Energy supply system and energy supply method

Abstract

This energy supply system is provided with: a power generation device that generates power by using renewable energy; a water tank that stores water; a hydrogen generation device that operates using the power generated by the power generation device and generates hydrogen from the water in the water tank; a hydrogen tank that stores the hydrogen generated by the hydrogen generation device; a fuel cell that generates power by using hydrogen from the hydrogen tank; and a charging device that uses the power generated by the fuel cell to charge an on-board battery mounted on a first work machine.

Description

Energy supply system and energy supply method

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an energy supply system and an energy supply method.

[0002] From the viewpoint of preventing global warming, it is desirable to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. To prevent global warming, it has been proposed to use batteries or fuel cells as a power source for work machines instead of engines (ICE: Internal Combustion Engine). Patent Document 1 discloses a work vehicle powered by a fuel cell.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2023-070330

[0004] A work machine operates at a work site. If the work machine is powered by a battery, a charging station is required to charge the battery. If the work machine is powered by a fuel cell, a hydrogen station for the fuel cell is required. If the work site is in a remote area such as a mountainous region or a remote island, it may be difficult to charge the battery or refuel with hydrogen.

[0005] The present disclosure is directed to charging or refueling the batteries of a work machine with hydrogen.

[0006] According to the present disclosure, there is provided an energy supply system comprising: a power generation device that generates electricity using renewable energy; a water tank that stores water; a hydrogen generation device that operates using electricity generated by the power generation device and generates hydrogen from the water in the water tank; a hydrogen tank that stores hydrogen generated by the hydrogen generation device; a fuel cell that generates electricity using hydrogen from the hydrogen tank; and a charging device that charges an on-board battery mounted on a first work machine using the electricity generated by the fuel cell.

[0007] According to the present disclosure, the work machine's batteries are charged or refueled with hydrogen.

[0008] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a construction machine management system according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a shovel according to an embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a bulldozer according to an embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the type of power source of a construction machine according to an embodiment. FIG. 5 is a configuration diagram showing an FC construction machine according to an embodiment. FIG. 6 is a configuration diagram showing a battery construction machine according to an embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an energy supply system according to an embodiment. FIG. 8 is a configuration diagram showing an energy supply system according to an embodiment. FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a controller according to an embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a state in which a production apparatus according to an embodiment is producing hydrogen. FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining a state in which power is supplied from the production apparatus according to an embodiment to a charging apparatus. FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining a state in which power is supplied from a solar power generation system according to an embodiment to a charging apparatus. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of a method for charging a battery according to an embodiment. FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining an example of a method for charging a battery according to an embodiment. FIG. 15 is a configuration diagram showing an energy supply system according to an embodiment.

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings, but the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments. The components of the embodiments described below can be combined as appropriate. In addition, some components may not be used.

[0010] [Overview of the Management System] Fig. 1 is a diagram showing a management system 1 for a work machine 2 according to an embodiment. The management system 1 manages work machines 2 operating at a work site 3. A plurality of work machines 2 are present at the work site 3. In the example shown in Fig. 1, the work machines 2 present at the work site 3 include a shovel 2A, a bulldozer 2B, and a dump truck 2C. In addition, an energy supply system 50 that supplies energy to the work machines 2 is disposed at the work site 3.

[0011] In the embodiment, no operator is on board the work machine 2. The work machine 2 is remotely controlled. A remote control room 4 is installed outside the work machine 2. The remote control room 4 is installed in a remote location on the work site 3. An information terminal 5 and a remote control device 6 for remotely controlling the work machine 2 are each disposed in the remote control room 4. The information terminal 5 and the remote control device 6 are each located outside the work machine 2. The information terminal 5 includes a computer system disposed in the remote control room 4.

[0012] The remote control device 6 is operated by an operator in the remote control room 4. When operated by the operator, the remote control device 6 generates an operation signal for remotely operating the work machine 2. The operation signal generated in the remote control device 6 is input to the information terminal 5. The information terminal 5 transmits the operation signal from the remote control device 6 to the work machine 2 via the communication system 7.

[0013] The work machine 2 operates based on operation signals transmitted from an information terminal 5 located outside the work machine 2. A camera that acquires image data of the work site 3 is provided on at least one of the work machine 2 and the work site 3. The image data of the work site 3 is transmitted to the information terminal 5 via a communication system 7 and displayed on a display device of the information terminal 5. The operator can operate the remote control device 6 while checking the image data of the work site 3.

[0014] The communication system 7 may include a public communication line or a specific communication line. Examples of the communication system 7 include a mobile phone communication network or a satellite communication network. The communication system 7 may include the Internet or a local area network.

[0015] The management system 1 has a management server 8. The management server 8 includes a computer system. The management server 8 is able to communicate with the work machine 2 via a communication system 7. The management server 8 collects operation data of the work machine 2.

[0016] 2 is a diagram showing a shovel 2A according to an embodiment. The shovel 2A has a revolving body 9, a traveling body 10, a work implement 11, and a work implement cylinder 12.

[0017] The rotating unit 9 is rotatably supported by the running unit 10. The running unit 10 rotatably supports the rotating unit 9. The running unit 10 runs on the ground at the work site 3. It runs while being supported. The running unit 10 has a pair of tracks 10A. The excavator 2A runs as the tracks 10A rotate. The rotating unit 9 is an example of a vehicle body of the excavator 2A. The running unit 10 is an example of a traveling device for the excavator 2A.

[0018] The work implement 11 is attached to the revolving unit 9. The work implement 11 includes a boom 11A connected to the revolving unit 9, an arm 11B connected to the boom 11A, and a bucket 11C connected to the arm 11B. The work implement cylinder 12 includes a boom cylinder 12A that operates the boom 11A, an arm cylinder 12B that operates the arm 11B, and a bucket cylinder 12C that operates the bucket 11C.

[0019] 3 is a diagram showing a bulldozer 2B according to the embodiment. The bulldozer 2B has a vehicle body 13, a running body 14, an excavator 15, a ripper 16, a work machine cylinder 17, and a ripper cylinder 18.

[0020] The vehicle body 13 is supported by a running body 14. The running body 14 runs while supporting the vehicle body 13. The running body 14 has a pair of tracks 14A. The bulldozer 2B runs as the tracks 14A rotate. The running body 14 is an example of a traveling device for the bulldozer 2B.

[0021] The excavation work machine 15 performs excavation work, soil dozing work, or ground leveling work on a work target. The excavation work machine 15 is attached to the vehicle body 13. At least a portion of the excavation work machine 15 is disposed in front of the vehicle body 13. The excavation work machine 15 includes an excavation blade 15A. The work machine cylinder 17 operates the excavation blade 15A.

[0022] The ripper work machine 16 performs ripping work on a work object. The work object of the ripper work machine 16 includes the ground at the work site. The ripper work machine 16 is attached to the vehicle body 13. At least a portion of the ripper work machine 16 is disposed rearward of the vehicle body 13. The ripper work machine 16 includes a shank 16A. A ripper cylinder 18 operates the shank 16A.

[0023] 4 is a diagram for explaining the types of power sources 30 of the work machine 2 according to the embodiment. Each of the multiple work machines 2 has a power source 30. The power source 30 is mounted on the body of the work machine 2.

[0024] At the work site 3, a plurality of work machines 2 with different types of power sources 30 are in operation. In this embodiment, the types of power sources 30 include fuel cells 31 and batteries 32. In the following description, a work machine 2 that uses a fuel cell 31 as its power source 30 will be referred to as an FC work machine 21, and a work machine 2 that uses a battery 32 as its power source 30 will be referred to as a battery work machine 22, as appropriate.

[0025] As shown in Fig. 4, the types of power sources 30 of the respective work machines 2 of the same model may be different. The types of power sources 30 of the respective multiple excavators 2A may be different. The types of power sources 30 of the respective multiple bulldozers 2B may be different.

[0026] 5 is a configuration diagram showing an FC work machine 21 according to an embodiment. The FC work machine 21 has a fuel cell 31, a hydrogen port 40, a hydrogen supply device 41, an oxygen supply device 42, a drain pipe 43, a gas-liquid separator 44, a recovery tank 45, a power supply port 46, a DC / DC converter 35A, an inverter 36A, an electric motor 37A, and a hydraulic pump 38A.

[0027] The fuel cell 31 generates electricity by chemically reacting hydrogen, which is a fuel gas, with oxygen, which is an oxidizing gas, and has a stack structure in which a plurality of unit cells are stacked.

[0028] The hydrogen supply device 41 supplies hydrogen to the anode of the fuel cell 31. The hydrogen supply device 41 stores hydrogen. The hydrogen supply device 41 includes a hydrogen tank. The hydrogen supply device 41 is connected to the hydrogen port 40. Hydrogen is filled into the hydrogen supply device 41 from the hydrogen port 40.

[0029] The oxygen supply device 42 supplies air containing oxygen to the cathode of the fuel cell 31. The oxygen supply device 42 includes an air cleaner and an air compressor.

[0030] The drain pipe 43 is connected to the fuel cell 31. The gas-liquid separator 44 is disposed in the drain pipe 43. The gas-liquid separator 44 separates water from the water vapor discharged from the fuel cell 31. The water separated in the gas-liquid separator 44 is stored in a recovery tank 45. The water separated in the gas-liquid separator 44 may be discharged to the atmosphere.

[0031] The power supply port 46 is connected to the fuel cell 31. At least a portion of the power generated by the fuel cell 31 can be supplied to electronic devices external to the FC work machine 21 via the power supply port 46. Note that a rechargeable battery may be mounted on the FC work machine 21. The battery may be charged with the power generated by the fuel cell 31.

[0032] The DC / DC converter 35A boosts the voltage generated by the fuel cell 31. The DC / DC converter 35A supplies the direct current generated by the fuel cell 31 to the inverter 36A.

[0033] The inverter 36A converts the direct current from the DC / DC converter 35A into a three-phase alternating current and supplies it to the electric motor 37A. The electric motor 37A is driven based on the three-phase alternating current supplied from the inverter 36A.

[0034] The electric motor 37A is driven based on electric power from the inverter 36A. The hydraulic pump 38A is driven by the rotational force generated by the electric motor 37A. The hydraulic pump 38A discharges hydraulic oil. The hydraulic oil discharged from the hydraulic pump 38A is supplied to hydraulic actuators such as the work implement cylinder 12 and a swing motor and travel motor (not shown) provided on the FC work machine 21. Note that an electric actuator may be provided on the FC work machine 21 instead of a hydraulic actuator. When an electric actuator is provided on the FC work machine 21 instead of a hydraulic actuator, the hydraulic pump 38A is omitted.

[0035] 6 is a configuration diagram showing a battery work machine 22 according to an embodiment. The battery work machine 22 has a battery 32, a power receiving port 47, a charger 48, a DC / DC converter 35B, an inverter 36B, an electric motor 37B, and a hydraulic pump 38B.

[0036] The battery 32 is an internal battery mounted on the battery work machine 22. The battery 32 is a rechargeable battery. The battery 32 includes a secondary battery. In this embodiment, the battery 32 includes a lithium ion battery (LiB).

[0037] The charger 48 is connected to charging equipment provided outside the battery work machine 22 via the power receiving port 47. The charger 48 includes an AC / DC converter. The charger 48 may also include a DC / DC converter. The charger 48 charges the battery 32 with power supplied from the charging equipment. In this embodiment, the charging equipment is a charging device 54 of an energy supply system 50, which will be described later.

[0038] The DC / DC converter 35B boosts the voltage from the battery 32. The functions of the DC / DC converter 35B, the inverter 36B, the electric motor 37B, and the hydraulic pump 38B are the same as the functions of the DC / DC converter 35A, the inverter 36A, the electric motor 37A, and the hydraulic pump 38A described above, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0039] [Energy Supply System] Figure 7 is a diagram showing an energy supply system 50 according to an embodiment. Figure 8 is a configuration diagram showing the energy supply system 50 according to an embodiment. The energy supply system 50 supplies energy to the work machine 2. The energy supply system 50 supplies hydrogen as energy to the hydrogen port 40 of the FC work machine 21. The energy supply system 50 supplies electric power as energy to the power receiving port 47 of the battery work machine 22. The fuel cell 31 mounted on the FC work machine 21 generates electricity using hydrogen supplied from the energy supply system 50 via the hydrogen port 40. The battery 32 mounted on the battery work machine 22 is charged with electric power supplied from the energy supply system 50 via the power receiving port 47.

[0040] The energy supply system 50 is installed at an off-grid work site 3 or in the vicinity of the work site 3. "Off-grid" refers to a state where the work site 3 is not connected to the power grid of a power transmission and distribution company. The energy supply system 50 can supply energy to the work machine 2 without relying on the power grid of a power transmission and distribution company. The energy supply system 50 supplies energy generated by using a medium to the work machine 2. The energy supply system 50 generates energy by circulating a medium inside the energy supply system 50. In an embodiment, the medium includes hydrogen and water.

[0041] As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the energy supply system 50 includes a controller 51, a power generation device 52, a manufacturing device 53, a charging device 54, a water tank 55 for storing water, and a hydrogen tank 56.

[0042] The power generation device 52 generates power using renewable energy. Renewable energy refers to energy that is always present in nature. Renewable energy includes natural energy such as sunlight, wind power, hydropower, and geothermal energy. When generating power using renewable energy, carbon dioxide is not emitted. In the embodiment, the power generation device 52 generates power using sunlight. In the following description, the power generation device 52 will be referred to as a solar power generation system 52 as appropriate. As shown in FIG. 7 , the solar power generation system 52 includes a solar cell module 52A and a current collector 52B.

[0043] The production device 53 generates hydrogen and electricity. The production device 53 operates using electricity generated by the power generation device 52. The production device 53 has the functions of a hydrogen generation device and a fuel cell. The hydrogen generation device generates hydrogen by electrolysis of water. The fuel cell generates electricity by the reverse reaction of water electrolysis (a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen). The production device 53 does not function as a fuel cell during the period when it functions as a hydrogen generation device. The production device 53 does not function as a hydrogen generation device during the period when it functions as a fuel cell. The production device 53 functions as both a hydrogen generation device (water electrolysis device) and a fuel cell.

[0044] The water tank 55 stores water. When the production device 53 functions as a hydrogen generator, it generates hydrogen from the water in the water tank 55. The production device 53 generates hydrogen by electrolyzing the water supplied from the water tank 55. The hydrogen generated by the production device 53 is stored in the hydrogen tank 56.

[0045] The hydrogen tank 56 stores hydrogen. When the production device 53 functions as a fuel cell, it generates electricity by using hydrogen from the hydrogen tank 56. The production device 53 generates electricity by causing a chemical reaction between the hydrogen supplied from the hydrogen tank 56 and oxygen in the atmosphere.

[0046] When the production apparatus 53 functions as a hydrogen generation apparatus, hydrogen is not supplied from the hydrogen tank 56 to the production apparatus 53 (fuel cell) during the period when hydrogen is supplied from the production apparatus 53 (hydrogen generation apparatus) to the hydrogen tank 56. When the production apparatus 53 functions as a fuel cell, hydrogen is not supplied from the production apparatus 53 (hydrogen generation apparatus) to the hydrogen tank 56 during the period when hydrogen is supplied from the hydrogen tank 56 to the production apparatus 53 (fuel cell).

[0047] When the manufacturing apparatus 53 functions as a fuel cell, the electric power generated in the manufacturing apparatus 53 is supplied to the charging apparatus 54. The charging apparatus 54 uses the electric power generated by the manufacturing apparatus 53 to charge the battery 32 mounted on the battery work machine 22 (first work machine). The charging apparatus 54 has a rechargeable battery. The electric power generated in the manufacturing apparatus 53 is stored in the rechargeable battery of the charging apparatus 54. The charging apparatus 54 supplies the electric power stored in the rechargeable battery of the charging apparatus 54 to the power receiving port 47 of the battery work machine 22. Furthermore, when the manufacturing apparatus 53 functions as a fuel cell, water is produced by a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen. The water produced in the manufacturing apparatus 53 (fuel cell) is supplied to a water tank 55.

[0048] [Controller] Fig. 9 is a block diagram showing a controller 51 according to an embodiment. The controller 51 includes at least one processor 510. The controller 51 including the at least one processor 510 operates using power generated by the solar power generation system 52. The controller 51 may operate using power supplied from a rechargeable battery in the charging device 54. For example, at night, on cloudy days, or on rainy days, the controller 51 may operate using power supplied from the rechargeable battery in the charging device 54. The controller 51 includes the processor 510, a storage device 520, an input / output interface 530, and a communication interface 540.

[0049] The processor 510 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The processor 510 may also include a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). The storage device 520 includes a recording medium on which computer programs and data are recorded so as to be readable by the processor 510. The storage device 520 includes a system memory such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) or a ROM (Read Only Memory), and an auxiliary storage device. Examples of the auxiliary storage device include a hard disk or a semiconductor memory.

[0050] The input / output interface 530 is connected to each of the manufacturing device 53 and the charging device 54. The processor 510 is connected to each of the manufacturing device 53 and the charging device 54 via the input / output interface 530. The communication interface 540 communicates with the on-board controller 23 mounted on the work machine 2 (21, 22).

[0051] The processor 510 has a manufacturing control unit 511 that outputs control commands to control the manufacturing device 53, a charging control unit 512 that outputs control commands to control the charging device 54, a processing unit 513 that processes data, and a communication unit 514 that communicates with the on-board controller 23. The manufacturing control unit 511, the charging control unit 512, the processing unit 513, and the communication unit 514 each include a computer program, an algorithm, and data that are executed by the processor 510.

[0052] [Hydrogen Production] Figure 10 is a diagram for explaining a state in which the production apparatus 53 according to the embodiment is producing hydrogen. The production apparatus 53 operates using power generated by a solar power generation system 52. The production apparatus 53 may also operate using power supplied from a rechargeable battery in a charging device 54. For example, at night, on cloudy days, or on rainy days, the production apparatus 53 may also operate using power supplied from the rechargeable battery in the charging device 54. When the production apparatus 53 functions as a hydrogen generator, water is supplied to the production apparatus 53 from a water tank 55. The production apparatus 53 generates hydrogen by electrolyzing the water supplied from the water tank 55. The hydrogen generated by the production apparatus 53 is stored in a hydrogen tank 56.

[0053] As explained with reference to Fig. 4, water is produced when hydrogen and oxygen undergo a chemical reaction in the fuel cell 31 mounted on the FC work machine 21. The water produced in the fuel cell 31 is stored in a recovery tank 45. As shown in Fig. 9, the water produced in the fuel cell 31 of the FC work machine 21 may be supplied to a water tank 55. The water recovered in the recovery tank 45 may be poured into the water tank 55. At least a portion of the hydrogen stored in the hydrogen tank 56 may be supplied to the FC work machine 21 (second work machine).

[0054] [Power Supply from Fuel Cell] Figure 11 is a diagram for explaining a state in which power is supplied from the manufacturing apparatus 53 to the charging device 54 according to the embodiment. When the manufacturing apparatus 53 functions as a fuel cell, hydrogen is supplied to the manufacturing apparatus 53 from the hydrogen tank 56. The manufacturing apparatus 53 generates power by causing a chemical reaction between the hydrogen supplied from the hydrogen tank 56 and oxygen in the atmosphere. The power generated by the manufacturing apparatus 53 is charged into a rechargeable battery of the charging device 54. The charging device 54 charges the battery 32 mounted on the battery work machine 22.

[0055] [Power Supply from Solar Power Generation System] Fig. 12 is a diagram for explaining a state in which power is supplied from the solar power generation system 52 according to the embodiment to the charging device 54. As shown in Fig. 12, power generated by the solar power generation system 52 may be supplied to the charging device 54. The power generated by the solar power generation system 52 may be charged into a rechargeable battery of the charging device 54. The charging device 54 charges the battery 32 mounted on the battery work machine 22.

[0056] The processing unit 513 may acquire the hydrogen storage rate of the hydrogen tank 56 and, based on the hydrogen storage rate, output a control command to cause the charging device 54 to use the power generated by the solar power generation system 52 to charge the battery 32 of the battery-powered working machine 22. For example, if the hydrogen storage rate of the hydrogen tank 56 is low and it is difficult for the manufacturing device 53 (fuel cell) to generate power, the power generated by the solar power generation system 52 may be supplied to the charging device 54. If the processing unit 513 determines that the hydrogen storage rate of the hydrogen tank 56 is equal to or lower than a predetermined lower limit threshold, it may decide to supply the power generated by the solar power generation system 52 to the charging device 54. The lower limit threshold is, for example, 5%.

[0057] When the processing unit 513 determines that the hydrogen storage rate of the hydrogen tank 56 is equal to or greater than a predetermined upper threshold, the processing unit 513 may decide to supply the power generated by the solar power generation system 52 to the charging device 54. The upper threshold is, for example, 95%. For example, when the production apparatus 53 (hydrogen generator) is producing hydrogen and the hydrogen storage rate of the hydrogen tank 56 becomes equal to or greater than the upper threshold, the production control unit 511 stops the operation of the production apparatus 53. When the solar power generation system 52 is in a state where it can generate power (when it is irradiated with sunlight), the processing unit 513 may switch the solar power generation system 52 from supplying power to the production apparatus 53 to supply power to the charging device 54.

[0058] [Charging Method] Next, a method for charging the battery 32 according to the embodiment will be described. Fig. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of a method for charging the battery 32 according to the embodiment. Fig. 13 shows a state in which the battery working machine 22 according to the embodiment is approaching a charging device 54.

[0059] The manufacturing device 53, which functions as a fuel cell, generates electricity using hydrogen from a hydrogen tank 56. The electricity generated by the manufacturing device 53 is stored in a rechargeable battery in the charging device 54. The on-board controller 23 of the battery work machine 22 sends a request signal to the communication unit 514 requesting charging of the battery 32. The communication unit 514 outputs a control command so that the battery work machine 22 that sent the request signal approaches the charging device 54. As shown in FIG. 13 , after the battery work machine 22 approaches the charging device 54, the charging control unit 512 outputs a control command to charge the battery 32 of the battery work machine 22 in the charging device 54. By outputting a control command from the charging control unit 512, the power supply arm 54A of the charging device 54 is connected to the power receiving port 47, and the charging device 54 supplies power to the battery work machine 22.

[0060] 14 is a diagram for explaining an example of a method for charging the battery 32 according to the embodiment. The charging control unit 512 may determine which of the multiple battery work machines 22 present at the work site 3 should have its battery 32 charged, based on the remaining capacity of the battery 32 and the hydrogen storage rate of the hydrogen tank.

[0061] The charging control unit 512 acquires the remaining capacity of the battery 32 of each of the multiple battery work machines 22 present at the work site 3 via the communication system 70. The charging control unit 512 also acquires the hydrogen storage rate of the hydrogen tank 56. The charging control unit 512 can acquire the hydrogen storage rate of the hydrogen tank 56, for example, by monitoring detection data from a pressure sensor 57 that detects the pressure of the hydrogen tank 56. If the charging control unit 512 determines that the hydrogen storage rate of the hydrogen tank 56 is equal to or greater than a predetermined upper threshold, it decides to supply hydrogen from the hydrogen tank 56 to the manufacturing equipment 53 functioning as a fuel cell. The upper threshold is, for example, 95%. The communication unit 514 selects the battery work machine 22 with the lowest remaining capacity of the battery 32 from the multiple battery work machines 22 present at the work site 3, and outputs a control command to bring the selected battery work machine 22 closer to the charging device 54. The charging control unit 512 outputs a control command so that the charging device 54 charges the battery 32 of the battery work machine 22 that has approached the charging device 54.

[0062] 10 , at least a portion of the hydrogen stored in the hydrogen tank 56 may be supplied to the FC work machine 21. The processing unit 513 monitors the hydrogen storage rate of the hydrogen tank 56. When the processing unit 513 determines that the hydrogen storage rate of the hydrogen tank 56 is equal to or greater than a predetermined upper threshold, it decides to supply at least a portion of the hydrogen stored in the hydrogen tank 56 to the FC work machine 21. The communication unit 514 selects, from among the multiple FC work machines 21 present at the work site 3, the FC work machine 21 with the least amount of hydrogen stored in the hydrogen supply device 41, and outputs a control command to bring the selected FC work machine 21 closer to the hydrogen tank 56. The processing unit 513 outputs a control command so that at least a portion of the hydrogen stored in the hydrogen tank 56 is supplied to the FC work machine 21 that has approached the hydrogen tank 56. When a control command is output from the processing unit 513, for example, a supply tube (not shown) connected to the hydrogen tank 56 is connected to the hydrogen port 40, and at least a portion of the hydrogen stored in the hydrogen tank 56 is supplied to the FC work machine 21.

[0063] [Effects] As described above, in the embodiment, the energy supply system 50 includes a solar power generation system 52 that generates electricity using renewable energy, a water tank 55 that stores water, a manufacturing device 53 that operates using electricity generated by the solar power generation system 52 and functions as an aquatic production device that generates hydrogen from the water in the water tank 55, a hydrogen tank 56 that stores the hydrogen produced by the manufacturing device 53, the manufacturing device 53 that functions as a fuel cell that generates electricity using the hydrogen from the hydrogen tank 56, and a charging device 54 that charges the battery 32 installed in the battery work machine 22 using the electricity generated by the manufacturing device 53.

[0064] According to the embodiment, the energy supply system 50 can charge the battery 32 of the battery work machine 22 operating at the off-grid work site 3. The energy supply system 50 can also supply hydrogen to the FC work machine 21 operating at the off-grid work site 3. By replenishing the water tank 55 with water, the energy supply system 50 can continue to supply energy to the work machine 2 at the off-grid work site 3.

[0065] [Other Embodiments] In the above-described embodiment, the processing unit 513 may determine whether to have the manufacturing apparatus 53 generate hydrogen or generate electricity based on the remaining capacity of the battery 32 and the hydrogen storage rate of the hydrogen tank 56. If the remaining capacity of the battery 32 is equal to or less than a predetermined lower battery threshold, the processing unit 513 causes the manufacturing apparatus 53 to generate electricity so as to charge the battery 32. If the hydrogen storage rate of the hydrogen tank 56 is equal to or less than a predetermined lower threshold, the processing unit 513 causes the manufacturing apparatus 53 to generate hydrogen so as to increase the hydrogen storage rate of the hydrogen tank 56.

[0066] In the above-described embodiment, the processing unit 513 may not cause the production device 53 to produce hydrogen during the period when the charging device 54 is charging the battery 32, and may instead supply the electricity generated by the production device 53 to the battery 32.

[0067] In the above-described embodiment, the processing unit 513 may not generate electricity in the manufacturing device 53 during the period when hydrogen is supplied from the hydrogen tank 56 to the FC work machine 21, and may supply the hydrogen produced by the manufacturing device 53 to the hydrogen tank 56.

[0068] In the above-described embodiment, the processing unit 513 may determine whether to supply the power generated by the solar power generation system 52 to the manufacturing apparatus 53 or to the rechargeable battery of the charging device 54 based on the remaining capacity of the battery 32 and the hydrogen storage rate of the hydrogen tank 56. When the remaining capacity of the battery 32 is equal to or less than a predetermined battery lower limit threshold, the processing unit 513 supplies the power generated by the solar power generation system 52 to the rechargeable battery of the charging device 54 so that the battery 32 can be charged. When the hydrogen storage rate of the hydrogen tank 56 is equal to or less than a predetermined lower limit threshold, the processing unit 513 supplies the power generated by the solar power generation system 52 to the manufacturing apparatus 53, causing the manufacturing apparatus 53 to produce hydrogen, so that hydrogen is supplied to the hydrogen tank 56.

[0069] In the above-described embodiment, during the period when the charging device 54 is charging the battery 32, the processing unit 513 may combine at least two of the power from the solar power generation system 52, the power from the rechargeable battery of the charging device 54, and the power from the manufacturing device 53 functioning as a fuel cell and supply the power to the battery 32.

[0070] In the above-described embodiment, the production device 53 has the functions of both a hydrogen generator (water electrolysis device) and a fuel cell. However, the hydrogen generator and the fuel cell may be provided separately.

[0071] Fig. 15 is a configuration diagram showing an energy supply system 500 according to an embodiment. As shown in Fig. 15, a hydrogen generator 53A and a fuel cell 53B may be provided separately. The hydrogen generator 53A is connected to both a water tank 55 and a hydrogen tank 56. The fuel cell 53B is connected to both the water tank 55 and the hydrogen tank 56.

[0072] When the hydrogen generator 53A generates hydrogen, water is supplied to the hydrogen generator 53A from the water tank 55. The hydrogen generated in the hydrogen generator 53A is stored in the hydrogen tank 56. When the fuel cell 53B generates power, hydrogen is supplied to the fuel cell 53B from the hydrogen tank 56. The water generated in the fuel cell 53B is stored in the water tank 55. The power generated by the fuel cell 53B is supplied to the charging device 54.

[0073] During the period when water is supplied from the water tank 55 to the hydrogen generator 53A, water is supplied from the fuel cell 53B to the water tank 55. During the period when hydrogen is supplied from the hydrogen generator 53A to the hydrogen tank 56, hydrogen is supplied from the hydrogen tank 56 to the fuel cell 53B. That is, in the example shown in Fig. 15, hydrogen generation in the hydrogen generator 53A and power generation in the fuel cell 53B are carried out in parallel.

[0074] In the above-described embodiment, if the work site 3 is in a remote location, the communication environment may be poor. The controller 51 of the energy supply system 50 and the work machine 2 may communicate via a local area network such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

[0075] In the above-described embodiment, the work machine 2 is remotely controlled by the remote control device 6. An operator may board the work machine 2 and operate an operation device arranged on the work machine 2 to operate the work machine 2. The work machine 2 may also be an autonomous work machine that operates autonomously without being operated by an operator.

[0076] 1...Management system, 2...Construction machine, 2A...Shovel, 2B...Bulldozer, 2C...Dump truck, 3...Work site, 4...Remote control room, 5...Information terminal, 6...Remote control device, 7...Communication system, 8...Management server, 9...Rotating body, 10...Traveling body, 10A...Crawler, 11...Construction machine, 11A...Boom, 11B...Arm, 11C...Bucket, 12...Construction machine cylinder, 12A...Boom cylinder, 12B...Arm cylinder, 12C...Bucket cylinder , 13...body, 14...traveling body, 14A...track, 15...excavation work machine, 15A...digging blade, 16...ripper work machine, 16A...shank, 17...work machine cylinder, 18...ripper cylinder, 21...FC work machine (second work machine), 22...battery work machine (first work machine), 23...on-board controller, 30...power source, 31...fuel cell, 32...battery, 35A...DC / DC converter, 35B...DC / DC converter, 36A...inverter motor, 36B... inverter, 37A... electric motor, 37B... electric motor, 38A... hydraulic pump, 38B... hydraulic pump, 40... hydrogen port, 41... hydrogen supply device, 42... oxygen supply device, 43... drain pipe, 44... gas-liquid separator, 45... recovery tank, 46... power supply port, 47... power receiving port, 48... charger, 50... energy supply system, 51... controller, 52... solar power generation system (power generation device), 52A... solar cell module, 5 2B...current collector, 53...production equipment, 53A...hydrogen generation equipment, 53B...fuel cell, 54...charging equipment, 54A...power supply arm, 55...water tank, 56...hydrogen tank, 57...pressure sensor, 70...communication system, 500...energy supply system, 510...processor, 511...production control unit, 512...charging control unit, 513...processing unit, 514...communication unit, 520...storage device, 530...input / output interface, 540...communication interface.

Claims

1. An energy supply system comprising: a power generation device that generates electricity using renewable energy; a water tank that stores water; a hydrogen generation device that operates using electricity generated by the power generation device and generates hydrogen from the water in the water tank; a hydrogen tank that stores hydrogen generated by the hydrogen generation device; a fuel cell that generates electricity using hydrogen from the hydrogen tank; and a charging device that charges an on-board battery mounted on a first work machine using the electricity generated by the fuel cell.

2. The energy supply system according to claim 1, wherein water produced in the fuel cell is supplied to the water tank.

3. The energy supply system according to claim 1, wherein the hydrogen tank supplies hydrogen to a second work machine equipped with an on-board fuel cell.

4. The energy supply system according to claim 3, wherein water produced in the on-board fuel cell is supplied to the water tank.

5. An energy supply system as described in claim 1, comprising a processor that operates using the power generated by the power generation device, wherein the processor: obtains the remaining capacity of the on-board battery; obtains the hydrogen storage rate of the hydrogen tank; and determines, based on the remaining capacity and the hydrogen storage rate, the first work machine from among the plurality of first work machines that will charge the on-board battery.

6. The energy supply system according to claim 1, further comprising a processor that operates using the power generated by the power generation device, the processor obtaining the hydrogen storage rate of the hydrogen tank, and outputting a control command to the charging device to charge the on-board battery using the power generated by the power generation device based on the hydrogen storage rate.

7. The energy supply system of claim 1, wherein the hydrogen generation device generates hydrogen by electrolysis of water, the fuel cell generates electricity by a reverse reaction of the electrolysis of water, and during a period when hydrogen is supplied from the hydrogen generation device to the hydrogen tank, hydrogen is not supplied from the hydrogen tank to the fuel cell, and during a period when hydrogen is supplied from the hydrogen tank to the fuel cell, hydrogen is not supplied from the hydrogen generation device to the hydrogen tank.

8. The energy supply system according to claim 7, further comprising a processor that operates using the power generated by the power generation device, wherein the processor: obtains the remaining capacity of the on-board battery; obtains the hydrogen storage rate of the hydrogen tank; and determines whether to generate the hydrogen or the power based on the remaining capacity and the hydrogen storage rate.

9. The energy supply system according to claim 7, further comprising a processor that operates using the power generated by the power generation device, wherein the processor does not cause the hydrogen generation device to generate hydrogen during the period when the charging device is charging the vehicle battery, and supplies the power generated by the fuel cell to the vehicle battery.

10. The energy supply system according to claim 7, further comprising a processor that operates using the electric power generated by the power generation device, wherein during a period in which hydrogen is supplied from the hydrogen tank to a second work machine equipped with an on-board fuel cell, the processor does not generate electric power in the fuel cell, and supplies hydrogen generated by the hydrogen generation device to the hydrogen tank.

11. The energy supply system according to claim 7, further comprising a processor that operates using the electric power generated by the power generation device, wherein the processor: obtains the remaining capacity of the on-board battery; obtains the hydrogen storage rate of the hydrogen tank; and, based on the remaining capacity and the hydrogen storage rate, determines whether the electric power generated by the power generation device should be supplied to the hydrogen generation device or to a rechargeable battery provided in the charging device.

12. The energy supply system according to claim 1, further comprising a processor that operates using the power generated by the power generation device, wherein the processor combines at least two of the power from the power generation device, the power from the rechargeable battery of the charging device, and the power from the fuel cell and supplies the power to the vehicle battery during a period when the charging device is charging the vehicle battery.

13. The energy supply system according to claim 1, wherein the hydrogen generation device and the fuel cell are provided separately, and hydrogen is supplied from the hydrogen tank to the fuel cell during a period in which hydrogen is supplied from the hydrogen generation device to the hydrogen tank.

14. An energy supply method comprising: using renewable energy to generate electricity in a power generation device; generating hydrogen from water in a water tank using the electricity generated by the power generation device and storing the hydrogen in a hydrogen tank; using the hydrogen from the hydrogen tank to generate electricity in a fuel cell; and using the electricity generated by the fuel cell to charge an on-board battery mounted on a first work machine.

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