JP7354753B2 - energy storage device - Google Patents

Description

The present disclosure relates to energy storage devices.

The amount of power generated (hereinafter referred to as "generated power amount") and the amount of power demanded (hereinafter referred to as "demanded power amount") do not necessarily match. Therefore, there may be a surplus of power (generated power amount - demanded power amount > 0) or power may be required (generated power amount - demanded power amount < 0, for example, power is insufficient). In particular, in power generation using renewable energy such as wind power generation and solar power generation, there are many surpluses and shortages of electric power.

Therefore, a device has been developed that includes a brick block with a built-in electric heater and a flow path formed inside (for example, Patent Document 1). The technique disclosed in Patent Document 1 drives an electric heater to heat a brick block and store heat when there is surplus electricity. The technique disclosed in Patent Document 1 heats water using the stored heat by passing water through a flow path when electric power is required (for example, when there is a shortage of electric power). Subsequently, the technology of Patent Document 1 rotates a turbine using heated water (steam) to generate electricity.

US Patent Application Publication No. 2008/0219651

In order to stabilize the power grid (achieve a smart grid), there is a technology that converts surplus electricity into heat, stores it, and uses the stored heat when it is needed.

The present disclosure provides an energy storage device that converts electric power into heat, efficiently stores heat, and efficiently utilizes the heat when necessary, in the technology that utilizes the stored heat. The purpose is

In order to solve the above problems, in an energy storage device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, gas is supplied from a gas supply port formed on the bottom or the lower part, solid particles are supplied from above the gas supply port, and the gas and a first heat exchanger that exchanges heat with the solid particles; a gas supply unit that supplies gas to the first heat exchanger; a gas sent from the gas supply unit and supplied to the first heat exchanger; a heater that consumes electric power to heat either or both of the gases in the heat exchanger; a solid-gas separator that separates the solid-gas mixture discharged from the first heat exchanger into solid-gas; A high-temperature tank that stores solid particles separated by the solid-gas separator, and a low-temperature storage part that surrounds at least a part of the first heat exchanger and at least a part of the high-temperature tank, and the solid particles are separated by the solid-gas separator. a first heat utilization device that utilizes the thermal energy of the gas separated by the solid-gas separator; and at least the first heat utilization device that stores the gas separated by the solid-gas separator. a high-temperature particle supply section that supplies the solid particles stored in the high-temperature tank to the first heat exchanger; and a low-temperature particle supply unit that supplies the solid particles stored in the low-temperature tank to the first heat exchanger. a supply section , and the heater is provided outside the low temperature bath and the high temperature bath .

Moreover, at least a portion of the first heat exchanger may be provided within the high temperature tank.

Furthermore, at least a portion of the high temperature tank may be provided within the first heat exchanger.

Further, the solid-gas separator may be provided within the low temperature tank or the high temperature tank.

Further, the heater may be provided on the wall of the first heat exchanger, the cryostat in one or both of the first heat exchangers, and a portion disposed outside the cryostat .

According to the present disclosure, it is possible to convert electric power into heat, efficiently store heat, and efficiently utilize heat when necessary.

It is a figure explaining an energy storage device. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a heat storage body according to an embodiment. FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view of the heat storage section according to the embodiment. FIG. 3B is a first diagram showing an example of a cross-sectional view taken along the line III in FIG. 3A. FIG. 3C is a second diagram showing an example of a cross-sectional view taken along line III in FIG. 3A. It is a figure explaining the process of a control part in heat storage mode. It is a figure explaining the process of a control part in heat radiation mode. It is a horizontal sectional view of a 1st heat exchanger, a high temperature tank, and a low temperature tank. It is a figure explaining the energy storage device concerning the 1st modification. FIG. 7 is a horizontal sectional view of a first heat exchanger, a high temperature tank, and a low temperature storage section according to a first modification. FIG. 9A is a diagram illustrating a heater according to a second modification. FIG. 9B is a diagram illustrating a heater according to a second modification. FIG. 9C is a diagram illustrating a heater according to a second modification.

An embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The dimensions, materials, and other specific numerical values shown in these embodiments are merely examples for easy understanding, and do not limit the present disclosure unless otherwise specified. In this specification and drawings, elements having substantially the same functions and configurations are designated by the same reference numerals to omit redundant explanation, and elements not directly related to the present disclosure are omitted from illustration. do.

[Energy storage device 100]
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an energy storage device 100. As shown in FIG. 1, the energy storage device 100 includes a gas supply section 110, a heating chamber 120, a first heat exchanger 130, a solid-gas separator 140, a distribution section 142, a high temperature tank 150, and a high temperature tank 150. A particle supply section 152, a low temperature tank 160, a low temperature particle supply section 162, a gas delivery section 170, a first heat utilization device 180, a second heat exchanger 190, a heat storage section 196, and a control section 200. include. Note that in FIG. 1, solid arrows indicate the flow of solid particles and solid-gas mixtures. In FIG. 1, dashed arrows indicate fluid flow. Also, crosshatching indicates solid particles.

The gas supply unit 110 supplies gas (for example, air) to a heating chamber 120, which will be described later. The gas supply section 110 includes a blower 112, pipes 114a, 114b, and 114c, and valves 116a, 116b, and 116c. The blower 112 has a suction side connected to a gas supply source, and a discharge side connected to a pipe 114a. Piping 114a connects blower 112 and heating chamber 120. Valve 116a is provided in piping 114a. Piping 114b is branched from between blower 112 and valve 116a in piping 114a, and connected between valve 174c and heat storage section 196 in piping 172c, which will be described later. Valve 116b is provided in piping 114b. Piping 114c connects a low-temperature storage section 160a of a low-temperature tank 160, which will be described later, and a valve 116a in piping 114a and heating chamber 120. Valve 116c is provided in piping 114c.

Heating chamber 120 includes a box 122 and a heater 124. The box 122 is a hollow container. The upper surface of the box body 122 is composed of a ventilated distribution plate. The top surface of the box body 122 also functions as the bottom surface of a first heat exchanger 130, which will be described later. Gas is supplied to the box 122 from the gas supply section 110 (blower 112). The heater 124 consumes power to heat the gas. The heater 124 is, for example, a resistance heating device (a device that uses heat generated from a conductor to which electric power is supplied) or an arc heating device (a device that uses heat generated during arc discharge).

The heater 124 can consume electric power generated by either or both of a power generation system using renewable energy and a power generation system using a turbine generator. A power generation system using renewable energy is, for example, a solar thermal power generation system, a solar power generation system, or a wind power generation system. Since the heater 124 consumes electric power generated by a power generation system using renewable energy, the electric power that is often surplus can be efficiently converted into heat.

The heater 124 is placed inside the box 122. The heater 124 heats the gas supplied into the box 122. Therefore, when the heater 124 is driven, the gas sent into the box 122 from the gas supply section 110 is heated by the heater 124 and then supplied to the first heat exchanger 130.

The first heat exchanger 130 is supplied with gas and solid particles from the bottom or lower part, and exchanges heat between the gas and the solid particles. The solid particles are made of a material whose melting point is higher than the required temperature of the first heat utilization device 180, which will be described later.

Solid particles are, for example, silica, alumina, barite sand (barite, barium sulfate), partially calcined clay, glass spheres, recovered petroleum catalyst, etc. The solid particles are preferably silica and/or alumina. When the solid particles are made of silica, the cost required for the solid particles can be reduced. Further, by using desert sand or river sand as the solid particles (silica), it becomes possible to obtain it easily at low cost. Furthermore, by using alumina, which has a relatively high melting point, as the solid particles, the solid particles can be heated to a high temperature, and a higher energy storage density can be achieved.

The solid particles are particles with a particle size of 0.01 mm or more and 10 mm or less. The shape of the solid particles is not limited, and may be spherical or non-spherical.

In this embodiment, the first heat exchanger 130 is a hollow container. A heater or a heat exchanger may be installed inside the first heat exchanger 130. Solid particles are supplied to the first heat exchanger 130 from a high temperature tank 150 and a low temperature tank 160, which will be described later. Further, as described above, gas is supplied to the first heat exchanger 130 from the gas supply section 110 through the heating chamber 120. The flow rate of the gas supplied to the first heat exchanger 130 by the gas supply unit 110 is greater than or equal to the terminal velocity of the solid particles within the first heat exchanger 130 . Further, the solid particles are supplied from above through a gas supply port 130a formed in a distribution plate (distributor) arranged on the bottom surface of the first heat exchanger 130. Therefore, the solid-gas mixture of solid particles and gas passes through the first heat exchanger 130 from the bottom to the top (from the bottom to the top). In addition, a solid-gas mixture of solid particles and gas is formed in the first heat exchanger 130, and since the solid particles and gas are strongly stirred, the solid particles and gas efficiently come into contact with each other and heat up. be exchanged.

The solid-gas separator 140 separates the solid-gas mixture discharged from the first heat exchanger 130 into solid-gas mixtures. The solid-gas separator 140 is, for example, a cyclone or a filter. The distribution unit 142 distributes the solid particles separated into solid and gas by the solid-gas separator 140 to the high temperature tank 150 or the low temperature tank 160. Distribution section 142 includes piping 144a, 144b and valves 146a, 146b. Piping 144a connects the solid particle outlet of solid-gas separator 140 and high temperature tank 150. Valve 146a is provided in piping 144a. Piping 144b connects the solid particle outlet of solid-gas separator 140 and low temperature tank 160. Valve 146b is provided in piping 144b. Note that the valve 146a and the valve 146b are exclusively opened and closed by a control section 200, which will be described later.

The high temperature tank 150 stores solid particles separated into solid and gas by the solid-gas separator 140. The high temperature bath 150 is, for example, a hopper. The high temperature particle supply section 152 supplies the solid particles stored in the high temperature tank 150 to the first heat exchanger 130 . High-temperature particle supply section 152 includes piping 154 and a flow rate adjustment valve 156. Piping 154 connects the lower part of high temperature tank 150 and the lower part of first heat exchanger 130. A flow rate adjustment valve 156 is provided in the piping 154.

The cold tank 160 stores solid particles separated into solid and gas by the solid-gas separator 140. Solid particles are supplied to the low-temperature bath 160 at a different timing from that of the high-temperature bath 150 . The low temperature chamber 160 includes a low temperature storage section 160a, a heat storage unit 160b, and a protection plate 160c.

The cold storage section 160a accommodates the solid particles supplied by the distribution section 142. The low temperature storage section 160a is a hollow container. The low temperature accommodation section 160a is provided with a gas supply port 160aa and a gas discharge port 160ab. The gas supply port 160aa is formed at the bottom of the low temperature accommodation section 160a. The gas supply port 160aa is connected to a pipe 172b described later. The gas outlet 160ab is formed in the upper part of the low temperature storage part 160a. Gas exhaust port 160ab is connected to piping 114c.

The heat storage unit 160b is housed in the lower part of the low temperature storage section 160a due to its own weight. That is, the heat storage unit 160b is provided between the gas supply port 160aa and the gas discharge port 160ab in the low temperature storage section 160a. The heat storage unit 160b is composed of a plurality of heat storage bodies 160ba. The heat storage body 160ba is larger than the solid particles.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the heat storage body 160ba according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the heat storage body 160ba includes a container 210 and a first latent heat storage material 212. The container 210 (capsule) includes a closed space inside. The container 210 has, for example, a spherical shape. The first latent heat storage material 212 is housed in the container 210. The first latent heat storage material 212 is a phase change material (PCM) that changes from solid to liquid or from liquid to solid at a predetermined phase transition point (melting point). The first latent heat storage material 212 absorbs heat and becomes a liquid, and releases heat and becomes a solid. The first latent heat storage material 212 is one or both of a metal including an alloy and a compound of a metal and a nonmetal. The phase transition point of the first latent heat storage material 212 is, for example, 700°C.

Returning to FIG. 1, the protection plate 160c is provided above the heat storage unit 160b. The protection plate 160c is a plate in which a plurality of holes are formed. Solid particles are stored on the protection plate 160c. That is, the solid particles separated by the solid-gas separator 140 are stored between the heat storage unit 160b and the gas outlet 160ab. The protection plate 160c suppresses contact between the heat storage unit 160b and solid particles. Thereby, the protection plate 160c can suppress wear of the heat storage body 160ba caused by solid particles. Therefore, the protection plate 160c can prevent damage to the heat storage body 160ba.

A fluidizing gas (for example, air) is supplied from the gas supply section 110 (blower 112) or the solid-gas separator 140 to the low temperature storage section 160a (gas supply port 160aa). The fluidizing gas supplied to the gas supply port 160aa is supplied into the low temperature accommodation section 160a through the heat storage unit 160b and the protection plate 160c. Note that, as described above, since the heat storage unit 160b is constituted by a plurality of heat storage bodies 160ba, the fluidizing gas is supplied to the low temperature storage section 160a through between the heat storage bodies 160ba. That is, the heat storage unit 160b (the plurality of heat storage bodies 160ba) functions as a distributor that disperses (diffuses) the fluidizing gas and guides it upward.

Note that the flow rate of the fluidizing gas supplied from the gas supply unit 110 to the low temperature accommodation unit 160a is greater than or equal to the minimum fluidization rate and less than the scattering rate of solid particles. Further, the flow velocity of the fluidizing gas supplied from the solid-gas separator 140 to the low-temperature accommodation section 160a is greater than or equal to the minimum fluidization velocity of solid particles and less than the terminal velocity. Therefore, the solid particles supplied from the solid-gas separator 140 are fluidized by the fluidizing gas, and a fluidized bed (bubble fluidized bed) is formed in the low temperature accommodation section 160a. Furthermore, since the flow velocity of the fluidizing gas supplied from the solid-gas separator 140 to the low temperature storage section 160a is less than the terminal velocity, solid particles will not scatter from the low temperature storage section 160a. Further, as described above, the heat storage body 160ba is larger than the solid particles, so it is not fluidized.

The low temperature particle supply section 162 supplies the solid particles stored in the low temperature tank 160 to the first heat exchanger 130 . The low temperature particle supply section 162 includes a pipe 164 and a flow rate adjustment valve 166. Piping 164 connects the lower part of low temperature accommodation section 160a and the lower part of first heat exchanger 130. A flow rate adjustment valve 166 is provided in the piping 164.

The gas delivery section 170 sends out the gas separated into solid and gas by the solid-gas separator 140 to the first heat utilization device 180 or the low temperature accommodation section 160a (gas supply port 160aa). The gas delivery section 170 includes pipes 172a, 172b, 172c, and 172d, and valves 174a, 174b, 174c, and 174d. Piping 172a connects the gas exhaust port of solid-gas separator 140 and first heat utilization equipment 180. Valve 174a is provided in piping 172a. The pipe 172b connects the gas exhaust port of the solid-gas separator 140 and the gas supply port 160aa of the low temperature storage section 160a. Valve 174b is provided in piping 172b. Piping 172c connects gas discharge port 160ab of low temperature accommodation section 160a and heat storage section 196, which will be described later. Valve 174c is provided in piping 172c. Piping 172d connects heat storage section 196 and between valve 174b and gas supply port 160aa in piping 172b. That is, the heat storage section 196 is communicated with the gas supply port 160aa of the low temperature storage section 160a through the pipe 172d and the pipe 172b. The valve 174d is provided in the pipe 172d.

The first heat utilization device 180 is a device that utilizes the thermal energy of the gas separated by the solid-gas separator 140. The first heat utilization equipment 180 is, for example, a gas turbine generator, a steam turbine generator (boiler), a boiler that provides steam, a furnace (furnace, kiln), or an air conditioner.

The second heat exchanger 190 is provided between the valve 146b and the low temperature storage section 160a in the pipe 144b. The second heat exchanger 190 exchanges heat between the solid particles passing through the pipe 144b and a thermal fluid (eg, water, steam, air, combustion exhaust gas). The second heat exchanger 190 may be configured to form a fluidized bed of solid particles or may be configured to form a moving bed of solid particles. The second heat exchanger 190 exchanges heat between the solid particles and the thermal fluid. The second heat exchanger 190 cools the solid particles and heats the thermal fluid. The heated thermal fluid is supplied to a second heat utilization device (not shown). The second heat utilization device is a device that utilizes the thermal energy of the fluid heated by the second heat exchanger 190. The second heat utilization equipment is, for example, a gas turbine generator, a steam turbine generator (boiler), a boiler that provides steam, a furnace (furnace, kiln), and air conditioning equipment.

The heat storage section 196 is communicated with a pipe 172c (gas exhaust port 160ab) and a pipe 172d (gas supply port 160aa). One end of the exhaust pipe 196a is connected to the piping 172d, and the other end is open. Valve 196b is provided in exhaust pipe 196a.

FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view of the heat storage section 196 according to this embodiment. FIG. 3B is a first diagram showing an example of a cross-sectional view taken along the line III in FIG. 3A. FIG. 3C is a second diagram showing an example of a cross-sectional view taken along line III in FIG. 3A.

As shown in FIG. 3A, the heat storage unit 196 includes a storage container 220, a second latent heat storage material 222, a plurality of tubes 230, an inlet manifold 232, and an outlet manifold 234. The storage container 220 includes a closed space inside. The storage container 220 has, for example, a cylindrical shape (see FIG. 3B) or a rectangular tube shape (see FIG. 3C). The second latent heat storage material 222 is accommodated in the container 220 . The second latent heat storage material 222 is a phase change material. The second latent heat storage material 222 absorbs heat and becomes a liquid, and releases heat and becomes a solid. The second latent heat storage material 222 has a lower phase transition point than the first latent heat storage material 212. The second latent heat storage material 222 is, for example, paraffin. The phase transition point of the second latent heat storage material 222 is, for example, 150°C.

Tube 230 is disposed within containment container 220 . The tube 230 is surrounded by the second latent heat storage material 222 . The tube 230 has, for example, a cylindrical shape (see FIG. 3B) or a rectangular tube shape (see FIG. 3C). Inlet manifold 232 communicates between the plurality of pipes 230 and piping 172c. The outlet manifold 234 connects the plurality of pipes 230 and the piping 172d.

Referring back to FIG. 1, the control unit 200 is composed of a semiconductor integrated circuit including a CPU (central processing unit). The control unit 200 reads programs, parameters, etc. for operating the CPU itself from the ROM. The control unit 200 manages and controls the entire energy storage device 100 in cooperation with the RAM as a work area and other electronic circuits. In this embodiment, the control unit 200 includes a gas supply unit 110 (blower 112, valves 116a, 116b, 116c), a heater 124, a distribution unit 142 (valves 146a, 146b), a high temperature particle supply unit 152 (flow rate adjustment valve 156 ), the low temperature particle supply unit 162 (flow rate adjustment valve 166), the gas delivery unit 170 (valve 174a, 174b, 174c, 174d), and valve 196b.

In the present embodiment, the control unit 200 converts the surplus power into thermal energy and stores it (thermal storage mode) during a period when the power is surplus (generated power amount - demanded power amount > predetermined value (for example, 0)). On the other hand, when heat or electric power is required, the control unit 200 uses the stored thermal energy in the first heat utilization device 180 (heat radiation mode). Note that in the initial state, the blower 112 and the heater 124 are stopped, and the valves 116a, 116b, 116c, 146a, 146b, 174a, 174b, 174c, 174d, 196b, and the flow rate adjustment valves 156, 166 are closed. There is. Further, in the initial state, the solid particles are stored in the low temperature chamber 160 (low temperature storage section 160a). The processing of the control unit 200 in each of the heat storage mode and the heat radiation mode will be described below.

[Heat storage mode]
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating the processing of the control unit 200 in the heat storage mode. Note that, for ease of understanding, components that are not used in the heat storage mode are omitted in FIG. 4. Also, crosshatching indicates solid particles.

The control unit 200 closes the valves 116b, 116c, 146b, 174a, 174d and the flow rate adjustment valve 156. Further, as shown in FIG. 4, the control unit 200 drives the blower 112 and the heater 124. Further, the control unit 200 opens the valves 116a, 146a, 174b, 174c, and 196b. The control unit 200 opens the flow rate adjustment valve 166 and adjusts its opening degree.

In this case, surplus power is consumed by the heater 124. The gas supplied to the heating chamber 120 by the blower 112 is heated by the heater 124. The heater 124 heats the gas to a predetermined first temperature that is lower than the heat resistance temperature of the solid particles and that satisfies the required temperature of the first heat utilization device 180. For example, the heater 124 heats the gas such that the solid particles heated by the gas reach a predetermined second temperature that satisfies the required temperature. If the solid particles are silica, the gas is heated to below 1600°C. Further, although the second temperature is lower than the first temperature, the temperature difference is small (for example, about 50° C.).

The thus heated high-temperature gas (gas at the first temperature) is supplied to the first heat exchanger 130. In addition, low-temperature solid particles are supplied to the first heat exchanger 130 from the low-temperature storage section 160a. Therefore, in the first heat exchanger 130, the high temperature gas and the low temperature solid particles are strongly stirred, and heat exchange is performed between the high temperature gas and the low temperature solid particles. As a result, the solid particles are heated by the gas, and the gas is cooled by the solid particles. Note that at the outlet of the first heat exchanger 130, the temperature of the solid particles and the temperature of the gas become approximately equal (second temperature).

Then, the solid-gas separator 140 separates the solid-gas mixture discharged from the first heat exchanger 130 into solid-gas. The high-temperature solid particles (solid particles at the second temperature) separated into solid and gas are supplied to the high-temperature tank 150 through the pipe 144a. High temperature tank 150 stores high temperature solid particles.

On the other hand, the solid-gas-separated gas at the second temperature is supplied to the low temperature accommodation section 160a through the pipe 172b. The gas at the second temperature supplied to the low-temperature storage section 160a first undergoes heat exchange with the heat storage body 160ba (first latent heat storage material 212) of the heat storage unit 160b. Thereby, the gas at the second temperature is cooled to the third temperature, and the heat storage body 160ba of the heat storage unit 160b is heated to the third temperature.

Then, the gas at the third temperature fluidizes the solid particles accommodated in the low temperature accommodation section 160a. Furthermore, the solid particles accommodated in the low-temperature accommodation section 160a are heated to a fourth temperature (the fourth temperature is lower than a sixth temperature described later and higher than normal temperature (for example, 25° C.)) by the gas at the third temperature. be done.

The gas at the fourth temperature is then supplied to the heat storage section 196 through the pipe 172c. The gas at the fourth temperature exchanges heat with the second latent heat storage material 222 of the heat storage section 196. As a result, the gas at the fourth temperature is cooled to the fifth temperature, and the second latent heat storage material 222 is heated to the fifth temperature. The gas cooled to the fifth temperature is exhausted to the outside through the exhaust pipe 196a.

That is, the heat storage unit 160b and the solid particles housed in the low-temperature storage section 160a, and the heat storage section 196 can partially recover the heat possessed by the gas discharged from the first heat exchanger 130.

Thus, in the heat storage mode, excess power is converted into heat and first transferred to the gas. Then, heat exchange occurs between the high temperature gas and the low temperature solid particles, and heat is transferred to the solid particles. In this way, excess power is converted into thermal energy and retained (heat stored) in the solid particles. Note that since the heat capacity of solid particles is larger than that of gas (air), the heat storage density (J/m ³ ) of solid particles is higher than that of gas.

Note that the control unit 200 adjusts the opening degree of the flow rate adjustment valve 166 based on the amount of surplus power (hereinafter referred to as "surplus power amount"). Specifically, when the surplus electric power is converted into thermal energy by the heater 124 and solid particles are heated (via gas) with this thermal energy, the amount of solid particles that reach the second temperature is It is determined. Therefore, the control unit 200 adjusts the opening degree of the flow rate regulating valve 166 so that the determined amount of solid particles is supplied to the first heat exchanger 130.

As a result, even if the amount of surplus electricity fluctuates (the amount of surplus electricity changes over time), the temperature of the solid particles stored in the high temperature tank 150 can be constantly maintained at the second temperature. Can be done. In other words, it is possible to respond to fluctuations in the amount of surplus power. Therefore, in the heat dissipation mode described below, it is possible to supply gas at the sixth temperature that satisfies the required temperature to the first heat utilization device 180 without using additional energy (for example, without burning auxiliary fuel). becomes.

[Heat dissipation mode]
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the processing of the control unit 200 in the heat dissipation mode. Note that for ease of understanding, components that are not used in the heat dissipation mode are omitted in FIG. Also, crosshatching indicates solid particles.

The control unit 200 closes the valves 116a, 146a, 174b, 174c, and 196b, and the flow rate adjustment valve 166. The control unit 200 stops the heater 124. Further, as shown in FIG. 5, the control unit 200 opens the valves 116b, 116c, 146b, 174a, and 174d, and opens the flow rate adjustment valve 156 to adjust the opening degree. Control unit 200 drives blower 112.

Then, gas is supplied from the blower 112 to the first heat exchanger 130 through the heat storage section 196, the low temperature tank 160, and the box body 122. Note that the blower 112 supplies gas at the required flow rate of the first heat utilization device 180. Thereby, the gas supplied by the blower 112 is heated to the fifth temperature in the heat storage section 196, heated to the third temperature by the heat storage unit 160b of the low temperature tank 160, and then guided to the first heat exchanger 130.

Further, high temperature solid particles (solid particles at the second temperature) are supplied to the first heat exchanger 130 from the high temperature tank 150 . Therefore, in the first heat exchanger 130, heat exchange is performed between the gas at a low temperature (third temperature) and the solid particles at a high temperature (second temperature). As a result, the gas is heated by the solid particles, and the solid particles are cooled by the gas. Note that the solid particles and the gas discharged from the first heat exchanger 130 have approximately the same temperature, which is the sixth temperature.

Then, the solid-gas separator 140 separates the solid-gas mixture discharged from the first heat exchanger 130 into solid-gas. The solid-gas separated high-temperature gas (sixth temperature gas) is supplied to the first heat utilization device 180 through the pipe 172a. Note that the sixth temperature is a predetermined temperature that satisfies the required temperature of the first heat utilization device 180, and is lower than the second temperature. Thereby, in the first heat utilization device 180, the thermal energy possessed by the gas is utilized (for example, electricity is generated). On the other hand, the solid particles at the sixth temperature that have been separated into solid and gas are supplied to the low temperature chamber 160 (low temperature storage section 160a) through the pipe 144b.

Thus, in the heat dissipation mode, heat is exchanged between the high-temperature solid particles and the low-temperature gas, and heat is transferred to the gas. Then, when needed (for example, during a period when power is insufficient), the high-temperature gas (gas at the sixth temperature) is used by the first heat utilization device 180 (for example, to generate electricity).

Note that the control unit 200 adjusts the opening degree of the flow rate adjustment valve 156 based on the required temperature and required flow rate of the first heat utilization device 180. Specifically, when the blower 112 supplies gas at the required flow rate of the first heat utilization device 180 and heats the gas with solid particles at the second temperature stored in the high temperature tank 150, the gas is heated to the sixth temperature. The amount of solid particles to be heated to is determined. Therefore, the control unit 200 adjusts the opening degree of the flow rate regulating valve 156 so that the determined amount of solid particles is supplied to the first heat exchanger 130.

Thereby, the temperature of the gas supplied to the first heat utilization device 180 can be set to the required temperature of the first heat utilization device 180. Therefore, it is possible to stably supply gas at the sixth temperature that satisfies the required temperature to the first heat utilization device 180 without using additional energy (for example, without burning auxiliary fuel). . Even if the required temperature (for example, the required power generation amount) of the first heat utilization device 180 fluctuates over time, this can be handled by adjusting the amount of solid particles supplied.

The energy storage device 100 also includes a second heat exchanger 190. The second heat exchanger 190 exchanges heat between the solid particles passing through the pipe 144b and the thermal fluid. Thereby, the thermal fluid heated by the solid particles is supplied to the second heat utilization device. The second heat utilization device utilizes the heat of the thermal fluid (the heat of the solid particles separated by the solid-gas separator 140). That is, the second heat exchanger 190 can effectively utilize the heat of the solid particles after heating the gas to the sixth temperature.

[Positional relationship among first heat exchanger 130, high temperature tank 150, and low temperature tank 160]
Next, the positional relationship among the first heat exchanger 130, high temperature tank 150, and low temperature tank 160 will be explained. FIG. 6 is a horizontal sectional view of the first heat exchanger 130, the high temperature tank 150, and the low temperature tank 160. As shown in FIG. 6, at least a portion of the first heat exchanger 130 is provided within the high temperature tank 150. High temperature tank 150 is provided within low temperature tank 160. In other words, the low temperature accommodation section 160a surrounds at least a portion of the first heat exchanger 130 and at least a portion of the high temperature tank 150.

As described above, when the heat storage mode ends, high temperature (second temperature) solid particles are stored in the high temperature tank 150. Further, at this time, the low temperature tank 160 (low temperature storage section 160a) stores only gas without storing solid particles. Therefore, the high temperature tank 150 is surrounded by the gas in the low temperature tank 160 until the heat storage mode ends and the heat radiation mode starts. From the end of the heat storage mode until the start of the heat dissipation mode, the gas stored in the low temperature tank 160 has a higher temperature than the outside air. Therefore, in the energy storage device 100, the temperature between the solid particles stored in the high temperature tank 150 and the gas outside the high temperature tank 150 (the gas in the low temperature tank 160) is higher than in a configuration in which the high temperature tank 150 is exposed to the outside air. The difference can be made smaller. Therefore, the energy storage device 100 can suppress heat radiation of the solid particles stored in the high temperature tank 150 to the outside.

Further, at least a portion of the first heat exchanger 130 is provided within the high temperature tank 150. Therefore, the first heat exchanger 130 is surrounded by the high temperature solid particles stored in the high temperature tank 150 from the end of the heat storage mode until the start of the heat radiation mode. Therefore, the inside of the first heat exchanger 130 is heated by the solid particles stored in the high temperature bath 150 until the next time the heat radiation mode is started. Thereby, the energy storage device 100 can maintain the inside of the first heat exchanger 130 at a higher temperature than in a configuration where the first heat exchanger 130 is exposed to the outside air. Therefore, the first heat exchanger 130 can efficiently impart heat from the solid particles to the gas in the heat radiation mode.

Note that, as shown in FIG. 6, the horizontal cross sections of the first heat exchanger 130, the high temperature tank 150, and the low temperature storage section 160a are rectangular. Thereby, it becomes possible to easily manufacture the first heat exchanger 130, the high temperature tank 150, and the low temperature storage section 160a.

Returning to FIG. 1, the heater 124 of the heating chamber 120 is provided outside the low temperature chamber 160. Thereby, the energy storage device 100 can easily maintain the heater 124.

Furthermore, the solid-gas separator 140 and the second heat exchanger 190 are provided within the low temperature storage section 160a. The inside of the low temperature accommodation section 160a is higher in temperature than the outside air. Therefore, compared to a configuration in which the solid-gas separator 140 and the second heat exchanger 190 are exposed to the outside air, the energy storage device 100 can suppress the heat radiation of the solid-gas separator 140 and the second heat exchanger 190. can.

Further, the solid-gas separator 140 is provided vertically above the high temperature tank 150 and the low temperature tank 160. Thereby, the distribution unit 142 can move the solid particles to the high temperature tank 150 and the low temperature tank 160 by their own weight. Therefore, the distribution unit 142 can reduce the external energy required to move the solid particles.

Further, the lower end of the high temperature tank 150 is located vertically above the lower end of the first heat exchanger 130. Thereby, the high-temperature particle supply unit 152 can move the solid particles to the first heat exchanger 130 by its own weight. Therefore, the high-temperature particle supply unit 152 can reduce the external energy required to move the solid particles.

Similarly, the lower end of the cryostat 160 is located vertically above the lower end of the first heat exchanger 130. Thereby, the low-temperature particle supply unit 162 can move the solid particles to the first heat exchanger 130 by its own weight. Therefore, the low-temperature particle supply unit 162 can reduce the external energy required to move the solid particles.

As explained above, the energy storage device 100 according to the present embodiment converts surplus power into thermal energy and stores it in solid particles. This makes it possible to store energy at a lower cost than conventional techniques that store surplus power in secondary batteries or convert surplus power into hydrogen. In addition, compared to conventional technology that converts surplus electricity into hydrogen and stores it, this technology allows the stored energy to be converted into thermal energy at high speed when needed (for example, when there is a shortage of electricity). Can be converted into electrical energy.

Furthermore, compared to conventional technology that stores heat in brick blocks, by adjusting the amount of solid particles to store heat in the heat storage mode, it is possible to store solid particles at a specified second temperature even if the surplus power fluctuates. I can do it. In addition, in the heat dissipation mode, the flow rate of the gas supplied by the blower 112 is set as the required flow rate of the first heat utilization device 180, and by adjusting the amount of solid particles supplied to the first heat exchanger 130, the first heat utilization device The temperature of the gas supplied to the first heat utilization device 180 can be set as the required temperature of the first heat utilization device 180 . Therefore, it is possible to cope with temporal load fluctuations of the first heat utilization device 180 without requiring auxiliary fuel.

The energy storage device 100 also includes a heat storage unit 160b and a heat storage section 196. Thereby, the energy storage device 100 can store exhaust heat generated in the heat storage mode in the heat storage unit 160b and the heat storage section 196.

In addition, in the heat dissipation mode, the blower 112 does not directly supply gas to the heating chamber 120 (first heat exchanger 130), but instead supplies the gas to the heat storage section 196 and the low temperature tank 160 (heat storage unit 160b, solid particles). Gas is supplied to the first heat exchanger 130 (via the heat storage section 196, the heat storage unit 160b, and the solid particles). Thereby, the gas supplied to the first heat exchanger 130 can be preheated by the heat storage section 196, the heat storage unit 160b, and the solid particles. Therefore, the energy storage device 100 can efficiently utilize the exhaust heat generated in the heat storage mode in the heat radiation mode.

Further, the blower 112 further preheats the gas preheated by the heat storage unit 160b using the solid particles accommodated in the low temperature accommodation section 160a. Thereby, the energy storage device 100 can further improve heat utilization efficiency. Therefore, the output of the first heat utilization device 180 can be increased. For example, when the first heat utilization device 180 is a steam turbine generator or a gas turbine generator, it is possible to improve power generation efficiency.

[First modification]
FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an energy storage device 300 according to a first modification. FIG. 8 is a horizontal sectional view of the first heat exchanger 130, high temperature tank 150, and low temperature storage section 160a according to the first modification. Energy storage device 300 differs from energy storage device 100 only in the positional relationship of first heat exchanger 130, high temperature tank 150, and low temperature tank 160. Therefore, the positional relationship among the first heat exchanger 130, high temperature tank 150, and low temperature tank 160 will be described here.

As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, in the first modification, the horizontal cross sections of the first heat exchanger 130, the high temperature tank 150, and the low temperature storage section 160a are circular. Thereby, it becomes possible to easily manufacture the first heat exchanger 130, the high temperature tank 150, and the low temperature storage section 160a.

Further, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the high temperature tank 150 is provided within the first heat exchanger 130.

As a result, from the end of the heat storage mode until the start of the heat dissipation mode, the high temperature tank 150 is surrounded by the gas in the first heat exchanger 130, and the first heat exchanger 130 is surrounded by the gas in the low temperature tank 160 (low temperature tank 160). It is surrounded by gas in the housing part 160a). Further, at this time, the inside of the low temperature accommodation section 160a is higher in temperature than the outside air. Therefore, the inside of the first heat exchanger 130 is maintained at a higher temperature than the outside air by the gas inside the low temperature accommodation section 160a. Therefore, in the energy storage device 300, compared to a configuration in which the high temperature tank 150 is exposed to the outside air, the solid particles stored in the high temperature tank 150 and the gas outside the high temperature tank 150 (the gas inside the first heat exchanger 130) ) can be made smaller. Thereby, the energy storage device 300 can suppress heat radiation of the solid particles stored in the high temperature tank 150 to the outside.

Further, at least a portion of the first heat exchanger 130 is provided within the low temperature storage section 160a. Therefore, the first heat exchanger 130 is surrounded by high-temperature solid particles stored in the low-temperature storage section 160a until the heat radiation mode ends and the heat storage mode starts. Therefore, until the next time the heat storage mode is started, the inside of the first heat exchanger 130 is heated by the solid particles stored in the low temperature tank 160 (low temperature storage section 160a). Thereby, the energy storage device 300 can maintain the inside of the first heat exchanger 130 at a high temperature compared to a configuration in which the first heat exchanger 130 is exposed to the outside air. This allows the heater 124 to reduce the power required to heat the gas in the heat storage mode.

[Second modification]
FIG. 9A is a diagram illustrating a heater 424 according to a second modification. FIG. 9B is a diagram illustrating a heater 524 according to a second modification. FIG. 9C is a diagram illustrating a heater 624 according to a second modification. In addition, in the second modification, configurations that are substantially the same as those described in the above embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

Heater 424 is an electric heater. As shown in FIG. 9A, the heater 424 is provided on the outer wall of the first heat exchanger 130.

Heater 524 is an electric heater. As shown in FIG. 9B, the heater 524 is provided on the inner wall of the first heat exchanger 130.

Heater 624 is an electric heater. As shown in FIG. 9C, the heater 624 is provided within the first heat exchanger 130.

The heaters 424, 524, and 624 are provided at least at the bottom of the first heat exchanger 130. The heating temperature of the heaters 424, 524, and 624 is lower than the heat resistant temperature of the box 122 (the heat resistant temperature of the distribution plate of the box 122).

The heaters 424, 524, and 624 are driven and controlled by the control unit 200. Specifically, the heaters 424, 524, 624 are driven in the heat storage mode and stopped in the heat radiation mode. By providing the heaters 424, 524, and 624, it becomes possible to efficiently transfer heat to the solid particles.

Although one embodiment has been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, it goes without saying that the present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiment. It is clear that those skilled in the art can come up with various changes and modifications within the scope of the claims, and it is understood that these naturally fall within the technical scope of the present disclosure. be done.

For example, in the embodiment described above, the heat storage section 196 includes the storage container 220, the second latent heat storage material 222, and the plurality of tubes 230 as an example. However, the structure of the heat storage section 196 is not limited as long as it includes the second latent heat storage material 222. For example, like the heat storage unit 160b, the heat storage section 196 may include a storage container 220 and a plurality of heat storage bodies. In this case, the heat storage body includes a container and a second latent heat storage material 222 accommodated in the container.

Furthermore, in the above embodiment, air was used as an example of the gas supplied by the gas supply unit 110. However, there is no limitation to the gas supplied by the gas supply section 110. The gas supply unit 110 may supply carbon dioxide or combustion exhaust gas, for example.

Furthermore, in the embodiment described above, the gas supply section 110 has been described using as an example a configuration in which the blower 112 is provided. However, the configuration of the gas supply section 110 is not limited as long as it can supply gas to the first heat exchanger 130. For example, the gas supply unit 110 may include a compressed gas source (for example, a compressed air source) or a pump instead of the blower 112.

Further, in the above embodiment, the configuration in which gas is supplied from the bottom of the first heat exchanger 130 has been described as an example. However, the gas (air) may be supplied from below the solid particle supply location in the first heat exchanger 130. For example, gas (air) may be supplied from the bottom of the first heat exchanger 130. Further, the gas supply unit 110 may supply gas at normal pressure or may supply pressurized gas.

Further, in the above embodiment, the case where the thermal fluid heat-exchanged by the second heat exchanger 190 is supplied to the second heat utilization device has been described as an example. However, the thermal fluid heat exchanged by the second heat exchanger 190 may be supplied to the first heat utilization device 180 instead of or in addition to the second heat utilization device.

Further, in the above embodiment, the configuration in which the low temperature chamber 160 stores solid particles as a fluidized bed has been described as an example. Thereby, in the heat dissipation mode, the gas can be efficiently preheated using the heat of the solid particles. However, the structure of the cryostat 160 is not limited as long as it can store solid particles. The cold chamber 160 may be, for example, a hopper. Furthermore, the cold chamber 160 may store solid particles as a moving layer.

Further, in the above embodiment, the case where the high temperature bath 150 is a hopper has been described as an example. Thereby, heat dissipation from the high-temperature solid particles can be suppressed. However, the configuration of the high temperature tank 150 is not limited as long as it can store solid particles. For example, the high temperature tank 150 may be configured to store solid particles as a fluidized bed, similar to the low temperature tank 160.

Furthermore, in the embodiment described above, a period in which there is a surplus of power (generated power amount - demanded power amount > predetermined value (for example, 0)) is defined as the heat storage mode. However, it may also be in thermal storage mode when power needs to be converted to other energy (for example, when power needs to be consumed to stabilize the power grid). Further, when electric power is required (generated electric power - demanded electric power < 0, for example, electric power is insufficient), the heat dissipation mode is set. However, when it is necessary to utilize heat (for example, when it is desired to utilize heat in a cement factory), the heat dissipation mode may be used.

Further, in the above embodiment and the first modification, the energy storage devices 100 and 300 are configured to include the heat storage unit 160b (heat storage body 160ba) and the heat storage section 196 as an example. However, the energy storage devices 100 and 300 only need to include at least one of the heat storage body 160ba and the heat storage section 196. Furthermore, the energy storage devices 100 and 300 may not include the heat storage body 160ba and the heat storage section 196.

Furthermore, in the above embodiment and the first modification example, the configuration in which the bottom surface of the high temperature bath 150 abuts on the protection plate 160c is exemplified. However, the bottom surface (lower end) of the high temperature tank 150 may be located above the protection plate 160c or may be located below the protection plate 160c.

Further, in the embodiment described above, a configuration in which the solid-gas separator 140 and the second heat exchanger 190 are provided in the low-temperature storage section 160a has been exemplified. However, either one or both of the solid-gas separator 140 and the second heat exchanger 190 may be provided within the high temperature tank 150. Moreover, either one or both of the solid-gas separator 140 and the second heat exchanger 190 may be provided outside the low-temperature storage section 160a.

Further, in the above embodiment, the case where the horizontal cross-sectional shapes of the first heat exchanger 130, the high temperature tank 150, and the low temperature tank 160 are rectangular has been exemplified. However, the shapes of the first heat exchanger 130, the high temperature tank 150, and the low temperature tank 160 are not limited. The horizontal cross-sectional shapes of the first heat exchanger 130, the high temperature tank 150, and the low temperature tank 160 may be polygonal or circular. Similarly, the horizontal cross-sectional shapes of the first heat exchanger 130, the high temperature tank 150, and the low temperature tank 160 in the first modification may be polygonal.

The present disclosure can be used in energy storage devices.

100 Energy storage device 110 Gas supply unit 124 Heater 130 First heat exchanger 140 Solid-gas separator 150 High temperature tank 152 High temperature particle supply unit 160 Low temperature tank 160a Low temperature storage unit 162 Low temperature particle supply unit 170 Gas delivery unit 180 First heat Utilizing equipment 196 Heat storage section 212 First latent heat storage material 222 Second latent heat storage material 300 Energy storage device 310 Gas supply section 370 Gas delivery section 424 Heater 524 Heater 624 Heater

Claims (5)

a first heat exchanger to which gas is supplied from a gas supply port formed on the bottom or the lower part, solid particles are supplied from above the gas supply port, and heat exchanges between the gas and the solid particles;
a gas supply unit that supplies gas to the first heat exchanger;
a heater that consumes electric power to heat either or both of the gas sent out from the gas supply unit and supplied to the first heat exchanger and the gas within the first heat exchanger; ,
a solid-gas separator that separates the solid-gas mixture discharged from the first heat exchanger;
a high-temperature tank that stores the solid particles separated by the solid-gas separator;
a low-temperature tank having a low-temperature storage section surrounding at least a portion of the first heat exchanger and at least a portion of the high-temperature tank, and storing the solid particles separated by the solid-gas separator;
a first heat utilization device that utilizes the thermal energy of the gas separated by the solid-gas separator;
a gas delivery unit that sends the gas separated by the solid-gas separator to at least a first heat utilization device;
a high temperature particle supply section that supplies the solid particles stored in the high temperature tank to the first heat exchanger;
a low temperature particle supply section that supplies the solid particles stored in the low temperature tank to the first heat exchanger;
Equipped with
The heater is an energy storage device provided outside the low temperature tank and the high temperature tank . The energy storage device according to claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the first heat exchanger is provided within the high temperature tank. The energy storage device according to claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the high temperature tank is provided within the first heat exchanger. The energy storage device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the solid-gas separator is provided within the low temperature tank or the high temperature tank. The heater is provided in a wall of the first heat exchanger, and in a portion of either or both of the first heat exchanger that is disposed outside the low temperature tank and the low temperature tank. 5. The energy storage device according to any one of 1 to 4.

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