JP2013030430A - Coupling member and battery module using the coupling member - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a battery module capable of increasing the volume-energy density of a battery pack.SOLUTION: The battery module includes plural battery blocks 1 arranged in a matrix shape. The battery block 1 includes: plural cells; and a holder extending in an axis direction perpendicular to a row direction and a column direction, and which has cylindrical storage portions 11 for storing cells. Four neighboring battery blocks 1 which are arranged in a matrix shape are coupled with each other by a first coupling member 2 extending in an axis direction. Each corners of the holder has a first curved face S1 extending in the axis direction. The first coupling member 2 has second curved faces S2 extending in the axis direction. Each of the second faces S2 is connected to the first face 1. The first coupling member 2 has a first through hole which goes through in the row direction.

Description

  The present invention relates to a connecting member for connecting adjacent battery blocks to each other, and a battery module using the connecting member.

  2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, a technology has been started to be able to cope with a wide variety of applications by connecting batteries in parallel and / or in series, modularizing a battery group that outputs a predetermined voltage and capacity, and combining the battery modules in various ways. Yes.

  The following technique has been proposed for assembling a battery module in which a predetermined number of batteries are accommodated in a case (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In the technique described in Patent Document 1, a through hole is provided in the peripheral portion of each case, and a bolt is inserted into each through hole. Thereby, cases are mutually fastened and a battery module is assembled. A battery pack configured by assembling a plurality of battery modules includes a plurality (= predetermined number × number of cases) of batteries and a plurality of cases each containing a predetermined number of batteries.

  In addition, the technique which manufactures a battery pack using a spacer is proposed (for example, refer patent document 2). In the technique described in Patent Document 2, the battery pack includes a plurality of cylindrical batteries 100 and a spacer 101 on which the plurality of cylindrical batteries 100 are mounted, as shown in FIG. By mounting each cylindrical battery 100 on each battery receiving portion 101a of the spacer 101, an array structure of the cylindrical battery 100 having a circumferential outer surface (in other words, a battery whose shape is difficult to maintain) is provided. maintain.

JP 2006-147531 A JP 2009-527075 A

  However, the technique described in Patent Document 1 has the following problems.

  In the technique described in Patent Document 1, as described above, the battery pack includes a plurality of cases each containing a predetermined number of batteries in addition to the plurality of batteries. For this reason, the total volume of the battery pack includes the volume of a plurality of cases, and the battery cannot exist in a portion occupied by the plurality of cases. In particular, in the technique described in Patent Document 1, it is necessary to provide a through hole into which a bolt is inserted in the peripheral portion of the case, and a battery cannot be present in a portion occupied by the through hole into which the bolt is inserted. . Therefore, there exists a problem that the volume energy density of a battery pack falls.

  The spacer 101 described in Patent Document 2 is a member for maintaining the arrangement structure of the cylindrical batteries 100, and is a mount member for mounting each cylindrical battery 100 on each battery receiving portion 101a. Therefore, as a matter of course, the battery groups composed of the plurality of cylindrical batteries 100 mounted on the spacer 101 cannot be connected to each other by the spacer 101.

  In view of the above, an object of the present invention is to provide a battery module capable of increasing the volume energy density of a battery pack.

  In order to achieve the above object, a battery module according to the present invention includes a plurality of battery blocks arranged in a matrix, and the battery block accommodates a plurality of batteries, the batteries, and the row direction and the column direction. Each of the four battery blocks arranged in a matrix and adjacent to each other in the axial direction. Connected by the connecting member, each corner of the holder has a curved first surface extending in the axial direction, and the first connecting member has a curved second surface extending in the axial direction, The second surface is joined to the first surface, and the first connecting member is provided with a first through hole penetrating in the row direction or the column direction.

  In the battery module according to the present invention, a gap is formed between two battery blocks adjacent in the column direction or the row direction among the plurality of battery blocks by the first connecting member, and the row direction or the column direction is formed. It is preferable that the gaps adjacent to each other are communicated with each other by a first through hole penetrating in the row direction or the column direction, and a cooling passage through which a cooling medium flows is formed by the gap and the first through hole. .

  The battery module which concerns on this invention WHEREIN: It is preferable that the 2nd through-hole penetrated to an axial direction is provided in the 1st connection member.

  In the battery module according to the present invention, it is preferable that the second through hole communicates with the first through hole.

  According to the battery module using the connecting member according to the present invention, the volume energy density of the battery pack can be increased.

FIG. 1 is a plan view showing the structure of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a structure of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is an exploded plan view showing the structure of the battery module according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view showing the structure of the battery module according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view showing the structure of the battery block. FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the structure of the battery block. FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the structure of the connecting member. FIGS. 8A and 8B are perspective views showing the structure of the connecting member. FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing the structure of the holder. FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the structure of the battery module of one embodiment. FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view showing the structure of the battery module of one embodiment. 12A to 12C are perspective views showing the structure of the connecting member. 13 (a) and 13 (b) are diagrams showing the structure of the connecting member, FIG. 13 (a) is a perspective view, and FIG. 13 (b) is a plan view. 14 (a) and 14 (b) are diagrams showing the structure of the connecting member, FIG. 14 (a) is a perspective view, and FIG. 14 (b) is a plan view. FIG. 15 is a plan view showing the structure of the spacer.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In addition, the following embodiment is only a mere illustration form of this invention, and this invention is not limited to this. The present invention can be variously modified or changed without departing from the gist of the present invention, and such modified examples and modified examples are also included in the scope of the present invention. In the drawings, each component is illustrated in a dimensional ratio suitable for illustration, and the illustrated dimensional ratio may be different from the actual dimensional ratio.

(One embodiment)
Below, the battery module which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention is demonstrated, referring FIG.1, FIG.2, FIG.3 and FIG. FIG. 1 is a plan view showing the structure of the battery module according to this embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the structure of the battery module according to this embodiment. FIG. 3 is an exploded plan view showing the structure of the battery module according to the present embodiment. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view showing the structure of the battery module according to this embodiment. In FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 3, and FIG. 4, the positive electrode plate, the negative electrode plate, the insulating plate, and the like are not shown for easy understanding.

  As shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 3, and 4, the battery module according to the present embodiment includes a plurality of (for example, four) battery blocks 1 arranged in a matrix. In the present embodiment, for ease of understanding, the case where the number of battery blocks 1 included in the battery module is four has been described as a specific example. However, in reality, there are more battery modules. Of battery blocks.

  Although not shown in detail in FIGS. 1, 2, 3 and 4, each battery block 1 has at least a plurality of batteries and a holder having an accommodating portion 11 (see FIGS. 5 and 6: 11A). And. In addition, in FIG.5 and FIG.6 mentioned later, the detailed structure of the battery block 1 is shown in figure.

  The holder 11 </ b> A has a cylindrical housing 11, and each battery 11 is housed in each housing 11 as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 described later. The cylindrical accommodating portion 11 extends in the axial direction orthogonal to each of the row direction and the column direction.

  The holder 11 </ b> A has a plurality of accommodating portions 11, and adjacent accommodating portions 11 among the plurality of accommodating portions 11 are fixed to each other. Thereby, the some accommodating part 11 is integrated. Thus, the holder 11A is configured by integrating the plurality of accommodating portions 11 together.

  The inner surface of the accommodating part 11 has a shape that can contact the outer surface of the battery. When the battery is, for example, a cylindrical battery, the inner peripheral surface of the accommodating portion 11 has a circumferential shape. The outer surface of the battery housed in the housing portion 11 is in contact with the inner surface of the housing portion 11. The accommodating portion 11 is preferably made of a material having high thermal conductivity such as aluminum (Al). Thereby, the heat generated from the battery can be efficiently conducted to the housing portion 11 and radiated.

  The four battery blocks 1 are connected by a connecting member 2 extending in the axial direction. As shown in FIG. 3, each of the four second surfaces S <b> 2 of the connecting member 2 is joined to the first surface S <b> 1 of the battery block 1. The two battery blocks 1 located at the outermost part of the battery module and adjacent in the column direction are connected by a connecting member 3 extending in the axial direction. Each of the two third surfaces S3 of the connecting member 3 is joined to the first surface S1 of the battery block 1. Two battery blocks 1 located on the outermost part of the battery module and adjacent in the row direction are connected by a connecting member 4 extending in the axial direction. Each of the two fourth surfaces S4 of the connecting member 4 is joined to the first surface S1 of the battery block 1.

  As shown in FIG. 3, each of the four corners of the holder 11A has a curved (for example, arc-shaped) first surface S1, and the first surface S1 extends in the axial direction. As can be seen from FIGS. 1, 2, 3, and 4, the first surface S <b> 1 is a part of the outer surface of the accommodating portion 11.

  As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the connecting member 2 has a second surface S2 having a curved shape (for example, an arc shape) joined to the first surface S1, and the second surface S2 has an axial direction. Is growing.

  As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the connecting member 3 has a curved (for example, arcuate) third surface S3 that joins each of the first surfaces S1 adjacent in the column direction, The surface S3 extends in the axial direction.

  As shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, the connecting member 4 has a fourth surface S4 having a curved shape (for example, an arc shape) that joins each of the first surfaces S1 adjacent in the row direction. The surface S4 extends in the axial direction.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the connecting member 2 is provided with a through hole H <b> 2 x that penetrates in the row direction. As shown in FIG. 4, the connecting member 3 is provided with a through hole H <b> 3 penetrating in the row direction.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the connecting member 2 is inserted into a gap formed between four adjacent accommodating portions 11. The connecting member 3 is inserted into a gap formed between two accommodating portions 11 that are located at the outermost part of the battery module and are adjacent in the column direction. The connecting member 4 is inserted in a gap formed between two accommodating portions 11 that are located at the outermost part of the battery module and are adjacent in the row direction.

  As shown in FIG. 1, a gap X is formed between the battery blocks 1 adjacent in the column direction by the connecting member 2 and the connecting member 3. The gaps X adjacent in the row direction communicate with each other through a through hole H2x that penetrates in the row direction. The gap X communicates with the outside of the battery module through a through hole H3 penetrating in the row direction. As described above, the gap X, the through hole H2x, and the through hole H3 form a cooling passage through which a cooling medium (for example, air, hereinafter referred to as “refrigerant”) can be circulated.

  A gap Y is formed between the battery blocks 1 adjacent in the row direction by the connecting member 2 and the connecting member 4.

  The accommodating part 11 is cylindrical shape, for example. In other words, the outer peripheral surface of the accommodating part 11 is circumferential. In this case, the second surface S <b> 2 joined to the first surface S <b> 1 (that is, a part of the outer peripheral surface of the accommodating portion 11) is joined to a quarter of the outer peripheral surface of the circumferential accommodating portion 11. A quadrant is preferable. Thereby, the four battery blocks 1 can be more firmly connected by the connecting member 2.

  Similarly, the third surface S3 joined to the first surface S1 is preferably a quadrant that joins a quarter of the outer circumferential surface of the circumferential housing portion 11. Thereby, the two battery blocks 1 can be more firmly connected by the connecting member 3.

  Similarly, the fourth surface S4 joined to the first surface S1 is preferably a quadrant that joins to a quarter of the outer peripheral surface of the circumferential housing portion 11. Thereby, the two battery blocks 1 can be more firmly connected by the connecting member 4.

  The second surface S2 joined to the first surface S1 (that is, a part of the outer surface of the housing portion 11) preferably extends from one end of the opening of the housing portion 11 to the other end of the opening. Thereby, the four battery blocks 1 can be more firmly connected by the connecting member 2.

  Similarly, it is preferable that the third surface S3 joined to the first surface S1 extends from one end of the opening of the housing portion 11 to the other end of the opening. Thereby, the two battery blocks 1 can be more firmly connected by the connecting member 3.

  Similarly, it is preferable that the 4th surface S4 joined to 1st surface S1 is extended from the opening one end of the accommodating part 11 to the opening other end. Thereby, the two battery blocks 1 can be more firmly connected by the connecting member 4.

  In the present embodiment, in order to facilitate understanding, in FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, it is exposed in the gap X and is interposed between the battery blocks 1 adjacent in the column direction. Although the width in the column direction of the intervening surfaces (see s2x and s3 in FIG. 3) is illustrated to have a certain width, in reality, the interposer surfaces s2x, The width in the column direction of s3 is preferably small as shown in FIG. 11 and FIGS. 12 (a) and 12 (b) described later, and is preferably 4 mm or more and 8 mm or less, for example. However, the width in the column direction of the interposed surface s2x and the interposed surface s3 is at least equal to the width in the column direction of the through hole H2x and the through hole H3 so that the through hole H2x and the through hole H3 can be disposed. It is preferable. When the width of the intervening surfaces s2x and s3 in the column direction is smaller than 4 mm, it is difficult to sufficiently obtain the cooling effect of the battery block 1 because the amount of refrigerant flowing through the cooling passage is small. On the other hand, when the width in the row direction of the interposition surfaces s2x and s3 is larger than 8 mm, the amount of refrigerant flowing through the cooling passage increases, but the cooling effect of the battery block 1 is sufficiently increased by increasing the amount of refrigerant. It cannot be improved. This is because the refrigerant that contributes to cooling the battery block 1 is mainly a refrigerant that circulates in the vicinity of the battery block 1. The vicinity region of the battery block 1 refers to a region separated from the battery block 1 by 4 mm, for example. For this reason, even if the width in the column direction of the interposition surfaces s2x and s3 is larger than 8 mm, the amount of the refrigerant flowing through the region other than the region near the battery block 1 is substantially increased, and the battery block The amount of refrigerant contributing to the cooling of 1 cannot be increased substantially. For this reason, the cooling effect of the battery block 1 cannot be improved sufficiently. Therefore, even if the width of the intervening surfaces s2x and s3 in the column direction is larger than 8 mm, the cooling effect of the battery block 1 cannot be sufficiently improved, and the volume of the battery module only increases unnecessarily. .

  Similarly, in the present embodiment, in order to facilitate understanding, in FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, between the battery blocks 1 exposed in the gap Y and adjacent in the row direction. Although the width of the intervening intervening surface (see FIG. 3: s2y, s4) in the row direction is shown to have a certain width, in reality, the interposing surface s2y is considered in consideration of the closest packing of the battery block 1. , S4 in the row direction is preferably small as shown in FIG. 11 and FIGS. 12 (a) and 12 (c) described later, for example, about 0.4 mm. However, it is preferable that the width in the row direction of the interposition surface s2y and the interposition surface s4 is at least equal to the minimum thickness of the connection member 2 and the connection member 4.

  Each of the second surface S2 of the connecting member 2, the third surface S3 of the connecting member 3, and the fourth surface S4 of the connecting member 4 is joined to the first surface S1 of the battery block 1, For example, chemical bonding with an adhesive (not shown) or the like is preferable. The adhesive is made of resin, for example. Specific examples of the resin include an epoxy resin, an acrylic resin, a silicone resin, and the like, and the constitution thereof is one-component or two-component, and the curing method is a room temperature type, a heating type, There are anaerobic type and moisture type.

  The connecting member 2, the connecting member 3, and the connecting member 4 are first made of resin, for example. Specific examples of the resin include, for example, PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate), PPE (poly phenylene ether), PS (Poly Styrene: Polystyrene), PC (Poly Carbonate: Polycarbonate), PP (polypropylene: Polypropylene) ), PPS (Poly Phenylene Sulfide) or PI (Poly Imide: Polyimide). In particular, the connecting member 2, the connecting member 3, and the connecting member 4 are preferably made of a resin having high electrical insulation. Thereby, it can prevent that the connection member 2, the connection member 3, and the connection member 4 electrically connect with the battery block 1 adjacent to these.

  Secondly, the connecting member 2, the connecting member 3, and the connecting member 4 are made of metal, for example. Specific examples of the metal include aluminum. In particular, the connecting member 2, the connecting member 3, and the connecting member 4 are preferably made of a metal having high thermal conductivity. Thereby, the heat from the battery conducted to the housing portion 11 can be efficiently conducted to the connecting member 2, the connecting member 3, and the connecting member 4 to be radiated. However, when the connecting member 2, the connecting member 3, and the connecting member 4 are made of metal, first, for example, the adhesive is preferably an adhesive having high electrical insulation. Secondly, for example, it is preferable to cover the surfaces of the connecting member 2, the connecting member 3, and the connecting member 4 made of metal with a film made of a resin having high electrical insulation. Thereby, between the connecting member 2 and each of the four battery blocks 1, between the connecting member 3 and each of the two battery blocks 1, and between the connecting member 4 and the two battery blocks 1, using an adhesive or a film. It is possible to electrically insulate each other.

  1stly, when the connection member 2, the connection member 3, and the connection member 4 consist of resin, the connection member 2, the connection member 3, and the connection member 4 are formed by injection molding, for example. Second, when the connecting member 2, the connecting member 3, and the connecting member 4 are made of metal, the connecting member 2, the connecting member 3, and the connecting member 4 are formed by casting, for example.

  Below, the detailed structure of the battery block 1 is demonstrated, referring FIG.5 and FIG.6. FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view showing the structure of the battery block. FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the structure of the battery block.

  As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, each of the plurality of batteries 10 is, for example, a cylindrical battery. The outer peripheral surface of the battery 10 is covered with an insulating film (not shown). In the present embodiment, the type of the battery 10 to be used is not particularly limited, and for example, a nonaqueous electrolyte secondary battery such as a lithium ion secondary battery can be used.

  As described above, the holder 11 </ b> A has, for example, a plurality of hollow cylindrical storage portions (pipes) 11, and each battery 10 is stored in each storage portion 11.

  A positive electrode plate 13 is disposed on one end (positive electrode terminal 10 a side) of the battery 10 via an insulating plate 12. With the positive plate 13, the positive terminals 10 a of the batteries 10 are electrically connected in parallel.

  On the other hand, a negative electrode plate 15 is disposed on the other end (negative electrode terminal side) of the battery 10 via an insulating plate 14. The negative electrode plate 15 electrically connects the negative terminal (battery case) of each battery 10 in parallel.

  According to this embodiment, the connecting member 2, the connecting member 3, and the connecting member 4 are inserted into the gap formed between the adjacent accommodating portions 11, and the inserted connecting member 2, the connecting member 3, and the connecting member 4 are inserted. Are joined to the accommodating portion 11. Thereby, adjacent battery blocks 1 can be connected to each other, and a battery module in which adjacent battery blocks 1 are connected to each other can be configured. Therefore, the volume energy density of the battery pack having the battery module can be increased.

  Further, it is possible to eliminate the need for bolts for fastening the cases in which a plurality of batteries are accommodated to each other.

  Furthermore, the gap X can be formed between the battery blocks 1 adjacent in the column direction by the connecting member 2 and the connecting member 3. Further, the gaps X adjacent to each other in the row direction can be communicated with each other through the through holes H2x that penetrate in the row direction. Further, the gap X can be communicated with the outside of the battery module by the through hole H3 penetrating in the row direction. Thus, a cooling passage capable of circulating a refrigerant (for example, air) can be formed by the gap X, the through hole H2x, and the through hole H3. For this reason, the battery block 1 can be cooled.

  Further, the connecting member 2 and the connecting member 4 can form a gap Y between the battery blocks 1 adjacent in the row direction. For this reason, the battery block 1 can be cooled.

  In this manner, the battery block 1 can be cooled while the adjacent battery blocks 1 are connected to each other by the connecting member 2, the connecting member 3, and the connecting member 4.

  In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, the case where only the through holes H2x penetrating in the row direction are provided in the connecting member 2 has been described as a specific example. However, the present invention is not limited to this. is not.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the connecting member 2 may be provided with a through hole H2z penetrating in the axial direction. The through hole H2z preferably communicates with the through hole H2x.

  Thus, the connecting member 2 is provided with a through hole H2z that penetrates in the axial direction. Thereby, the heat of the portion of the holder 11 </ b> A that joins the connecting member 2 (in other words, the portion that does not contact the first refrigerant (for example, air) flowing through the cooling passage) may be conducted to the connecting member 2. In addition, the connecting member 2 can be cooled by the second refrigerant (for example, air) flowing through the through hole H2z.

  Further, the through hole H2z is communicated with the through hole H2x. Thereby, the 1st refrigerant | coolant which distribute | circulates a cooling passage and the 2nd refrigerant | coolant which distribute | circulates the through-hole H2z can be replaced | exchanged. Specifically, for example, even when the first refrigerant may be warmed while passing through the gap X, the first refrigerant that has entered the through hole H2x through the gap X passes through the through hole H2z. While flowing out to the outside, the second refrigerant can flow into the through hole H2x through the through hole H2z.

  In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, the case where only the through holes H2x penetrating in the row direction are provided in the connecting member 2 and no through holes are provided in the connecting member 4 will be described as a specific example. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, as shown in FIG. 8A, the connecting member 2 is provided with through holes H2y penetrating in the column direction, and as shown in FIG. 8B, the connecting member 4 is penetrating through holes in the column direction. H4 may be provided. The through hole H2y preferably communicates with the through hole H2x.

  If it does in this way, the space | interval (refer FIG. 1: Y) adjacent to a row direction can mutually communicate by the through-hole H2y which penetrates in a row direction. Further, the gap Y can be communicated with the outside of the battery module by the through hole H4 penetrating in the column direction. Thereby, the cooling path which can distribute | circulate a refrigerant | coolant (for example, air) can be formed with the clearance gap Y, the through-hole H2y, and the through-hole H4. For this reason, the battery block 1 can be cooled.

  In the present embodiment, the second, third, and fourth surfaces S2, S3, and S4 are arranged on the outer periphery of the housing portion 11 for the purpose of more firmly connecting the battery block 1 with the connecting members 2, 3, and 4. Although the case where the part joined to the surface is a quarter of the outer peripheral surface has been described as a specific example, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the portion where the second, third, and fourth surfaces S2, S3, and S4 are joined to the outer peripheral surface of the accommodating portion 11 may be smaller than a quarter of the outer peripheral surface. Thereby, the widths of the through holes H2x and the through holes H3 can be made larger than the width of the gap X, and the connection members 2 and 3 prevent the refrigerant from being interrupted, and the refrigerant is introduced into the cooling passage. Can be distributed smoothly.

  In the present embodiment, the second, third, and fourth surfaces S2, S3, and S4 are provided in the housing portion 11 for the purpose of more firmly connecting the battery block 1 with the connecting members 2, 3, and 4. Although the case where it extended from the opening one end to the opening other end was mentioned as an example and demonstrated, this invention is not limited to this.

  In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, the holder 11A in which a plurality of hollow cylindrical accommodating portions 11 are integrated is described as a specific example. However, the present invention is not limited to this. It is not limited to. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, a holder 21A in which a plurality of through holes H21 are provided in a block 21 made of metal (for example, Al) may be used. In this case, each battery is accommodated in each through hole H21, and each through hole H21 is an accommodating portion in which each battery is accommodated. The holder 21A is formed by, for example, casting or cutting.

  In the present embodiment, the connecting member 2, the connecting member 3, and the connecting member 4 are inserted into the gap formed between the adjacent accommodating portions 11, and the inserted connecting member 2, connecting member 3, and connecting member 4 are inserted. In the above description, the case where the material is joined to the housing portion 11 by a chemical joining agent such as an adhesive has been described as a specific example, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the connecting member 2, the connecting member 3, and the connecting member 4 are press-fitted into a gap formed between the adjacent containing portions 11, and the press-fitted connecting member 2, the connecting member 3, and the connecting member 4 are inserted into the containing portion 11. You may make it join.

  In the present embodiment, the case where each corner portion of the holder 11A has the curved first surface S1 has been described as a specific example, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, each corner of the holder 11A may have a first surface having a right angle. However, in this case, the second, third, and fourth surfaces joined to the first surface are not curved but right-angled so that they can be joined to the first surface.

  In the present embodiment, the case where the through hole H2x penetrating in the row direction is provided in the connecting member 2 and the through hole H3 penetrating in the row direction is provided in the connecting member 3 has been described as a specific example. The invention is not limited to this. For example, the through holes H2x and H3 may not be provided in the connecting members 2 and 3. Even in this case, since the gaps X can be formed between the battery blocks 1 adjacent in the column direction by the connecting members 2 and 3, the battery block 1 can be cooled.

<One Example>
Hereinafter, a specific example of the battery module according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 10, 11, and 12 (a) to 12 (c). FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the structure of the battery module of one embodiment. FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view showing the structure of the battery module of one embodiment. 12A to 12C are perspective views showing the structure of the connecting member. In this example, the same reference numerals as those of the embodiment are given to the same components as those of the embodiment. Therefore, in this example, the description similar to that of the embodiment is appropriately omitted.

  As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the battery module of this embodiment includes a plurality (for example, four) of battery blocks 1. As shown in FIG. 11, the adjacent battery blocks 1 are connected to each other by the connecting member 2, the connecting member 3, and the connecting member 4.

  As shown in FIG. 12A, the connecting member 2 has a second surface S2. The connecting member 2 is provided with a plurality of (for example, two) through holes H2x penetrating in the row direction and a through hole H2z penetrating in the axial direction. The through hole H2z communicates with each of the plurality of through holes H2x.

  As shown in FIG. 12 (a), the width W2x in the column direction of the interposition surface s2x interposed between the battery blocks 1 adjacent in the column direction is small, for example, 4 mm. The width W2y in the row direction of the interposition surface s2y interposed between the battery blocks 1 adjacent in the row direction is small, for example, 0.4 mm.

  As shown in FIG. 12B, the connecting member 3 has a third surface S3. The connecting member 3 is provided with a plurality of (for example, two) through holes H3 penetrating in the row direction. The width W3 in the column direction of the interposition surface s3 interposed between the battery blocks 1 adjacent in the column direction is the same as the width W2x in the column direction of the interposition surface s2x.

  As shown in FIG. 12C, the connecting member 4 has a fourth surface S4. The width W4 in the row direction of the interposition surface s4 interposed between the battery blocks 1 adjacent in the row direction is the same as the width W2y in the row direction of the interposition surface s2y.

  According to this example, the same effect as that of the embodiment can be obtained.

  Further, the widths W2x and W3 in the column direction of the interposition surfaces s2x and s3 interposed between the battery blocks 1 adjacent in the column direction are reduced (for example, about 4 mm). Further, the widths W2y, W4 in the row direction of the interposition surfaces s2y, s4 interposed between the battery blocks 1 adjacent in the row direction are reduced (for example, about 0.4 mm). Thereby, the volume of the connection member 2, the connection member 3, and the connection member 4 can be minimized. For this reason, the battery block 1 can be closely packed and the volume energy density of the battery pack can be increased.

  Thus, when it is desired to secure a cooling passage through which the refrigerant flows in the row direction, in other words, when providing through holes H2x and H3 penetrating in the row direction, the widths W2x and W3 in the column direction of the interposition surfaces s2x and s3 are set. The first width (for example, about 4 mm) may be used.

  On the other hand, when it is not necessary to secure a cooling passage through which the refrigerant flows in the column direction, in other words, when it is not necessary to provide a through hole penetrating in the column direction, the width W2y in the row direction of the interposition surfaces s2y, s4, W4 may be set to a second width (for example, about 0.4 mm) smaller than the first width. In the case of the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10, a bus bar 16 is interposed between the connecting member 2 and the connecting member 4 that are adjacent in the column direction. In other words, the bus bar 16 is inserted in a gap (see FIG. 1: Y) formed between the battery blocks 1 adjacent in the row direction. For this reason, even if the connecting member 2 and the connecting member 4 are provided with through holes penetrating in the column direction, it is difficult to form a cooling passage through which the refrigerant flows in the column direction. Therefore, the widths W2y and W4 in the row direction of the interposition surfaces s2y and s4 may be set to the minimum width (for example, about 0.4 mm) with emphasis on the closest packing of the battery block 1.

  In this embodiment, the case of using the connecting member 2 as shown in FIG. 12 (a) and the connecting member 4 as shown in FIG. 12 (c) has been described as a specific example. It is not limited to.

  For example, the connecting member 2 having the convex portion P2 as shown in FIGS. 13 (a) and (b) and the connecting member 4 having the convex portion P4 as shown in FIGS. 14 (a) and (b) may be used. Good.

  Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 13 (a) and 13 (b), the connecting member 2 is connected to the interposition surface (see FIG. 12 (a): s2y) and has a convex portion P2 protruding in the column direction. doing. As shown in FIG. 13B, the convex portion P2 is interposed between the accommodating portions 11 adjacent to each other in the row direction, and the side surface in the row direction of the convex portion P2 is separated from the adjacent accommodating portion 11 in the row direction. doing.

  As shown in FIGS. 14 (a) and 14 (b), the connecting member 4 is connected to the intervening surface (see FIG. 12 (c): s4) and has a protrusion P4 protruding in the column direction. As shown in FIG. 14B, the convex portion P4 is interposed between the accommodating portions 11 adjacent in the row direction, and the side surface in the row direction of the convex portion P4 is separated from the accommodating portion 11 adjacent in the row direction. doing.

  Thus, when the widths W2y and W4 in the row direction of the interposition surfaces s2y and s4 are small, it is preferable to provide the convex portion P2 and the convex portion P4.

  The present invention can increase the volume energy density of a battery pack, and is useful for a battery module using a connecting member.

1 battery block 2 connecting member (first connecting member)
3 connecting member (second connecting member)
4 connecting member (second connecting member)
S1 1st surface S2 2nd surface S3 3rd surface S4 4th surface (3rd surface)
H2x through hole (first through hole)
H2y through hole (first through hole)
H2z through hole (second through hole)
H3 through hole (second through hole)
H4 through hole (second through hole)
s2x, s2y, s3, s4 Intervening surfaces W2x, W2y, W3, W4 Width P2, P4 Convex part X, Y Gap 10 Battery 11 Housing part 11A Holder 12 Insulating board 13 Positive electrode 14 Insulating board 15 Negative electrode 16 Bus bar 21 Block 21A Holder H21 Through hole

Claims (17)

It has a plurality of battery blocks arranged in a matrix,
The battery block is
Multiple batteries,
A holder having a cylindrical housing portion in which the battery is housed and extending in an axial direction perpendicular to each of the row direction and the column direction;
The four battery blocks that are arranged in a matrix and are adjacent to each other among the plurality of battery blocks are connected by a first connecting member that extends in the axial direction,
Each corner of the holder has a curved first surface extending in the axial direction,
The first connecting member has a curved second surface extending in the axial direction;
The second surface is bonded to the first surface;
The battery module, wherein the first connecting member is provided with a first through hole penetrating in a row direction or a column direction. The battery module according to claim 1,
A gap is formed between two battery blocks adjacent to each other in the column direction or the row direction among the plurality of battery blocks by the first connecting member,
The gaps adjacent in the row direction or the column direction are communicated with each other by the first through holes penetrating in the row direction or the column direction,
A battery module in which a cooling passage through which a cooling medium flows is formed by the gap and the first through hole. The battery module according to claim 2,
The first connecting member has an interposition surface that is exposed in the gap and is interposed between the two battery blocks adjacent to each other in a column direction or a row direction.
The width of the interposition surface in the column direction or the row direction is 4 mm or more and 8 mm or less. The battery module according to claim 2,
The battery module, wherein the first connecting member is provided with a second through hole penetrating in the axial direction. The battery module according to claim 4,
The battery module, wherein the second through hole communicates with the first through hole. The battery module according to claim 2,
The accommodating portion is cylindrical,
The first surface is a part of the outer peripheral surface of the housing portion,
The battery is characterized in that the second surface joined to a part of the outer circumferential surface of the housing portion is a quadrant that joins a quarter of the outer circumferential surface of the circumferential housing portion. module. The battery module according to claim 2,
The accommodating portion is a hollow cylinder,
The first surface is a part of the outer surface of the housing portion,
The battery module, wherein the second surface joined to a part of the outer surface of the housing portion extends from one end of the opening to the other end of the opening. The battery module according to claim 2,
The battery module, wherein the second surface is bonded to the first surface by an adhesive. The battery module according to claim 8, wherein
The connecting member is made of metal,
The battery module, wherein the adhesive is electrically insulated from the first connecting member and each of the four battery blocks. The battery module according to claim 2,
The connecting member is made of metal,
The surface of the first connecting member is covered with a film,
The battery module is characterized in that the first connecting member and each of the four battery blocks are electrically insulated by the film. The battery module according to claim 2,
The battery module, wherein the first connecting member is made of resin. The battery module according to claim 2,
The two battery blocks arranged on the outermost side of the plurality of battery blocks and adjacent in the column direction or the row direction are connected by a second connection member extending in the axial direction,
The second connecting member has a curved third surface that joins each of the first surfaces adjacent in the column direction or the row direction and extends in the axial direction,
The battery module, wherein the second connecting member is provided with a second through hole penetrating in a row direction or a column direction. A connecting member that connects the four battery blocks arranged in a matrix and adjacent to each other among a plurality of battery blocks,
The battery block is
Multiple batteries,
A holder having a cylindrical housing portion in which the battery is housed and extending in an axial direction perpendicular to each of the row direction and the column direction;
Each corner of the holder has a curved first surface extending in the axial direction,
The connecting member has a curved second surface extending in the axial direction;
The second surface is bonded to the first surface;
The connecting member is provided with a first through hole penetrating in a row direction or a column direction. The connecting member according to claim 13,
A gap is formed between the two battery blocks adjacent to each other in the column direction or the row direction among the plurality of battery blocks by the connecting member,
The gaps adjacent in the row direction or the column direction are communicated with each other by the first through holes penetrating in the row direction or the column direction,
A cooling member through which a cooling medium flows is formed by the gap and the first through hole. The connecting member according to claim 14,
The connecting member is provided with a second through hole penetrating in the axial direction. The connecting member according to claim 15,
The connection member, wherein the second through hole communicates with the first through hole. It has a plurality of battery blocks arranged in a matrix,
The battery block is
Battery,
A holder having a cylindrical housing portion in which the battery is housed and extending in an axial direction perpendicular to each of the row direction and the column direction;
The four battery blocks that are arranged in a matrix and are adjacent to each other among the plurality of battery blocks are connected by a first connecting member that extends in the axial direction,
Each corner of the holder has a first surface extending in the axial direction,
The first connecting member has a second surface joined to the first surface;
A battery module, wherein a gap is formed between two battery blocks adjacent to each other in a column direction or a row direction among the plurality of battery blocks by the first connecting member.

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