JP2016094328A - Hydrogen generator and method for operating the same, and fuel cell system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a hydrogen generator capable of operating without using an independent start-up power source at the time of power failure.SOLUTION: A hydrogen generator 100 includes: a reformer 1 for reforming a raw material containing a hydrocarbon component to produce hydrogen-containing gas; a combustor 4 for combusting at least one of the raw material and the hydrogen-containing gas to heat the reformer 1; a raw material supplier 2 for supplying the raw material to the reformer 1; and a controller 30 for starting a start-up step at a predetermined timing before a starting time of the occurrence of power failure based on power failure occurrence information which predicts the occurrence of the power failure and is input from the outside. Thereby, it is possible to end the start-up step of the hydrogen generator 100 before the occurrence of the power failure, and accordingly hydrogen can be supplied from the hydrogen generator 100 from the start point of the power failure without using an independent start-up power source.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  The present invention relates to a hydrogen generator that produces a product gas containing hydrogen using a hydrocarbon-based fuel such as city gas or LPG as a raw material gas. The present invention also relates to a method for operating this hydrogen generator. The present invention also relates to a fuel cell system including a fuel cell that generates power using hydrogen produced by the hydrogen generator.

  Hydrogen-containing gas used as fuel for power generation of fuel cells is not maintained as general infrastructure gas. For this reason, the fuel cell system usually includes a hydrogen generator having a reformer. In the reformer, a hydrogen-containing gas is generated by a reforming reaction (generally, a steam reforming reaction) from city gas, natural gas, or LP gas, which is a general infrastructure.

  In this steam reforming reaction, hydrogen is produced by reacting raw material city gas or the like with water vapor at a high temperature of about 600 ° C. to 700 ° C. using a Ni-based or Ru-based noble metal-based reforming catalyst. A hydrogen-containing gas as a main component is generated. Further, the reformer is heated by the combustor in order to bring the reformer to a temperature necessary for the steam reforming reaction.

  At start-up, the raw material gas that has flowed through the hydrogen generator is returned to the combustor for combustion, and when supplying hydrogen-containing gas to the fuel cell, the fuel off-gas discharged from the fuel cell is combusted in the combustor. The method is common.

  In addition, since carbon monoxide (CO) is produced as a side reaction in the reformer, if the CO poisons the fuel cell and lowers the voltage (in the case of a polymer electrolyte fuel cell), a CO remover is used. Provided downstream of the reformer. The CO remover includes a CO conversion catalyst that reacts CO with water vapor to reduce CO, and a selective oxidation catalyst that reacts CO with a small amount of oxygen to oxidize and remove CO.

  By the way, in a hydrogen generator and a fuel cell system, in general, power is received from an interconnected system power source, a controller and an auxiliary machine are driven, and each part is heated by a combustor, an electric heater, or the like. It is running. Since the system power supply cannot be activated when the system power supply is shut off, that is, when the power outage is not completed, hydrogen or electricity cannot be used during the power outage.

  If the start-up is completed at the time of a power failure, the operation of the hydrogen generator and the fuel cell system can be performed even at the time of a power failure by electricity generated in the fuel cell using hydrogen supplied from the hydrogen generator already started. Can be continued. In order to start a hydrogen generator or a fuel cell system in the event of a power failure, it has been proposed to operate auxiliary equipment necessary for starting using a separate independent power source (such as a storage battery) (for example, a patent) Reference 1).

  In addition, it has been proposed to charge a storage battery in advance before a power failure based on planned power failure information (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

JP 2012-38559 A JP 2014-23284 A

  However, although the power consumption of the self-starting power supply can be suppressed in the one proposed in Patent Document 1, it is necessary to provide a self-starting power supply because there is power consumption of auxiliary equipment such as a pump. It had the problem of becoming a cause of cost and cost increase.

  Moreover, even what was proposed by patent document 2 had the subject that it was necessary to provide a storage battery and caused the cost increase similarly to patent document 1. FIG.

  The present invention solves the above-described conventional problems, and a hydrogen generator capable of supplying hydrogen from the hydrogen generator from the start of a power failure without providing a self-starting power source, an operating method thereof, and An object of the present invention is to provide a fuel cell system capable of generating power using hydrogen generated from the hydrogen generator.

  In order to solve the above conventional problems, a hydrogen generator of the present invention includes a reformer that reforms a raw material containing a hydrocarbon component to generate a hydrogen-containing gas, and at least one of the raw material and the hydrogen-containing gas. The start time of the occurrence of power outage based on the combustor that heats the reformer and heats the reformer, the raw material supplier that supplies the reformer with the raw material, and the power outage occurrence information that is input from the outside that is predicted to generate the power outage Includes a controller that starts the start-up process at a predetermined timing before the start time of the occurrence of a power failure so that the hydrogen-containing gas is supplied to the outside after the start-up process is completed.

  As a result, since the hydrogen-containing gas can be supplied to the outside after the start-up process of the hydrogen generator before the power failure occurs, the power supply from the fuel cell that generates power using the hydrogen supplied from the hydrogen generator is received. If it is possible, hydrogen can be supplied from the hydrogen generator from the start of the power outage without providing a self-starting power source.

  According to the hydrogen generator of the present invention, the operation method thereof, and the fuel cell system, hydrogen can be supplied from the hydrogen generator from the start of a power failure without the need for a self-starting power source.

The block diagram which shows an example of a structure of the hydrogen generator in Embodiment 1 of this invention The flowchart which shows an example of operation | movement of the hydrogen generator in Embodiment 1 of this invention. The figure which shows an example of a structure of the fuel cell system in Embodiment 2-6 of Embodiment 2 and Embodiment 8 of this invention The flowchart which shows an example of operation | movement of the fuel cell system in Embodiment 2 of this invention. The flowchart which shows an example of operation | movement of the fuel cell system in Embodiment 3 of this invention. The flowchart which shows an example of operation | movement of the fuel cell system in Embodiment 4 of this invention. The flowchart which shows an example of operation | movement of the fuel cell system in Embodiment 5 of this invention. The flowchart which shows an example of operation | movement of the fuel cell system in Embodiment 6 of this invention. The figure which shows an example of a structure of the fuel cell system in Embodiment 7 of this invention. Flowchart showing an example of the operation of the fuel cell system according to Embodiment 7 of the present invention. Flowchart showing an example of the operation of the fuel cell system according to Embodiment 8 of the present invention. The figure which shows an example of a structure of the fuel cell system in Embodiment 9 of this invention. Flowchart showing an example of the operation of the fuel cell system according to Embodiment 9 of the present invention.

  According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a reformer that reforms a raw material containing a hydrocarbon component to produce a hydrogen-containing gas, and burns at least one of the raw material and the hydrogen-containing gas to heat the reformer. The start-up process is terminated at the start time of the occurrence of the power outage based on the power outage occurrence information input from the outside in which the combustor to be operated, the raw material supplier for supplying the raw material to the reformer, and the occurrence of the power outage is predicted And a controller that starts a start-up process at a predetermined timing before the start time of the occurrence of the power failure so that the hydrogen-containing gas is supplied to the outside.

  As a result, since the hydrogen-containing gas can be supplied to the outside after the start-up process of the hydrogen generator before the power failure occurs, the power supply from the fuel cell that generates power using the hydrogen supplied from the hydrogen generator is received. If it is possible, hydrogen can be supplied from the hydrogen generator from the start of the power outage without providing a self-starting power source.

  The second invention, in particular, in the first invention, the power failure occurrence information input from the outside where the occurrence of the power failure is predicted is used as the time information of the planned power failure, and the power failure occurs from the time information of the planned power failure. Since the time can be accurately detected and the hydrogen generator can be started up without any waste before a power outage occurs, hydrogen is generated from the beginning of the power outage in preparation for a planned power outage without the need for a self-starting power supply. Hydrogen can be supplied from the apparatus.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in particular, the controller in the first or second aspect of the present invention is configured to display a power outage by displaying or sounding the power outage occurrence information input from the outside where the occurrence of the power outage is predicted before starting the starting process. When a start permission is input in response to the notification, the start process is controlled at a predetermined timing before the start of the power outage. Only when the operation of the hydrogen generator is required, it can be activated before the start time of the occurrence of a power failure in preparation for a power failure.

  According to a fourth aspect of the invention, in particular, the controller according to the first or second aspect of the present invention is configured to display a power outage by displaying or sounding the power outage occurrence information input from the outside where the occurrence of the power outage is predicted before starting the start-up process. A notification is made as a notice, and if the activation disapproval is not input for the notification until a predetermined time elapses from the notification, the activation process is started at a predetermined timing before the start time of the occurrence of the power failure If the user has not confirmed the notification or has not indicated the intention, the hydrogen generator is activated before the start of the power outage in preparation for a power outage. The situation where the hydrogen generator cannot be operated when a power failure occurs can be avoided.

  According to a fifth aspect of the invention, in particular, the controller according to the first or second aspect of the present invention is configured to display a power outage by displaying or sounding the power outage occurrence information input from the outside where the occurrence of the power outage is predicted before starting the starting process. When a notification is given as a preliminary announcement and an activation disapproval is input for the notification, or an activation permission is not input for the notification until a predetermined time has elapsed since the notification, the power failure Controls not to start the startup process at a predetermined timing before the start time of occurrence, and it is possible to eliminate unnecessary startup when the user does not need to operate the hydrogen generator when a power failure occurs .

In particular, the sixth invention relates to the hydrogen generator of any one of the first to fifth inventions, and a fuel cell that generates electricity by reacting the hydrogen-containing gas generated by the hydrogen generator and an oxidant gas. The fuel cell system is configured such that at least a part of the electric power generated by the fuel cell can be used for continued operation.

  As a result, the startup process of the fuel cell system can be completed and hydrogen can be generated before the occurrence of a power failure, so the power generated by the fuel cell system from the beginning of the power failure can be used without providing a power supply for independent startup. be able to.

  In a seventh aspect of the invention, in particular, the controller according to the sixth aspect of the invention controls the fuel cell to start power generation after the hydrogen generator has finished the startup process. When the start-up process is completed and hydrogen can be generated, power generation is started using the hydrogen in the fuel cell, and power generation can be continued in the fuel cell system even if a power failure occurs.

  According to an eighth aspect of the invention, in particular, the controller in the sixth aspect of the invention controls the fuel cell to start power generation at the timing of the occurrence of a power failure after the hydrogen generator finishes the startup process. Yes, after the start-up process of the hydrogen generator is completed and hydrogen can be generated, at the timing of the power failure, the fuel cell system uses the hydrogen to start power generation. Power generation can be continued.

  According to a ninth aspect of the invention, in particular, the controller according to the sixth aspect of the invention generates power in the fuel cell at a timing at which a power outage is predicted based on the power outage occurrence information after the hydrogen generator finishes the starting process. After the start-up process of the hydrogen generator is completed and hydrogen can be generated, the fuel cell should start power generation at the time when a power outage is expected from the power outage occurrence information. Thus, power generation can be continued in the fuel cell system when a power failure occurs.

  In a tenth aspect of the invention, in particular, the controller in any of the sixth to ninth aspects of the invention controls to output the electric power generated by the fuel cell to the outside of the fuel cell system, Even without a self-starting power source, the power generated by the fuel cell system when a power failure occurs can be used.

  In an eleventh aspect of the invention, in particular, the controller in any of the sixth to ninth aspects of the invention controls to output the electric power generated by the fuel cell to the outside of the fuel cell system at the timing of a power failure. Therefore, the power generated by the fuel cell system when a power failure occurs can be used without providing a self-starting power source.

  In a twelfth aspect of the invention, in particular, the controller according to any one of the sixth to ninth aspects of the invention generates power generated by the fuel cell at a timing at which a power outage is predicted based on the power outage occurrence information. The control is performed so that the power is output to the outside of the system, and the power generated by the fuel cell system when a power failure occurs can be used without providing a self-starting power source.

  A thirteenth aspect of the invention includes, in addition to any of the sixth to ninth aspects of the invention, a timer for instructing a time to start outputting power to the outside, and the controller is at a time indicated by the timer. The power generated by the fuel cell is output to the outside of the fuel cell system, and the power generated by the fuel cell system can be used from a predetermined timing indicated by a timer. it can.

In a fourteenth aspect of the invention, in particular, the power generated by the fuel cell is generated at the power generation output timing determined before the controller in any of the sixth to ninth aspects of the invention receives the power failure occurrence information. The power is controlled to be output to the outside of the fuel cell system, and the power generated by the fuel cell system can be used from the timing determined before receiving the power failure occurrence information.

  In particular, the fifteenth aspect of the invention includes, in addition to any of the sixth to ninth aspects of the invention, a hot water storage tank that stores heat generated from the fuel cell, and the controller stores the amount of heat stored in the hot water storage tank. Is controlled to output the electric power generated by the fuel cell to the outside of the fuel cell system when the fuel cell is reduced to a predetermined value or less, and depending on the amount of heat stored in the hot water storage tank, The timing of starting power generation and outputting power to the outside can be changed.

  The sixteenth invention, in particular, in addition to any one of the sixth to ninth inventions, further comprises a notification device for notifying when external output of electric power becomes possible, wherein the controller is a step of starting the hydrogen generator. When the operation is terminated, control is performed so as to notify that the external output of electric power is possible by the notification device, and the user can know that the fuel cell can generate power.

  According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a reformer that reforms a raw material containing a hydrocarbon component to generate a hydrogen-containing gas, and combusts at least one of the raw material and the hydrogen-containing gas to form the reformer. A hydrogen generator operating method comprising: a combustor that heats a raw material; and a raw material supplier that supplies the raw material to the reformer. Based on this, the step of starting activation at a predetermined timing before the start time of the planned power outage so that the start-up process is completed at the start time of the power outage and the hydrogen-containing gas is supplied to the outside. It is provided.

  As a result, since the hydrogen-containing gas can be supplied to the outside after the start-up process of the hydrogen generator before the power failure occurs, the power supply from the fuel cell that generates power using the hydrogen supplied from the hydrogen generator is received. If it is possible, hydrogen can be supplied from the hydrogen generator from the start of the power outage without providing a self-starting power source.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the present embodiment.

(Embodiment 1)
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of a hydrogen generator according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the hydrogen generator 100 of the present embodiment includes a reformer 1, a raw material supplier 2, a reformed water supplier 3, a combustor 4, an air supplier 5, and a frame. Rod 6, reforming temperature detector 7, first sealer 8, first path 9, second sealer 10, second path 11, third sealer 12, and third A path 13, a CO remover 20, a CO remover temperature detector 21, a CO remover heater 22, a controller 30, a system power supply 31, and an external information input device 32 are provided.

  The reformer 1 uses a raw material and steam to generate a hydrogen-containing gas by a reforming reaction. As the raw material, city gas is used in the present embodiment. City gas refers to LNG gas supplied from a gas company to each household through piping. For example, natural gas or LP gas supplied through a pipeline may be used as long as it contains an organic compound containing carbon and hydrogen as constituent elements.

In the reforming reaction of the present embodiment, steam reforming in which the raw material and steam are reacted is used. Any reforming reaction may be used as long as it is a reaction in which a hydrogen-containing gas is generated from the raw material and water vapor, an autothermal reaction in which air is added to the raw material and water vapor, or a partial oxidation reaction in which the raw material and air are reacted. But you can. The hydrogen-containing gas generated in the reformer 1 is supplied to the hydrogen utilization device 150 via the first path 9.

  Further, when the hydrogen-containing gas is not supplied to the hydrogen utilization device 150, the hydrogen-containing gas is supplied to the combustor 4 via the second path 11. Further, surplus hydrogen-containing gas that is not used in the hydrogen-using device 150 is supplied to the combustor 4 via the third path 13. In each path, a first sealer 8, a second sealer 10, and a third sealer 12 are provided, and the gas supply destination can be switched by them.

  A reforming catalyst (not shown) is mounted inside the reformer 1. The raw material supplier 2 supplies the raw material to the reformer 1. The raw material supplier 2 is a booster. The raw material supplier 2 may be a flow rate adjustment valve. The reforming water supplier 3 supplies the reforming water to the reformer 1. The reforming water supplier 3 is a pump that adjusts the flow rate of the reforming water. The reforming water supplier 3 may be a flow rate adjustment valve.

  The combustor 4 heats the reformer 1. As a fuel for the combustor 4, a hydrogen-containing gas discharged from the reformer 1 is usually used. The hydrogen-containing gas supplied to the combustor 4 is discharged from the hydrogen using device 150 via the hydrogen using device 150 and supplied to the combustor 4. Note that the hydrogen-containing gas may be directly supplied from the reformer 1 to the combustor 4. In the combustor 4, even if the raw material is added to the hydrogen-containing gas and burned, only the raw material may be supplied without supplying the hydrogen-containing gas.

  The air supplier 5 is a fan that supplies combustion air to the combustor 4. Note that a pump may be used for the air supply unit 5. Further, the controller 30 controls the operation of the hydrogen generator 100 based on the set target value.

  The controller 30 includes an arithmetic processing unit (not shown) and a storage unit (not shown) that stores a control program. The controller 30 may be any control device capable of controlling the whole or a part of the hydrogen generator 100 as long as it has a control function. In addition, examples of the arithmetic processing unit include an MPU and a CPU. A memory is exemplified as the storage unit.

  The controller 30 may be a single controller or a plurality of controllers. That is, each of the controllers 30 may be configured by a single controller that performs centralized control, or may be configured by a plurality of controllers that perform distributed control in cooperation with each other. This also applies to controllers of other embodiments described later.

  The hydrogen using device 150 is a device that uses hydrogen and is a solid polymer fuel cell. The hydrogen utilization device 150 may be a solid oxide fuel cell or the like. The hydrogen utilization device 150 may be any device as long as it can generate power using hydrogen.

  The system power supply 31 is a power supply supplied to a general home etc. from a commercial distribution network. During the start-up process in which the hydrogen generator 100 is started, the system power supply 31 is used to obtain power for driving the auxiliary equipment such as the raw material supplier 2, the reforming water supplier 3, and the CO remover heater 22. Use the power supply. The external information input device 32 is used to input power failure occurrence information that is predicted to cause a power failure to the controller 30.

  The operation and action of the hydrogen generator 100 of the present embodiment configured as described above will be described below. The following operation is performed by the controller 30 controlling the hydrogen generator 100.

When the hydrogen generator 100 is activated, combustion in the combustor 4 is started. At this time, the first sealer 8 is closed, but the combustion fuel gas path from the second path 11 to the combustor 4 is in a gas-venting state. Therefore, when the raw material is supplied to the reformer 1 by the start of the operation of the raw material supplier 2, the raw material that has passed through the reformer 1 is supplied to the combustor 4 using the combustion fuel gas path.

  At the same time, combustion air is supplied to the combustor 4 when the operation of the air supply device 5 starts. In the combustor 4, an ignition operation is performed by an ignition electrode (not shown), and the raw material is combusted using combustion air. In this way, the reformer 1 is heated by the combustion heat supplied from the combustor 4. The combustion in the combustor 4 is detected by the frame rod 6.

  Next, the reforming water is supplied to the reformer 1 by starting the operation of the reforming water supplier 3. Next, when the composition of the hydrogen-containing gas generated in the reformer 1 becomes a composition suitable for supply to the hydrogen-using device 150, the hydrogen-containing gas is supplied to the hydrogen-using device 150.

  Note that the supply of the hydrogen-containing gas to the hydrogen-using device 150 may be after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the start-up process, or it has been detected that the temperature of the reforming temperature detector 7 has reached a predetermined value. It may be later.

  FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the hydrogen generator 100 according to the first embodiment. In the present embodiment, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 2, first, a power failure start time Ta (10:00 am), which is a time when a power failure occurs, is input to the controller 30 from the external information input device 32 (S101). .

  Next, the time (5 hours) from the current time T (5 am) to the power outage start time Ta is the time required to complete the start-up process of the hydrogen generator 100 (starting time Ts (1 hour)). It is determined whether it is longer (S102).

  As a result of the determination, if the time from the current time T to the power failure start time Ta is longer than the start time Ts, which is the time required to end the start-up process of the hydrogen generator 100, the start start time T1 (AM 8:30) is set (S103). Here, the activation start time T1 may be earlier than the time obtained by subtracting the activation time Ts from the power outage start time Ta, but may be set to an earlier time with a margin if necessary. In this embodiment, the time is set 30 minutes earlier.

  Next, when the current time reaches the start start time T1 (8:30 am) and the hydrogen generator 100 is in a stopped state (S104 branches to Yes), the start process is started (S105). .

  On the other hand, in S102, when the time from the current time T to the power failure start time Ta is shorter than the start-up time Ts, which is the time required to end the start-up process of the hydrogen generator (when the hydrogen generator 100 is in a stopped state). In the case), it is predicted that a power failure will occur in the middle of the startup process, and thus the startup is not started and the process is terminated.

  As mentioned above, according to this Embodiment, since the starting process of the hydrogen generator 100 is complete | finished before a power failure start, hydrogen can be utilized from the time of a power failure start.

  In addition, by the automatic driving | operation (automatic starting) based on the driving | operation plan formulated beforehand, when the hydrogen generating apparatus 100 has already started the starting process at the time of starting start time T1 (8:30 am), and already Of course, in the case where either the start process has been completed or the supply of the hydrogen-containing gas to the hydrogen utilization device 150 has already started, the current time is naturally the start start time T1 (8:30 am) It is assumed that the control (S105) for starting the start-up process is not performed at the point of time when the value reaches.

  In addition, since the manual activation was performed before the activation start time T1 (8:30 am), the hydrogen generator 100 was already in the activation process at the activation start time T1 (8:30 am). The current time is the start start time T1 (8:30 AM) in either case, the start process has already been completed, or the supply of the hydrogen-containing gas to the hydrogen using device 150 has already started. It is assumed that the control (S105) for starting the start-up process is not performed when reaching (min).

  In this embodiment, the current time T when the power failure start time Ta is 10:00 am and the power failure start time is input to the controller 30 from the external information input device 32 is 5 am and 5 am. The time up to the power outage start time Ta is 5 hours, the start time Ts that is a time necessary for completing the start-up process of the hydrogen generator 100 is 1 hour, and the start time T1 is 8:30 am. Of course, this is not a limitation.

  The power failure occurrence information in the present embodiment is the start time of a planned power failure (also referred to as a rotary power failure or a warning power failure) obtained from an electric power company. The power outage occurrence information may be alarm information such as an earthquake, lightning, or typhoon.In this case, if the time cannot be completely specified, the statistical information etc. Use and decide and set.

  In the present embodiment, the start-up process is such that the hydrogen generating apparatus 100 can generate the hydrogen-containing gas after the hydrogen generating apparatus 100 starts to move in order to generate the hydrogen-containing gas in the hydrogen generating apparatus 100. This is the operation of the hydrogen generation apparatus 100 until the time. Starting the starting process means starting the operation of the hydrogen generator 100, which represents the same thing as starting or starting.

(Embodiment 2)
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of the fuel cell system according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the configuration of the fuel cell system 200 according to the second embodiment includes a fuel cell 160 instead of the hydrogen utilization device 150 according to the first embodiment, and includes a terminal 33. The configuration of the hydrogen generator 100 that configures the fuel cell system 200 in combination with the battery 160 is the same as the configuration of the hydrogen generator 100 in the first embodiment.

  The terminal 33 includes an operation unit that outputs information by display or sound and performs a predetermined operation, and is a remote controller in the present embodiment. Note that a device such as a smartphone or a television may be used as long as the device can be displayed and operated and can be connected to the fuel cell system 200 by wire or wirelessly. Hereinafter, a description will be given focusing on differences from the first embodiment.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the fuel cell system 200 in the second embodiment. In the present embodiment, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 4, first, a power failure start time Ta (10:00 am), which is a time when a power failure occurs, is input to the controller 30 from the external information input device 32 (S201). .

  Next, the time (5 hours) from the current time T (5 am) to the power outage start time Ta is the time required to complete the start-up process of the hydrogen generator 100 (starting time Ts (1 hour)). It is determined whether it is longer (S202).

  As a result of the determination, if the time from the current time T to the power failure start time Ta is longer than the start time Ts, which is the time required to end the start-up process of the hydrogen generator 100, the start start time T1 (AM 8:30) is set (S203). Next, a power failure notice is displayed on the terminal 33 (S204).

  Next, when the current time reaches the start start time T1 (8:30 am) and the hydrogen generator 100 is in a stopped state (S205 branches to Yes), an input of start permission is received at the terminal 33. (S206), and if the activation permission is input, the activation is started (S207). On the other hand, if the activation permission is not input, the activation is not performed and the process is terminated.

  In S202, if the time from the current time T to the power failure start time Ta is shorter than the start time Ts, which is the time required for starting the hydrogen generator 100, a power failure occurs during the start. It does not start and ends.

  Power outage occurrence information is alarm information such as earthquakes, lightning, typhoons, etc., and since the time cannot be completely specified, the time at which the power outage will most likely occur from the occurrence of the alarm is determined in advance using statistical information etc. doing. The power failure occurrence information may be the start time of a planned power failure (also referred to as a rotary power failure or a warning power failure) obtained from an electric power company.

  Note that if the terminal 33 is not permitted to start up after the power failure notice is displayed on the terminal 33 in S204 and before it is determined whether or not the terminal 33 has been input of start permission in S206. May be terminated without starting.

  It should be noted that neither start permission nor start permission is input to the terminal 33 after the power failure notice is displayed on the terminal 33 in S204 until it is determined whether the start permission is input in the terminal 33 in S206. If not, it may be terminated without starting.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, it can be activated only when the user needs to operate the fuel cell system 200 when a power failure occurs. The case where the user does not need to operate the fuel cell system 200 when a power failure occurs includes a case where the user evacuates according to a typhoon alarm or travels according to a planned power failure.

(Embodiment 3)
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of the fuel cell system according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

  The configuration of the fuel cell system 200 according to Embodiment 3 is the same as that of Embodiment 2 shown in FIG. 3, but the control method of the controller 30 is different from that of Embodiment 2. Hereinafter, a description will be given focusing on differences from the second embodiment.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the fuel cell system 200 in the third embodiment. In the present embodiment, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 5, first, the power failure start time Ta (10:00 am), which is the time at which a power failure occurs, is input from the external information input device 32 to the controller 30 (S301). .

  Next, the time (5 hours) from the current time T (5 am) to the power outage start time Ta is the time required to complete the start-up process of the hydrogen generator 100 (starting time Ts (1 hour)). It is determined whether it is longer (S302).

  As a result of the determination, if the time from the current time T to the power failure start time Ta is longer than the start time Ts, which is the time required to end the start-up process of the hydrogen generator 100, the start start time T1 (AM 8:30) is set (S303). Next, a power failure notice is displayed on the terminal 33 (S304).

  Next, when the current time reaches the start start time T1 (8:30 am) and the hydrogen generator 100 is in a stopped state (branch S305 to Yes side), an input indicating that start is not permitted is input at the terminal 33. Is determined (S306), and if the activation not permitted is input, the process is terminated without starting. On the other hand, if the activation non-permission is not input, the activation is started (S307).

  In S302, if the time from the current time T to the power failure start time Ta is shorter than the startup time Ts, which is the time required to complete the startup process of the hydrogen generator, a power failure occurs during startup. Therefore, it does not start and ends.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, when the user does not need to operate the fuel cell system 200 in the event of a power failure, it is possible to prevent unnecessary activation. In addition, when it is unclear whether the user needs to operate the fuel cell system 200 when a power failure occurs, the fuel cell system 200 is activated to avoid a situation where the user cannot use power when a power failure occurs. it can.

(Embodiment 4)
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of the fuel cell system according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention.

  The configuration of the fuel cell system 200 according to Embodiment 4 is the same as that of Embodiment 2 shown in FIG. 3, but the control method of the controller 30 is different from that of Embodiment 2. Hereinafter, a description will be given focusing on differences from the second embodiment.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the fuel cell system 200 according to the fourth embodiment. In the present embodiment, first, the start-up process of the hydrogen generator 100 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the second embodiment shown in FIG. 4, or the third embodiment shown in FIG. 5 is started. Similar to the timing, the startup process of the hydrogen generator 100 is started so that the startup process of the hydrogen generator 100 can be completed before the occurrence of a power failure.

  Next, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 6, the start-up process of the hydrogen generator 100 is terminated, and it is determined whether the hydrogen generator 100 is in a state in which the hydrogen-containing gas can be supplied to the fuel cell 160 (S401). Next, if a hydrogen-containing gas can be generated by the hydrogen generator 100, the fuel cell 160 starts power generation using the hydrogen-containing gas.

  In this step, the fuel cell 160 generates only power consumed within the fuel cell system 200 (S402). Next, the electric power generated by the fuel cell 160 is output to the outside of the fuel cell system 200 so that the electric power can be used (S403).

  In this embodiment, the time taken to shift to S402 after the hydrogen generating apparatus 100 can generate the hydrogen-containing gas in S401 is several seconds to several tens of seconds, but the fuel cell system 200 Since the gas moving time differs depending on the configuration, it may be set appropriately according to the configuration.

  If the time for shifting from S401 to S402 is shortened, the hydrogen-containing gas generated by the hydrogen generator 100 can be used for power generation in the fuel cell 160 without waste, so it is desirable to set the transition time as short as possible. .

Further, in this embodiment, the time from the start of power generation in the fuel cell 160 in S402 to the transition to S403 and output to the outside of the fuel cell system 200 is set to about 3 seconds in this embodiment. Since the time for switching the power supply destination varies depending on the configuration of the system 200, it may be set appropriately according to the configuration.

  In addition, if the time to shift from S402 to S403 is shortened, the electric power generated by the fuel cell 160 can be supplied to the outside of the fuel cell system 200 without waste, so the electric power is required outside the fuel cell system 200. In this case, it is desirable to set the transition time as short as possible.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the case where it is desired to output power to the outside as soon as possible from the fuel cell system 200 has been described, but depending on the operating state of the fuel cell system 200 and the situation of power demand outside the fuel cell system 200. Since the timing required for the start of power generation in the fuel cell 160 and the start of power supply from the fuel cell system 200 to the outside differs, the timing may be determined according to the situation.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, when hydrogen-containing gas can be generated by the hydrogen generator 100, the hydrogen-containing gas is used for power generation in the fuel cell 160 without wasting it. Electric power can be supplied to the outside of the fuel cell system 200.

(Embodiment 5)
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of a fuel cell system according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention.

  The configuration of fuel cell system 200 according to Embodiment 5 is the same as that of Embodiment 2 shown in FIG. 3, but the control method of controller 30 is different from that of Embodiment 2. Hereinafter, a description will be given focusing on differences from the second embodiment.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the fuel cell system 200 according to the fifth embodiment. In the present embodiment, first, the start-up process of the hydrogen generator 100 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the second embodiment shown in FIG. 4, or the third embodiment shown in FIG. 5 is started. Similar to the timing, the startup process of the hydrogen generator 100 is started so that the startup process of the hydrogen generator 100 can be completed before the occurrence of a power failure.

  Next, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 7, the start-up process of the hydrogen generator 100 is terminated, and it is determined whether the hydrogen generator 100 is in a state in which the hydrogen-containing gas can be supplied to the fuel cell 160 (S501). Next, if hydrogen-containing gas can be generated by the hydrogen generator 100, the fuel cell 160 starts power generation using the hydrogen-containing gas.

  In this step, the fuel cell 160 generates only power consumed in the fuel cell system 200 (S502). Next, it is determined whether the power supply from the system power supply 31 is interrupted and a power failure occurs (S503). Next, if it is determined that the power supply from the system power supply 31 has been interrupted and a power failure has occurred, the power generated by the fuel cell 160 is output to the outside of the fuel cell system 200 to make the power available (S504). .

  The fuel cell system 200 can operate the fuel cell system 200 using the generated electric power by generating power in the fuel cell 160 from when the hydrogen generator 100 can generate the hydrogen-containing gas. Therefore, it is possible to continue the power generation in the fuel cell system 200 even without power supply from the system power supply 31.

While waiting for the system power supply 31 to fail in S503, the power generated by the fuel cell 160 is consumed in the fuel cell system 200. As a method of consuming electric power, the fuel cell system 200 may be used as driving power for auxiliary parts necessary for operating the fuel cell system 200. The generated electric power is converted into thermal energy by a heater or the like, and the fuel cell system is used. You may store in the apparatus (not shown) which stores thermal energy with hot water, such as the hot water storage tank separately installed in 200. FIG. As long as there is no hindrance to the operation of the fuel cell system 200, the generated power may be consumed by any means.

  In addition, the shorter the time from the power failure of the system power supply 31 to the supply of power to the outside of the fuel cell system 200 is, the shorter the user can use the power without interruption even when a power failure occurs.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, when a power failure occurs, power can be supplied to the outside of the fuel cell system 200 while power generation in the fuel cell system 200 is continued.

(Embodiment 6)
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of the fuel cell system according to Embodiment 6 of the present invention.

  The configuration of the fuel cell system 200 according to Embodiment 6 is the same as that of Embodiment 2 shown in FIG. 3, but the control method of the controller 30 is different from that of Embodiment 2. Hereinafter, a description will be given focusing on differences from the second embodiment.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the fuel cell system 200 in the sixth embodiment. In the present embodiment, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 8, first, a power failure start time Ta, which is a time when a power failure occurs, is input from the external information input device 32 to the controller 30 (S601).

  Next, similarly to the start-up process start timing of the hydrogen generator 100 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the second embodiment shown in FIG. 4, or the third embodiment shown in FIG. The startup process of the hydrogen generator 100 is started so that the startup process of the hydrogen generator 100 can be completed before the occurrence of a power failure.

  Next, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 8, the start-up process of the hydrogen generator 100 is terminated, and it is determined whether the hydrogen generator 100 is in a state where hydrogen-containing gas can be supplied to the fuel cell 160 (S602).

  Next, it is determined whether the current time has reached the power failure start time Ta (S603). Next, when the current time reaches the power failure start time Ta, the fuel cell 160 starts power generation using the hydrogen-containing gas (S604).

  Next, it is determined whether the current time has reached the power failure start time Ta (S605). Next, if the current time reaches the power failure start time Ta, the power generated by the fuel cell 160 is output to the outside of the fuel cell system 200, and the power can be used (S606).

  In the present embodiment, since the conditions for starting power generation and the conditions for outputting power to the outside of the fuel cell system 200 are the same, the power is output to the outside immediately after starting power generation.

In addition, S605 is changed to the step which determines whether the power supply from the system power supply 31 is interrupted and a power failure has occurred, or S603 is a step to determine whether the current time has reached several minutes before the power failure start time Ta. You can change it.

  If the conditions for starting power generation are satisfied after satisfying the conditions for starting power generation by changing the determination step in this manner, in S604 (until the process proceeds to S606) In the meantime, the fuel cell 160 generates only the electric power consumed inside the fuel cell system 200.

  In addition, when an actual power failure occurs earlier than the power failure start time Ta, which is the time at which a power failure occurs, which is instructed from the external information input device 32, the fuel cell 160 contains as much hydrogen as possible when the actual power failure occurs. It is desirable to start power generation using gas. By doing so, it becomes possible to continue the operation of the fuel cell system 200 even when a power failure occurs.

  If the fuel cell system 200 has a device that recovers heat generated during power generation by the fuel cell 160 and stores it in a hot water storage tank (not shown), hot water is stored in the hot water storage tank when the power generation is continued. In the fuel cell system 200 in which the operation of the fuel cell system 200 is stopped when the heat storage capacity exceeds the maximum power storage capacity, the power generation by the fuel cell 160 is not performed immediately after S602, but the power failure start time Ta as in S603. Wait until power generation starts.

  In this case, it is possible to reduce the amount of heat stored in the hot water storage tank without generating thermal energy accompanying power generation from the fuel cell 160 immediately after the start-up process. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the fuel cell system 200 from being stopped beyond the amount of heat that can be stored in the hot water storage tank.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, power generation in the fuel cell system 200 can be started and power can be supplied to the outside of the fuel cell system 200 at the timing when the occurrence of the power failure is predicted. Sometimes stable power can be supplied.

(Embodiment 7)
FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of the fuel cell system according to Embodiment 7 of the present invention.

  The configuration of the fuel cell system 200 according to Embodiment 7 is obtained by adding a timer 34 to the configuration of the fuel cell system 200 of Embodiment 2 shown in FIG. Different from Form 2. Hereinafter, a description will be given focusing on differences from the second embodiment.

  The timer 34 indicates a time for outputting the electric power generated by the fuel cell 160 to the outside of the fuel cell system 200. The timer 34 may be capable of inputting a time desired by the user, or may be one instructed by the fuel cell system 200 based on an operation state, a power failure occurrence time, or the like. The timer 34 has means for transmitting to the controller 30 the time to start outputting power to the outside.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the fuel cell system 200 according to the seventh embodiment. In the present embodiment, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 10, first, from the external information input device 32, the power outage start time Ta, which is the time at which a power outage occurs, is sent to the controller 30 and the timer 34 from the power external output start time. Tb is input to the controller 30 (S701).

  Next, similarly to the start-up process start timing of the hydrogen generator 100 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the second embodiment shown in FIG. 4, or the third embodiment shown in FIG. The startup process of the hydrogen generator 100 is started so that the startup process of the hydrogen generator 100 can be completed before the occurrence of a power failure.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 10, the start-up process of the hydrogen generator 100 is finished, and it is determined whether the hydrogen generator 100 is in a state in which the hydrogen-containing gas can be supplied to the fuel cell 160 (S702). Next, it is determined whether the current time has reached the power failure start time Ta (S703). When the current time reaches the power failure start time Ta, the fuel cell 160 starts power generation using the hydrogen-containing gas.

  In this step, the fuel cell 160 generates only power consumed within the fuel cell system 200 (S704). Next, it is determined whether the current time has reached the power external output start time Tb (S705). If the current time reaches the power external output start time Tb, the power generated by the fuel cell 160 is output to the outside of the fuel cell system 200, and the power can be used (S706).

  When an actual power failure occurs earlier than the power external output start time Tb instructed by the timer 34, power output to the outside of the fuel cell system 200 may be started when the actual power failure occurs. .

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, power can be supplied to the outside of the fuel cell system 200 at a predetermined time indicated by the timer 34.

(Embodiment 8)
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of the fuel cell system according to Embodiment 8 of the present invention.

  The configuration of fuel cell system 200 according to Embodiment 8 is the same as that of Embodiment 2 shown in FIG. 3, but the control method of controller 30 is different from that of Embodiment 2. Hereinafter, a description will be given focusing on differences from the second embodiment.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the fuel cell system in the eighth embodiment. In the present embodiment, first, the start-up process of the hydrogen generator 100 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the second embodiment shown in FIG. 4, or the third embodiment shown in FIG. 5 is started. Similar to the timing, the startup process of the hydrogen generator 100 is started so that the startup process of the hydrogen generator 100 can be completed before the occurrence of a power failure.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 11, the start-up process of the hydrogen generator 100 is terminated, and it is determined whether the hydrogen generator 100 is in a state in which the hydrogen-containing gas can be supplied to the fuel cell 160 (S801). If the hydrogen-containing gas can be generated by the hydrogen generator 100, it is next determined whether the power supply from the system power supply 31 is interrupted and a power failure has occurred (S802).

  Next, if it is determined that the power supply from the system power supply 31 has been interrupted and a power failure has occurred, the fuel cell 160 starts power generation using the hydrogen-containing gas. In this step, the fuel cell 160 generates only power consumed within the fuel cell system 200 (S803).

  Next, it is determined whether the current time has reached the predetermined time Tc (S804). If the current time reaches the pre-determined time Tc, the power generated by the fuel cell 160 is output to the outside of the fuel cell system 200 so that the power can be used (S805).

  Note that the pre-determined time Tc is the power generation output timing that was determined before the controller 30 received the power failure occurrence information. Control is performed so as not to change the timing of outputting power to the outside of the fuel cell system 200 even when power failure occurrence information is received.

  In addition, if power generation in the fuel cell 160 is not performed immediately after the occurrence of a power failure, the power supply to the fuel cell system 200 is interrupted and operation cannot be continued. If a power failure is detected, the process immediately proceeds to S803. There is a need to. In order to stabilize the transition from the occurrence of a power failure to the start of power generation in the fuel cell 160, it is desirable that the fuel cell system 200 has a device that can temporarily supplement power, such as a capacitor or an auxiliary battery.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, even when a power failure occurs, power can be supplied to the outside of the fuel cell system 200 at the power output timing set before receiving the power failure occurrence information. it can.

(Embodiment 9)
FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of the fuel cell system according to Embodiment 9 of the present invention.

  The configuration of the fuel cell system 200 according to Embodiment 9 is obtained by adding a hot water storage tank 170 and an alarm 35 to the configuration of the fuel cell system 200 of Embodiment 2 shown in FIG. The method is different from the second embodiment. Hereinafter, a description will be given focusing on differences from the second embodiment.

  The hot water storage tank 170 collects the thermal energy generated when the fuel cell 160 generates power with water and stores it as high-temperature water. Water may be directly supplied to the fuel cell 160 from the hot water storage tank 170 to recover the heat energy. By using a heat exchanger or the like, a refrigerant path that circulates between the fuel cell 160 and the heat exchanger, Heat exchange with the water path circulating between the tank 170 and the heat exchanger may be performed by the heat exchanger.

  In the hot water storage tank 170, low temperature water is taken out from below the hot water storage tank 170, the thermal energy of the fuel cell 160 is recovered with the water, and the hot water is returned to the upper part of the hot water storage tank 170, It is common to store thermal energy in The user can use the stored thermal energy for hot water supply or floor heating.

  Here, if the thermal energy recovered from the fuel cell 160 exceeds the thermal energy utilized from the hot water storage tank 170, the hot water storage tank 170 will be filled with high-temperature water. In such a case, the heat energy generated in the fuel cell 160 cannot be recovered by the water in the hot water storage tank 170, the temperature of the fuel cell 160 rises, and the fuel cell 160 deteriorates or breaks down. End up.

  In order to prevent such a situation, in the fuel cell system 200 that recovers the thermal energy of the fuel cell 160 with the water in the hot water storage tank 170, when the hot water storage tank 170 is filled with hot water, the fuel cell system 200. It is common to stop the operation.

  In addition, in order to check how hot water is stored in the hot water storage tank 170, the hot water storage tank 170 is provided with a plurality of temperature sensors (not shown). The amount of heat stored in the hot water storage tank 170 can be obtained from the position and temperature of each part temperature sensor.

  The notification device 35 outputs information by display or sound, and when the hydrogen generator 100 can supply the hydrogen-containing gas to the fuel cell 160 or when the fuel cell 160 starts power generation. Informing that the electric power can be output to the outside of the fuel cell system 200. The alarm device 35 may be installed as a display device or a speaker, or the terminal 33 may be used.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the fuel cell system in the ninth embodiment. In the present embodiment, first, the start-up process of the hydrogen generator 100 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the second embodiment shown in FIG. 4, or the third embodiment shown in FIG. 5 is started. Similar to the timing, the startup process of the hydrogen generator 100 is started so that the startup process of the hydrogen generator 100 can be completed before the occurrence of a power failure.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 13, the start-up process of the hydrogen generator 100 is terminated, and it is determined whether the hydrogen generator 100 is in a state in which the hydrogen-containing gas can be supplied to the fuel cell 160 (S901). Next, when the hydrogen generator 100 can supply the hydrogen-containing gas to the fuel cell 160, the notification device 35 is used to notify that the power can be output to the outside of the fuel cell system 200 ( S902).

  Next, it is determined whether the power supply from the system power supply 31 is interrupted and a power failure occurs (S903). Next, if it is determined that the power supply from the system power supply 31 has been interrupted and a power failure has occurred, the fuel cell 160 starts power generation using the hydrogen-containing gas. In this step, the fuel cell 160 generates only the electric power consumed inside the fuel cell system 200 (S904).

  Next, it is determined whether the heat storage amount of the hot water stored in the hot water storage tank 170 is equal to or less than Q1 (S905). Next, when the amount of heat stored in the hot water storage tank 170 becomes equal to or less than Q1, the power generated by the fuel cell 160 is output to the outside of the fuel cell system 200, and the power can be used (S906).

  If hot water storage tank 170 is filled with hot water, it becomes necessary to stop the operation of fuel cell system 200 even when a power failure occurs. Once the operation is stopped, fuel cell system 200 is again connected during a power failure. It becomes impossible to move, and power supply to the outside of the fuel cell system 200 becomes impossible.

  Therefore, when the amount of heat exceeding a predetermined value is stored in the hot water storage tank 170, the amount of heat generated from the fuel cell 160 is suppressed until the heat energy is consumed, and the amount of heat generated from the fuel cell 160 is suppressed. It is desirable to increase the power generation amount when the heat storage amount becomes a predetermined value or less and output the electric power to the outside. In addition, when driving | running low electric power generation amount, it is desirable to generate only the electric power required for the driving | operation continuation of the fuel cell system 200. FIG.

  In the present embodiment, when the hydrogen generator 100 can supply the hydrogen-containing gas to the fuel cell 160 in S902, power is output to the outside of the fuel cell system 200 using the alarm 35. Announced that it was possible.

  This is because the time required for the fuel cell 160 to start power generation using the hydrogen-containing gas generated by the hydrogen generator 100 and to output the generated power to the outside of the fuel cell system 200 is a short time of several seconds to several tens of seconds. Therefore, when the hydrogen generator 100 can supply the hydrogen-containing gas to the fuel cell 160, even if it is notified that power can be output to the outside of the fuel cell system 200, the user does not feel uncomfortable. Because.

  If the fuel cell 160 starts generating power using the hydrogen-containing gas generated by the hydrogen generator 100, it takes several minutes to several tens of minutes until the generated power is output to the outside of the fuel cell system 200. Then, the timing notified by the notification device 35 is preferably the timing when the fuel cell 160 starts power generation using the hydrogen-containing gas generated by the hydrogen generator 100.

  Furthermore, the heat storage amount Q1 of the hot water storage tank 170 for determining whether to output electric power to the outside of the fuel cell system 200 also varies depending on the capacity of the hot water storage tank 170 and the amount of heat generated from the fuel cell 160. What is necessary is just to set according to a structure and performance.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the fuel cell system 200 notifies the outside whether power can be output, and prevents the hot water storage tank 170 from being filled with hot water and shutting down. Power can be supplied to the outside of 200.

  From the foregoing description, many modifications and other embodiments of the present invention are apparent to persons skilled in the art. Accordingly, the foregoing description should be construed as illustrative only and is provided for the purpose of teaching those skilled in the art the best mode of carrying out the invention. The details of the structure and / or function may be substantially changed without departing from the spirit of the invention.

  As described above, the hydrogen generator, the operation method thereof, and the fuel cell system according to the present invention can be started even when there is no power supply from the system power supply and there is no power supply for independent start-up. It can also be applied to applications where it is desired to generate power during a power outage, such as household fuel cell cogeneration systems.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Reformer 2 Raw material supply device 3 Reformed water supply device 4 Combustor 5 Air supply device 6 Frame rod 7 Reforming temperature detector 8 First seal device 9 First path 10 Second seal device 11 Second route DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 12 3rd sealing device 13 3rd path | route 20 CO removal device 21 CO removal device temperature detector 22 CO removal device heater 30 Controller 31 System power supply 32 External information input device 33 Terminal 34 Timer 35 Notification device 100 Hydrogen generating device 150 Hydrogen using equipment 160 Fuel cell 170 Hot water storage tank 200 Fuel cell system

Claims (17)

A reformer that generates a hydrogen-containing gas by reforming a raw material containing a hydrocarbon component;
A combustor that burns at least one of the raw material and the hydrogen-containing gas to heat the reformer;
A raw material supplier for supplying the raw material to the reformer;
Based on the power outage occurrence information input from the outside that is predicted to generate a power outage, the start of the power outage is completed at the start time of the power outage so that the hydrogen-containing gas is supplied to the outside. And a controller that starts the starting process at a predetermined timing before the start time.   The hydrogen generation apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the power failure occurrence information input from the outside where the occurrence of the power failure is predicted is time information of a planned power failure.   The controller notifies the power failure occurrence information input from the outside where the occurrence of the power failure is predicted as a power failure warning by display or voice before starting the activation process, and activation permission is input for the notification. The hydrogen generator according to claim 1, wherein the start-up process is controlled at a predetermined timing before the start time of occurrence of the power failure.   The controller notifies the power failure occurrence information input from the outside where the occurrence of the power failure is predicted, as a power failure notice by display or voice before starting the starting process, and until a predetermined time has elapsed from the notification. 3. The hydrogen generator according to claim 1, wherein the start-up process is controlled to be started at a predetermined timing before the start time of the occurrence of the power failure when the start-up disapproval is not input for the notification.   The controller notifies the power failure occurrence information input from the outside where the occurrence of the power failure is predicted, as a power failure notice by display or voice before starting the activation process, and the activation disapproval input for the notification If the activation permission is not input for the notification until a predetermined time elapses after the notification, the activation process is not started at a predetermined timing before the start time of the occurrence of the power failure. The hydrogen generator according to claim 1 or 2, which is controlled as described above. A hydrogen generator according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
A fuel cell that generates electricity by reacting a hydrogen-containing gas generated by the hydrogen generator and an oxidant gas; and
And a fuel cell system configured to be able to use at least part of the electric power generated by the fuel cell for continued operation.   7. The fuel cell system according to claim 6, wherein the controller controls the fuel cell to start power generation after the hydrogen generator finishes the startup process.   The fuel cell system according to claim 6, wherein the controller controls the fuel cell to start power generation at the timing of a power failure after the hydrogen generator finishes the startup process.   7. The fuel cell according to claim 6, wherein the controller controls the fuel cell to start power generation at a timing at which a power outage is predicted based on the power outage occurrence information after the hydrogen generator finishes the startup process. system.   The fuel cell system according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the controller controls to output electric power generated by the fuel cell to the outside of the fuel cell system.   The fuel cell system according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the controller controls the power generated by the fuel cell to be output to the outside of the fuel cell system at the timing of occurrence of a power failure.   10. The controller according to claim 6, wherein the controller controls the power generated by the fuel cell to be output to the outside of the fuel cell system at a timing when a power failure is predicted based on the power failure occurrence information. The fuel cell system described in 1. With a timer that indicates the time to start outputting power to the outside,
10. The controller according to claim 6, wherein the controller controls the power generated by the fuel cell to be output to the outside of the fuel cell system when a time indicated by the timer is reached. Fuel cell system.   10. The controller according to claim 6, wherein the controller controls to output the power generated by the fuel cell to the outside of the fuel cell system at a power generation output timing determined before receiving the power failure occurrence information. The fuel cell system according to claim 1. A hot water storage tank for storing heat generated from the fuel cell;
The controller controls to output the electric power generated by the fuel cell to the outside of the fuel cell system when the amount of heat stored in the hot water storage tank falls below a predetermined value. The fuel cell system according to any one of the above. Equipped with a notification device to notify when external power output is possible,
The controller according to any one of claims 6 to 15, wherein the controller performs control so as to notify that the external output of electric power is possible by the alarm when the hydrogen generator has completed the startup process. Fuel cell system. A reformer that generates a hydrogen-containing gas by reforming a raw material containing a hydrocarbon component;
A combustor that burns at least one of the raw material and the hydrogen-containing gas to heat the reformer;
A raw material supplier for supplying the raw material to the reformer;
A method of operating a hydrogen generator comprising:
Based on the power outage occurrence information input from the outside where power outage is predicted, the start-up process is completed at the start time of the power outage and the hydrogen-containing gas is supplied to the outside. A method for operating a hydrogen generator, comprising a step of starting activation at a predetermined timing before a start time.

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