JP2007172943A - Battery module - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a small battery module constituted by connecting a plurality of unit cells. <P>SOLUTION: An upper casing member 121 and a lower casing member 122 are pasted to sandwich a barrier plate 130 to which a first barrier plate member 131 of copper and a second barrier plate member 132 of aluminum are pasted to form a first cell and a second cell. A first power generating element 100<SB>-1</SB>and a second power generating element 100<SB>-2</SB>are housed in the first cell 125 and the second cell 126, respectively, and the negative electrode plate negative electrode layer non-forming region 103c<SB>-1</SB>of the first power generating element 100<SB>-1</SB>and a positive electrode plate positive electrode layer non-forming region 101c<SB>-2</SB>of the second power generating element 100<SB>-2</SB>are directly connected to the barrier plate 130 by ultrasonic welding to connect the first and second power generating elements 100<SB>-1</SB>and 100<SB>-2</SB>in series. Thereby, a battery can be miniaturized since its structure is simplified compared with the case that the terminal of each power generating element is connected outside. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an electrode group in which electrode plates are stacked via a separator and a battery module in which a plurality of power generation elements having an electrolyte are connected and accommodated in an exterior member.

A group of electrodes in which a positive electrode plate and a negative electrode plate are alternately stacked via a separator and covered and sealed with an exterior member together with an electrolyte, and electrode terminals are connected to the positive electrode plate and the negative electrode plate and led out from the exterior member. A type of secondary battery is known (for example, see Patent Document 1). When such a secondary battery is actually used, it is used in the form of an assembled battery in which a plurality of secondary batteries are appropriately connected in parallel and in series to output a desired voltage with a desired capacity. There are many cases. In particular, when used for an application requiring a certain capacity, such as for driving a motor of an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle, it is used in the form of such an assembled battery in most cases. As an assembled battery composed of a large number of secondary batteries, for example, the same polarity terminals of a plurality of thin secondary batteries are connected by a bus bar to form a subassembly, and a plurality of subassemblies are further stacked to produce a high output. An assembled battery (battery module) and the like that obtain the above are also known (for example, see Patent Document 2).
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 9-259859 JP 2004-55492 A

By the way, in such an assembled battery, there is generally a desire to reduce the volume of the battery as much as possible, that is, to downsize the battery. In particular, in a secondary battery applied to an application requiring high output, such as an electric vehicle, the volume of the secondary battery becomes considerably large because a large number of batteries (unit batteries) are connected to form an assembled battery as described above. There is a strong demand for downsizing.
In addition, when an assembled battery is configured by connecting a plurality of unit cells, the number of connection locations for connecting the unit cells increases, and the volume occupied by the connection portion also increases. Unlike the power generation element including the electrode laminate, the electrolyte, and the like, the connection part between the unit batteries has a configuration that does not contribute to the amount of electricity stored or the output of the battery. Therefore, if the volume occupied by such a connection portion can be reduced as much as possible, the volume of the assembled battery can be reduced, and the storage efficiency and output efficiency of the assembled battery can be improved.

Specifically, for example, the thin battery module disclosed in Patent Document 2 described above has a large number of unit cells mounted in an orderly manner using a bus bar, but the volume of the portion where the unit cells are connected by the bus bar is small. It cannot be said that it is sufficiently small, and on the contrary, it is a factor that increases the size of the assembled battery.
As a method of connecting a plurality of unit batteries without using a bus bar, it is conceivable to connect the terminals derived from the batteries directly by welding or the like, but in this case also, the electrode terminals are led out from the battery body. In addition, it is necessary to have a configuration for connecting them, and it is difficult to reduce the volume.

  The present invention has been made in view of such problems, and the object thereof is a battery module that is used as an assembled battery or a subassembly of an assembled battery by connecting a plurality of unit batteries, and has a small volume. That is, to provide a small battery module.

  In order to solve the above-described problems, a battery module according to the present invention includes a plurality of power generation elements having an electrode group and an electrolyte, and an accommodating portion that seals and accommodates the plurality of power generation elements, at least partially between the front and back sides. A plurality of compartments separated from each other by a partition wall in which a conductive portion having ensured conductivity is formed, and a housing portion for housing each of the plurality of power generating elements in the compartment. And the plurality of power generation elements are connected to each other at least one of a positive electrode and a negative electrode of the electrode group via the conductive portion of the partition wall.

  In the battery module having such a configuration, the connection between the power generation elements is performed by connecting the electrode originally included in the electrode group of the power generation element to the partition wall originally provided in the battery module. That is, no new configuration is required for the connection between the power generation elements, and no special space is occupied. Therefore, for example, compared to the conventional case where a plurality of power generation elements are connected by connecting the electrode terminals outside the battery module with a bus bar or the like, an external configuration for connecting the electrode terminals with the bus bar or the like and a space therefor are not required. In addition, the internal configuration of the battery module for leading out the electrode terminals for connecting the power generation elements to the outside and the space therefor are not required. As a result, the battery module can be reduced in volume, that is, downsized.

Preferably, the plurality of power generation elements are sequentially connected in series via the conductive portions of the partition walls, and are respectively connected to positive and negative electrodes at both ends of the plurality of power generation elements connected in series. It further has a positive electrode terminal and a negative electrode terminal led out of the housing part.
As a preferred specific configuration example, the partition wall is formed of a member obtained by joining a first member formed of a first conductive material and a second member formed of a second conductive material. The

Further, as another preferable specific configuration example, the partition includes an insulating base material having an opening provided at a portion where the conductive portion is formed, and the conductive material formed so as to close the opening at the portion. Part.
In the configuration in which the partition wall includes a base material and a conductive part, the conductive part is formed by joining, for example, a first member formed of a first conductive material and a second member formed of a second conductive material. It may be formed of a member, or a clad material of a first conductive material and a second conductive material may be formed so as to close the opening of the base material.

  Moreover, in the part which the base material of the partition formed with resin and the said positive electrode terminal and the said negative electrode terminal of the said accommodating part have led out, it is at least between the said positive electrode terminal and the said negative electrode terminal, and the accommodating member of the said accommodating part. The resin that constitutes a part of the base material may be arranged so that the housing portion is sealed in the lead-out portion of the positive terminal and the negative terminal.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, it is a battery module used as a assembled battery or a subassembly of an assembled battery by connecting a some unit battery, Comprising: A small battery module, ie, a small battery module, can be provided.

  As embodiments of the present invention, battery modules configured by connecting two lithium-based thin secondary batteries (power generation elements) in series will be described with reference to first to fifth embodiments. The battery module according to any of the embodiments may be used as a single assembled battery, or may be used as one subassembly, that is, a component for forming a large capacity assembled battery. It may be a thing.

First Embodiment A first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a battery module 10 according to the present embodiment, FIG. 1A is a plan view of the battery module 10, and FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of the battery module 10. It is the figure shown typically so that an understanding of a structure might become easy.
As shown in FIG. 1, the battery module 10 includes a first power generation element 100 ₋₁ , a second power generation element 100 ₋₂ , an exterior member 120, a partition wall 130, a positive electrode terminal 140, and a negative electrode terminal 150.

A first power generating element _{100 -1} and the second power generating element _{100 -2} have the same configuration, the first power generating element _{100 -1} includes an electrode assembly _{109 -1} and electrolyte _{106 -1,} the second generating elements _{100 -2} having electrodes _{109 2} and the electrolyte _{106 -2.}
In the following description, such a common configuration is simply referred to as the power generation element 100, the electrode group 109, or the electrolyte 106, and will be described collectively.

The configuration of the electrode group 109 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of the electrode group 109.
As shown in FIG. 2, the electrode group 109 includes three positive plates 101, five separators 102, and three negative plates 103. Note that the number of the positive electrode plate 101, the separator 102, and the negative electrode plate 103 is not limited to a specific number, and a suitable number is appropriately selected as necessary. For example, a configuration having one positive electrode plate 101, one separator 102, and one negative electrode plate 103 may be used.

The positive electrode plate 101 includes a positive electrode side current collector 101a and a positive electrode layer 101b formed on both surfaces of the positive electrode side current collector 101a.
As illustrated, the positive electrode side current collector 101a is configured to protrude in one direction from a region where the positive electrode plate 101, the separator 102, and the negative electrode plate 103 actually overlap each other. A positive electrode layer 101b is formed in the positive electrode side current collector 101a at least in a region where the positive electrode plate 101, the separator 102 and the negative electrode plate 103 overlap. In addition, at least a part of a region of the positive electrode side current collector 101a protruding from the region where the positive electrode plate 101, the separator 102, and the negative electrode plate 103 overlap with each other is a positive electrode plate positive electrode layer non-forming region 101c where the positive electrode layer 101b is not formed. Left behind. This positive electrode plate positive electrode layer non-forming region 101 c is provided for connection to the positive electrode terminal 140 of the battery module 10 or another power generation element via the partition wall 130.

The positive electrode plate 101 employs LiMn ₂ O ₄ belonging to a lithium-containing composite oxide as a positive electrode active material, carbon black belonging to a carbon-based material as a conductive material, and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) as a binder. A positive electrode active material and a conductive material are mixed, and the positive electrode active material and the conductive material mixed in N methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) in which polyvinylidene fluoride is dissolved are uniformly dispersed to prepare a slurry. This slurry is uniformly applied onto a 20 μm thick aluminum metal foil serving as the positive electrode current collector 101a, NMP is evaporated, and rolled with a roller press to produce the positive electrode layer 101b on the aluminum metal foil 101a. The weight ratio of LiMn ₂ O ₄ to be mixed, carbon black, and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) is 75 to 85:10 to 20: 5 to 10, preferably 85: 10: 5 to 75: 20: 5. It is. The positive electrode layer 101b thus manufactured is cut into a predetermined size (for example, a width of 70 mm, a length of 120 mm, and a thickness of 0.18 mm) to obtain the positive electrode plate 101.

As the positive electrode active material, in addition to LiMn ₂ O ₄ , lithium manganese composite oxide (LiMnO ₂ , layered structure LiMnO ₂ , spinel structure LiMnO ₂ , LiMnO ₄ ), lithium nickel composite oxide (LiNiO ₂ ), lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO ₂ ), lithium iron phosphate compound (LiFePO ₄ ), lithium manganese phosphate compound (LiMnPO ₄ ), lithium vanadium composite oxide (LiV ₂ O ₄ ), lithium titanium composite oxide (LiTi ₂ O ₄ ), etc. LiM _X O _Y (M is a transition element, and X and Y include a constant ratio and an indefinite ratio) can be used.

  In terms of output, these lithium composite oxides preferably have an average particle diameter r of 0.1 μm <r <1 μm, and more preferably 0.1 <r <0.5 μm. Here, the average particle diameter is a 50% cumulative particle diameter, and is a particle diameter when the volume integrated from 0 μm is 50% in the particle size distribution diagram. In this measurement, a microtrack particle size distribution analyzer is used to measure the number n of particles and the diameter d per particle by scattering of laser light. Of course, other particle size analyzers can be used.

  The particle structure of the lithium composite oxide is preferably a single particle or a primary particle having a property close to a single crystal. In some cases, secondary particles formed by agglomeration of primary particles are included, but the content is preferably small. Specifically, the content of secondary particles in the lithium composite oxide is 50% or less. Preferably there is. In terms of life, it is preferably a single crystal.

  The thickness of the positive electrode layer 101b is preferably 50 μm to 150 μm, more preferably 60 μm to 120 μm, and the optimum thickness is 80 μm. This is because the peak position of the output varies between 50 to 150 μm under certain measurement conditions depending on the material type, particle size, electrode composition, porosity, and the like.

The negative electrode plate 103 includes a negative electrode side current collector 103a and a negative electrode layer 103b formed on both surfaces of the negative electrode side current collector 103a.
As illustrated, the negative electrode side current collector 103a is configured to protrude in one direction from a region where the positive electrode plate 101, the separator 102, and the negative electrode plate 103 actually overlap each other. The negative electrode side current collector 103a projects in a direction opposite to the direction in which the positive electrode side current collector 101a of the positive electrode plate 101 projects. A negative electrode layer 103b is formed in a region where the positive electrode plate 101, the separator 102 and the negative electrode plate 103 overlap at least in the negative electrode side current collector 103a. In addition, at least a part of a region of the negative electrode side current collector 103a that protrudes from a region where the positive electrode plate 101, the separator 102, and the negative electrode plate 103 overlap is a negative electrode plate negative electrode layer non-formation region 103c in which the negative electrode layer 103b is not formed. Left behind. This negative electrode negative electrode layer non-formation region 103 c is used for connection with the negative electrode terminal 150 of the battery module 10 or another power generation element via the partition wall 130.

  The negative electrode plate 103 employs hard carbon to which a carbon-based material belongs as a negative electrode active material and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) as a binder. Hard carbon and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) are mixed at a weight ratio of 90:10 and dispersed in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) to prepare a slurry. This slurry is uniformly applied onto a 10 μm-thick copper metal foil serving as the negative electrode current collector 103a, NMP is evaporated, and rolled with a roller press to produce a negative electrode layer 103b on the copper metal foil 103a. The negative electrode layer 103b thus manufactured is cut into a predetermined size (for example, a width of 70 mm, a length of 120 mm, and a thickness of 0.11 mm), whereby the negative electrode plate 103 is obtained.

  As the negative electrode active material, materials that occlude and release lithium ions of the positive electrode active material such as amorphous carbon including hard carbon, non-graphitizable carbon, graphitizable carbon, or graphite can be used. .

The separator 102 is disposed between the positive electrode plate 101 and the negative electrode plate 103 that are alternately stacked, and constitutes an electrode group together with the positive electrode plate 101 and the negative electrode plate 103.
The separator 102 is formed of a microporous film made of polyolefin such as polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP), for example, and has a function of preventing a short circuit between the positive electrode plate 101 and the negative electrode plate 103 and holding an electrolyte. Have. In addition, when an overcurrent flows, it has a function of blocking the current by closing the pores of the film due to heat generation.

The electrode group 109 having such a configuration is accommodated together with the electrolyte 106 in each of a first compartment 125 and a second compartment 126 formed by an exterior member 120 (see FIG. 1) and a partition wall 130 which will be described later. Thereby, the electric power generation element 100 (1st and 2nd electric power generation element _100-1 and _100-2 ) is formed.

  The electrolyte 106 constituting the power generation element 100 together with the electrode group 109 is a liquid electrolyte in which a lithium salt such as lithium perchlorate or lithium borofluoride is soluted in an organic liquid solvent. As the organic liquid solvent, ester solvents such as propylene carbonate (PC), ethylene carbonate (EC), and dimethyl carbonate (DMC) are suitable, but are not limited thereto. For example, ester solvents include γ An organic liquid solvent prepared by mixing and preparing an ether solvent such as butylactone (γ-BL) or diethyloxyethane (DEE) can also be used.

As shown in FIG. 1B, the exterior member 120 includes an upper exterior member 121 and a lower exterior member 122 each formed in a cup shape. The upper exterior member 121 and the lower exterior member 122 face each other with their concave surfaces facing each other, and a peripheral wall (outer peripheral portion) 124 is pasted with a partition wall 130 described later interposed therebetween. Between the lower exterior member 122, a space that is formed from the first compartment 125 and the second compartment 126 and is isolated from the outside is formed. The first power generation element _100-1 and the second power generation element _100-2 are sealed and accommodated in the first compartment 125 and the second compartment 126.

One positive terminal 140 and one negative terminal 150 are led out from the exterior member 120 to which the upper exterior member 121 and the lower exterior member 122 are attached. In the battery module 10, the first and second power generation elements _100-1 and _100-2 are accommodated in the exterior member 120. However, these power generation elements _100-1 and _100-2 are connected in series inside the exterior member 120 as described later. Therefore, the pair of positive electrode terminal 140 and negative electrode terminal 150 are derived from the exterior member 120 only for the entire battery module 10.
As illustrated, in the battery module 10, the positive terminal 140 and the negative terminal 150 are led out from the same peripheral edge of the exterior member 120.

  The upper exterior member 121 and the lower exterior member 122 are both flexible, for example, a resin film such as polyethylene or polypropylene, or a resin-metal thin film laminate material in which both surfaces of a metal foil such as aluminum are laminated with a resin such as polyethylene or polypropylene. It is formed with the material which has.

  Note that, in the lead-out portion of the positive electrode terminal 140 and the negative electrode terminal 150 of the outer member 120, the upper outer member 121 and the lower electrode member 150 are connected to the lower outer member 121 and the lower outer member 122, so There is a possibility that a gap corresponding to the thickness of these terminals is generated at the joint with the exterior member 122. In order to avoid the occurrence of such a gap and maintain the internal sealing performance of the battery module 10, polyethylene or the like is formed on a portion where the positive terminal 140 and the negative terminal 150 are in contact with the upper exterior member 121 and the lower exterior member 122. It is preferable to interpose a sealing film made of polypropylene by a method such as heat fusion. In that case, it is desirable that the seal film is made of a resin of the same system as the resin constituting the upper exterior member 121 and the lower exterior member 122 from the viewpoint of heat fusion.

As described above, the partition wall 130 is a flat plate-like member that divides the internal space of the exterior member 120 in the vertical direction to form the first compartment 125 and the second compartment 126. Further the partition wall 130 in addition to this, electrical and a second power generating element _{100 -2} accommodated in the first power generating element _{100 -1} and the second compartment 126 accommodated in the first compartment 125 Acts as a connection means to connect to

As shown in FIG. 1B, the partition wall 130 of the present embodiment is formed by bonding a first partition member 131 and a second partition member 132 together. In the present embodiment, the first partition member 131 is a flat plate member made of copper or nickel, and the second partition member 132 is a flat plate member made of aluminum, and these are bonded to be electrically conductive. . As a result, the partition wall 130 is formed as a conductor.
In the partition wall 130, the surface of the first partition member 131 is on the first compartment 125 (first power generation element 100 ₋₁ ) side, and the surface of the second partition member 132 is on the second compartment 126 (first partition). 2 between the upper exterior member 121 and the lower exterior member 122 so as to be on the power generation element _100-2 ) side.

Against the partition wall 130, the first negative electrode plate anode layer non-formation region 103c _-1 of the power generation element _{100 -1,} which is accommodated in the first compartment 125, the surface of the first partition wall member 131 of the partition 130 Directly fixed by ultrasonic welding or the like. Thus, the negative terminal of the first power generating element _{100 -1} of the electrode assembly _{109 -1} is connected to the conductor serving as the partition wall 130.
The second positive electrode plate positive electrode layer non-formation region 101c _-2 of the power generating element _{100 -2} is housed in the second compartment 126, the surface of the second partition member 132 of the partition 130, ultrasonic welding, etc. It is fixed directly by. Thus, the positive terminal of the second power generating element _{100 -2} electrode group _{109 -2} are connected to the conductor serving as the partition wall 130.
As a result, the negative electrode of the first power generating element _{100 -1} of the electrode assembly _{109 -1,} the positive electrode of the second power generating element _{100 -2} electrode group _{109 -2} are electrically connected via the partition wall 130, the That is, the first power generation element _100-1 and the second power generation element _100-2 are connected in series.

As described above, the partition wall 130 is an upper exterior member 121 and with the lower exterior member 122 first compartment 125 and second housing the first power generating element _{100 1} and the second power generating element _{100 -2} A compartment 126 is defined and constitutes the inner surface thereof. At that time, the first power generating element _{100 1} and the second power generating element _{100 -2} accommodated in the first compartment 125 and second compartment 126, respectively, a negative electrode plate negative electrode of the electrode group _{109 -1} except for the positive electrode plate positive electrode layer non-formation region 101c _-2 layers formed area 103c _-1 and electrodes _{109 -2,} in an electrically insulated state from the partition wall 130, a first compartment 125 and the second The compartment 126 is accommodated. Therefore, for example, between the first power generating element _{100 -1} of the electrode assembly _{109 -1} or the second power generating element _{100 -2} electrode group _{109 -2} and the partition 130, respectively, any insulation (not shown) or provided member or the partition wall 130 side of the electrode assembly _{109 -1} and _{109 -2,} it is preferable to so as to interpose a further separator 102 in addition to the configuration shown in FIG.

  In addition, the positive electrode terminal 140 and the negative electrode terminal 150 are also sandwiched and attached between the upper exterior member 121 and the lower exterior member 122 integrally with the partition wall 130, as will be described later. At this time, the positive electrode terminal 140 and the negative electrode terminal 150 are also installed in a state of being electrically insulated directly from the partition wall 130. Therefore, an insulating member or the like is appropriately installed between the positive electrode terminal 140 and the negative electrode terminal 150 and the partition wall 130 as necessary.

The positive electrode terminal 140 is a positive electrode input / output terminal connected to the outside of the series circuit of the first power generation element _100-1 and the second power generation element _100-2 housed in the exterior member 120. The positive terminal 140 is connected a first power generating element _{100 -1} a positive electrode plate a positive electrode layer non-formation region 101c _-1 of the positive electrode side current collector 101a _-1 through ultrasonic welding or unshown electrode lead. The first power generating element _{100 -1} with the connected positive terminal 140 passes through the upper (first compartment 125 side) of the partition wall 130 between the upper exterior member 121 and the lower exterior member 122, the battery module 10 to the outside.

In the battery module 10, the positive electrode terminal 140 and the negative electrode terminal 150 are led out from the same periphery in an arrangement that does not overlap in plan (in the plane illustrated in FIG. 1A). Therefore, the width of the portion leading out of the positive electrode terminal 140 is set to a sufficiently short width so as to be shorter than ½ of the width of the electrode group 109 accommodated in the exterior member 120. The positive terminal 140, the width of the positive electrode plate positive electrode layer non-formation region 101c _-1 and the connecting portion of the first power generating element _{100 -1} of the positive electrode side current collector 101a _-1 (not shown), the positive terminal 140 outside The width may be the same as the width of the portion led out to the positive electrode current collector 101a- ₁ , or may be as wide as the width of the positive electrode current collector 101a- ₁ (the width of the positive electrode plate positive electrode layer non-forming region 101c- ₁ ). In the latter case, the width of the positive electrode terminal 140 changes continuously or stepwise in the exterior member 120 (a range including the peripheral sticking region 124 and the first compartment 125 through which the positive electrode terminal 140 passes). Formed as follows.

  The positive electrode terminal 140 is a metal foil member, and the material is not particularly limited as long as it is an electrochemically stable metal material. For example, aluminum or an aluminum alloy is preferably used.

The negative electrode terminal 150 is a negative electrode input / output terminal connected to the outside of the series circuit of the first power generation element _100-1 and the second power generation element _100-2 housed in the exterior member 120. The negative electrode terminal 150 is connected to the negative electrode plate negative electrode layer non-formation region 103c _{- 2} of the negative electrode side current collector 103a- ₂ of the second power generation element 100-2 via ultrasonic welding or an electrode lead (not shown). The second power generating element _{100 -2} and connected the negative terminal 150 was passes through the lower side of the partition wall 130 between the upper exterior member 121 and the lower exterior member 122 (second compartment 126 side), battery Derived outside the module 10.

Similarly to the positive electrode terminal 140, the negative electrode terminal 150 is sufficiently wide such that the width of the portion leading out of the negative electrode terminal 150 is shorter than ½ of the width of the electrode group 109 accommodated in the exterior member 120. A short width. The width of the portion (not shown) of the negative electrode terminal 150 connected to the negative electrode plate negative electrode layer non-forming region 103c _{- 2} of the negative electrode side current collector 103a- ₂ of the second power generation element 100-2 is as follows. The width may be the same as the width of the portion led out to the outside, or may be as wide as the width of the negative electrode side current collector 103a- ₂ (the width of the negative electrode plate negative electrode layer non-forming region 103c- ₂ ). In the latter case, the width of the negative electrode terminal 150 changes continuously or stepwise in the exterior member 120 (a range including the peripheral adhesive region 124 and the second compartment 126 through which the negative electrode terminal 150 passes). Formed as follows.

  The negative electrode terminal 150 is a metal foil member, and the material is not particularly limited as long as it is an electrochemically stable metal material. For example, nickel, copper, stainless steel, or the like is preferably used.

  The battery module 10 of this embodiment has such a configuration.

The battery module 10 having such a configuration is a module that accommodates therein a circuit in which the first and second power generating elements _100-1 and _100-2 are connected in series, and positive and negative terminals for the series circuit. Only the positive electrode terminal 140 and the negative electrode terminal 150 are derived from the battery body as shown in FIG.
The conventional battery module has a configuration in which the positive electrode terminal and the negative electrode terminal of the unit battery to be accommodated are led out from the battery body and are connected to the outside of the battery using, for example, a bus bar. Compared to such a conventional configuration, an external configuration for connecting the unit battery is not required, so that the overall configuration of the battery module is simplified and the module can be miniaturized.

The connection between the first power generating element _{100 -1} in the battery module 10 and the second power generating element _{100 -2,} the electrode group ₁₀₉ -1, _{109 -2,} conventional positive terminal or negative terminal is connected that the positive electrode side current collector 101a positive electrode plate positive electrode layer non-formation region 101c _-1 and the negative electrode plate anode layer non-formation region 103c _-2 of the negative electrode side current collector 103a _{-2 -1} directly by ultrasonic welding or the like By connecting to the partition wall 130 as a conductor. Therefore, the configuration for connecting the positive electrode side current collector 101a- ₁ and the negative electrode side current collector 103a- ₂ to the positive electrode terminal or the negative electrode terminal is not necessary even in the battery module 10, and the configuration can be simplified. . In addition, since it is not necessary to secure a region through which electrode leads and the like pass therethrough and a region through which the positive electrode terminal and the negative electrode terminal pass, the volume of the space surrounded by the exterior member 120 can be reduced. The battery module 10 can be downsized.

The positive electrode terminal 140 and the negative electrode terminal 150 are led out in the same direction from the same periphery of the battery body.
Conventionally, a unit cell in which a positive electrode terminal and a negative electrode terminal are led out in the same direction is known from the viewpoints of installation area, volume effectiveness, and application convenience. However, in such a configuration, a larger amount of current flows in the electrode group 109 in a region closer to the terminal, and the current becomes non-uniform, which causes problems such as poor efficiency with respect to volume and shortened life. It was.
However, the battery module 10 of the present embodiment has a configuration in which a plurality of independent power generation elements are connected in series, and such current non-uniformity does not occur. Therefore, it is possible to provide a battery module in which terminals are led out in the same direction, which is efficient in volume and has a long life.

Second Embodiment A second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of the battery module 20 of the present embodiment, FIG. 3A is a plan view of the battery module 20, and FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of the battery module 20. It is the figure shown typically so that an understanding of a structure might become easy.
As illustrated in FIG. 3, the battery module 20 includes a first power generation element 100 ₋₁ , a second power generation element 100 ₋₂ , an exterior member 120, a partition wall 230, a positive electrode terminal 140, and a negative electrode terminal 150.

The configurations of the first and second power generation elements _100-1 and _100-2 , the exterior member 120, the positive electrode terminal 140, and the negative electrode terminal 150 are the same as those of the battery module 10 of the first embodiment. Accordingly, the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment are attached to these, and the description thereof is omitted.
In the battery module 20 of the second embodiment, the configuration of the partition 230 is different from the partition 130 of the battery module 10 of the first embodiment described above.
Hereinafter, the battery module 20 of the second embodiment will be described focusing on the configuration of the partition wall 230.

In the same manner as the partition wall 130 of the first embodiment, the partition wall 230 partitions the internal space of the exterior member 120 vertically to form the first compartment 125 and the second compartment 126, and the first compartment 125. electrically connects the first power generating element _{100 -1} housed and a second power generating element _{100 -2} is housed in a second compartment 126.

The structure of the partition 230 is demonstrated with reference to FIG.
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the partition wall 230.
As illustrated in FIG. 4, the partition wall 230 includes a base material 231, a first conductive member 232, and a second conductive member 233.

The base material 231 is a sheet of modified PP. An opening 234 is provided in a part of the base material 231, and the opening 234 electrically connects the first power generation element _100-1 and the second power generation element _100-2. Is a place where is formed. Thus, Figure 3 bulkhead 230 (B), the at the time of forming the battery module 20 of the first electrode group _{109 -1} and the second electrode group _{109 -2} arrangement, the first power generating element 100 _- negative plate negative electrode layer non-formation region 103c _-1 and the second positive electrode side current collector 101a of the power generating element _{100 -2} electrode group _{109 -2 1} on the negative electrode side current collector of the electrode group _{109 -1} 103a _{-1 - An} opening 234 is formed at a position on the partition wall 230 corresponding to the position where the _second positive electrode plate positive electrode layer non-forming region 101c- ₂ is disposed.

The first conductive member 232 is formed of a conductive material, and is disposed so as to close the opening 234 of the base material 231 from the first compartment 125 side (upper side), that is, from the first power generation element _100-1 side. It is a flat member. In the present embodiment, the first conductive member 232 is made of aluminum. The first conductive member 232 is formed in a shape slightly larger than the opening 234 of the base material 231 in order to close the opening 234.

The second conductive member 233 is formed of a conductive material, and closes the opening 234 of the base material 231 from the second compartment 126 side (lower side), that is, from the second power generation element _100-2 side. It is the flat member arrange | positioned. In the present embodiment, the second conductive member 233 is formed of copper or nickel. The second conductive member 233 is formed in a shape slightly larger than the opening 234 of the base material 231 in order to close the opening 234.

In the partition wall 230, the first conductive member 232 is placed from the upper side of the base material 231 and the second conductive member 233 is placed from the lower side of the base material 231 so as to close the opening 234 of the base material 231. The base material 231, the first conductive member 232, and the second conductive member 233 are heat-welded so as to overlap with the opening 234.
Since the base member 231 does not exist in the opening 234, the first conductive member 232 and the second conductive member 233 are directly welded. At this time, the first conductive member 232 and the second conductive member 233 are bonded. And heat-welding so as to be electrically connected to each other. As a result, a conductor composed of the first conductive member 232 and the second conductive member 233 is formed at the location of the opening 234 of the partition wall 230.

In the partition wall 230 having such a configuration, the first conductive member 232 side is the first compartment 125 (first power generation element 100 ₋₁ ) side, and the second conductive member 233 side is the second compartment 126. It arrange | positions between the upper exterior member 121 and the lower exterior member 122 so that it may become the (2nd electric power generation element _100-2 ) side.

Against the partition wall 230, the first negative electrode plate anode layer non-formation region 103c _-1 of the power generation element _{100 -1,} which is accommodated in the first compartment 125, which is formed in the opening 234 of the partition 230 1 The conductive member 232 is directly fixed by ultrasonic welding or the like. The second positive electrode plate positive electrode layer non-formation region 101c _-2 of the power generating element _{100 -2} is housed in the second compartment 126, the second conductive member 233 formed in the opening 234 of the partition 230 Directly fixed by ultrasonic welding or the like.
Thus, the negative electrode of the first power generating element _{100 -1} of the electrode assembly _{109 -1,} and the positive pole of the second power generating element _{100 -2} electrode group _{109 -2,} is formed in the opening 234 of the partition 230 The first power generation element _100-1 and the second power generation element _100-2 are connected in series by being electrically connected via the conductors (the first conductive member 232 and the second conductive member 233). It will be.

Note that unlike the partition wall 130 of the first embodiment, the partition wall 230 of the present embodiment is made of an insulating material in regions other than the vicinity of the opening 234 where the first conductive member 232 and the second conductive member 233 are attached. A base material 231 is used. Therefore, as in the first embodiment, when constituting the battery module 20 by using the partition wall 230, the first power generating element _{100 -1} of the electrode assembly _{109 -1} or electrode group of the second power generating element _{100 -2} 109 or an insulating member between _-2 and the partition wall 230, or on the side of the partition wall 230 of the electrode assembly _{109 -1} and _{109 -2,} the further separator 102 in addition to the configuration of the electrode group 109 shown in FIG. 2 There is no need to provide a configuration that intervenes.
Further, regarding the positive electrode terminal 140 and the negative electrode terminal 150, it is not necessary to separately provide an insulating member or the like between the positive electrode terminal 140 and the negative electrode terminal 150 and the partition wall 230 as in the first embodiment.

Similarly to the battery module 10 of the first embodiment, the battery module 20 of the second embodiment having such a configuration includes the first and second power generation elements _100-1 and _100-2 connected in series. This is a module that accommodates the circuit therein, and only the positive terminal 140 and the negative terminal 150 that are positive and negative terminals with respect to the series circuit are derived from the battery body as shown in FIG. Therefore, as compared with the conventional battery module, an external configuration for connecting the unit battery is not required, the configuration of the entire battery module is simplified, and the module can be miniaturized.

The connection between the first power generating element _{100 -1} in the battery module 20 and the second power generating element _{100 -2,} the electrode group ₁₀₉ -1, _{109 -2,} conventional positive terminal or negative terminal is connected that the positive electrode side current collector 101a positive electrode plate positive electrode layer non-formation region 101c _-1 and the negative electrode plate anode layer non-formation region 103c _-2 of the negative electrode side current collector 103a _{-2 -1} directly by ultrasonic welding or the like By connecting to the first conductive member 232 and the second conductive member 233 of the partition wall 230 as a conductor. Therefore, even in the battery module 20, a configuration for connecting the positive electrode side current collector 101a- ₁ and the negative electrode side current collector 103a- ₂ to the positive electrode terminal or the negative electrode terminal becomes unnecessary, and the configuration can be simplified. . In addition, since it is not necessary to secure a region through which electrode leads and the like pass therethrough and a region through which the positive electrode terminal and the negative electrode terminal pass, the volume of the space surrounded by the exterior member 120 can be reduced. The battery module 20 can be downsized.

  In addition, since the battery module 20 has a plurality of power generation elements connected in series and the terminals at both ends thereof are led out from the same periphery of the battery body in the same direction, the current flowing through the electrode group 109 has nonuniformity. It does not occur. Therefore, it is possible to provide a battery module in which terminals are led out in the same direction, which is efficient in volume and has a long life.

Third Embodiment A third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of the battery module 30 of the present embodiment, FIG. 5A is a plan view of the battery module 30, and FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view of the battery module 30. It is the figure shown typically so that an understanding of a structure might become easy.
As shown in FIG. 5, the battery module 30 includes a first power generation element 100 ₋₁ , a second power generation element 100 ₋₂ , an exterior member 120, a partition wall 330, a positive electrode terminal 140, and a negative electrode terminal 150.

The configurations of the first and second power generation elements _100-1 and _100-2 , the exterior member 120, the positive electrode terminal 140, and the negative electrode terminal 150 are the same as those of the battery module 10 of the first embodiment. Accordingly, the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment are attached to these, and the description thereof is omitted.
In the battery module 30 of the third embodiment, the configuration of the partition 330 is different from the partition 130 of the battery module 10 of the first embodiment and the partition 230 of the battery module 20 of the second embodiment.
Hereinafter, the battery module 30 of the third embodiment will be described focusing on the configuration of the partition wall 330.

In the same manner as the partition wall 130 of the first embodiment and the partition wall 230 of the second embodiment, the partition wall 330 divides the internal space of the exterior member 120 vertically to form a first compartment 125 and a second compartment 126. together, to connect the second power generating element _{100 -2} accommodated in the first power generating element _{100 -1} and the second compartment 126 is accommodated in the first compartment 125 electrically.

The configuration of the partition 330 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of the partition wall 330.
As illustrated in FIG. 6, the partition wall 330 includes a base material 331, a conductive member 332, and a covering member 333.
The base material 331 is a sheet of modified PP. An opening 334 is provided in a part of the base material 331, and the opening 334 electrically connects the first power generation element _100-1 and the second power generation element _100-2. Is a place where is formed. Thus, Figure 5 septum 330 (B), the at the time of forming the battery module 30 with the first electrode group _{109 -1} and the second electrode group _{109 -2} arrangement, the first power generating element 100 _- negative plate negative electrode layer non-formation region 103c _-1 and the second positive electrode side current collector 101a of the power generating element _{100 -2} electrode group _{109 -2 1} on the negative electrode side current collector of the electrode group _{109 -1} 103a _{-1 - The} opening 334 is formed at a position on the partition wall 330 corresponding to the position where the _second positive electrode plate positive electrode layer non-forming region 101c- ₂ is disposed.

  The conductive member 332 is a flat member that is formed of a conductive material and is disposed so as to close the opening 334 in the opening 334 of the base material 331. In this embodiment, the conductive member 332 is a clad material of aluminum and nickel (or copper). The conductive member 332 is formed in a shape slightly larger than the opening 334 of the base material 331 in order to close the opening 334.

The covering member 333 sandwiches the conductive member 332 from the side opposite to the base material 331 of the conductive member 332 so that the conductive member 332 is fixed to the base material 331 in a state in which the opening 334 of the base material 331 is appropriately blocked. It is a member adhered to the conductive member 332 and the base material 331 so as to cover the peripheral edge.
The covering member 333 is a sheet of modified PP like the base material 331, and is a member having a size slightly larger than the conductive member 332 to the extent that the periphery of the conductive member 332 can be covered and adhered to the base material 331. The covering member 333 has an opening 335 having substantially the same size as the base material 331.

The opening 335 of the covering member 333 and the opening 334 of the base 331 are substantially at the same position, and the base 331 and the covering member 333 are closed so as to close the opening 334 of the base 331 and the opening 335 of the covering member 333. The base material 331, the conductive member 332, and the covering member 333 are thermally welded with the conductive member 332 interposed therebetween. That is, a region where the opening 334 and the base 331 around the opening 335, the conductive member 332, and the covering member 333 overlap is thermally welded.
As a result, a partition member 330 is formed, which is a flat plate member made of modified PP, and in which a conductive member 332 is exposed on both the front and back surfaces.

For example, as shown in FIG. 5B, the partition wall 330 having such a structure has a first compartment 125 (first power generation element) on the side where the conductive member 332 and the covering member 333 of the base material 331 are attached. It is arrange | positioned between the upper exterior member 121 and the lower exterior member 122 so that it may become a _100-1 ) side.

Against the partition wall 330, conductive member first negative electrode plate anode layer non-formation region 103c _-1 of the power generation element _{100 -1,} which is accommodated in the first compartment 125, which is formed in the opening 334 of the partition 330 It is directly fixed to 332 by ultrasonic welding or the like. The second positive electrode plate positive electrode layer non-formation region 101c _-2 of the power generating element _{100 -2} is housed in the second compartment 126, ultrasonic welding to the conductive member 333 formed in the opening 334 of the partition 330 It is fixed directly by etc.
Thus, the negative electrode of the first power generating element _{100 -1} of the electrode assembly _{109 -1,} and the positive pole of the second power generating element _{100 -2} electrode group _{109 -2,} via the conductive portion 333 of the bulkhead 330 electrically The first power generation element _100-1 and the second power generation element _100-2 are connected in series.

Incidentally, the partition wall 330 of this embodiment, like the partition wall 230 of the second embodiment, the first power generating element _{100 -1} of the electrode assembly _{109 -1} or the second power generating element _{100 -2} electrode group _{109 -2} and on the side of or provided with an insulating member or an electrode group _{109 -1} and _{109 -2} partition wall 330, between the partition 330, so as to interpose a further separator 102 in addition to the configuration of the electrode group 109 shown in FIG. 2 There is no need for a special configuration.
Further, regarding the positive electrode terminal 140 and the negative electrode terminal 150, it is not necessary to separately provide an insulating member or the like between the positive electrode terminal 140 and the negative electrode terminal 150 and the partition wall 330 as in the first embodiment.

The battery module 30 of the third embodiment having such a configuration also has the same effect as the battery modules 10 and 20 of the first and second embodiments.
That is, from the battery module 30, only the positive and negative terminals 140 and 150 for the series circuit of the first and second power generation elements _100-1 and _100-2 are connected to the battery body as shown in FIG. Compared to the conventional battery module, the external configuration for connecting the unit battery is not required, the overall configuration of the battery module is simplified, and the module can be miniaturized.

Further, in the battery module 30, the connection between the first power generation element _100-1 and the second power generation element _100-2 is performed by connecting the positive electrode plate current collector 101 a- _{1 to} the positive electrode plate positive electrode layer non-forming region 101 c _−1. and is done by connecting to the conductive part 332 of the direct partition wall 330 and a negative electrode plate anode layer non-formation region 103c _-2 of the negative electrode side current collector 103a _-2 by ultrasonic welding or the like, the internal structure of the battery module 30 The volume can be reduced and the battery module 30 can be downsized.

  In addition, since the battery module 30 has a plurality of power generating elements connected in series and the terminals at both ends thereof are led out from the same periphery of the battery body in the same direction, the current flowing through the electrode group 109 has nonuniformity. It never happens. A battery module in which terminals are led out in the same direction, which is efficient in volume and has a long life, can be provided.

Fourth Embodiment A fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.
FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of the battery module 40 of the present embodiment, FIG. 7A is a plan view of the battery module 40, and FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view of the battery module 40. It is the figure shown typically so that an understanding of a structure might become easy.
As illustrated in FIG. 7, the battery module 40 includes a first power generation element 100 ₋₁ , a second power generation element 100 ₋₂ , an exterior member 120, a partition wall 430, a positive electrode terminal 140, and a negative electrode terminal 150.

The configurations of the first and second power generation elements _100-1 and _100-2 , the exterior member 120, the positive electrode terminal 140, and the negative electrode terminal 150 are the same as those of the battery module 10 of the first embodiment. Accordingly, the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment are attached to these, and the description thereof is omitted.
The battery module 40 of the fourth embodiment is different from the above-described embodiments in the configuration of the partition wall 430 and the installation method of the positive terminal 140 and the negative terminal 150 when the battery module 40 is manufactured.
Hereinafter, the battery module 40 of 4th Embodiment is demonstrated centering on the difference.

The partition wall 430 forms the first compartment 125 and the second compartment 126 by partitioning the internal space of the exterior member 120 in the vertical direction, similarly to the partition walls of the above-described embodiments, and the first compartment 125. electrically connects the first power generating element _{100 -1} housed and a second power generating element _{100 -2} is housed in a second compartment 126.

The structure of the partition 430 will be described with reference to FIG.
As illustrated in FIG. 8, the partition wall 430 includes a base material 431, a conductive member 332, and a covering member 333.
As illustrated, in the partition wall 430 of the present embodiment, the configuration of the conductive portion formed on the partition wall 430 to electrically connect the first power generation element _100-1 and the second power generation element _100-2 is as follows. This is the same as the third embodiment.
That is, the base member 431 is provided with an opening 334, and a conductive member 332 having a size slightly larger than the opening 334 is disposed so as to close the opening 334, and the conductive member 332 is appropriately attached to the base member 431. In order to adhere to the opening 334, a covering member 333 having an opening 335 that is slightly larger than the conductive member 332 and approximately the same size as the opening 334 is further disposed on the conductive member 332, and these base materials 431 are disposed. Then, the conductive member is formed by ultrasonic welding or the like of the conductive member 332 and the opening 334.

In addition, the partition 430 formed with the conductive portion in this manner has an upper exterior so that the side to which the conductive member 332 and the covering member 333 are attached is the first compartment 125 (first power generation element 100 _-1 ) side. The negative electrode plate negative electrode layer non-formation region 103c _{-1 of} the first power generation element 100 _-1 disposed between the member 121 and the lower exterior member 122 and accommodated in the first compartment 125, and the second partition The positive electrode plate positive electrode layer non-forming region 101c- ₂ of the second power generation element _100-2 accommodated in the chamber 126 is directly fixed to the conductive member 333 formed in the opening 334 of the partition wall 430 by ultrasonic welding or the like.
Thus, the negative electrode of the first power generating element _{100 -1} of the electrode assembly _{109 -1,} and the positive pole of the second power generating element _{100 -2} electrode group _{109 -2,} the second conductive member 233 of the partition 430 The first power generation element _100-1 and the second power generation element _100-2 are connected in series.

  In addition, the material of the base material 431, the conductive member 332, and the covering member 333 is the same as the corresponding parts of the third embodiment.

In the partition 430 of the present embodiment, in addition to such a configuration, as shown in FIG. 8, a first cut 436 and a second cut 437 are formed.
The first notch 436 and the second notch 437 are notches for allowing the positive electrode terminal 140 and the negative electrode terminal 150 to pass through, and are formed in the vicinity of the end of the base material 431 opposite to the opening 435. .
The first cuts 436 is a notch for passing the positive terminal 140 connected to a first power generating element _{100 -1,} the second cut 437, which is connected to the second power generating element _{100 -2} This is a cut for allowing the negative electrode terminal 150 to pass through.

These notches 436 and 437, respectively corresponding terminals 140 and 150 is a size capable of passing therebetween, the contained electrode group _{109 1} and the first compartment 125 and second compartment 126 109 _-2 positive terminal 140 and negative terminal 150 whose position is defined by being connected to, is formed at a position can properly pass.
Further, the first cut 436 and the second cut 437 may be formed in a positional relationship such that they are arranged on one straight line, or formed in a slightly shifted arrangement as shown in FIG. May be.

In manufacturing the battery module 40 by using such a partition wall 430 includes a first power generating element ₁₀₀ negative plate negative electrode layer of _-1 unformed region 103c _-1 As mentioned above the second power generating element _{100 -2} after connecting in series the positive electrode plate positive electrode layer non-formation region 101c _-2 via the conductive portion of the partition wall 430, the first power generating element _{100 -1} of the electrode group _{109 -1} to the connected positive terminal 140 first of through one cutting 436, the second power generating element _{100 -2} electrode group _{109 -2} negative electrode terminal 150 connected to a through a second incision 437, which of the upper exterior member 121 and the lower exterior member 122 It arrange | positions in between, the electrolyte 106 is filled, and the peripheral part 124 of the upper exterior member 121 and the lower exterior member 122 is stuck.

  At this time, unlike the above-described embodiments, it is not necessary to attach the resin 141 and the resin 151 to both surfaces of the positive electrode terminal 140 and the negative electrode terminal 150 in advance. As shown in FIG. 7B, the base material 431 is placed on both the upper and lower surfaces of the positive electrode terminal 140 and the negative electrode terminal 150 by passing the positive electrode terminal 140 and the negative electrode terminal 150 through the first cut 436 and the second cut 437. This is because the modified PP to be configured is arranged, and this can be used in place of the pre-adhesion resin 141 and the pre-adhesion resin 151.

That is, by passing the positive electrode terminal 140 and the negative electrode terminal 150 through the first cut 436 and the second cut 437 of the partition wall 430, the positive electrode terminal 140 and the negative electrode terminal are interposed between the upper exterior member 121 and the lower exterior member 122. When the 150 is fused together with the partition wall 430, the modified PP which is a part of the base material 431 disposed on both the upper and lower surfaces of the positive electrode terminal 140 and the negative electrode terminal 150 is melted without using the front resin 141 and the front resin 151. The upper exterior member 121 or the lower exterior member 122 and the positive electrode terminal 140 or the negative electrode terminal 150 appropriately penetrate between the upper exterior member 121 or the lower exterior member 122, so that the upper exterior member 121 and the lower exterior member 122 interpose the positive electrode terminal 140 and the negative electrode terminal 150. It is properly sealed in the state of being allowed to enter.
And thereby, the negative electrode of the first power generating element _{100 -1} of the electrode assembly _{109 -1,} and the positive pole of the second power generating element _{100 -2} electrode group _{109 -2,} via the conductive portion 433 of the partition 430 The first power generation element _100-1 and the second power generation element _100-2 are connected in series.

The battery module 40 of the fourth embodiment having such a configuration also has the same effect as the battery module of each embodiment described above.
That is, from the battery module 40, only a pair of positive and negative terminals 140 and 150 with respect to the series circuit of the first and second power generation elements _100-1 and _100-2 are led out from the battery body. The configuration can be simplified and the battery module can be reduced in size.
In addition, the connection of the two power generation elements inside the battery module 40 is performed directly via the conductive portion 432 of the partition wall 430, the internal configuration of the battery module 40 can be simplified and the volume can be reduced, The battery module 40 can be downsized.
In addition, since the battery module 40 has a plurality of power generation elements connected in series and the terminals at both ends thereof are led out from the same periphery of the battery body in the same direction, the current flowing through the electrode group 109 has nonuniformity. It never happens. A battery module in which terminals are led out in the same direction, which is efficient in volume and has a long life, can be provided.

In particular, in the battery module 40 of the present embodiment, the first and second power generation elements _100-1 and 100 ₋ are provided by interposing the positive electrode terminal 140 and the negative electrode terminal 150 between the upper exterior member 121 and the lower exterior member 122. When sealing ₂ , it is not necessary to attach the leading resin 141 and the leading resin 151 to the positive terminal 140 and the negative terminal 150. Therefore, it is possible to omit the step of attaching the pre-attached resin when the battery module 40 is manufactured. Moreover, use of resin can be avoided and it can contribute to reduction of a number of parts.

Fifth Embodiment A fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.
FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of the battery module 50 of the present embodiment, FIG. 9A is a plan view of the battery module 50, and FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view of the battery module 50. It is the figure shown typically so that an understanding of a structure might become easy.
As illustrated in FIG. 9, the battery module 50 includes a first power generation element 100 ₋₁ , a second power generation element 100 ₋₂ , an exterior member 120, a partition wall 530, a positive electrode terminal 140, and a negative electrode terminal 150.

The configurations of the first and second power generation elements _100-1 and _100-2 , the exterior member 120, the positive electrode terminal 140, and the negative electrode terminal 150 are the same as those of the battery module 10 of the first embodiment. Accordingly, the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment are attached to these, and the description thereof is omitted.
Moreover, the partition 530 forms the 1st compartment 125 and the 2nd compartment 126 in the exterior member 120 similarly to the partition of each embodiment mentioned above, The 1st electric power generation input into each compartment While connecting elements _{100 -1} and the second power generating element _{100 -2} electrically, the partition wall 530 in order to electrically connect the first power generating element _{100 -1} and the second power generating element _{100 -2} The structure of the conductive part to be formed is the same as that in the third embodiment and the fourth embodiment.
The battery module 50 according to the fifth embodiment has a configuration of the partition wall 530, particularly a configuration related to a lead-out portion of the positive electrode terminal 140 and the negative electrode terminal 150, and a method of installing the positive electrode terminal 140 and the negative electrode terminal 150 when the battery module 50 is manufactured. However, it is different from the above-described embodiments.
Hereinafter, the battery module 50 of 5th Embodiment is demonstrated centering on the difference.

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of the partition wall 530.
As illustrated in FIG. 10, the partition wall 530 includes a base material 531, a conductive member 332, a covering member 333, a first terminal winding portion 538, and a second terminal winding portion 539.
As described above, the electrical connection between the first power generation element _100-1 and the second power generation element _100-2 is configured by the base material 531, its opening 334, the conductive member 332, and the covering member 333. Since it is performed by the conductive part and is the same as the third embodiment and the fourth embodiment, the description thereof is omitted.

In the partition wall 530 of the present embodiment, in addition to such a configuration, as shown in FIG. 10, a first terminal winding portion 538 and a second terminal winding portion 539 are formed on the base material 531. Yes.
The first terminal winding portion 538 is a belt-like member made of modified PP as with the base material 531 and is a member for winding around the positive electrode terminal 140. Further, the second terminal winding portion 539 is a band-shaped member made of a modified PP like the base material 531 and is a member for winding around the negative electrode terminal 150. As shown in FIG. 10, the first terminal winding portion 538 and the second terminal winding portion 539 are wound around the corner of the end opposite to the opening 334 of the base material 531. The part 538 and the second terminal winding part 539 are provided so as to extend in opposite directions.

In manufacturing the battery module 50 by using such a partition wall 530 includes a first power generating element ₁₀₀ negative plate negative electrode layer of _-1 unformed region 103c _-1 As mentioned above the second power generating element _{100 -2} the of the positive electrode plate positive electrode layer non-formation region 101c _-2 after connecting in series via the conductive portion of the partition wall 430, the first power generating element _{100 -1} of the electrode group _{109 -1} is connected to the positive terminal 140 wound first terminal winding unit 538, the second power generating element _{100 -2} electrode group _{109 -2} negative electrode terminal 150 connected to the wound second terminal winding portion 539, which upper exterior member It arrange | positions between 121 and the lower exterior member 122, the electrolyte 106 is filled, and the peripheral part 124 of the upper exterior member 121 and the lower exterior member 122 is stuck.

  At this time, unlike the first to third embodiments, it is not necessary to attach the resin 141 and the resin 151 to both surfaces of the positive electrode terminal 140 and the negative electrode terminal 150 in advance. As shown in FIG. 9B, the first terminal winding portion 538 and the second terminal winding portion 539 are wound around the positive electrode terminal 140 and the negative electrode terminal 150, whereby the positive electrode terminal 140 and the negative electrode terminal 150. This is because the same modified PP as that of the base material 531 is arranged on both the upper and lower surfaces, and this can be used in place of the front resin 141 and the front resin 151.

That is, by winding the first terminal winding portion 538 and the second terminal winding portion 539 of the partition wall 530 around the positive electrode terminal 140 and the negative electrode terminal 150, the upper outer member 121 and the lower outer member 122 are interposed. When the positive electrode terminal 140 and the negative electrode terminal 150 are fused together with the partition wall 430, a part of the base material 531 disposed on both the upper and lower surfaces of the positive electrode terminal 140 and the negative electrode terminal 150 is used without using the advance resin 141 and the advance resin 151. A certain modified PP melts and permeates appropriately between each of the upper exterior member 121 or the lower exterior member 122 and the positive electrode terminal 140 or the negative electrode terminal 150, so that the upper exterior member 121 and the lower exterior member 122 become positive electrode terminals 140. And the negative electrode terminal 150 is appropriately sealed.
And thereby, the negative electrode of the first power generating element _{100 -1} of the electrode assembly _{109 -1,} and the positive pole of the second power generating element _{100 -2} electrode group _{109 -2,} via the conductive members 333 of the partition 530 The first power generation element _100-1 and the second power generation element _100-2 are connected in series.

The battery module 50 of the fifth embodiment having such a configuration also has the same effect as the battery module of each embodiment described above.
That is, from the battery module 50, only a pair of positive and negative terminals 140 and 150 for the series circuit of the first and second power generation elements _100-1 and _100-2 are led out from the battery body, The configuration can be simplified and the battery module can be reduced in size.
In addition, the two power generation elements are directly connected to each other inside the battery module 50 via the conductive member 333 of the partition wall 530, so that the internal configuration of the battery module 50 can be simplified and the volume can be reduced. The module 50 can be downsized.
In addition, since the battery module 50 has a plurality of power generating elements connected in series and the terminals at both ends thereof are led out from the same periphery of the battery body in the same direction, the current flowing through the electrode group 109 has nonuniformity. It never happens. A battery module in which terminals are led out in the same direction, which is efficient in volume and has a long life, can be provided.

In particular, in the battery module 50 of the present embodiment, the first and second power generation elements _100-1 and 100 ₋ are provided by interposing the positive electrode terminal 140 and the negative electrode terminal 150 between the upper exterior member 121 and the lower exterior member 122. When sealing ₂ , it is not necessary to attach the leading resin 141 and the leading resin 151 to the positive terminal 140 and the negative terminal 150. Therefore, it is possible to omit the step of attaching the pre-attached resin when the battery module 40 is manufactured. Moreover, use of resin can be avoided and it can contribute to reduction of a number of parts.

  In addition, this Embodiment was described in order to make an understanding of this invention easy, and does not limit this invention at all. For example, in the above-described embodiment, the space inside the exterior member is divided into two spaces by one partition, and the power generation elements are housed and sealed in each of the two spaces. Is not limited to this. For example, the space inside the exterior member is divided into three spaces by providing two partition walls, and the power generation elements are housed and sealed in each of the three spaces. The number can be changed as appropriate. As described above, each element disclosed in the present embodiment includes all design changes and equivalents belonging to the technical scope of the present invention, and various suitable modifications are possible.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a battery module according to a first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 1 (A) is a plan view thereof, and FIG. 1 (B) is a sectional view of the configuration of the battery module. It is the figure typically shown so that an understanding might become easy. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration of an electrode group of the battery module shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the configuration of the battery module according to the second embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3 (A) is a plan view thereof, and FIG. 3 (B) is a sectional view of the configuration of the battery module. It is the figure typically shown so that an understanding might become easy. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the configuration of the partition walls of the battery module shown in FIG. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a configuration of a battery module according to a third embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 5 (A) is a plan view thereof, and FIG. 5 (B) is a sectional view of the configuration of the battery module. It is the figure typically shown so that an understanding might become easy. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the configuration of the partition walls of the battery module shown in FIG. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a configuration of a battery module according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 7A is a plan view thereof, and FIG. 7B is a sectional view of the configuration of the battery module. It is the figure typically shown so that an understanding might become easy. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the configuration of the partition walls of the battery module shown in FIG. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a battery module according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 9A is a plan view thereof, and FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view of the configuration of the battery module. It is the figure typically shown so that an understanding might become easy. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the configuration of the partition walls of the battery module shown in FIG.

Explanation of symbols

10, 20, 30, 40, 50 ... battery module 100 ... power generation element 109 ... power generation element
101 ... Positive electrode plate
101a ... Positive electrode side current collector
101b ... Positive electrode layer
101c ... Positive electrode plate positive electrode layer non-formation region
102 ... Separator
103 ... Negative electrode plate
103a ... Negative electrode side current collector
103b ... negative electrode layer
103c ... Negative electrode plate negative electrode layer non-formation region 106 ... Electrolyte 120, 220, 320, 420, 520 ... Exterior member
121 ... Upper exterior member
122 ... lower exterior member 130, 230, 330, 430, 530 ... partition wall
131 ... 1st partition member
132: second partition member
231, 331, 431, 531... Substrate
232: First conductive member
233 ... Second conductive member
332 ... Conductive member
333 ... Cover member
334, 335 ... opening
436 ... 1st notch
437 ... second notch
538: First terminal winding portion
539 ... second terminal winding part 140 ... positive electrode terminal 141 ... pre-attached resin 150 ... negative electrode terminal 151 ... pre-attach resin

Claims (9)

A plurality of power generation elements having an electrode group and an electrolyte;
A plurality of compartments, each of which is separated through a partition wall in which a plurality of power generation elements are sealed and housed, and at least part of which is formed with a conductive portion in which conductivity between the front and back surfaces is ensured. A housing part for housing each of the plurality of power generating elements in the compartment,
The battery module, wherein the plurality of power generation elements are connected to each other at least one of a positive electrode and a negative electrode of the electrode group via the conductive portion of the partition wall. The plurality of power generation elements are sequentially connected in series via the conductive portion of the partition wall,
2. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a positive electrode terminal and a negative electrode terminal that are respectively connected to positive and negative electrodes at both ends of the plurality of power generation elements connected in series and led out of the housing portion. Battery module. The partition is formed of a member obtained by joining a first member formed of a first conductive material and a second member formed of a second conductive material. The battery module as described. The partition includes an insulating base material in which an opening is provided in a portion where the conductive portion is formed, and the conductive portion formed so as to close the opening in the portion. The battery module as described. The conductive portion is formed of a member obtained by joining a first member formed of a first conductive material and a second member formed of a second conductive material. The battery module described in 1. The battery module according to claim 4, wherein the conductive portion is formed by forming a clad material of a first conductive material and a second conductive material so as to close the opening of the base material. The electrode group of the power generation element has a positive electrode current collector containing aluminum and a negative electrode current collector containing copper or nickel,
One member of the first member or the second member of the conductive portion connected to the positive electrode of the electrode group is formed of a conductive material containing aluminum,
The other member of the first member or the second member of the conductive portion connected to the negative electrode of the electrode group is formed of a conductive material containing copper or nickel. The battery module according to 3 or 5. The electrode group of the power generation element has a positive electrode current collector containing aluminum and a negative electrode current collector containing copper or nickel,
The battery module according to claim 6, wherein the conductive portion is formed of a clad material of a conductive material containing aluminum and a conductive material containing copper or nickel. The base material of the partition wall is formed of resin;
In the portion where the positive electrode terminal and the negative electrode terminal of the housing portion are led out, the resin constituting a part of the base material is at least between the positive electrode terminal and the negative electrode terminal and the housing member of the housing portion. The battery module according to claim 4, wherein the battery module is disposed and sealed in the lead-out portion of the positive terminal and the negative terminal.

Images