Eddy current heat generating apparatus

The disclosed heat generating apparatus includes: a rotary shaft, a heat generator, a plurality of permanent magnets, a magnet holder, and a heat recovery system. The rotary shaft is rotatably supported by a non-rotative body. The heat generator is fixed to the rotary shaft. The magnets are arrayed to face the heat generator with a gap such that magnetic pole arrangements of adjacent ones of the magnets are opposite to each other. The magnet holder holds the magnets and is fixed to the body. The heat recovery system collects heat generated in the heat generator.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a heat generating apparatus that recovers thermal energy from kinetic energy of a rotary shaft, and more particularly to an eddy current heat generating apparatus employing permanent magnets (hereinafter referred to simply as “magnets”) and utilizing eddy currents generated by the effects of magnetic fields from the magnets.

BACKGROUND ART

In recent years, generation of carbon dioxide accompanying burning of fossil fuels is acknowledged as a problem. Therefore, utilization of natural energy, such as solar thermal energy, wind energy, hydro-energy and the like, is promoted. Among the natural energy, wind energy and hydro-energy are kinetic energy of a fluid. Conventionally, electric power has been generated from kinetic energy of a fluid.

For example, in a typical wind electric generating facility, a propeller receives wind and thereby rotates. The rotary shaft of the propeller is connected to the input shaft of a power generator, and along with the rotation of the propeller, the input shaft of the power generator rotates. Thereby, electric power is generated in the power generator. In short, in a typical wind electric generating facility, wind energy is converted to kinetic energy of the rotary shaft of a propeller, and the kinetic energy of the rotary shaft is converted to electric energy.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2011-89492 (Patent Literature 1) suggests a wind electric generating facility with improved energy use efficiency. The electric generating facility disclosed in Patent Literature 1 includes a heat generator (retarder 30 in Patent Literature 1) that generates thermal energy in the process of converting wind energy to electric energy.

In the wind electric generating facility disclosed in Patent Literature 1, wind energy is converted to kinetic energy of the rotary shaft of a propeller, and the kinetic energy of the propeller is converted to hydraulic energy of a hydraulic pump. The hydraulic energy rotates a hydraulic motor. The spindle of the hydraulic motor is connected to the rotary shaft of the heat generator, and the rotary shaft of the heat generator is connected to the input shaft of a power generator. Along with rotation of the hydraulic motor, the rotary shaft of the heat generator rotates, and the input shaft of the power generator rotates, whereby electricity is generated in the power generator.

The heat generator utilizes eddy currents generated by the effects of magnetic fields from permanent magnets to reduce the rotational speed of the rotary shaft of the heat generator. Accordingly, the rotational speed of the spindle of the hydraulic motor is reduced, and the rotational speed of the propeller is adjusted via the hydraulic pump.

In the heat generator, the generation of eddy currents leads to generation of braking force to reduce the rotational speed of the rotary shaft of the heat generator, and generation of heat as well. Thus, a part of wind energy is converted to thermal energy. According to Patent Literature 1, the heat (thermal energy) is collected in a heat storage device, and the motor is driven by the collected thermal energy, whereby the power generator is driven. Consequently, electricity is generated in the power generator.

CITATION LIST

Patent Literature

Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2011-89492

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

Technical Problems

The wind electric generating facility disclosed in Patent Literature 1 includes a hydraulic pump and a hydraulic motor between a propeller that is a rotary shaft and a heat generator. Thus, the structure of the facility is complicated. Also, multistage energy conversion is necessary, and a large energy loss is caused during the energy conversion. Accordingly, the thermal energy obtained in the heat generator is small.

In the heat generator disclosed in Patent Literature 1, a plurality of magnets are circumferentially arrayed to face the whole circumference of the inner peripheral surface of a cylindrical rotor. The magnetic poles (the north pole and the south pole) of each of the magnets are circumferentially arranged, and the magnetic pole arrangements of adjacent ones of the circumferentially arrayed magnets are the same. Therefore, the magnetic fields of the magnets do not spread, and the magnetic flux density reaching the rotor is low. Then, the eddy currents generated in the rotor by the effects of magnetic fields from the magnets are low, and it is not possible to achieve sufficient heat generation.

The present invention has been made in view of the current situation. An object of the present invention is to provide an eddy current heat generating apparatus that is capable of efficiently recovering thermal energy from kinetic energy of a rotary shaft.

Solution to Problem

An eddy current heat generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention includes:

a rotary shaft rotatably supported by a non-rotative member;

a heat generator fixed to the rotary shaft;

a plurality of permanent magnets arrayed to face the heat generator with a gap such that magnetic pole arrangements of adjacent ones of the permanent magnets are opposite to each other;

a magnet holder holding the permanent magnets and fixed to the non-rotative member; and

a heat recovery system collecting heat generated in the heat generator.

Advantageous Effects of Invention

In the eddy current heat generating apparatus according to the present invention, the magnetic pole arrangements of adjacent ones of the magnets arrayed to face the heat generator are opposite to each other. Accordingly, the magnetic fields of the magnets spread out, and the magnetic flux density reaching the heat generator becomes high. Accordingly, the eddy currents generated in the heat generator by the effects of magnetic fields from the magnets become high, thereby allowing for a sufficient amount of heat generation. Thus, according to the present invention, thermal energy can be recovered from the kinetic energy of the rotary shaft efficiently.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Embodiments of the present invention will hereinafter be described. In the following, the embodiments of the present invention will be described with some examples given. However, the present invention is not limited to the examples that will be given below. In the following, specific values and materials may be presented as examples, but other values and materials may be used as long as the use of those values and materials provides the effect of the present invention.

An eddy current heat generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a rotary shaft, a heat generator, a plurality of permanent magnets, a magnet holder, and a heat recovery system. The rotary shaft is rotatably supported by a non-rotative member. The heat generator is fixed to the rotary shaft. The plurality of permanent magnets are arrayed to face the heat generator with a gap such that the magnetic pole arrangements of adjacent ones of the magnets are opposite to each other. The magnet holder holds the permanent magnets, and is fixed to the non-rotative member. The heat recovery system collects heat generated in the heat generator.

At least a part of the heat generator is made of a material that causes electromagnetic induction (specifically, a conductive material). It is preferred that at least the portion of the heat generator adjacent to the magnets is made of such a material that causes electromagnetic induction. Specific examples of the material for the heat generator will be given later.

In the eddy current heat generating apparatus according to the present embodiment, since the magnetic pole arrangements of adjacent ones of the magnets arrayed to face the heat generator are opposite to each other, the magnetic fields of the magnets spread out, and the magnetic flux density reaching the heat generator is high. Accordingly, high eddy currents are generated by the effects of magnetic fields from the magnets, and sufficient heat generation can be achieved. Thus, it is possible to recover thermal energy from kinetic energy of the rotary shaft efficiently.

In the heat generating apparatus, the heat recovery system may include a closed container, pipes, a heat storage device, and a heat medium. The closed container is fixed to the non-rotative member and surrounds the heat generator, and the closed container has a non-magnetic partition wall disposed in the gap between the heat generator and the permanent magnets. The pipes are connected to an inlet and an outlet, respectively, leading to the internal space of the closed container. The heat storage device is connected to the pipes. The heat medium circulates in the closed container, the pipes and the heat storage device.

There are no special limitations to the heat storage device, and a known heat storage device where thermal energy carried by the heat medium can be stored is usable. There are no special limitations to the heat medium, and a known heat medium is usable. The heat medium may be, for example, molten salt of a nitrate-based material (for example, mixed salt of sodium nitrate: 60% and potassium nitrate: 40%). Alternatively, heat medium oil, water (steam), air, supercritical CO2or the like may be used.

The partition wall is preferably made of a non-magnetic material so as not to block the magnetic fluxes from the magnets from reaching the heat generator. Examples of materials usable for the partition wall include aluminum alloys, austenite stainless steel, copper alloys, high heat resistance resin and ceramics. The surface of the partition wall facing the heat generator may be a mirror surface with high smoothness. This reduces heat transfer from the heat generator to the magnets.

In this case, it is preferred that the space between the heat generator and the partition wall is filled with a heat insulating material or alternatively is made vacuum.

The heat generating apparatus may be an apparatus that recovers thermal energy from kinetic energy of the rotary shaft rotated by kinetic energy of a fluid. The kinetic energy of a fluid includes natural energy such as wind power and hydraulic power. Kinetic energy obtained from natural energy is variable, but the heat generating apparatus can recover thermal energy even from such variable kinetic energy without decreasing the efficiency very much.

It is preferred that the heat generating apparatus further includes a cooling system for cooling the permanent magnets.

In the heat generating apparatus, the heat generator may be cylindrical, and the permanent magnets may be circumferentially arrayed to face the whole circumference of the outer peripheral surface of the heat generator such that the magnetic poles of each of the magnets are radially arranged and such that the magnetic pole arrangements of adjacent ones of the circumferentially arrayed magnets are opposite to each other. In this case, the magnet holder preferably includes a cylindrical member holding the permanent magnets on its inner peripheral surface, and the cylindrical member is preferably ferromagnetic. Examples of such ferromagnetic materials usable for the magnet holder include ferromagnetic metal materials (for example, carbon steel, cast iron and the like).

In the heat generating apparatus, the heat generator may be cylindrical, and the permanent magnets may be circumferentially arrayed to face the whole circumference of the outer peripheral surface of the heat generator such that the magnetic poles of each of the magnets are circumferentially arranged and such that the magnetic pole arrangements of adjacent ones of the circumferentially arrayed magnets are opposite to each other. In this case, the magnet holder preferably includes a cylindrical member holding the permanent magnets on its inner peripheral surface, and the cylindrical member is preferably non-magnetic. Further, it is preferred that pole pieces are provided between the circumferentially arrayed magnets. Examples of such non-magnetic materials usable for the magnet holder include non-magnetic metal materials (for example, aluminum alloys, austenitic stainless steel, copper alloys and the like).

In the heat generating apparatus, the heat generator may be cylindrical, and the permanent magnets may be axially arrayed to face the whole axial length of the outer peripheral surface of the heat generator such that the magnetic poles of each of the magnets are axially arranged and such that the magnetic pole arrangements of adjacent ones of the axially arrayed magnets are opposite to each other. In this case, the magnet holder preferably includes a cylindrical member holding the permanent magnets on its inner peripheral surface, and the cylindrical member is preferably non-magnetic. Further, it is preferred that pole pieces are provided between the axially arrayed magnets and at both ends of the axial array of permanent magnets.

In the heat generating apparatus, the heat generator may be disk-shaped, and the permanent magnets may be circumferentially arrayed to face the whole circumference of the principal surface of the heat generator such that the magnetic poles of each of the magnets are axially arranged and such that the magnetic pole arrangements of adjacent ones of the circumferentially arrayed magnets are opposite to each other. In this case, the magnet holder may include a disk-shaped member holding the permanent magnets on its surface facing the principal surface of the heat generator, and the disk-shaped member may be ferromagnetic.

In the heat generating apparatus, the heat generator may be disk-shaped, and the permanent magnets may be circumferentially arrayed to face the whole circumference of the principal surface of the heat generator such that the magnetic poles of each of the magnets are circumferentially arrayed and such that the magnetic pole arrangements of adjacent ones of the circumferentially arrayed magnets are opposite to each other. In this case, the magnet holder preferably includes a disk-shaped member holding the permanent magnets on its surface facing the principal surface of the heat generator, and the disk-shaped member is preferably non-magnetic. Further, it is preferred that pole pieces are provided between the circumferentially arrayed magnets.

In the heat generating apparatus, the heat generator may be disk-shaped, and the permanent magnets may be radially arrayed to face the whole radius of the principal surface of the heat generator such that the magnetic poles of each of the magnets are radially arranged and such that the magnetic pole arrangements of adjacent ones of the radially arrayed magnets are opposite to each other. In this case, the magnet holder preferably includes a disk-shaped member holding the permanent magnets on its surface facing the principal surface of the heat generator, and the disk-shaped member is preferably non-magnetic. Further, it is preferred that pole pieces are provided between the radially arrayed magnets and at both ends of the radial array of permanent magnets.

The apparatuses of the type including a cylindrical heat generator have some advantages as follows over the apparatuses of the type including a disk-shaped heat generator. In any of the apparatuses of the former type, it is easy to keep the relative speed of the heat generator to the permanent magnets high and constant, and accordingly, the apparatus is excellent in heat generation efficiency. Also, the apparatuses of the former type are easy to be reduced in size as compared with the apparatuses of the latter type.

In any of the above-described heat generating apparatuses, the heat generator may be made of one or more kinds of conductive magnetic materials.

In any of the above-described heat generating apparatuses, the heat generator may be made of at least a conductive ferromagnetic material and a conductive non-magnetic material, and the conductive non-magnetic material may be disposed close to the permanent magnets. Examples of such ferromagnetic materials include conductive ferromagnetic metal materials which will be described later. Examples of such conductive non-magnetic materials include conductive non-magnetic metal materials which will be described later.

Any of the above-described heat generating apparatuses can be mounted in an electric generating facility utilizing kinetic energy of a fluid (for example, natural energy such as wind energy and hydro-energy), such as a wind electric generating facility, a hydroelectric generating facility or the like. For example, by replacing the power-generating unit in a known wind electric or hydroelectric generating facility with one of the above-described heat generating apparatuses, it is possible to generate thermal energy. Accordingly, the structure of a known electric generating facility can be applied to the portions other than the heat generating apparatus. Also, any of the above-described heat generating apparatuses can be mounted in a vehicle. In either case, the heat generating apparatus recovers thermal energy from kinetic energy of a rotary shaft. The recovered thermal energy may be used for generation of electric energy.

Eddy current heat generating apparatuses according to some embodiments of the present invention will hereinafter be described.

First Embodiment

FIG. 1is a longitudinal sectional view of a heat generating apparatus according to a first embodiment.FIG. 2is a cross-sectional view of the heat generating apparatus according to the first embodiment. The heat generating apparatus illustrated inFIGS. 1 and 2is mounted in a wind electric generating facility. The heat generating apparatus1according to the first embodiment includes a rotary shaft3, a heat generator4, a plurality of permanent magnets5, and a magnet holder6. The rotary shaft3is rotatably supported by a fixed non-rotative body2via a bearing7.

The heat generator4is fixed to the rotary shaft3. The heat generator4includes a cylindrical member4A that is coaxial with the rotary shaft3, and a disk-shaped connection member4B connecting the cylindrical member4A and the rotary shaft3. A plurality of through holes4C are made in the connection member4B for weight saving and cooling. The magnet holder6is disposed in the outer side of the heat generator4, and it is fixed to the body2. The magnet holder6includes a cylindrical member6athat is coaxial with the rotary shaft3. The cylindrical member6aholds the magnets5.

The magnets5are fixed on the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical member6aso as to face the outer peripheral surface of the heat generator4(cylindrical member4A) with a gap. As seen inFIG. 2, the magnets5are circumferentially arrayed across the whole circumference. The magnetic poles (north pole and south pole) of each of the magnets5are radially arranged, and the magnetic pole arrangements of circumferentially adjacent ones of the magnets5are opposite to each other. In the first embodiment, the cylindrical member6adirectly holding the magnets5is made of a ferromagnetic material.

The heat generator4, and especially the outer peripheral surface layer facing the magnets5is made of a conductive material. As examples of the conductive material, ferromagnetic metal materials (for example, carbon steel, cast iron and the like), feebly magnetic metal materials (for example, ferritic stainless steel and the like), and non-magnetic metal materials (for example, aluminum alloys, austenitic stainless steel, copper alloys and the like) can be named.

A cylindrical partition wall15is disposed in the gap between the heat generator4and the magnets5. The partition wall15is fixed to the body2and defines a closed container surrounding the heat generator4. The partition wall15is made of a non-magnetic material. This is to prevent the partition wall15from exerting adverse effects on the magnetic fields from the magnets5to the heat generator4.

When the rotary shaft3rotates, the heat generator4rotate together with the rotary shaft3(see the outlined arrow inFIG. 1). This causes a relative rotational speed difference between the magnets5and the heat generator4. As shown inFIG. 2, the magnetic poles (north pole and south pole) of each of the magnets5facing the outer peripheral surface of the heat generator4are radially arranged, and the magnetic pole arrangements of circumferentially adjacent ones of the magnets5are opposite to each other. The cylindrical member6aholding the magnets5is ferromagnetic.

In the structure, the magnetic fluxes from the magnets5(the magnetic fields of the magnets5) are as follows. With regard to a first magnet5and a second magnet5that are adjacent to each other, the magnetic flux from the south pole of the first magnet5reaches the heat generator4(cylindrical member4A) facing the first magnet5. The magnetic flux that has reached the heat generator4reaches the north pole of the second magnet5. The magnetic flux from the south pole of the second magnet5reaches the north pole of the first magnet5via the cylindrical member Ga. Thus, the circumferentially adjacent magnets5form a magnetic circuit across the adjacent magnets5, the cylindrical member6aholding the magnets5, and the heat generator4. Such magnetic circuits are formed over the entire circumference such that adjacent magnetic fluxes are in opposite directions. Then, the magnetic fields of the magnets5spread out, and the magnetic flux density reaching the heat generator4becomes high.

In a state where there is a relative rotational speed difference between the magnets5and the heat generator4, the magnetic fields of the magnets5act on the heat generator4, thereby generating eddy currents along the outer peripheral surface of the heat generator4(cylindrical member4A). Interactions between the eddy currents and the magnetic flux density from the magnets5cause braking force acting on the heat generator4, which is rotating together with the rotary shaft3, in the reverse direction to the rotational direction, according to Fleming's left-hand rule.

The generation of eddy currents causes heat generation of the heat generator4along with the generation of braking force. As described above, the magnetic flux density reaching the heat generator4is high, and therefore, the eddy currents generated in the heat generator4by the effects of magnetic fields from the magnets5are high, thereby resulting in achievement of sufficient heat generation.

The heat generating apparatus1includes a heat recovery system to collect and utilize the heat generated in the heat generator4. In the first embodiment, the heat recovery system includes an inlet11and an outlet12made in the body2, which defines the closed container together with the partition wall15, and leading to the internal space of the closed container, that is, the space where the heat generator4is located (the space hereinafter referred to as “heat generator lying space”). An inlet pipe and an outlet pipe, which are not shown in the drawings, are connected to the inlet11and the outlet12, respectively, of the heat generator lying space. The inlet pipe and the outlet pipe are connected to a heat storage device, which is not shown in the drawings. The heat generator lying space (internal space of the closed container), the inlet pipe, the outlet pipe and the heat storage device form a passage, and the heat medium flows and circulates in this passage (see the solid arrow inFIG. 1).

The heat generated in the heat generator4is transferred to the heat medium flowing in the heat generator lying space. The heat medium in the heat generator lying space is discharged from the heat generator lying space through the outlet12, and led to the heat storage device via the outlet pipe. The heat storage device receives heat from the heat medium by heat exchange, and stores the heat therein. The heat medium that has passed through the heat storage device flows into the inlet pipe, and returns to the heat generator lying space through the inlet11. In this way, the heat generated in the heat generator4is collected.

In the heat generating apparatus1according to the first embodiment, as described above, since sufficient heat generation is achieved by the heat generator4, it is possible to recover thermal energy from kinetic energy of the rotary shaft3efficiently. In the heat generating apparatus1, also, the heat generator4is held in the internal space of a closed container. Thereby, it is possible to reduce the loss of the thermal energy generated by the heat generator4.

The heat generating apparatus1according to the first embodiment may be mounted in a wind electric generating facility. For example, the power-generating apparatus of the wind electric generating facility may be replaced with the heat generating apparatus1according to the first embodiment. In other words, as illustrated inFIG. 1, the propeller20, which is a windmill, may be disposed on an extended line of the rotary shaft3of the heat generating apparatus1. The rotary shaft21of the propeller20is rotatably supported by the fixed body2via a bearing25. The rotary shaft21of the propeller20is connected to the rotary shaft3of the heat generating apparatus1via a clutch23and an accelerator24. Rotation of the rotary shaft21of the propeller20is accompanied by rotation of the rotary shaft3of the heat generating apparatus1. In this regard, the rotational speed of the rotary shaft3of the heat generating apparatus1is increased by the accelerator24to become higher than the rotational speed of the rotary shaft21of the propeller20. As the accelerator24, for example, a planetary gear mechanism can be used.

In the wind electric generating facility, the propeller20receives wind and rotates (see the outlined arrow inFIG. 1). The rotation of the propeller20is accompanied by rotation of the rotary shaft3of the heat generating apparatus1, whereby heat is generated in the heat generator4, and the generated heat is stored in the heat storage device. Thus, the kinetic energy of the rotary shaft3of the heat generating apparatus1generated by rotation of the propeller20is partly converted to thermal energy, and the thermal energy is collected and stored. In this regard, between the propeller20and the heat generating apparatus1, there is no such thing as the hydraulic pump or hydraulic motor provided in the wind electric generating facility disclosed in Patent Literature 1, and the energy conversion loss is small. The heat stored in the heat storage device is utilized for electric generation by use of a thermal element, a Stirling engine, etc., for example.

The rotation of the rotary shaft3of the heat generating apparatus1causes generation of heat in the heat generator4and generation of braking force in the rotary shaft3to decelerate the rotation thereof. Thereby, the rotational speed of the propeller20is adjusted via the accelerator24and the clutch23. The clutch23has the following functions. When heat generation in the heat generating apparatus1is needed, the clutch23connects the rotary shaft21of the propeller20to the rotary shaft3of the heat generating apparatus1. Thereby, the rotating force of the propeller20is transmitted to the heat generating apparatus1. When heat generation is no longer necessary because heat is stored in the heat storage device to capacity or when the heat generating apparatus1needs to be stopped for maintenance, the clutch23disconnects the rotary shaft21of the propeller20from the rotary shaft3of the heat generating apparatus1. Thereby, the rotating force of the propeller20is not transmitted to the heat generating apparatus1. In order to prevent the propeller20from rotating freely by wind on the occasion, it is preferred that a brake system of a frictional type, an electromagnetic type or the like to stop the rotation of the propeller20is provided between the propeller20and the clutch23.

As described above, the eddy currents generated in the heat generator4(cylindrical member4A) cause heat generation in the heat generator4. Therefore, the magnets5may rise in temperature by heat from the heat generator4(for example, radiant heat), thereby decreasing the magnetic force of the magnets5. Therefore, it is preferred to take a measure to inhibit the temperature rise of the magnets5.

In this regard, in the heat generating apparatus1according to the first embodiment, the heat generated in the heat generator4is blocked by the partition wall15of the closed container. Thereby, the magnets5can be prevented from rising in temperature. In this case, it is preferred that the space between the magnets5and the partition wall15is filled with a heat insulating material or alternatively made vacuum. This ensures the blocking of the heat from the heat generator4.

FIG. 3is a cross-sectional view of a preferred example of a heat generator of the heat generating apparatus according to the first embodiment.FIG. 3is an enlarged view of the outer peripheral surface of the heat generator4(cylindrical member4A) facing the magnets5and its adjacent area. As seen inFIG. 3, the heat generator4includes a first layer4b, a second layer4cand an oxidation resistant coating4dstacked in this order on the outer peripheral surface of a base4a. The base4ais made of a conductive metal material with high pyroconductivity (for example, a copper alloy, an aluminum alloy or the like). The first layer4bis made of a ferromagnetic metal material (for example, carbon steel, cast iron or the like). The second layer4cis made of a non-magnetic or feebly magnetic metal material, and the material preferably has higher conductivity than the conductivity of the first layer4b(for example, an aluminum alloy, a copper alloy or the like). The oxidation resistant coating4dis, for example, a Ni (nickel) plated layer.

Buffer layers4eare provided between the base4aand the first layer4b, between the first layer4band the second layer4cand between the second layer4cand the oxidation resistant coating4d. Each of the buffer layers4ehas a linear expansion coefficient that is greater than the linear expansion coefficient of one of its adjacent materials and smaller than the linear expansion coefficient of the other of its adjacent materials. This is for prevention of delamination. The buffer layers4eare, for example, NiP (nickel-phosphorus) plated layers.

This layered structure increases the eddy currents generated in the heat generator4by the effects of magnetic fields from the magnets5, thereby resulting in achievement of great braking force and sufficient heat generation. However, the second layer4cmay be omitted, and further, the buffer layers4emay be omitted.

Second Embodiment

FIG. 4is a cross-sectional view of a heat generating apparatus according to a second embodiment. The heat generating apparatus1according to the second embodiment is based on the structure of the heat generating apparatus1according to the first embodiment. The same applies to the third and fourth embodiments which will be described later. The heat generating apparatus1according to the second embodiment differs from the heat generating apparatus1according to the first embodiment principally in the way of arranging the magnets5.

As shown inFIG. 4, the magnets5are circumferentially arrayed on the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical member6aacross the whole circumference. The magnetic poles (north pole and south pole) of each of the magnets5are circumferentially arranged, and the magnetic pole arrangements of circumferentially adjacent ones of the magnets5are opposite to each other. In the second embodiment, the cylindrical member6adirectly holding the magnets5is made of a non-magnetic material. Pole pieces made of a ferromagnetic material are provided between the circumferentially arrayed magnets5.

In the second embodiment, the magnetic fluxes from the magnets5(the magnetic fields of the magnets5) are as follows. Circumferentially adjacent magnets5are arranged such that the magnetic poles thereof with the same polarity face each other across a pole piece9. Also, the cylindrical member6aholding the magnets5is non-magnetic. Therefore, the magnetic fluxes from the south poles of these magnets5repel each other and reach the heat generator4(cylindrical member4A) via the pole piece9. The magnetic fluxes that have reached the heat generator4reach the north poles of the respective magnets5via pole pieces9respectively adjacent thereto. Thus, each of the magnets5forms a magnetic circuit across the magnet5, the adjacent pole pieces9and the heat generator4. Such magnetic circuits are formed over the entire circumference such that adjacent magnetic fluxes are in opposite directions. Then, the magnetic fields of the magnets5spread out, and the magnetic flux density reaching the heat generator4becomes high.

Accordingly, the heat generating apparatus1according to the second embodiment has the same effects as the heat generating apparatus according to the first embodiment.

Third Embodiment

FIG. 5is a longitudinal sectional view of a heat generating apparatus according to a third embodiment. The heat generating apparatus1according to the third embodiment differs from the heat generating apparatus1according to the first embodiment principally in the way of arranging the magnets5.

As shown inFIG. 5, the magnets5are axially arrayed on the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical member6aacross the whole axial length. The magnets5are cylindrical. The magnetic poles (north pole and south pole) of each of the magnets5are axially arranged such that the magnetic pole arrangements of axially adjacent ones of the magnets5are opposite to each other. In the third embodiment, the cylindrical member6adirectly holding the magnets5is made of a non-magnetic material as with the second embodiment. Pole pieces9made of a ferromagnetic material are provided between the axially arrayed magnets5. Further, pole pieces9are provided at both ends of the axial array of magnets5.

In the third embodiment, the magnetic fluxes from the magnets5(the magnetic fields of the magnets5) are as follows. Axially adjacent magnets5are arranged such that the magnetic poles thereof with the same magnetic polarity face each other across a pole piece9. Also, the cylindrical member6aholding the magnets5is non-magnetic. Therefore, the magnetic fluxes from the south poles of these magnets5repel each other and reach the heat generator4(cylindrical member4A) via the pole piece9. The magnetic fluxes that have reached the heat generator4reach the north poles of the respective magnets5via pole pieces9respectively adjacent thereto. Thus, each of the magnets5forms a magnetic circuit across the magnet5, the adjacent pole pieces9and the heat generator4. Such magnetic circuits are formed over the entire axial length such that adjacent magnetic fluxes are in opposite directions. Then, the magnetic fields of the magnets5spread out, and the magnetic flux density reaching the heat generator4becomes high.

Accordingly, the heat generating apparatus1according to the third embodiment has the same effects as the heat generating apparatus according to the first embodiment.

Fourth Embodiment

FIG. 6is a longitudinal sectional view of a heat generating apparatus according to a fourth embodiment. The heat generating apparatus1according to the fourth embodiment is configured in light of inhibition of temperature rise of the magnets5, and includes a cooling system for cooling the magnets5.

The cooling system of the heat generating apparatus1according to the sixth embodiment has the following structure as shown inFIG. 6. An air inlet31and an air outlet32, which lead to the space where the magnets5and the magnet holder6are located (the space being hereinafter referred to as “magnets-lying space”), are made in the body2.FIG. 6shows an example where the air outlet32pierces through the magnet holder6(cylindrical member6a).

An inlet pipe33and an outlet pipe34are connected to the air inlet31and the air outlet32, respectively, of the magnets-lying space. The inlet pipe33and the outlet pipe34are connected to a heat exchanger35. The magnets-lying space, the inlet pipe33, the outlet pipe34and the heat exchanger35form a passage, and a cooling medium flows and circulates in this passage (see the dotted arrows inFIG. 6). In the passage, a pump36is provided to send the cooling medium.

In this structure, the cooling medium is introduced in the magnets-lying space through the inlet31by the operation of the pump36(see the dotted arrows inFIG. 6). The cooling medium introduced in the magnets-lying space flows around the magnets5. Meanwhile, the magnets5are cooled. The cooling medium that has cooled the magnets5is discharged into the outlet pipe34through the outlet32(see the dotted arrows inFIG. 6). The cooling medium discharged into the outlet pipe34is cooled in the heat exchanger35and then, sent to the inlet pipe33. In this way, the magnets5are forcibly cooled, thereby inhibiting the temperature rise of the magnets5.

This magnet cooling system is applicable to any other heat generating apparatus according to the present invention. For example, the magnet cooling system is applicable to the heat generating apparatuses according to the first, second and third embodiments. Also, the magnet cooling system is applicable to a heat generating apparatus including a disk-shaped heat generator, which will be described later.

According to a modification of the fourth embodiment, the inlet pipe33, the outlet pipe34, the heat exchanger35and the pump36may be omitted. In this case, external air can be introduced in the magnet-lying space through the air inlet31and discharged through the air outlet32by a blower or the like. Thereby, the magnets5are cooled by the air flowing in the magnet-lying space.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and it is possible to carry out the present invention by appropriately modifying the above-described embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope thereof. For example, in the above-described embodiments, the heat generator4is cylindrical, but the heat generator4may be shaped like a disk that is coaxial with the rotary shaft3. In this case, the magnet holder6is shaped like a disk that is coaxial with the rotary shaft3. The disk-shaped member faces a principal surface (one of the surfaces on both sides in the axial direction) of the disk-shaped heat generator, and the disk-shaped member holds the magnets5on its surface facing the principal surface of the heat generator. Accordingly, the magnets face the principal surface of the heat generator with a gap. In this case, there are possible three ways of arranging the magnets5as follows.

A first way of arrangement is based on the magnet arrangement in the first embodiment. In the first way of arrangement, the magnets are circumferentially arrayed across the whole circumference. The magnetic poles (north pole and south pole) of each of the magnets are axially arranged, and the magnetic pole arrangements of circumferentially adjacent ones of the magnets are opposite to each other. In this case, the disk-shaped member directly holding the magnets is made of a ferromagnetic material.

A second way of arrangement is based on the magnet arrangement in the second embodiment. In the second way of arrangement, the magnets are circumferentially arrayed across the whole circumference. The magnetic poles (north pole and south pole) of each of the magnets are circumferentially arranged, and the magnetic pole arrangements of circumferentially adjacent ones of the magnets are opposite to each other. In this case, the disk-shaped member directly holding the magnets is made of a non-magnetic material. Pole pieces made of a ferromagnetic material are provided between the circumferentially arrayed magnets.

A third way of arrangement is based on the magnet arrangement in the third embodiment. In the third way of arrangement, the magnets are ring-shaped, and the ring-shaped magnets are coaxially arrayed in the radial direction. The magnetic poles (north pole and south pole) of each of the magnets are radially arranged, and the magnetic pole arrangements of radially adjacent ones of the magnets are opposite to each other. In this case, the disk-shaped member directly holding the magnets is made of a non-magnetic material. Pole pieces made of a ferromagnetic material are provided between the radially arrayed magnets. Additionally, pole magnets are provided at both ends of the radial array of magnets.

The heat generating apparatuses described above can be mounted not only in wind electric generating facilities but also in hydroelectric generating facilities and other power-generating facilities utilizing kinetic energy of a fluid.

Further, the heat generating apparatuses described above can be mounted in vehicles (for example, trucks, buses and the like). In such a case, any of the heat generating apparatuses may be provided in a vehicle as a component separate from an eddy current decelerator serving as an auxiliary brake or alternatively may be provided in a vehicle to double as an auxiliary brake. In a case where any of the heat generating apparatuses doubles as an auxiliary brake, a switch mechanism shall be provided for switching between braking and non-braking. When any of the heat generating apparatuses is used as an auxiliary brake (decelerator), the apparatus reduces the rotational speeds of the rotary shafts such as the propeller shaft, the drive shaft and the like. Thereby, the running speed of the vehicle is controlled. In this regard, along with the generation of braking force to reduce the rotational speeds of the rotary shafts, heat is generated. The heat recovered by the heat generating apparatus mounted in the vehicle is utilized, for example, as a heat source for a heater for heating the inside of the vehicle or as a heat source for a refrigerator for refrigerating the inside of a container.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The eddy current heat generating apparatuses according to the present invention can be effectively employed in power-generating facilities utilizing kinetic energy of a fluid, such as wind electric generating facilities, hydroelectric generating facilities and the like, and in vehicles, such as trucks, busses and the like.

REFERENCE SYMBOLS

1: eddy current heat generating apparatus

4: heat generator

4A: cylindrical member

4B: connection member

4C: through hole

4b: first layer

4c: second layer

4d: oxidation resistant coating

4e: buffer layer

6a: cylindrical member

9: pole piece

15: partition wall

22: brake system

31: air inlet

32: air outlet

34: outlet pipe