Power supply device and operation device

Abstract

[Problem] To provide a power supply device capable of supplying power without applying a current from outside. [Solution] A power supply device 40 comprises an ignition unit 41 which has an auto-ignition agent, and a power generation unit 43 which generates power using energy obtained by ignition of the auto-ignition agent.

Description

Power Supply and Actuation Device

[0001] The present invention relates to a power supply device and an operating device equipped with the power supply device.

[0002] Conventionally, devices for supplying electric power have been known. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a thermal battery including a heat generating agent obtained by mixing a metal powder and an oxidizer powder and then press-molding the mixed powder. In the thermal battery of Patent Document 1, electric power is amplified by passing electric power from an external source to the thermal battery, and a large amount of electric power is supplied from the thermal battery.

[0003] Patent No. 5309557

[0004] However, the thermal battery of Patent Document 1 cannot supply power to a target device or the like unless an external current is applied.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a power supply device that can supply power to a target device or the like without flowing current from the outside, and an operating device that includes this power supply device.

[0006] (1) The power supply device of the present invention is characterized by comprising an ignition unit having an auto-ignition agent, and a power generation unit that generates power using energy obtained by ignition of the auto-ignition agent.

[0007] (2) In the power supply device of (1) above, it is preferable that the ignition unit has a heat generating agent that burns and generates heat when the auto-ignition agent is ignited, or a gas generating agent that generates pressure, or a light emitting agent that emits light, and that the energy is obtained by emitting heat, pressure, or light when the auto-ignition agent is ignited.

[0008] (3) In the power supply device of (1) or (2) above, it is preferable that the energy is heat, and the power generation unit is a thermoelectric element that generates electricity by the Seebeck effect when a temperature difference occurs in the power generation unit upon receiving the energy.

[0009] (4) In the power supply device of (1) or (2) above, it is preferable that the energy is pressure, and the power generating unit is a piezoelectric element that receives the energy and generates power.

[0010] (5) In the power supply device of (1) or (2) above, it is preferable that the energy is light, and the power generating unit is a photoelectric element that receives the energy and generates power.

[0011] (6) The operating device of the present invention includes the power supply device of (1) or (2) above, and a pyrotechnic or fire alarm that is supplied with the power generated by the power generation unit and is activated by the power.

[0012] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a power supply device that can supply power to a target device or the like without flowing current from the outside, and an operating device that includes this power supply device.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a power supply device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a safety valve of the high-pressure tank of FIG. 2. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a vehicle to which the power supply device of FIG. 1 and the high-pressure tank of FIG. 2 are attached. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a power supply device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing a power supply device according to a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing a power supply device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an actuation device including a pyrotechnic device to which the power supply device of FIG. 1 is connected. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an actuation device including a fire alarm to which the power supply device of FIG. 1 is connected. FIG. 9 is a table showing specifications of assemblies No. 1 to No. 3. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing assembly No. 2, etc. FIG. 11 is a graph showing experimental results using assembly No. 1. FIG. 12 is a graph showing experimental results using assembly No. 2. FIG. 13 is a graph showing experimental results using assembly No. 3.

[0014] First Embodiment A power supply device, a high-pressure tank, a safety valve, and a vehicle according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4. FIG.

[0015] First, the power supply device 40 in this embodiment will be described.

[0016] The power supply device 40 is a device that supplies electric power. As shown in Fig. 1, the power supply device 40 includes an ignition unit 41, a metal unit 42, a power generation unit 43, wirings 44 and 45, and a filter circuit 46.

[0017] The ignition unit 41 is formed into a pellet shape, and is formed by mixing an auto-ignition agent with a heat generating agent so that it ignites when the temperature reaches a predetermined temperature (e.g., 200°C) or higher, or by molding the auto-ignition agent and the heat generating agent separately. Furthermore, the ignition unit 41 does not have to be formed into a pellet shape, and may be in any shape, such as powder, granules, a column, a sheet, a sphere, a single-hole cylinder, a multi-hole cylinder, or a tablet. Furthermore, the ignition unit 41 may be held in a container or the like. Hereinafter, the auto-ignition agent may be referred to as an AI agent.

[0018] The AI ​​agent has an auto-ignition (AI) function that automatically ignites in response to heat when the temperature reaches or exceeds a predetermined temperature.

[0019] For example, an explosive that ignites at a relatively low temperature is used as the AI ​​agent. Specifically, examples of AI agents that can be used include compositions consisting of 5-aminotetrazole / molybdenum trioxide as the main component, such as B / 5-aminotetrazole / potassium nitrate / molybdenum trioxide, 5-aminotetrazole / potassium nitrate / molybdenum trioxide, or 5-aminotetrazole / potassium nitrate / strontium nitrate / molybdenum trioxide; compositions consisting of 3-nitro-1,2,4-triazol-5-one / sodium nitrate; and smokeless gunpowder consisting primarily of nitrocellulose. Furthermore, for carbohydrate / oxohalogen acid salt compositions, sucrose, lactose, glucose, powdered cellulose, dextrin, charcoal, and the like can be used alone or in combination as the carbohydrate. Sucrose is preferred as it has an ignition temperature of 165 to 220°C. Examples of oxohalogen salts include chlorates and perchlorates such as potassium chlorate, potassium perchlorate, sodium chlorate, sodium perchlorate, barium chlorate, and barium perchlorate, as well as bromates and perbromates such as potassium bromate, potassium perbromate, sodium bromate, and sodium perbromate, and iodates and periodates such as potassium iodate, potassium periodate, sodium iodate, and sodium periodate, with chlorates and perchlorates being particularly preferred from the viewpoint of ease of handling, and potassium chlorate and potassium perchlorate being even more preferred.

[0020] For example, the AI ​​agent contains the following component (A) or (B):

[0021] (A) An AI agent formed by binding a fuel component, an oxidizer, and a combustion modifier with a binder. Here, an example of the fuel component is a nitrogen-containing organic substance consisting of aminotetrazole or its salt. An example of the oxidizer is one containing 50% by weight or more of nitrate. An example of the combustion modifier is molybdenum, iron, or oxides thereof. An example of the binder is one selected from the following groups (1), (2), and (3). (1) A hydrotalcite-type compound represented by the following general formula [M 2+ 1-x M 3+ x (OH) x+ [An- x / n ・mH2O x- Here, M 2+ : Mg 2+ , Mn 2+ , Fe 2+ , Co 2+ , Ni 2+ , Cu 2+ , Zn 2+ Divalent metals such as M 3+ :Al 3+ , Fe 3+ , Cr 3+ , Co 3+ , In 3+ Trivalent metals such as A n- :OH - , F - , Cl - ,Br - , NO3 - , CO3 2- , SO4 2- , Fe(CN)6 3- , CH3COO - , oxalate ion, salicylate ion, or other n-valent anion, x: 0<x≦0.33 (2) Acid clay (3) Polymer binder: The polymer binder improves the breaking strength and other mechanical properties when forming the explosive into the desired molded body. Specific examples of the polymer binder include metal salts of carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, cellulose acetate, cellulose propionate, cellulose acetate butyrate, nitrocellulose, guar gum, polyvinyl alcohol, polyacrylamide, polysaccharide derivatives such as starch, and organic binders such as stearates, fluororubbers, and SBS rubber. These polymer binders may be used alone or in combination.

[0022] (B) An AI agent containing the following components in various composition ratios: (a) 3 to 25 (wt%) of 5-aminotetrazole, (b) 5 to 30 (wt%) of boron, (c) 50 to 85 (wt%) of potassium nitrate, and (d) 0.2 to 10 (wt%) of molybdenum trioxide, and having a calorific value of 4,500 J / g or more.

[0023] The exothermic agent burns and generates heat when the AI ​​agent ignites. Specifically, when the AI ​​agent ignites, the exothermic agent is ignited and burns by the fire generated by the AI ​​agent, and generates high-temperature heat through combustion.

[0024] For example, the exothermic agent may be an explosive that generates a relatively high amount of heat when burned. Specifically, the exothermic agent may be an explosive whose main components are boron and potassium nitrate, or silicon, copper oxide, and potassium nitrate.

[0025] The metal portion 42 is in contact with the ignition portion 41 and is capable of heat transfer between the metal portion 42 and the ignition portion 41. In other words, when the metal portion 42 is hotter than the ignition portion 41, the heat of the metal portion 42 is transferred to the ignition portion 41. Furthermore, for example, when the ignition portion 41 is hotter than a portion of the metal portion 42 (for example, immediately after another portion of the metal portion 42 becomes hot and the ignition portion 41 ignites), the heat of the ignition portion 41 is transferred to that portion of the metal portion 42. The metal portion 42 has heat conductivity and is formed of, for example, copper or aluminum. Furthermore, the metal portion 42 is bonded to a first main surface of the ignition portion 41 opposite the power generation portion 43, a second main surface on the power generation portion 43 side, a first end surface connecting the first main surface and the second main surface, and a second end surface connecting the first main surface and the second main surface and opposite the first end surface. Examples of variations include the following. In other words, the metal part 42 and the ignition part 41 may be separated, or other components may be provided between the metal part 42 and the ignition part 41, as long as heat can be transferred between the metal part 42 and the ignition part 41.

[0026] The power generating unit 43 generates electricity using energy obtained by ignition of the AI ​​agent. In this embodiment, the energy is obtained when the AI ​​agent ignites, causing the heat generating agent to burn and generate heat. The power generating unit 43 generates electricity by receiving energy from the metal unit 42. The power generating unit 43 is in contact with and adhered to the metal unit 42. Note that the power generating unit 43 and the metal unit 42 may be separated from each other, or another member may be provided between the power generating unit 43 and the metal unit 42; it is sufficient that the power generating unit 43 can receive energy from the metal unit 42.

[0027] In this embodiment, the energy is heat, and the power generating unit 43 is a thermoelectric element that receives the energy and generates electricity. Specifically, the power generating unit 43 is a thermoelectric element (Seebeck element) that generates electricity by the Seebeck effect when a temperature difference occurs in the power generating unit 43 upon receiving the energy. For example, when the metal part 42 is heated, the heat from the metal part 42 is transferred to the ignition part 41, causing the AI ​​agent to ignite. The AI ​​agent ignites, causing the heat generating agent to burn and generate heat, and the heat generated by the heat generating agent is transferred to the metal part 42. The power generating unit 43 receives the heat generated by the heat generating agent from the metal part 42, and generates electricity by the Seebeck effect due to the temperature difference occurring between the metal part 42 side and the opposite side of the power generating unit 43. The Seebeck effect also occurs in a temperature gradient of a single metal.

[0028] In this way, power can be generated by the power generation unit 43 without flowing current from the outside to the power supply device 40, so an external power source is not required, and a wire harness or the like for connecting the external power source to the power supply device 40 is also not required, so power can be generated with a simpler configuration.

[0029] Furthermore, a larger amount of power can be generated by increasing the temperature on the metal portion 42 side of the power generating unit 43 or by connecting multiple power generating units 43 in series. In this embodiment, the heat generating agent can increase the temperature on the metal portion 42 side of the power generating unit 43, so a larger amount of power can be generated without increasing the size of the power generating unit 43.

[0030] Furthermore, since the power generation unit 43 and the device (for example, the high-pressure tank 100 described below) that receives power from the power generation unit 43 can be located at separate locations, the ignition unit 41 can receive heat from an external flame at a location separate from the device, causing the power generation unit 43 to generate electricity. Therefore, the device can be operated by power supplied from the power generation unit 43 without being exposed to an external flame. Furthermore, by selecting an AI agent according to the desired temperature at which ignition is desired, the external temperature at which the power generation unit 43 generates electricity to operate the device can be determined.

[0031] The wiring 44 is a positive wiring and is connected to the power generation unit 43. The wiring 45 is a negative wiring and is connected to the power generation unit 43. The power generated by the power generation unit 43 is supplied to the outside via the wirings 44 and 45.

[0032] The filter circuit 46 blocks current below a certain value. For example, the filter circuit 46 is configured using a transistor protection circuit, a diode, etc. This prevents the power generated by the power generation unit 43 from being supplied in unintended circumstances, and prevents malfunction of devices that operate using that power.

[0033] Next, the high-pressure tank 100 and the safety valve 30 in this embodiment will be described.

[0034] 2 and 3, the high-pressure tank 100 has a tank body 10 with a space 10a for filling and storing high-pressure gas (e.g., hydrogen gas) therein, an opening 11 provided at one end (the lower end in FIG. 2) of the tank body 10, and an opening 12 provided at the other end (the upper end in FIG. 2) of the tank body 10. The high-pressure tank 100 may also contain other types of compressed gas or liquefied gas.

[0035] A nozzle member (not shown) is provided at the opening 11, and a valve (tank valve) 20 is attached to this nozzle member. The valve 20 is provided with a supply port 21 for supplying gas. This supply port 21 is connected to a pipe (not shown) that leads to an engine powered by hydrogen, such as a fuel cell or a hydrogen engine, and under normal circumstances (when no abnormally high temperature due to a fire has occurred), the gas in the space 10a of the tank body 10 is supplied to the engine powered by hydrogen via the valve 20, supply port 21, and pipe.

[0036] The opening 12 has a female thread (not shown) cut therein, and the safety valve 30 is attached by screwing into a male thread (not shown) provided on a part of the outer periphery of the safety valve 30 on the tank body 10 side (male thread portion 31A on the tank body 10 side of the outer periphery of the main body portion 31 described later).

[0037] The safety valve 30 has a main body 31 and an igniter 34 (an example of an opening means that is provided downstream of the openable portion 32 in the gas flow direction in a flow path described below, with the tank main body 10 side being the upstream side, and that opens the openable portion 32 using energy obtained by driving (activation) as a driving source). The main body 31 has a male threaded portion 31A where a male thread is cut, an internal space 31B in which the igniter 34 is provided, a hole 31C that communicates with the space 10a of the tank main body 10, the openable portion 32 at the bottom of the hole 31C that opens (a hole is formed by melting, splitting, breaking, or the like) when the igniter 34 is ignited, and an outlet 33 that communicates with the external environment and discharges gas when activated.

[0038] Here, when the space 10a of the tank body 10 is filled with hydrogen gas, it is preferable to use a material for the body portion 31 that has been designed to prevent hydrogen embrittlement, such as SUS316, SUS316L, etc.

[0039] Furthermore, the openable portion 32 may have a weakened portion such as a notch formed at a location where the flame from the igniter 34 hits. This makes it easier to rupture, and reduces the amount of debris that scatters. The openable portion 32 may be formed to a thickness that is sufficient to prevent deformation due to the gas pressure inside the tank under normal conditions, and yet sufficient to rupture when the igniter 34 is activated. Although the openable portion 32 is integrally formed with the main body 31, this is not limiting. A through hole may be provided, and a rupture disk may be provided to close the through hole, and the rupture disk may be ruptured by activation of the igniter 34.

[0040] The size of the total opening area varies depending on the critical constant (σ), gas constant (R), temperature (T), pressure inside the tank (P), gas volume inside the tank (V), and gas discharge time (t). The general formula is as follows:

[0041] However, technically, the capacity of the tank that can be stored is limited, and it is difficult to manufacture a small total opening area from a processing technology perspective. Also, if the total opening area is small, there is a risk that the outlet will be clogged with foreign matter, etc., and the effect of discharging the gas will not be achieved. Furthermore, if the total opening area is made larger than a certain level, the gas discharge speed will increase and the high concentration gas will mix with oxygen in the air, which may increase the risk of ignition and detonation. Taking all of these factors into consideration, in order to discharge the gas at an appropriate speed, the total opening area of ​​the outlet 33 is set to 0.008 to 5.5 (mm ２ ), and 0.08 to 3.2 (mm ２ ) is more preferable.

[0042] It is also preferable that the outlet 33 be provided facing the ground, or that additional piping be attached so that the gas can be discharged to the ground. This allows only an amount that will have a minor impact (an amount that is unlikely to cause damage to people or equipment) even if the hydrogen gas ignites to be discharged from the outlet 33, and also allows the hydrogen gas to be discharged relatively smoothly, so that even if an abnormally high temperature occurs due to a fire, it is possible to prevent the tank body 10 from bursting and to minimize the impact of the discharged hydrogen gas igniting.

[0043] A fixing member 36 is fixed to the external environment side (upper side in FIG. 3) of the internal space 31B, and fixes and holds the igniter 34.

[0044] The igniter 34 is used to generate a flame and includes an ignition portion (not shown) and a pair of terminal pins 35. The ignition portion contains an ignition charge that ignites and burns to generate a flame when activated, and a resistor for igniting the ignition charge.

[0045] More specifically, the ignition unit includes a squib cup formed in a cup shape, and a plug that closes the open end of the squib cup and through which a pair of terminal pins 35 are inserted and held, a resistor (bridge wire) is attached so as to connect the tips of the pair of terminal pins 35 inserted into the squib cup, and an ignition charge is loaded into the squib cup so as to surround or be close to the resistor. If necessary, an ignition charge and / or an AI agent can be loaded into the squib cup in addition to the ignition charge.

[0046] Here, nichrome wire or the like is generally used as the resistor, and ZPP (zirconium potassium perchlorate), ZWPP (zirconium tungsten potassium perchlorate), ignition charge (basic copper nitrate, zirconium) lead tricinate, etc. are generally used as the ignition charge. ３ , B / NaNO ３ , Sr(NO ３ ) ２ Examples of AI agents that can be used include compositions consisting of metal powder / oxidizer, such as those listed above, thermite compositions, compositions consisting of titanium hydride / potassium perchlorate, and compositions consisting of titanium / potassium perchlorate. Examples of AI agents that can be used include compositions consisting of B / 5-aminotetrazole / potassium nitrate / molybdenum trioxide, 5-aminotetrazole / potassium nitrate / molybdenum trioxide, 5-aminotetrazole / potassium nitrate / molybdenum trioxide, and 5-aminotetrazole / potassium nitrate / strontium nitrate / molybdenum trioxide, compositions consisting of 3-nitro-1,2,4-triazol-5-one / sodium nitrate, and smokeless powders consisting mainly of nitrocellulose. The squib cups and plugs described above are generally made of metal or plastic.

[0047] The pair of terminal pins 35 are connected to an ignition unit to ignite the ignition charge, and are also connected to the power generator 43 (see FIG. 1 ) via wires 44 and 45. As described above, the power generator 43 generates electricity by igniting when the AI ​​agent in the ignition unit 41 reaches a predetermined temperature or higher, and passes a predetermined amount of current through the pair of terminal pins 35 via wires 44 and 45. That is, when a predetermined amount of current flows through the resistor, Joule heat is generated in the resistor, and the ignition charge begins to burn. The high-temperature flame generated by the combustion ruptures the squib cup containing the ignition charge. The time from when current flows through the resistor to when the igniter 34 is activated is generally 2 ms or less when nichrome wire is used for the resistor.

[0048] Next, the operation of the safety valve 30 in the high-pressure tank 100 in this embodiment will be described.

[0049] 2 and 3 , when ignition unit 41 is exposed to an abnormally high temperature equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature, current flows from power generation unit 43 to igniter 34, which is a drive source, via wiring 44 and 45, activating igniter 34. A flame generated by activation of igniter 34 opens openable portion 32 (forming a hole by melting, splitting, breaking, or the like), and internal space 31B and hole 31C communicate with each other. By establishing communication between internal space 31B and hole 31C, the gas filled in space 10a of tank body 10 is discharged to the external environment via a flow path formed by hole 31C, internal space 31B, and outlet 33.

[0050] The safety valve 30 having the above-described configuration can discharge a predetermined amount of gas from the beginning of operation (for example, an amount that will have only a minor effect even if ignition occurs).

[0051] In particular, when used in a high-pressure tank 100 filled with hydrogen gas, by making the diameter of the outlet 33 0.001 mm to 0.2 mm, and more preferably 0.01 mm to 0.1 mm, it is possible to discharge an amount of hydrogen gas from the outlet 33 that will have only a minor impact even if the hydrogen gas ignites, and since the hydrogen gas can be discharged relatively smoothly, it is possible to prevent the tank body 10 from bursting even if an abnormally high temperature occurs due to a fire, and to minimize the impact of the discharged hydrogen gas igniting.

[0052] Next, the vehicle 1000 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0053] As shown in Fig. 4, the vehicle 1000 includes a vehicle body 1001 and a high-pressure tank 100 attached to the center of the lower part of the vehicle body 1001. As described above, the high-pressure tank 100 has a safety valve 30, which is connected to the power generation unit 43 via wiring 44, 45. The power generation unit 43 and the like are attached to the front part of the lower part of the vehicle body 1001 (for example, near the engine, motor, and / or battery). For example, the vehicle 1000 is a fuel cell vehicle.

[0054] Next, the operation of the safety valve 30 in the vehicle 1000 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0055] 2 to 4, if an abnormality occurs in vehicle 1000 and ignition unit 41 is exposed to an abnormally high temperature equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature, the AI ​​agent ignites, causing a temperature difference in power generation unit 43, and the Seebeck effect causes a current to flow from power generation unit 43 to igniter 34 via wiring 44 and 45, activating igniter 34. The flame generated by activation of igniter 34 opens openable portion 32 (forming a hole by melting, splitting, breaking, or the like), and the gas filled in the tank body is discharged to the external environment via the flow path formed by internal space 31B and outlet 33.

[0056] The above configuration does not require an external power source, which allows for a reduction in the weight of vehicle 1000. Furthermore, even when vehicle 1000 is stopped, for example, and no current is supplied to the control or sensor, it is possible to detect a fire (detect an abnormality) and operate safely.

[0057] In this way, for example, power supply device 40 is installed at a location in vehicle 1000 that becomes hot in the event of an abnormality. Note that a plurality of power supply devices 40 may be installed in vehicle body 1001.

[0058] As described above, the power supply device 40 in the first embodiment of the present invention includes an ignition unit 41 having an auto-ignition agent, and a power generation unit 43 that generates power using energy obtained by ignition of the auto-ignition agent.

[0059] According to this, when the temperature reaches or exceeds a predetermined temperature, power is generated using the energy obtained by ignition of the auto-ignition agent without the need for an external current. Therefore, power can be supplied without the need for an external current.

[0060] Furthermore, in the power supply device 40 according to the first embodiment of the present invention, the ignition unit 41 has a heat generating agent that burns and generates heat when the auto-ignition agent is ignited, and energy is obtained by the heat generated by the ignition of the auto-ignition agent.

[0061] This allows energy to be easily obtained from the heat generating agent, and therefore power can be easily supplied without applying an external current.

[0062] The power supply device 40 according to the first embodiment of the present invention also includes a metal part 42 that is capable of transferring heat between the ignition part 41 and the metal part 42 .

[0063] This allows heat to be easily transferred to the ignition part 41 by the metal part 42, making it easy to ignite the ignition part 41 and obtain energy. Therefore, power can be easily supplied to the igniter 34 without flowing current from the outside.

[0064] In the power supply device 40 according to the first embodiment of the present invention, the power generating section 43 receives energy from the metal section 42 and generates power.

[0065] This allows energy to be easily applied to the power generating section 43 by the metal section 42. Therefore, power can be easily supplied to the igniter 34 without flowing current from the outside.

[0066] Furthermore, in the power supply device 40 according to the first embodiment of the present invention, the energy is heat, and the power generation unit 43 is a thermoelectric element that generates electricity by the Seebeck effect when a temperature difference occurs in the power generation unit 43 upon receiving the energy.

[0067] This allows heat to be easily obtained by ignition of the AI ​​agent, and therefore a temperature difference can be easily generated in the power generation unit 43. Therefore, power can be easily supplied to the igniter 34 without flowing current from the outside.

[0068] Second Embodiment Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 5. The power supply device of this embodiment is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment, and therefore, description and illustration of similar parts will be omitted unless otherwise specified. Furthermore, components having the same last two digits as those in the above embodiment are similar, and therefore description thereof will be omitted unless otherwise specified.

[0069] As shown in FIG. 5, a power supply device 140 differs from the power supply device 40 of the first embodiment mainly in that a power supply device 143 is provided instead of the power supply device 43 .

[0070] The power generating unit 143 includes a first metal layer 143a, an intermediate semiconductor layer 143b, and a second metal layer 143c, with the semiconductor layer 143b sandwiched between the first metal layer 143a and the second metal layer 143c. The power generating unit 143 may be formed by laminating two or more metals and semiconductors with different Seebeck coefficients, and may be any material capable of generating current when exposed to an abnormally high temperature above a predetermined temperature. The Seebeck coefficient generally refers to the proportionality coefficient between a temperature difference and a voltage, which is generated when a temperature difference occurs across the two ends of a metal or semiconductor. Examples of combinations of two types of semiconductors include n-type and p-type semiconductors. When selecting two or more types of metals and semiconductors, materials with different Seebeck coefficients can be appropriately selected from the materials listed for the combinations of two types of metals and the combinations of two types of semiconductors described above. Examples of combinations of two metals include iridium and rhodium, platinum and rhodium, copper and constantan, iron and constantan, copper and iron, gold and platinum, nickel and molybdenum, tungsten and rhenium, gold and palladium, and platinum and palladium.

[0071] For example, when metal part 142 is heated, the heat from metal part 142 is transferred to ignition part 141, causing the AI ​​agent to ignite, the ignition of the AI ​​agent causes the heat-generating agent to burn and generate heat, the heat generated by the heat-generating agent is transferred to metal part 142, and first metal layer 143a is heated by receiving the heat generated by the heat-generating agent from metal part 142. Power generating part 143 generates electricity through the Seebeck effect due to the temperature difference generated between first metal layer 143a and second metal layer 143c.

[0072] As described above, in the power supply device 140 according to the second embodiment of the present invention, the power generating unit 143 is formed by stacking layers of two or more metal and semiconductor materials with different Seebeck coefficients (first metal layer 143a, semiconductor layer 143b, and second metal layer 143c).

[0073] This allows the Seebeck effect to be easily generated in the power generating section 143. Therefore, power can be easily supplied to a target device or the like without flowing current from the outside.

[0074] Third Embodiment Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 6. The power supply device of this embodiment is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment, and therefore, description and illustration of similar parts will be omitted unless otherwise specified. Furthermore, parts having the same last two digits as those in the above embodiment are similar, and therefore description thereof will be omitted unless otherwise specified.

[0075] As shown in FIG. 6, a power supply device 240 differs from the power supply device 40 of the first embodiment mainly in that a power generation unit 243 is provided instead of the power generation unit 43 .

[0076] The power generation unit 243 has a first semiconductor 243a and a second semiconductor 243b. The second semiconductor 243b has a different Seebeck coefficient from that of the first semiconductor 243a. One end of the first semiconductor 243a and one end of the second semiconductor 243b are electrically connected via the metal unit 242. For example, the first semiconductor 243a is an n-type semiconductor, and the second semiconductor 243b is a p-type semiconductor.

[0077] When metal part 242 is heated, the heat of metal part 242 is transferred to ignition part 241, causing the AI ​​agent to ignite, the ignition of the AI ​​agent causes the heat generating agent to burn and generate heat, the heat generated by the heat generating agent is transferred to metal part 242, and one end of first semiconductor 243a and one end of second semiconductor 243b receive the heat generated by the heat generating agent from metal part 242 and are heated. Power generating part 243 generates electricity by the Seebeck effect due to a temperature difference occurring between one end of first semiconductor 243a and one end of second semiconductor 243b and the other end of first semiconductor 243a and the other end of second semiconductor 243b.

[0078] As described above, in the power supply device 240 of the third embodiment of the present invention, the power generation unit 243 has a first semiconductor 243a and a second semiconductor 243b having a Seebeck coefficient different from that of the first semiconductor 243a, and is formed by electrically connecting one end of the first semiconductor 243a to one end of the second semiconductor 243b.

[0079] This allows the Seebeck effect to be easily generated in the power generating section 243. Therefore, power can be easily supplied to a target device or the like without flowing current from the outside.

[0080] Fourth Embodiment Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 7. The power supply device of this embodiment is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment, and therefore, description and illustration of similar parts will be omitted unless otherwise specified. Furthermore, parts having the same last two digits as those in the above-described embodiments are similar, and therefore description thereof will be omitted unless otherwise specified.

[0081] As shown in FIG. 7, a power supply device 340 differs from the power supply device 40 of the first embodiment mainly in that a power generation unit 343 is provided instead of the power generation unit 43 .

[0082] The power generating unit 343 is made of one type of metal and has a first portion 343a provided on the metal portion 342 side, a second portion 343b provided on the opposite side of the metal portion 342 so as to face the first portion 343a, and a connection portion 343c that electrically connects an end of the first portion 343a to an end of the second portion 343b. The second portion 343b has a protrusion 343d on the opposite side of the first portion 343a, and the power generating unit 343 functions as a heat sink.

[0083] When metal part 342 is heated, the heat of metal part 342 is transferred to ignition part 341 and the AI ​​agent ignites, the heat generating agent burns and generates heat as the AI ​​agent ignites, the heat generated by the heat generating agent is transferred to metal part 342, and first part 343a is heated by receiving the heat generated by the heat generating agent from metal part 342. Power generating part 343 generates electricity by the Seebeck effect due to the temperature difference between first part 343a and second part 343b.

[0084] As described above, in the power supply device 340 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, the power generating section 343 is formed from one type of metal.

[0085] This allows the Seebeck effect to be exerted using a single type of metal, thereby suppressing the need for an increase in the number of metals used and enabling power to be supplied to a target device or the like without the need for an external current.

[0086] <Other Embodiments> Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, they are merely illustrative examples and do not particularly limit the present invention, and the specific configurations, etc. can be appropriately modified in design. Furthermore, the actions and effects described in the embodiments of the invention are merely a list of the most preferable actions and effects resulting from the present invention, and the actions and effects of the present invention are not limited to those described in the embodiments of the present invention.

[0087] In the above first embodiment, the energy is heat, and the power generation unit 43 is a thermoelectric element that generates electricity through the Seebeck effect when a temperature difference occurs in the power generation unit 43 upon receiving the energy, but this is not limited to this.

[0088] For example, the energy may be pressure, and the power generating unit 43 may be a piezoelectric element that receives the energy and generates electricity. In this case, for example, the ignition unit 41 may have a gas generating agent that burns to generate pressure, and the energy may be obtained by generating pressure through the ignition of an AI agent. When the metal unit 42 is heated, the heat of the metal unit 42 is transferred to the ignition unit 41 and the AI ​​agent is ignited, and the ignition of the AI ​​agent causes the gas generating agent to burn and generate gas, and the pressure of the gas generated by the gas generating agent is generated. The power generating unit 43 receives the pressure of the gas generated by the gas generating agent and generates electricity.

[0089] According to this, pressure can be easily obtained by igniting the AI ​​agent, and therefore pressure can be easily applied to the power generation unit 43. Therefore, power can be easily supplied without flowing current from the outside.

[0090] Alternatively, the energy may be light, and the power generating unit 43 may be a photoelectric element that receives the energy and generates electricity. In this case, for example, the ignition unit 41 may have a luminescent agent that burns and emits light, and the energy may be obtained by emitting light when the AI ​​agent ignites. When the metal unit 42 is heated, the heat from the metal unit 42 is transferred to the ignition unit 41, causing the AI ​​agent to ignite, which in turn burns the luminescent agent, which in turn generates light. The power generating unit 43 receives the light generated by the luminescent agent and generates electricity.

[0091] According to this, light can be easily obtained by ignition of the AI ​​agent, and light can be easily irradiated onto the power generation unit 43. Therefore, power can be easily supplied without flowing current from the outside.

[0092] In the third embodiment, the power generating unit 243 includes the first semiconductor 243a and the second semiconductor 243b, but the present invention is not limited to this.

[0093] For example, the power generation unit 243 may have a first metal member instead of the first semiconductor 243a, and a second metal member instead of the second semiconductor 243b. The second metal member has a different Seebeck coefficient from the first metal member. One end of the first metal member and one end of the second metal member are electrically connected via the metal unit 242. Examples of combinations of the first metal member and the second metal member include iridium and rhodium, platinum and rhodium, copper and constantan, iron and constantan, copper and iron, gold and platinum, nickel and molybdenum, tungsten and rhenium, gold and palladium, and platinum and palladium. In this case, when metal part 242 is heated, the heat of metal part 242 is transferred to ignition part 241 and the AI ​​agent ignites, the ignition of the AI ​​agent causes the heat generating agent to burn and generate heat, the heat generated by the heat generating agent is transferred to metal part 242, and one end of the first metal member and one end of the second metal member receive the heat generated by the heat generating agent from metal part 242 and are heated. Power generating part 243 generates electricity by the Seebeck effect due to the temperature difference generated between one end of the first metal member and one end of the second metal member and the other end of the first metal member and the other end of the second metal member.

[0094] This allows the Seebeck effect to be easily generated in the power generating section 243. Therefore, power can be easily supplied without flowing current from the outside.

[0095] In the fourth embodiment, the power generating section 343 is formed of one type of metal, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the first section 343 a and the second section 343 b may be formed of metals with different Seebeck coefficients.

[0096] In addition, in each of the above embodiments, the shape of the power generating unit that generates electricity by the Seebeck effect (particularly the shape of one formed from a single type of metal) can be various shapes such as layered, plate-shaped, rod-shaped, wire-shaped, etc., and combinations of these shapes.

[0097] In addition, in each of the above embodiments, the case where the ignition unit includes a heat-generating agent has been described, but this is not limited thereto. The ignition unit does not have to include a heat-generating agent. In this case, heat generated by ignition of the AI ​​agent is transferred to the metal part, and the power generation unit receives energy from the metal part.

[0098] In addition, in each of the above embodiments, the power supply device has been described as including a metal part, but this is not limited thereto. The power supply device does not have to include a metal part. In this case, for example, the power generation unit contacts the ignition unit and receives energy obtained by ignition of the AI ​​agent from the ignition unit.

[0099] In the first embodiment, the power supply device 40 is connected to a high-pressure tank, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the power supply device may be connected to a sensor that notifies the user when a fire such as a flame is detected, a fire alarm, a fire warning detector, or the like, and supply power to these devices. Furthermore, the power supply device may be connected to a pyrotechnic device and supply power to the pyrotechnic device.

[0100] As shown in an example of an actuation device in Figure 8, the power supply device 40 may be connected to a gas generator 500, which is an example of a pyrotechnic device, and the power generated by the power generation unit 43 may be supplied to the gas generator 500.

[0101] Gas generator 500 is a disk-type gas generator and includes a housing, a holding portion 530, an igniter 540, a cup-shaped member 550, a lower support member 570, an upper support member 580, a cushion material 585, and a filter 590. An accommodating space provided inside the housing accommodates internal components such as a part of holding portion 530, igniter 540, cup-shaped member 550, a transfer charge 559, a gas generating agent 561, lower support member 570, upper support member 580, cushion material 585, and filter 590. A combustion chamber 560 that mainly accommodates gas generating agent 561 out of the above-mentioned internal components is located in the accommodating space provided inside the housing.

[0102] The igniter 540 is for generating a flame and includes an ignition portion 541 and a pair of terminal pins 542. The igniter 540 ignites and burns the gas generating agent 561. The ignition portion 541 is disposed inside the housing and is ignited by the flow of electric current. The ignition portion 541 includes an ignition charge that ignites and burns to generate a flame when activated, and a resistor for igniting the ignition charge. The pair of terminal pins 542 are a pair of terminal pins for passing electric current through the ignition portion 541. The pair of terminal pins 542 are connected to the ignition portion 541 to ignite the ignition charge. The pair of terminal pins 542 extend to the outside of the housing through an opening 515 in the housing.

[0103] The wires 44 and 45 are connected to a pair of terminal pins 542, and the power generation unit 43 is connected to the pair of terminal pins 542 via the wires 44 and 45. For example, when a flame is generated and the temperature around the power supply device 40 reaches a predetermined temperature or higher, the ignition unit 41 ignites. When the ignition unit 41 ignites, the power generation unit 43 generates electricity, and the power generated by the power generation unit 43 is supplied to the igniter 540 via the wires 44 and 45, thereby activating the igniter 540. The transfer charge 559 contained in the transfer chamber 557 is ignited and burns by the flame generated by the activation of the igniter 540, and the fragile portion of the cup-shaped member 550, which is made of a fragile material, ruptures, deforms, or melts. When the cup-shaped member 550 ruptures, deforms, or melts, a large amount of heat particles generated by the combustion of the transfer charge 559 flows into the combustion chamber 560. The transfer charge 559 and a large amount of heat particles generated by the transfer charge 559 flow into the combustion chamber 560, igniting and burning the gas generating agent 561 contained in the combustion chamber 560, generating a large amount of gas. Then, as the pressure in the space inside the housing increases due to the combustion of the gas generating agent 561, the gas is ejected to the outside of the housing through the gas ejection port 523.

[0104] As described above, the electric power generated by the power generation unit 43 is supplied to the gas generator 500 .

[0105] According to this, when the temperature reaches or exceeds a predetermined temperature, power can be supplied to the gas generator 500 without supplying current from the outside, and the gas generator 500 can be operated.

[0106] It should be noted that instead of the power supply device 40, the power supply device 140, the power supply device 240, or the power supply device 340 may be connected to the pyrotechnic device.

[0107] As shown in the example of the operating device in FIG. 9 , the power supply device 40 may be connected to a fire alarm 600 , and the power generated by the power generation unit 43 may be supplied to the fire alarm 600 .

[0108] The fire alarm 600 includes a base 601, a cover 602, and an alarm sound generating unit 603. For example, the base 601 is attached to a ceiling or the like inside a room. The cover 602 is attached to the base 601. The alarm sound generating unit 603 and the power supply device 40 are housed in the base 601 and the cover 602. For example, the alarm sound generating unit 603 is a buzzer or a speaker that generates an alarm sound. Note that instead of the alarm sound generating unit 603, a light-emitting unit (such as an LED) that emits light when an alarm is issued may be used, or a combination of the alarm sound generating unit 603 and the light-emitting unit may be used.

[0109] The wiring 44, 45 is connected to the alarm sound generating unit 603, and the power generating unit 43 is connected to the alarm sound generating unit 603 via the wiring 44, 45. For example, if a flame breaks out or the temperature in the room in which the fire alarm 600 is installed rises to or exceeds a predetermined temperature, the ignition unit 41 ignites. When the ignition unit 41 ignites, the power generating unit 43 generates electricity, and the power generated by the power generating unit 43 is supplied to the alarm sound generating unit 603 via the wiring 44, 45, thereby activating the alarm sound generating unit 603. When the alarm sound generating unit 603 is activated, an alarm sound is generated.

[0110] As described above, the power generated by the power generation unit 43 is supplied to the fire alarm 600 .

[0111] According to this, when the temperature reaches or exceeds a predetermined temperature, power can be supplied to the fire alarm 600 without supplying current from the outside, and the fire alarm 600 can be activated.

[0112] It should be noted that instead of the power supply device 40 , the power supply device 140 , the power supply device 240 , or the power supply device 340 may be connected to the fire alarm 600 .

[0113] Furthermore, the power supply device 40 may be installed outside the fire alarm 600. By installing the power supply device 40 in any location and connecting it to the fire alarm 600 by wiring, it can function as a non-powered fire detection sensor. Note that instead of the power supply device 40, the power supply device 140, the power supply device 240, or the power supply device 340 may be connected to the fire alarm 600.

[0114] <Experimental Results> Next, in order to demonstrate that Seebeck power generation is possible using the temperature difference caused by local heating using explosives in the power generation device shown in the first embodiment, an experiment was carried out to measure voltage and temperature. The experiment and its results will be described with reference to Figs. 10 to 14.

[0115] As shown in FIG. 10, the above-mentioned voltage and temperature measurement experiments were carried out using assemblies No. 1 to No. 3. As will be described in detail later, assembly No. 1, which is a comparative example, used a Seebeck effect module with model number GM200-71-14-16 (manufactured by European Thermodynamics) as the power generation unit, resulting in a power generation device that did not use explosives. Furthermore, as will be described in detail later, assembly No. 2 used a Seebeck effect module with model number GM200-71-14-16 similar to assembly No. 1, and used explosives containing 5-aminotetrazole (10 wt%), boron (15 wt%), potassium nitrate (70 wt%), and Kraton (Kraton TM The generator used an autoignition enhancer agent composition containing FG Polymers' product name: SEBS Maleated (3 wt%) and molybdenum trioxide (2 wt%). Assembly No. 3 used the same Seebeck effect module, model number GM200-71-14-16, as in assembly No. 1. Assembly No. 3 used the same explosive as assembly No. 2 in the upper layer, and an autoignition enhancer agent composition containing silicon nitride (8 wt%), boron (8 wt%), potassium nitrate (79 wt%), HPMC (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, 3 wt%), and PVP (polyvinylpyrrolidone, 2 wt%) in the lower layer.

[0116] As shown in Fig. 11, the assembly No. 2 is a power generating device reconfigured for experimental use from the power generating device shown in the first embodiment, in which copper plates 2 are attached to the top and bottom surfaces of the Seebeck effect module 1 via thermally conductive adhesive tape (not shown), and explosives 3 are placed on the copper plates 2. As described above, the explosives 3 are composed of 5-aminotetrazole (10 wt%), boron (15 wt%), potassium nitrate (70 wt%), Kraton (Kraton TMThis is an autoignition enhancer composition containing SEBS Maleated (3% by weight) manufactured by FG ​​Polymers and molybdenum trioxide (2% by weight).

[0117] Assembly No. 1 differs from Assembly No. 2 in that it does not have explosive 3. Assembly No. 3 differs from Assembly No. 2 in that it has a two-layer explosive instead of explosive 3. The explosive of Assembly No. 3 includes a lower layer that is the layer on the copper plate 2 side and an upper layer that is provided on top of the lower layer. As described above, the lower layer contains silicon nitride (8 wt %) and the like, and the upper layer is a layer made of explosive similar to explosive 3 of Assembly No. 2.

[0118] In each of No. 1 to No. 3, the assembly was wrapped in an asbestos heat-resistant sheet 4, and the assembly wrapped in the heat-resistant sheet 4 was placed on a stove 5 used in AI tests, etc., and the stove operation volume 6 was operated to heat the assembly with the stove 5 at a temperature increase rate of 14°C / min. The voltage generated by the Seebeck effect module 1, the temperature of the upper surface of the copper plate 2 above the Seebeck effect module 1, and the temperature of the lower surface of the copper plate 2 were measured with a voltage temperature measuring device 7 (HIOKI8875).

[0119] As shown in Fig. 12, in the No. 1 assembly, no voltage was generated even when the temperature was raised to the point where the explosives in the No. 2 or No. 3 assemblies ignited.

[0120] As shown in Figure 13, in assembly No. 2, the explosive ignited at 194°C, and a maximum voltage of approximately 4 V was generated along with the explosive ignition. The time from ignition until a voltage of 3 V or higher was generated was 0.7 s. The duration for which a voltage of 3 V or higher continued to be generated was 15.1 s.

[0121] As shown in Figure 14, in the No. 3 assembly, the explosive ignited at 210°C, and a maximum voltage of 4 V was generated along with the explosive ignition. The time from ignition until a voltage of 3 V or more was generated was 1.6 seconds. The duration for which a voltage of 3 V or more continued to be generated was 2.3 seconds.

[0122] From the above experimental results, it was found that the ignition temperature of the gunpowder can be adjusted. Therefore, it is possible to generate electromotive force at any temperature. It was also found that electromotive force can be generated within a few seconds after the gunpowder ignites. Therefore, it is possible to shorten the time range for an abnormal fire alarm. It was also found that an electromotive force of 3V or more can be maintained for 2.3 seconds to 15.1 seconds. Therefore, it is possible to continuously generate electromotive force, rather than an instantaneous electromotive force caused by the combustion of the gunpowder.

[0123] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Seebeck effect module 2 Copper plate 3 Explosive powder 4 Heat-resistant sheet 5 Stove 6 Stove operation volume 7 Voltage temperature measuring device 10 Tank body 10a Space 11, 12 Opening 20 Valve 21 Supply port 30 Safety valve 31 Main body 31A Male threaded portion 31B Internal space 31C Hole 32 Openable portion 33 Discharge port 34 Igniter 35 Terminal pin 36 Fixing member 40, 140, 240, 340 Power supply device 41, 141, 241, 341 Ignition portion 42, 142, 242, 342 Metal portion 43, 143, 243, 343 Power generation portion 143a First metal layer 143b Semiconductor layer 143c Second metal layer 243a First semiconductor 243b Second semiconductor 343a First portion 343b Second portion 343c Connection portion 343d Protrusion portion 44, 45, 144, 145, 244, 245, 344, 345 Wiring 46 Filter circuit 100 High-pressure tank 500 Gas generator 515 Opening 523 Gas outlet 530 Holding portion 540 Igniter 541 Igniter portion 542 Terminal pin 550 Cup-shaped member 557 Transfer chamber 559 Transfer charge 560 Combustion chamber 561 Gas generant 570 Lower support member 580 Upper support member 585 Cushion material 590 Filter 600 Fire alarm 601 Base 602 Cover portion 603 Alarm sound generating portion 1000 Vehicle 1001 Body

Claims

1. An ignition unit having an auto-ignition agent enclosed in a sealed container, A power generation unit that generates electricity using the energy obtained by the ignition of the auto-ignition agent, A power supply device characterized by having the following features.

2. The ignition unit comprises a heat-generating agent that burns and generates heat upon ignition of the auto-ignition agent, a gas-generating agent that generates pressure, or a light-emitting agent that emits light. The power supply device according to claim 1, characterized in that the energy is obtained by generating heat, pressure, or light through the ignition of the auto-ignition agent.

3. The aforementioned energy is heat, The power supply device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the power generation unit is a thermoelectric element that generates electricity by the Seebeck effect when a temperature difference occurs in the power generation unit after receiving the energy.

4. An ignition unit having an auto-ignition agent, A power generation unit that generates electricity using the energy obtained by the ignition of the auto-ignition agent, Equipped with, The aforementioned energy is pressure, The power supply device is characterized in that the power generation unit is a piezoelectric element that receives the energy and generates electricity.

5. An ignition unit having an auto-ignition agent, A power generation unit that generates electricity using the energy obtained by the ignition of the auto-ignition agent, Equipped with, The aforementioned energy is light, The power supply device is characterized in that the power generation unit is a photoelectric element that receives the energy and generates electricity.

6. A power supply device according to any one of claims 1, 4, or 5, The electricity generated by the aforementioned power generation unit is supplied to a pyrotechnic device or fire alarm that operates using the aforementioned electricity, An actuator equipped with the following features.