Battery module, battery pack, and vehicle

Abstract

The battery module of the embodiment has the first to fourth batteries and a case that houses the batteries. In the case, a first partition wall separates the first battery from the second battery and the third battery from the fourth battery in a first direction, and a second partition member separates the first battery from the third battery and the second battery from the fourth battery in a second direction that intersects the first direction. A link member links the plurality of case members at the intersection of the two partition walls. The case has a rib that protrudes from a surface of at least one of the first partition wall and the second partition wall.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to battery modules, battery packs, and vehicles. Background Technology

[0002] Typically, in a battery module, multiple batteries are housed inside a casing. The casing is formed by connecting multiple casing components. In such a battery module, it is required to securely connect the multiple casing components forming the casing and to securely mount the multiple batteries individually inside the casing. Furthermore, it is required to reduce the weight of the casing and the overall weight of the battery module.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-29175 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a battery module that securely connects multiple housing components forming a housing while securely mounting multiple batteries inside the housing to achieve lightweighting, as well as a battery pack and a vehicle having the battery module.

[0008] Methods for solving technical problems

[0009] According to the technical solution, the battery module has four or more batteries and a casing that houses the four or more batteries. The four or more batteries include a first battery, and a second battery adjacent to the first battery in a first direction. 2 Battery, in the direction intersecting the first direction 2 The direction adjacent to the first battery 3 The housing includes a battery and a fourth battery adjacent to a third battery in a first direction and adjacent to a second battery in a second direction. The housing includes a first partition wall separating the first and second batteries and the third and fourth batteries in the first direction, and a second partition wall separating the first and third batteries and the second and fourth batteries in the second direction. The housing includes a first housing member, a second housing member connected to the first housing member from a side in a third direction intersecting both the first and second directions, and a connecting member connecting the first and second housing members at the intersection of the first and second partition walls. The housing includes at least one of a first rib projecting in a first direction on the surface of the first partition wall and a second rib projecting in a second direction on the surface of the second partition wall.

[0010] In addition, according to the technical solution, a battery pack equipped with the aforementioned battery module is provided.

[0011] In addition, according to the technical solution, a vehicle equipped with the aforementioned battery pack is provided. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1 This is a perspective view that roughly represents an example of a battery used in a battery module according to the relevant implementation method, broken down by each component.

[0013] Figure 2 It is a general representation Figure 1 A 3D view of the battery.

[0014] Figure 3 It means Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an example of the structure of the electrode group of a battery.

[0015] Figure 4 This is a perspective view that roughly represents an example of the battery module of the first embodiment, broken down by each component.

[0016] Figure 5 This is indicated by viewing the partition wall (first partition wall) from one side in the first direction. Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the battery module.

[0017] Figure 6 This refers to the view from the side where the top wall of the shell is located in the third direction. Figure 4 A schematic diagram showing the state of the battery module, with the second housing component omitted.

[0018] Figure 7 This refers to the view from the side where the bottom wall of the shell is located in the third direction. Figure 4 A schematic diagram representing the state of the battery module.

[0019] Figure 8 It is Figure 6 The area A1 is a magnified schematic diagram.

[0020] Figure 9 It is a general representation Figure 7 A sectional view of section A2-A2.

[0021] Figure 10 Is Figure 4 A perspective view of a portion of the first housing component of the battery module.

[0022] Figure 11 It is Figure 10 The area shown in A3 is a magnified schematic diagram.

[0023] Figure 12Is Figure 4 The first housing component of the battery module is roughly represented as... Figure 10 A three-dimensional view of different parts of the area.

[0024] Figure 13 It means Figure 12 A rough sketch of the area A4.

[0025] Figure 14 Is Figure 4 A perspective view roughly showing a portion of the second housing component of the battery module.

[0026] Figure 15 Is Figure 4 A schematic diagram of one of the eight spaces in the battery module.

[0027] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a battery pack using a battery module implemented in this manner.

[0028] Figure 17 It means that it was used Figure 16 A schematic diagram of a vehicle with a battery pack, for example. Detailed Implementation

[0029] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The battery module of the embodiments includes multiple batteries.

[0030] [Battery]

[0031] First, the individual battery cells used in the battery module of the embodiment will be explained. Figure 1 and Figure 2 This represents an example of a single cell of battery 1 used in a battery module. Battery 1 is, for example, a secondary battery. Figure 1 Battery 1 is represented by its components.

[0032] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the battery 1 includes an outer packaging container (outer packaging section) 3. The outer packaging container 3 is formed of a metal such as aluminum, aluminum alloy, iron, or stainless steel. Furthermore, an internal cavity 13 is formed inside the outer packaging container 3. In the battery 1 and the outer packaging container 3, a longitudinal direction (indicated by arrows X1 and X2), a transverse direction (indicated by arrows Y1 and Y2) intersecting the longitudinal direction (perpendicular or substantially perpendicular), and a height direction (indicated by arrows Z1 and Z2) intersecting both the longitudinal and transverse directions (perpendicular or substantially perpendicular) are defined.

[0033] The outer packaging container 3 comprises a container body 5 and a lid component 6. Figure 1In one example, the container body 5 has a bottom wall 11 and a peripheral wall 12, and is formed into a generally cuboid shape with one open side. The bottom wall 11 is located on one side in the height direction (arrow Z2 side) relative to the internal cavity 13. Furthermore, the peripheral wall 12 extends along the circumference of the outer packaging container 3, and the outer peripheral side of the internal cavity 13 is surrounded by the peripheral wall 12. In addition, the internal cavity 13 opens in the height direction toward the side opposite to the side where the bottom wall 11 is located (arrow Z1 side). In addition, in both the battery 1 and the outer packaging container 3, the side of the internal cavity (internal space) 13 relative to the peripheral wall 12 is defined as the inner peripheral side, and the side opposite to the inner peripheral side is defined as the outer peripheral side.

[0034] The peripheral wall 12 has two pairs of sidewalls 15 and 16. One pair of sidewalls (first sidewalls) 15 are longitudinally opposed, sandwiching the internal cavity 13. Another pair of sidewalls (second sidewalls) 16 are transversely opposed, sandwiching the internal cavity 13. The sidewalls 15 extend continuously transversely between the sidewalls 16. Furthermore, the sidewalls 16 extend continuously longitudinally between the sidewalls 15.

[0035] The lid component 6 is installed on the container body 5 at the opening of the internal cavity 13. Furthermore, the lid component 6 seals the opening of the internal cavity 13 and is installed on the peripheral wall 12 from the side opposite to the bottom wall 11 in the height direction. Therefore, the lid component 6 clamps the internal cavity 13 and faces the bottom wall 11 in the height direction. Figure 1 In one example, the cover component 6 is provided in a state where the thickness direction of the cover component 6 is consistent with or approximately consistent with the height direction of the battery 1.

[0036] exist Figure 1 In one example, the longitudinal dimension between the pair of sidewalls 15 is much smaller than the height dimension between the bottom wall 11 and the cover component 6, and the lateral dimension between the pair of sidewalls 16. Therefore, in the internal cavity 13, the longitudinal dimension is much smaller than the respective lateral and height dimensions. Furthermore, the outer packaging container... 3 The wall thickness extends to the outer packaging container. 3 It is formed uniformly or substantially uniformly throughout. Therefore, in battery 1 and its outer packaging container... 3 In each of them, the vertical dimension is much smaller than the horizontal dimension and the height dimension.

[0037] outer packaging container 3 Internal cavity 1 3 The centrally located electrode group 10. (Figure) 3 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of electrode group 10. (For example...) Figure 3 As shown, the electrode group 10 is formed into a flat shape, for example, and has a positive electrode 21 and a negative electrode 22. 22And separators 23 and 25. The positive electrode 21 includes a positive electrode current collector foil 21A as the positive electrode current collector and a positive electrode active material containing layer 21B attached to the surface of the positive electrode current collector foil 21A. The positive electrode current collector foil 21A is an aluminum foil or aluminum alloy foil, etc., with a thickness of about 10 μm to 20 μm. A paste containing a positive electrode active material, an adhesive, and a conductive agent is coated on the positive electrode current collector foil 21A. The positive electrode active material is not limited to these, and examples include oxides, sulfides, and polymers that can absorb and release lithium. In addition, from the viewpoint of obtaining a higher positive electrode potential, lithium manganese composite oxide, lithium nickel composite oxide, lithium cobalt composite oxide, and lithium iron phosphate are preferred as positive electrode active materials.

[0038] The negative electrode 22 comprises a negative electrode current collector foil 22A serving as the negative electrode current collector and a negative electrode active material containing layer 22B attached to the surface of the negative electrode current collector foil 22A. The negative electrode current collector foil 22A is aluminum foil, aluminum alloy foil, or copper foil, etc., with a thickness of approximately 10 μm to 20 μm. A paste containing a negative electrode active material, an adhesive, and a conductive agent is coated onto the negative electrode current collector foil 22A. The negative electrode active material is not particularly limited, and examples include metal oxides, metal sulfides, metal nitrides, and carbon materials capable of absorbing and releasing lithium ions. Preferably, the negative electrode active material is a material whose lithium ion absorption and release potential is 0.4V or higher relative to the lithium metal potential, i.e., a lithium ion absorption and release potential of 0.4V (vs. Li) + A substance with a lithium-ion storage and release potential of 0.4V (vs. Li) or higher. By using a negative electrode active material having such a lithium-ion storage and release potential, the alloying reaction between aluminum or aluminum alloy and lithium is suppressed, so aluminum or aluminum alloy can be used in the components associated with the negative electrode current collector foil 22A and the negative electrode 22. The lithium-ion storage and release potential is 0.4V (vs. Li). + Examples of negative electrode active materials with a lithium ion up to the level of / Li can include titanium oxide, lithium-titanium composite oxides such as lithium titanate, tungsten oxide, amorphous tin oxide, niobium-titanium composite oxide, tin-silicon oxide, and silicon oxide, with lithium-titanium composite oxide being particularly preferred. Furthermore, when using a carbon material that absorbs and releases lithium ions as the negative electrode active material, copper foil can be used for the negative electrode current collector foil 22A. The carbon material used as the negative electrode active material has a lithium ion absorption and release potential of 0V (vs. Li). + (Approximately / Li)

[0039] The aluminum alloy used in the positive electrode current collector foil 21A and the negative electrode current collector foil 22A preferably contains one or more elements selected from Mg, Ti, Zn, Mn, Fe, Cu, and Si. The purity of the aluminum and aluminum alloy can be set to 98% by weight or more, preferably 99.99% by weight or more. Furthermore, 100% pure aluminum can be used as the material for the positive electrode current collector and / or the negative electrode current collector. The content of transition metals such as nickel and chromium in the aluminum and aluminum alloy is preferably set to 100 ppm by weight or less (including 0 ppm by weight).

[0040] In the positive electrode current collector foil 21A, a positive electrode current collector tab 21D is formed by one of its long edges 21C and its surrounding area. Figure 2 In one example, the positive electrode collector tab 21D is formed along the entire length of the long edge 21C. In the positive electrode collector tab 21D, no positive electrode active material containing layer 21B is attached to the surface of the positive electrode current collector foil 21A. Therefore, the positive electrode current collector foil 21A has the positive electrode collector tab 21D as the portion without the attached positive electrode active material containing layer 21B. Furthermore, in the negative electrode current collector foil 22A, the negative electrode collector tab 22D is formed from one long edge 22C and its vicinity. Figure 2 In one example, the negative electrode collector tab 22D is formed along the entire length of the long edge 22C. In the negative electrode collector tab 22D, no negative electrode active material containing layer 22B is attached to the surface of the negative electrode current collector foil 22A. Therefore, the negative electrode current collector foil 22A has the negative electrode collector tab 22D as the portion without the attached negative electrode active material containing layer 22B.

[0041] The separators 23 and 25 are each formed of an electrically insulating material, electrically insulating the positive electrode 21 from the negative electrode 22. Separators 23 and 25 can be separate sheets from the positive and negative electrodes 21 and 22, or they can be integrally formed with one of the positive and negative electrodes 21 and 22. Furthermore, separators 23 and 25 can be formed of organic materials, inorganic materials, or mixtures of organic and inorganic materials. Examples of organic materials for forming separators 23 and 25 include engineering plastics and super engineering plastics. Examples of engineering plastics include polyamides, polyacetals, polybutylene terephthalate, polyethylene terephthalate, syndiotactic polystyrene, polycarbonate, polyamide-imide, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinylidene fluoride, and modified polyphenylene ether. In addition, examples of super engineering plastics include polyphenylene sulfide, polyetheretherketone, liquid crystal polymers, polyvinylidene fluoride, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyether nitrile, polysulfone, polyacrylate, polyetherimide, and thermoplastic polyimide. Furthermore, examples of inorganic materials forming the separators 23 and 25 include oxides (e.g., aluminum oxide, silicon dioxide, magnesium oxide, phosphorus oxide, calcium oxide, iron oxide, titanium oxide) and nitrides (e.g., boron nitride, aluminum nitride, silicon nitride, barium nitride).

[0042] In electrode group 10, with separators 23 and 25 sandwiched between positive electrode active material containing layer 21B and negative electrode active material containing layer 22B, the positive electrode 21, negative electrode 22, and separators 23 and 25 are wound into a flat shape with the winding axis B as the center. The positive electrode 21, separator 23, negative electrode 22, and separator 25 are wound, for example, in an overlapping manner. Furthermore, in electrode group 10, the positive electrode current collector tab 21D of the positive electrode current collector foil 21A protrudes relative to the negative electrode 22 and separators 23 and 25 in the direction along the winding axis B. And, the negative electrode current collector tab 22D of the negative electrode current collector foil 22A protrudes relative to the positive electrode 21 and separators 23 and 25 in the direction along the winding axis B to the side opposite to the side protruding from the positive electrode current collector tab 21D.

[0043] The electrode group 10 is arranged with the winding shaft B in a state that is parallel or substantially parallel to the transverse direction of the battery 1. Therefore, in the internal cavity 13 of the outer packaging container 3, the positive electrode current collector 21D protrudes laterally to one side relative to the negative electrode 22 and the separators 23, 25. Furthermore, the negative electrode current collector 22D protrudes laterally to the side opposite to the side protruding from the positive electrode 21 and the separators 23, 25.

[0044] Furthermore, the electrode group 10 does not need to have a wound structure in which a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator are wound together. In one example, the electrode group 10 has a stacked structure in which multiple positive electrodes and multiple negative electrodes are alternately stacked, and a separator is provided between the positive and negative electrodes. In this case, in the electrode group 10, the positive electrode current collector also protrudes to one side relative to the negative electrode in the lateral direction of the battery 1 (outer packaging container 3). Moreover, in the electrode group 10, the negative electrode current collector protrudes to the side opposite to the side of the positive electrode current collector protruding in the lateral direction of the battery 1 relative to the positive electrode.

[0045] In one example, the electrode group 10 is immersed in an electrolyte (not shown) within the internal cavity 13. A non-aqueous electrolyte is used, for example, a non-aqueous electrolyte prepared by dissolving an electrolyte in an organic solvent. In this case, examples of lithium salts and mixtures thereof, such as lithium perchlorate (LiClO4), lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF6), lithium tetrafluoroborate (LiBF4), lithium hexafluoroarsenate (LiAsF6), lithium trifluoromethanesulfonate (LiCF3SO3), and lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide [LiN(CF3SO2)2], can be used as electrolytes dissolved in the organic solvent. In addition, examples of organic solvents include cyclic carbonates such as propyl carbonate (PC), ethylene carbonate (EC), and vinylene carbonate; chain carbonates such as diethyl carbonate (DEC), dimethyl carbonate (DMC), and methyl ethyl carbonate (MEC); cyclic ethers such as tetrahydrofuran (THF), 2-methyltetrahydrofuran (2MeTHF), and dioxolane (DOX); chain ethers such as dimethoxyethane (DME) and diethoxyethane (DEE); and γ-butyrolactone (GBL), acetonitrile (AN), and sulfolane (SL). These organic solvents are used alone or as mixed solvents.

[0046] Furthermore, in one instance, a gel-like non-aqueous electrolyte, formed by combining a non-aqueous electrolyte and a polymer material, is used instead of an electrolyte. In this case, the aforementioned electrolyte and organic solvent are used. Furthermore, examples of polymer materials include polyvinylidene fluoride (PVdF), polyacrylonitrile (PAN), and polyethylene oxide (PEO).

[0047] Furthermore, in one example, a solid electrolyte, such as a polymeric solid electrolyte or an inorganic solid electrolyte, is used instead of an electrolyte solution as a non-aqueous electrolyte. In this case, the diaphragms 23 and 25 may not be provided in the electrode group 10. Moreover, in the electrode group 10, the solid electrolyte is sandwiched between the positive electrode 21 and the negative electrode 22 instead of the diaphragms 23 and 25. Therefore, in this example, the solid electrolyte electrically insulates the positive electrode 21 from the negative electrode 22. Furthermore, in another example, an aqueous electrolyte containing an aqueous solvent may be used instead of a non-aqueous electrolyte.

[0048] In battery 1, a pair of electrode terminals 27 are mounted on the outer surface of cover member 6, i.e., on the surface of cover member 6 facing the opposite side to bottom wall 11. One electrode terminal 27 is the positive terminal of battery 1, and the other electrode terminal 27 is the negative terminal of battery 1. The electrode terminals 27 are mounted on the outer surface of cover member 6 in an exposed state. In battery 1, the electrode terminals 27 are arranged laterally apart from each other. Furthermore, the central position of battery 1 in the lateral direction is located between the electrode terminals 27. The electrode terminals 27 are formed of conductive material, such as aluminum, copper, or stainless steel.

[0049] Furthermore, a pair of insulating members 28 formed of an electrically insulating material are provided on the outer surface of the cover member 6. The insulating members 28 are respectively sandwiched between the outer surface of the cover member 6 and the corresponding one of the electrode terminals 27, electrically insulating the corresponding one of the electrode terminals 27 relative to the outer packaging container 3. In addition, the insulating members 28 are arranged on opposite sides relative to each other, sandwiching the central position of the battery 1 in the lateral direction.

[0050] The positive collector tabs 21D of the electrode group 10 are bundled together by welding, such as ultrasonic welding. Furthermore, the bundle of positive collector tabs 21D is electrically connected to the corresponding positive terminal (positive terminal) of the electrode terminal 27 via one or more positive leads, including a positive spare lead 31A and a positive lead 32A. At this time, the connection between the positive collector tabs 21D and the positive leads, the connection between the positive leads themselves, and the connection between the positive leads and the positive terminal are achieved by welding, such as ultrasonic welding. Here, the positive leads are formed of a conductive metal. In addition, the positive collector tabs 21D and the positive leads are electrically insulated from the outer packaging container 3 by an insulating component (not shown).

[0051] Similarly, the negative collector tabs 22D of the electrode group 10 are bundled together by welding, such as ultrasonic welding. Furthermore, the bundle of negative collector tabs 22D is electrically connected to the corresponding side (negative terminal) of the electrode terminal 27 via one or more negative leads, including negative spare leads 31B and negative leads 32B. At this time, the connection between the negative collector tabs and the negative leads, the connection between the negative leads themselves, and the connection between the negative leads and the negative terminal are achieved by welding, such as ultrasonic welding. Here, the negative leads are formed of a conductive metal. In addition, the negative collector tabs and the negative leads are electrically insulated from the outer packaging container 3 by insulating components (not shown).

[0052] Furthermore, in one example, a gas release valve and a liquid injection port may also be formed on the cover component 6 (in Figures 1 to 3 (Not shown in the diagram). In the case where an injection port is formed on the cover component 6, a sealing plate is welded to the outer surface of the cover component 6 to seal the injection port. Figures 1 to 3 (Not shown in the image).

[0053] Furthermore, in the example described above, one electrode group 10 is housed in the internal cavity 13 of the outer packaging container 3, but this is not a limitation. In one example, multiple electrode groups may also be housed in the internal cavity 13 of the outer packaging container 3.

[0054] [Battery Module]

[0055] Next, a battery module having multiple batteries such as the aforementioned battery 1 will be described.

[0056] (First Embodiment)

[0057] First, the battery module of the first embodiment will be described. Figures 4 to 7 This illustrates an example of the battery module 40 according to the first embodiment. For example... Figures 4 to 7 As shown, in the battery module 40, a first direction (represented by arrows X3 and X4), a second direction (represented by arrows Y3 and Y4) intersecting the first direction (perpendicular or approximately perpendicular), and a third direction (represented by arrows Z3 and Z4) intersecting both the first and second directions (perpendicular or approximately perpendicular) are defined. Here, Figure 5 This indicates the state as viewed from one side in the first direction. Figure 6 and Figure 7 This indicates the state as observed from one side in the third direction.

[0058] The battery module 40 contains four or more of the aforementioned batteries 1. Figures 4 to 7 In one example, there are 8 batteries 1. Furthermore, in the battery module 40, two (first quantity) battery rows 41A and 41B are formed. In each of battery rows 41A and 41B, 4 (second quantity) batteries 1 are arranged along a second direction. Therefore, when the number of battery rows (41A and 41B) formed in the battery module 40 is the first quantity, and the number of batteries 1 arranged in each of battery rows (41A and 41B) is the second quantity, the second quantity is greater than the first quantity. Moreover, battery rows 41A and 41B are adjacent to each other in the first direction. Furthermore, battery rows 41A and 41B are not offset or almost not offset from each other in the second and third directions.

[0059] In each of battery columns 41A and 41B, battery 1 is arranged laterally along the arrangement direction (second direction), that is, laterally aligned with or substantially aligned with the arrangement direction. Furthermore, in each of battery columns 41A and 41B, battery 1 is arranged longitudinally aligned with or substantially aligned with the first direction, and vertically aligned with or substantially aligned with the third direction. In other words, in each of battery columns 41A and 41B, battery 1 is arranged longitudinally along the first direction and vertically along the third direction. Moreover, in each of battery columns 41A and 41B, battery 1 is not offset or substantially not offset relative to each other in the first and third directions.

[0060] The battery module 40 includes a housing 42. In the battery module 40, batteries 1 are respectively housed in storage cavities 43 inside the housing 42. Multiple batteries 1 are arranged in the storage cavities 43 as described above. Figures 4 to 7 In one example, there are 8) batteries 1, forming multiple (in Figures 4 to 7 In one example, there are two battery arrays 41A and 41B. Furthermore, the housing 42 includes a first housing component 45 and a second housing component 46. The first housing component 45 and the second housing component 46 are each formed of an electrically insulating material such as resin. Furthermore, the second housing component 46 is connected to the first housing component 45 from one side in the third direction (arrow Z3 side).

[0061] The housing 42, including housing components 45 and 46, has a bottom wall 51, a top wall 52, and a peripheral wall 53, and is formed in a generally cuboid shape. The bottom wall 51 is located on one side (arrow Z4 side) in the third direction relative to the storage cavity 43 (the outer packaging container 3 of each battery 1). Furthermore, the top wall 52 is located on the opposite side of the bottom wall 51 in the third direction relative to the storage cavity 43 (the outer packaging container 3 of each battery 1). Therefore, the storage cavity 43 is formed between the bottom wall 51 and the top wall 52 in the third direction.

[0062] In each of the batteries 1, the outer surface of the bottom wall 11 faces the side where the bottom wall 51 of the housing is located in the third direction. Also, in each of the batteries 1, the outer surface of the cover member 6 faces the side where the top wall 52 of the housing is located in the third direction. Therefore, the outer surface of the cover member 6 of each battery 1 faces the side where the first housing member 45 faces the second housing member 46. Furthermore, the housing peripheral wall 53 extends circumferentially along the housing 42 (battery module 40) between the bottom wall 51 and the top wall 52. The outer peripheral side of the receiving cavity 43 is surrounded by the housing peripheral wall 53. Additionally, in both the battery module 40 and the housing 42, the side where the receiving cavity (internal space) 43 is located relative to the housing peripheral wall 53 is designated as the inner peripheral side, and the side opposite to the inner peripheral side is designated as the outer peripheral side.

[0063] In the housing 42, a bottom wall 51 is formed by a first housing member 45, and a top wall 52 is formed by a second housing member 46. Furthermore, both the first housing member 45 and the second housing member 46 form a peripheral wall 53. In the peripheral wall 53, housing members 45 and 46 abut against each other at or near their center in a third direction. Furthermore, the boundary portions of housing members 45 and 46 are formed along the circumference of the housing 42 in the peripheral wall 53. In the circumference of the housing 42, the boundary portions of housing members 45 and 46 are formed throughout or substantially around the entire circumference of the housing 42. Additionally, Figure 6 This indicates the view from the side where the top wall 52 of the housing is located in the third direction, with the second housing component 46 omitted. Furthermore, Figure 7 This indicates the state as viewed from the side where the bottom wall 51 of the shell is located in the third direction.

[0064] The peripheral wall 53 of the housing has two pairs of housing sidewalls 55 and 56. One pair of housing sidewalls (first housing sidewalls) 55 are opposite each other in a first direction, sandwiching the receiving cavity 43. And, one pair of housing sidewalls (second housing sidewalls) 56 are opposite each other in a second direction, sandwiching the receiving cavity 43. The housing sidewalls 55 extend continuously between the housing sidewalls 56 in the second direction. Furthermore, the housing sidewalls 56 extend continuously between the housing sidewalls 55 in the first direction.

[0065] Including Figures 4 to 7 In this embodiment, as an example, the dimensions in the first direction between a pair of housing sidewalls 55 are smaller than the dimensions in the second direction between a pair of housing sidewalls 56 and the dimensions in the third direction between the bottom wall 51 and the top wall 52 of the housing. Therefore, in both the receiving cavity 43 and the housing 42, the dimensions in the first direction are smaller than the dimensions in the second and third directions, respectively. Furthermore, the dimensions in the second direction between the pair of housing sidewalls 56 are larger than the dimensions in the third direction between the bottom wall 51 and the top wall 52 of the housing. Therefore, in both the receiving cavity 43 and the housing 42, the dimensions in the second direction are larger than the dimensions in the third direction.

[0066] Furthermore, the housing 42 includes a partition wall (first partition wall) 57 and a partition wall (second partition wall) 58. Figures 4 to 7 In one example, there is one partition wall 57 and three partition walls 58. Partition walls 57 and 58 are formed by both the first housing member 45 and the second housing member 46. Furthermore, each of the partition walls 57 and 58 extends continuously between the bottom wall 51 and the top wall 52 of the housing in a third direction. Additionally, in each of the partition walls 57 and 58, the housing members 45 and 46 abut against each other at or near their central position in the third direction. Figure 5In the middle, the partition wall 57 is represented by its state when viewed from one side in the first direction.

[0067] The partition wall 57 extends along the second direction within the receiving cavity 43 and extends continuously between the housing sidewalls 56. Furthermore, the boundary portions of the housing components 45 and 46 are formed along the second direction within the partition wall 57. Additionally, the partition wall 57 is formed between the housing sidewalls 55 in the first direction, and is also formed in the first direction at or near the center of the housing 42. Adjacent battery rows 41A and 41B in the first direction are separated by the partition wall 57.

[0068] The partition walls 58 extend continuously between the housing sidewalls 55 in the receiving cavity 43 along the first direction. Furthermore, in each partition wall 58, the boundary portions of the housing components 45 and 46 are formed along the first direction. Additionally, the partition walls 58 are formed between the housing sidewalls 56 in the second direction, and are arranged apart from each other in the second direction. In each of the battery rows 41A and 41B, adjacent batteries 1 in the second direction are separated by a corresponding partition wall 58.

[0069] Because partition walls 57 and 58 are formed as described above, therefore in Figures 4 to 7 In one example, eight spaces (chambers) 61 are formed within the storage cavity 43. These eight spaces 61 are separated from each other by partition walls 57 and 58. In each space 61, one corresponding battery 1 of the eight batteries 1 is disposed. Furthermore, within the storage cavity 43, the spaces 61 have the same or approximately the same volume (size) relative to each other. Additionally, the dimensions of the eight spaces 61 are the same or approximately the same in a first direction, and the dimensions are the same or approximately the same in a second direction. Furthermore, the dimensions of the spaces 61 are the same or approximately the same in a third direction.

[0070] Figure 8 Will Figure 6 The range A1 is enlarged to represent, Figure 9 express Figure 7 Section A2-A2. For example... Figures 4 to 9 As shown, in housing 42, the first housing component 45 and the second housing component 46 are connected relative to each other by threaded components 63 and 67, which serve as connecting members. Figures 4 to 9In one example, two threaded components 63 and three threaded components 67 are provided. The threaded components 63 connect housing components 45 and 46 relative to each other at the intersection of a corresponding sidewall 56 and a partition wall 57. Furthermore, the threaded components 67 connect housing components 45 and 46 relative to each other at the intersection of a corresponding partition wall (second partition wall) 58 and a partition wall (first partition wall) 57. Therefore, the threaded components 63 and 67 are respectively positioned at or near the center of the housing 42 in the first direction.

[0071] On the first housing member 45, recesses 62 are formed in the same number as threaded members 63, and recesses 66 are formed in the same number as threaded members 67. Furthermore, on the second housing member 46, holes 65 are formed in the same number as threaded members 63, and holes 68 are formed in the same number as threaded members 67. Recesses 62 and holes 65 are respectively formed at the intersection of one of the corresponding sidewalls 56 and the partition wall 57. Additionally, recesses 66 and holes 68 are respectively formed at the intersection of one corresponding partition wall (second partition wall) 58 and the partition wall (first partition wall) 57.

[0072] Recesses 62 and 66 are recessed in the third direction from the bottom wall 51 of the housing towards the side where the second housing member 46 is located. Furthermore, holes 65 and 68 are respectively provided in the second housing member 46 extending along the third direction from the boundary portion with the first housing member 45. Recesses 62 communicate with the corresponding side of holes 65. Furthermore, recesses 66 communicate with the corresponding side of holes 68. The cross-sectional area of ​​each hole 65 and 68 perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the third direction is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​each recess 62 and 66 perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the third direction.

[0073] Each of the threaded components 63 and 67 has a head (one corresponding to 63A and 67A) and a male thread portion (one corresponding to 63B and 67B) as an engaging portion. In each of the threaded components 63 and 67, the cross-sectional area perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the axial direction of the head (63A; 67A) is larger than the cross-sectional area perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the axial direction of the male thread portion (63B; 67B). Furthermore, the cross-sectional area perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the axial direction of the head (63A; 67A) of each of the threaded components 63 and 67 is smaller than the cross-sectional area perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the third direction of each of the recesses 62 and 66. Also, the cross-sectional area perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the axial direction of the head (63A; 67A) of each of the threaded components 63 and 67 is larger than the cross-sectional area perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the third direction of each of the holes 65 and 68.

[0074] Threaded components 63 are respectively inserted into corresponding recesses 62. Furthermore, the heads 63A of the threaded components 63 abut against the bottom surface of the corresponding recess 62 from the side where the bottom wall 51 of the housing is located. Female threads (not shown) are formed on the inner circumferential surfaces of each hole 65. Male threads 63B of the threaded components 63 are respectively inserted into corresponding holes 65. Moreover, the male threads 63B of the threaded components 63 engage with the female threads in the corresponding holes 65. Thus, the threaded components 63 respectively connect housing components 45 and 46 relative to each other.

[0075] Similarly, threaded components 67 are inserted into corresponding recesses 66. Furthermore, the heads 67A of the threaded components 67 abut against the corresponding bottom surface of the recesses 66 from the side where the bottom wall 51 of the housing is located. Female threads (not shown) are formed on the inner circumferential surfaces of each hole 68. Male threads 67B of the threaded components 67 are inserted into corresponding holes 68. Furthermore, the male threads 67B of the threaded components 67 engage with the female threads in the corresponding holes 68. Thus, the threaded components 67 connect housing components 45 and 46 relative to each other.

[0076] As described above, in each of the threaded components 63 and 67, which serve as connecting parts, the head (one of each of 63A and 67A) abuts against the bottom surface of one of the corresponding recesses 62 and 66 from the side where the bottom wall 51 of the housing is located. Furthermore, in each of the threaded components 63 and 67, the engaging portion such as the male thread (one of each of 63B and 67B) is inserted into one of the corresponding holes 65 and 68, and engages with the second housing component 46 in one of the corresponding holes 65 and 68.

[0077] The partition wall (first partition wall) 57 has partition surfaces 57A and 57B. Partition surface (first partition surface) 57A faces one side in a first direction (arrow X3 side), and partition surface (second partition surface) 57B faces the opposite side to partition surface 57A in the first direction. Furthermore, the partition wall (second partition wall) 58 has partition surfaces 58A and 58B. In each of the partition walls 58, partition surface (third partition surface) 58A faces one side in a second direction (arrow Y3 side), and partition surface (fourth partition surface) 58B faces the opposite side to partition surface 58A in the second direction.

[0078] Multiple ribs (first ribs) 71 are formed on each of the partition surfaces 57A and 57B of the partition wall 57. In each of the partition surfaces 57A and 57B, the multiple ribs 71 protrude in a first direction. In partition surface 57A, the ribs 71 protrude in the first direction toward the side facing partition surface 57A (arrow X3 side). Furthermore, in partition surface 57B, the ribs 71 protrude in the first direction toward the side facing partition surface 57B (arrow X4 side). Figures 4 to 9 In one example, the ribs 71 are continuously provided in the third direction between the bottom wall 51 and the top wall 52 of the housing.

[0079] In each of the separating surfaces 57A and 57B, a plurality of ribs 71 are arranged apart from each other in a second direction. Furthermore, in Figures 4 to 9 In one example, the number of ribs 71 formed on the partition surface (first partition surface) 57A is the same as the number of ribs 71 formed on the partition surface (second partition surface) 57B. Furthermore, the ribs 71 formed on the partition surface 57A are not offset or are almost not offset relative to their corresponding counterparts on the partition surface 57B in the second direction. Therefore, the ribs 71 are arranged symmetrically (surface-symmetrically) or substantially symmetrically (substantially face-symmetrically) with respect to the partition wall 57 as the center (central surface).

[0080] In each of the partition walls 58, a plurality of ribs (second ribs) 72 are formed on each of the partition surfaces 58A and 58B. In each of the partition surfaces 58A and 58B of the partition walls 58, the plurality of ribs 72 protrude in a second direction. In the partition surface 58A of the partition walls 58, the ribs 72 protrude in the second direction toward the side facing the partition surface 58A (arrow Y3 side). Furthermore, in the partition surface 58B of the partition walls 58, the ribs 72 protrude in the second direction toward the side facing the partition surface 58B (arrow Y4 side). Figures 4 to 9 In one example, the ribs 72 are continuously provided in the third direction between the bottom wall 51 and the top wall 52 of the housing.

[0081] In each of the partition surfaces 58A and 58B of the respective partition walls 58, a plurality of ribs 72 are arranged apart from each other in a first direction. Furthermore, in Figures 4 to 9In one example, in each of the partition walls 58, the number of ribs 72 formed on the partition surface (third partition surface) 58A is the same as the number of ribs 72 formed on the partition surface (fourth partition surface) 58B. Furthermore, in each of the partition walls 58, the ribs 72 formed on the partition surface 58A are not offset or are almost not offset in the first direction relative to the corresponding rib 72 formed on the partition surface 58B. Therefore, in each of the partition walls 58, the ribs 72 are arranged symmetrically (surface-symmetrically) or substantially symmetrically (substantially face-symmetrically) with respect to the corresponding partition wall (the central surface).

[0082] exist Figures 4 to 9 In one example, within partition wall 57, the spaces 61 adjacent to each other in the first direction (in...) Figures 4 to 9 In one example, there are all eight spaces 61, each with three protruding ribs (first ribs) 71. Furthermore, in each of the partition walls 58, the spaces 61 adjacent to each other in the second direction (in...) Figures 4 to 9 In one example, there are 8 spaces 61 corresponding to 4, and each protrudes with two ribs (the second rib) 72. Therefore, in Figures 4 to 9 In one example, three ribs 71 are arranged in each of the eight spaces 61. Furthermore, two ribs 72 are arranged in each of the four spaces 61 located at both ends in the second direction. Also, four ribs 72 are arranged in each of the four spaces 61 other than those located at both ends in the second direction.

[0083] Here, let any one of the eight batteries 1 be battery (first battery) 1α. Furthermore, let's define a battery (second battery) 1β adjacent to battery 1α in the first direction and a battery (third battery) 1γ adjacent to battery 1α in the second direction. And let's define a battery (fourth battery) 1δ adjacent to battery 1γ in the first direction and battery 1β in the second direction. In the battery module 40, in the first direction, batteries 1α and 1β, and batteries 1γ and 1δ, are separated by a partition wall (first partition wall) 57. And in the second direction, batteries 1α and 1γ, and batteries 1β and 1δ, are separated by a corresponding partition wall (second partition wall) 58, namely partition wall 58α. Therefore, the space 61 where batteries 1α to 1δ are arranged is isolated from each other by partition walls 57 and 58α. Furthermore, at the intersection of partition walls 57 and 58α, the corresponding one of the threaded components (connecting components) 67 connects the housing components 45 and 46 relative to each other.

[0084] Furthermore, as described above, in each of the partition surfaces 57A and 57B of the partition wall 57, a plurality of ribs 71 protrude in a first direction, and in each of the partition surfaces 58A and 58B of the partition wall 58α, a plurality of ribs 72 protrude in a second direction. In each of the spaces 61 for housing batteries 1α to 1δ, one or more corresponding ribs 71 protruding from the partition wall 57 and one or more corresponding ribs 72 protruding from the partition wall 58α are arranged. Figures 4 to 9 In one example, three ribs (first ribs) 71 protrude from the partition wall 57 toward each of the batteries 1α to 1δ. Furthermore, two ribs (second ribs) 72 protrude from the partition wall 58α toward each of the batteries 1α to 1δ.

[0085] Figure 10 express Figures 4 to 9 The range of a portion of the first housing component 45 of a battery module 40, as in one example. Figure 11 Will Figure 10 The range is represented by an A3 scale. Furthermore, Figure 12 This indicates that in the first housing component 45 of the battery module 40, and Figure 10 Different parts of the range, Figure 13 express Figure 12 The range is A4. For example... Figure 5 , Figure 8 , Figures 10 to 13 As shown, in addition to the aforementioned ribs 71 and 72, anti-collision ribs 73A and 73B are formed on the first housing member 45. The anti-collision ribs 73A and 73B are respectively disposed in the receiving cavity 43 of the housing 42. Furthermore, in the receiving cavity 43, the anti-collision ribs 73A and 73B are respectively disposed in the third direction at the end of the side where the bottom wall 51 of the housing is located. The anti-collision ribs 73A and 73B extend from the bottom wall 51 of the housing along the third direction toward the side where the second housing member 46 (top wall 52 of the housing) is located.

[0086] exist Figures 4 to 13In one example, multiple anti-collision ribs 73A are formed on the inner surfaces of each of the housing sidewalls 55. On the inner surfaces of each of the housing sidewalls 55, the multiple anti-collision ribs 73A protrude inwardly in a first direction. Furthermore, multiple anti-collision ribs 73A are also formed on each of the partition surfaces 57A and 57B of the partition wall 57. On each of the partition surfaces 57A and 57B of the partition wall 57, the multiple anti-collision ribs 73A further protrude in the first direction from a corresponding rib 71. On partition surface 57A, the anti-collision ribs 73A protrude from a corresponding rib 71 in the first direction toward the side facing partition surface 57A (arrow X3 side). And on partition surface 57B, the anti-collision ribs 73A protrude from a corresponding rib 71 in the first direction toward the side facing partition surface 57B (arrow X4 side).

[0087] In each of the partition walls 58, a plurality of anti-collision ribs 73A are formed on each of the partition surfaces 58A and 58B. In each of the partition surfaces 58A and 58B of the partition walls 58, the plurality of anti-collision ribs 73A protrude further in a second direction from a corresponding rib 72. In each partition surface 58A of the partition walls 58, the anti-collision ribs 73A protrude from a corresponding rib 72 in the second direction toward the side facing the partition surface 58A (arrow Y3 side). Furthermore, in each partition surface 58B of the partition walls 58, the anti-collision ribs 73A protrude from a corresponding rib 72 in the second direction toward the side facing the partition surface 58B (arrow Y4 side).

[0088] In addition, Figures 4 to 13 In one example, multiple anti-collision ribs 73B are formed on each of the partition surfaces 57A and 57B of the partition wall 57. Each of the multiple anti-collision ribs 73B protrudes in a first direction from each of the partition surfaces 57A and 57B of the partition wall 57. On partition surface 57A, the anti-collision ribs 73B protrude in the first direction toward the side facing partition surface 57A (arrow X3 side). On partition surface 57B, the anti-collision ribs 73B protrude in the first direction toward the side facing partition surface 57B (arrow X4 side). Furthermore, the amount by which each anti-collision rib 73A protrudes from the housing sidewall 55 and the corresponding rib 71, 72 is smaller than the amount by which each anti-collision rib 73B protrudes from the partition wall 57.

[0089] exist Figures 4 to 13 In one example, within partition wall 57, the adjacent spaces 61 facing the first direction (in...) Figures 4 to 13In one example, there are all eight spaces 61, each with three anti-collision ribs 73A and two anti-collision ribs 73B. Furthermore, in each of the partition walls 58, the adjacent spaces 61 facing the second direction (in...) Figures 4 to 13 In one example, there are 4 corresponding spaces out of 8 spaces 61, each protruding with a bumper rib 73A. Furthermore, in each of the pair of shell sidewalls 55, the adjacent spaces 61 (in...) facing the first direction... Figures 4 to 13 In one example, there are 8 spaces (4 corresponding to 61), and each has 5 anti-collision ribs (73A) protruding.

[0090] Therefore, in Figures 4 to 13 In one example, two anti-collision ribs 73B are arranged in each of the eight spaces 61. Furthermore, nine anti-collision ribs 73A are arranged in each of the four spaces 61 located at both ends in the second direction. And, ten anti-collision ribs 73A are arranged in each of the four spaces 61 excluding the spaces at both ends in the second direction. Furthermore, in... Figures 4 to 13 In one example, along the partition wall 57 in each space 61, three anti-collision ribs 73A (ribs 71) and three anti-collision ribs 73B are alternately arranged in the second direction.

[0091] Furthermore, each of the anti-collision ribs 73A and 73B has an inclined surface 77 at its end on the side where the bottom wall 51 of the housing is located in the third direction. In each of the anti-collision ribs 73A and 73B, the inclined surface 77 is inclined such that the amount of protrusion increases the closer it gets to the bottom wall 51 of the housing. That is, in each of the anti-collision ribs 73A and 73B, the inclined surface 77 is closer to the root position of the protruding portion the farther it is from the bottom wall 51 of the housing.

[0092] Figure 14 express Figures 4 to 9 The extent of a portion of the second housing component 46 of a battery module 40, as in one example. Figure 5 and Figure 14 As shown, in addition to the aforementioned ribs 71 and 72, a plurality of anti-collision ribs 75 are formed on the second housing member 46. The anti-collision ribs 75 are respectively disposed in the receiving cavities 43 of the housing 42. Furthermore, in the receiving cavities 43, the anti-collision ribs 75 are respectively disposed at the end of the side where the housing top wall 52 is located in the third direction. The anti-collision ribs 75 extend from the housing top wall 52 along the third direction toward the side where the first housing member 45 (housing bottom wall 51) is located. Therefore, the anti-collision ribs 75 are disposed away from each of the respective anti-collision ribs 73A and 73B in the third direction.

[0093] exist Figures 4 to 14In one example, multiple anti-collision ribs 75 are formed on the inner surfaces of each of the housing sidewalls 55. On the inner surfaces of each of the housing sidewalls 55, the multiple anti-collision ribs 75 protrude inwardly in a first direction. Furthermore, multiple anti-collision ribs 75 are also formed in each of the partition surfaces 57A and 57B of the partition wall 57. In each of the partition surfaces 57A and 57B of the partition wall 57, the multiple anti-collision ribs 75 further protrude in the first direction from a corresponding one of the ribs 71. In partition surface 57A, the anti-collision ribs 75 protrude from a corresponding one of the ribs 71 in the first direction toward the side facing partition surface 57A (arrow X3 side). And in partition surface 57B, the anti-collision ribs 75 protrude from a corresponding one of the ribs 71 in the first direction toward the side facing partition surface 57B (arrow X4 side).

[0094] exist Figures 4 to 14 In one example, within partition wall 57, the adjacent spaces 61 facing the first direction (in...) Figures 4 to 14 In one example, there are all eight spaces 61, each with three protruding anti-collision ribs 75. Furthermore, in each of the pair of shell sidewalls 55, the adjacent spaces 61 facing the first direction (in...) Figures 4 to 14 In one example, there are 8 spaces (4 corresponding to 61), each with 3 protruding anti-collision ribs (75). Therefore, in Figures 4 to 14 In one example, six anti-collision ribs 75 are configured in each of the eight spaces 61.

[0095] Figure 15 This represents one of the 8 spaces out of 61. Figure 15 In the middle, it represents a cross-section passing through one of the anti-collision ribs 73A and one of the anti-collision ribs 73B in space 61. For example Figure 15 As shown, in each of the spaces 61, the anti-collision ribs 73A and 73B are respectively pushed in a first direction or a second direction by the peripheral wall 12 of the corresponding battery 1. Furthermore, in each of the spaces 61, the anti-collision ribs 73A and 73B are respectively pushed in a third direction by the bottom wall 11 of the corresponding battery 1 towards the side where the bottom wall 51 of the casing is located. Therefore, in each of the spaces 61, the anti-collision ribs 73A and 73B are respectively compressed by the pushing from the corresponding battery 1. Furthermore, in each of the spaces 61, the anti-collision ribs 75 are also pushed in a first direction or a second direction by the corresponding peripheral wall 12 of the battery 1. Therefore, in each of the spaces 61, the anti-collision ribs 75 are respectively compressed by the pushing from the corresponding battery 1.

[0096] Furthermore, in each of the spaces 61, the inclined surfaces 77 of the anti-collision ribs 73A and 73B push one corresponding battery 1 towards the side of the housing top wall 52 in the third direction. Therefore, the eight batteries 1 are each pushed towards the side of the housing top wall 52 in the third direction in their respective spaces 61 by the inclined surfaces 77 of the anti-collision ribs 73A and 73B. The batteries 1 are also pressed against the inner surface of the housing top wall 52 by the pushing force from the anti-collision ribs 73A and 73B. In each battery 1, a pair of electrode terminals 27 protrude outwards in the third direction relative to the inner surface of the housing top wall 52. In one example, one or more holes (not shown) are formed on the housing top wall 52 to communicate with the outside of the housing 42 and the receiving cavity 43. The electrode terminals 27 of each battery 1 are exposed relative to the outside of the housing 42 through one of the holes formed in the housing top wall 52.

[0097] Furthermore, in the battery module 40, multiple batteries 1 are electrically connected relative to each other using one or more busbars (not shown). The busbars are formed of a conductive material such as metal. In the battery module 40, multiple batteries 1 can be electrically connected or connected in parallel. Furthermore, the battery module 40 can also form both series connections (connecting batteries in series) and parallel connections (connecting batteries in parallel). When two batteries 1 are electrically connected using one busbar, the busbar connects the positive terminal of one of the two batteries 1 to the negative terminal of the other. Furthermore, when two or more batteries 1 are connected in parallel using two busbars, one of the two busbars connects the positive terminals of the two or more batteries 1 to each other, and the other of the two busbars connects the negative terminals of the two or more batteries 1 to each other.

[0098] In the battery module 40 of this embodiment, the housing components 45 and 46 are connected by threaded components 63 and 67, respectively, which serve as connecting parts. Furthermore, the multiple housing components 45 and 46 forming the housing 42 are connected relative to each other by the connection made by the threaded components 63 and 67. Therefore, the housing components 45 and 46 are connected without the use of adhesives or the like.

[0099] Furthermore, in the battery module 40, threaded members 67 connect housing components 45 and 46 relative to each other at corresponding intersections with the partition wall (first partition wall) 57 of the partition wall (second partition wall) 58. Thus, the threaded members 67 connect housing components 45 and 46 at locations between housing sidewalls 55 in the first direction and between housing sidewalls 56 in the second direction. That is, the threaded members 67 connect housing components 45 and 46 relative to the inner circumferential side of the housing peripheral wall 53. By connecting housing components 45 and 46 at locations on the inner circumferential side relative to the housing peripheral wall 53, the plurality of housing components 45 and 46 forming the housing 42 are securely connected.

[0100] Furthermore, in the battery module 40, the second number of batteries 1 arranged in each battery row (41A, 41B) is larger than the first number of the formed battery rows (41A, 41B). Also, in the battery module 40, the dimensions in the second direction are larger than the dimensions in the first direction and the dimensions in the third direction, respectively. In the battery module 40, as described above, in the second direction, at one or more locations between the housing sidewalls 56, the housing components 45 and 46 are connected by threaded members 67. Therefore, even if the battery module 40 uses a housing 42 with a larger dimension in the second direction, the housing components 45 and 46 are securely connected relative to each other. Furthermore, by securely connecting the housing components 45 and 46, the strength of the housing 42 can be ensured even if the battery module 40 uses a housing 42 with a larger dimension in the second direction.

[0101] Furthermore, in the battery module 40, multiple ribs (first ribs) 71 protruding in a first direction are provided on each of the partition surfaces 57A and 57B of the partition wall 57. Also, multiple ribs (second ribs) 72 protruding in a second direction are provided on each of the partition surfaces 58A and 58B of each partition wall 58. In each space 61, the movement of the corresponding battery 1 in the first direction is restricted by the ribs 71. Similarly, in each space 61, the movement of the corresponding battery 1 in the second direction is restricted by the ribs 72. Through the ribs 71 and 72, the movement of each battery 1 is restricted as described above, thereby ensuring that each battery 1 is securely disposed in its corresponding space 61.

[0102] Furthermore, the ribs 71 are arranged symmetrically (surface-symmetrically) or substantially symmetrically (substantially face-symmetrically) around the partition wall 57 (central surface). Also, in each of the partition walls 58, the ribs 72 are arranged symmetrically (surface-symmetrically) or substantially symmetrically (substantially face-symmetrically) around the corresponding partition wall (central surface). Therefore, forces can be applied more directly to each rib 71, 72 from adjacent batteries 1. This allows for more reliable fixing (installation) of each battery 1.

[0103] Furthermore, in each of the spaces 61, one or more anti-collision ribs 73A, 73B, and 75 are respectively arranged. In each of the spaces 61, the anti-collision ribs 73A, 73B, and 75 are respectively crushed by pushing against the corresponding battery 1. By crushing the anti-collision ribs 73A, 73B, and 75 as described above, the movement of the corresponding battery 1 in the first and second directions in each of the spaces 61 is more reliably restricted. Therefore, the battery 1 is more securely positioned in its corresponding space 61.

[0104] Furthermore, since the batteries 1 are arranged separately in the battery module 40 as described above, it is not necessary to attach the batteries 1 to the housing 42 using adhesives or the like. That is, the batteries 1 are securely placed in their respective positions in the space 61 without the use of adhesives or the like.

[0105] Furthermore, in the battery module 40, as described above, the movement of each battery 1 in the first direction is restricted by the rib 71. Therefore, the movement of each battery 1 in the first direction can be restricted without increasing the thickness of the partition wall 57 (with respect to the dimension in the first direction). Since the thickness of the partition wall 57 remains constant, the housing 42 is made lighter, thereby making the battery module 40 lighter.

[0106] Furthermore, in the battery module 40, as described above, the movement of each battery 1 in the second direction is restricted by the ribs 72. Therefore, the movement of each battery 1 in the second direction is restricted without increasing the thickness (dimension in the second direction) of each partition wall 58. Since the thickness of the partition wall 58 remains constant, the housing 42 is made lighter, thereby making the battery module 40 lighter.

[0107] Furthermore, in the battery module 40, the batteries 1 are pressed against the inner surface of the housing top wall 52 by the anti-collision ribs 73A and 73B. In each battery 1, a pair of electrode terminals 27 protrude outwards in a third direction relative to the inner surface of the housing top wall 52. That is, each electrode terminal 27 of the battery 1 protrudes relative to the inner surface of the housing top wall 52. The cover member 6 of each battery 1 abuts against the inner surface of the housing top wall 52, and the position of each electrode terminal 27 in the third direction is fixed. Therefore, no space is formed between each electrode terminal 27 and the busbar (not shown), making it easier for the busbar to contact each electrode terminal 27. Thus, the workability of electrically connecting multiple batteries 1 using the busbar is improved during the manufacturing of the battery module 40, etc.

[0108] (Modified Example)

[0109] Furthermore, the number of ribs 71 provided on the partition wall 57 and the number of ribs 72 provided on each of the partition walls 58 are not limited to the embodiments described above. In a certain variation, one or more ribs 71 protrude from the partition wall 57 toward each battery 1, and one or more ribs 72 protrude from a corresponding direction of the partition wall 58 toward each battery 1. In this case, the movement of each battery 1 in the first direction is restricted by the ribs 71, and the movement of each battery 1 in the second direction is restricted by the ribs 72. In addition, by providing ribs 71, the thickness of the partition wall 57 remains unchanged, and by providing ribs 72, the thickness of each partition wall 58 remains unchanged. Therefore, similar to the embodiments described above, the housing 42 can be made lighter, thus making the battery module 40 lighter.

[0110] Furthermore, in a certain modification, ribs (first ribs) 71 are formed on the partition wall (first partition wall) 57, while ribs (second ribs) 72 are not formed on each of the partition walls (second partition walls) 58. In this case, each of the partition walls 58 is formed to be thicker than when ribs 72 are provided. Furthermore, the movement of each battery 1 in the second direction is restricted by a corresponding part of the partition wall 58. In this modification, the thickness of the partition wall 57 is not increased by providing ribs 71. Therefore, in this modification, the housing 42 can also be made lighter, thus making the battery module 40 lighter.

[0111] Furthermore, in another variation, ribs (second ribs) 72 are formed on each of the partition walls (second partition walls) 58, while no ribs (first ribs) 71 are formed on the partition wall (first partition wall) 57. In this case, the partition wall 57 is formed to be thicker than when ribs 71 are provided. Furthermore, the movement of each battery 1 in the first direction is restricted by the partition wall 57. In this variation, the thickness of each partition wall 58 remains unchanged by providing ribs 72. Therefore, in this variation, the housing 42 can also be made lighter, thus making the battery module 40 lighter.

[0112] Furthermore, the number of anti-collision ribs 73A and 73B formed on the housing 42, and the number of anti-collision ribs 75 formed on the housing 42, are not limited to the embodiments described above. In a certain variation, one or more anti-collision ribs 73A and 73B are disposed in each of the spaces 61. In this variation, each battery 1 is pressed against the inner surface of the housing top wall 52 by the corresponding anti-collision rib 73A or 73B in its corresponding space 61. Furthermore, in each battery 1, a pair of electrode terminals 27 protrude outward in a third direction relative to the inner surface of the housing top wall 52.

[0113] Furthermore, in a certain variation, the anti-collision rib 75 may be omitted. Furthermore, in another variation, the anti-collision ribs 73A and 73B may be omitted. However, in these variations, at least one of the ribs (first ribs) 71 protruding from the partition wall (first partition wall) 57 and the respective ribs (second ribs) 72 protruding from the partition wall (second partition wall) 58 is provided.

[0114] Furthermore, the number of batteries 1 included in the battery module 40 is not limited to the embodiments described above. However, in all cases, the battery module 40 includes four or more batteries 1, including batteries 1α to 1δ. Also, similarly to the embodiments described above, battery (second battery) 1β is adjacent to battery (first battery) 1α in the first direction, and battery (third battery) 1γ is adjacent to battery 1α in the second direction. Battery (fourth battery) 1δ is adjacent to battery 1γ in the first direction and to battery 1β in the second direction. In all cases, a partition wall (first partition wall) 57 separates battery 1α and battery 1β, and battery 1γ and battery 1δ, in the first direction, and a partition wall (second partition wall) 58 separates battery 1α and battery 1γ, and battery 1β and battery 1δ, in the second direction. Furthermore, at the intersection of partition walls 57 and 58, the first housing member 45 is connected to the second housing member 46 by a connecting member such as a threaded member 67. Furthermore, the housing 42 is provided with at least one of a rib (first rib) 71 protruding in a first direction on the surface of the partition wall 57 and a rib (second rib) 72 protruding in a second direction on the surface of the partition wall 58.

[0115] Furthermore, when the batteries 1α to 1δ are arranged as described above, in the battery module 40, batteries 1α and 1γ form a battery row (first battery row) 41A in which multiple batteries 1 are arranged along the second direction. Batteries 1β and 1δ form a battery row (second battery row) 41B in which multiple batteries 1 are arranged along the second direction. Battery rows 41A and 41B are adjacent to each other in the first direction.

[0116] In one example, four or more batteries 1, including batteries 1a to 1δ, are arranged in a first quantity to form battery rows 41A and 41B. Furthermore, in each of these first quantity of battery rows, including battery rows 41A and 41B, a second quantity of batteries 1, larger than the first quantity, is arranged along a second direction. In this case, the dimensions in the second direction of the battery module 40 are larger than both the dimensions in the first direction and the dimensions in the aforementioned third direction.

[0117] [Battery Pack]

[0118] Next, a battery pack using a battery module according to the above-described embodiments will be described. Figure 16 Indicates use Figures 4 to 15 An example of a battery module 40 and a battery pack 80 according to an embodiment of the above. Figure 16 In one example, multiple batteries 1 are connected in series in the battery module 40. The batteries 1 are electrically connected to each other via the aforementioned busbars, etc. In another example, multiple batteries 1 may be connected in parallel in the battery module 40. Furthermore, in yet another example, both a series connection of batteries 1 and a parallel connection of batteries 1 may be formed in the battery module 40.

[0119] Furthermore, in the battery module 40 of the battery pack 80, the positive terminal (corresponding to 27) of one of the multiple batteries 1 is connected to the module terminal 91 on the positive side via a positive side lead 93, etc. Also, in one of the multiple batteries 1, which is different from the battery 1 connected to the positive side lead 93, the negative terminal (corresponding to 27) is connected to the module terminal 92 on the negative side via a negative side lead 94.

[0120] A printed circuit board 81 is provided on the battery pack 80. A protection circuit 82, a thermistor 83 serving as a temperature detector, and an external terminal 85 for power supply are mounted on the printed circuit board 81. Furthermore, in the battery pack 80, an insulating component (not shown) prevents unnecessary connections between the electrical paths on the printed circuit board 81 and the wiring of the battery module 40. The module terminal 91 on the positive electrode side is connected to the protection circuit 82 via wiring 86 and the like formed on the printed circuit board 81, and the module terminal 92 on the negative electrode side is connected to the protection circuit 82 via wiring 87 and the like formed on the printed circuit board 81.

[0121] The thermistor 83, acting as a temperature detector, detects the temperature of each of the plurality of batteries 1 forming the battery module 40. Furthermore, the thermistor 83 outputs a temperature detection signal to the protection circuit 82.

[0122] The battery pack 80 has current detection and voltage detection functions. The battery pack 80 can detect both the input current to and from the battery module 40 and the output current, as well as the current flowing through any of the multiple batteries 1 forming the battery module 40. Furthermore, the battery pack 80 can detect the voltage of each individual battery 1 within the battery module 40, and also the voltage applied to the battery module 40 as a whole. The battery module 40 is connected to the protection circuit 82 via wiring 84. The protection circuit 82 outputs current detection signals and voltage detection signals via wiring 84.

[0123] In another example, instead of detecting the voltage of each individual battery 1, the positive or negative electrode potential of each battery 1 forming the battery module 40 is detected. In this case, a lithium electrode or the like is provided in the battery module 40 as a reference electrode. Furthermore, the positive or negative electrode potential of each battery 1 is detected based on the potential in the reference electrode.

[0124] External terminal 85 is connected to external devices of battery pack 80. External terminal 85 is used for current output from battery module 40 to the outside and / or current input to battery module 40. When battery module 40 of battery pack 80 is used as a power source, current is supplied to the outside of battery pack 80 via external terminal 85. Furthermore, when charging battery module 40, charging current is supplied to battery module 40 via external terminal 85. The charging current of battery module 40 includes, for example, regenerative energy from the power of a vehicle. Additionally, protection circuit 82 can be connected to external terminal 85 via positive wiring 88 and negative wiring 89.

[0125] The protection circuit 82 has the function of disconnecting the electrical connection between the battery module 40 and the external terminal 85. A relay or fuse, etc., is provided in the protection circuit 82 as a connection disconnection part. Furthermore, the protection circuit 82 has the function of controlling the charging and discharging of the battery module 40. The protection circuit 82 controls the charging and discharging of the battery module 40 based on the detection results of some of the aforementioned current, voltage, and temperature.

[0126] For example, if the temperature detected by the thermistor 83 is above a specified temperature, the protection circuit 82 determines that a specified condition has been met. Furthermore, if overcharging, over-discharging, or overcurrent is detected in the battery module 40, the protection circuit 82 determines that the battery module 40 has met a specified condition. And, if the battery module 40 is determined to have met the aforementioned specified condition, the protection circuit 82 can disconnect the connection between the protection circuit 82 and the external terminal 85 for power supply. By disconnecting the connection between the protection circuit 82 and the external terminal 85 for power supply, the output current from the battery module 40 to the outside and the input current to the battery module 40 are stopped. This effectively prevents continuous overcurrent in the battery module 40.

[0127] Alternatively, in one example, a circuit formed in a device that uses the battery pack 80 (battery module 40) as a power source can also be used as a protection circuit. Furthermore, multiple battery modules 40 can be provided in the battery pack 80, and the battery modules 40 can be connected in series and / or in parallel with each other.

[0128] [Applications of battery packs]

[0129] The structure of the battery pack 80, which includes the aforementioned battery module 40, can be modified appropriately depending on the application. Preferably, the battery pack 80 is used in devices requiring high-current charging and discharging. Specific applications of the battery pack 80 include power supplies for digital cameras, vehicle-mounted power supplies, and stationary power supplies. In this case, vehicles equipped with the battery pack 80, including the battery module 40, can include two- to four-wheeled hybrid vehicles, two- to four-wheeled electric vehicles, electric bicycles, and railway vehicles. Furthermore, vehicles equipped with the battery pack 80 include automated guided vehicles (AGVs) used in factories and similar facilities.

[0130] Figure 17 As an example of the application of the aforementioned battery pack 80, this example represents an application to the vehicle 100. Figure 17 In one example shown, vehicle 100 includes a vehicle body 101 and a battery pack 80. Figure 17 In one example shown, vehicle 100 is a four-wheeled vehicle. Additionally, vehicle 100 may also be equipped with multiple battery packs 80.

[0131] exist Figure 17 In one example, the battery pack 80 is mounted in the engine compartment located at the front of the vehicle body 101. Alternatively, the battery pack 80 can also be mounted, for example, at the rear of the vehicle body 101 or under the seats. In particular, the battery pack 80, equipped with the aforementioned battery module 40, can be configured even in the confined space under the seats. As described above, the battery pack 80 can be used as a power source for the vehicle 100. Furthermore, the battery pack 80 can recover regenerative energy from the vehicle 100's power.

[0132] According to at least one of these embodiments or examples, a first partition wall separates the first battery and the second battery, and the third battery and the fourth battery, in a first direction, and a second partition wall separates the first battery and the third battery, and the second battery and the fourth battery, in a second direction. A connecting member connects the first housing component and the second housing component at the intersection of the first partition wall and the second partition wall. The housing has at least one of a first rib protruding in a first direction on the surface of the first partition wall and a second rib protruding in a second direction on the surface of the second partition wall. Thus, a lightweight battery module can be provided in which multiple housing components forming the housing are securely connected, and multiple batteries are securely disposed inside the housing.

[0133] Several embodiments of the present invention have been described, but these embodiments are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These new embodiments can be implemented in a wide variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included within the scope or spirit of the invention, and are included within the scope of the invention as described in the claims and its equivalents.

Claims

1. A battery module, wherein, have: Four or more batteries; and The casing houses four or more of the aforementioned batteries. The aforementioned four or more batteries include: a first battery; a second battery adjacent to the first battery in a first direction; a third battery adjacent to the first battery in a second direction intersecting the first direction; and a fourth battery adjacent to the third battery in the first direction and adjacent to the second battery in the second direction. The aforementioned housing includes: a first partition wall separating the first battery and the second battery, and the third battery and the fourth battery, in the first direction; and a second partition wall separating the first battery and the third battery, and the second battery and the fourth battery, in the second direction. The first partition wall is formed through the region between the first battery and the second battery, and the region between the third battery and the fourth battery; the second partition wall is formed through the region between the first battery and the third battery, and the region between the second battery and the fourth battery. The aforementioned housing comprises: a first housing component; a second housing component connected to the first housing component from a side of a third direction intersecting both the first and second directions; and a connecting component connecting the first housing component and the second housing component at the intersection of the first partition wall and the second partition wall. The aforementioned first housing component has a housing bottom wall. The second housing component has a top wall, and in the third direction, a storage cavity for accommodating four or more batteries is formed between the top wall and the bottom wall. The aforementioned housing includes at least one of a first rib protruding in a first direction on the surface of the first partition wall and a second rib protruding in a second direction on the surface of the second partition wall. The first rib and / or the second rib mentioned above extend continuously in the third direction between the bottom wall and the top wall of the housing. The aforementioned housing comprises: The first anti-collision rib is disposed at the end of the first rib on the side where the bottom wall of the housing is located in the third direction; and The second anti-collision rib is disposed on the end of the shell bottom wall on the surface of the first partition wall in the third direction. The first anti-collision rib protrudes further from the first rib in the first direction. The first and second anti-collision ribs are alternately arranged in the second direction. The first anti-collision rib and the second anti-collision rib are respectively crushed by the pressing of the four or more batteries, thereby suppressing the movement of the four or more batteries in the first direction or the second direction.

2. The battery module as described in claim 1, wherein, The aforementioned battery module is at least one of the following structures: The device is provided with four or more of the aforementioned first ribs, and each of the aforementioned first ribs protrudes from the aforementioned first partition wall toward each of the aforementioned first battery to the aforementioned fourth battery by one or more of the aforementioned first ribs. The device has four or more of the aforementioned second ribs, and each of the aforementioned second ribs protrudes from the aforementioned second partition wall toward each of the aforementioned first battery to the aforementioned fourth battery.

3. The battery module as described in claim 1, wherein, Each of the aforementioned four or more batteries has an electrode group and an outer packaging container that houses the electrode group within an internal cavity. In the outer packaging containers of the aforementioned four or more batteries, the longitudinal dimension is smaller than the transverse dimension intersecting the longitudinal direction and the dimension in the height direction intersecting both the longitudinal and transverse directions. The four or more batteries are respectively arranged in a state where the longitudinal direction is along the first direction and the transverse direction is along the second direction.

4. The battery module as described in claim 3, wherein, Each of the aforementioned four or more batteries has an outer packaging container comprising: a bottom wall located on the side in the height direction relative to the aforementioned internal cavity; a peripheral wall surrounding the outer periphery of the aforementioned internal cavity; and a cover member mounted to the peripheral wall from the side opposite to the aforementioned bottom wall in the height direction. Each of the four or more batteries has electrode terminals that are mounted on the outer surface of the cover component. The outer surface of the cover component of each of the four or more batteries faces the side where the top wall of the housing is located in the third direction. The first and second anti-collision ribs of the aforementioned housing push the four or more batteries toward the side where the top wall of the housing is located in the third direction. In each of the four or more batteries, the outer surface of the cover member abuts against the inner surface of the top wall of the housing by being pushed by the first anti-collision rib and the second anti-collision rib, and the electrode terminal protrudes outward in the third direction relative to the inner surface of the top wall of the housing.

5. The battery module as described in claim 1, wherein, The first battery and the third battery form a first battery array in which multiple batteries are arranged along the second direction. The aforementioned second battery and the aforementioned fourth battery form a second battery array in which multiple batteries are arranged along the aforementioned second direction. The first battery column is adjacent to the second battery column in the first direction.

6. The battery module as described in claim 5, wherein, The aforementioned four or more batteries form a battery row including the aforementioned first battery row and the aforementioned second battery row, in a first quantity. In each of the battery columns, including the first battery column and the second battery column, a second number of batteries, which is larger than the first number, are arranged along the second direction.

7. The battery module as described in claim 1, wherein, In the aforementioned housing, the dimension in the second direction is larger than the dimension in the first direction and the dimension in the third direction, respectively.

8. The battery module as described in claim 1, wherein, The first housing component includes a recess at the intersection of the first partition wall and the second partition wall, extending from the bottom wall of the housing towards the side where the second housing component is located in the third direction. On the second housing component, at the intersection of the first partition wall and the second partition wall, a hole communicating with the recess is formed along the third direction. The connecting member includes: a head that abuts against the bottom surface of the recess from the side where the bottom wall of the housing is located; and a engaging portion that is inserted into the hole of the second housing member and engages with the second housing member in the hole.

9. A battery pack, wherein, The battery module comprising any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. A vehicle, wherein, It has the battery pack described in claim 9.

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