Electricity storage device

Abstract

A power storage device includes a first power storage module and a second power storage module arranged in a first direction, and a first cooler positioned between the first power storage module and the second power storage module. Each of the first power storage module and the second power storage module has a first target member only on one of both end portions in the first direction, and is provided such that the end portion on which the first target member is provided faces the opposite side from the first cooler.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a power storage device including a plurality of power storage modules. Background Art

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-073552 discloses a power storage device including multiple power storage modules and a cooler disposed between the modules. In this power storage device, an elastic member presses the cooler toward one of two power storage modules located on either side of the cooler. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In the power storage device described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2018-073552, the cooler cools only a single power storage module (the power storage module pressed by the elastic member). For power storage devices with multiple power storage modules, there is room for improvement in cooling efficiency.

[0004] The present disclosure has been made to solve the above-mentioned problem, and an object of the present disclosure is to efficiently and appropriately cool a power storage device including a plurality of power storage modules.

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a power storage device described below.

[0006] (Item 1) The power storage device includes a first power storage module and a second power storage module arranged in a first direction, and a first cooler positioned between the first power storage module and the second power storage module. The first power storage module and the second power storage module each include a first mating component only at one of their ends in the first direction, and are arranged such that the end provided with the first mating component faces a side opposite to the first cooler.

[0007] As described above, by placing a single cooler (first cooler) between multiple power storage modules (a first power storage module and a second power storage module), the power storage device can be efficiently cooled. Furthermore, by arranging the first target components of each of the first power storage module and the second power storage module away from the first cooler, overcooling of these first target components by the first cooler can be suppressed. Therefore, according to the above configuration, a power storage device including multiple power storage modules can be efficiently and appropriately cooled. The first target component may also be a component that is susceptible to adverse conditions due to overcooling.

[0008] (Item 2) In the power storage device described in Item 1, the first target component included in the first power storage module includes at least one of an exhaust valve of the first power storage module, a positive electrode terminal of the first power storage module, and a negative electrode terminal of the first power storage module. The first target component included in the second power storage module includes at least one of an exhaust valve of the second power storage module, a positive electrode terminal of the second power storage module, and a negative electrode terminal of the second power storage module.

[0009] The exhaust valve, positive electrode terminal, and negative electrode terminal may be damaged by overcooling. For example, condensation caused by overcooling may cause damage. According to the above configuration, overcooling of at least one of the exhaust valve, positive electrode terminal, and negative electrode terminal can be suppressed.

[0010] (Item 3) In the power storage device according to Item 1 or 2, the first power storage module and the second power storage module have the same configuration (same configuration).

[0011] By using multiple storage modules with the same structure, the storage device can be manufactured more easily. Furthermore, the first and second storage modules are cooled uniformly by the first cooler. This reduces performance variations in the storage modules caused by temperature distribution variations. By rotating one of the two storage modules with the same structure 180 degrees relative to the other, the first target component of each storage module can be positioned away from the first cooler.

[0012] (Item 4) In the power storage device according to any one of Items 1 to 3, a first heat conductive material is provided between the first power storage module and the first cooler in the first direction. A second heat conductive material is provided between the second power storage module and the first cooler in the first direction.

[0013] The above configuration improves thermal conductivity between the first and second power storage modules and the first cooler. The thermally conductive material, for example, has a higher thermal conductivity than air (air gap). The first and second thermally conductive materials can be made of the same material or different materials.

[0014] (Item 5) The power storage device according to any one of Items 1 to 4 further includes a first bracket. The first power storage module and the second power storage module are each fixed to the first bracket.

[0015] As described above, by fixing the first electricity storage module and the second electricity storage module to the common bracket (first bracket), it is easy to arrange the first electricity storage module and the second electricity storage module at predetermined positions.

[0016] (Item 6) In the power storage device described in Item 5, the first cooler and the first bracket are arranged side by side in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. A recessed portion for receiving the first bracket is formed on an end surface in the second direction of each of the first power storage module and the second power storage module.

[0017] By forming the above-described recessed portion, it is easy to assemble the first power storage module and the second power storage module to the first bracket.

[0018] (Item 7) In the power storage device described in Item 6, a portion of the first bracket that enters the recess is formed with an internal thread that penetrates the portion in the first direction. A first bolt that securely connects the first power storage module to the first bracket is threadedly engaged with the internal thread. A second bolt that secures the second power storage module to the first bracket is threadedly engaged with the internal thread.

[0019] According to the above configuration, the first power storage module and the second power storage module can be easily fastened to the first bracket from both sides of the first bracket in the first direction.

[0020] (Item 8) In the power storage device described in Item 7, a first step is formed on an end surface of the first power storage module on the side opposite to the first cooler in the first direction. The first bolt passes through a portion of the first power storage module thinned by the first step. A second step is formed on an end surface of the second power storage module on the side opposite to the first cooler in the first direction. The second bolt passes through a portion of the second power storage module thinned by the second step.

[0021] According to the above configuration, short bolts can be easily used as the first and second bolts. In addition, by fastening the first and second power storage modules to the first bracket with short bolts, the fastening is unlikely to loosen.

[0022] (Item 9) In the power storage device according to any one of Items 1 to 8, a paste-like heat conductive material is applied to both end surfaces of the first cooler located at the end portion in the first direction.

[0023] With this configuration, thermal conductivity between the first and second energy storage modules and the first cooler is improved. Furthermore, when the configuration of item 9 is applied to the energy storage device described in item 7 or 8, the thickness of the heat conductive material can be easily managed. By fastening the first and second energy storage modules to the first bracket from both sides in the first direction, the thickness of the heat conductive material can be easily uniformed on both end surfaces.

[0024] (Item 10) The power storage device according to any one of Items 5 to 9 further includes a cross member, wherein the first bracket is fastened to the cross member.

[0025] The above configuration makes it easier to stabilize the first bracket. Furthermore, because the first bracket is stable, positional misalignment of the first and second storage modules is less likely to occur. A cross member is a component that forms the skeleton of a storage device or a product (such as a vehicle) equipped with a storage device. The cross member can form the battery pack housing or a cross member in the vehicle's floor. The cross member can also function as an EA (energy absorption) material.

[0026] (Item 11) In the power storage device according to any one of Items 5 to 10, the first cooler includes a first cooling port through which refrigerant flows into the first cooler and a second cooling port through which refrigerant flows out of the first cooler. At least one of the first cooling port and the second cooling port is arranged so that displacement in the first direction is suppressed by the first bracket.

[0027] According to the above configuration, the first bracket suppresses displacement of the cooling port (at least one of the first cooling port and the second cooling port), thereby preventing damage to the cooling port due to external force.

[0028] (Item 12) In the power storage device according to Item 11, the first cooler further includes a port support portion that supports the first cooling port or the second cooling port.

[0029] According to the above configuration, the cooling port (the first cooling port or the second cooling port) is supported by the first cooler, thereby eliminating the need for separately preparing a member for supporting the cooling port.

[0030] (Item 13) The power storage device according to Item 12 further includes a cross member, and the port support portion is provided so as to overlap with the cross member in the first direction.

[0031] As described above, by providing the port support portion at the portion where the highly rigid cross member is provided, the rigidity of the periphery of the port support portion is enhanced.

[0032] (Item 14) The power storage device described in Item 13 further includes: a third power storage module and a fourth power storage module arranged in a first direction; a second cooler configured to cool the third power storage module and the fourth power storage module; and a second bracket for holding the third power storage module and the fourth power storage module. At least a portion of the second cooler is located between the third power storage module and the fourth power storage module in the first direction. The first power storage module and the third power storage module are arranged so as to be aligned in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. The second power storage module and the fourth power storage module are arranged so as to be aligned in the second direction. A port support portion protrudes from between the first power storage module and the second power storage module toward the second cooler. The first cooling port or the second cooling port supported by the port support portion is located between the first power storage module and the third power storage module. The port support portion is arranged so that displacement in the first direction is suppressed by the first bracket and the second bracket.

[0033] According to the above configuration, a cooling port (the first cooling port or the second cooling port) is arranged between the first and third energy storage modules. This facilitates assembly of the piping (refrigerant flow path) with respect to the cooling port (joint assembly). Furthermore, by suppressing displacement of the port support portion by the first and second brackets, damage to the port support portion caused by loads applied to the cooling port during joint assembly can be prevented. Alternatively, a dual support beam can be used to support the first and third energy storage module side portions of the port support portion.

[0034] (Item 15) In the storage device described in Item 14, the cross member has a portion located on the side of the second storage module opposite to the first cooler in the first direction, a portion protruding toward the port support portion between the second storage module and the fourth storage module, and a portion located on the side of the fourth storage module opposite to the second cooler in the first direction.

[0035] By effectively utilizing space as described above, it is easy to provide a power storage device that has excellent cooling properties and high volume energy density.

[0036] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided the following power storage device.

[0037] (Item 16) This power storage device includes: a first power storage module and a second power storage module arranged in a first direction; and a first cooler positioned between the first power storage module and the second power storage module. Each of the first power storage module and the second power storage module includes a second mating component only at one of its ends in the first direction, and the modules are arranged such that the end having the second mating component faces the first cooler.

[0038] As described above, by placing a single cooler (the first cooler) between multiple power storage modules (the first and second power storage modules), the power storage device can be efficiently cooled. Furthermore, by placing the second target components of each of the first and second power storage modules on the first cooler side, the first cooler can preferentially cool these second target components. Therefore, the above configuration enables efficient and appropriate cooling of a power storage device equipped with multiple power storage modules. The second target components can also be components that should be cooled preferentially.

[0039] (Item 17) In the power storage device described in Item 16, the second target component included in the first power storage module is a component that generates heat during charging or discharging of the first power storage module. The second target component included in the second power storage module is a component that generates heat during charging or discharging of the second power storage module.

[0040] According to the above configuration, it is possible to suppress an excessive increase in the temperature of a specific component (second target component) during charging or discharging of the power storage module.

[0041] (Item 18) The power storage device according to any one of Items 1 to 17 further includes: a third power storage module and a fourth power storage module arranged in a first direction; and a second cooler configured to cool the third power storage module and the fourth power storage module. At least a portion of the second cooler is located between the third power storage module and the fourth power storage module in the first direction. The first power storage module and the third power storage module are arranged so as to be aligned in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The second power storage module and the fourth power storage module are arranged so as to be aligned in the second direction. The first cooler includes a first cooling port for allowing refrigerant to flow into the first cooler and a second cooling port for allowing refrigerant to flow out of the first cooler. The second cooler includes a third cooling port for allowing refrigerant to flow into the second cooler and a fourth cooling port for allowing refrigerant to flow out of the second cooler. The first cooling port and the second cooling port are arranged so as to be aligned in a third direction perpendicular to both the first and second directions. The third cooling port and the fourth cooling port are arranged so as to be aligned in the third direction.

[0042] By effectively utilizing space as described above, it is easy to provide a power storage device that has excellent cooling properties and high volume energy density.

[0043] (Item 19) In the power storage device described in Item 18, the first cooling port and the third cooling port are connected to a common first flow path, and the second cooling port and the fourth cooling port are connected to a common second flow path.

[0044] With this configuration, refrigerant can be supplied from the first flow path to the first and second coolers, respectively, and refrigerants flowing out of the coolers can be combined and flowed into the second flow path. This configuration facilitates efficient and appropriate cooling of a power storage device including a large number of power storage modules.

[0045] As another embodiment, a vehicle including the power storage device according to any one of items 1 to 19 may be provided.

[0046] 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

[0047] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the interior of the power storage device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure as viewed from above.

[0048] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the interior of the power storage device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure as viewed from below.

[0049] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing a state where a heat conductive material is provided in the cooler according to the present embodiment.

[0050] Figure 4 It shows Figure 3 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a state of the cooler before a heat conductive material is provided.

[0051] Figure 5 It is a diagram for explaining the structure of the bracket according to this embodiment.

[0052] Figure 6 It is a diagram for explaining the configuration of the power storage module according to this embodiment.

[0053] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 Cross-sectional view at line VII-VII in FIG.

[0054] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 Cross-sectional view at line VIII-VIII in FIG.

[0055] Figure 9 It shows Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a diagram of the end portion of the power storage device on the -X side.

[0056] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing an example of a vehicle equipped with the power storage device according to the present embodiment.

[0057] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing a power storage device according to a first modification.

[0058] Figure 12 This is a diagram showing a power storage device according to a second modification. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0059] The embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the figures, the same or equivalent parts are marked with the same figure marks, and their descriptions are not repeated. In the figures used below, among the mutually orthogonal X-axis, Y-axis and Z-axis, the X-axis represents the first in-plane direction (for example, the length direction) of the storage device, the Y-axis represents the second in-plane direction (for example, the width direction) of the storage device, and the Z-axis represents the height direction of the storage device. Hereinafter, the directions indicated by the arrows of the X-axis, Y-axis and Z-axis are marked with "+" and the opposite directions are marked with "-".

[0060] Below, use Figure 1 and Figure 2 The schematic configuration of the power storage device according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the interior of the power storage device as viewed from the +Z side (upper side). Figure 1 In the example, the UPR (upper) housing is omitted. Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the interior of the power storage device as viewed from the -Z side (lower side). Figure 2In the figure, the LWR (lower) housing is omitted.

[0061] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The power storage device 100 of this embodiment is, for example, a battery pack. The power storage device 100 includes an LWR housing 110, cross members 121 to 124, and a UPR housing 130, which constitute the housing of the battery pack. The cross members 121 to 124 are each cross members formed in a long strip in the Y direction and fixed (for example, fastened) to the LWR housing 110. The cross members 121 to 124 can also be a plate-like member processed into an arbitrary shape (for example, a metal plate-like member bent into a U-shape). The cross members 121 to 124 are battery cross members that constitute the skeleton of the battery pack.

[0062] The power storage device 100 further includes power storage modules MA1 to MA9 , MB1 to MB9 , coolers CL1 to CL3 , and brackets BR1 to BR6 , which are housed in a case.

[0063] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, in the power storage device 100, 18 power storage modules are arranged in a matrix with three columns in the Y direction (1st Y column, 2nd Y column, 3rd Y column) and three columns in the X direction (1st X column, 2nd X column, 3rd X column) on the +Z side (upper) and -Z side (lower) of coolers CL1 to CL3.

[0064] The first Y column on the +Z side includes power storage modules MA1 to MA3 arranged in the Y direction. The first Y column on the -Z side includes power storage modules MB1 to MB3 arranged in the Y direction. The second Y column on the +Z side includes power storage modules MA4 to MA6 arranged in the Y direction. The second Y column on the -Z side includes power storage modules MB4 to MB6 arranged in the Y direction. The third Y column on the +Z side includes power storage modules MA7 to MA9 arranged in the Y direction. The third Y column on the -Z side includes power storage modules MB7 to MB9 arranged in the Y direction.

[0065] The 1X row on the +Z side includes power storage modules MA1, MA4, and MA7 arranged in the X direction. The 1X row on the -Z side includes power storage modules MB1, MB4, and MB7 arranged in the X direction. The 2X row on the +Z side includes power storage modules MA2, MA5, and MA8 arranged in the X direction. The 2X row on the -Z side includes power storage modules MB2, MB5, and MB8 arranged in the X direction. The 3X row on the +Z side includes power storage modules MA3, MA6, and MA9 arranged in the X direction. The 3X row on the -Z side includes power storage modules MB3, MB6, and MB9 arranged in the X direction.

[0066] The power storage modules MA1-MA9 and the power storage modules MB1-MB9 face each other in the Z direction. Coolers CL1-CL3 are plate-shaped in the XY plane and are arranged at the same position (height) in the Z direction. The power storage modules MA1-MA9 are located on the +Z side of coolers CL1-CL3. The power storage modules MB1-MB9 are located on the -Z side of coolers CL1-CL3. Cooler CL1 is configured to cool the power storage modules MA1-MA3 located on the +Z side of cooler CL1 and the power storage modules MB1-MB3 located on the -Z side of cooler CL1. Cooler CL2 is configured to cool the power storage modules MA4-MA6 located on the +Z side of cooler CL2 and the power storage modules MB4-MB6 located on the -Z side of cooler CL2. Cooler CL3 is configured to cool the power storage modules MA7-MA9 located on the +Z side of cooler CL3 and the power storage modules MB7-MB9 located on the -Z side of cooler CL3. The power storage modules MA1 to MA9 are connected to the power storage modules MB1 to MB9 via brackets BR1 to BR6 (see brackets described later). Figure 7 ).

[0067] Below, use Figures 3 to 6 , the structure of each cooler, each bracket and each power storage module is described in detail.

[0068] Figure 3 1 is a diagram showing a cooler having heat conducting materials provided on the front and back surfaces. In this embodiment, the coolers CL1 to CL3 have basically the same structure. Specifically, the coolers CL1 to CL3 are respectively Figure 3 By using the common cooler 20 to form the coolers CL1 to CL3, it is easy to control the temperature distribution of the power storage device 100. In addition, the power storage device 100 can be easily manufactured, and the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

[0069] The cooler 20 includes a plate-shaped main body 21, cooling ports 22a, 23a, a port support portion 22 that supports the cooling port 22a, and a port support portion 23 that supports the cooling port 23a. The main body 21 has, for example, a rectangular plate-shaped outer shape in the XY plane. The surface of the main body 21 may be flat or may be formed with ribs. The port support portions 22, 23 each protrude from the main body 21 toward the -X side. The cooling port 22a is a port (refrigerant outlet) for the refrigerant to flow out of the cooler 20. The port support portion 22 is located at a position closer to the +Y side than the center of the main body 21 in the Y direction. The cooling port 23a is a port (refrigerant inlet) for the refrigerant to flow into the cooler 20. The port support portion 23 is located at a position closer to the -Y side than the center of the main body 21 in the Y direction. The cooler 20 may also be formed of metal (e.g., aluminum). The cooler 20 may be an integrally molded product or a composite body of a plurality of separately molded parts (the main body 21 and the port support parts 22 and 23 ).

[0070] Thermally conductive materials 41, 42, and 43 are provided on the +Z-side end surface (top surface) of the main body 21 (see the "Diagram Viewed from the +Z Side"). Thermally conductive materials 44, 45, and 46 are provided on the -Z-side end surface (bottom surface) of the main body 21 (see the "Diagram Viewed from the -Z Side"). The main body 21 includes a first portion located between the +Z-side and -Z-side storage modules included in the 1X column, a second portion located between the +Z-side and -Z-side storage modules included in the 2X column, and a third portion located between the +Z-side and -Z-side storage modules included in the 3X column. Thermally conductive materials 41 and 44 are each formed to a thickness sufficient to fill the gap between the first portion of the main body 21 and the storage modules. Thermally conductive materials 42 and 45 are each formed to a thickness sufficient to fill the gap between the second portion of the main body 21 and the storage modules. Each of the heat-conductive materials 43 and 46 is formed to a thickness sufficient to fill the gap between the third portion of the main body 21 and the battery module. Heat-conductive materials 41-46 each comprise a material with a higher thermal conductivity than air and exhibit higher thermal conductivity than air (air gaps). Providing the heat-conductive material between the battery module and the cooler 20 in the Z direction improves thermal conductivity between the battery module and the cooler 20. In this embodiment, heat-conductive materials 41-46 are made of the same material. However, this is not limiting and heat-conductive materials 41-46 may also be made of different materials.

[0071] As described above, heat conductive materials are provided on both end surfaces of the cooler 20 at the end portions in the Z direction. Figure 4 2 is a diagram showing the cooler 20 before the heat conductive material is provided. Figure 4 As shown, the paste-like heat conductive material is applied to the cooler 20. Specifically, Figure 3The heat conductive materials 41 and 44 shown are applied to the +Z side and the −Z side of the first portion P21 of the main body 21 , respectively. Figure 3 The heat conductive materials 42 and 45 shown are applied to the +Z side and the −Z side of the second portion P22 of the main body 21 , respectively. Figure 3 The heat conductive materials 43 and 46 shown are applied to the +Z side and the −Z side of the third portion P23 of the main body 21 , respectively.

[0072] In this embodiment, thermally conductive materials 41-46 each comprise a paste-like silicone material. However, this is not limiting, and the materials of thermally conductive materials 41-46 can be any material. For example, thermally conductive materials 41-46 can each be a non-silicone material (e.g., liquid sodium or thermal grease). Other materials used in well-known TIM (Thermal Interface Material) can also be used as the materials of thermally conductive materials 41-46.

[0073] like Figure 1 As shown, the -X-side end of each storage module included in the 1Y column is connected to bracket BR1 and fixed to cross member 121 via bracket BR1. The +X-side end of each storage module included in the 1Y column is connected to bracket BR2 and fixed to cross member 122 via bracket BR2. The -X-side end of each storage module included in the 2Y column is connected to bracket BR3 and fixed to cross member 122 via bracket BR3. The +X-side end of each storage module included in the 2Y column is connected to bracket BR4 and fixed to cross member 123 via bracket BR4. The -X-side end of each storage module included in the 3Y column is connected to bracket BR5 and fixed to cross member 123 via bracket BR5. The +X-side end of each storage module included in the 3Y column is connected to bracket BR6 and fixed to cross member 124 via bracket BR6.

[0074] In this embodiment, brackets BR1 to BR6 have essentially the same structure. By making brackets BR1 to BR6 identical, manufacturing of the power storage device 100 is simplified, reducing manufacturing costs. Brackets BR1 to BR6 are each formed, for example, from resin. However, the material of brackets BR1 to BR6 can be modified as appropriate. Each bracket can also be formed from metal.

[0075] Figure 5 It is a figure for explaining the structure of each bracket. Brackets BR1 to BR6 each have Figure 5The same structure as the bracket 30A or 30B shown. Bracket 30A has the same structure as bracket 30B, but one side is rotated 180° relative to the other side with the Z axis as the rotation axis. Brackets BR1, BR3, and BR5 are each configured in the same way as bracket 30A. Brackets BR2, BR4, and BR6 are each configured in the same way as bracket 30B. Brackets BR2 and BR3 are a pair of brackets opposite to each other in the X direction (first opposite brackets) and are fixed to a common cross member 122. Brackets BR4 and BR5 are a pair of brackets opposite to each other in the X direction (second opposite brackets) and are fixed to a common cross member 123. The first and second opposite brackets are each Figure 5 The opposing brackets shown (brackets 30A and 30B) are similarly configured.

[0076] Each bracket 30A and 30B is formed elongated in the Y direction. More specifically, each bracket 30A and 30B includes retaining portions 31 to 33 for retaining the battery modules, a connecting portion 34 connecting retaining portions 31 and 32 in the Y direction, and a connecting portion 35 connecting retaining portions 32 and 33 in the Y direction. Retaining portion 31 includes fastening portions 31a and 31b, and a beam portion 31c in the Y direction connecting fastening portions 31a and 31b. Retaining portion 32 includes fastening portions 32a and 32b, and a beam portion 32c in the Y direction connecting fastening portions 32a and 32b. Retaining portion 33 includes fastening portions 33a and 33b, and a beam portion 33c in the Y direction connecting fastening portions 33a and 33b.

[0077] The fastening connection parts 31a, 31b, 32a, 32b, 33a, and 33b each include a base end portion located near the battery module (on the +Y side or -Y side of the beam portion), and a protrusion protruding from the base end portion toward a side away from the battery module. A hole h1 for fastening the battery module is formed at the base end portion. A hole h2 for fastening the cross member is formed at the protrusion portion. Both holes h1 and h2 pass through the bracket in the Z direction. However, hole h1 is an internal thread formed on the base material (bracket), and thread teeth are formed on the inner surface of hole h1. On the other hand, thread teeth are not formed on the inner surface of hole h2, and a nut (described later) is prepared on the bracket. Figure 7 The nut B22 in the figure is used as the internal thread.

[0078] The six holes h1 formed in the base end of bracket 30A are aligned in the Y direction. The six holes h1 formed in the base end of bracket 30B are aligned in the Y direction. The base end of bracket 30A (six holes h1) and the base end of bracket 30B (six holes h1) are arranged at a predetermined interval in the X direction.

[0079] The protrusion of bracket 30A and the protrusion of bracket 30B are arranged so as to be staggered (offset) by a predetermined amount in the Y direction. The fastening portion 32a of bracket 30A is arranged so that its protrusion enters between the retaining portions 32 and 33 of bracket 30B. The fastening portion 33a of bracket 30A is arranged so that its protrusion enters between the retaining portions 31 and 32 of bracket 30B. Furthermore, the fastening portion 32a of bracket 30B is arranged so that its protrusion enters between the retaining portions 32 and 33 of bracket 30A. The fastening portion 33a of bracket 30B is arranged so that its protrusion enters between the retaining portions 31 and 32 of bracket 30A. The six holes h2 formed in bracket 30A and the six holes h2 formed in bracket 30B (a total of 12 holes h2) are arranged in the Y direction.

[0080] In this embodiment, the power storage modules MA1 to MA9 and MB1 to MB9 have basically the same configuration. Specifically, the power storage modules MA1 to MA9 and MB1 to MB9 are respectively Figure 6 The power storage module (hereinafter referred to as "MDL") 10 is shown. By forming the power storage modules MA1 to MA9 and MB1 to MB9 using the common MDL 10, the power storage device 100 can be manufactured more easily and the manufacturing cost can be reduced. Figure 6 It is a diagram for explaining the configuration of each power storage module.

[0081] MDL10 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape. MDL10 has faces F1 and F2 that face each other in the Z direction, faces F3 and F4 that face each other in the Y direction, and faces F5 and F6 that face each other in the X direction. Steps S1 to S8 are formed at the eight corners of MDL10. Step S1 is located at the corner where faces F1, F3, and F6 intersect. Step S2 is located at the corner where faces F1, F4, and F6 intersect. Step S3 is located at the corner where faces F1, F3, and F5 intersect. Step S4 is located at the corner where faces F1, F4, and F5 intersect. Step S5 is located at the corner where faces F2, F3, and F6 intersect. Step S6 is located at the corner where faces F2, F4, and F6 intersect. Step S7 is located at the corner where faces F2, F3, and F5 intersect. Step S8 is located at the corner where faces F2, F4, and F5 intersect.

[0082] Holes h3 are formed on the steps S1 to S4, respectively, which penetrate the MDL 10 in the Z direction. The hole h3 formed on the step S1 reaches the step S5 on the opposite side of the step S1. The hole h3 formed on the step S2 reaches the step S6 on the opposite side of the step S2. The hole h3 formed on the step S3 reaches the step S7 on the opposite side of the step S3. The hole h3 formed on the step S4 reaches the step S8 on the opposite side of the step S4. No thread is formed on the inner surface of the hole h3. The aforementioned hole h1 ( Figure 5) functions as an internal thread for the bolt (external thread) in through-hole h3. The diameter of hole h3 is the same as or larger than that of hole h1. A recess (countersunk hole, countersunk hole) for accommodating a bolt head or washer may also be formed near hole h3 in steps S1 to S8.

[0083] MDL10 is configured to be able to store electricity. Specifically, MDL10 includes a storage unit (not shown) for storing electricity. The storage unit of MDL10 may also include, for example, a secondary battery such as a lithium-ion battery, a nickel-metal hydride battery, or a sodium-ion battery. As examples of lithium-ion batteries, there can be cited an LFP battery using lithium iron phosphate as a positive electrode active material, or a ternary battery using NMC (nickel, manganese, cobalt) as a positive electrode active material. The type of secondary battery may be either a liquid secondary battery or an all-solid-state secondary battery. The number of secondary batteries included in MDL10 may be one or more. The storage unit of MDL10 may also include a battery pack formed by electrically connecting multiple secondary batteries (storage cells). The storage unit of MDL10 may include only the same type of storage cells (for example, ternary batteries) or different types of storage cells (for example, LFP batteries and ternary batteries). The storage cell may also be a laminated storage cell having one or more windings.

[0084] The end portion of the MDL 10 on the side of surface F1 also includes a positive terminal 11, a negative terminal 12, and an exhaust device 13. The positive terminal 11 and the negative terminal 12 are used to apply voltage to the storage unit of the MDL 10 or to extract electricity from the storage unit of the MDL 10. The MDL 10 can also be electrically connected to other devices (including other storage modules) via the positive terminal 11 and the negative terminal 12. The multiple MDLs 10 included in the storage device 100 can also be connected in series or in parallel. The storage device 100 can also be electrically connected to an external device that receives electricity from the storage device 100 via the positive terminal 11 and the negative terminal 12. The exhaust device 13 is configured to exhaust gas (for example, smoke) from the storage unit of the MDL 10. The exhaust device 13 includes, for example, an exhaust valve that opens when the internal pressure of the storage unit of the MDL 10 increases. The number of exhaust valves is arbitrary. For example, in an embodiment in which the MDL 10 includes multiple storage cells (secondary batteries), an exhaust valve can be provided for each storage cell. The exhaust device 13 may also include an exhaust path (such as a notch or a pipe) not shown in the figure. The smoke generated in the storage part of the MDL 10 can also be directed to the outside of the storage device 100 through the exhaust path. In the present embodiment, the positive terminal 11, the negative terminal 12 and the exhaust device 13 may also be provided at only one of the two end portions of the MDL 10 in the Z direction (the end portion on the side of the surface F1). In the present embodiment, the positive terminal 11, the negative terminal 12 and the exhaust device 13 each correspond to an example of the "first object component" of the present disclosure. In addition, the Z direction, the X direction and the Y direction respectively correspond to an example of the "first direction", "second direction" and "third direction" of the present disclosure.

[0085] In addition, the power storage module also has components other than the power storage unit (e.g., battery). Depending on the component, excessive cooling may cause adverse conditions. On the other hand, if the cooling capacity of the cooler is reduced to protect these components, it is possible that other parts of the power storage module (e.g., the power storage unit) cannot be sufficiently cooled. Therefore, in the power storage device 100 of this embodiment, multiple power storage modules are arranged in the orientation described below. As a result, the power storage device having multiple power storage modules can be cooled efficiently and appropriately.

[0086] like Figure 6 As shown, a portion of cooler CL2 (the first portion of the main body 21) is located between power storage modules MA4 and MB4 in the Z direction. A portion of cooler CL2 (the second portion of the main body 21) is located between power storage modules MA5 and MB5 in the Z direction. A portion of cooler CL2 (the third portion of the main body 21) is located between power storage modules MA6 and MB6 in the Z direction.

[0087] The power storage modules MA4-MA6 and the power storage modules MB4-MB6 are arranged opposite each other with respect to the cooler CL2. Specifically, the MDL 10 constituting each power storage module MB4-MB6 is arranged 180 degrees with respect to the MDL 10 constituting each power storage module MA4-MA6, with the X axis serving as the rotation axis. Each power storage module MA4-MA6 is arranged with its surface F1 (the end portion where the first mating component is provided) facing the side opposite to the cooler CL2 (the +Z side). In other words, each power storage module MA4-MA6 is arranged with its surface F2 facing the cooler CL2 side (the -Z side). Heat conductive materials 41-43 are provided between the power storage modules MA4-MA6 and the cooler CL2 in the Z direction. Each power storage module MB4-MB6 is arranged with its surface F1 (the end portion where the first mating component is provided) facing the side opposite to the cooler CL2 (the -Z side). In other words, each power storage module MB4-MB6 is arranged with its surface F2 facing the cooler CL2 side (the +Z side). Heat conducting materials 44 to 46 ( Figure 3 The power storage modules MA4 to MA6 and MB4 to MB6 are each fixed to the bracket BR3.

[0088] Figure 6 Only the power storage modules MA4 to MA6 and MB4 to MB6 are shown as representatives, but the power storage modules MA1 to MA3 and MB1 to MB3 and the power storage modules MA7 to MA9 and MB7 to MB9 are also connected to the coolers CL1 and CL3, respectively. Figure 6 Configure as shown.

[0089] Figure 7 It shows Figure 1 The cross-sectional view at line VII-VII in FIG. Figure 1 as well as Figure 7 As shown, cooler CL2 and bracket BR3 are arranged side by side in the X direction. Furthermore, a recess R, into which a portion of bracket BR3 fits, is formed on the -X-side end surface (surface F6) of power storage module MA4 and the -X-side end surface (surface F6) of power storage module MB4. Specifically, recess R is formed by the -Z-side corner (step S6) of power storage module MA4 and the +Z-side corner (step S5) of power storage module MB4. Recess R opens toward the -X side.

[0090] In the portion of the bracket BR3 that enters the recess R ( Figure 5The base end portion of the fastening connection portion 31b shown in the figure is formed with a hole h1 (internal thread) that passes through the portion in the Z direction. In the XY plane, the hole h3 (step S2) of the storage module MA4, the hole h3 (step S1) of the storage module MB4, and the hole h1 of the bracket BR3 are arranged at the same position. The bolt B11 (first bolt) is inserted from the +Z side into the hole h3 that passes through the storage module MA4 from step S2 to step S6, passes through the hole h3, and screws into the hole h1. The bolt B11 fastens the storage module MA4 to the bracket BR3. In addition, the bolt B12 (second bolt) is inserted from the -Z side into the hole h3 that passes through the storage module MB4 from step S1 to step S5, passes through the hole h3, and screws into the hole h1. The bolt B12 fastens the storage module MB4 to the bracket BR3.

[0091] A step S2 (first step) is formed on the surface F1 of the storage module MA4 (the end surface on the side opposite to the cooler CL2 in the Z direction). Furthermore, a bolt B11 penetrates the portion of the storage module MA4 where the thickness is reduced due to the step S2. Furthermore, a step S1 (second step) is formed on the surface F1 of the storage module MB4 (the end surface on the side opposite to the cooler CL2 in the Z direction). Furthermore, a bolt B12 penetrates the portion of the storage module MB4 where the thickness is reduced due to the step S1. This configuration makes it easy to use short bolts as the bolts B11 and B12. By using short bolts for tightening, the tightening connection becomes less likely to loosen.

[0092] In this embodiment, a paste-like heat conductive material (see FIG. 1 ) is applied to both end surfaces of the cooler CL2 located in the Z direction. Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 ). A heat conductive material 41 (first heat conductive material) is provided between the surface F2 of the storage module MA4 and the cooler CL2. A heat conductive material 44 (second heat conductive material) is provided between the surface F2 of the storage module MB4 and the cooler CL2. Each storage module, each cooler and each bracket is a rigid component. In contrast, each heat conductive material is a flexible material. By screwing the bolts B11 and B12 into the seated position, the heat conductive materials 41 and 44 are compressed, and the thickness of the heat conductive materials 41 and 44 is adjusted to a predetermined thickness. The predetermined thickness is determined by the depth of the step S6 of the storage module MA4, the depth of the step S5 of the storage module MB4 and the thickness of the bracket BR3 in the Z direction. Therefore, it is easy to manage the thickness of the heat conductive materials 41 and 44 provided on both sides of the cooler CL2. Furthermore, by fastening the power storage modules MA4 and MB4 to the bracket BR3 from both sides in the Z direction of the bracket BR3 , it is easy to make the thicknesses of the heat conductive material 41 and the heat conductive material 44 uniform.

[0093] The bracket BR3 is fastened to the cross member 122 and fixed to the LWR housing 110 ( Figure 1 Specifically, in the cross member 122 (more specifically, Figure 8 In the XY plane, a hole h4 is formed on the bracket BR3 (more specifically, Figure 5 The hole h2 (shown as the protruding portion of the fastening portion 31b) and the hole h4 of the cross member 122 are located at the same position. A bolt B21 is inserted into the hole h2 from the +Z side, passes through the holes h2 and h4, and screws into a nut B22 (internal thread) located on the -Z side of the cross member 122. The bracket BR3 and the cross member 122 are sandwiched between the head of the bolt B21 and the nut B22.

[0094] exist Figure 7 In the figure, only the connection structure between the storage modules MA4 and MB4 and the bracket BR3 is shown as a representative example, but the bracket BR3 and the other storage modules (storage modules MA5, MB5, MA6, MB6) included in the 2Y column are also connected by the same structure. In addition, the connection structure between each storage module included in the 2Y column and the bracket BR4 is also the same. Figure 7 Furthermore, the connection structure between each storage module included in the 1st Y column and the brackets BR1 and BR2 and the connection structure between each storage module included in the 3rd Y column and the brackets BR5 and BR6 are also the same. Figure 7 The construction shown is the same.

[0095] Refer again Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 Brackets BR1 and BR2 are configured to hold storage modules MA1 to MA3 and MB1 to MB3, respectively. Cooler CL1 has a portion located between storage modules MA1 and MB1 in the Z direction, a portion located between storage modules MA2 and MB2 in the Z direction, and a portion located between storage modules MA3 and MB3 in the Z direction. Cooling port 22a ( Figure 3 ) is connected to the joint 74. The joint 74 is connected to the flow path 71 (e.g., piping) extending in the Y direction. The joint 74 is connected to the flow path 70 (e.g., piping) via the flow path 71. The flow path 70 is located closer to the +Y side than the 1st X column, and allows the refrigerant to flow in the X direction. The flow path 71 connects the joint 74 with the flow path 70, allowing the refrigerant flowing out of the cooling port 22a of the cooler CL1 to flow to the flow path 70. In addition, the cooling port 23a ( Figure 3) is connected to the connector 84. The connector 84 is connected to the flow path 81 (e.g., piping) extending along the Y direction. The connector 84 is connected to the flow path 80 (e.g., piping) via the flow path 81. The flow path 80 is located closer to the -Y side than the 3X column, so that the refrigerant flows along the X direction. The flow path 81 connects the connector 84 with the flow path 80, so that the refrigerant flowing in the flow path 80 flows into the cooling port 23a of the cooler CL1. In the cooler CL1, the direction in which the power storage modules MA1 to MA3 are arranged, the direction in which the power storage modules MB1 to MB3 are arranged, and the direction in which the cooling port 22a (connector 74) and the cooling port 23a (connector 84) are arranged are all in the Y direction, and are consistent.

[0096] Brackets BR3 and BR4 are configured to hold power storage modules MA4 to MA6 and MB4 to MB6, respectively. Cooler CL2 has a portion located between power storage modules MA4 and MB4 in the Z direction, a portion located between power storage modules MA5 and MB5 in the Z direction, and a portion located between power storage modules MA6 and MB6 in the Z direction. Cooling port 22a ( Figure 3 ) is connected to the joint 75. The joint 75 is connected to the flow path 72 (e.g., piping) extending along the Y direction. The joint 75 is connected to the flow path 70 via the flow path 72. The flow path 72 connects the joint 75 and the flow path 70, allowing the refrigerant flowing out of the cooling port 22a of the cooler CL2 to flow to the flow path 70. In addition, the cooling port 23a ( Figure 3 ) is connected to connector 85. Connector 85 is connected to flow path 82 (e.g., piping) extending along the Y direction. Connector 85 is connected to flow path 80 via flow path 82. Flow path 82 connects connector 85 with flow path 80, allowing the refrigerant flowing in flow path 80 to flow to cooling port 23a of cooler CL2. In cooler CL2, the directions in which the power storage modules MA4 to MA6 are arranged, the directions in which the power storage modules MB4 to MB6 are arranged, and the directions in which the cooling ports 22a (connector 75) and cooling ports 23a (connector 85) are arranged are all in the Y direction and coincide with each other.

[0097] Brackets BR5 and BR6 are configured to hold power storage modules MA7 to MA9 and MB7 to MB9, respectively. Cooler CL3 has a portion located between power storage modules MA7 and MB7 in the Z direction, a portion located between power storage modules MA8 and MB8 in the Z direction, and a portion located between power storage modules MA9 and MB9 in the Z direction. Cooling port 22a ( Figure 3) is connected to the joint 76. The joint 76 is connected to the flow path 73 (e.g., piping) extending in the Y direction. The joint 76 is connected to the flow path 70 via the flow path 73. The flow path 73 connects the joint 76 and the flow path 70, allowing the refrigerant flowing out of the cooling port 22a of the cooler CL3 to flow to the flow path 70. In addition, the cooling port 23a ( Figure 3 ) is connected to connector 86. Connector 86 is connected to flow path 83 (e.g., piping) extending along the Y direction. Connector 86 is connected to flow path 80 via flow path 83. Flow path 83 connects connector 86 with flow path 80, allowing the refrigerant flowing in flow path 80 to flow to cooling port 23a of cooler CL3. In cooler CL3, the directions in which the power storage modules MA7 to MA9 are arranged, the directions in which the power storage modules MB7 to MB9 are arranged, and the directions in which the cooling ports 22a (connector 76) and cooling ports 23a (connector 86) are arranged are all aligned in the Y direction.

[0098] As described above, the cooling port 23a of cooler CL1, the cooling port 23a of cooler CL2, and the cooling port 23a of cooler CL3 are connected to a common flow path 80 (first flow path). Furthermore, the cooling port 22a of cooler CL1, the cooling port 22a of cooler CL2, and the cooling port 22a of cooler CL3 are connected to a common flow path 70 (second flow path). In this embodiment, the cooling port 23a of cooler CL2, the cooling port 22a of cooler CL2, the cooling port 23a of cooler CL1, and the cooling port 22a of cooler CL1, respectively, correspond to examples of the "first cooling port," "second cooling port," "third cooling port," and "fourth cooling port" in this disclosure. Furthermore, the power storage modules MA4, MB4, MA1, and MB1, respectively, correspond to examples of the "first power storage module," "second power storage module," "third power storage module," and "fourth power storage module" in this disclosure. The cooler CL2 , the cooler CL1 , the bracket BR3 , and the bracket BR2 respectively correspond to examples of the “first cooler,” the “second cooler,” the “first bracket,” and the “second bracket” in the present disclosure.

[0099] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 The cross-sectional view at line VIII-VIII in FIG. Figure 1 as well as Figure 8As shown, the port support portion 22 of cooler CL2 is arranged to overlap with the cross member 122 in the Z direction. Specifically, the cross member 122 includes a portion 122a located on the -Z side of the battery module MB1 (the side opposite to the cooler CL1 in the Z direction), a portion 122b protruding toward the +Z side (the port support portion 22 side of the cooler CL2) between the battery module MB4 and the battery module MB1, and a portion 122c located on the -Z side of the battery module MB4 (the side opposite to the cooler CL2 in the Z direction). Thus, by providing the port support portion 22 in the portion where the highly rigid cross member 122 is provided, the rigidity of the periphery of the port support portion 22 is enhanced. Furthermore, the port support portion 22 has a hollow structure. The cavity formed within the port support portion 22 facilitates shock absorption.

[0100] The port support portion 22 of the cooler CL2 protrudes from between the power storage module MA4 and the power storage module MB4 toward the -X side (cooler CL1 side). The cooling port 22a of the cooler CL2 is located between the power storage module MA4 and the power storage module MA1. The cooling port 22a of the cooler CL2 is configured so that displacement in the Z direction (more specifically, displacement on the -Z side) is suppressed by the brackets BR2 and BR3. In this embodiment, the port support portion 22 of the cooler CL2 does not contact either the brackets BR2 or BR3. Figure 6 As shown, the beam portion 31c of the bracket BR3 is located near the -Z side of the port support portion 22 of the cooler CL2. Figure 5 ) is arranged at the same height (position in the Z direction) as the beam portion 31c of the bracket BR3. The beam portions 31c and 33c are each formed into a U-shape in the YZ plane (see Figure 6 ). When a force (load) on the -Z side is applied to the port support portion 22 of the cooler CL2 and the port support portion 22 is pressed toward the -Z side, the port support portion 22 contacts the brackets BR2 and BR3. The brackets BR2 and BR3 support the port support portion 22 in a double-support beam manner, thereby suppressing the displacement of the port support portion 22 and the cooling port 22a on the -Z side. Therefore, damage to the port support portion 22 and the cooling port 22a due to external forces can be suppressed. For example, deformation of the port support portion 22 due to the load applied to the cooling port 22a during joint assembly can be suppressed. In addition, the port support portion 22 of the cooler CL2 may also contact at least one of the brackets BR2 and BR3 in a state where no force is applied.

[0101] exist Figure 8In the figure, only the support structure of the cooling port 22a of the cooler CL2 is representatively shown, but the other cooling ports arranged between the storage modules (the cooling port 23a of the cooler CL2, the cooling port 22a of the cooler CL3, and the cooling port 23a of the cooler CL3) are also supported by the same structure.

[0102] Figure 9 is a diagram showing the end portion on the -X side of the power storage device 100. Figure 9 In order to be able to see the inside of the shell, part of the shell is omitted. Figure 1 as well as Figure 9 , a T-joint 70a connected to the flow paths 70 and 71 is provided at the end of the -X side of the flow path 70. The T-joint 70a has a first connection port in addition to the ports connected to the flow paths 70 and 71. In addition, a T-joint 80a connected to the flow paths 80 and 81 is provided at the end of the -X side of the flow path 80. The T-joint 80a has a second connection port in addition to the ports connected to the flow paths 80 and 81. By connecting the refrigerant circuit including the pump (for example, the refrigerant circuit described later) Figure 10 The refrigerant circuit C1 in the cooling system is connected to the first connection port (T-connector 70a) and the second connection port (T-connector 80a). Refrigerant can be supplied from flow path 80 to coolers CL1-CL3, respectively, so that the refrigerant flowing out of each cooler merges and flows into flow path 70. By circulating the refrigerant through coolers CL1-CL3 using a pump, the power storage modules MA1-MA9 and MB1-MB9 can be continuously cooled. The refrigerant can be either a liquid (e.g., water or antifreeze) or a gas (e.g., carbon dioxide).

[0103] exist Figure 9 In the figure, three patterns are illustrated for the refrigerant path formed in the main body 21 of each of the coolers CL1 to CL3. The refrigerant path is a path along which the refrigerant flows, and is formed inside the main body 21 of the cooler 20. The refrigerant flowing in the main body 21 of the cooler 20 performs heat exchange with each of the multiple power storage modules provided in the cooler 20. The refrigerant path is formed in such a manner that the refrigerant exchanges heat with the entire or most areas of the main body 21. In the first pattern, the flow path is formed in such a manner that the refrigerant moves back and forth along the X direction while moving toward the +Y side. In the second pattern, the flow path is formed in such a manner that the refrigerant moves back and forth along the Y direction while moving toward the +X side. In the third pattern, the flow path is formed in such a manner that the refrigerant flows toward the +Y side simultaneously in multiple branch paths. However, the refrigerant path in each cooler is not limited to these patterns and can be set arbitrarily.

[0104] The power storage device 100 having the above-described structure can be cooled efficiently and appropriately. Specifically, the coolers CL1 to CL3 are each configured to cool the power storage modules arranged on both sides in the Z direction. Therefore, it is easy to efficiently cool the power storage device 100 using the coolers CL1 to CL3. In addition, the power storage modules MA1 to MA9 and MB1 to MB9 are arranged so that the ends provided with the positive terminal 11, the negative terminal 12, and the exhaust device 13 face the side opposite to the cooler. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the positive terminal 11, the negative terminal 12, and the exhaust device 13 from being excessively cooled (and thus, any adverse conditions caused by condensation).

[0105] Such an electricity storage device 100 can be mounted on a mobile object, for example. Examples of mobile objects include automobiles (electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, etc.), vehicles other than automobiles (ships, aircraft, etc.), mobile machinery (agricultural machinery, construction machinery, etc.), and unmanned mobile objects (automatic guided vehicles, robots, etc.). However, the use of the electricity storage device is arbitrary and can also be stationary.

[0106] Figure 10 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a vehicle equipped with power storage device 100 . Figure 10 The vehicle 200 shown includes a power storage device 100. Figure 10 , vertical, front-back, and left-right directions are shown as being perpendicular to each other. "Down" corresponds to the vertical direction (the direction of gravity), and "up" corresponds to the opposite direction. For example, power storage device 100 is mounted on vehicle 200 with its -Z side facing downward and its -X side facing forward.

[0107] Vehicle 200 includes refrigerant circuits C1 and C2, a refrigerator 240, and a drive device 260. Refrigerant circuit C1 includes a pump 210, a heater 220, and a reservoir tank (R / T) 230. Pump 210 circulates refrigerant in refrigerant circuit C1. Heater 220 heats the refrigerant flowing through refrigerant circuit C1 in response to a request from a control device (e.g., an onboard computer) (not shown). The refrigerant flowing through refrigerant circuit C1 cools power storage device 100 when the temperature of power storage device 100 rises. However, if the temperature of power storage device 100 is low due to the influence of climate or location (e.g., a cold place), the temperature of power storage device 100 can be raised by the refrigerant heated by heater 220. Refrigerant circuit C2 includes a refrigeration cycle device 250. Refrigeration cycle device 250 includes various devices that adjust the temperature through a refrigeration cycle (i.e., a cycle of evaporation, compression, condensation, and expansion). The refrigeration circuit of the air conditioning system installed in vehicle 200 may also constitute refrigeration cycle device 250. The refrigerant flowing in refrigerant circuit C2 is cooled by refrigeration cycle device 250. Refrigeration machine 240 is connected to refrigerant circuits C1 and C2, and performs heat exchange between the refrigerant circulating in refrigerant circuit C1 and the refrigerant circulating in refrigerant circuit C2.

[0108] The vehicle 200 is, for example, an electric vehicle configured to travel using the power output from the power storage device 100. The drive device 260 generates power for driving the vehicle 200 using the power supplied from the power storage device 100. The drive device 260 includes, for example, a motor that rotates the drive wheels of the vehicle 200 and a PCU (Power Control Unit). The PCU is a circuit that uses the power from the power storage device 100 to drive the motor, and includes, for example, an inverter. The power storage device 100 may also be provided on the floor or under the floor of the vehicle 200. In addition, the power storage device 100 mounted on the vehicle 200 may also be changed to an unpacked structure. Instead of the cross members 121 to 124 (battery cross members) provided on the LWR housing 110, a cross member (floor cross member) provided on the floor panel of the vehicle 200 may be used. The cross member may also function as an EA material.

[0109] When the combination of a cooler and two storage modules cooled by the cooler is defined as one unit (hereinafter referred to as a "stacked unit"), the storage device 100 includes nine stacked units. In each stacked unit, the cooler is located between the two storage modules in the Z direction, and the two storage modules are each configured so that the end on the side of the surface F1 (the end provided with the first object component) faces the side opposite to the cooler. The number of stacked units in the storage device can be appropriately changed. The number of stacked units can be one, or more than two and less than eight, or more than ten and less than thirty, or more than thirty.

[0110] In power storage device 100, multiple stacked units are arranged in the X and Y directions. However, power storage device 100 does not include multiple stacked units arranged in the Z direction. However, this is not limiting; stacked units may be added in the Z direction to any stacked unit included in power storage device 100.

[0111] Figure 11 1 is a diagram showing a power storage device according to a first modification. Figure 11 The power storage device 100A includes a plurality of stacked units arranged in the Z direction. The stacked unit U1 corresponds to Figure 1 The stacked unit shown in FIG. 1 corresponds to a combination of the cooler CL2 and the power storage modules MA4 and MB4 cooled by the cooler CL2. The cooler CL2 has Figure 3 The structure shown. In the power storage device 100A, a separator 60 and a stacking unit U2 are added to the power storage device 100. The separator 60 is provided between the stacking unit U1 and the stacking unit U2 in the Z direction. The separator 60 can also function as an exhaust duct. The stacking unit U2 includes a cooler CL4 and power storage modules MC4 and MD4 cooled by the cooler CL4. The power storage modules MC4 and MD4 are each composed of, for example, Figure 6 The MDL10 shown is formed. The cooler CL4 has, for example, Figure 3 However, the structure of the cooler CL4 can be changed as appropriate.

[0112] exist Figure 11 In the illustrated power storage device 100A, a stacking unit is added to the +Z side of power storage module MA4 in the power storage device 100. A stacking unit may be similarly added to the +Z side of at least one of power storage modules MA1 to MA3 and MA5 to MA9 in the power storage device 100.

[0113] The structure of the stacking unit is not limited to the above. For example, in the stacking unit, each of the two power storage modules cooled by the cooler may have Figure 6 The MDL 10 shown has different configurations. Figure 12: is a diagram showing a power storage device according to a second modification. Figure 12 The power storage device 100B includes a stacked unit U3. The stacked unit U3 includes a cooler 20 and two power storage modules 10A cooled by the cooler 20. The cooler 20 is located between the two power storage modules 10A. The power storage module 10A includes a power storage unit P1 and a heat generating unit P2. The heat generating unit P2 includes a component (second target component) that generates heat during charging or discharging of the power storage module 10A. Examples of such components include a resistor through which current flows during charging or discharging of the power storage unit P1 and a circuit board used to control the charge and / or discharge of the power storage unit P1. In the stacked unit U3, the ends of the two power storage modules 10A cooled by the cooler 20 in the Z direction, where the heat generating unit P2 is located, are located on the cooler 20 side. By arranging the heat generating unit P2 of each power storage module on the cooler 20 side, the cooler 20 can preferentially cool the heat generating unit P2 of each power storage module. The power storage device 100B may also include multiple stacked units U3. For example, 9 stacking units U3 can also be Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 Configure as shown.

[0114] The configuration of each power storage module is not limited to Figure 6 The power storage modules MA1 to MA9 and MB1 to MB9 in the power storage device 100 may have different configurations. The configuration of each cooler is not limited to Figure 3 The configuration shown. The shape of each cooler can be changed appropriately. In the power storage device 100, the coolers CL1 to CL3 can also have different configurations. It is not necessary to provide a heat conductive material on the surface of the cooler, and the heat conductive material can also be omitted. The configuration of each bracket is not limited to Figure 5 The configuration shown. The shape of each bracket can be changed as appropriate. In the power storage device 100, the brackets BR1 to BR6 may have different configurations.

[0115] The various features related to the above-mentioned power storage device (the features described in the embodiment and the modified examples) may be arbitrarily combined and applied. The power storage device may also be applied to devices other than vehicles.

[0116] While the embodiments of the present invention have been described, the embodiments disclosed herein are to be construed as illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims and equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. A power storage device comprising: a first power storage module and a second power storage module arranged in a first direction; and a first cooler located between the first power storage module and the second power storage module; Each of the first and second electricity storage modules includes a first mating member at only one of both ends in the first direction, and is arranged such that the end provided with the first mating member faces the opposite side to the first cooler.

2. The power storage device according to claim 1, The first target component included in the first electricity storage module includes at least one of an exhaust valve of the first electricity storage module, a positive electrode terminal of the first electricity storage module, and a negative electrode terminal of the first electricity storage module. The first target component included in the second electricity storage module includes at least one of an exhaust valve of the second electricity storage module, a positive electrode terminal of the second electricity storage module, and a negative electrode terminal of the second electricity storage module.

3. The power storage device according to claim 1, The first electricity storage module and the second electricity storage module have the same structure.

4. The power storage device according to claim 1, A first heat conductive material is provided between the first power storage module and the first cooler in the first direction. A second heat conductive material is provided between the second power storage module and the first cooler in the first direction.

5. The power storage device according to claim 1, The power storage device further includes a first bracket. The first power storage module and the second power storage module are each fixed to the first bracket.

6. The power storage device according to claim 5, The first cooler and the first bracket are arranged so as to be aligned in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. A recessed portion into which the first bracket enters is formed on an end surface of each of the first power storage module and the second power storage module in the second direction.

7. The power storage device according to claim 6, An internal thread is formed on a portion of the first bracket that enters the recess and penetrates the portion in the first direction. The first bolt fastening the first power storage module to the first bracket is screwed into the internal thread. A second bolt fastening the second power storage module to the first bracket is screwed into the internal thread.

8. The power storage device according to claim 7, A first step is formed on an end surface of the first power storage module on the side opposite to the first cooler in the first direction. The first bolt passes through a portion of the first electricity storage module that is thinned by the first step. A second step is formed on an end surface of the second power storage module on the side opposite to the first cooler in the first direction. The second bolt passes through a portion of the second electricity storage module whose thickness is reduced due to the second step.

9. The power storage device according to claim 7, A paste-like heat-conductive material is applied to both end surfaces of the first cooler located at the end portion in the first direction.

10. The power storage device according to claim 5, The power storage device further includes a cross member, The first bracket is firmly connected to the cross member.

11. The power storage device according to claim 5, The first cooler includes a first cooling port for allowing the refrigerant to flow into the first cooler and a second cooling port for allowing the refrigerant to flow out of the first cooler. At least one of the first cooling port and the second cooling port is provided so that displacement in the first direction is suppressed by the first bracket.

12. The power storage device according to claim 11, The first cooler further includes a port support portion that supports the first cooling port or the second cooling port.

13. The power storage device according to claim 12, The power storage device further includes a cross member, The port support portion is provided so as to overlap with the cross member in the first direction.

14. The power storage device according to claim 13, The power storage device further comprises: a third power storage module and a fourth power storage module arranged in the first direction; a second cooler configured to cool the third power storage module and the fourth power storage module; and a second bracket for holding the third power storage module and the fourth power storage module; At least a portion of the second cooler is located between the third power storage module and the fourth power storage module in the first direction. The first power storage module and the third power storage module are arranged side by side in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The second power storage module and the fourth power storage module are arranged side by side in the second direction. The port support portion protrudes from between the first power storage module and the second power storage module toward the second cooler. The first cooling port or the second cooling port supported by the port support portion is located between the first power storage module and the third power storage module. The port support portion is provided so that displacement in the first direction is suppressed by the first bracket and the second bracket.

15. The power storage device according to claim 14, The cross member includes a portion located on the side of the second electricity storage module opposite to the first cooler in the first direction, a portion protruding toward the port support portion between the second electricity storage module and the fourth electricity storage module, and a portion located on the side of the fourth electricity storage module opposite to the second cooler in the first direction.

16. An electric storage device comprising: a first power storage module and a second power storage module arranged in a first direction; and a first cooler located between the first power storage module and the second power storage module; Each of the first and second electricity storage modules includes a second mating member at only one of both ends in the first direction, and is arranged so that the end provided with the second mating member faces the first cooler.

17. The power storage device according to claim 16, The second target component included in the first electricity storage module is a component that generates heat during charging or discharging of the first electricity storage module. The second target component included in the second electricity storage module is a component that generates heat during charging or discharging of the second electricity storage module.

18. The power storage device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, The power storage device further comprises: a third power storage module and a fourth power storage module arranged in the first direction; and a second cooler configured to cool the third power storage module and the fourth power storage module; At least a portion of the second cooler is located between the third power storage module and the fourth power storage module in the first direction. The first power storage module and the third power storage module are arranged side by side in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The second power storage module and the fourth power storage module are arranged side by side in the second direction. The first cooler includes a first cooling port for allowing the refrigerant to flow into the first cooler and a second cooling port for allowing the refrigerant to flow out of the first cooler. The second cooler includes a third cooling port for allowing the refrigerant to flow into the second cooler and a fourth cooling port for allowing the refrigerant to flow out of the second cooler. The first cooling port and the second cooling port are arranged so as to be aligned in a third direction perpendicular to both the first direction and the second direction. The third cooling port and the fourth cooling port are arranged so as to be aligned in the third direction.

19. The power storage device according to claim 18, The first cooling port and the third cooling port are connected to a common first flow path. The second cooling port and the fourth cooling port are connected to a common second flow path.

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