Power storage module

Abstract

The power storage module comprises: an array body having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface, wherein a plurality of power storage devices are arranged in a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions, the power storage devices being larger in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction than in a first direction in which the first surface and the second surface are arranged; a first restraining member facing the first surface of each power storage device, extending in the third direction and restraining the array body in the third direction; and a second restraining member facing the second surface of each power storage device, extending in the third direction and restraining the array body in the third direction. At least one of the first restraining member and the second restraining member has a hole portion consisting of a recessed portion recessed in the first direction or a through hole penetrating the restraining member in the first direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a power storage module. Background Art

[0002] As a power source requiring a high output voltage, such as for vehicles, a power storage module in which a plurality of power storage devices (such as batteries) are connected in series is known. Regarding such a power storage module, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses a battery pack comprising: a plurality of batteries; a pair of end plates disposed at both ends in the arrangement direction of the batteries; and a restraining member (connecting rod) mounted between the pair of end plates and restraining the plurality of batteries in the arrangement direction. In this battery pack, the batteries have a shape in which the width is larger than the height, and the pair of restraining members clamp the plurality of batteries in the height direction.

[0003] Prior Art Literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-169270 Summary of the invention

[0006] -Problems to be solved by the invention-

[0007] When restraining a battery whose width is larger than its height, a structure in which a pair of restraining members are used to clamp the battery in the width direction can increase the restraining member size and strength. However, if the restraining member is enlarged, the mass of the battery module increases.

[0008] The present disclosure has been made in view of such circumstances, and one of its objects is to provide a technology for reducing the weight of a restraint member included in a power storage module.

[0009] -Methods for solving the problem-

[0010] A certain aspect of the present disclosure is a power storage module. The power storage module comprises: an array body having a first face and a second face opposite to the first face, wherein a plurality of power storage devices are arranged in a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions, the power storage devices being larger in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction than in the first direction in which the first and second faces are arranged; a first restraining member facing the first face of each power storage device, extending in a third direction and restraining the array body in the third direction; and a second restraining member facing the second face of each power storage device, extending in the third direction and restraining the array body in the third direction. At least one of the first restraining member and the second restraining member has a hole portion consisting of a recessed portion recessed in the first direction or a through hole penetrating the restraining member in the first direction.

[0011] Optional combinations of the above-described constituent elements and embodiments in which the present disclosure is expressed in the form of methods, apparatuses, systems, and the like are also effective as additional embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0012] -Effects of the Invention-

[0013] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to reduce the weight of the restraint member included in the power storage module. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of the power storage module according to the first embodiment.

[0015] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of the power storage module.

[0016] Figure 3 It is a perspective view of the power storage device and the separator.

[0017] Figure 4A It is a perspective view showing how the spacer and the second restraint member are fitted together.

[0018] Figure 4B It is a cross-sectional view showing the spacer and the second restraining member fitted with each other.

[0019] Figure 5 It is a perspective view of a second restraint member included in the power storage module according to the second embodiment.

[0020] Figure 6 It is a perspective view showing how the spacer and the second restraint member are fitted together.

[0021] Figure 7 It is a perspective view showing how the second restraint member and the spacer included in the power storage module according to Modification 1 are fitted into each other.

[0022] Figure 8 It is a perspective view of a second restraint member included in the power storage module according to Modification 2.

[0023] Fig. 9 It is a perspective view showing how the second restraining member and the spacer are fitted together.

[0024] Fig.10 It is a perspective view of a second restraint member included in the power storage module according to Modification 3.

[0025] Fig.11 It is a perspective view showing how the second restraining member and the spacer are fitted together. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] Hereinafter, the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings based on appropriate implementation methods. The implementation methods do not limit the present disclosure but are examples, and all the features or combinations thereof described in the implementation methods are not necessarily the essence of the present disclosure. The same symbols are given to the same or equivalent structural elements, components, and processes shown in the drawings, and repeated descriptions are appropriately omitted. In addition, the scales and shapes of the various parts shown in the various figures are conveniently set for easy description, and are not interpreted in a limiting sense unless otherwise mentioned. In addition, when terms such as "first" and "second" are used in this specification or claims, they do not indicate any order or importance, and are used to distinguish a certain structure from other structures, unless otherwise mentioned. In addition, a part of the components that are not important in describing the implementation methods is omitted in each of the drawings.

[0027] (Implementation Method 1)

[0028] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of the power storage module according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 The power storage module 1 includes an array 2 , a first restraining member 4 , a second restraining member 6 , a heat conducting member 8 , and a cooling plate 10 .

[0029] The array 2 includes a plurality of power storage devices 12 , a plurality of spacers 14 , and a pair of end plates 16 . Figure 3 It is a perspective view of the power storage device 12 and the spacer 14 .

[0030] Each power storage device 12 is, for example, a rechargeable secondary battery such as a lithium ion battery, a nickel-hydrogen battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, or a capacitor such as an electric double layer capacitor. The power storage device 12 of this embodiment is a so-called square battery, and has a flat rectangular parallelepiped housing 18. The housing 18 includes an outer can 20 and a sealing plate 22.

[0031] The outer can 20 has a substantially rectangular opening on one side, and the electrode body, electrolyte, etc. are contained in the outer can 20 through the opening. The outer can 20 has: a bottom surface opposite to the opening, and four side surfaces connecting the opening and the bottom surface. Two of the four side surfaces are a pair of long side surfaces connected to the two long sides opposite to the opening. Each long side surface is the surface with the largest area among the surfaces of the outer can 20, that is, the main surface. The remaining two side surfaces other than the two long side surfaces are a pair of short side surfaces connected to the short sides of the opening of the outer can 20.

[0032] The outer tank 20 may also be covered with an insulating film (not shown) such as a shrink tube. By covering the surface of the outer tank 20 with an insulating film, short circuits between adjacent power storage devices 12 can be suppressed. In addition, short circuits between the power storage device 12 and each of the end plate 16, the first restraint member 4, and the second restraint member 6 can be suppressed. In the opening of the outer tank 20, a sealing plate 22 is fitted to block the opening to seal the outer tank 20. The outer tank 20 and the sealing plate 22 are conductive bodies, such as metals including aluminum, iron, stainless steel, etc. The outer tank 20 and the sealing plate 22 are joined, for example, by laser, friction stir joining, welding, etc. Alternatively, the outer tank 20 and the sealing plate 22 contain an insulating resin.

[0033] A pair of output terminals 24 are disposed on the sealing plate 22. Specifically, a positive terminal 24a is disposed at one end of the sealing plate 22 in the long-side direction, and a negative terminal 24b is disposed at the other end. Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish the polarities of the pair of output terminals 24, the positive terminal 24a and the negative terminal 24b are collectively referred to as the output terminal 24.

[0034] The sealing plate 22 on which a pair of output terminals 24 are arranged constitutes the first surface 12a of the power storage device 12. The bottom surface of the outer can 20 constitutes the second surface 12b of the power storage device 12. The first surface 12a and the second surface 12b are opposite to each other. In the description of this embodiment, for convenience, the first surface 12a side of the power storage device 12 is set to the upper side in the vertical direction, and the second surface 12b side of the power storage device 12 is set to the lower side in the vertical direction. In addition, the long side and the short side of the outer can 20 are respectively set as the long side and the short side of the power storage device 12. In addition, in the array 2, the surface on the first surface 12a side of the power storage device 12 is set as the upper surface of the array 2, the surface on the second surface 12b side of the power storage device 12 is set as the lower surface of the array 2, and the surface on the short side side of the power storage device 12 is set as the side of the array 2. In addition, the pair of output terminals 24 may not be arranged on the first surface 12a. For example, the pair of output terminals 24 may be disposed on the short side surfaces of the power storage device 12 .

[0035] These directions and positions are defined for convenience. Therefore, for example, the portion defined as the upper surface in the present disclosure does not necessarily mean that it is located at a position higher than the portion defined as the lower surface. Therefore, the first surface 12a is not limited to being located at a position higher than the second surface 12b. In addition, hereinafter, the direction in which the first surface 12a and the second surface 12b are arranged is set as the first direction A, the direction in which a pair of output terminals 24 are arranged is set as the second direction B, and the direction in which multiple power storage devices 12 are arranged (stacked) is set as the third direction C. The first direction A, the second direction B, and the third direction C are mutually orthogonal directions.

[0036] The power storage device 12 has a valve portion 26 on the first surface 12a. The valve portion 26 is arranged between a pair of output terminals 24 in the sealing plate 22. The valve portion 26 is configured to open when the internal pressure of the housing 18 rises to a predetermined value or more, and release the gas inside the housing 18. The valve portion 26 includes, for example: a thin-walled portion having a thickness thinner than other portions provided on a portion of the sealing plate 22, and a linear groove formed on the surface of the thin-walled portion. In this structure, if the internal pressure of the housing 18 rises, the thin-walled portion is ruptured starting from the groove, and the valve portion 26 opens.

[0037] A plurality of power storage devices 12 are arranged in a third direction C at a predetermined interval so that the long sides of adjacent power storage devices 12 are opposite to each other. In addition, each power storage device 12 is arranged so that the first surface 12a faces the same direction. Two adjacent power storage devices 12 are arranged so that the positive terminal 24a of one power storage device 12 is adjacent to the negative terminal 24b of the other power storage device 12. The positive terminal 24a and the negative terminal 24b are connected in series via a bus bar (not shown). In addition, the output terminals 24 of the same polarity in the adjacent plurality of power storage devices 12 can be connected in parallel to each other through a bus bar to form a power storage device block, and the power storage device blocks can be connected in series to each other.

[0038] The separator 14, also called an insulating spacer, is arranged between the opposing long sides of two adjacent power storage devices 12 to electrically insulate the two power storage devices 12. The separator 14, for example, contains a resin having insulating properties. Examples of the resin constituting the separator 14 include thermoplastic resins such as polypropylene (PP), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polycarbonate (PC), and NORYL (registered trademark) resin (modified PPE). A plurality of power storage devices 12 and a plurality of separators 14 are alternately stacked. In addition, the separator 14 is also arranged between the power storage device 12 and the end plate 16. Thus, the power storage device 12 is insulated from the end plate 16.

[0039] The spacer 14 has a main body 28, a wall 30, and a plurality of protrusions 32. The main body 28 is in the shape of a plate and exists between the long sides of two adjacent power storage devices 12. The wall 30 extends in the third direction C from two side edges arranged in the second direction B of the main body 28, and mainly covers the short sides of the power storage device 12. Some of the plurality of protrusions 32 protrude upward from the upper edge of the main body 28, and the remaining protrusions 32 protrude downward from the lower edge of the main body 28. The function of the protrusions 32 will be described in detail later. In the present embodiment, the main body 28, the wall 30, and the plurality of protrusions 32 are integrally formed.

[0040] A pair of end plates 16 are arranged at both ends of the plurality of power storage devices 12 in the third direction C. The plurality of power storage devices 12 and the plurality of spacers 14 arranged in parallel are sandwiched by the pair of end plates 16 in the third direction C. The end plates 16 include, for example, metal plates or resin plates. The end plates 16 are provided with screw holes 36 into which screws 34 serving as fixing members are screwed.

[0041] The first restraint member 4 and the second restraint member 6 are also called connecting rods. The first restraint member 4 and the second restraint member 6 are arranged to face each other in the first direction A. The first restraint member 4 is opposite to the first surface 12a of each power storage device 12 and extends in the third direction C. The second restraint member 6 is opposite to the second surface 12b of each power storage device 12 and extends in the third direction C. There is an arrangement body 2 between the first restraint member 4 and the second restraint member 6.

[0042] The first restraining member 4 has a first main body 38 and a pair of first arm portions 40. The first main body 38 is a rectangular plate-like body extending in the third direction C. The first main body 38 extends parallel to the first surface 12a of each power storage device 12. When viewed from the first direction A, the contour of the first main body 38 is substantially the same as the contour of the upper surface of the arrangement body 2. A pair of first arm portions 40 extend from both ends of the first main body 38 in the third direction C toward the second restraining member 6 side. The pair of first arm portions 40 are opposed to each other in the third direction C. In each first arm portion 40, a through hole 42 is provided through which the screw 34 is inserted.

[0043] The second restraining member 6 has a second main body 44 and a pair of second arm portions 46. The second main body 44 is a rectangular plate-like body extending in the third direction C. The second main body 44 extends parallel to the second surface 12b of each power storage device 12. When viewed from the first direction A, the contour of the second main body 44 is substantially the same as the contour of the lower surface of the arrangement body 2. A pair of second arm portions 46 extend from both ends of the second main body 44 in the third direction C toward the first restraining member 4 side. The pair of second arm portions 46 are opposed to each other in the third direction C. In each second arm portion 46, a through hole 48 is provided through which the screw 34 is inserted.

[0044] At least one of the first restraining member 4 and the second restraining member 6 is composed of a sheet material. In the present embodiment, both the first restraining member 4 and the second restraining member 6 are composed of a sheet material. The main body and a pair of arm parts can be formed, for example, by bending the two ends of a metal plate. In this case, the arm part is from the bending position to the front end, and the remaining part is the main body. In addition, if the rigidity above the prescribed level can be obtained, the restraining member can also be made of resin. In addition, at least one of the first restraining member 4 and the second restraining member 6 can also be divided into a plurality of parts.

[0045] The power storage module 1 is assembled, for example, as follows. That is, a plurality of power storage devices 12 and a plurality of spacers 14 are alternately arranged and sandwiched by a pair of end plates 16 in the third direction C, thereby forming an arrangement body 2. The arrangement body 2 is sandwiched by a first restraining member 4 and a second restraining member 6 in the first direction A. The first restraining member 4 is positioned so that the through hole 42 overlaps with the screw hole 36 of the end plate 16. The second restraining member 6 is positioned so that the through hole 48 overlaps with the screw hole 36 of the end plate 16. In this state, the screw 34 is inserted into the through holes 42 and 48 and is screwed into the screw hole 36.

[0046] The array body 2 is constrained in the third direction C by the first constraining member 4 and the second constraining member 6 connected to a pair of end plates 16. Each power storage device 12 is fastened in the third direction C by the first constraining member 4 and the second constraining member 6, thereby positioning in the third direction C. In addition, the first arm portion 40 and the second arm portion 46 and the end plate 16 may also be fixed by welding or the like. In addition, the surfaces of the first constraining member 4 and the second constraining member 6 that are opposite to the array body 2 may be covered by an insulating sheet (not shown).

[0047] As an example, after these positionings are completed, a bus bar is installed on the output terminal 24 of each power storage device 12, and the output terminals 24 of the plurality of power storage devices 12 are electrically connected to each other. For example, the bus bar is fixed to the output terminal 24 by welding. Then, the upper surface of the arrangement body 2 is covered with a cover member (not shown). The cover member can prevent condensation water, dust, etc. from contacting the output terminal 24, the bus bar, the valve portion 26, etc. The cover member, for example, includes an insulating resin and can be fixed to the upper surface of the arrangement body 2 by a known fixing structure (not shown) including screws and a known locking mechanism.

[0048] The first restraining member 4 and the second restraining member 6 have a hole portion 50. The hole portion 50 of the present embodiment is composed of a through hole that penetrates the main body of each restraining member in the first direction A. In addition, the hole portion 50 may also be composed of a recessed portion that is recessed in the first direction A. By providing the first restraining member 4 with the hole portion 50, the first restraining member 4 can be made lightweight. By providing the second restraining member 6 with the hole portion 50, the second restraining member 6 can be made lightweight.

[0049] The first restraint member 4 of the present embodiment has three hole portions 50 extending in the third direction C of the arrangement of the power storage devices 12 and overlapping with the plurality of power storage devices 12. Each hole portion 50 overlaps with all the power storage devices 12 constituting the arrangement body 2. In addition, each hole portion 50 may overlap with only a portion of the power storage devices 12. The three hole portions 50 are arranged at predetermined intervals in the second direction B. When viewed from the first direction A, the hole portions 50 at both ends overlap with the output terminals 24 of each power storage device 12. When viewed from the first direction A, the central hole portion 50 overlaps with the valve portion 26 of each power storage device 12. As a result, the output terminal 24 and the valve portion 26 of each power storage device 12 are exposed to the outside. The number of hole portions 50 is not limited, and one or more is sufficient.

[0050] The second restraining member 6 of the present embodiment has three holes 50 extending in the third direction C and overlapping with the plurality of power storage devices 12. Each hole 50 overlaps with all of the power storage devices 12 constituting the array 2. In addition, each hole 50 may overlap with only a portion of the power storage devices 12. The three holes 50 are arranged at predetermined intervals in the second direction B. A heat conduction member 8 is embedded in each hole 50.

[0051] The heat conduction member 8 is housed in the hole 50 and is in heat exchangeable contact with the second surface 12b of each power storage device 12. For example, the heat conduction member 8 is directly in contact with the second surface 12b. The heat conduction member 8 includes a material having a higher thermal conductivity than air. Preferably, the heat conduction member 8 has insulating properties. In addition, preferably, the heat conduction member 8 has flexibility. As the heat conduction member 8, a known resin sheet having good thermal conductivity such as acrylic rubber, silicone rubber, or a known cooling gel can be used.

[0052] The cooling plate 10 is a mechanism for cooling a plurality of power storage devices 12. The cooling plate 10 includes a material having high thermal conductivity, such as aluminum. The bottom surface of the array body 2, that is, the second restraint member 6 side, faces the cooling plate 10, and is placed on the main surface of the cooling plate 10 via the second restraint member 6. In this state, the cooling plate 10 is connected to the heat conduction member 8 in a heat exchangeable manner. For example, the heat conduction member 8 is directly connected to the cooling plate 10. Each power storage device 12 is cooled by heat exchange with the cooling plate 10 via the heat conduction member 8. In addition, the second restraint member 6 may also be connected to the cooling plate 10 in a heat exchangeable manner. In this case, each power storage device 12 can exchange heat with the cooling plate 10 via the heat conduction member 8 and the second restraint member 6. The cooling plate 10 is provided with a refrigerant pipe (not shown) through which a refrigerant such as water or ethylene glycol flows.

[0053] Preferably, the heat conduction member 8 is elastically deformed by being sandwiched between the array body 2 and the cooling plate 10 to fill the gap between the second surface 12b of each power storage device 12 and the cooling plate 10. Thus, the cooling efficiency of each power storage device 12 can be improved.

[0054] As described above, each spacer 14 has a plurality of protrusions 32 protruding upward and downward. Each spacer 14 has three protrusions 32 at the top and bottom. The three protrusions 32 protruding upward are configured to overlap with the three holes 50 of the first restraining member 4 as viewed from the first direction A and fit into each hole 50. The three protrusions 32 protruding downward are configured to overlap with the three holes 50 of the second restraining member 6 as viewed from the first direction A and fit into each hole 50.

[0055] Figure 4A It is a perspective view showing a state where the spacer 14 and the second restraint member 6 are fitted together. Figure 4B It is a cross-sectional view showing the spacer 14 and the second restraint member 6 fitted with each other. Figure 4A as well as Figure 4B , the second restraining member 6 and the spacer 14 are shown in the figure, but the first restraining member 4 and the spacer 14 are also similarly fitted. Figure 4A In the figure, the second arm portion 46 is omitted.

[0056] When the convex portion 32 is inserted into the hole portion 50, it contacts two inner side surfaces 50B of the inner side surfaces of the hole portion 50 that are opposed to each other in the second direction B. The dimension of the convex portion 32 in the second direction B is substantially equal to the distance between the two inner side surfaces 50B, and the convex portion 32 inserted into the hole portion 50 is sandwiched in the second direction B by the two inner side surfaces 50B.

[0057] As described above, the power storage module 1 according to the present embodiment includes: an array body 2, a first restraining member 4, and a second restraining member 6. The array body 2 has a structure in which a plurality of power storage devices 12 are arranged. Each power storage device 12 has a first surface 12a and a second surface 12b opposite to the first surface 12a, is larger in the second direction B perpendicular to the first direction A than in the first direction A in which the first surface 12a and the second surface 12b are arranged, and is arranged in the third direction C perpendicular to the first direction A and the second direction B. The first restraining member 4 is opposite to the first surface 12a of each power storage device 12, extends in the third direction C, and restrains the array body 2 in the third direction C. The second restraining member 6 is opposite to the second surface 12b of each power storage device 12, extends in the third direction C, and restrains the array body 2 in the third direction C. Furthermore, the first restraint member 4 and the second restraint member 6 have a hole portion 50 formed of a recessed portion recessed in the first direction A or a through hole penetrating the restraint member in the first direction A.

[0058] When the array body 2 of the power storage device 12 which is larger in the second direction B than in the first direction A is clamped by a pair of restraining members, the area of ​​the cross section of each restraining member orthogonal to the third direction C can be increased compared to the case where the array body 2 is clamped from the second direction B. Thus, the strength of the restraining member can be improved for the force in the third direction C generated by the expansion of each power storage device 12. In addition, the end plate 16 of the present embodiment includes a plate whose dimension in the second direction B is longer than that in the first direction A in accordance with the shape of the power storage device 12. And, the end plate 16 is also clamped from the first direction A by the first restraining member 4 and the second restraining member 6. Thus, the distance from the center point of the end plate 16 to the end of the end plate 16 to which the restraining member is connected, as viewed from the third direction C, can be made shorter than the case where the end plate 16 is clamped from the second direction B by a pair of restraining members. Therefore, the end plate 16 is less likely to deform. Therefore, it is possible to cope with the increase in the amount of expansion accompanying the increase in the capacity of each power storage device 12.

[0059] However, since each restraint member is enlarged, the mass of the power storage module 1 increases. In contrast, by providing the first restraint member 4 and the second restraint member 6 with the hole portion 50, each restraint member can be made lighter, and the increase in the mass of the power storage module 1 can be suppressed. In addition, if at least one of the first restraint member 4 and the second restraint member 6 has the hole portion 50, the restraint member having the hole portion 50 can be made lighter, and thus the power storage module 1 can be made lighter.

[0060] In addition, the power storage device 12 of the present embodiment has a pair of output terminals 24 on the first surface 12a. In addition, in the array body 2, the power storage devices 12 are arranged so that the first surfaces 12a face the same direction. Furthermore, the power storage device 12 of the present embodiment has a valve portion 26 on the first surface 12a. In addition, the first restraining member 4 has a hole portion 50 consisting of a through hole. And, as viewed from the first direction A, the hole portion 50 overlaps with the output terminal 24 and the valve portion 26 of each power storage device 12. By overlapping the hole portion 50 with the output terminal 24, it is possible to avoid the first restraining member 4 from becoming an obstacle to the connection operation between the output terminal 24 and the bus bar. In addition, since at least a part of the connection structure of the output terminal 24 and the bus bar can be accommodated in the hole portion 50, the power storage module 1 can be miniaturized. In addition, by overlapping the hole portion 50 with the valve portion 26, it is possible to avoid the first restraining member 4 from becoming an obstacle to exhaust from the valve portion 26. In addition, the hole portion 50 may overlap only with the output terminal 24 or the valve portion 26.

[0061] In addition, the second restraining member 6 of the present embodiment has a hole portion 50 formed of a through hole. In addition, the power storage module 1 is provided with a heat conduction member 8 accommodated in the hole portion 50 and connected to the second surface 12b of each power storage device 12 in a heat exchangeable manner. The upper surface and the lower surface of the array body 2 are wider than the side surface. Therefore, in the case where the upper surface of the array body 2 is covered by the first restraining member 4 and the lower surface of the array body 2 is covered by the second restraining member 6, it is difficult to thermally connect each power storage device 12 to the restraining member equally due to the positional deviation of each power storage device 12. Therefore, it is difficult to equalize the degree of heat dissipation of each power storage device 12 to the restraining member. In this regard, by arranging the heat conduction member 8 in the through hole as the hole portion 50 provided in the second restraining member 6, each power storage device 12 is abutted against the heat conduction member 8 in a heat exchangeable manner, and the deviation of the cooling efficiency in the plurality of power storage devices 12 can be suppressed. In addition, by providing a through hole as the hole portion 50 in the first restraining member 4, the cooling efficiency of each power storage device 12 can be improved.

[0062] In addition, the power storage module 1 of the present embodiment includes: a cooling plate 10, on which the array body 2 is placed with the second restraining member 6 interposed therebetween, and which is in heat exchangeable contact with the heat conducting member 8. Thus, the cooling efficiency of each power storage device 12 can be further improved. In addition, each power storage device 12 can be thermally connected to the cooling plate 10 only with the heat conducting member 8 embedded in the hole 50 without the restraining member interposed therebetween. On the other hand, in the case of using a restraining member without the hole 50, in order to suppress the cooling deviation of each power storage device 12 and cool each power storage device 12 by the cooling plate 10, it is necessary to have a heat conducting member between the restraining member and the cooling plate 10. Therefore, between the array body 2 and the cooling plate 10, there is a stacked structure of the heat conducting member and the restraining member. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, compared with the case where the restraining member without the hole 50 exists between each power storage device 12 and the cooling plate 10, the number of interfaces between each member existing between each power storage device 12 and the cooling plate 10 can be reduced. From this point of view, the cooling efficiency of each power storage device 12 can also be improved. Furthermore, since the internal space of the hole portion 50 can be used as a storage space for the heat conduction member, the power storage module 1 can be reduced in size.

[0063] In addition, the array body 2 of the present embodiment has a spacer 14, which is arranged between two adjacent power storage devices 12 to insulate the two power storage devices 12. The spacer 14 has a convex portion 32 that fits into the hole portion 50. Thus, the relative displacement of the spacer 14 and at least one of the first restraint member 4 and the second restraint member 6 can be suppressed. Therefore, the displacement of each power storage device 12 can be restricted, and the vibration resistance of the power storage module 1 can be improved.

[0064] In addition, the hole portion 50 of the present embodiment extends in the third direction C and overlaps with a plurality of power storage devices 12. As a result, the number of the hole portions 50 can be reduced, and thus the production of the first restraining member 4 and the second restraining member 6 becomes easy. In addition, the convex portion 32 abuts against two inner side surfaces 50B that are opposed to each other in the second direction B among the inner side surfaces of the hole portion 50. As a result, the displacement of the spacer 14 in the second direction B and, in turn, the displacement of the power storage device 12 can be further limited. In addition, the displacement of each spacer 14 in the third direction C can be allowed. Therefore, in the case where each power storage device 12 repeatedly expands and contracts due to charging and discharging, etc., each spacer 14 can follow the expansion and contraction and shift in the third direction C. Therefore, the breakage and deformation of the spacer 14 can be suppressed.

[0065] In addition, at least one of the first restraining member 4 and the second restraining member 6 is composed of a sheet of plate material. Thus, the increase in the number of components of the power storage module 1 can be suppressed. In addition, the flatness of the main body can be improved. In addition, compared with being divided, it is easy to obtain higher rigidity when the restraining member is composed of a sheet of plate. In addition, the restraining member composed of a sheet of plate can also restrain the end plate 16 in a state where it is configured to overlap with the middle part of the end plate 16 in the second direction B. Through this structure, the deformation of the end plate 16 caused by the expansion of the power storage device 12 can be further suppressed. In addition, the power storage module 1 disclosed in the present invention can simultaneously include an isolator 14 having a convex portion 32 that fits into the hole portion 50 of the restraining member, and a heat conduction member 8 accommodated in the same hole portion 50. The heat conduction member 8 can be configured to fill the space divided by the hole portion 50 and the convex portion 32. Through this structure, the hole portion 50 can be used for the configuration space of the alignment structure of each power storage device 12 and the configuration space of the cooling structure, so that the power storage module 1 can be miniaturized.

[0066] (Implementation Method 2)

[0067] Embodiment 2 has the same structure as Embodiment 1 except the shapes of the first restraining member 4 and the second restraining member 6 and the shape of the spacer 14. Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described mainly with respect to the structure different from Embodiment 1, and the common structure will be simply described or omitted. Figure 5 It is a perspective view of the second restraint member 6 included in the power storage module 1 according to the second embodiment. Figure 6 It is a perspective view showing the state where the spacer 14 is fitted with the second restraint member 6. The first restraint member 4 has the same structure as the second restraint member 6, and therefore illustration and description thereof are omitted.

[0068] The second restraining member 6 has a second main body 44, a pair of second arm portions 46, a hole portion 50, and a plurality of cutout portions 52. The hole portion 50 extends in the third direction C and overlaps with a plurality of power storage devices 12. The second restraining member 6 of the present embodiment has three hole portions 50 arranged at a predetermined interval in the second direction B. Each hole portion 50 is composed of a through hole that penetrates the second main body 44 in the first direction A. In addition, the hole portion 50 may also be composed of a recessed portion that is recessed in the first direction A. In addition, the number of the hole portions 50 is not limited, and one or more is sufficient.

[0069] A plurality of cutout portions 52 are arranged to correspond one-to-one to each of the spacers 14. The cutout portions 52 of the second restraint member 6 of the present embodiment are arranged to correspond one-to-one to all of the spacers 14, but are not limited thereto, and the cutout portions 52 may be provided relative to at least a portion of the spacers 14. Each cutout portion 52 is provided on the surface facing the arrangement body 2 in the strip-shaped remaining portion 54 other than the hole portion 50 in the second main body portion 44. Each cutout portion 52 is composed of a recessed portion recessed from the surface in the first direction A. Each cutout portion 52 extends from one end side of the remaining portion 54 in the second direction B to the other end side. Therefore, each cutout portion 52 is connected to the hole portion 50.

[0070] Each cutout portion 52 is a groove that is long in the second direction B and has two inner side surfaces 52C that are opposed to each other in the third direction C. The width of each cutout portion 52 in the third direction C, that is, the interval between the two inner side surfaces 52C is equal to or less than the size of the power storage device 12 in the third direction C. For example, when viewed from the first direction A, each cutout portion 52 is arranged so as to overlap with the center of the main body portion 28 in the third direction C of each spacer 14. In addition, when viewed from the first direction A, for example, each cutout portion 52 is arranged so that the center of each cutout portion 52 in the third direction C overlaps with the center of the main body portion 28 in the third direction C.

[0071] Each of the isolators 14 has a convex portion 32 that fits into the hole portion 50. The convex portion 32 abuts against two inner side surfaces 50B of the inner side surfaces of the hole portion 50 that are opposite to each other in the second direction B. In addition, each of the isolators 14 has a fitting portion 56 that fits into the cutout portion 52. The fitting portion 56 abuts against two inner side surfaces 52C of the cutout portion 52 that are opposite to each other in the third direction C. The dimension of the fitting portion 56 in the third direction C is substantially equal to the distance between the two inner side surfaces 52C, and the fitting portion 56 inserted into the cutout portion 52 is sandwiched by the two inner side surfaces 52C in the third direction C. In addition, the surface of the fitting portion 56 that faces the first direction A abuts against the surface of the cutout portion 52 that faces the first direction A.

[0072] The fitting portion 56 is arranged with the convex portion 32 in the second direction B, and is composed of a concave portion that is lower in protrusion height than the convex portion 32, that is, is recessed toward the center of the main body 28 than the convex portion 32. The fitting portion 56 is inserted into the cutout portion 52 and sandwiched by the two inner side surfaces 52C, so that the displacement of each power storage device 12 in the third direction C can be restricted. In addition, the fitting portion 56 is in contact with the surface of the cutout portion 52 facing the first direction A, so that the displacement of each power storage device 12 in the first direction A can be restricted. In addition, at least one of the first restraint member 4 and the second restraint member 6 only needs to have the cutout portion 52.

[0073] The power storage module 1 according to the present embodiment may include Modifications 1 to 3 described below.

[0074] (Variant 1)

[0075] Figure 7 1 is a perspective view showing the second restraining member 6 and the spacer 14 of the power storage module 1 according to the modification 1. The dimension of the convex portion 32 in the third direction C of the modification is larger than that of the fitting portion 56. Therefore, the convex portion 32 protrudes in the third direction C than the fitting portion 56. Thus, in the state where the convex portion 32 is fitted in the hole portion 50, the contact area between the convex portion 32 and the inner side surface 50B can be increased. As a result, the rotation of each power storage device 12 around the axis extending in the first direction A can be suppressed.

[0076] In addition, the dimension of the third direction C of the fitting portion 56 of this modification is smaller than that of the fitting portion 56 of Embodiment 2. For example, the dimension of the third direction C of the fitting portion 56 is substantially equal to the thickness of the main body 28. Therefore, each cutout portion 52 is thinner than the cutout portion 52 of Embodiment 2. Thus, the strength of the second restraint member 6 can be improved.

[0077] (Variant 2)

[0078] Figure 8 It is a perspective view of the second restraint member 6 included in the power storage module 1 according to the second modification. Fig. 9 It is a stereoscopic diagram showing the second restraining member 6 and the isolating member 14 being engaged with each other. The cutout portion 52 of this modified example is provided on two inner side surfaces 50B of the hole portion 50 which are opposite to each other in the second direction B. The cutout portion 52 is composed of a recessed portion which is recessed from the inner side surface 50B in the second direction B. In addition, the cutout portion 52 penetrates the remaining portion 54 in the first direction A. The engaging portion 56 protrudes in the second direction B from the side surface of the convex portion 32 which faces the second direction B. The dimension of the engaging portion 56 in the third direction C is smaller than that of the side surface. In addition, the dimension of the engaging portion 56 in the third direction C may be the same as the dimension of the side surface in the third direction C.

[0079] When the convex portion 32 is embedded in the hole portion 50, the side surface of the convex portion 32 facing the second direction B abuts against the inner side surface 50B of the hole portion 50. In addition, when the convex portion 32 is embedded in the hole portion 50, the fitting portion 56 is embedded in the cutout portion 52. In this state, the fitting portion 56 is sandwiched by two inner side surfaces 52C of the cutout portion 52 that are opposite to each other in the third direction C. Furthermore, the side surface of the fitting portion 56 facing the second direction B abuts against the inner side surface 52B of the cutout portion 52 facing the second direction B. Therefore, according to this modification, the displacement of each power storage device 12 in the second direction B and the third direction C can be restricted by the fitting portion 56. In addition, according to this modification, the hole portion 50 and the cutout portion 52 can be formed simultaneously by punching the plate material constituting the second main body portion 44.

[0080] (Variant 3)

[0081] Fig.10 It is a perspective view of the second restraint member 6 included in the power storage module 1 according to the third modification. Fig.11 It is a stereoscopic diagram showing the second restraining member 6 and the spacer 14 being engaged with each other. The cutout portion 52 of this modified example is provided on the surface of the residual portion 54 facing the arrangement body 2. Each cutout portion 52 is composed of a recessed portion recessed from the surface in the first direction A. Each cutout portion 52 is rectangular in shape when viewed from the first direction A and is discontinuous with the hole portion 50. The engaging portion 56 is composed of a convex portion which is arranged with the convex portion 32 in the second direction B and protrudes downward. The engaging portion 56 is rectangular in shape when viewed from the first direction A. The protruding height of the engaging portion 56 is lower than the protruding height of the convex portion 32.

[0082] When the convex portion 32 is inserted into the hole portion 50, the side surface of the convex portion 32 facing the second direction B abuts against the inner side surface 50B of the hole portion 50. In addition, when the convex portion 32 is inserted into the hole portion 50, the fitting portion 56 is inserted into the cutout portion 52. In this state, the fitting portion 56 is sandwiched by two inner side surfaces 52C of the cutout portion 52 that are opposite to each other in the third direction C. In addition, the fitting portion 56 is sandwiched by two inner side surfaces 52B of the cutout portion 52 that are opposite to each other in the second direction B. Furthermore, the surface of the fitting portion 56 facing the first direction A abuts against the surface of the cutout portion 52 facing the first direction A. Therefore, according to this modification, the displacement of each power storage device 12 in the first direction A, the second direction B, and the third direction C can be restricted by the fitting portion 56.

[0083] The embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail above. The embodiments merely represent specific examples when the present disclosure is implemented. The contents of the embodiments do not limit the technical scope of the present disclosure, and multiple design changes such as changes, additions, and deletions of structural elements can be made without departing from the scope of the inventive concept specified in the claims. A new embodiment in which the design changes are implemented combines the effects of the combined embodiments and the deformations. In the embodiments, expressions such as "in this embodiment" and "in this embodiment" are attached to emphasize the content in which such design changes can be made, but design changes are allowed even without such expressions. In addition, any combination of the structural elements included in each embodiment is also valid as a mode of the present disclosure. The shadows attached to the cross-sections of the accompanying drawings do not limit the material of the object to which the shadows are assigned.

[0084] (Other Modifications)

[0085] At least one of the first restraining member 4 and the second restraining member 6 may have a plurality of holes 50 arranged to correspond to each power storage device 12 one-to-one. In other words, the restraining member may have a structure in which the holes 50 overlapping only one power storage device 12 in the first direction A are arranged in the third direction C. Thus, the strength of the restraining member can be improved compared to the case where the holes 50 extending in the third direction C are provided. The holes 50 are preferably arranged to correspond to all the power storage devices 12 one-to-one, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and the holes 50 may be provided for a part of the power storage devices 12.

[0086] -Explanation of symbols-

[0087] 1 power storage module, 2 array body, 4 first restraining member, 6 second restraining member, 8 heat conducting member, 10 cooling plate, 12 power storage device, 14 spacer, 24 output terminal, 26 valve portion, 32 convex portion, 50 hole portion, 52 notch portion, 56 fitting portion.

Claims

1. A power storage module comprising: An array body, wherein a plurality of power storage devices are arranged in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction, the power storage device having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface, and the power storage device is larger in the second direction perpendicular to the first direction than in the first direction in which the first surface and the second surface are arranged; a first restraining member, which faces the first surface of each power storage device, extends in the third direction, and restrains the array body in the third direction; a second restraining member, which faces the second surface of each power storage device, extends in the third direction, and restrains the array in the third direction; and a pair of end plates, arranged at both ends of the array body in the third direction, The first restraining member and the second restraining member have portions extending along the first direction, and the portions of the first restraining member and the second restraining member extending along the first direction overlap with the end plates in the third direction, and these portions extending along the first direction are respectively connected to the pair of end plates, thereby the first restraining member and the second restraining member sandwich the array body in the third direction via the pair of end plates, At least one of the first restraining member and the second restraining member has a hole portion, and the hole portion is constituted by a recessed portion recessed in the first direction or a through hole penetrating the restraining member in the first direction.

2. The power storage module according to claim 1, wherein: The power storage device has a pair of output terminals on the first surface. In the array body, the power storage devices are arranged so that the first surfaces thereof face the same direction.

3. The power storage module according to claim 2, wherein: The power storage device includes a valve portion on the first surface, The first restraining member has the hole portion formed by a through hole, The hole portion overlaps with the output terminal or the valve portion when viewed from the first direction.

4. The power storage module according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The second restraining member has the hole portion formed by a through hole, The power storage module includes a heat conduction member that is accommodated in the hole and is in heat exchangeable contact with the second surface.

5. The power storage module according to claim 4, wherein: The power storage module includes a cooling plate on which the array body is placed via the second restraining member and which is in heat exchangeable contact with the heat conducting member accommodated in the hole.

6. The power storage module according to claim 1, wherein: The array body includes a spacer disposed between two adjacent power storage devices to insulate the two power storage devices. The spacer has a convex portion that fits into the hole portion.

7. The power storage module according to claim 6, wherein: The hole portion extends in the third direction and overlaps with the plurality of power storage devices. The convex portion contacts two inner side surfaces of the hole portion that are opposed to each other in the second direction.

8. The power storage module according to claim 6 or 7, wherein: At least one of the first restraining member and the second restraining member has a plurality of cutouts, the plurality of cutouts being arranged to correspond one-to-one to the spacers and having two inner side surfaces facing each other in the third direction. The spacer has a fitting portion that abuts against the two inner side surfaces of the cutout portion.

9. The power storage module according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: At least one of the first restraint member and the second restraint member has a plurality of the hole portions arranged so as to correspond one-to-one to the respective power storage devices.

10. The power storage module according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: At least one of the first restraining member and the second restraining member is formed of a single plate material.

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