Power storage module

Abstract

The present invention relates to a storage battery module. A plurality of first protrusions (331) protruding from one of an end plate (200) and a contact plate portion (320) toward the other are arranged in a second direction. The plurality of first protrusions (331) each have a top (331t) at a front end whose width in the second direction narrows as it approaches the other from the one side, and abuts the other at the top (331t). The plurality of first protrusions (331) include a first protrusion (331) whose top (331t) overlaps with any one of the plurality of joints (321) when viewed from the first direction.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] As a prior art document that discloses the structure of a power supply device, there is International Publication No. 2019 / 130936. The power supply device described in International Publication No. 2019 / 130936 includes a battery stack, a pair of end plates, and a connecting rod. A pair of end plates are arranged at both ends of the battery stack in the stacking direction. The connecting rod is connected to the pair of end plates to hold the battery stack. The connecting rod includes a plate-shaped rod and a locking block. The plate-shaped rod extends along the stacking direction of the battery stack. The locking block is fixed to the plate-shaped rod by a welding structure and protrudes toward the end plate. The end plate includes a stopper that abuts against the locking block. The facing surface of the stopper side of the locking block abuts against the stopper as a whole and is in close contact with the stopper. Summary of the Invention

[0003] When the end plate and the restraining member are in surface contact, the contact position may become unstable due to microscopic irregularities in the contacting surfaces. In this case, when the stack of battery cells expands and loads are applied from the end plate to the restraining member, the load is applied to the joints between the restraining member's components in an unstable manner, potentially reducing the strength of the joints.

[0004] The present technology has been developed to solve the above-mentioned problems, and an object thereof is to provide a power storage module capable of stabilizing the manner in which a load is applied to a joint between components of a restraint member, thereby improving the endurance of the joint.

[0005] The storage module based on the present technology includes a stack, an end plate, and a restraining member. The stack is stacked with storage cells in a first direction. The end plates are provided at both ends of the stack in the first direction. The restraining member abuts against the end plates from the first direction. The restraining member includes a plate-like portion and a contact plate portion. The plate-like portion extends in the first direction. The contact plate portion is joined to the plate-like portion through a plurality of joints arranged in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, and abuts against the end plate. On the abutting surface between the end plate and the contact plate portion, a plurality of first protrusions protruding from one of the end plate and the contact plate portion toward the other are arranged in the second direction. The plurality of first protrusions each have a top at a front end whose width in the second direction narrows as it approaches the other from the one side, and abuts against the other side at the top. The plurality of first protrusions include a first protrusion whose top overlaps with any one of the plurality of joints when viewed from the first direction.

[0006] The foregoing and other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of the present invention when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Figure 1 It is a perspective view showing the structure of the power storage module according to the first embodiment of the present technology.

[0008] Figure 2 It is a perspective view showing the structure of the electricity storage cells and end plates included in the electricity storage module according to the first embodiment of the present technology.

[0009] Figure 3 It is a perspective view showing the structure of the power storage cell included in the power storage module according to the first embodiment of the present technology.

[0010] Figure 4 Observe from the direction of the arrow on line IV-IV Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a power storage module.

[0011] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the power storage module according to the first embodiment of the present technology.

[0012] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing a state in which the power storage cell included in the power storage module according to the first embodiment of the present technology is expanded.

[0013] Figure 7 Schematic diagram showing the structure of a power storage module according to a first comparative example.

[0014] Figure 8 Schematic diagram showing the structure of a power storage module according to a second comparative example.

[0015] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a power storage module according to a second embodiment of the present technology.

[0016] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a power storage module according to a third embodiment of the present technology.

[0017] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a power storage module according to a fourth embodiment of the present technology.

[0018] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a power storage module according to a fifth embodiment of the present technology.

[0019] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a power storage module according to a sixth embodiment of the present technology.

[0020] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a restraint member included in a power storage module according to a seventh embodiment of the present technology. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present technology will be described. It should be noted that the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description may not be repeated.

[0022] It should be noted that, in the embodiments described below, when numbers, amounts, etc. are mentioned, unless otherwise specified, the scope of the present technology is not necessarily limited to such numbers, amounts, etc. In addition, in the embodiments described below, each component is not necessarily essential to the present technology unless otherwise specified.

[0023] It should be noted that in this specification, the terms "comprise," "include," and "have" are open-ended. That is, when a certain structure is included, other structures other than that structure may also be included, or not included. Furthermore, this technology is not limited to achieving all the effects described in this embodiment.

[0024] In this specification, the term "battery" is not limited to lithium-ion batteries and may include other batteries such as nickel-metal hydride batteries. In this specification, the term "electrode" may refer to both positive and negative electrodes. Furthermore, the term "electrode plate" may refer to both positive and negative plates.

[0025] In this specification, the term "electricity storage unit" or "electricity storage module" is not limited to a battery cell or a battery module, but may include a capacitor cell or a capacitor module.

[0026] It should be noted that in the accompanying drawings, the direction perpendicular to the stacking direction of the storage cell and perpendicular to the direction in which the joints of the restraint components are arranged is set as the X direction as the third direction, the stacking direction of the storage cell is set as the Y direction as the first direction, and the direction in which the joints of the restraint components are arranged is set as the Z direction as the second direction.

[0027] (Implementation Method 1)

[0028] Figure 1 It is a perspective view showing the structure of the power storage module according to the first embodiment of the present technology. Figure 2 It is a perspective view showing the structure of the electricity storage cells and end plates included in the electricity storage module according to the first embodiment of the present technology.

[0029] like Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 As shown, the power storage module 1 as a battery pack includes a stacked body 10 , end plates 200 , restraint members 300 , and a bus bar plate 400 .

[0030] The stack 10 is stacked such that a plurality of storage cells 100 are aligned in a first direction (Y direction). Separators (not shown) are interposed between the storage cells 100. The storage cells 100 sandwiched between the two end plates 200 are pressed against the end plates 200 and constrained therebetween.

[0031] End plates 200 are provided at both ends of the stack 10 in the first direction (Y direction). End plates 200 are fixed to a base, such as a housing, that houses the power storage module 1. Steps 210 are provided at both ends of the end plates 200 in the X direction, on the side opposite to the power storage cell 100 in the Y direction. End plates 200 are made of, for example, aluminum or iron.

[0032] like Figure 1 As shown, the restraining members 300 are provided at both ends of the stack 10 and the end plates 200 in the X direction. The restraining members 300 are engaged with the end plates 200 while a compressive force in the Y direction is applied to the stacked plurality of storage battery cells 100 and end plates 200. The compressive force is then released, causing a tensile force to act on the restraining members 300 connecting the two end plates 200. As a reaction to this, the restraining members 300 press the two end plates 200 toward each other. As a result, the restraining members 300 restrain the stack 10 in the Y direction.

[0033] The restraint member 300 includes a plate-shaped portion 310 , a first flange portion 311 , a second flange portion 312 , and a contact plate portion 320 .

[0034] The plate-shaped portion 310 is a member extending in the first direction (direction Y) and is made of, for example, iron.

[0035] The first flange portion 311 is connected to both ends of the plate-shaped portion 310 in the Y direction. The first flange portion 311 is fixed to the end plate 200. The first flange portion 311 is fixed to the end plate 200 by a known fixing method such as bolt fastening. Thus, the restraint member 300 connects the two end plates 200 to each other.

[0036] The second flange portion 312 extends from the side surface of the stacked body 10 to the upper surface and the bottom surface of the stacked body 10. By providing the second flange portion 312, the rigidity of the relatively thin restraint member 300 can be ensured.

[0037] The contact plate portion 320 is a plate-shaped member provided on the end plate 200 side relative to the plate-shaped portion 310. The contact plate portion 320 is made of iron, for example.

[0038] The busbar plate 400 is disposed on the upper surface of the laminate 10. The busbar plate 400 is fixed to the laminate 10 by being sandwiched between the laminate 10 and the second flange portion 312 at both ends in the X direction.

[0039] A gas duct area (not shown) is provided in the center of the busbar plate 400 in the X direction along the Y direction for discharging gas from the internal portion of the storage cell 100. Voltage detection lines (not shown) are arranged at both ends in the X direction, sandwiching the gas duct area. Furthermore, busbar storage areas (not shown) are provided at both ends in the X direction, sandwiching the gas duct area and the voltage detection lines, to accommodate busbars (not shown) of the storage cell 100.

[0040] Figure 3 : is a perspective view showing the structure of the storage unit included in the storage module according to the first embodiment of the present technology. Figure 3 As shown, the power storage cell 100 includes an electrode terminal 110 , an exterior body 120 , and a gas discharge valve 130 .

[0041] The electrode terminal 110 includes a positive terminal 111 and a negative terminal 112. The electrode terminal 110 is formed on the outer casing 120. The outer casing 120 is formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. The outer casing 120 houses an electrode assembly (not shown) and an electrolyte. The gas discharge valve 130 ruptures when the pressure within the outer casing 120 exceeds a predetermined value. This allows the gas within the outer casing 120 to be discharged outside the outer casing 120.

[0042] Figure 4 Observe from the direction of the arrow on line IV-IV Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the constraint component. Figure 4 As shown, a spacer 500 is provided between the restraint member 300 and the power storage unit 100. The spacer 500 insulates the power storage unit 100 and the restraint member 300 from each other.

[0043] Figure 5 Schematic diagram showing the structure of the power storage module according to the first embodiment of the present technology. Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 As shown, the restraining member 300 contacts the end plate 200 from the first direction (Y direction). Specifically, the contact plate portion 320 of the restraining member 300 contacts the end plate 200 from the first direction (Y direction) at the contact surface CS. Figure 4 As shown, in this embodiment, the contact surface CS is located on the step portion 210 .

[0044] The contact plate portion 320 is joined to the plate-shaped portion 310 via a plurality of joint portions 321 arranged in a second direction (Z direction) orthogonal to the first direction (Y direction). The contact plate portion 320 is joined to the plate-shaped portion 310, for example, by spot welding. The interval between the joints in the Z direction of each of the plurality of joint portions 321 is, for example, 15 mm or more and 30 mm or less.

[0045] like Figure 5 As shown, the power storage module 1 further includes a plurality of first protrusions 331 and at least one second protrusion 332 .

[0046] Each of the plurality of first protrusions 331 and at least one second protrusion 332 is formed on the contact plate portion 320. In this embodiment, each of the plurality of first protrusions 331 and the plurality of second protrusions 332 is formed on the contact plate portion 320 by, for example, stamping.

[0047] A plurality of first protrusions 331 are arranged in a second direction (Z direction) on the contact surface CS between the end plate 200 and the contact plate portion 320. These protrusions project from one end plate 200 toward the other end plate 320. In this embodiment, the plurality of first protrusions 331 are arranged in a Z direction from the contact plate portion 320, which is one end plate, toward the other end plate 200, which is the other end plate.

[0048] Each of the plurality of first protrusions 331 has a top portion 331t at a front end where the width in the second direction (Z direction) narrows as it approaches the end plate 200 from the contact plate portion 320. Each of the plurality of first protrusions 331 abuts the end plate 200 at the top portion 331t on the abutting surface CS.

[0049] The plurality of first protrusions 331 include a first protrusion 331 whose top portion 331t overlaps with any one of the plurality of engagement portions 321 when viewed from the first direction (the Y direction). In this embodiment, the top portion 331t of each of the plurality of first protrusions 331 overlaps with each of the plurality of engagement portions 321 in a one-to-one correspondence when viewed from the Y direction.

[0050] Each of the plurality of first protrusions 331 has a protrusion height H1. The protrusion height H1 is the height in the Y direction from the end surface 320e of the contact plate portion 320 that faces the abutment surface CS. The protrusion height H1 is preferably the same for each of the plurality of first protrusions 331.

[0051] It should be noted that the protrusion heights H1 of the plurality of first protrusions 331 may differ from one another. If the protrusion heights H1 of the plurality of first protrusions 331 differ, it is preferable that the protrusion heights H1 of the first protrusions 331 at the two ends in the Z direction be greater than those of the other first protrusions 331. By making the protrusion heights H1 of the first protrusions 331 at the two ends in the Z direction greater than those of the other first protrusions 331, the posture of the end plate 200 relative to the contact plate portion 320 is less likely to tilt when the storage cell 100 expands, thereby stabilizing the shape of the storage module 1.

[0052] At least one second protrusion 332 is provided between the plurality of first protrusions 331. In this embodiment, two second protrusions 332 are provided between each of the plurality of first protrusions 331.

[0053] The plurality of second protrusions 332 each protrude from the contact plate portion 320 toward the end plate 200. The width of each of the plurality of second protrusions 332 in the second direction (Z direction) narrows as it approaches the end plate 200 from the contact plate portion 320. Each of the plurality of second protrusions 332 has a top 332t at the front end where the width in the Z direction narrows.

[0054] The plurality of second protrusions 332 are each positioned so as to be able to abut the end plate 200. Specifically, a protrusion height H2 of each of the plurality of second protrusions 332 in the first direction (the Y direction) from the end surface 320e of the contact plate portion 320, which is opposite the abutment surface CS, is lower than a protrusion height H1 of each of the plurality of first protrusions 331. Thus, after each of the plurality of first protrusions 331 is pressed and deformed in the Y direction by the end plate 200, the plurality of second protrusions 332 abut against the end plate 200. The protrusion height H2 is lower than the protrusion height H1, for example, within a range of 0.2 mm to 0.4 mm.

[0055] It should be noted that the restraint member 300 in this embodiment has a stacked structure composed of the plate portion 310 and the contact plate portion 320 , but is not limited to this structure. A stacked structure may be formed by folding a single plate-like member.

[0056] In addition, in the present embodiment, two or more second protrusions 332 are disposed between each of the plurality of first protrusions 331 , but a number other than two may be disposed.

[0057] Furthermore, the first protrusion 331 and the second protrusion 332 each have an angular shape toward the end plate 200 , but are not limited to this structure and may also have a semicircular or trapezoidal shape.

[0058] Figure 6 Schematic diagram showing a state in which the storage cell included in the storage module according to the first embodiment of the present technology is expanded. Figure 6 As shown, as the storage cell 100 expands, the end plate 200 moves in the Y direction toward the contact plate portion 320. Consequently, when a load is applied from the end plate 200 to the contact plate portion 320, the first protrusions 331 deform, with their tops 331t being crushed. Subsequently, as the storage cell 100 further expands, the end plate 200 also moves further in the Y direction, abutting against each of the second protrusions 332, exerting a load on the second protrusions 332. As a result, each of the second protrusions 332, along with each of the first protrusions 331, deforms, with its top 332t being crushed.

[0059] Here, a comparative example of the battery module according to Embodiment 1 of the present technology is described. The battery module of the following comparative example has a different contact plate structure from the battery module according to Embodiment 1 of the present technology. Therefore, description of the same structure as that of the battery module according to Embodiment 1 of the present technology will not be repeated.

[0060] Figure 7 Schematic diagram showing the structure of a power storage module according to a first comparative example. Figure 7 As shown, the storage module 9 of the first comparative example includes a storage cell 100, an end plate 200, and a restraining member 900. The restraining member 900 includes a plate portion 910 and a contact plate portion 920. The plate portion 910 and the contact plate portion 920 are joined to each other via a plurality of joints 921.

[0061] The contact plate portion 920 is in surface contact with the end plate 200 at the abutment surface CS.

[0062] The contact plate portion 920 and the end plate 200 may each have microscopic irregularities on their contact surfaces at the contact surface CS. In such cases, the contact plate portion 920 and the end plate 200 may contact each other at random locations within the microscopic irregularities, making the contact position unstable. Consequently, the shape of the battery module 9 becomes unstable.

[0063] Furthermore, because the contact position between the contact plate portion 920 and the end plate 200 becomes unstable, the position at which the load applied from the end plate 200 to the contact plate portion 920 due to the expansion of the power storage cell 100 becomes unstable. Consequently, the direction of the load applied to the plurality of joints 921 becomes unstable. As a result, the resistance of the plurality of joints 921 to the load may be reduced.

[0064] Figure 8 Schematic diagram showing the structure of a power storage module according to a second comparative example. Figure 8 As shown, a power storage module 9A of the second comparative example includes power storage cells 100 , end plates 200 , and a restraining member 900A. The restraining member 900A includes a plate portion 910 and a contact plate portion 920A. The plate portion 910 and the contact plate portion 920A are joined to each other via a plurality of joints 921 .

[0065] The contact plate portion 920A has a plurality of protrusions 930 that protrude toward the end plate 200. Each of the plurality of protrusions 930 has a top portion 930t at a front end where the width in the Z direction is narrowed.

[0066] The restraint member 900A contacts the end plate 200 at the contact surface CS at the top portion 930 t of each of the plurality of protrusions 930 .

[0067] Each of the multiple protrusions 930 and each of the multiple joints 921 are arranged so as not to overlap in the Y direction. When a load is applied to the contact plate portion 920A from the end plate 200 due to expansion of the storage cell 100, the contact plate portion 920A is loaded in the Y direction from the contact positions of each of the multiple protrusions 930. The load applied to the multiple protrusions 930 is propagated to each of the multiple joints 921. In this case, the load is applied to the multiple joints 921 in a direction oblique to the Y direction, and therefore, a load in the rotational direction on the YZ plane is applied to the multiple joints 921. As a result, it is difficult to stably apply the load caused by the expansion of the storage cell 100 to the joints 921, and therefore the resistance of the joints 921 to the load may be reduced.

[0068] On the other hand, Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 As shown, in the energy storage module 1 of this embodiment, expansion of the energy storage cell 100 applies a load in the Y direction from the end plate 200 to the contact plate portion 320. The load applied to the plurality of first protrusions 331 and the plurality of second protrusions 332 is propagated to each of the plurality of joints 321. Since the load on the first protrusions 331, whose tops 331t overlap with the joints 321 when viewed in the Y direction, is primarily responsible for the load applied to each of the plurality of joints 321, the load can be stably applied to the joints 321 in the Y direction. As a result, the resistance of the joints 321 to the load caused by the expansion of the energy storage cell 100 is improved.

[0069] It should be noted that in this embodiment, due to the load caused by the expansion of the storage cell 100, the first protrusion 331 and the second protrusion 332 are deformed, and the end plate 200 is not deformed. However, this is not limited to this structure, and the following structure can also be adopted: the part of the end plate 200 that abuts against the first protrusion 331 and the second protrusion 332 is deformed, and the first protrusion 331 and the second protrusion 332 are not deformed.

[0070] In the storage module 1 of embodiment 1 of the present technology, at least one of the multiple first protrusions 331 is arranged side by side with one of the multiple joints 321 in the first direction (Y direction), so that the load applied from the end plate 200 to the contact plate portion 320 can be stably applied to the joint 321 arranged side by side with the first protrusion 331, thereby improving the endurance of the joint 321.

[0071] In the energy storage module 1 according to the first embodiment of the present technology, the provision of the plurality of second protrusions 332 allows the load applied from the end plate 200 to the contact plate portion 320 to be distributed to each of the plurality of first protrusions 331 and the plurality of second protrusions 332. This reduces the load on each of the plurality of joints 321 and allows the load to be applied evenly to each of the plurality of joints 321. Furthermore, by reducing the load on each of the plurality of joints 321, the overall strength of the energy storage module 1 can be improved.

[0072] In the storage module 1 of embodiment 1 of the present technology, the protrusion height H2 of each of the multiple second protrusions 332 is lower than the protrusion height H1 of the multiple first protrusions 331, so that the second protrusions 332 can be abutted against the end plate 200 after the first protrusions 331 are deformed. Therefore, the load can be stably applied from the first protrusions 331 to the joint 321, and the load can be evenly applied to the multiple joints 321 through the second protrusions 332.

[0073] In the storage battery module 1 of embodiment 1 of the present technology, by arranging the first protrusion 331 and the second protrusion 332 on the contact plate portion 320, the first protrusion 331 and the second protrusion 332 can be easily aligned in the Z direction relative to the joint 321 compared to the case where the first protrusion 331 and the second protrusion 332 are arranged on the end plate 200.

[0074] (Implementation Method 2)

[0075] The following describes a storage module according to a second embodiment of the present technology. The second embodiment of the present technology differs from the storage module 1 according to the first embodiment in the structure of the second protrusion. Therefore, the same structure as the storage module 1 according to the first embodiment will not be described repeatedly.

[0076] Figure 9 Schematic diagram showing the structure of the power storage module according to the second embodiment of the present technology. Figure 9 As shown, the power storage module 1A according to the second embodiment includes power storage cells 100 , end plates 200 , and restraint members 300A.

[0077] The restraining member 300A includes a plate-shaped portion 310 and a contact plate portion 320A. The contact plate portion 320A has a plurality of first protrusions 331A and a plurality of second protrusions 332A that protrude toward the end plate 200.

[0078] The protrusion height H of the plurality of second protrusions 332A in the first direction (Y direction) from the end surface 320 e of the contact plate portion 320A that faces the abutment surface CS is substantially the same as that of the plurality of first protrusions 331A.

[0079] The rigidity of each of the plurality of second protrusions 332A is lower than the rigidity of each of the plurality of first protrusions 331A. In this embodiment, the dedicated area of each of the plurality of second protrusions 332A in the YZ plane is smaller than the dedicated area of each of the plurality of first protrusions 331A in the YZ plane, and therefore has lower rigidity than the plurality of first protrusions 331A. Consequently, when a load is applied to the contact plate portion 320A from the end plate 200 due to expansion of the power storage cell 100, the first protrusions 331A and the second protrusions 332A each deform, and the load applied to the joint portion 321 is primarily due to the load from the first protrusions 331A.

[0080] In the storage module 1A of embodiment 2 of the present technology, the multiple first protrusions 331A and the multiple second protrusions 332A respectively have approximately the same protrusion height, and the rigidity of the second protrusions 332A is lower than that of the first protrusions 331A, so that the load applied from the end plate 200 to the contact plate portion 320A can be dispersed on the multiple first protrusions 331A and the multiple second protrusions 332A, respectively, and the load applied to the joint 321 is mainly composed of the load of the first protrusion 331, thereby improving the endurance of the joint 321.

[0081] (Implementation 3)

[0082] The following describes a storage module according to a third embodiment of the present technology. The storage module according to the third embodiment of the present technology differs from the storage module 1 according to the first embodiment of the present technology in the configuration of the first and second protrusions. Therefore, descriptions of the same configurations as those of the storage module 1 according to the first embodiment of the present technology will not be repeated.

[0083] Figure 10 Schematic diagram showing the structure of the power storage module according to the third embodiment of the present technology. Figure 10 As shown, the power storage module 1B according to the third embodiment includes power storage cells 100 , end plates 200 , and restraint members 300B.

[0084] The restraining member 300B includes a plate-shaped portion 310 and a contact plate portion 320B. The contact plate portion 320B includes a plurality of first protrusions 331B and a single second protrusion 332B that protrude toward the end plate 200. Each of the plurality of first protrusions 331B has a top portion 331t at its front end. The single second protrusion 332B has a top portion 332t at its front end. Each of the plurality of first protrusions 331B has a higher rigidity than the single second protrusion 332B.

[0085] In the Y direction, the first protrusion 331 whose top portion 331t overlaps with any one of the plurality of joining portions 321 is arranged at an end portion in the second direction (Z direction) of the plurality of first protrusions 331. In the present embodiment, each of the plurality of first protrusions 331 is arranged relative to the joining portions 321 at both ends in the Z direction of the plurality of joining portions 321.

[0086] In the storage module 1B of embodiment 3 of the present technology, the first protrusion 331B whose top 331t overlaps with any one of the multiple joints 321 is arranged at a position at the end of the multiple first protrusions 331B in the second direction (Z direction), so that it is easy to apply a load to the joint 321 located at the end of the multiple joints 321 in the Z direction, which has a smaller load than the joint 321 arranged in the center, and load can be applied evenly to each of the multiple joints 321.

[0087] (Implementation 4)

[0088] The following describes a storage module according to a fourth embodiment of the present technology. The storage module according to the fourth embodiment of the present technology differs from the storage module 1 according to the first embodiment of the present technology in the structure of the first protrusion. Therefore, the same structure as the storage module 1 according to the first embodiment of the present technology will not be described repeatedly.

[0089] Figure 11 Schematic diagram showing the structure of a power storage module according to a fourth embodiment of the present technology. Figure 11 As shown, the power storage module 1C according to the fourth embodiment includes power storage cells 100 , end plates 200 , and restraint members 300C.

[0090] The restraining member 300C includes a plate-shaped portion 310 and a contact plate portion 320C. The contact plate portion 320C has a plurality of first protrusions 331C that protrude toward the end plate 200. Each of the plurality of first protrusions 331C has a top portion 331t at a front end.

[0091] For each of the bonding portions 321 located at both ends in the Z direction among the plurality of bonding portions 321 , two first protrusions 331C are provided so that the bonding portion 321 and the top portion 331 t overlap in the Y direction.

[0092] In the storage module 1C of embodiment 4 of the present technology, two first protrusions 331C are arranged with respect to each of the joints 321 arranged at both ends in the Z direction among the multiple joints 321, and the joints 321 and the top 331t overlap in the Y direction. This makes it easy to apply load to the joints 321 located at both ends among the multiple joints 321, which have less load than the joint 321 arranged in the center in the Z direction, and it is possible to apply load evenly to the multiple joints 321.

[0093] (Implementation 5)

[0094] The following describes a storage module according to a fifth embodiment of the present technology. The storage module according to the fifth embodiment of the present technology differs from the storage module 1 according to the first embodiment of the present technology in the end plate and contact plate structures. Therefore, descriptions of the same structures as those of the storage module 1 according to the first embodiment of the present technology will not be repeated.

[0095] Figure 12 Schematic diagram showing the structure of a power storage module according to a fifth embodiment of the present technology. Figure 12 As shown, the power storage module 1D according to the fifth embodiment includes the power storage cell 100, an end plate 200D, and a restraint member 300D. The restraint member 300D includes a plate portion 310 and a contact plate portion 320D.

[0096] Each of the plurality of first protrusions 221 is formed on the end plate 200D, along with at least one second protrusion 222. In this embodiment, the end plate 200D is formed with a plurality of second protrusions 222. The plurality of second protrusions 222 are positioned between the plurality of first protrusions 221. The rigidity of each of the plurality of first protrusions 221 is higher than that of the plurality of second protrusions 222.

[0097] Each of the plurality of first protrusions 221 has a top portion 221t at its front end. Each of the plurality of second protrusions 222 has a top portion 222t at its front end. In this embodiment, the plurality of first protrusions 221 and the plurality of second protrusions 222 are formed together with the end plate 200D by injection molding, for example.

[0098] In the storage battery module 1D of the fifth embodiment of the present technology, the load applied from the end plate 200D to the contact plate portion 320D can be dispersed respectively among the plurality of first protrusions 221 and the plurality of second protrusions 222, and the load applied to the joint portion 321 is mainly composed of the load of the first protrusion 221, thereby improving the endurance of the joint portion 321.

[0099] (Implementation 6)

[0100] The following describes a storage module according to a sixth embodiment of the present technology. The storage module according to the sixth embodiment of the present technology differs from the storage module 1 according to the first embodiment of the present technology in the end plate and contact plate structures. Therefore, descriptions of the same structures as those of the storage module 1 according to the first embodiment of the present technology will not be repeated.

[0101] Figure 13 Schematic diagram showing the structure of a power storage module according to a sixth embodiment of the present technology. Figure 13As shown, the power storage module 1E according to the sixth embodiment includes a power storage cell 100 , an end plate 200E, and a restraint member 300E.

[0102] The restraining member 300E includes a plate-shaped portion 310 and a contact plate portion 320E. The contact plate portion 320E has a plurality of first protrusions 331E that protrude toward the end plate 200E. Each of the first protrusions 331E has a top portion 331t at its front end. The first protrusions 331E abut against the end plate 200E at the top portion 331t on the abutment surface CS.

[0103] The end plate 200E is provided with a plurality of facing protrusions 230. The plurality of facing protrusions 230 are respectively located between the plurality of first protrusions 331E in the second direction (Z direction).

[0104] Multiple facing protrusions 230 protrude from the end plate 200E toward the contact plate portion 320E. The width of each of the multiple facing protrusions 230 in the second direction (Z direction) narrows as it moves from the end plate 200E toward the contact plate portion 320E. Each of the multiple facing protrusions 230 has a top 230t at the front end where the width in the Z direction narrows.

[0105] Specifically, the projection height H2 of each of the plurality of facing protrusions 230 from the contact surface CS in the Y direction is lower than the projection height H1 of each of the plurality of first protrusions 331E from the end surface 320e in the Y direction.

[0106] The rigidity of each of the plurality of facing protrusions 230 is lower than the rigidity of each of the plurality of first protrusions 331E. In this embodiment, the end plate 200E is made of a material with lower rigidity than the contact plate portion 320E, so the rigidity of each of the plurality of facing protrusions 230 is lower than the rigidity of each of the plurality of first protrusions 331E. In this embodiment, the end plate 200E is made of, for example, aluminum. The contact plate portion 320E is made of, for example, iron.

[0107] As the storage cell 100 expands, the end plate 200E moves toward the contact plate portion 320E in the Y direction. Consequently, when a load is applied from the end plate 200E to the contact plate portion 320E, the multiple first protrusions 331E deform, with their tops 331t being crushed. Subsequently, as the storage cell 100 further expands, the end plate 200E moves further in the Y direction, causing the multiple facing protrusions 230 to abut against the contact plate portion 320E at their end faces 320e, exerting a load on each of the multiple facing protrusions 230. As a result, each of the multiple facing protrusions 230, along with each of the multiple first protrusions 331, deforms, with their tops 230t being crushed. The rigidity of each of the plurality of facing protrusions 230 is lower than the rigidity of each of the plurality of first protrusions 331E. Therefore, even if the plurality of facing protrusions 230 are deformed, the load applied to the joint 321 is mainly composed of the load from the plurality of first protrusions 331E.

[0108] In the storage module 1E of embodiment 6 of the present technology, multiple first protrusions 331E are arranged on the contact plate portion 320E, and multiple opposing protrusions 230 are arranged on the end plate 200E, so that the rigidity of each of the multiple opposing protrusions 230 is lower than the rigidity of each of the multiple first protrusions 331E. As a result, the load can be stably applied to the joint 321 with the load received from each of the multiple first protrusions 331E as the main component, thereby improving the endurance of the joint 321.

[0109] (Implementation 7)

[0110] The following describes a storage module according to a seventh embodiment of the present technology. The structure of the restraint member of the storage module 1 according to the seventh embodiment of the present technology differs from that of the storage module 1 according to the first embodiment of the present technology. Therefore, description of the same structure as that of the storage module 1 according to the first embodiment of the present technology will not be repeated.

[0111] Figure 14 Schematic diagram showing the structure of the restraint member included in the power storage module according to the seventh embodiment of the present technology. Figure 14 As shown, the power storage module of Embodiment 7 includes a power storage cell, an end plate, and a restraining member 300F. The restraining member 300F includes a plate-shaped portion 310F and a contact plate portion 320F. The contact plate portion 320F has a plurality of first protrusions 331F that protrude toward the end plate. Each of the plurality of first protrusions 331F has a top portion 331t at its tip.

[0112] The plate-like portion 310F has cutouts 313 in portions that do not overlap with the contact plate portion 320F. In this embodiment, a plurality of cutouts 313 are provided in the plate-like portion 310F at intervals in the Y and Z directions. The cutouts 313 have a rectangular shape with a length in the Y direction.

[0113] The contact plate portion 320F is joined to the plate-shaped portion 310F via a plurality of joints 321. Each of the plurality of joints 321 does not overlap with the cutout portion 313 in the first direction (the Y direction). Consequently, when a load is applied to the contact plate portion 320F from the end plate, the load propagated from the plurality of first protrusions 331F and applied to the plurality of joints 321 can be prevented from being applied obliquely with respect to the Y direction. Consequently, the application of a rotational load in the YZ plane to each of the plurality of joints 321 can be suppressed.

[0114] In the storage battery module of embodiment 7 of the present technology, a cutout portion 313 is provided in the restraint component 300F, and the cutout portion 313 and the joint portion 321 are not arranged side by side in the Y direction, thereby suppressing the load in the rotational direction on the YZ plane applied to the multiple joint portions 321, thereby improving the endurance of the joint portions 321.

[0115] While the embodiments of the present invention have been described, the embodiments disclosed herein are to be construed in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims, and is intended to encompass all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims and equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. A power storage module, wherein: The power storage module comprises: a stacked body having power storage cells stacked in a first direction; end plates, the end plates being arranged at both ends of the stack in the first direction; as well as a restraining member, the restraining member abutting against the end plate from the first direction, The restraining component includes: a plate-shaped portion extending along the first direction; as well as a contact plate portion that is joined to the plate-shaped portion via a plurality of joint portions arranged in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction and abuts against the end plate, On the contact surface between the end plate and the contact plate portion, a plurality of first protrusions protruding from one of the end plate and the contact plate portion toward the other are arranged in an array in the second direction. Each of the plurality of first protrusions has a top portion at a front end where the width in the second direction narrows as it approaches from the one side to the other side, and the top portion abuts against the other side. The plurality of first protrusions include a first protrusion whose top portion overlaps with any one of the plurality of engagement portions when viewed from the first direction.

2. The power storage module according to claim 1, wherein The power storage module further includes at least one second protrusion, wherein the at least one second protrusion is provided between the plurality of first protrusions, protrudes from the one side toward the other side, and has a width in the second direction that narrows as it moves from the one side toward the other side. The at least one second protrusion is arranged at a position capable of coming into contact with the other protrusion.

3. The power storage module according to claim 2, wherein: A protrusion height of the at least one second protrusion in the first direction from the one end surface facing the abutting surface is lower than a protrusion height of each of the plurality of first protrusions.

4. The power storage module according to claim 2, wherein: The protrusion height of the at least one second protrusion in the first direction from the end face of the one side opposite to the abutting face is substantially the same as the protrusion height of each of the plurality of first protrusions, and the rigidity of the at least one second protrusion is lower than the rigidity of each of the plurality of first protrusions.

5. The power storage module according to claim 4, wherein The first protrusion whose top portion overlaps with any one of the plurality of engaging portions is arranged at an end portion of the plurality of first protrusions in the second direction.

6. The power storage module according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein Each of the plurality of first protrusions and the at least one second protrusion is formed on the contact plate portion.

7. The power storage module according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein Each of the plurality of first protrusions and the at least one second protrusion is formed on the end plate.

8. The power storage module according to claim 1, wherein The power storage module further includes at least one facing protrusion, wherein the at least one facing protrusion is located between the plurality of first protrusions in the second direction, protrudes from the other side toward the one side, and has a width in the second direction that narrows as it approaches the one side from the other side. The at least one opposing protrusion is disposed at a position capable of contacting the one side, and has a lower rigidity than each of the plurality of first protrusions.

9. The power storage module according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein The plate-shaped portion is provided with a cutout portion at a portion not overlapping with the contact plate portion. Each of the plurality of engagement portions does not overlap with the cutout portion in the first direction.

Images