Battery pack reconstruction method, battery pack manufacturing method, battery pack, manufacturing assistance device, and manufacturing assistance method

Abstract

The present application relates to a battery pack reconstruction method, a battery pack manufacturing method, a battery pack, a manufacturing assistance device, and a manufacturing assistance method. The battery pack reconstruction method is a reconstruction method of a battery pack configured to include a plurality of battery cells, the battery cell being of a laminate type and having a sealed portion. The reconstruction method includes: an acquisition process of acquiring a predetermined index value indicating a state of the sealed portion; and a configuration decision process of deciding a configuration of the battery cell in reconstruction of the battery pack, based on the state of the sealed portion indicated by the acquired predetermined index value.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a method for reconfiguring a battery pack, a method for manufacturing a battery pack, a battery pack, a manufacturing aid device, and a manufacturing aid method. In particular, it relates to a method for reconfiguring a battery pack, a method for manufacturing a battery pack, a battery pack, a manufacturing aid device, and a manufacturing aid method configured as a battery pack comprising a plurality of individual cells, wherein the plurality of individual cells are laminated and have a sealing portion. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, there were methods for reusing secondary batteries as follows: during the reconstruction of a battery pack, the battery characteristics of the secondary batteries constituting the battery pack are obtained, the secondary batteries are classified using the allowable range of deviations that vary according to the obtained battery characteristics, and the battery pack is regenerated based on the classified secondary batteries (for example, see Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-171032). Summary of the Invention

[0003] When a battery pack is installed in a vehicle, the temperature varies depending on the location within the battery pack. Furthermore, the lifespan of a battery is related not only to the characteristics of the secondary cells (e.g., individual cells) that make up the battery pack.

[0004] This disclosure was made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a battery pack reconfiguration method, a battery pack manufacturing method, a battery pack, a manufacturing auxiliary device, and a manufacturing auxiliary method that can extend the life of the reconfigured battery pack.

[0005] The battery pack reconfiguration method disclosed herein is a method for reconfiguring a battery pack comprising multiple individual cells, wherein the individual cells are laminated and have a sealing portion. The reconfiguration method includes: an acquisition step, in which a predetermined index value representing the state of the sealing portion is acquired; and a configuration determination step, in which the configuration of the individual cells in the reconfiguration of the battery pack is determined based on the state of the sealing portion represented by the acquired predetermined index value.

[0006] Based on this configuration, the configuration of individual cells in the battery pack reconfiguration is determined according to the state of the sealing portion, which is indicated by a predetermined index value representing the state of the sealing portion of a single cell. During battery pack use, the impact on the sealing portion of each individual cell varies depending on the configuration of the individual cells. Furthermore, the lifespan of each individual cell differs depending on the state of its sealing portion. Therefore, it is possible to reconfigure individual cells into a battery pack in a way that extends the lifespan of each individual cell. As a result, a battery pack reconfiguration method that extends the lifespan of the reconfigured battery pack can be provided.

[0007] Alternatively, the acquisition process may involve obtaining predetermined index values ​​by measuring the sealing values ​​of individual cells separated from the recycled battery pack. This process may also include a step of determining that a single cell with the predetermined index value will not be used in the refactoring of the battery pack if the obtained predetermined index value does not meet a specified value. With this configuration, in the refactoring of the battery pack, it is possible to avoid using single cells whose predetermined index values ​​for the sealing portions do not meet the specified values, thus affecting the lifespan of the refactored battery pack. As a result, the lifespan of the refactored battery pack can be extended.

[0008] Alternatively, in the configuration decision-making process, the more the predetermined index value indicates a good seal condition, the more likely it is to be configured in areas where the temperature rises during battery pack operation. Areas where the temperature rises during battery pack operation have a greater impact on the seal. Based on this configuration, single cells with good seal conditions can be configured in areas where the temperature has a significant impact on the seal. As a result, the lifespan of the reconfigured battery pack can be extended.

[0009] Alternatively, in the configuration decision process, if a predetermined index value indicates a good seal condition, it is decided to configure the battery in a location where the operating temperature of the battery pack is above a predetermined degree. Conversely, if the predetermined index value is below the predetermined value, it is decided to configure the battery in a location where the operating temperature of the battery pack will not exceed the predetermined degree. With this configuration, a single cell with a good seal condition can be configured in a location that has a greater impact on the seal, while a single cell with a poor seal condition can be configured in a location that has a lesser impact on the seal. As a result, the lifespan of the reconfigured battery pack can be extended.

[0010] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a method for manufacturing a battery pack is a method for manufacturing a battery pack comprising a plurality of individual cells, wherein the individual cells are laminated and have sealing portions. The manufacturing method includes the steps of: obtaining a predetermined index value representing the state of the sealing portions of the individual cells separated from a recycled battery pack; determining, based on the state of the sealing portions represented by the obtained predetermined index value, the location of the individual cells to be disposed in the reconfiguration of the battery pack; and reconfiguring the battery pack by disposing the individual cells at the determined locations.

[0011] Based on this configuration, a method for manufacturing a battery pack that can extend the lifespan of the reconfigured battery pack can be provided.

[0012] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a battery pack is manufactured using the above-described manufacturing method. Based on this configuration, a battery pack capable of extending the lifespan of the reconfigured battery pack can be provided.

[0013] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the battery pack manufacturing aid is configured to include a plurality of individual cells, each cell being laminated and having a sealing portion. The manufacturing aid includes a processing unit and a storage unit. The processing unit stores predetermined index values ​​representing the state of the acquired sealing portion in the storage unit, and determines the configuration of the individual cells during battery pack reconfiguration based on the state of the sealing portion represented by the predetermined index values ​​stored in the storage unit.

[0014] Based on this configuration, a manufacturing aid for a battery pack can be provided that can extend the lifespan of the reconfigured battery pack.

[0015] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a manufacturing aid method for a battery pack is a method for manufacturing a battery pack comprising a plurality of individual cells, wherein the individual cells are laminated and have sealing portions. The manufacturing aid method is performed by a manufacturing aid apparatus having a processing unit and a storage unit. The manufacturing aid method includes the following steps: the processing unit stores a predetermined index value representing the state of the acquired sealing portion in the storage unit; and the processing unit determines the configuration of the individual cells in the reconfiguration of the battery pack based on the state of the sealing portion represented by the predetermined index value stored in the storage unit.

[0016] Based on this configuration, a manufacturing aid method for a battery pack that can extend the lifespan of the reconfigured battery pack can be provided.

[0017] According to this disclosure, a battery pack reconfiguration method, a battery pack manufacturing method, a battery pack, a manufacturing auxiliary device, and a manufacturing auxiliary method are provided that can extend the life of the reconfigured battery pack. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The features, advantages, and technical and industrial significance of exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals show the same elements, and wherein:

[0019] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating the logistics process from battery pack recycling to manufacturing and sales.

[0020] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow in the battery logistics model.

[0021] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating a structural example of a battery management system applied to the battery logistics model of this embodiment.

[0022] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the vehicle, management server, and manufacturer's terminal in this implementation method.

[0023] Figure 5This is a diagram illustrating an example of the temperature distribution of a battery pack mounted in a vehicle according to the first embodiment.

[0024] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the process of auxiliary battery manufacturing in the first embodiment.

[0025] Figure 7A This is a top view of the battery cell used to illustrate the inspection of the sealing width of the battery cell in this embodiment.

[0026] Figure 7B This is a partial cross-sectional view of a battery cell used to illustrate the inspection of the sealing width of the battery cell in this embodiment.

[0027] Figure 8A This is a top view of another battery cell used to illustrate the inspection of the sealing width of the battery cell in this embodiment.

[0028] Figure 8B This is a partial cross-sectional view of another battery cell used to illustrate the inspection of the sealing width of the battery cell in this embodiment.

[0029] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the temperature distribution of a battery pack mounted in a vehicle in the second embodiment.

[0030] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the battery manufacturing auxiliary process in the second embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0031] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, the same reference numerals will be used to denote the same components. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed descriptions of them will not be repeated.

[0032] In this disclosure, a battery pack (also referred to as a "battery stack") comprises multiple battery stacks (also referred to as modules or blocks). These battery stacks can be connected in series or in parallel. Each battery stack comprises multiple individual battery cells (single cells) connected in series or in parallel.

[0033] Generally, battery pack "reuse" can be broadly categorized into reuse, rebuilding, and recycling. In reuse, the recovered battery pack undergoes necessary factory checks and is shipped directly as reused products. In rebuilding, the recovered battery pack is temporarily broken down into battery stacks or individual cells. Then, the reusable battery stacks or cells from the broken-down stacks or cells are combined to create new battery packs (reconstruction). The newly manufactured battery packs undergo factory checks and are shipped as rebuilt products. In contrast, in recycling (resource recycling), since recyclable materials are extracted from each battery cell, the recovered battery pack is not used for other battery packs.

[0034] [First Implementation]

[0035] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating the logistics process from battery pack recycling to manufacturing and sales. The following will... Figure 1 The logistics method shown is called the "battery logistics model". Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow in the battery logistics model.

[0036] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the battery logistics model, battery packs 900A to 900C are recycled from multiple vehicles 90A to 90D. In this embodiment, used battery cells are removed from the recycled battery packs 900A to 900C, and reusable battery cells are reused to manufacture (reconstruct) and sell battery pack 900. Then, it is replaced with the battery pack 900 installed in a user's vehicle 90.

[0037] Recycling company 10 collected used battery packs 900A to 900C from vehicles 90A to 90C. Vehicles 90A to 90C are equipped with battery packs 900A to 900C respectively. It should be noted that... Figure 1 In the diagram, only 3 vehicles are shown due to paper limitations, but in reality, battery packs 900 are recycled from more vehicles. The recycling operator 10 disassembles the recycled battery packs 900A to 900C and removes multiple battery cells from the battery packs 900A to 900C (step S101).

[0038] In this battery logistics model, each battery cell is assigned identification information (hereinafter referred to as "ID") to determine its identity. The information for each battery cell is managed by the management server 80 using the ID. Therefore, the recycling operator 10 uses terminal 70A (refer to...) Figure 3 The IDs of each individual battery cell taken from battery packs 900A to 900C are sent to the management server 80.

[0039] Inspection operator 20 performs performance checks on each battery cell recovered by recycling operator 10 (step S102). Specifically, inspection operator 20 checks the electrical characteristics of the recovered battery cells. For example, inspection operator 20 can check the full charge capacity, resistance value, OCV (Open Circuit Voltage), SOC (State of Charge), etc. In addition to the above electrical characteristics, inspection operator 20 also checks the remaining amount of electrolyte contained in each battery cell.

[0040] Then, based on these inspection results, inspector 20 classifies the battery cells into reusable and non-reusable cells. The reusable cells are handed over to manufacturer 30, and the non-reusable cells (those intended for resource recycling) are handed over to recycling operator 50. It should be noted that the terminal 70B used by inspector 20 (see...) Figure 3 Send the inspection results of each battery cell to the management server 80.

[0041] Manufacturer 30 manufactures a new battery pack 900 by reconfiguring the battery cells received from inspector 20 (step S103). In this embodiment, information (assembly information) for manufacturing the battery pack 900 is generated in management server 80 and sent to manufacturer 30's terminal 70C (see reference). Figure 3 Manufacturer 30 combines battery cells according to the assembly information to manufacture (rebuild) battery pack 900 for vehicle 90.

[0042] The sales store 40 sells the battery pack 900 manufactured by the manufacturer 30 as a vehicle battery pack or as a stationary battery pack that can be used in a residence, etc. (step S104). In this embodiment, the vehicle 90 is brought into the sales store 40, where the battery pack 900 of the vehicle 90 is replaced with a recycled or remanufactured product manufactured by the manufacturer 30.

[0043] Recycling operators 50 will dismantle battery cells (or battery stacks) that inspectors 20 deem unusable and recycle them as raw materials for new battery cells and other products.

[0044] It should be noted that, in Figure 1In this model, recycling operators 10, inspection operators 20, manufacturing operators 30, and sales outlets 40 are identified as distinct operators, but the classification of operators is not limited to this. For example, inspection operators 20 and manufacturing operators 30 could be the same operator. Alternatively, recycling operators 10 could be divided into operators that recycle battery packs 900 and operators that dismantle the recycled battery packs 900. Furthermore, the locations of each operator and sales outlet are not specifically limited. The locations of each operator and sales outlet can be different, and multiple operators or sales outlets can be located at the same location.

[0045] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating a structural example of the battery management system 1 applied to the battery logistics model of this embodiment. (Refer to...) Figure 3 The battery management system 1 includes terminals 70A to 70D, a management server 80, a communication network 81, and a base station 82.

[0046] Terminal 70A is the terminal for recycling business 10. Terminal 70B is the terminal for inspection business 20. Terminal 70C is the terminal for manufacturing business 30. Terminal 70D is the terminal for sales outlet 40.

[0047] The management server 80 and each terminal 70A-70D are configured to communicate with each other via a communication network 81, such as the Internet. The base station 82 of the communication network 81 is configured to transmit and receive information with the vehicle 90 via wireless communication.

[0048] A battery inspection system 2 is installed at the inspection operator 20. The battery inspection system 2 measures characteristics used to evaluate the degree of degradation of each battery cell. Furthermore, based on the evaluation results of the degree of degradation of the battery cell, the battery inspection system 2 determines the reuse method (rebuilding or recycling) of the battery cell. The reuse method of the battery cell determined by the battery inspection system 2 is sent to the management server 80, for example, via terminal 70B.

[0049] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the vehicle 90, management server 80, and manufacturer's terminal 70C in this embodiment. (Refer to...) Figure 4 The vehicle 90 includes a battery pack 900, a temperature sensor 112, a power control unit (hereinafter referred to as "PCU" or "Power Control Unit") 120, an electric generator (hereinafter referred to as "MG" or "Motor Generator") 130, drive wheels 140, an electronic control unit (hereinafter referred to as "ECU" or "Electronic Control Unit") 150, a storage unit 160, and a communication device 170.

[0050] The battery pack 900 consists of multiple battery cells, for example, multiple lithium-ion secondary battery cells connected in series and / or parallel. The battery pack 900 supplies power to the PCU120 for driving the drive wheel 140 via the MG130.

[0051] Temperature sensor 112 detects the temperature Ti of the individual battery cells within the battery pack 900 and outputs the detected value to ECU 150. Temperature sensor 112 detects at least the temperature of battery cells (or modules) located near the outer periphery of the battery pack and the temperature of battery cells (or modules) located in the center of the battery pack.

[0052] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the temperature distribution of the battery pack 900 mounted on the vehicle 90 in the first embodiment. (Refer to...) Figure 5 A typical battery pack 900 for automotive use includes dozens to hundreds of battery cells, and there is no particular limit to the number of battery cells contained in the battery pack 900.

[0053] The battery pack 900 is equipped with a cooling mechanism (not shown) for cooling individual battery cells 100A to 100Z. The cooling mechanism is a water-cooling mechanism that uses a liquid refrigerant (e.g., water). Water supplied from the water-cooling mechanism to the battery cells 100A to 100Z flows in the arrangement direction of the battery cells 100A to 100Z as indicated by arrows AR1 and AR2. This cools each battery cell 100A to 100Z. It should be noted that the cooling method of the cooling mechanism is not particularly limited; an air-cooling mechanism utilizing air cooling can also be used.

[0054] In this structure, the cooling effect is greater for battery cells located upstream of the liquid supplied by the water cooling mechanism (indicated by arrow AR1) than for battery cells located downstream (indicated by arrow AR2). Therefore, battery cells located upstream (e.g., battery cell 100A) tend to become colder compared to battery cells located downstream (e.g., battery cell 100Z).

[0055] In this embodiment, battery cells 100A to 100Z are divided into two parts. Furthermore, battery cells 100A to 100M located on the upstream side are designated as the "low-temperature section," and battery cells 100N to 100Z located on the downstream side are designated as the "high-temperature section." The high-temperature section refers to the part where the temperature is above a predetermined temperature during the use of the battery pack 900, while the low-temperature section refers to the part where the temperature is below the predetermined temperature during the use of the battery pack 900. Generally speaking, the higher the temperature of the secondary battery, the faster the degradation progresses. Therefore, it can be said that degradation progresses more easily in the high-temperature section than in the low-temperature section.

[0056] Refer again Figure 4MG130 is a rotary motor, such as a three-phase AC generator. MG130 is driven by PCU120, causing drive wheel 140 to rotate. Additionally, MG130 can also generate electricity regeneratively during vehicle 90 braking. The electricity generated by MG130 is rectified by PCU120 and charged into battery pack 900.

[0057] PCU120 is configured to include an inverter and a converter (neither shown), and drives MG130 according to drive signals from ECU150. When MG130 is in power operation, PCU120 converts the power stored in battery pack 900 into AC power and supplies it to MG130. When MG130 is in regenerative operation (such as when vehicle 90 is braking), PCU120 rectifies the power generated by MG130 and supplies it to battery pack 900.

[0058] The ECU 150 is configured to include a CPU (Central Processing Unit), memory (ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory)), and input / output ports (not shown) for inputting and outputting various signals. The ECU 150 controls the charging and discharging of the PCU 120 and the battery pack 900 to bring the vehicle 90 to a desired state. Additionally, the ECU 150 acquires the detected temperature Ti from the temperature sensor 112, generates temperature information for the battery pack 900, and outputs it to the storage unit 160.

[0059] Reconstruction information for manufacturing the reconstructed product is generated in the management server 80. Therefore, the ECU 150 generates temperature information of the battery pack 900 and stores it in the storage unit 160. The temperature information is periodically read from the storage unit 160 and sent to the management server 80 using the communication device 170.

[0060] The management server 80 includes an information processing device 210, a communication device 220, a reusable product database (hereinafter referred to as "DB") 230, and a battery information DB 240.

[0061] The DB230 reusable storage unit contains used battery packs 900A to 900C collected by recycling companies 10 (see reference). Figure 1 The inspection operator 20 also collects information on battery cells 100 that are designed for reuse. This information is collected, for example, by the inspection operator 20 performing performance evaluations (deterioration assessments) on each battery cell 100, including the deterioration status of each battery cell 100 and indicators representing the difficulty of deterioration of each battery cell 100 (deterioration rate, battery cell capacity, battery cell resistance, negative electrode thickness, weight per unit area, etc.).

[0062] The battery information DB240 stores temperature information of the battery pack 900, which is periodically received from the vehicle 90, in association with the ID used to identify the vehicle 90.

[0063] The information processing device 210 is configured to include a CPU, a memory, and an input / output buffer (none shown). When the information processing device 210 receives information from the terminal 70D of the sales store 40 via the communication device 220 regarding a vehicle 90 for which the battery pack 900 needs to be replaced, it uses data about the vehicle 90 stored in the battery information DB240 and data about reusable battery cells 100 stored in the reusable materials DB230 to generate reconstruction information for rebuilding the battery pack 900. Details of the specific processing used to generate this reconstruction information will be described later. Furthermore, the information processing device 210 transmits the generated reconstruction information to the terminal 70C of the manufacturer 30 via the communication device 220.

[0064] The manufacturer's terminal 70C includes a communication device 71, a control unit 72, and a display unit 73. The communication device 71 obtains reconstruction information generated by the management server 80. Based on the obtained reconstruction information, the control unit 72 selects replacement battery cells from those inspected by the inspection operator 20 and displays the information of the selected replacement battery cells on the display unit 73. Based on the information of the replacement battery cells displayed on the display unit 73, the manufacturer 30 manufactures a reconstructed battery pack 900 for the vehicle 90. The structures of terminals 70A, 70B, and 70D are the same as those of terminal 70C.

[0065] Conventional methods for reusing battery cells 100 include: during the reconfiguration of a battery pack 900, acquiring the battery characteristics of the battery cells 100 constituting the battery pack 900, classifying the battery cells 100 using a tolerance range of deviations based on the acquired battery characteristics, and regenerating the battery pack 900 according to the classified battery cells 100. When the battery pack 900 is installed in a vehicle 90, the temperature varies depending on the portion of the battery pack 900. Furthermore, the lifespan of the battery pack 900 is related not only to the battery characteristics of the battery cells 100 constituting the battery pack 900.

[0066] Therefore, the battery pack 900 reconfiguration method is a method for reconfiguring a battery pack 900 comprising a plurality of laminated battery cells 100 having a sealing portion, comprising: an acquisition step, in which a predetermined index value representing the state of the sealing portion is acquired; and a configuration determination step, in which the configuration of the battery cells 100 in the reconfiguration of the battery pack 900 is determined based on the state of the sealing portion represented by the acquired predetermined index value.

[0067] Therefore, the configuration of the battery cells 100 in the reconfiguration of the battery pack 900 is determined based on the state of the sealing portion, as indicated by a predetermined index value representing the state of the sealing portion of the battery cell 100. During use of the battery pack 900, the impact on the sealing portion of the battery cells 100 varies depending on the configuration of the battery cells 100. Furthermore, the lifespan of the battery cells 100 varies depending on the state of the sealing portion of the battery cells 100. Therefore, it is possible to reconfigure the battery cells 100 into the battery pack 900 in a way that extends the lifespan of the battery cells 100. As a result, the lifespan of the reconfigured battery pack 900 can be extended.

[0068] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the battery manufacturing auxiliary processing in the first embodiment. (See reference...) Figure 6 The battery manufacturing auxiliary process is performed by the information processing unit 210 of the management server 80.

[0069] First, the information processing device 210 determines whether it has accepted the input of the ID of the battery cell 100 and the sealing width of the battery cell 100 from the terminal 70B of the inspection operator 20 (step S111).

[0070] Here, we will explain the inspection process for the sealing width of the 20 pairs of products inspected by the inspection company. Figure 7A , Figure 7B as well as Figure 8A , Figure 8B These are diagrams illustrating the inspection of the sealing width of the battery cell 100 in this embodiment. Figure 7A and Figure 8A This is a top view of battery cell 100. Figure 7B and Figure 8B This is a partial cross-sectional view of battery cell 100.

[0071] In this embodiment, the battery cell 100 is a laminated lithium-ion secondary battery. As long as it is laminated, the battery cell 100 can also be other types of secondary batteries (e.g., lithium-ion polymer secondary batteries, all-solid-state batteries).

[0072] Reference Figure 7A , Figure 7B as well as Figure 8A , Figure 8B The battery cell 100 includes an electrode body 101, a first-side laminate 102, a second-side laminate 103, a positive electrode lead plate 104, and a negative electrode lead plate 105.

[0073] The electrode body 101 has multiple positive electrodes, multiple negative electrodes, and multiple separators. The positive and negative electrodes are stacked alternately. The positive electrode has a positive electrode active material that absorbs lithium (Li) ions. The negative electrode has a negative electrode active material that absorbs lithium ions. Separators are disposed between the positive and negative electrodes. The separators are formed of an insulating material that allows lithium ions to pass through.

[0074] The first-side laminate 102 and the second-side laminate 103 house the electrode body 101. It should be noted that, although not shown in the diagram, an electrolyte is also sealed inside the electrode body 101, sandwiched between the first-side laminate 102 and the second-side laminate 103. The first-side laminate 102 and the second-side laminate 103 are along... Figure 7A and Figure 8A The outer periphery in the top view has a sealing portion (the shaded portion of the outer periphery of the first-side laminate 102 and the second-side laminate 103). (Refer to...) Figure 7B AA section view and Figure 8B (BB cross-sectional view). The outer periphery of the first-side laminate 102 and the second-side laminate 103 is, for example, rectangular in shape in the top view.

[0075] The first-side laminate 102 and the second-side laminate 103 have a metallic (e.g., aluminum (Al)) film substrate and resin layers formed on both sides of the film substrate. The sealing portion is formed by melting these resin layers through heating while the two resin layers of the first-side laminate 102 and the second-side laminate 103 are in contact. Figure 7A , 7B As shown, in the case of a newly manufactured product, the sealing portion has a uniform predetermined width on both the long and short sides from the outer periphery of the first side laminate 102 and the second side laminate 103.

[0076] During continuous charging and discharging of the battery cell 100, gas is generated from the electrolyte, sometimes causing an increase in pressure in the space containing the electrolyte between the first-side laminate 102 and the second-side laminate 103. Under this pressure, a force is applied in the direction of peeling off the seal. Therefore, when the battery cell 100 is new, if... Figure 7A , 7B As shown, the width of the sealing part is uniform, but when the battery cell 100 is used continuously, sometimes as shown... Figure 8A , Figure 8B The width of a portion of the seal shown has become smaller than when it was new. When the width of this seal (also known as the "seal width") is 0, the battery cell 100 may be opened.

[0077] Therefore, the sealing width was measured at 20 locations inspected by the supplier. Specifically, using length measuring instruments such as vernier calipers or rulers, the sealing width of a certain portion of the sealing area was measured. Figure 8A As shown, the sealing width at the midpoint of the long side of the battery cell 100 is often the smallest around the entire circumference; therefore, the sealing width at the midpoint of any long side of the battery cell 100 should be measured at least. However, there are also cases where the sealing width is smallest around the entire circumference in areas where the seal is weaker; therefore, it is desirable to measure the sealing width of several other areas as well. Furthermore, since areas with smaller sealing widths can be visually identified, it is desirable to also measure the sealing width of those areas.

[0078] Inspectors at inspector 20 measure the sealing width of battery cell 100 in this manner, and input the measured sealing width and the ID of battery cell 100 into terminal 70B. The input sealing width and the ID of battery cell 100 are stored in a corresponding relationship in the storage device of terminal 70B. Terminal 70B sends the combination of sealing width and the ID of battery cell 100 to management server 80 at a predetermined time.

[0079] Back Figure 6 When the information processing device 210 receives a combination of the sealing width and the ID of the battery cell 100 from the terminal 70B, it determines that it has accepted these inputs ("yes" in step S111) and establishes a correspondence between the received sealing width and the ID of the battery cell 100 and stores it in the reusable product DB230 (step S112).

[0080] After step S112, the information processing device 210 determines whether the sealing width exceeds a predetermined value (step S113). This predetermined value is used to determine that the battery cell 100 is unsuitable for reuse when it is below the predetermined value. When it is determined that the sealing width does not exceed the predetermined value ("No" in step S113), the information processing device 210 also stores the meaning of unreusability in the reusable product DB230 by establishing a correspondence between the battery cell 100 and its ID (step S114).

[0081] If it is determined that no input of battery cell ID and sealing width has been received ("No" in step S111), if it is determined that the sealing width exceeds the specified value ("Yes" in step S113), or after step S114, the information processing device 210 determines whether it is the time to generate a manufacturing instruction to instruct the manufacturer 30 to manufacture the battery pack 900 (step S121).

[0082] If it is determined that the manufacturing instruction is generated ("Yes" in step S121), the information processing device 210 determines the upper limit of the normal temperature of the part of the battery pack 900 to which the battery cell 100 to be used is intended (step S122). The normal temperature of each part of the battery pack 900 is the temperature during driving and charging, etc., detected by the temperature sensor 112 of the vehicle 90, and stored in the battery information DB240 of the management server 80. The normal temperature does not include the temperature during abnormal conditions. In step S122, the upper limit of the temperature of the part of the battery cell 100 to be used, stored in the temperature of the battery information DB, is determined.

[0083] The information processing device 210 determines whether the part of the cell to be used is a high-temperature part whose upper limit of temperature is above a predetermined temperature (step S123). As described above. Figure 5 As shown, the high-temperature region tends to be located downstream of the water-cooling mechanism. When it is determined that the region where the battery cell is to be used is a high-temperature region ("Yes" in step S123), the information processing device 210 determines the battery cell 100 with a large sealing width (e.g., a predetermined limit width or more) among the battery cells 100 stored in the reusable product DB230 as the battery cell 100 to be disposed in that region (step S124).

[0084] On the other hand, if it is determined that the location where the battery cell is to be used is not a high-temperature location ("No" in step S123), the information processing device 210 determines that the battery cell 100 with a small sealing width (e.g., less than the predetermined limit width) among the battery cells 100 stored in the reusable product DB230 is the battery cell 100 disposed at that location (step S125).

[0085] After step S124 or step S125, the information processing device 210 determines whether the battery cells 100 to be used have been determined for all parts of the battery pack 900 (step S126). If it is determined that the battery cells 100 to be used have not been determined for all parts ("No" in step S126), the information processing device 210 returns to step S122 of the process to be performed.

[0086] On the other hand, if it is determined that the battery cell 100 to be used has been determined for all parts ("Yes" in step S126), the information processing device 210 outputs a manufacturing instruction to the terminal 70C of the manufacturer 30, indicating the combination of the ID of the battery cell 100 to be used and the part of the battery pack 900 in which the battery cell 100 is configured (step S127).

[0087] When manufacturer 30 receives a manufacturing instruction from the information processing device 210 of management server 80, such as Figure 2 As shown in step S103, the battery pack 900 is manufactured by configuring the battery cell 100 to the designated location according to the manufacturing instructions.

[0088] [Second Implementation]

[0089] In the aforementioned first embodiment, such as Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the battery pack 900 is divided into a high-temperature section and a low-temperature section. The battery cell 100 with a larger sealing width is placed in the high-temperature section, and the battery cell 100 with a smaller sealing width is placed in the low-temperature section.

[0090] In the second embodiment, the temperature range of the battery pack 900 is divided into multiple ranges of two or more stages, and the battery cells 100 are configured according to the sealing width.

[0091] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the temperature distribution of the battery pack 900 mounted on the vehicle 90 in the second embodiment. In the first embodiment, as... Figure 5 As shown, the temperature range of battery pack 900 is divided into a high-temperature section and a low-temperature section. (Refer to...) Figure 9 In the second embodiment, the temperature range of the battery pack 900 is divided into the portion where the upper limit of the normal temperature is temperature T1 to T2, the portion where temperature T2 to T3, ..., the portion where temperature Tk to Tk+1, ..., the portion where temperature Tn-2 to Tn-1, and the portion where temperature Tn-1 to Tn (T1 <T2<…<Tk<Tk+1<…<Tn-2<Tn-1<Tn)。

[0092] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the battery manufacturing auxiliary processing in the second embodiment. (See also...) Figure 10 The battery manufacturing auxiliary process is performed by the information processing unit 210 of the management server 80. Figure 10 The battery manufacturing auxiliary processes other than step S124A and Figure 6 The auxiliary processes for battery manufacturing shown are common, so they will not be described again.

[0093] In the foregoing Figure 6 Following step S122, the information processing device 210 identifies the battery cell 100 in the reusable product DB230 with a sealing width corresponding to the upper limit of the temperature range of the normal temperature of the location determined in step S122 as the battery cell 100 of that location (step S124A), and proceeds to the aforementioned processing. Figure 6Step S126 is shown.

[0094] [Other variations]

[0095] (1) In the aforementioned embodiments, such as Figures 6 to 8B as well as Figure 10 As shown, the index representing the state of the sealing part is set to the sealing width of the sealing part with the smallest sealing width throughout the entire circumference during measurement. However, it is not limited to this. The index value representing the state of the sealing part can be any index value representing the adhesion state of the sealing part during measurement. It can be the ratio of the smallest sealing width throughout the entire circumference during measurement to the sealing width of a brand new product immediately after manufacturing, or it can be the average of the sealing widths of a predetermined number of parts throughout the entire circumference during measurement, or it can be the ratio of the average value during measurement to the sealing width of a brand new product immediately after manufacturing, or it can be the adhesive area of ​​the sealing part during measurement, or it can be the ratio of the adhesive area during measurement to the adhesive area of ​​the sealing part immediately after manufacturing, or it can be the number of parts with sealing widths less than a predetermined threshold among the predetermined number of parts throughout the entire circumference during measurement.

[0096] (2) In the aforementioned embodiment, the temperature of each part of the battery pack 900 is detected by the temperature sensor 112 of the vehicle 90 and periodically sent to the management server 80. Thus, the temperature is determined as follows: Figure 5 and Figure 9 The temperature ranges of various parts of the battery pack 900 are shown. However, this is not a limitation; the temperature ranges of various parts of the battery pack 900 can also be determined in advance through experiments or simulations.

[0097] (3) In the foregoing embodiments, the inspection of the individual battery cells 100 of the battery pack 900 and the reconfiguration from the individual battery cells 100 to the battery pack 900 are performed by an operator. However, this is not a limitation, the inspection of the individual battery cells 100 of the battery pack 900 and the reconfiguration from the individual battery cells 100 to the battery pack 900 can also be performed automatically by inspection equipment, manufacturing machinery, robots, or other machinery.

[0098] (4) In the foregoing embodiments, such as Figure 6 Steps S122 to S125 and Figure 10 As shown in steps S122 and S124A, the battery pack 900 is configured by arranging battery cells 100 with sealing widths corresponding to the temperature of each part of the battery pack 900. However, it is not limited to this, and it may also be configured such that, regardless of the temperature of each part of the battery pack 900, the battery cells 100 are arranged in order from the upstream side where the cooling effect of the cooling mechanism of the battery cell 100 is higher to the downstream side where the cooling effect is lower, in order from the battery cells 100 with smaller sealing widths to the battery cells 100 with larger sealing widths.

[0099] (5) The aforementioned embodiments can be understood as a method for reconstructing a battery pack 900, a method for manufacturing a battery pack 900, a battery pack 900, a manufacturing aid for a battery pack 900, and a manufacturing aid for a battery pack 900.

[0100] [Summarize]

[0101] (1) As Figures 1-10 As shown, the battery pack 900 reconfiguration method is a method for reconfiguring a battery pack 900 comprising a plurality of laminated battery cells 100 having a sealing portion. For example... Figure 6 and Figure 10 As shown, the reconstruction method includes an acquisition step of obtaining a predetermined index value representing the state of the sealing part (e.g., Figure 6 , Figure 10 Step S112) and the configuration determination process (e.g., determining the configuration of the battery cells 100 in the reconfiguration of the battery pack 900 based on the state of the seal as indicated by the acquired predetermined index value) Figure 6 , Figure 10 Steps S122 to S126).

[0102] Therefore, the configuration of the battery cells 100 in the reconfiguration of the battery pack 900 is determined based on the state of the sealing portion, which is indicated by a predetermined index value representing the state of the sealing portion of the battery cell 100. During use of the battery pack 900, the impact on the sealing portion of the battery cells 100 varies depending on the configuration of the battery cells 100. Furthermore, the lifespan of the battery cells 100 varies depending on the state of the sealing portion of the battery cells 100. Therefore, it is possible to reconfigure the battery cells 100 into the battery pack 900 in a way that extends the lifespan of the battery cells 100. As a result, the lifespan of the reconfigured battery pack 900 can be extended.

[0103] (2) Figure 6 and Figure 10 As shown, the acquisition process also includes the following step: obtaining predetermined index values ​​(e.g., by measuring predetermined index values ​​of the sealing portion of the battery cell 100 separated from the recycled battery pack 900). Figure 6 , Figure 10 In steps S111 and S112), if the obtained predetermined index value does not meet the specified value, it is determined that the battery cell 100 with that predetermined index value will not be used for the reconstruction of the battery pack 900 (e.g., Figure 6 , Figure 10 (Steps S113 and S114). Therefore, in the reconfiguration of the battery pack 900, battery cells 100 whose predetermined index values ​​for the sealing portion do not meet predetermined values, which would affect the lifespan of the reconfigured battery pack 900, are not used. As a result, the lifespan of the reconfigured battery pack 900 can be extended.

[0104] (3) Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 9 as well as Figure 10 As shown, in the configuration decision process, the more the predetermined index value indicates a good seal condition, the more likely it is to be configured in areas where the temperature rises during battery pack 900 operation. Areas where the temperature rises during battery pack 900 operation have a greater impact on the seal. Therefore, it is possible to configure battery cells 100 with good seal conditions in areas where the temperature rises significantly impacts the seal. As a result, the lifespan of the reconfigured battery pack 900 can be extended.

[0105] (4) Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, in the configuration decision process, if the predetermined index value is above a predetermined value indicating that the sealing part is in good condition, it is decided to configure it at the part where the temperature during use of the battery pack 900 is above a predetermined degree (e.g., Figure 6 In step S124), on the other hand, if the predetermined index value is less than the predetermined value, it is decided to configure the battery pack 900 at a location where the temperature will not exceed a predetermined degree during use (e.g., ...). Figure 6 (Step S125). Therefore, it is possible to place battery cells 100 with good sealing conditions in areas where the impact on the sealing is relatively large, and battery cells 100 with poor sealing conditions in areas where the impact on the sealing is relatively small. As a result, the lifespan of the reconfigured battery pack 900 can be extended.

[0106] (5) Figures 1-10 As shown, the method for manufacturing the battery pack 900 is a method for manufacturing a battery pack 900 comprising a plurality of laminated battery cells 100 having a sealing portion. For example... Figure 2 , Figure 6 as well as Figure 10 As shown, the manufacturing method includes a step of obtaining a predetermined index value indicating the state of the sealing portion of the battery cell 100 separated from the recycled battery pack 900 (e.g., Figure 2 Steps S101 and S102 Figure 6 , Figure 10 (Steps S111 to S114) are steps in which the location of the battery cell 100 is configured in the reconfiguration of the battery pack 900 is determined based on the state of the sealing portion as indicated by the obtained predetermined index value. (For example, ...) Figure 6 , Figure 10 Steps S122 to S127), and the process of reconfiguring the battery pack 900 by placing the battery cells 100 at the determined locations. Figure 2(Step S103). This extends the lifespan of the reconstructed battery pack 900.

[0107] (6) The battery pack 900 is manufactured by the manufacturing method described in (5) above. As a result, the lifespan of the reconfigured battery pack can be extended.

[0108] (7) Figures 1-10 As shown, the manufacturing aid for the battery pack 900 (e.g., a management server 80) is a manufacturing aid for the battery pack 900 configured to include a plurality of laminated battery cells 100 having sealed portions. Figure 4 As shown, the manufacturing aid includes a processing unit (e.g., the CPU of the information processing device 210) and a storage unit (e.g., the memory of the information processing device 210, the reusable material DB230, and the battery information DB240). Figure 6 and Figure 10 As shown, the arithmetic processing unit stores the acquired predetermined index value representing the state of the sealing part in the storage unit (e.g., Figure 6 , Figure 10 In steps S111 and S112), the configuration of the battery cells 100 in the reconfiguration of the battery pack 900 is determined based on the state of the sealing portion, as indicated by a predetermined index value stored in the storage section (e.g., ...). Figure 6 , Figure 10 (Steps S122 to S126). As a result, the lifespan of the reconstructed battery pack 900 can be extended.

[0109] (8) Figures 1-10 As shown, the manufacturing aid method for the battery pack 900 is a manufacturing aid method for a battery pack 900 configured as including a plurality of laminated battery cells 100 having a sealing portion. For example... Figure 4 , Figure 6 as well as Figure 10 As shown, the manufacturing assistance method is executed by a manufacturing assistance device (e.g., a management server 80) equipped with a computing processing unit (e.g., the CPU of the information processing device 210) and a storage unit (e.g., the memory of the information processing device 210, the recyclable material DB230, and the battery information DB240). Figure 6 and Figure 10 As shown, the manufacturing assistance method includes the step of a processing unit storing a predetermined index value representing the state of the sealing portion in a storage unit (e.g., ...). Figure 6 , Figure 10 Steps S111 and S112) and the step of determining the configuration of individual cells in the battery pack reconfiguration based on the state of the sealing portion represented by a predetermined index value stored in the storage section (e.g., Figure 6 , Figure 10 (Steps S122 to S126). As a result, the lifespan of the reconstructed battery pack 900 can be extended.

[0110] The various embodiments disclosed herein are also intended to be implemented in appropriate combinations. Furthermore, the embodiments disclosed herein should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive in all respects. The scope of this disclosure is defined not by the description of the above embodiments but by the claims, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

Claims

1. A method for reconfiguring a battery pack, the battery pack comprising a plurality of individual cells, each individual cell being laminated and having a sealing portion, wherein, The battery pack reconfiguration method includes: The acquisition process includes acquiring a predetermined index value representing the state of the sealing portion; and The configuration determination process involves determining the configuration of the individual cells in the reconfiguration of the battery pack based on the state of the sealing portion, as indicated by the acquired predetermined index value. In the configuration determination process, regardless of the temperature of each part of the battery pack, the single cells are arranged in order from the upstream side where the cooling effect of the cooling mechanism of the single cell is high to the downstream side where the cooling effect is low, and from the single cell with the smaller sealing width to the single cell with the larger sealing width.

2. The reconstruction method according to claim 1, wherein, In the acquisition process, the predetermined index value is obtained by measuring the predetermined index value of the sealing portion of the individual cell separated from the recovered battery pack. The reconstruction method further includes the following steps: if the obtained predetermined index value does not meet the specified value, it is determined that the single cell with the predetermined index value will not be used in the reconstruction of the battery pack.

3. A method for manufacturing a battery pack, the battery pack comprising a plurality of individual cells, wherein the individual cells are laminated and have a sealing portion, wherein, The manufacturing method of the battery pack includes the following steps: Obtain a predetermined index value representing the state of the sealing portion of the individual cells separated from the recycled battery pack; Based on the state of the sealing portion as indicated by the acquired predetermined index value, the location of the single cell in the reconfiguration of the battery pack is determined; as well as The battery pack is reconfigured by placing the individual cells in the determined locations. Regardless of the temperature of each part of the battery pack, the single cells are arranged in order from the upstream side where the cooling effect of the cooling mechanism of the single cell is high to the downstream side where the cooling effect is low, and from the single cell with the smaller sealing width to the single cell with the larger sealing width.

4. A battery pack, wherein, The battery pack is manufactured using the manufacturing method described in claim 3.

5. A manufacturing auxiliary apparatus for a battery pack, the battery pack comprising a plurality of individual cells, each individual cell being laminated and having a sealing portion, wherein, The manufacturing auxiliary device includes a computing unit and a storage unit. The computing and processing unit A predetermined index value representing the acquired state of the sealing portion is stored in the storage unit. The configuration of the individual cells in the reconfiguration of the battery pack is determined based on the state of the sealing portion, as indicated by the predetermined index value stored in the storage unit. The processing unit determines the configuration of the single cells from upstream of the cooling mechanism with high cooling effect to downstream of the cooling mechanism with low cooling effect, regardless of the temperature of each part of the battery pack. The arrangement is from the single cells with small sealing width to the single cells with large sealing width.

6. A method for manufacturing a battery pack, the battery pack comprising a plurality of individual cells, each individual cell being laminated and having a sealing portion, wherein, The manufacturing assistance method is executed by a manufacturing assistance device equipped with a computing processing unit and a storage unit. The manufacturing assistance method includes the following steps: The processing unit stores a predetermined index value representing the acquired state of the sealing portion in the storage unit; and The processing unit determines the configuration of the individual cells in the reconfiguration of the battery pack based on the state of the sealing portion, as indicated by the predetermined index value stored in the storage unit. The processing unit determines the configuration of the single cells from upstream (where the cooling effect of the cooling mechanism of the single cell is higher) to downstream (where the cooling effect is lower), regardless of the temperature of each part of the battery pack. The arrangement is based on the order of the single cells with smaller sealing widths to those with larger sealing widths.

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