Battery module

Abstract

Provided is a battery module capable of measuring an accurate temperature of a battery pack. A battery module (1) according to the present disclosure is provided with: a battery (10); a battery holder (20) that accommodates the battery (10) and has an opening (22) from which a part of the battery (10) is exposed; a temperature sensor (30) in contact with a portion of the battery (10) exposed from the opening (22); a circuit board (40); a first elastic interposing member (50) interposed between the temperature sensor (30) and the circuit board (40); and a second elastic sandwiching member (60) interposed between the circuit board (40) and the battery holder (20) and surrounding the periphery of the opening (22), the first elastic sandwiching member (50) being sandwiched between the circuit board (40) and the temperature sensor (30), and the second elastic sandwiching member (60) being sandwiched between the circuit board (40) and the battery holder (20).

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] There is known the following technique: for a battery module including a battery pack in which a plurality of batteries are grouped together, the battery temperature is measured, and based on the measured battery temperature, battery abnormalities are determined.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 describes a power supply device for a vehicle, including: a plurality of batteries arranged in upper and lower layers to drive the vehicle; a battery holder that positions each battery at a fixed position; and a temperature sensor thermally coupled to the surface of the battery to detect the battery temperature. The power supply device controls the current of the battery based on the battery temperature detected by the temperature sensor. The battery holder is provided with a leakage prevention cover above the temperature sensor, and the leakage prevention cover allows the electrolyte leaked from the upper battery to flow to the outside of the temperature sensor.

[0004] Prior Art Documents

[0005] Patent Documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-270122 Summary of the Invention

[0007] Technical Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0008] As a general method for measuring the battery temperature of a battery pack, a method can be cited in which a voltage is applied to a temperature sensor (e.g., a thermistor) from the outside, and the battery temperature is detected based on the change in the temperature sensor (e.g., a change in resistance value).

[0009] Here, depending on the usage mode of the battery module, it is considered that moisture infiltrates from the outside of the battery module. When the infiltrated moisture contacts the temperature sensor, the resistance value of the temperature sensor increases due to the moisture, making it difficult to accurately measure the temperature of the battery pack.

[0010] In addition, when measuring the battery temperature of the battery pack, the temperature sensor is brought into contact with the battery pack, but if the contact is insufficient, it is difficult to accurately measure the temperature. Further, when the lead wire extending from the temperature sensor approaches a structure other than the battery pack (e.g., the housing that houses the battery pack), heat transfer occurs from the structure, making it difficult to accurately measure the temperature of the battery pack.

[0011] Therefore, the main object of the present disclosure is to provide a battery module capable of accurately measuring the temperature of a battery pack.

[0012] Technical Solution for Solving the Technical Problem

[0013] The battery module according to the present disclosure includes:

[0014] Batteries:

[0015] A battery holder that houses the battery and has an opening through which a part of the battery is exposed;

[0016] A temperature sensor that contacts the part of the battery exposed through the opening;

[0017] A circuit board;

[0018] A first elastic clamping member interposed between the temperature sensor and the circuit board; and

[0019] A second elastic clamping member interposed between the circuit board and the battery holder and surrounding the periphery of the opening.

[0020] Effects of the Invention

[0021] According to the battery module of the present disclosure, the accurate temperature of the battery pack can be measured. Specifically, through the first elastic clamping member interposed between the temperature sensor and the circuit board, the adhesion between the temperature sensor and the battery can be improved. In addition, through the second elastic clamping member surrounding the periphery of the opening, the waterproof property of the temperature sensor can be improved. Thereby, the temperature measurement accuracy of the temperature sensor can be improved. Description of the Drawings

[0022] Figure 1A It is a schematic perspective view of the battery module according to the first embodiment as viewed from the upper surface side.

[0023] Figure 1B It is a schematic perspective view of the battery module according to the first embodiment as viewed from the lower surface side.

[0024] Figure 2A It is a schematic perspective view of the battery module cut along the line II-II as viewed from the upper surface side Figure 1A of.

[0025] Figure 2B It is Figure 1A a schematic cross-sectional view of the battery module cut along the line II-II.

[0026] Figure 2C It is a schematic top view of the battery module according to the first embodiment.

[0027] Figure 3 It is an explanatory diagram showing the permeation mode of liquid in a foam having independent bubbles and the permeation mode of liquid in a foam having continuous bubbles.

[0028] Figure 4AIt is a schematic perspective view of the battery module according to the second embodiment as viewed from the upper surface side.

[0029] Figure 4B It is a schematic perspective view of the battery module according to the second embodiment as viewed from the lower surface side.

[0030] Figure 4C It is a schematic bottom view of the circuit board of the battery module according to the second embodiment.

[0031] Figure 5A It is an explanatory diagram showing the arrangement manner of the second elastic clamping member of the battery module according to the second embodiment.

[0032] Figure 5B It is an explanatory diagram showing the arrangement manner of the second elastic clamping member of the battery module according to the second embodiment.

[0033] Figure 6A It is a schematic cross-sectional view of the battery module according to the third embodiment.

[0034] Figure 6B It is a schematic cross-sectional view of the battery module according to the third embodiment. Detailed Embodiment

[0035] Hereinafter, the battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in more detail. Although the description is made with reference to the drawings as needed, various elements in the drawings are schematically and exemplarily shown for understanding the present disclosure, and the appearance, dimensional ratio, etc. may be different from the actual object.

[0036] Regarding various numerical ranges mentioned in this specification, as long as no special terms such as "less than" or "more / greater" are added, it means that the numerical values of the lower limit and the upper limit are also included. That is, for example, if a numerical range of 1 to 10 is taken as an example, it can be understood that it includes the lower limit value of "1" and also includes the upper limit value of "10". In addition, terms such as "about" and "degree" mean that a few percent can be included, for example, a variation of ±10%.

[0037] As used in this specification, "top-down observation" refers to the state when the object to be placed (e.g., a battery module) is placed and observed directly from directly above in the thickness (height) direction, which has the same meaning as a top view. As an example, the top-down observation is the state when observing along the negative direction on the "Z-axis" shown in FIG. 1. As used in this specification, "side view observation", unless otherwise specified, refers to the state when the object to be placed (e.g., a battery module) is placed and observed from the side perpendicular to its thickness (height) direction, which has the same meaning as a side view. As an example, the side view observation is the state when observing along the negative direction (or positive direction) on the "Y-axis" shown in FIG. 1. As used in this specification, "front view observation", unless otherwise specified, refers to the state when the object to be placed (e.g., a battery module) is placed and observed from the front perpendicular to its thickness (height) direction, which has the same meaning as a front view. As an example, the front view observation is the state when observing along the positive direction on the "X-axis" shown in FIG. 1. It should be noted that the above "positive direction" refers to the direction of the arrows of the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis shown in the drawings, and the "negative direction" refers to the direction opposite to the direction of the arrows of the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis shown in the drawings. In addition, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are in a mutually orthogonal relationship.

[0038] - First Embodiment of the Battery Module of the Present Disclosure -

[0039] The first embodiment of the battery module 1 of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3. The battery module 1 of the present disclosure includes: a battery 10; a battery holder 20 that houses the battery 10 and has an opening 22 that exposes a part of the battery 10; a temperature sensor 30 that contacts a part of the battery 10; a circuit board 40; a first elastic clamping member 50 that is interposed between the temperature sensor 30 and the circuit board 40; and a second elastic clamping member 60 that surrounds the periphery of the opening 22. The first elastic clamping member 50 is clamped between the circuit board 40 and the temperature sensor 30, and the second elastic clamping member 60 is clamped between the circuit board 40 and the battery holder 20. According to the battery module 1 of the present disclosure, since the first elastic clamping member 50 and the second elastic clamping member 60 are provided, the waterproof property of the temperature sensor 30 and the adhesion between the temperature sensor 30 and the battery 10 can be improved. Therefore, the temperature measurement accuracy of the temperature sensor 30 can be improved. Hereinafter, the components of the first embodiment of the battery module 1 of the present disclosure will be specifically described.

[0040] · Battery

[0041] The battery 10 mainly refers to a chemical battery that converts chemical energy into DC power through a chemical reaction. As Figure 1A and Figure 1BAs shown, the battery 10 used in the battery module 1 of the present embodiment refers to a cylindrical battery. The shape of the battery 10 may also be a shape other than a cylindrical shape (for example, an elliptical cylinder shape, a rectangular column shape, a polygonal column shape, etc.).

[0042] From the viewpoint of measuring the resistance value by contacting the temperature sensor 30 described later, the outer peripheral surface of the battery 10 may expose the metal can. When the metal can is exposed, the thermal resistance is smaller than the case where the battery is covered with a film, and the battery temperature can be detected with high accuracy. It should be noted that since the battery module 1 of the present disclosure includes the second elastic clamping member 60 described later, it is difficult for moisture to penetrate into the interior of the battery module 1. Therefore, the outer peripheral surface of the battery 10 may expose the metal can, but the outer peripheral surface of the battery 10 except for the portion in contact with the temperature sensor 30 may also be covered with a film or the like.

[0043] · Battery holder

[0044] The battery holder 20 includes a housing portion 21 for housing the battery 10. In addition, the battery holder 20 can mount the circuit board 40. In Figure 1A the example shown, screw fixing portions 23 for fixing the circuit board 40 may be provided at the four corners of the battery holder 20. The circuit board 40 can be fixed to the battery holder 20 via the screw fixing portions 23.

[0045] The housing portion 21 has a space for housing the battery 10. This space extends in the positive X-axis direction for housing the battery 10. In addition, a plurality of such spaces are provided adjacent to each other in the positive Y-axis direction, and the battery 10 can be housed in each space. Therefore, the battery holder 20 can house a plurality of batteries 10. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the battery holder 20 has five housing portions 21 along the positive Y-axis direction and can house five batteries 10. It should be noted that the number of the housing portions 21 is not limited to five, and may be two or more.

[0046] The battery holder 20 has an opening 22 that exposes a part of the battery 10. The opening 22 may be provided to face the circuit board 40 described later. More specifically, the opening 22 is for allowing the temperature sensor 30 and the first elastic clamping member 50 described later to enter.

[0047] The opening 22 is preferably provided near the center of the battery holder 20. The "vicinity of the central portion" of the battery holder 20 as described in this specification means that the center of the opening 22 is within a range of 10% of the length in the positive Y-axis direction of the battery holder 20 with respect to the central position in the positive Y-axis direction of the battery holder 20, and within a range of 10% of the length in the positive X-axis direction of the battery holder 20 with respect to the central position in the positive X-axis direction of the battery holder 20. In FIG. 1 showing an example, a mode in which one opening 22 is provided near the center of the battery holder 20 is illustrated.

[0048] The reason for providing the opening near the center of the battery holder 20 will be described. Compared with the housing portion 21 for housing the outer battery 10, heat is more likely to stay in the housing portion 21 of the battery 10 housed inside. More specifically, heat is likely to stay in the housing portion 21 near the center in the positive Y-axis direction. Similarly, in the housing portion 21, heat is likely to stay near the center in the positive X-axis direction. Therefore, by providing the opening 22 near the central portion of the battery holder 20 where heat is likely to stay in the battery holder 20, it is possible to measure the temperature at a position that is particularly likely to become high temperature inside the battery holder 20, and it is possible to appropriately judge the abnormality of the battery 10.

[0049] · Temperature sensor

[0050] The temperature sensor 30 contacts the portion of the battery 10 exposed from the opening 22 and measures the temperature of the contacted portion. As an example of the temperature sensor 30, a thermistor whose resistance value changes according to temperature can be cited.

[0051] As a preferred mode of the temperature sensor 30, the temperature sensor 30 may have a sensor body 31 and a lead 32 electrically connected to the sensor body 31. The sensor body 31 is a structure capable of changing the resistance value of the sensor body 31 by contacting the object to be measured for temperature. In addition, the lead 32 is a structure through which the current generated by the sensor body 31 whose resistance value changes according to the temperature of the object to be measured for temperature flows.

[0052] In addition, as a preferred mode of the temperature sensor 30, the above-mentioned sensor body 31 and lead 32 may be arranged at a position separated from the battery holder 20. The "arranged at a position separated from the battery holder" as described in this specification means that, as Figure 2CAs shown, the sensor main body 31 and the lead wire 32 do not contact the battery holder 20. More specifically, it means that there is a gap between the sensor main body 31 and the lead wire 32 and the battery holder 20. In this way, by arranging the temperature sensor 30 not to contact the battery holder 20, it is possible to prevent the temperature sensor 30 from detecting the temperature of the battery holder 20 and to perform more accurate battery temperature measurement.

[0053] The temperature sensor 30 used in the present disclosure may use a non-waterproof thermistor. Generally, a waterproof thermistor is at least subjected to a covering process for waterproofing the sensor main body 31, etc., and has a tendency of having a large thermal resistance caused by the covering and a low sensor sensitivity. Therefore, in order to perform high-precision temperature measurement, it is preferable not to perform a covering process for waterproofing and to use a non-waterproof thermistor with a small influence of the thermal resistance caused by the covering. In the battery module of the present disclosure, the second elastic clamping member 60 described in detail later makes it more difficult for moisture to enter the inside of the battery module 1, so a non-waterproof thermistor with high sensor sensitivity can be adopted.

[0054] · Circuit board

[0055] The circuit board 40 is a structure that functions as a control circuit for controlling the power of the battery 10. The circuit board 40 has an outer surface 41 exposed to the outside and an inner surface 42 facing the battery holder 20. In addition, the circuit board 40 is arranged so as to cover the opening 22 of the battery holder 20. As an example of the mounting method for mounting the circuit board 40 on the battery holder 20, a method of fastening with screws can be cited. In Figure 1A the example shown, screw fixing portions 23 are formed at the corners of the battery holder 20, and the circuit board 40 and the battery holder 20 are mounted using the screw fixing portions 23. It should be noted that, in the mounting of the circuit board 40 and the battery holder 20, methods other than fastening with screws can also be used.

[0056] On the inner surface 42 of the circuit board 40, there are provided: a first elastic clamping member 50 arranged corresponding to the opening 22 of the battery holder 20; a second elastic clamping member 60 surrounding the first elastic clamping member 50; and a temperature sensor 30 arranged in the area surrounded by the second elastic clamping member 60. In addition, the sensor main body 31 of the temperature sensor 30 is mounted on the first elastic clamping member 50.

[0057] · First elastic clamping member

[0058] The first elastic clamping component 50 is disposed between the temperature sensor 30 and the circuit board 40. In addition, the first elastic clamping component 50 is clamped between the circuit board 40 and the temperature sensor 30. It should be noted that the "elastic clamping component" mentioned in this specification refers to a component that can be deformed by an external force and is clamped between two structures. More specifically, since the elastic clamping component mentioned in this specification is disposed on the circuit board, it refers to a component disposed between the circuit board and other structures.

[0059] Since the battery module 1 of the present disclosure is provided with the first elastic clamping component 50, when the circuit board 40 is mounted on the battery holder 20, an external force is applied to the first elastic clamping component 50 in the negative Z-axis direction, and the first elastic clamping component 50 is compressed and deformed. Thereby, the sensor body 31 of the temperature sensor 30 mounted on the first elastic clamping component 50 can be closely attached to the battery 10.

[0060] As a preferred embodiment of the first elastic clamping component 50, the first elastic clamping component 50 is preferably a flame-retardant resin material. More preferably, flame-retardant PP (polypropylene), PE (polyethylene), polyolefin, and polyurethane foams can be cited.

[0061] The foam of the first elastic clamping component 50 is preferably a foam having continuous bubbles. The "foam having continuous bubbles" mentioned in this specification refers to a structure in which one bubble is connected to other bubbles. The first elastic clamping component 50 is preferably a so-called continuous bubble foam. Alternatively, as a preferred embodiment, the first elastic clamping component 50 may also be a so-called semi-closed semi-connected bubble foam described later. The "foam having continuous bubbles" generally has excellent energy absorption characteristics. Therefore, even if a load such as an external impact is applied to the battery module of the present disclosure, the energy based on the external impact can be absorbed by the foam having continuous bubbles. Therefore, the sensor body 31 of the temperature sensor 30 mounted on the first elastic clamping component 50 can be protected, and the temperature measurement accuracy can be improved.

[0062] As a preferred embodiment of the first elastic clamping component 50, the first elastic clamping component 50 may be harder than the second elastic clamping component 60. By making the first elastic clamping component 50 relatively hard, the sensor body 31 of the temperature sensor 30 can be fixed at a specified position.

[0063] As a more specific index of the hardness of the first elastic clamping component 50, the 50% compression hardness of the first elastic clamping component 50 may be 3 to 10 N / cm 2 , and the 70% compression hardness may be 7 to 20 N / cm 2It should be noted that the compression hardness in this specification is the value measured based on the JIS K 6400-2D method. Specifically, the compression hardness means that the object to be measured is placed flat, a circular pressure plate with a diameter of 200 mm is placed, and after being pressed into a distance of 75% of the original thickness of the object to be measured and then restored to its original state, it is pressed into a distance of 25% of the original thickness again and left stationary for 20 seconds, and the load value at this time. If it is within the numerical range of the above compression hardness, the sensor body 31 can be more effectively fitted to the battery 10, and the sensor body 31 can be fixed at a specified position.

[0064] In addition, by adjusting the compression hardness of the relatively hard first elastic clamping member 50 within the above range, or adjusting the thickness of the first elastic clamping member 50, the gap (spacing) between the battery holder 20 and the circuit board 40 can also be adjusted.

[0065] · Second elastic clamping member

[0066] The second elastic clamping member 60 is disposed around the opening 22 provided in the battery holder 20. In addition, the second elastic clamping member 60 is clamped between the circuit board 40 and the battery holder 20.

[0067] When the circuit board 40 is mounted on the battery holder 20 in the battery module 1 of the present disclosure, an external force is applied to the second elastic clamping member 60 in the negative Z-axis direction, and the second elastic clamping member 60 is compressed and deformed. By the compression deformation of the second elastic clamping member 60, the periphery of the opening 22 of the battery holder 20 is sealed, so that moisture can be prevented from infiltrating into the temperature sensor 30 in the opening 22, thereby improving the waterproof performance.

[0068] As a preferred embodiment of the second elastic clamping member 60, the second elastic clamping member 60 is preferably a flame-retardant resin material. More preferably, flame-retardant PP (polypropylene), PE (polyethylene), polyolefin, and polyurethane foam can be cited. In addition, the material of the second elastic clamping member 60 can be the same as that of the first elastic clamping member 50, or different materials can be used.

[0069] The foam of the second elastic clamping member 60 may be a foam having independent bubbles or a foam having both independent bubbles and continuous bubbles. The "foam having independent bubbles" as described in this specification refers to a structure in which each bubble is not connected to other bubbles. In addition, the "foam having both independent bubbles and continuous bubbles" as described in this specification refers to both a structure in which each bubble is not connected to other bubbles and a structure in which each bubble is connected to other bubbles, or even if multiple bubbles are connected, by compressing and deforming the foam, each bubble can be separated, resulting in a structure close to the "foam having independent bubbles". It should be noted that the "foam having both independent bubbles and continuous bubbles" described in this specification is synonymous with the so-called semi-independent semi-continuous foam. In addition, the "foam having independent bubbles" as described in this specification is synonymous with the so-called independent foam.

[0070] Here, refer to Figure 3 to describe the method of water infiltration into the "foam having independent bubbles" and the "foam having continuous bubbles". Figure 3 In the "foam having continuous bubbles" shown, since each bubble is connected to other bubbles, water propagates between the bubbles. That is, since it is a structure in which water easily propagates in the foam, it can be said that it is a structure that is difficult to prevent water infiltration. On the other hand, Figure 3 In the "foam having independent bubbles" shown, since each bubble is not connected, water is difficult to propagate between the bubbles. Therefore, compared with the "foam having continuous bubbles", the "foam having independent bubbles" can be said to be a structure that further prevents water infiltration. In addition, even in the above-mentioned semi-independent semi-continuous foam, by compressing and deforming it, each bubble is separated from other bubbles, so it becomes a structure close to the "foam having independent bubbles". Therefore, it can be said that the "semi-independent semi-continuous foam" is a structure that prevents water infiltration.

[0071] In the battery module 1 of the present disclosure, a "foam having independent bubbles" or a "semi-independent semi-continuous foam" is provided around the opening 22 as the second elastic clamping member 60. Therefore, the situation where water infiltrates into the battery module 1 via the opening 22 can be reduced. That is, by surrounding the periphery of the opening with an independent bubble foam or a semi-independent semi-continuous foam that exhibits waterproof performance through compression, the infiltration of water into the opening can be suppressed.

[0072] In the "foam" of this specification, the discrimination methods for "foam with continuous bubbles", "foam with independent bubbles", and "semi-independent semi-continuous foam" will be described. As the discrimination methods, the following two discrimination methods are used for judgment: (1) A method of confirming whether there is penetration to the back surface of the foam immediately after dropping water on the surface of the foam; (2) A method of compressing and deforming the foam from the front and back surfaces after dropping water on the surface of the foam and confirming whether there is penetration to the back surface of the foam.

[0073] "Foam with continuous bubbles" refers to: (1) A foam that is immediately penetrated when water is dropped on the surface of the foam and the penetration of water can be confirmed on the back surface of the foam; and (2) A foam that can confirm the penetration of water on the back surface of the foam when the foam is compressed after dropping water on the surface of the foam.

[0074] "Foam with independent bubbles" refers to: (1) When water is dropped on the surface of the foam, the penetration of water cannot be confirmed on the back surface of the foam; and (2) When the foam is compressed after dropping water on the surface of the foam, the penetration of water cannot be confirmed on the back surface of the foam.

[0075] "Semi-independent semi-continuous foam" refers to: (1) When water is dropped on the surface of the foam, it is immediately penetrated and the penetration of water can be confirmed on the back surface of the foam; (2) When the foam is compressed after dropping water on the surface of the foam, the penetration of water cannot be confirmed on the back surface of the foam.

[0076] It should be noted that in addition to these discrimination methods, it is also possible to perform discrimination by observing the cross-section of the foam with a microscope or the like.

[0077] As a preferred embodiment of the second elastic clamping member 60, the second elastic clamping member 60 can be softer than the first elastic clamping member 50. By making the second elastic clamping member 60 relatively soft, the second elastic clamping member 60 can be easily compressed and deformed, and can follow the unevenness on the surface of the battery holder 20 and the unevenness on the surface of the circuit board 40 to further improve the waterproof property.

[0078] As a more specific index of the hardness of the second elastic clamping member 60, the 50% compression hardness of the second elastic clamping member 60 can be 0.2 - 1.0 N / cm 2 , and the 70% compression hardness can be 1 - 3 N / cm 2 . If it is within the above numerical range of the compression hardness, the second elastic clamping member 60 can be more effectively compressed and deformed, and through the compressed and deformed second elastic clamping member 60, the situation where moisture enters the battery module 1 through the opening 22 can be reduced.

[0079] As described above, in the battery module of the present disclosure, the first elastic clamping member 50 interposed between the temperature sensor 30 and the circuit board 40 can improve the tightness between the temperature sensor 30 and the battery 10. In addition, the second elastic clamping member 60 surrounding the periphery of the opening 22 can improve the waterproof property of the temperature sensor 30. Thus, the temperature measurement accuracy of the temperature sensor 30 can be improved.

[0080] -Second Embodiment of the Battery Module of the Present Disclosure-

[0081] Regarding the second embodiment of the battery module of the present disclosure, it will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5. The structure of the second elastic clamping member 60 and the structure of the opening 22 in the second embodiment are different from those in the above-described embodiment. Regarding other structures, they are substantially the same as those in the above-described embodiment. Hereinafter, the different structures will be described.

[0082] ·Battery Holder

[0083] The battery holder 20 of the second embodiment houses a plurality of batteries 10 and has a plurality of openings 22 that expose a part of each corresponding battery 10. In Figure 4A the example shown, five openings 22 are provided corresponding to all of the five housing portions 21. That is, the five openings 22 are provided so as to be adjacent to each other along the direction (positive Y-axis direction) in which the batteries 10 are arranged.

[0084] ·Circuit Board

[0085] On the inner surface 42 of the circuit board 40 of the second embodiment, there are provided: a first elastic clamping member 50 provided corresponding to the plurality of openings 22 of the battery holder 20; a second elastic clamping member 60 surrounding all of the first elastic clamping members 50; and a plurality of temperature sensors 30 provided corresponding to the respective first elastic clamping members 50. In addition, the sensor body 31 of each temperature sensor 30 is mounted on the respective corresponding first elastic clamping member 50.

[0086] ·First Elastic Clamping Member

[0087] The first elastic clamping member 50 of the second embodiment is provided corresponding to the plurality of openings 22 of the battery holder 20. More specifically, it is provided along the direction (positive Y-axis direction) in which the batteries 10 are arranged corresponding to the plurality of openings 22. In Figure 4B the example shown, five openings 22 are provided corresponding to all of the five housing portions 21. In addition, the sensor body 31 of the above-described temperature sensor 30 is mounted on each first elastic clamping member 50.

[0088] ·Second Elastic Clamping Member

[0089] The second elastic clamping member 60 of the second embodiment has fastening areas 43 for screw fastening at positions corresponding to the four corners of the circuit board 40. That is, as Figure 4C shown, the second elastic clamping member 60 is formed in a frame shape with fastening areas 43 at the four corners. It should be noted that the "frame shape" mentioned in this specification refers to the shape of a frame (framework) that at least surrounds all the openings 22 of the battery holder 20.

[0090] Here, with reference to Figure 5A and Figure 5B the fastening area 43 of this embodiment will be described in detail. Assume that, as Figure 5B shown, if no fastening area is provided on the circuit board 40 and screw fastening is performed inside the second elastic clamping member 60 (i.e., inside the frame), the second elastic clamping member 60 is subjected to stress during screw fastening. In order to reduce this stress during screw fastening, it is necessary to enlarge the circuit board 40 and the battery holder 20. However, in this embodiment, as Figure 5A shown, since the circuit board 40 and the battery holder 20 can be screw-fastened through the fastening areas 43 provided on the outside of the second elastic clamping member 60 (i.e., outside the frame), compared with the example shown in Figure 5B the circuit board 40 and the battery holder 20 can be miniaturized.

[0091] -The third embodiment of the battery module of the present disclosure-

[0092] With reference to Figure 6A and Figure 6B the third embodiment of the battery module of the present disclosure will be described. The difference between the third embodiment and the above-described embodiments is that a third elastic clamping member 70 is provided on the battery module. Regarding other structures, they are basically the same as those of the above-described embodiments. Hereinafter, this different structure will be described.

[0093] ·The third elastic clamping member

[0094] The battery module 1 of the third embodiment includes a third elastic clamping member 70. The third elastic clamping member 70 is interposed between the lead 32 and the circuit board 40, and separates the portion of the lead 32 other than the connection portion with the circuit board 40 from the circuit board 40. It should be noted that the "separating the portion of the lead 32 other than the connection portion with the circuit board 40 from the circuit board 40" mentioned in this specification means that in the portion of the lead 32 other than the end in contact with the circuit board 40, the lead 32 does not contact the circuit board 40.

[0095] In order to reduce the heat conduction to the lead wire 32, the third elastic clamping member 70 may be made of a heat-insulating material. That is, a resin material with a low thermal conductivity may be used. For example, similar to the first elastic clamping member 50 and the second elastic clamping member 60, a flame-retardant PP (polypropylene), PE (polyethylene), polyolefin, or polyurethane foam may also be used. It should be noted that a heat-insulating resin other than the above materials may also be used. In addition, a material different from that of the first elastic clamping member 50 and the second elastic clamping member 60 may also be used.

[0096] The third elastic clamping member 70 may be disposed in the region between the first elastic clamping member 50 and the second elastic clamping member 60. In addition, the third elastic clamping member 70 may also be disposed on the side in the extending direction of the lead wire 32 of the temperature sensor 30 with respect to the first elastic clamping member 50. Specifically, in Figure 6A and Figure 6B example, the third elastic clamping member 70 may be disposed on the X-axis (negative direction) side with respect to the first elastic clamping member.

[0097] According to the battery module 1 of the third embodiment, the third elastic clamping member 70 is interposed between the lead wire 32 and the circuit board 40, separating the portion of the lead wire 32 other than the connection portion with the circuit board 40 from the circuit board 40. Therefore, it is in a state with a relatively low temperature compared to the battery temperature as the heating element, and it is possible to further reduce the heat transfer from the circuit board 40 or the battery holder 20 having a large heat capacity and heat conduction to the temperature sensor 30. Therefore, more accurate measurement of the battery temperature can be performed. It should be noted that in this embodiment, the first elastic clamping member 50 and the third elastic clamping member 70 are described as different components, but the first elastic clamping member 50 may also have the functions and structures of the third elastic clamping member 70.

[0098] It should be noted that the embodiments disclosed this time are examples in all aspects and are not a basis for restrictive interpretation. Therefore, the technical scope of the present disclosure is not defined only by the above embodiments, but is defined based on the description in the claims. In addition, the technical scope of the present disclosure includes all changes within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

[0099] The battery module of the present disclosure includes the following aspects.

[0100] <1> A battery module, comprising:

[0101] A battery:

[0102] A battery holder that houses the battery and has an opening that exposes a part of the battery;

[0103] A temperature sensor that contacts a portion of the battery exposed from the opening;

[0104] A circuit board;

[0105] A first elastic clamping member interposed between the temperature sensor and the circuit board; and

[0106] A second elastic clamping member interposed between the circuit board and the battery holder and surrounding the periphery of the opening.

[0107] <2> The battery module according to <1>,

[0108] The first elastic clamping member is a foam having continuous bubbles.

[0109] <3> The battery module according to <1> or <2>,

[0110] The first elastic clamping member is clamped between the circuit board and the temperature sensor.

[0111] <4> The battery module according to any one of <1> to <3>,

[0112] The second elastic clamping member is clamped between the circuit board and the battery holder.

[0113] <5> The battery module according to any one of <1> to <4>,

[0114] The second elastic clamping member is a foam having independent bubbles or a foam having both independent bubbles and continuous bubbles.

[0115] <6> The battery module according to any one of <1> to <5>,

[0116] The first elastic clamping member is harder than the second elastic clamping member.

[0117] <7> The battery module according to <6>,

[0118] The 50% compression hardness of the first elastic clamping member is 3 to 10 N / cm 2 , and the 70% compression hardness is 7 to 20 N / cm 2 ,

[0119] The 50% compression hardness of the second elastic clamping member is 0.2 to 1.0 N / cm 2 , and the 70% compression hardness is 1 to 3 N / cm 2 .

[0120] <8> The battery module according to any one of <1> to <7>,

[0121] The temperature sensor has a sensor body and a lead wire connecting the sensor body and the circuit board.

[0122] The sensor body and the lead wire are arranged at positions separated from the battery holder.

[0123] <9> According to the battery module described in <8>,

[0124] The battery module is provided with a third elastic clamping member, which is interposed between the lead wire and the circuit board and separates a portion of the lead wire other than the connection portion with the circuit board from the circuit board.

[0125] <10> A battery module, comprising:

[0126] A plurality of batteries;

[0127] A plurality of temperature sensors, in contact with a part of the respective corresponding batteries;

[0128] A circuit board;

[0129] A battery holder, which houses a plurality of the batteries and has a plurality of openings for exposing a part of the respective corresponding batteries;

[0130] A plurality of first elastic clamping members, which press the respective corresponding temperature sensors; and

[0131] A second elastic clamping member, which is arranged so as to surround all of the openings and suppresses water from entering all of the openings,

[0132] Each of the first elastic clamping members is clamped by the circuit board and the respective corresponding temperature sensor,

[0133] The second elastic clamping member is clamped by the circuit board and the battery holder.

[0134] Industrial applicability

[0135] The present disclosure can be applied to a battery module capable of accurately measuring the temperature of a battery pack.

[0136] Description of reference numerals

[0137] 1: Battery module; 10: Battery; 20: Battery holder; 21: Receiving portion; 22: Opening; 23: Screw fixing portion; 30: Temperature sensor; 31: Sensor body; 32: Lead wire; 40: Circuit board; 41: Outer surface; 42: Inner surface; 43: Fastening area; 50: First elastic clamping member; 60: Second elastic clamping member; 70: Third elastic clamping member.

Claims

1. A battery module, comprising: A battery; A battery holder that houses the battery and has an opening for exposing a part of the battery; A temperature sensor that contacts the part of the battery exposed from the opening; A circuit board; A first elastic clamping member interposed between the temperature sensor and the circuit board; And A second elastic clamping member interposed between the circuit board and the battery holder and surrounding the periphery of the opening.

2. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein The first elastic clamping member is a foam having continuous bubbles.

3. The battery module according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The first elastic clamping member is clamped between the circuit board and the temperature sensor.

4. The battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The second elastic clamping member is clamped between the circuit board and the battery holder.

5. The battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein The second elastic clamping member is a foam having independent bubbles or a foam having both independent bubbles and continuous bubbles.

6. The battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein The first elastic clamping member is harder than the second elastic clamping member.

7. The battery module according to claim 6, wherein The 50% compression hardness of the first elastic clamping component is 3 to 10 N / cm 2 , and the 70% compression hardness is 7 to 20 N / cm 2 , The 50% compression hardness of the second elastic clamping component is 0.2 to 1.0 N / cm 2 , and the 70% compression hardness is 1 to 3 N / cm 2 .

8. The battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein The temperature sensor has a sensor body and a lead connecting the sensor body and the circuit board, The sensor body and the lead are disposed at a position separated from the battery holder.

9. The battery module according to claim 8, wherein The battery module includes a third elastic clamping member that is interposed between the lead and the circuit board and separates a portion of the lead other than the connection portion with the circuit board from the circuit board.

10. A battery module, comprising: A plurality of batteries; A plurality of temperature sensors that contact a part of their respective corresponding batteries; A circuit board; A battery holder that houses the plurality of batteries and has a plurality of openings for exposing a part of their respective corresponding batteries; A plurality of first elastic clamping members that press their respective corresponding temperature sensors; And A second elastic clamping member that is disposed so as to surround all of the openings and inhibits water from entering all of the openings, Each of the first elastic clamping members is clamped by the circuit board and its respective corresponding temperature sensor, The second elastic clamping member is clamped by the circuit board and the battery holder.

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