow cylinder that surrounds the piping that forms the pumping flow path 12 can also be used. An electromagnet can also be used if it consumes low power.

[0050] The peak magnetic flux intensity shown in Figure 3 is improved by bringing the pair of magnetic field application units 51 closer together and reducing the distance between the permanent magnets 511 they possess, but when the permanent magnets 511 become hot due to the heat from the heating unit 52, the magnetic flux density decreases and the magnetic field strength also decreases.

[0051] 2, it is preferable to arrange the pair of magnetic field application units 51 at a distance such that an air layer C of several millimeters is formed between the permanent magnet 511 and the heating unit 52. This allows the air layer C to function as a heat insulator, and makes it possible to suppress a decrease in magnetic field strength due to the permanent magnet 511 becoming hot.

[0052] Although the air layer C has been exemplified as a measure to prevent the permanent magnet 511 from becoming too hot, a heat insulating material or the like may be placed between the permanent magnet 511 and the heating unit 52. The heat insulating material selected should not affect the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet 511 (or may have only a slight effect). The point is that a heat insulating unit should be provided between the magnetic field application unit 51 (permanent magnet 511) and the heating unit 52.

[0053] Furthermore, instead of using a heat insulating section, a configuration may be adopted in which the permanent magnet 511 is cooled in some way. Furthermore, even if the permanent magnet 511 is heated by the heating section 52, if the heating temperature is low enough that a decrease in magnetic field strength does not become a problem, there is no need to provide a heat insulating section or a configuration for cooling.

[0054] <Heating section> The heating unit 52 heats the downstream side of the magnetic field application unit 51 in the fluid drive unit 50, which is a magnetic fluid pump, thereby reducing the saturation magnetization of the thermosensitive magnetic fluid G and creating a non-equilibrium state of the magnetic volume force, thereby applying a driving pressure in the pumping direction to the thermosensitive magnetic fluid G. The heating unit 52 heats the thermosensitive magnetic fluid G in the fluid flow path 10 downstream of the magnetic field application unit 51 in the circulation direction Y.

[0055] The heating unit 52 is disposed downstream of the magnetic field application unit 51 in the circulation direction Y. More specifically, the heating unit 52 is disposed so as to partially overlap with the permanent magnet 511 downstream in the circulation direction Y of two permanent magnets 511 aligned along the circulation direction Y in the magnetic field application unit 51, and to extend beyond the downstream permanent magnet 511. As shown in Fig. 3, the heating unit 52 heats the area downstream of the peak of the Mexican hat-shaped magnetic field in the circulation direction Y, passing over the negative depression.

[0056] The heating unit 52 may have any form as long as it can heat the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G. For example, the heating unit 52 may be a heating element such as a planar heater that is wrapped around the pumping flow path 12. Alternatively, the heating unit 52 may be configured to utilize exhaust heat (waste heat) generated in the equipment 200. By utilizing the exhaust heat, no electricity is required for heating. Furthermore, utilizing the exhaust heat can lower the ambient temperature in the equipment 200, which is expected to have the effect of reducing the physical strain on workers in high-temperature environments.

[0057] In this embodiment, the fluid drive unit 50 is disposed above the ground 202 in the same manner as the lower reservoir 30 .

[0058] <Operation of fluid drive unit> The fluid driving unit 50 applies a magnetic field to the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G in the pumping flow path 12 using the magnetic field application unit 51 and heats it using the heating unit 52, creating a temperature difference. Heating reduces the magnetization of the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G, causing an imbalance in the magnetic volume forces acting on the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G, generating a driving force. This driving force causes the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G in the pumping flow path 12 to move in the circulation direction Y, be pumped, and be stored in the upper storage unit 20.

[0059] The thermosensitive magnetic fluid G can be either water-based or oil-based, but by using an oil-based thermosensitive magnetic fluid, the heating range can be set to 100°C or above and the cooling range to below freezing point. This expands the temperature range that can be applied by the heating unit 52 to create a difference in magnetic volume force, and the strength of the magnetic field (magnetic field intensity) applied by the magnetic field application unit 51 that is required to drive the thermosensitive magnetic fluid G can be reduced.

[0060] Incidentally, in order for the fluid driving unit 50 to generate an imbalance in magnetic volume forces in the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G in the pumping flow path 12 and drive it, it is necessary to satisfy at least the following condition (1). Condition (1) At the start of operation, the downstream end of the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G in the pumping flow path 12 in the circulation direction Y is located downstream of the upstream end of the heating section 52 in the circulation direction Y. In other words, the downstream end of the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G in the pumping flow path 12 in the circulation direction Y is the tip of the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G that leaves the lower storage section 30 and moves within the pumping flow path 12.

[0061] That is, in order for the fluid driving unit 50 to drive the thermosensitive magnetic fluid G in the pumping flow path 12, the leading end of the thermosensitive magnetic fluid G in the pumping flow path 12 must exceed the upstream end in the circulation direction Y of the overlapping region where the magnetic field application unit 51 and the heating unit 52 overlap. This causes an imbalance in the magnetic volume force in the thermosensitive magnetic fluid G, and a driving force can be applied to the thermosensitive magnetic fluid G.

[0062] Here, it is more preferable that the following condition (2) be satisfied. Condition (2) When operation starts, the tip of the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G in the pumping flow path 12 reaches the downstream end of the magnetic field application unit 51 in the circulation direction Y. The downstream end of the magnetic field application unit 51 in the circulation direction Y is, more specifically, the downstream end of the permanent magnet 511 arranged downstream in the circulation direction Y.

[0063] In other words, by having the tip of the thermosensitive magnetic fluid G in the pumping flow path 12 reach the downstream end of the overlapping region in the circulation direction Y, an imbalance in magnetic volume force can be generated in the thermosensitive magnetic fluid G throughout the overlapping region. This allows a greater driving force to be applied to the thermosensitive magnetic fluid G.

[0064] The position of the tip of the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G in the pumping flow path 12 that satisfies the above condition (1) or (2) can be set, for example, by arranging the magnetic field application unit 51 and the lower storage unit 30 so that they satisfy a predetermined relationship. In this embodiment, the magnetic field application unit 51 and the lower storage unit 30 are arranged as follows so as to satisfy the above condition (2).

[0065] As shown in Figure 1, the magnetic field application unit 51 and the lower storage unit 30 are configured so that, when operation begins, the downstream end of the permanent magnet 511 located downstream in the circulation direction Y (the downstream end of the magnetic field application unit 51 in the circulation direction Y) is positioned below the liquid level E in the lower storage unit 30.

[0066] When the fluid drive unit 50 is arranged in the vertically upward portion of the pumping flow path 12, the upper end of the permanent magnet 511 provided in the fluid drive unit 50 corresponds to the downstream end of the permanent magnet 511 arranged downstream in the circulation direction Y.

[0067] Furthermore, for example, as shown in Fig. 4, the fluid drive unit 50 may be disposed at a position lower than the bottom of the lower reservoir 30. Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a power generation system 100A of the second embodiment. The power generation system 100A of the second embodiment differs from the power generation system 100 of the first embodiment in the position where the fluid drive unit 50 is disposed.

[0068] By arranging the fluid drive unit 50 at a position lower than the bottom of the lower reservoir 30, the above condition (2) is always satisfied when the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G is stored in the lower reservoir 30. In this case, the fluid drive unit 50 may be buried underground, as shown in FIG.

[0069] 5, an auxiliary pump P may be provided in the pumping flow path 12 to adjust the position of the tip of the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G in the pumping flow path 12 so as to satisfy the above condition (1) or (2). FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a power generation system 100B of the third embodiment. The power generation system 100B of the third embodiment differs from the power generation system 100 of the first embodiment in the position of the lower reservoir 30 and in the inclusion of an auxiliary pump P.

[0070] The auxiliary pump P is used to adjust the position of the tip of the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G in the pumping flow path 12. Since the auxiliary pump P is used only when the fluid drive unit 50 starts operating (when driving starts), the energy loss due to use of the auxiliary pump P is small.

[0071] By providing the auxiliary pump P, it becomes unnecessary to provide the magnetic field application unit 51 and the lower storage unit 30 so that a predetermined relationship is satisfied in accordance with the above condition (1) or (2), and it becomes possible to bury the lower storage unit 30 underground. Note that, although the auxiliary pump P is provided upstream of the fluid drive unit 50 in the circulation direction Y in the example of Fig. 5, it may also be provided downstream.

[0072] (Temperature stabilization part) The temperature stabilizing section 60 improves the performance of converting thermal energy into kinetic energy in the fluid driving section 50. However, the temperature stabilizing section 60 is not necessarily required in the power generation system 100.

[0073] The temperature stabilizing unit 60 stabilizes the temperature of the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G that reaches the fluid drive unit 50 within a predetermined temperature range that is lower than the temperature of the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G after heating by the fluid drive unit 50. In other words, the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G upstream of the heating unit 52 of the fluid drive unit 50 in the circulation direction Y is maintained at a relatively low, constant temperature. The temperature stabilized by the temperature stabilizing unit 60 is, for example, a certain temperature within the temperature range of 15°C to 20°C. This ensures a stable temperature difference in the fluid drive unit 50 and improves the drive pressure.

[0074] The temperature stabilizing unit 60 may be provided in the lower reservoir 30 or at least in a portion of the pumping flow path 12 between the lower reservoir 30 and the fluid driving unit 50 .

[0075] In the power generation system 100 (100A, 100B), the pumping flow path 12 upstream of the heating section 52 of the fluid drive section 50 in the circulation direction Y is buried underground to realize the temperature stabilizing section 60. The temperature underground is kept relatively stable and low, so it can be used as the temperature stabilizing section 60. By using natural energy such as geothermal heat to configure the temperature stabilizing section 60 in this way, no electricity is required for cooling.

[0076] (Power generation system operation) Next, the operation of the power generation system 100 will be described with reference to Figure 1. First, the fluid drive unit 50 is started to move the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G in the lower reservoir 30 to the upper reservoir 20 via the pumping flow path 12 (pumping process). The fluid drive unit 50 is driven until the upper reservoir 20 is filled with water, and when full, the fluid drive unit 50 is stopped. As a result, the thermal energy provided by the heating unit 52 is converted into potential energy and stored as potential energy. The fluid drive unit 50 may be controlled based on the water level in the upper reservoir 20 so that the upper reservoir 20 is always kept full with water.

[0077] When electricity is required in the facility 200, the opening / closing unit 70 provided in the water discharge flow path 11 is opened, causing the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G in the upper storage unit 20 to fall through the water discharge flow path 11 (water discharge process). The power generation unit 40 generates electricity from the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G falling through the water discharge flow path 11. As a result, the accumulated potential energy is converted into kinetic energy and then into electrical energy, which is then extracted.

[0078] Here, by suddenly opening the opening / closing section 70 and causing the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G in the upper reservoir 20 to fall in one go, the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G can vigorously rotate the turbine (not shown) of the power generation section 40. This allows a large amount of potential energy to be extracted, and a large amount of electricity to be obtained.

[0079] When the amount of power required is small, the opening and closing amount of the opening and closing unit 70 is adjusted to adjust the momentum of the falling temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G. This reduces the amount of potential energy extracted, making it possible to adjust the amount of power generation. Furthermore, when power is no longer needed, the opening and closing unit 70 is closed. This stops power generation by the power generation unit 40.

[0080] The temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G from which potential energy has been extracted in the power generating section 40 is collected in the lower reservoir 30, and when the fluid driving section 50 is activated, it is sent again to the upper reservoir 20 via the pumping flow path 12.

[0081] (effect) In the power generation system described above, the fluid flow path 10 is open to the atmosphere, so potential energy can be extracted by pumping and dropping the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G rather than simply circulating it through the flow path.

[0082] Furthermore, by storing the pumped temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G in the upper reservoir 20 and then releasing and dropping it all at once, it is possible to extract a large amount of potential energy and obtain a large amount of power.

[0083] Moreover, since the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid is stored in the upper reservoir 20 and preserved as potential energy, no energy loss occurs unless the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid in the upper reservoir 20 volatilizes.

[0084] Furthermore, as mentioned above, by suddenly releasing and dropping the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G stored in the upper reservoir 20, a large amount of electrical energy can be extracted instantaneously. Therefore, it is possible to supply a large amount of electrical energy that is not possible with a storage battery.

[0085] Other Embodiments Other embodiments of the present invention will be described below. For ease of explanation, the same reference numerals will be used to designate components having the same functions as those described in the above embodiment, and the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0086] In the above-described power generation systems 100, 100A, and 100B, the fluid drive unit 50 is configured to have one set SE consisting of a pair of magnetic field application units 51 and one heating unit 52, but it may also be configured to have multiple sets SE, as shown in Figures 6 and 7.

[0087] Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram showing the fluid drive unit 50C in a power generation system 100C of a fourth embodiment. Fig. 7 is a schematic diagram showing the fluid drive unit 50D in a power generation system 100D of a fifth embodiment. Note that although Figs. 6 and 7 omit illustration of parts other than the fluid drive unit 50C and the fluid drive unit 50D, the parts other than the fluid drive unit 50C and the fluid drive unit 50D have the same configuration as the power generation systems 100, 100A, and 100B described above.

[0088] As shown in Fig. 6, in the power generation system 100C of the fourth embodiment, a plurality of sets SE (two sets in this example) are arranged in series with respect to the pumping flow path 12. When the sets SE are connected in series, the driving force for moving the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G is the sum of the driving forces of the sets SE. Therefore, with the above configuration, the head of the fluid drive unit 50C can be made higher than that of the fluid drive unit 50.

[0089] 7, in the power generation system 100D of the fifth embodiment, a plurality of sets SE (two sets in this example) are arranged in parallel with the pumped water flow path 12. Specifically, the pumped water flow path 12 is branched into a plurality of branched flow paths 121 (two branches in this example), and a set SE is arranged in each of the branched flow paths 121.

[0090] When the sets SE are connected in parallel, the flow rate of the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid G is the sum of the flow rates of each set SE. Therefore, with the above configuration, the flow rate of the fluid drive unit 50D can be improved compared to the fluid drive unit 50.

[0091] Although not shown, the sets SE may be arranged in series and in parallel with respect to the pumping flow path 12. This makes it possible to improve both the head and the flow rate compared to the fluid driving unit 50.

[0092] In the above embodiment, the power generation systems 100 to 100D installed in the facility 200 are exemplified, but they may be installed on a smaller scale than the facility 200.

[0093] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims. Embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the technical means disclosed in different embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0094] 10 Fluid flow path (flow path) 11 Water discharge channel 12 Pumping channel 20 Upper reservoir 30 Lower reservoir 40 Power Generation Department 50, 50C, 50D fluid drive unit 51 Magnetic field application unit 52 Heating section 60 Temperature stabilization section 70 Opening and Closing Section 100, 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D Power Generation Systems 121 Branched channel (branched channel) 200 equipment SE set (set)

Claims

1. an upper reservoir for storing a temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid; a power generation unit that generates electricity using the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid that falls from the upper reservoir; a lower reservoir that stores the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid flowing down from the power generation unit; a flow path, a part of which is open to the atmosphere, through which the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid circulates from the lower reservoir to the upper reservoir, and from the upper reservoir to the lower reservoir via the power generation unit; a fluid driving unit disposed in the flow path between the lower reservoir and the upper reservoir, which applies a magnetic field to the thermosensitive magnetic fluid in the flow path and heats the thermosensitive magnetic fluid to drive it in a circulating direction; an opening / closing unit that controls the dropping of the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid from the upper reservoir; a pump separate from the fluid driving unit for adjusting the position of the downstream end of the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid in the flow path in the circulation direction.

2. The fluid drive unit is a magnetic field applying unit that applies a magnetic field to the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid in the flow channel; a heating unit that heats the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid in the flow path downstream of the magnetic field application unit in the circulation direction, The power generation system according to claim 1 , further comprising a heat insulating section provided between the magnetic field applying section and the heating section.

3. The fluid drive unit is a magnetic field applying unit that applies a magnetic field to the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid in the flow channel; a heating unit that heats the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid in the flow path downstream of the magnetic field application unit in the circulation direction, The power generation system according to claim 1 , wherein the plurality of sets are arranged in series with respect to the flow path.

4. The fluid drive unit is a magnetic field applying unit that applies a magnetic field to the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid in the flow channel; a heating unit that heats the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid in the flow path downstream of the magnetic field applying unit in the circulation direction; a plurality of drive sets having The flow path is branched between the lower reservoir and the upper reservoir, The power generation system of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of drive sets are arranged in branched flow paths.

5. The power generation system according to claim 1, further comprising a temperature stabilization unit that stabilizes the temperature of the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid reaching the fluid drive unit within a predetermined temperature range that is lower than the temperature of the temperature-sensitive magnetic fluid after heating by the fluid drive unit.

6. The power generation system according to claim 5 , wherein the temperature stabilizing unit is provided in at least one of the lower reservoir and a portion of the flow path between the lower reservoir and the fluid driver.

7. The power generation system according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the temperature stabilizing unit is underground.

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