Power generator

There is provided a power generator including a plurality of power generation elements, and a fuel supply portion that communicates with the plurality of power generation elements through a fuel supply passage, the plurality of power generation elements are housed in a plurality of independent power generation casings having vent portions, and the plurality of power generation casings are movably connected via a connecting portion so as to enter a housing state where the casings are placed on top of each other and a power generation state where the casings are separated. There is provided a portable power generator that can ensure sufficient ventilation and power generation areas in use (during power generation), and becomes compact when carried.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

The present application claims priority from Japanese application JP2006-096409 filed on Mar. 31, 2006, the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference into this application.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

(1) Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a portable power generator for charging a compact portable device including a chargeable power supply such as a mobile phone, a personal digital assistant, a shaver, or a portable audio device.

(2) Description of Related Art

In recent years, compact portable devices such as mobile phones or personal digital assistants have become more sophisticated and required a larger amount of electric power. This causes a battery (a secondary battery) used in the compact portable devices to be rapidly exhausted, and the battery needs to be charged at home and also away from home or in transit.

To charge a secondary battery away from home or in transit, portable power supplies that can be quickly charged using a dry cell are commercially available, but the dry cell is disposable to cause a waste of resources and increase costs. A portable power supply using a solar panel has been also proposed, but tends to be affected by the weather.

On the other hand, in recent years, a power generator (a fuel cell) using fuel such as methanol has been noted. The fuel cell can be repeatedly used by adding fuel, and is not affected by the weather.

Such a fuel cell used in a battery charger of a mobile phone has been proposed. See JP-A-2004-158421, JP-A-2004-194434, and JP-A-2004-336995.

The conventional examples using the fuel cell include a flat fuel tank and a flat power supply portion arranged in the front and back, and the mobile phone is removably mounted to the front thereof. In the conventional examples, however, ensuring a sufficient capacity of the fuel tank increases the entire thickness of the charger to prevent a size reduction. Also, the examples do not disclose addition of fuel that is important in usability.

Thus, an object of the present invention is to provide a portable power generator that can ensure the capacity for fuel and can easily add the fuel.

A treatment method of moisture produced during power generation is a problem specific to fuel cells. Moisture produced during power generation has been generally released into the atmosphere as vapor.

In the conventional fuel cell, however, a vent for releasing moisture as vapor is insufficiently formed to prevent an increase in exhaust efficiency. A sufficiently formed vent increases the exhaust efficiency, but also increases the size of the fuel cell itself, which causes the power generator to be less portable.

Thus, another object of the present invention is to provide a portable power generator that can ensure sufficient ventilation and power generation areas in use (during power generation), and becomes compact when carried.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In order to achieve the above described objects, the present invention provides a power generator including: a first power generation casing having a power generation element therein; a second power generation casing having a power generation element therein; and a fuel supply portion that supplies fuel to the first power generation casing and the second power generation casing, wherein the first power generation casing and the second power generation casing are connected via a connecting portion so as to enter a housing state where the casings are placed on top of each other and a power generation state where the casings are separated, and have vent portions provided in inner surfaces that are exposed in the power generation state, the fuel supply portion is mounted to either the first power generation casing or the second power generation casing, and the power generator further includes a switch that switches the first power generation casing and the second power generation casing from the housing state to the power generation state to supply the fuel and start power generation.

The present invention also provides a power generator including: a first power generation casing having a power generation element therein; a second power generation casing having a power generation element therein; and a connecting casing having a fuel supply portion that supplies fuel to the first power generation casing and the second power generation casing, wherein the connecting casing connects one end of the first power generation casing to one end of the second power generation casing so as to enter a first state where the first power generation casing and the second power generation casing are folded and a second state where the first power generation casing and the second power generation casing are opened, the first power generation casing and the second power generation casing have vent portions in inner surfaces that are concealed in the first state and exposed in the second state, and the power generator further includes a switch that switches the first power generation casing and the second power generation casing from the first state to the second state to supply the fuel and start power generation.

The present invention also provides a power generator including: a first power generation casing having a power generation element therein; a second power generation casing having a power generation element therein; a connecting portion that connects the first power generation casing to the second power generation casing; and a main casing having a fuel supply portion that supplies fuel to the first power generation casing and the second power generation casing, wherein the connecting portion connects one end of the first power generation casing to one end of the second power generation casing so as to enter a first state where the first power generation casing and the second power generation casing are folded and a second state where the first power generation casing and the second power generation casing are opened, the first power generation casing and the second power generation casing have vent portions in inner surfaces that are concealed in the first state and exposed in the second state, the main casing has an insertion port for a fuel cartridge that supplies the fuel to the first power generation casing and the second power generation casing, and the power generator further includes a switch that switches the first power generation casing and the second power generation casing from the first state to the second state to supply the fuel from the fuel cartridge and start power generation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Now, a portable power generator (a fuel cell) according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference toFIGS. 1 to 27. The same components or the arrows are denoted by the same reference numerals, and overlapping descriptions will be omitted.

(Summary of a Portable Power Generator According to the Present Invention)

A power generator according to the present invention includes a plurality of power generation casings each having a power generation element, a main casing including a board, an external connection terminal, and a fuel supply portion, and a connecting portion that connects the main casing to the plurality of power generation casings. The power generation element according to the present invention is a fuel cell using fuel such as methanol, and has a thin flat appearance. The plurality of power generation casings each have a thin flat appearance in accordance with the power generation element.

The present invention has a significant feature in that the power generation casings each having the thin appearance are connected via a connecting portion so that the form thereof can be changed between a housing state where the power generation casings are placed on top of each other and a power generation state where a space is obtained around the power generation casings. In the present invention, the form of the casings can be changed to be compact and highly portable when housed, and to be suitable for increasing power generation efficiency in use.

In the present invention, the board, the external connection terminal, and the fuel supply portion are collectively placed in the main casing, and thus the power generation elements can be combined in the power generation casings in a compact manner. This reduces limitations on peripheries of the power generation casings in connection with placement of the board or the external connection terminal, and allows large vents to be provided, thereby increasing power generation efficiency and moisture releasing efficiency.

Further, in the present invention, the main casing may be structurally independent of other power generation casings. In this case, the main casing is preferably movably connected to other power generation casings via a connecting portion. The main casing may be integrally formed with one of the power generation casings. In this case, one power generation casing integrally formed with the main casing and the other power generation casing are preferably movable via a connecting portion.

Also, a fuel supply portion is placed in the main casing. A fuel cartridge that can include a predetermined amount of fuel may be provided in the fuel supply portion, or fuel may be supplied to the fuel supply portion from a dropper or other cartridge as required.

In the present invention, the fuel supply portion is placed in one place (the main casing), and the fuel is supplied through a fuel supply passage (a pipe) provided via a connecting portion in one or more power generation casings provided separately from the fuel supply portion. This reduces exposure of a pipe to the appearance of the casing with loss of design, or reduces cuts of the exposed pipe.

The connecting portion can changeably connect the plurality of power generation casings to the main casing with a variety of structures. For example, the connecting portion may use a variety of structures such as a foldable structure, a rotating structure, a sliding structure, a swinging structure, or a structure with part of the casing being extendable. Specifically, the connecting portion used in the present invention may connect the plurality of casings so as to enter a housing state where the casings are placed on top of each other and a power generation state where a space is obtained around the power generation casings. A better connecting portion has a structure such that a fuel supply pipe can be provided in the connecting portion.

Now, typical embodiments of the portable power generator according to the present invention will be described. The illustrated embodiments are typical ones and do not limit the invention.

FIGS. 1 to 4show a portable power generator according to a first embodiment of the present invention. First, a schematic structure of the power generator according to the first embodiment will be described with reference toFIGS. 1 to 3.

FIG. 1shows a schematic structure of the power generator according to the first embodiment,FIG. 1Ais a perspective view of an appearance, andFIG. 1Bis a schematic perspective view of an internal layout.FIG. 2shows an internal layout of the power generator according to the first embodiment in a closed state,FIG. 2Ais a front view, andFIG. 2Bis a bottom plan view.FIG. 3shows an internal layout of the power generator according to the first embodiment in an opened state,FIG. 3Ais a front view, andFIG. 3Bis a bottom plan view.

InFIGS. 1 to 3, the power generator1according to the embodiment includes a first power generation casing10and a second power generation casing20having power generation elements11therein, a main casing30having a fuel supply portion12therein, and a connecting portion that connects the casings.

The connecting portion includes a first connecting portion31that connects the main casing30to the first power generation casing10, a second connecting portion32that connects the first power generation casing10to the second power generation casing20, and a connector33that connects the two power generation elements11. The second connecting portion32openably and closably connects the first power generation casing10to the second power generation casing20so as to enter a first state where the first power generation casing10and the second power generation casing20are folded and a second state where the first power generation casing10and the second power generation casing20are opened.

The first power generation casing10and the second power generation casing20have vents15aand25aformed in inner surfaces11aand21athat are exposed in the opened state. The second power generation casing20has a protrusion28provided on the side of the second connecting portion. The protrusion28creates a space29between the inner surfaces11aand21aof the two power generation casings when folded.

The main casing30includes the fuel supply portion12, a control portion124that collectively controls the power generator1, an external interface125connected to an external device, and a main board126to which these components are connected.

The fuel supply portion12includes a fuel cartridge121that supplies fuel, a cartridge housing portion122that houses the fuel cartridge121, and a governor123that is provided at an end of the cartridge housing portion122and controls the fuel supplied from the fuel cartridge121.

A charging connector50can be connected to the external interface125via a USB connector40, and a compact portable device such as a mobile phone or a personal digital assistant is connected to the charging connector50to charge a battery included in the compact portable device.

The first connecting portion31is provided at one end of the first power generation casing10, and connects the first power generation casing10to the main casing30, and has a structure in which a fuel supply passage can be provided.

The connector33is provided at one end of the second power generation casing20(on the side of the second connecting portion), and connected to a fuel tube63provided on the other end of the first power generation casing10(on the side of the second connecting portion) to connect the two power generation elements11. Like the first connecting portion31, the connector33has a structure in which a fuel supply passage can be provided. In the embodiment, fuel supply pipes62are provided in the first connecting portion31and the connector33, and the pipe62and the fuel tube63constitute the fuel supply passage.

In the embodiment, the two power generation casings are foldably (openably and closably) connected by the connecting portion to ensure sufficient surface areas of the power generation elements, that is, sufficient ventilation and power generation areas in use (during power generation). The power generator has a high housing property and high portability when not used (at the stop of power generation). Specifically, as shown inFIG. 3, the first power generation casing10and the second power generation casing20first enter the second state where the power generation casings are opened to expose the inner surfaces11aand21aof the two casings and open the vents15aand25ain wide ranges. This allows sufficient surface areas of the power generation elements11required for power generation to be obtained, and allows moisture produced by the power generation to be efficiently released from the vents15aand25aopened in the wide ranges.

On the other hand, in the first state where the first power generation casing10and the second power generation casing20are closed, the entire length of the power generator1can be reduced as compared with the state where the two casings are opened as shown inFIG. 2, thereby providing high portability and a high housing property. When the two generation casings are folded, the vents15aand15bare concealed to prevent dust from entering the power generation casings.

Particularly in this embodiment, the thickness of the main casing30including the fuel supply portion12is substantially twice the thickness of the first power generation casing10or the second power generation casing20having the power generation element11. Thus, the thickness of the two generation casings placed on top of each other can be set substantially the same as the thickness of the main casing30. This provides a substantially rectangular compact form having a high housing property when housed, and makes the size of the main casing30including the fuel supply portion12unnoticeable in use.

Next, the state of use of the power generator according to the first embodiment will be described with reference toFIG. 4.FIG. 4shows the state of use of the power generator according to the first embodiment,FIG. 4Ais a perspective rear view, andFIG. 4Bis a bottom plan view of the state of use.

InFIG. 4, a fuel inlet port130through which the fuel cartridge121is inserted and a connection terminal131to which an external device is connected are provided in an upper surface of the power generator1.

An openable and closable or removable lid132is provided in the fuel inlet port130, and the lid132is opened to expose the cartridge housing portion122, and the fuel cartridge121can be removably housed in the cartridge housing portion122.

The fuel cartridge121inserted from the fuel inlet port130into the cartridge housing portion122is formed of transparent resin material, and the remaining amount of fuel can be confirmed from the periphery. An unshown governor mounting portion is formed at a tip of the fuel cartridge121. The governor mounting portion is formed to protrude from the tip and provided with an unshown stopper. The stopper is mounted to the governor123, and thus the governor mounting portion is pushed back inside to supply the fuel to the governor123.

The governor123has a function of supplying the fuel supplied from the fuel cartridge121to a power generation portion in an appropriate amount. The governor123has an unshown mounting port that fits the governor mounting portion. Rotating the fuel cartridge121in a predetermined direction with the governor mounting portion and the mounting port fitted to each other allows the governor123and the fuel cartridge121to be secured.

On the other hand, when the fuel cartridge121is removed, rotating the fuel cartridge121in an opposite direction allows the governor mounting portion and the mounting port to be separated to push the fuel cartridge121out of the cartridge housing portion122. A user can pick and take out the fuel cartridge121protruding from the power generator1. The removal structure of the fuel cartridge121is not limited to the above described structure.

To the connection terminal131, the charging connector50or the external device is connected directly or via the USB connector40.

As shown inFIG. 4, the power generator1having such a configuration is mainly used in a position such that the vents15aand25aprovided in the first power generation casing10and the second power generation casing20are exposed, that is, a position such that a bottom surface of the power generator1comes into contact with a placement surface with the two power generation casings being opened as shown inFIG. 4A, a position such that the other end along the length of the second power generation casing20(the side to be opened) and the main casing30come into contact with the placement surface as shown inFIG. 4B, or a position as shown inFIG. 3B.

The two power generation casings are opened to turn on an unshown included switch to supply the fuel from the fuel supply portion12to perform power generation. Generated electric power is supplied to the compact portable device connected to the power generator1to operate the compact portable device or charge the battery. Moisture produced by the power generation is released from the vents15aand25ain the direction of arrow A (upward).

This ensures large surface areas of the power generation elements required for power generation to allow power generation to be efficiently performed, and allowing moisture produced by the power generation to be efficiently released from the vents15aand25a.

Next, a portable power generator according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference toFIGS. 5 and 6.FIG. 5shows a schematic structure of the power generator according to the second embodiment,FIG. 5Ais a perspective view of an appearance, andFIG. 5Bis a perspective rear view.FIG. 6shows an exhaust structure of the power generator according to the second embodiment,FIG. 6Ashows an exhaust structure in an opened state, andFIG. 6Bshows an exhaust structure in a closed state.

The power generator according to the second embodiment has a feature in that vents are formed in inner surfaces and outer surfaces of two power generation casings.

InFIGS. 5 and 6, the power generator2according to the embodiment includes a first power generation casing10and a second power generation casing20having power generation elements11therein, a main casing30having a fuel supply portion12therein, and a connecting portion that connects the casings.

The first power generation casing10and the second power generation casing20have vents15aand25aformed in inner surfaces11aand21athat are exposed in an opened state, and vents15band25bprovided in outer surfaces11band21bof the two power generation casings.

In the power generator2having such a configuration, the first power generation casing10and the second power generation casing20are opened to open the vents15band25bformed in the outer surfaces of the two power generation elements, and the vents15aand25aprovided in the inner surfaces11aand21aof the two power generation casings. At the same time, a switch included in the power generator is turned on to perform power generation with fuel supplied from the fuel supply portion12. When the power generation is performed in positions shown inFIGS. 5B and 6A, air is taken in from the vents15a,15b,25aand25bformed in the two power generation casings to cool the power generation elements11, and release moisture produced by the power generation from the vents15a,15b,25aand25bin the direction of arrow A (upward).

Particularly, when the power generation is performed in the position inFIG. 6A, air is exhausted from the vent15bthrough a space17formed between the outer surface11bof the first power generation casing10and a placement surface. The outer surface11bof the first power generation casing10has a recess for forming the space17.

With such a configuration, the four vents15a,25a,15band25bformed in the inner surfaces11aand21aand the outer surface11band21bof the two power generation casings can be used, thereby ensuring large surface areas of the power generation elements required for power generation, and allowing moisture produced by the power generation to be efficiently released.

On the other hand, in the state where the two casings are closed, as shown inFIG. 6B, the power generation elements11are cooled through the vents15a,25a,15band25b, a space29formed between the inner surface11aof the first power generation casing10and the inner surface21aof the second power generation casing20, and the space17formed between the outer surface11bof the first power generation casing10and the placement surface. At the same time, moisture produced by the power generation is released from the vents15a,15b,25aand25bin the direction of arrow A (upward). With such a configuration, a sufficient amount of air can be supplied to the first power generation casing10and the second power generation casing20even in the state where the two power generation casings are closed to increase exhaust efficiency.

Next, a portable power generator according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference toFIGS. 7 to 10.FIG. 7shows an appearance of the power generator according to the third embodiment,FIG. 7Ais a top view,FIG. 7Bis a front view, andFIG. 7Cis a right side view.FIG. 8shows the state of use of the power generator according to the third embodiment.FIG. 9schematically shows the state of use of the power generator according to the third embodiment,FIG. 9Ais a side view of a state with a small opening angle, andFIG. 9Bis a side view of a state with a large opening angle.FIG. 10shows an modified example of the power generator according to the third embodiment.

The power generator according to the third embodiment has a feature in that a fuel supply portion (a main casing) has a connecting mechanism, and a first power generation casing and a second power generation casing are openably and closably connected using the fuel supply portion as a pivot.

InFIGS. 7 and 8, the power generator3according to the embodiment includes a first power generation casing200having a power generation element11therein, a second power generation casing210having a power generation element11therein, and a fuel supply portion220that openably and closably connects the two casings. An internal configuration of the fuel supply portion220is the same as in the first embodiment, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

The first power generation casing200includes a vent15aformed in an inner surface200a(seeFIG. 1), a vent15bformed in an outer surface200b, and a lid portion230provided to cover the vent15b. The second power generation casing210includes a vent25aformed in an inner surface210a, a vent25bformed in an outer surface210b, and a lid portion240provided to cover the vent25b.

The lid portions230and240are openably and closably mounted using the fuel supply portion220as a pivot, and opened during power generation to open the vents15band25b, thereby ensuring surface areas of the power generation elements required for power generation, and allowing moisture produced by the power generation to be released from the vents15band25a.

On the other hand, at the stop of the power generation, the lid portions230and240are closed to prevent the power generation elements11from drying, and prevent dust from adhering to the power generation elements11and the vents15band25b.

The fuel supply portion220may have a structure including the fuel cartridge. In this case, a connection terminal131(seeFIG. 4) is provided at one end along the length, and a fuel inlet port130is provided at the other end. According to the embodiment, the fuel supply portion220can be formed into a cylindrical shape, and can house a cylindrical fuel cartridge in a compact manner. The two power generation casings can be folded along an outer periphery of the cylindrical shape, which simplifies a structure of a connecting portion.

In the embodiment, the diameter of the cylindrical shape is substantially the same as the thickness of the two casings placed on top of each other. This provides a substantially rectangular compact form having a high housing property when housed, and makes the size of the fuel supply portion220unnoticeable in use.

Next, a power generation operation of the power generator according to the third embodiment will be described. In the power generator3according to the embodiment, the two casings are opened at a predetermined angle, for example, 45 degrees to turn on an unshown switch included in the power generator3and start power generation. With the start of the power generation, the lid portions230and240are opened to open the vents15band25b.

During the power generation, the power generation elements11are cooled by air taken in from the vents15band25b, and moisture produced by the power generation is released from the vents15aand25ain the direction of arrow A (upward). Particularly, the power generator3according to the embodiment can be used in an opened and standing state as shown inFIG. 9, and an opening angle θ1 between the two casings is desirably 30 degrees<θ1<90 degrees in consideration of balance in the standing state.

Such a configuration allows natural convection to easily occur, and allows a fuel cell (a power generation portion) to be sufficiently cooled without heat being accumulated. Further, a chimney effect facilitates the natural convection.

In the embodiment, the structure in which the two casings are tightly closed by the pair of lid portions230and240is used, but as shown inFIG. 10, a simpler structure may be used with the pair of lid portions230and240being removed. Also with such a configuration, power generation can be performed as in the above described embodiment, and the same advantages can be obtained.

Next, a portable power generator according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference toFIGS. 11 and 12.FIG. 11shows an internal layout of the power generator according to the fourth embodiment in a closed state,FIG. 11Ais a front view, andFIG. 11Bis a bottom plan view.FIG. 12shows an internal layout of the power generator according to the fourth embodiment in an opened state.

The power generator according to the fourth embodiment has a feature in that three generation casings each having a power generation element are openably and closably connected via a connecting portion.

InFIGS. 11 and 12, the power generator4according to the embodiment includes a first power generation casing300having a power generation element11and a fuel supply portion330therein, a second power generation casing310and a third power generation casing320having power generation elements11therein, and a connecting portion that connects the three generation casing. A configuration of the second power generation casing310is the same as in the first embodiment, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted. A configuration of the third power generation casing320is the same as the configuration of the second power generation casing310, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

The fuel supply portion330includes a first fuel cartridge331that supplies fuel to the first power generation casing300, a second fuel cartridge332that supplies fuel to the second power generation casing310, a first cartridge housing portion333that houses the first fuel cartridge331, and a second cartridge housing portion334that houses the second fuel cartridge332.

The first cartridge housing portion333includes, at an end thereof, a first governor123athat controls the fuel supplied from the first fuel cartridge331. The second cartridge housing portion334includes, at an end thereof, a second governor123bthat controls the fuel supplied from the second fuel cartridge332.

The first power generation casing300includes the power generation element11, the fuel supply portion330, a control portion124that collectively controls the power generator4, an external interface125connected to an external device, and a main board126to which these components are mounted.

The connecting portion includes a first connecting portion31that connects the power generation element11to the fuel supply portion330inside the first power generation casing300, a second connecting portion361that openably and closably connects the first power generation casing300to the second power generation casing310, a third connecting portion362that openably and closably connects the first power generation casing300to the third power generation casing320, a first connector363that connects the power generation element11of the first power generation casing300to the power generation element11of the second power generation casing310, and a second connector364that connects the fuel supply portion330to the power generation element11of the third power generation casing320.

Configurations of the second connecting portion361and the third connecting portion362are the same as in the first embodiment, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

The first connecting portion31has a structure in which a fuel supply passage (a pipe62) can be provided, and is connected via the pipe62to the first governor123ato which the first fuel cartridge331is mounted, and the fuel is supplied from the first governor123ato the power generation element11through the pipe62.

The first connector363has a structure in which a fuel supply passage can be provided, and is connected to one end of a fuel tube63placed so as to surround the second connecting portion361. The other end of the fuel tube63is connected to the power generation element11of the first power generation casing300to connect the two power generation elements11, and the fuel supplied from the fuel supply portion330is supplied to the second power generation casing310through the fuel tube63.

The second connector364has a structure in which a fuel supply passage can be provided, and is connected to one end of the fuel tube63placed so as to surround the second connecting portion361. The other end of the fuel tube63is connected to the second governor123bto connect the fuel supply portion330and the power generation element11of the third power generation casing320, and the fuel supplied from the fuel supply portion330is supplied to the third power generation casing320through the pipe62and the fuel tube63.

As shown inFIG. 12, in the power generator4according to the embodiment, the second power generation casing310and the third power generation casing320can be opened and closed within a range of 0 degree<θ2<180 degrees in the direction of arrow B with respect to the first power generation casing300.

In the power generator4with such a configuration, for example, the second power generation casing310and the third power generation casing320are rotated in the direction of arrow B to open vents15aand25aprovided in inner surfaces and outer surfaces of the two power generation casings, and turn on a switch included in the power generator4to perform power generation. Then, generated electric power is supplied to a compact portable terminal such as a mobile phone or a personal digital assistant, and moisture produced by the power generation is released from vents15a,15b,25aand25bin the direction of arrow A.

With such a construction, large surface areas of the power generation elements required for power generation can be ensured, thereby allowing moisture produced by the power generation to be efficiently released. Further, the second power generation casing310and the third power generation casing320can be folded and housed at the stop of the power generation, thereby providing a compact form.

In the embodiment, the structure in which the vents are provided in the inner surfaces and the outer surfaces of the power generation casings is used, but vents may be provided only in the inner surfaces of the power generation casings. Also with such a configuration, power generation can be performed as in the above described embodiment, and the same advantages can be obtained.

Next, a portable power generator according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference toFIGS. 13 to 15.FIG. 13shows an internal layout of the power generator according to the fifth embodiment in a closed state,FIG. 13Ais a front view, andFIG. 13Bis a bottom plan view.FIG. 14shows an internal layout of the power generator according to the fifth embodiment in an opened state,FIG. 14Ais a front view, andFIG. 14Bis a bottom plan view.FIG. 15shows an modified example of the power generator according to the fifth embodiment.

The power generator according to the fifth embodiment has a feature in that two power generation casings are connected rotatably in a horizontal direction around a pivot provided perpendicularly to the width of the power generator.

InFIGS. 13 and 14, the power generator5according to the embodiment includes a first power generation casing10and a second power generation casing20having power generation elements11therein, a main casing30having a fuel supply portion12therein, and a connecting portion that connects the casings. Configurations of the first power generation casing10and the second power generation casing20, and a configuration of the fuel supply portion12are the same as in the first embodiment, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

The connecting portion includes a first connecting portion31that connects the main casing30to the first power generation casing10, a second connecting portion400that connects the first power generation casing10to the second power generation casing20, and a connector33that connects the two power generation elements11.

The second connecting portion400includes a bearing portion410formed at one end along the length of the first power generation casing10, and a pivot420formed at one end (on the side of the connector) along the length of the second power generation casing20. The second connecting portion400is placed in the middles of one end along the length of the first power generation casing10and one end along the length of the second power generation casing20. The second connecting portion400rotates the second power generation casing20in the direction of arrow C, that is, a horizontal direction.

The other end of the second power generation casing20(the side of the main casing) is formed into an arcuate shape so that the rotation in the horizontal direction can be smoothly performed.

A power generator5ainFIG. 15includes a second connecting portion400in a different position, and the second connecting portion400is placed at end portions in one ends along the length of power generation casings. The other end along the length of a second power generation casing10is formed into an arcuate shape as in the above described embodiment so that the rotation in the horizontal direction (the direction of arrow C) can be performed smoothly.

In the power generator5or5ahaving such a configuration, for example, the second power generation casing20is rotated in the direction of arrow C to open vents15aand25aprovided in inner surfaces11aand21aand outer surfaces11band21bof the two power generation casings, and turn on an unshown switch included in the power generators5or5ato perform power generation. Then, generated electric power is supplied to a compact portable terminal such as a mobile phone or a personal digital assistant, and moisture produced by the power generation is released from vents15a,15b,25aand25bin the direction of arrow A.

With such a configuration, the plurality of vents can be provided in one power generation casing. This ensures large surface areas of the power generation elements required for power generation, and allows releasing efficiency of moisture produced by the power generation to be increased.

In the embodiment, the structure in which the vents are provided in the inner surfaces and the outer surfaces of the power generation casings is used, but vents may be provided only in the inner surfaces of the power generation casings. Also with such a configuration, power generation can be performed as in the above described embodiment, and the same advantages can be obtained.

Next, a portable power generator according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference toFIGS. 16 and 17.FIG. 16shows an appearance of the power generator according to the sixth embodiment,FIG. 16Ais a top view,FIG. 16Bis a front view, andFIG. 16Cis a right side view.FIG. 17shows the state of use of the power generator according to the sixth embodiment.

The power generator according to the sixth embodiment has a feature in that a plurality of power generation elements are placed in one power generation casing.

InFIGS. 16 and 17, the power generator6according to the embodiment includes a first casing510having a power generation element11and a fuel supply portion500therein, a second casing520having a plurality of power generation elements11therein, and a connecting portion530that openably and closably connects the two casings. In the embodiment, two power generation elements11are shown to be placed in the second power generation casing520.

The first power generation casing510has a substantially rectangular appearance, and has the power generation element11and the fuel supply portion500that are placed in the front and back and connected by a fuel supply passage constituted by an unshown pipe or fuel tube. The second power generation casing520has a substantially rectangular appearance, and has the two power generation elements11that are placed in the front and back and connected by a fuel supply passage constituted by an unshown pipe or fuel tube.

The connecting portion530is provided in the center of the power generator6, and connects the first power generation casing510to the second power generation casing520so that the first power generation casing510or the second power generation casing520is rotatable in the direction of arrow D (a horizontal direction).

In the power generator6having such a configuration, for example, the second power generation casing520is rotated in the direction of arrow D to open vents15aand25aprovided in inner surfaces11aand21aof the two power generation casings, and turn on an unshown switch included in the power generator to perform power generation. Then, generated electric power is supplied to a compact portable terminal such as a mobile phone or a personal digital assistant, and moisture produced by the power generation is released from vents15a,15b,25aand25bin the direction of arrow A.

With such a configuration, the plurality of vents can be provided in the inner surface and the outer surface of one power generation casing. This ensures large surface areas of the power generation elements required for power generation, and allows power generation efficiency and moisture releasing efficiency to be increased.

In the embodiment, the structure in which the vents are provided in the inner surfaces and the outer surfaces of the power generation casings is used, but vents may be provided only in the inner surfaces of the power generation casings. Also with such a configuration, power generation can be performed as in the above described embodiment, and the same advantages can be obtained.

Next, a portable power generator according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference toFIGS. 18 to 21.FIG. 18shows an internal layout of the power generator according to the seventh embodiment in a closed state,FIG. 18Ais a front view, andFIG. 18Bis a bottom plan view.FIG. 19shows an internal layout of the power generator according to the seventh embodiment in an opened state,FIG. 19Ais a front view, andFIG. 19Bis a bottom plan view.FIG. 20is a sectional view of the power generator according to the seventh embodiment.FIG. 21shows an modified example or the power generator according to the seventh embodiment.

The power generator according to the seventh embodiment has a feature in that a first power generation casing and a second power generation casing are slidably connected via a slide mechanism.

InFIGS. 18 to 20, the power generator7according to the embodiment includes a first power generation casing10and second power generation casing20having power generation elements11therein, a main casing30having a fuel supply portion12therein, and a connecting portion that connects the casings. Configurations of the first power generation casing10and the second power generation casing20, and a configuration of the fuel supply portion12are the same as in the first embodiment, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

The connecting portion includes a first connecting portion31that connects the main casing30to the first power generation casing10, a second connecting portion that connects the first power generation casing10to the second power generation casing20, and a connector33that connects the two power generation elements11.

The second connecting portion includes a rail610provided on the first power generation casing10and a sliding portion620provided on the second power generation casing20, and configures a slide mechanism such that the rail610and the sliding portion620are fitted to connect the second power generation casing20slidably in the direction of arrow E1(along the length of the casing).

A power generator7ainFIG. 21includes a second power generation casing20in a different slide direction, and the second power generation casing20is connected slidably in the direction of arrow E2(along the width of the casing) via a slide mechanism.

In the power generator7or7ahaving such a configuration, the second power generation casing20is slid in the direction of arrow E1or E2to open vents15aand25aprovided in inner surfaces11aand21aof the two power generation casings, and turn on an unshown switch included in the power generator7or7ato perform power generation. Then, generated electric power is supplied to a compact portable device such as a mobile phone or a personal digital assistant, and moisture produced by the power generation is released from the vents15aand25a, and vents15band25bformed in outer surfaces11band21bin the direction of arrow A (upward).

With such a configuration, as in the above described embodiment, power generation efficiency and moisture releasing efficiency can be increased in use. Also, the power generator may have high portability and a high housing property when not used.

In the embodiment, the structure in which the vents are provided in the inner surfaces and the outer surfaces of the power generation casings is used, but vents may be provided only in the inner surfaces of the power generation casings. Also with such a configuration, power generation can be performed as in the above described embodiment, and the same advantages can be obtained.

Next, a portable power generator according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference toFIGS. 22 and 23.FIG. 22shows an appearance of the power generator according to the eighth embodiment,FIG. 22Ais a top view,FIG. 22Bis a front view, andFIG. 22Cis a right side view.FIG. 23shows the state of use of the power generator according to the eighth embodiment,FIG. 23Ais a front view, andFIG. 23Bis a right side view.

The power generator according to the eighth embodiment has a feature in that a main casing having a fuel supply portion is vertically slidably connected.

InFIG. 22, the power generator8according to the embodiment includes a power generation casing800having a plurality of power generation elements11therein, and a main casing810slidably mounted to the power generation casing800. A configuration of the main casing810is the same as in the above described embodiments, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

The power generation casing800includes a housing portion820that houses the main casing810, and three power generation elements11placed to surround three sides of the housing portion820. A plurality of vents830are provided in the front of the power generation casing800.

In the power generator8having such a configuration, as shown inFIG. 23, the main casing810is slid in the direction of arrow F1(upward) by an unshown slide mechanism to open the vents830provided in the front, and turn on an unshown switch included in the power generator8to perform power generation. Generated electric power is supplied to a compact portable device such as a mobile phone or a personal digital assistant to charge a battery. Air taken in from the vents830provided in the front is guided to the power generation elements11to cool the power generation elements11, and release moisture produced by power generation from vents15aand15bin the direction of arrow A (upward).

With such a construction, the plurality of vents can be provided in the inner surface and the outer surface of one power generation casing. This ensures large surface areas of the power generation elements required for power generation, and allows power generation efficiency and moisture releasing efficiency to be increased.

Next, a portable power generator according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference toFIGS. 24 and 25.FIG. 24shows an appearance of the power generator according to the ninth embodiment,FIG. 24Ais a top view,FIG. 24Bis a front view, andFIG. 24Cis a right side view.FIG. 25shows the state of use of the power generator according to the ninth embodiment,FIG. 25Ais a front view, andFIG. 25Bis a right side view.

The power generator according to the ninth embodiment has a feature in that a fuel supply portion is vertically slidably connected as in the power generator according to the eighth embodiment.

InFIG. 24, the power generator9according to the embodiment includes a power generation casing800having a plurality of power generation elements11therein, and a main casing810slidably mounted to the power generation casing800. A configuration of the main casing810is the same as in the above described embodiments, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

The power generation casing800includes a housing portion850that houses the main casing810, and three power generation elements11placed to surround three sides of the housing portion820. The housing portion850has a Π-shaped plane shape with an open front.

In the power generator9having such a configuration, as shown inFIG. 25, the main casing810is slid in the direction of arrow F1(upward) by an unshown slide mechanism to open the housing portion850, and turn on an unshown switch included in the power generator9to perform power generation. The generated electric power is supplied to a compact portable device such as a mobile phone or a personal digital assistant to charge a battery. Air taken in from the housing portion850is guided to the power generation elements11to cool the power generation elements11, and release moisture produced by the power generation from vents15aand15bin the direction of arrow A (upward).

Also with such a configuration, the same advantage as in the eighth embodiment can be obtained.

Next, a portable power generator according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference toFIG. 26.FIG. 26shows the power generator according to the tenth embodiment,FIG. 26Ais a side view, andFIG. 26Bis a side view of the state of use.

The power generator according to the tenth embodiment has a feature in that a first power generation casing and a second power generation casing are structurally separated in use.

InFIG. 26, the power generator900according to the embodiment includes a first power generation casing910having a power generation element11therein, a second power generation casing920having a power generation element11therein, a main casing930having a fuel supply portion therein, and a connecting portion that openably and closably connects the first power generation casing910to the second power generation casing920. Configurations of the first power generation casing910, the second power generation casing920, and the main casing930are the same as in the above described embodiments, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

The connecting portion is constituted by a pair of connecting rods941mounted to the first power generation casing910and the second power generation casing920via a pivot940, and the second power generation casing920is moved in the direction of arrow J to enter a state where the first power generation casing910and the second power generation casing920are structurally separated, that is, a power generation state (state of use).

The connecting portion has a structure in which a fuel supply passage such as a fuel supply pipe or a fuel tube can be provided, and the two power generation elements11are connected by the pipe or the fuel tube.

In the power generator900having such a configuration, the second power generation casing920is moved in the direction of arrow G via the pair of connecting rods941to turn on an unshown included switch to perform power generation. Moisture produced by the power generation is released from vents15aand15b.

With such a configuration, a space can be provided around the power generation casings, thereby increasing moisture releasing efficiency.

In the embodiment, the structure in which the vents are provided in the inner surfaces and the outer surfaces of the power generation casings is used, but vents may be provided only in the inner surfaces of the power generation casings. Also with such a configuration, power generation can be performed as in the above described embodiment, and the same advantages can be obtained.

Next, a power generator according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference toFIG. 27.FIG. 27shows the power generator according to the eleventh embodiment,FIG. 27Ais a side view, andFIG. 27Bis a side view of the state of use.

The power generator according to the eleventh embodiment has a feature in that a first casing and a second casing are separated in use like the power generator according to the tenth embodiment.

InFIG. 27, the power generator1000according to the embodiment includes a first power generation casing910having a power generation element11therein, a second power generation casing920having a power generation element11therein, a main casing930having a fuel supply portion therein, and a connecting portion that openably and closably connects the first power generation casing910to the second power generation casing920. Configurations of the first power generation casing910, the second power generation casing920, and the main casing930are the same as in the above described embodiments, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

The connecting portion is constituted by two connecting rods1020connected via a pivot1010, and groove portions1030to which the two connecting rods1020are mounted, and the connecting rods1020are moved along the groove portions1030to enter a state where the first power generation casing910and the second power generation casing920are structurally separated (a power generation state).

The connecting portion has a structure in which a fuel supply pipe or a fuel tube can be provided, and the two power generation elements11are connected by the pipe or the fuel tube.

In the power generator1000having such a configuration, the second power generation casing920is moved in the direction of arrow G via the two connecting rods1020to turn on an unshown included switch to perform power generation. Moisture produced by the power generation is released from vents15aand25a(seeFIG. 26).

With such a configuration, a space can be provided around the power generation casings as in the tenth embodiment, thereby increasing moisture releasing efficiency.

In the embodiment, the structure in which the vents are provided in the inner surfaces and the outer surfaces of the power generation casings is used, but vents may be provided only in the inner surfaces of the power generation casings. Also with such a configuration, power generation can be performed as in the above described embodiment, and the same advantages can be obtained.

As described above, the power generator according to the present invention includes the plurality of power generation elements, and the fuel supply portion that communicates with the plurality of power generation elements through the fuel supply passage (the pipe), the plurality of power generation elements are housed in the plurality of independent power generation casings having the vent portions (the vents), and the plurality of power generation casings are movably connected via the connecting portion so as to enter a housing state where the casings are placed on top of each other and a power generation state where the casings are separated (opened). Then, the fuel supply portion is provided in any one of the plurality of power generation casings, or housed in the main casing independent of the plurality of power generation casings, and movably connected to at least one of the power generation casings via the connecting portion.

The connecting portion foldably or slidably connects the plurality of power generation casings.

The vent portions are provided in the inner surfaces that are concealed in the housing state where the plurality of power generation casings are placed on top of each other, and the fuel supply passage is provided via the connector.