Electricity storage device

Abstract

A power storage device according to an embodiment of the present invention is provided with: a plurality of power storage elements arranged in a first direction and provided with a gas discharge valve facing a second direction; a pair of end members arranged on both sides of the plurality of power storage elements in the first direction; and a duct section overlapping the gas discharge valve in the second direction. The duct portion includes a duct portion main body extending in a first direction, a joint portion capable of releasing gas guided to one end portion of the duct portion main body in the first direction to another member, and an engagement portion disposed at the one end portion of the duct portion main body and engaged with the end member.

Description

[0001] Cross-references between related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-35321 and Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-35322, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to an electricity storage device including a plurality of electricity storage elements. Background Art

[0004] Conventionally, a battery assembly having a pipe is known (see Patent Document 1). Figure 35 As shown in FIG. 1 , a battery assembly 500 is configured such that a plurality of batteries 501 formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape are arranged and housed in an insulating box. The battery assembly 500 is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape as a whole.

[0005] In battery 501 , a positive electrode post 503 and a negative electrode post 504 protrude upward from a single electrode surface 502 . Electrode surface 502 of battery 501 forms part of the upper surface (cell upper surface) of battery assembly 500 .

[0006] A vent (pressure relief valve) (not shown) is provided on the electrode surface 502 of the battery 501, in the center between the positive electrode post 503 and the negative electrode post 504. This vent is formed so that the electrode surface 502 of the battery 501 is open, and this opening is partially sealed with a thin metal film or the like. Consequently, when gas is generated inside the battery 501 and the pressure within the battery 501 rises above a specified value, the metal film ruptures, allowing the gas to be discharged from the vent.

[0007] Two bus bar modules 505a and 505b are mounted on the upper surface of a single cell of battery assembly 500, with their longitudinal directions oriented in the direction of arrangement of batteries 501. Bus bar modules 505a and 505b are formed in a planar shape as a whole and are positioned on either side of duct 506, sandwiching the duct 506. These bus bar modules 505a and 505b are configured to retain at least a plurality of bus bars 507 on a resin plate 508.

[0008] The duct 506 includes a main body 506a having a substantially U-shaped or C-shaped cross section and flat flanges 506b connected to both ends of the main body 506a. The duct 506 extends over both ends of the battery assembly 500 in the longitudinal direction.

[0009] The duct 506 is arranged so that the main body 506a faces all the exhaust holes, that is, so that the main body 506a covers all the exhaust holes. A prismatic space is formed between the main body 506a and the upper surface of the unit body for the gas ejected from the exhaust holes to flow.

[0010] The duct 506 is held by the bus bar modules 505a and 505b with both flanges 506b in contact (close contact) with the upper surface of the cells of the battery assembly 500. That is, the duct 506 is held on the upper surface of the cells of the battery assembly 500 via the bus bar modules 505a and 505b.

[0011] When gas is ejected from the exhaust holes in the battery assembly 500 with the duct 506 attached, the ejected gas flows through the space formed between the main body 506a of the duct 506 and the upper surface of the cells of the battery assembly 500, and is then exhausted from the outlet 506c. A cylindrical member such as a tube is typically connected to the outlet 506c of the duct 506, and the gas exhausted from the duct 506 is guided to a predetermined location and exhausted to the outside.

[0012] In the past, a battery pack having a duct portion is known (see Patent Document 2). Figure 36 as well as Figure 37 As shown, the battery pack 700 includes at least a predetermined number of module boxes 701 , battery modules 702 housed in the module boxes 701 , and a bus bar box 704 that supports bus bars 703 .

[0013] The battery module 702 is formed by arranging a plurality of battery cells 720 in a cell stacking direction and connecting all the battery cells 720 constituting the battery module 702 in series or in parallel so as to be electrically connected.

[0014] The bus bar box 704 is a connection box member that is attached to the module box 701 so as to cover the battery module 702 together with the module box 701 .

[0015] The plurality of battery cells 720 are also single cells and have an outer casing 721 such as an aluminum can as an outer shell, and have an electrode terminal 722a as a positive terminal and an electrode terminal 722b as a negative terminal arranged on one end surface 721a of the rectangular outer casing 721 .

[0016] The outer casing 721 of the battery cell 720 is provided with a safety valve 723. The safety valve 723 is located between the electrode terminal 722a and the electrode terminal 722b and is configured to rupture when the internal pressure of the battery cell 720 reaches an abnormal pressure. The safety valve 723 is constructed by affixing a thin metal film to a hole opened in the end face 721a of the outer casing 721 of the battery cell 720 to block the hole. In this case, when the internal pressure of the battery cell 720 reaches an abnormal pressure, the metal film ruptures, and the hole of the outer casing 721 is opened. The gas inside the battery cell 720 is released to the outside of the outer casing 721, thereby reducing the internal pressure of the cell and preventing the battery cell 720 from rupturing.

[0017] The module box 701 is a deep, box-shaped structure capable of housing the entire battery cell 720. Furthermore, the module box 701 has a number of storage chambers for accommodating the same number of battery cells 720 as the number of battery cells 720 to be housed. The module box 701 has an opening at its upper end, which is one end, surrounded by four side panels. The electrode terminals 722a and 722b of the battery cells 720 disposed in the storage chambers are exposed in this opening.

[0018] The busbar box 704 has a duct portion 706 (see FIG. 1 ) that forms a smoke exhaust passage S1 for guiding the gas ejected from the safety valve 723 to a predetermined location. Figure 37 ).

[0019] The duct 706 connects the area of ​​the battery cell 720 where the safety valve 723 is located with the internal smoke exhaust passage S1. It is pressed against the upper surface 721a of the battery cell 720, sealing the smoke exhaust passage S1 from the outside. The duct 706 extends along the entire length of the busbar box 704 in the cell stacking direction.

[0020] Prior art literature

[0021] Patent Literature

[0022] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-186973

[0023] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2018-73551 Summary of the Invention

[0024] Technical problem to be solved by the invention

[0025] In Patent Document 1, when the battery assembly 500 equipped with the duct 506 is used and mounted on a vehicle, the bus bar modules 505a and 505b may shift (i.e., move relatively) relative to the battery assembly 500 fixed to the vehicle due to vibration of the vehicle.

[0026] In this case, since the pipe 506 is installed on the battery assembly 500 via the bus bar modules 505a and 505b, the pipe 506 also moves relative to the battery assembly 500. As a result, stress is easily generated at the connection point between the cylindrical component (the component that guides the gas to a predetermined position) connected to the outlet 506c of the pipe 506 and the pipe, resulting in gas leakage at the connection point.

[0027] An object of the present embodiment is to provide an electricity storage device in which a joint portion of a duct portion is less likely to move relative to a member connected to the joint portion during use of the electricity storage device.

[0028] Solutions for solving technical problems

[0029] The power storage device of this embodiment includes:

[0030] a plurality of power storage elements arranged in a first direction and having a gas discharge valve arranged in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction;

[0031] a pair of end members arranged on both sides of the plurality of energy storage elements in the first direction; and

[0032] a duct portion overlapping the gas discharge valve in the second direction,

[0033] The pipeline portion includes:

[0034] a duct body extending along the first direction and guiding the gas discharged from the gas discharge valve along the first direction;

[0035] a joint portion disposed at one end portion of the duct portion main body in the first direction and connected to another member so as to release the gas guided to the one end portion to the other member; and

[0036] An engaging portion is disposed at the one end portion of the duct portion main body and engages with the end member on one side in the first direction of the pair of end members.

[0037] A power storage device according to another embodiment includes:

[0038] a plurality of power storage elements arranged in a first direction and having a gas discharge valve arranged in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction;

[0039] a plurality of adjacent members disposed between the adjacent energy storage elements in the first direction, or disposed adjacent to an outer side of an endmost energy storage element among the plurality of energy storage elements in the first direction; and

[0040] a duct portion overlapping the gas discharge valve in the second direction,

[0041] At least one of the plurality of adjacent members, namely a first adjacent member, comprises:

[0042] a first main body portion that overlaps with the power storage element when viewed from the first direction; and

[0043] A pair of guide portions extends from the first main body portion in the second direction and extends along the duct portion on both sides of the duct portion in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction.

[0044] A power storage device according to another embodiment includes:

[0045] a plurality of power storage elements arranged in a first direction and having a gas discharge valve arranged in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction;

[0046] a plurality of adjacent members disposed between the adjacent energy storage elements in the first direction, or disposed adjacent to an outer side of an endmost energy storage element among the plurality of energy storage elements in the first direction; and

[0047] a duct portion overlapping the gas discharge valve in the second direction,

[0048] At least one of the plurality of adjacent members, namely a first adjacent member, comprises:

[0049] a first main body portion that overlaps with the power storage element when viewed from the first direction; and

[0050] a pair of guide portions extending from the first main body portion in the second direction and extending along the duct portion on both sides of the duct portion in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction,

[0051] A second adjacent member, different from the first adjacent member, among the plurality of adjacent members includes:

[0052] a second main body portion that overlaps the power storage element when viewed from the first direction; and

[0053] a locking piece extending from the second main body portion and extending in the same direction as the pair of guide portions at a position adjacent to the duct portion in the third direction and locking the duct portion;

[0054] The pair of guide portions is longer than the locking piece of the second abutting member in the second direction. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0055] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of the power storage device according to the first embodiment.

[0056] Figure 2 It is an exploded perspective view of the power storage device.

[0057] Figure 3 A perspective view of the device body with the duct section attached.

[0058] Figure 4 This is a diagram of the device main body with the duct portion attached, viewed from one side in the Z-axis direction.

[0059] Figure 5 It is an exploded perspective view of the device body.

[0060] Figure 6 It is a perspective view of a first intermediate abutting member included in the device body.

[0061] Figure 7 It is a perspective view of a second intermediate abutting member included in the device body.

[0062] Figure 8 It is a perspective view of an end abutment member included in the device body.

[0063] Figure 9 This is a diagram of the end adjacent member as viewed from the X-axis direction.

[0064] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 An enlarged view of the engaged portion and its surroundings at the cross section at the XX position.

[0065] Figure 11 This is a diagram of the duct portion viewed from the Y-axis direction.

[0066] Figure 12 This is a diagram of the duct portion viewed from the other side in the Z-axis direction.

[0067] Figure 13 yes Figure 4 An enlarged view of the upper portion of the cross section at position XIII-XIII.

[0068] Figure 14 This is a diagram for explaining the movement of the duct portion when the duct portion is attached to the device main body.

[0069] Figure 15It is an enlarged view of the engaged portion of the end abutment member and its surroundings in a longitudinal central cross section of the device body when the duct portion is in the first posture.

[0070] Figure 16 is the position of the device body when the duct portion is in the first posture Figure 4 An enlarged view of the engaged portion and its surroundings of the end adjacent member at the cross section at position XIII-XIII.

[0071] Figure 17 It is an enlarged view of the engaged portion and its surroundings of the end abutment member in a longitudinal central sectional view of the device body when the duct portion is in the fifth posture.

[0072] Figure 18 It is a perspective view of the power storage device according to the second embodiment.

[0073] Figure 19 It is an exploded perspective view of the power storage device.

[0074] Figure 20 This is a perspective view of the device body with the duct section installed.

[0075] Figure 21 This is a diagram of the device main body with the duct portion attached, viewed from one side in the Z-axis direction.

[0076] Figure 22 It is an exploded perspective view of the device body.

[0077] Figure 23 It is a perspective view of a first intermediate abutting member included in the device body.

[0078] Figure 24 It is a perspective view of a second intermediate abutting member included in the device body.

[0079] Figure 25 It is a perspective view of an end abutment member included in the device body.

[0080] Figure 26 From different angles Figure 20 An enlarged stereoscopic image obtained by observing the range shown in XXVI.

[0081] Figure 27 yes Figure 20 XXVII is an enlarged view of the range shown.

[0082] Figure 28 yes Figure 21 An enlarged view of the upper portion of the cross section at position XXVIII-XXVIII.

[0083] Figure 29 This is a diagram of the duct portion viewed from the Y-axis direction.

[0084] Figure 30 This is a diagram of the duct portion viewed from the other side in the Z-axis direction.

[0085] Figure 31 This is a diagram showing a state in which the end portion of one side of the duct portion is pressed between a pair of guide portions of the end abutment member.

[0086] Figure 32 It is a diagram for explaining a guide portion according to another embodiment.

[0087] Figure 33 This is an enlarged view of an engaged portion of an end abutting member and its surroundings in a longitudinal center cross section of an electricity storage device according to another embodiment.

[0088] Figure 34 It is an enlarged perspective view of an engaged portion and its surroundings of an end adjacent member of the electricity storage device according to another embodiment.

[0089] Figure 35 This is a perspective view showing a duct holding structure of a conventional battery assembly.

[0090] Figure 36 This is a perspective view of a conventional battery module.

[0091] Figure 37 is a longitudinal end view of the battery module. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0092] (1) A power storage device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes:

[0093] a plurality of power storage elements arranged in a first direction and having a gas discharge valve arranged in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction;

[0094] a pair of end members arranged on both sides of the plurality of energy storage elements in the first direction; and

[0095] a duct portion overlapping the gas discharge valve in the second direction,

[0096] The pipeline portion includes:

[0097] a duct body extending along the first direction and guiding the gas discharged from the gas discharge valve along the first direction;

[0098] a joint portion disposed at one end portion of the duct portion main body in the first direction and connected to another member so as to release the gas guided to the one end portion to the other member; and

[0099] An engaging portion is disposed at the one end portion of the duct portion main body and engages with the end member on one side in the first direction of the pair of end members.

[0100] As in the electricity storage device according to one embodiment of the present invention, the engaging portion, which is arranged at one end of the pipe portion main body together with the joint portion, engages with the end member. This can suppress movement of the joint portion relative to the end member when a force is applied to the pipe portion due to, for example, vibration applied to the electricity storage device or pressure when gas is released from a gas discharge valve of the electricity storage element. Consequently, movement of the joint portion relative to other members (relative movement) can also be suppressed.

[0101] (2) In addition to the power storage device described in (1), it may be configured as follows:

[0102] The end member on one side has an engaged portion engaged with the engaging portion at an end portion in the second direction toward the gas exhaust valve.

[0103] The engaging portion extends from the one end portion of the duct body along the first direction.

[0104] The engaged portion comprises:

[0105] a first portion that faces the engaging portion from a side opposite to the plurality of energy storage elements in the second direction and extends in a plane direction perpendicular to the second direction; and

[0106] The second portion protrudes from the end edge of the first portion in a direction away from the plurality of energy storage elements in the second direction and extends along the end edge of the first portion.

[0107] In the electricity storage device described in (2) above, the strength of the first portion is enhanced by the second portion. Therefore, when the duct portion (specifically, the one end portion) attempts to move in the second direction away from the plurality of electricity storage elements (the end member on one side), the first portion is less likely to deform, thereby more effectively suppressing the movement of the duct portion.

[0108] In the battery pack 700 disclosed in patent document 2, when installing the duct portion 706 to the bus bar box 704, the duct portion 706 is aligned in the bus bar box 704 in such a manner that the safety valve 723 of the battery cell 720 is opposite to the smoke exhaust passage S1. On this basis, the duct portion 706 is fixed in such a manner as to be pressed against the upper surface 721a of the battery cell 720, so the installation operation is complicated.

[0109] Another embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an electricity storage device in which the duct portion can be easily assembled.

[0110] (3) A power storage device according to another embodiment of the present invention includes:

[0111] a plurality of power storage elements arranged in a first direction and having a gas discharge valve arranged in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction;

[0112] a plurality of adjacent members disposed between the adjacent energy storage elements in the first direction, or disposed adjacent to an outer side of an endmost energy storage element among the plurality of energy storage elements in the first direction; and

[0113] a duct portion overlapping the gas discharge valve in the second direction,

[0114] At least one of the plurality of adjacent members, namely a first adjacent member, comprises:

[0115] a first main body portion that overlaps with the power storage element when viewed from the first direction; and

[0116] A pair of guide portions extends from the first main body portion in the second direction and extends along the duct portion on both sides of the duct portion in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction.

[0117] According to the power storage device of the other embodiment of the present invention, when the duct portion is pressed between the pair of guide portions, the duct portion is guided along the pair of guide portions.

[0118] (4) A power storage device according to another embodiment of the present invention includes:

[0119] a plurality of power storage elements arranged in a first direction and having a gas discharge valve arranged in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction;

[0120] a plurality of adjacent members disposed between the adjacent energy storage elements in the first direction, or disposed adjacent to an outer side of an endmost energy storage element among the plurality of energy storage elements in the first direction; and

[0121] a duct portion overlapping the gas discharge valve in the second direction,

[0122] At least one of the plurality of adjacent members, namely a first adjacent member, comprises:

[0123] a first main body portion that overlaps with the power storage element when viewed from the first direction; and

[0124] a pair of guide portions extending from the first main body portion in the second direction and extending along the duct portion on both sides of the duct portion in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction,

[0125] A second adjacent member, different from the first adjacent member, among the plurality of adjacent members includes:

[0126] a second main body portion that overlaps the power storage element when viewed from the first direction; and

[0127] a locking piece extending from the second main body portion and extending in the same direction as the pair of guide portions at a position adjacent to the duct portion in the third direction and locking the duct portion;

[0128] The pair of guide portions is longer than the locking piece of the second abutting member in the second direction.

[0129] According to the power storage device of yet another embodiment of the present invention, the duct portion is pressed between the pair of guide portions, whereby the duct portion is guided by the pair of guide portions to the arrangement position (the position where it is locked to the locking piece of the second adjacent member), thereby facilitating assembly of the duct portion.

[0130] (5) In addition to the power storage device described in (4), it may be configured as follows:

[0131] The guide portion has a bending rigidity greater than that of the locking piece.

[0132] By ensuring the bending rigidity of the guide portion as in the electricity storage device described in (5) above, the guide portion is less likely to bend when the duct portion is pressed between the pair of guide portions, thereby enabling the guide portion to be more accurately guided to the locking position with the locking piece.

[0133] (6) In addition to the power storage device described in (4) or (5) above, it may be:

[0134] The first adjacent member is arranged outside an endmost energy storage element among the plurality of energy storage elements in the first direction.

[0135] As shown in the electricity storage device described in (6) above, the first adjacent member is located outside the plurality of electricity storage elements in the first direction. Therefore, when the duct portion is pressed between the pair of guide portions, the end portion of the duct portion in the first direction is guided to the configuration position (i.e., the end portion of the duct portion is accurately positioned), thereby facilitating assembly of the duct portion.

[0136] (7) In addition to the power storage device described in (1) above, it may be configured as follows:

[0137] The duct portion is composed of a first member on the side of the energy storage element in the second direction and a second member on the side opposite to the energy storage element in the second direction.

[0138] The first member includes a first engaging portion disposed at one end portion in the first direction.

[0139] The end member of the pair of end members that engages with the first engaging portion includes a first engaged portion that engages with the first engaging portion.

[0140] As shown in the electricity storage device described in (7) above, even if the pipe portion is composed of two members, since the first engaging portion arranged at the end of one side of the first member together with the joint portion engages with the end member, it is possible to suppress the movement of the joint portion relative to the end member when a force acts on the pipe portion including the first member due to vibration applied to the electricity storage device, pressure when gas is released from the gas discharge valve of the electricity storage element, etc.

[0141] (8) In addition to the power storage device described in (1) above, it may be configured as follows:

[0142] The duct portion is composed of a first member on the side of the energy storage element in the second direction and a second member on the side opposite to the energy storage element in the second direction.

[0143] The second member includes a second engaging portion disposed at one end portion in the first direction.

[0144] The end member of the pair of end members that engages with the second engagement portion includes a second engaged portion that engages with the second member engagement portion.

[0145] According to the electricity storage device described in (8) above, since the second engaging portion arranged at the end of one side of the second member engages with the end member, even if a force acts on the pipe portion including the second member due to pressure when gas is released from the gas discharge valve of the electricity storage element, etc., movement of the joint portion relative to the end member can be suppressed.

[0146] (9) In addition to the power storage device described in (1) above, it may be:

[0147] The duct portion is composed of a first member on the side of the energy storage element in the second direction and a second member on the side opposite to the energy storage element in the second direction.

[0148] The first member includes a first engaging portion disposed at one end portion in the first direction.

[0149] The second member includes a second engaging portion disposed at one end portion in the first direction.

[0150] The end member of the pair of end members that engages with the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion includes a first engaged portion that engages with the first engaging portion and a second engaged portion that engages with the second engaging portion.

[0151] According to the power storage device described in (9), since the two engaging portions (the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion) of the duct portion engage with the end member, movement of the joint portion relative to the end member can be more effectively suppressed. Furthermore, since the first member and the second member arranged in the second direction engage with the end member together, even if a force tending to separate the first member and the second member acts on the duct portion, separation (peeling, etc.) of the first member and the second member can be appropriately suppressed.

[0152] Below, refer to Figures 1 to 17 The present embodiment of the present invention (hereinafter referred to as the first embodiment) will be described. The names of the components (constituent elements) in this embodiment are those in this embodiment and may differ from the names of the components (constituent elements) in the background art.

[0153] like Figures 1 to 5 As shown, the electricity storage device 1 includes a plurality of electricity storage elements 10 each having a gas discharge valve 132, a pair of end adjacent members (end members) 2C disposed on both sides of the plurality of electricity storage elements 10, and a duct portion 6 that overlaps with the gas discharge valves 132 of the electricity storage elements 10. The duct portion 6 engages with one of the pair of end adjacent members 2C.

[0154] In the energy storage device 1 of this embodiment, a plurality of energy storage elements 10 are arranged in a first direction, and a pair of end adjacent members 2C are arranged on both sides of the plurality of energy storage elements 10 in the first direction. The plurality of energy storage elements 10 are arranged so that the gas discharge valves 132 face a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The duct portion 6 extends in the first direction and is arranged so as to overlap the gas discharge valves 132 of the energy storage elements 10 in the second direction. The duct portion 6 is arranged so that one end (engaging end) in the first direction engages with the end adjacent member 2C (see FIG. 1 ). Figure 17 ).

[0155] Specifically, the power storage device 1 includes a device body A including a plurality of power storage elements 10, a duct portion 6 mounted on the device body A, and a plate portion C overlapping with a portion of the device body A where the duct portion 6 is mounted. The power storage device 1 of this embodiment includes a sealing portion 7 (see FIG. 1 ) disposed between the device body A and the duct portion 6. Figure 2Hereinafter, the predetermined direction in which the energy storage elements 10 are arranged is defined as the X-axis direction (first direction) of the orthogonal coordinate system, the direction in which the device body A and the plate portion C are arranged is defined as the Z-axis direction (second direction) of the orthogonal coordinate system, and the direction orthogonal to the X-axis direction and the Z-axis direction is defined as the Y-axis direction (third direction) of the orthogonal coordinate system.

[0156] The device body A includes a stack D having a plurality of energy storage elements 10 and a plurality of adjacent members 2, the energy storage elements 10 and the adjacent members 2 being arranged alternately in the X-axis direction, and a holder 3 for holding the stack D. The device body A also includes a first fixing portion 4 for fixing the adjacent members 2 to the holder 3, and an insulating member 5 for insulating the stack D from the holder 3.

[0157] The plurality of energy storage elements 10 are primary batteries, secondary batteries, capacitors, etc. The energy storage element 10 of this embodiment is a chargeable and dischargeable non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery. More specifically, the energy storage element 10 is a lithium ion secondary battery that utilizes the movement of electrons associated with the movement of lithium ions.

[0158] Specifically, the electric storage element 1 includes an electrode body, a case 11 that houses the electrode body and the electrolyte, a terminal 14 partially exposed to the outside of the case 11, and a current collector connecting the electrode body and the terminal 14 (see FIG. Figure 5 The energy storage element 10 of this embodiment includes a pair of terminals 14. The pair of terminals 14 are located on one side of the energy storage element 10 in the Z-axis direction ( Figure 5 The ends (on the upper side) are arranged at intervals along the Y-axis direction.

[0159] In the electrode assembly, positive electrode plates and negative electrode plates are alternately stacked with separators interposed therebetween. In this electrode assembly, lithium ions move between the positive electrode plates and the negative electrode plates, thereby causing the energy storage device 10 to be charged and discharged.

[0160] The box 11 includes a box body 12 having an opening at one end in the Z-axis direction, and a plate-shaped cover 13 that blocks (closes) the opening of the box body 12. The box body 12 has a Z-axis direction. Figure 5 The box 11 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape (hexagonal shape) and a square tube shape (ie, a bottomed square tube shape) with its end portion (the lower side) blocked.

[0161] Specifically, the box body 12 includes a plate-shaped blocking portion 121 and a cylindrical body portion (peripheral wall) 122 extending from the peripheral edge of the blocking portion 121 in the Z-axis direction.

[0162] The blocking portion 121 is located at the bottom of the box body 12 (i.e., the bottom wall of the box body 12 when the opening is facing upward) when the box body 12 is arranged with the opening facing upward. The blocking portion 121 has a rectangular shape when viewed from the Z-axis direction.

[0163] The cylindrical body 122 has a square cylindrical shape, more specifically, a flattened square cylindrical shape. The cylindrical body 122 includes a pair of long wall portions 123 extending from the long sides of the periphery of the sealing portion 121, and a pair of short wall portions 124 extending from the short sides of the periphery of the sealing portion 121. The short wall portions 124 connect the ends of the pair of long wall portions 123 that face each other in the X-axis direction, thereby forming the cylindrical body 122 in a square cylindrical shape.

[0164] The cover plate 13 is a plate-shaped member that closes the opening of the box body 12. The cover plate 13 includes a rectangular cover plate body 131 that is elongated in the Y-axis direction and a gas exhaust valve 132 disposed on the cover plate body 131.

[0165] The gas discharge valve 132 discharges gas to the outside when the pressure inside the box 11 exceeds a predetermined value due to gas generated inside the box 11. In this embodiment, the gas discharge valve 132 is located in the center of the cover plate body 131 in the Y-axis direction. The gas discharge valve 132 in this embodiment has a circular shape when viewed from the Z-axis direction.

[0166] The cover plate 13 thus configured is joined to the box body 12 in a state where the peripheral edge of the cover plate 13 overlaps with the peripheral edge of the opening of the box body 12 , thereby forming the box 11 .

[0167] The pair of terminals 14 are electrically connected to the terminals 14 of other energy storage elements 10 or to external devices. Terminals 14 are formed from a conductive member. Terminals 14 are formed from a metal material with high weldability, such as aluminum or aluminum alloys, or copper or copper alloys.

[0168] The pair of terminals 14 are arranged at both ends in the Y-axis direction of the cover plate 13. That is, the pair of terminals 14 are arranged on the cover plate 13 at positions sandwiching the gas discharge valve 132 therebetween.

[0169] The above-described energy storage element 10 has a flat rectangular parallelepiped shape. Multiple energy storage elements 10 are arranged along the X-axis, with the wider surfaces (long walls 123) of the case 11 facing each other across the adjacent member 2. In this case, the gas discharge valves 132 of the energy storage elements 10 are arranged in a row along the X-axis. The terminals 14 of one of the energy storage elements 10 and the other terminal 14 are arranged along the X-axis, sandwiching the gas discharge valves 132 therebetween.

[0170] Multiple adjacent members 2 have insulating properties and are arranged between energy storage elements 10 arranged along the X-axis, or between an energy storage element 10 and a member arranged relative to the energy storage element 10 along the X-axis (in this embodiment, the terminal portion 31, which is part of the retaining portion 3). The adjacent members 2 in this embodiment are formed of an insulating resin. These adjacent members 2 form flow paths R between the adjacent energy storage elements 10 and the adjacent energy storage elements 10, through which a temperature-regulating fluid (in this embodiment, a gas such as air) can flow. These multiple adjacent members 2 include multiple types of adjacent members 2A, 2B, and 2C.

[0171] Specifically, the plurality of adjacent members 2 include a first intermediate adjacent member 2A disposed between two adjacent energy storage elements 10, a second intermediate adjacent member 2B disposed between the two adjacent energy storage elements 10 and fixed to the holder 3, and an end adjacent member (end member) 2C disposed between the holder 3 and the energy storage element 10 located at the endmost portion in the X-axis direction and adjacent to the energy storage element 10. In other words, the energy storage device 1 includes the first intermediate adjacent member 2A, the second intermediate adjacent member 2B, and the end adjacent member 2C as adjacent members 2.

[0172] The energy storage device 1 of this embodiment includes a plurality of first intermediate adjacent members 2A, a single second intermediate adjacent member 2B, and two (a pair of) end adjacent members 2C. The plurality of first intermediate adjacent members 2A are disposed between the energy storage elements 10, excluding the space between the energy storage elements 10 where the second intermediate adjacent member 2B is disposed. In the energy storage device 1 of this embodiment, one of the two end adjacent members 2C is an end member that engages with the engaging end of the duct portion 6.

[0173] Also like Figure 6 As shown, the plurality of first intermediate adjacent members 2A include a first intermediate main body 21A positioned between the energy storage elements 10, and a first intermediate locking piece 22A that locks the duct portion 6 relative to the first intermediate main body 21A. In this embodiment, locking refers to the restraint of movement of one part by the abutment (contact) of two parts. For example, the first locking piece 22A abuts the locked portion 65 of the duct portion 6 by hooking or engaging therewith, thereby securing the duct portion 6.

[0174] Specifically, the first intermediate adjacent member 2A includes a first intermediate main body portion 21A extending along a plane perpendicular to the X-axis direction between adjacent energy storage devices 10 in the X-axis direction, and a first intermediate locking piece 22A extending (protruding) from the first intermediate main body portion 21A toward one side in the Z-axis direction and locking the duct portion 6 relative to the first intermediate main body portion 21A. The first intermediate adjacent member 2A also includes a first intermediate restricting portion 23A that restricts movement of the energy storage device 10 adjacent to the first intermediate main body portion 21A relative to the first intermediate main body portion 21A.

[0175] The first intermediate body portion 21A is a portion that abuts against the long wall portion 123 of the casing 11 of the energy storage element 10. This first intermediate body portion 21A, along with the adjacent energy storage element 10, forms a flow path R between the adjacent energy storage element 10, through which a temperature adjustment fluid can flow. In this embodiment, the first intermediate body portion 21A has a rectangular plate shape corresponding to the size of the energy storage element 10 when viewed from the X-axis direction, and a cross-sectional shape along the XZ plane (a plane including the X-axis and Z-axis directions) that is a rectangular corrugated shape.

[0176] Two first intermediate locking pieces 22A extend from one end of the first intermediate body portion 21A in the Z-axis direction, spaced apart in the Y-axis direction. The spacing between the two first intermediate locking pieces 22A in the Y-axis direction corresponds to the Y-axis dimensions of the duct portion 6 and the Y-axis dimensions of the sealing portion 7. Thus, the first intermediate locking pieces 22A extend along the duct portion 6 toward one side in the Z-axis direction. The two first intermediate locking pieces 22A have a plate-like shape with the Y-axis direction as the thickness direction (in other words, a plate-like shape extending along the XZ plane).

[0177] Specifically, the two first intermediate locking pieces 22A include a locking piece body 221A extending from the first intermediate main body portion 21A along the duct portion 6 in the Z-axis direction (the opposing direction of the gas exhaust valve 132 and the duct portion 6), and a locking portion 222A that engages with the duct portion 6 (more specifically, the duct portion body 60 described later).

[0178] The locking piece body 221A is a strip-shaped portion extending straight from the first intermediate body portion 21A in the Z-axis direction. The locking piece body 221A of this embodiment is a strip-shaped portion whose position in the Z-axis direction is constant in the X-axis direction.

[0179] The locking portion 222A extends in the X-axis direction (the direction in which the duct portion 6 extends) from a position in the locking piece body 221A spaced apart from the first intermediate body portion 21A to one side in the Z-axis direction. In this embodiment, the locking portion 222A extends from the locking piece body 221A to one side and the other side in the X-axis direction. In other words, the first intermediate locking piece 22A has two locking portions 222A.

[0180] The first intermediate restricting portion 23A extends from a corner of the rectangular first intermediate body portion 21A in the X-axis direction. It abuts the energy storage element 10 (specifically, the case 11) adjacent to the first intermediate body portion 21A from the outside in the YZ plane, thereby restricting the relative movement of the energy storage element 10 with respect to the first intermediate body portion 21A in the YZ plane. In this embodiment, the first intermediate restricting portion 23A extends from the first intermediate body portion 21A toward one side and the other side in the X-axis direction.

[0181] Also like Figure 7 As shown, the second intermediate adjacent member 2B includes a second intermediate body portion 21B positioned between the energy storage elements 10 and a second intermediate locking piece 22B that locks the duct portion 6 relative to the second intermediate body portion 21B.

[0182] Specifically, the second intermediate adjacent member 2B includes a second intermediate main body portion 21B extending along a plane perpendicular to the X-axis direction between adjacent energy storage elements 10 in the X-axis direction, and a second intermediate locking piece 22B extending (protruding) from the second intermediate main body portion 21B toward one side in the Z-axis direction and locking the duct portion 6 relative to the second intermediate main body portion 21B. The second intermediate adjacent member 2B also includes a second intermediate restricting portion 23B that restricts movement of the energy storage element 10 adjacent to the second intermediate main body portion 21B relative to the second intermediate main body portion 21B, and a second fixing portion 24B for securing the second intermediate adjacent member 2B to the holder 3.

[0183] The second intermediate body portion 21B is positioned so as to partially abut against the long wall portion 123 of the casing 11 of the energy storage element 10. This second intermediate body portion 21B, along with the adjacent energy storage element 10, forms a flow path R between the second intermediate body portion 21B and the adjacent energy storage element 10, through which a temperature-regulating fluid can flow. In this embodiment, the second intermediate body portion 21B has a larger dimension in the X-axis direction than the first intermediate body portion 21A (i.e., it is thicker). When viewed from the X-axis, the second intermediate body portion 21B has a rectangular plate shape corresponding to the size of the energy storage element 10. This second intermediate body portion 21B has a plurality of ridges 211B extending in the Y-axis direction and spaced apart in the Z-axis direction. These ridges 211B protrude from a surface 212B of the second intermediate body portion 21B that faces the energy storage element 10.

[0184] The two second intermediate locking pieces 22B extend from one end of the second intermediate main body 21B in the Z-axis direction, spaced apart from each other in the Y-axis direction. Similar to the two first intermediate locking pieces 22A of the first intermediate adjacent member 2A, the spacing between the two second intermediate locking pieces 22B in the Y-axis direction corresponds to the Y-axis dimension of the duct portion 6. Thus, the second intermediate locking pieces 22B extend along the duct portion 6 in the Z-axis direction. The structure of the two second intermediate locking pieces 22B is identical to that of the first intermediate locking piece 22A. Specifically, the second intermediate locking piece 22B includes a locking piece body 221B and a locking portion 222B.

[0185] The second intermediate restricting portion 23B extends from a corner of the rectangular second intermediate body portion 21B in the X-axis direction. It abuts the energy storage element 10 (specifically, the case 11) adjacent to the second intermediate body portion 21B from the outside in the YZ plane, thereby restricting the relative movement of the energy storage element 10 with respect to the second intermediate body portion 21B in the YZ plane. In this embodiment, the second intermediate restricting portion 23B extends from the second intermediate body portion 21B in one direction and the other direction in the X-axis direction.

[0186] The second fixing portions 24B are arranged at the end of the second intermediate body portion 21B in the Y-axis direction. These multiple second fixing portions 24B engage with the first fixing portions 4 to secure the second intermediate adjacent member 2B to the holding portion 3. In this embodiment, the second fixing portions 24B are insert nuts. In this embodiment, the first fixing portion 4 is a bolt that passes through the holding portion 3 and screws into the second fixing portions 24B, thereby securing (fixing) the second intermediate adjacent member 2B to the holding portion 3.

[0187] Also like Figures 8 to 10 As shown, the two end adjacent members 2C include an end main body portion 21C that overlaps with the energy storage element 10 when viewed in the X-axis direction, an end restriction portion 23C that restricts movement of the energy storage element 10 adjacent to the end main body portion 21C relative to the end main body portion 21C, and a pair of guide portions 25C extending from the end main body portion 21C in the Z-axis direction. The ends of the two end adjacent members 2C on one side in the Z-axis direction (the direction toward which the gas discharge valve 132 of the energy storage element 10 faces) include an engaged portion 26C that is engageable with the duct portion 6.

[0188] In the power storage device 1 of this embodiment, the two end adjacent members 2C have the engaged portions 26C, but the present invention is not limited to this structure. In the power storage device 1 of this embodiment, the duct portion 6 has only one portion 67 (see FIG. 1 ) that engages with the end adjacent member 2C. Figure 11), only one of the two end adjacent members 2C may have the engaged portion 26C.

[0189] The end body portion 21C is a portion that abuts the long wall portion 123 of the energy storage element 10. Similar to the first intermediate body portion 21A of the first adjacent intermediate member 2A and the second intermediate body portion 21B of the second adjacent intermediate member 2B, this end body portion 21C, along with the adjacent energy storage element 10, forms a flow path R through which a temperature-adjusting fluid can flow. The end body portion 21C of this embodiment has a rectangular plate shape corresponding to the size of the energy storage element 10 when viewed from the X-axis. This end body portion 21C has a plurality of ridges 211C extending in the Y-axis direction and spaced apart in the Z-axis direction. These ridges 211C protrude from a surface 212C of the end body portion 21C that faces the energy storage element 10.

[0190] The end restraining portion 23C extends from a corner of the rectangular end body portion 21C in the X-axis direction. It abuts the energy storage element 10 (more specifically, the case 11) adjacent to the end body portion 21C from the outside in the YZ plane, thereby restraining the relative movement of the energy storage element 10 with respect to the end body portion 21C in the YZ plane. In this embodiment, the end restraining portion 23C extends from the end body portion 21C toward the energy storage element 10 in the X-axis direction.

[0191] A pair of guide portions 25C extend along the duct portion 6 on both sides of the duct portion 6 in the Y-axis direction. The pair of guide portions 25C are arranged in the Y-axis direction at intervals corresponding to the size of the duct portion 6, and extend from the end body portion 21C along the duct portion 6 to one side in the Z-axis direction.

[0192] These guide portions 25C are longer in the Z-axis direction than the first intermediate locking piece 22A of the first intermediate adjacent member 2A (see Figure 13 In the Z-axis direction, the first intermediate retaining piece 22A of the first intermediate adjacent member 2A is the same size as the second intermediate retaining piece 22B of the second intermediate adjacent member 2B. Therefore, the guide portion 25C is longer than the second intermediate retaining piece 22B of the second intermediate adjacent member 2B.

[0193] The Y-axis dimension (thickness) of the guide portion 25C is greater than the Y-axis dimension (thickness) of the first intermediate locking piece 22A of the first intermediate adjacent member 2A and the Y-axis dimension (thickness) of the second intermediate locking piece 22B of the second intermediate adjacent member 2B. Consequently, the guide portion 25C has a greater flexural rigidity than the first and second intermediate locking pieces 22A, 22B. Specifically, the flexural rigidity of the pair of guide portions 25C in the direction of increasing spacing between their front end portions (the Y-axis direction) is greater than the flexural rigidity of the first intermediate locking piece 22A of the first intermediate adjacent member 2A, and greater than the flexural rigidity of the second intermediate locking piece 22B of the second intermediate adjacent member 2B.

[0194] Specifically, the guide portion 25C includes a guide surface 251C that guides the duct portion 6 to the installation position when the duct portion 6 is installed in the device body A, and an induction surface 252C that allows the duct portion 6 to easily enter between the pair of guide portions 25C (i.e., between the pair of guide surfaces 251C).

[0195] The guide surface 251C extends along the XZ plane and is elongated in the Z-axis direction. The guiding surface 252C is located at the front end of the guide portion 25C. It is located outward in the Y-axis direction (away from the center position of the end adjacent member 2C in the Y-axis direction) as it approaches one side in the Z-axis direction. It is also inclined relative to the guide surface 251C. The guide surface 251C and guiding surface 252C are connected in the Z-axis direction.

[0196] The engaged portion 26C is a portion that engages the duct portion 6 when the duct portion 6 is mounted on the device body A. The engaged portion 26C has a recess 260 that is recessed outward in the X-axis direction (in the direction away from the device body A). A portion of the duct portion 6, namely the engaging portion 67 (see FIG. 26A ), is inserted or fitted into the recess 260. Figure 11 ) and engages with the duct portion 6. The engaged portion 26C is arranged at the center portion in the Y-axis direction of one end portion of the end body portion 21C in the Z-axis direction (specifically, between the pair of guide portions 25C).

[0197] Specifically, the engaged portion 26C includes a bottom portion 261 whose edge on one side of the end body portion 21C in the Z-axis direction extends in the XY plane and faces one side in the Z-axis direction; a restricting portion 262 that extends in the XY plane and faces the other side in the Z-axis direction at a position spaced apart from the bottom portion 261 in the Z-axis direction; a pair of side portions 263 connecting the Y-axis end edges of the bottom portion 261 and the restricting portion 262; and a blocking portion 264 connecting the outer X-axis end edges of the bottom portion 261, the restricting portion 262, and the pair of side portions 263. The bottom portion 261, the restricting portion 262, the pair of side portions 263, and the blocking portion 264 constitute a recess 260.

[0198] The engaged portion 26C includes a restriction portion (first portion) 265 having a restriction surface portion 262 and a reinforcement portion (second portion) 266 that reinforces the restriction portion 265 .

[0199] The restriction portion 265 is a plate-shaped portion having a restriction surface portion 262 and extending in the direction of a plane (XY plane) perpendicular to the Z-axis direction, and is opposed to the engagement portion 67 of the duct portion 6 from one side in the Z-axis direction (the side opposite to the plurality of storage elements) (see Figure 17 The reinforcing portion 266 protrudes from the edge of the restricting portion 265 toward one side in the Z-axis direction (away from the plurality of energy storage elements 10 ) and extends along the edge of the restricting portion 265 (specifically, the inner edge in the X-axis direction).

[0200] like Figures 1 to 5 As shown, the holding portion 3 surrounds the stacked body D to hold the stacked body D. Specifically, the holding portion 3 surrounds the plurality of energy storage elements 10 and the plurality of adjacent members 2 to hold the plurality of energy storage elements 10 and the plurality of adjacent members 2 together. The holding portion 3 is made of metal, resin, or the like.

[0201] Specifically, the holding portion 3 includes a pair of terminal portions 31 disposed on both sides of the stack D in the X-axis direction, an extension portion 32 extending in the X-axis direction along the stack D at a position aligned with the stack D in the Y-axis direction, and a connecting portion 33 connecting the terminal portions 31 and the extension portion 32. The holding portion 3 of this embodiment includes a pair of extension portions 32 disposed at intervals in the Y-axis direction so that the stack D is positioned therebetween.

[0202] The pair of terminal portions 31 are arranged so that the end adjacent member 2C is sandwiched between the pair of terminal portions 31 and the storage element 10 arranged at the end in the X-axis direction. Specifically, the pair of terminal portions 31 have a terminal portion body 311 extending along the YZ plane direction, and a flange portion 313 extending from the terminal portion body 311 in a direction away from the storage element 10 in the X-axis direction (see Figure 5 ).

[0203] The terminal portion body 311 is rectangular in shape and has a size corresponding to the storage element 10 when viewed from the X-axis direction. Specifically, the terminal portion body 311 is rectangular in shape and is elongated in the Y-axis direction. It has a plurality of through holes 312 arranged at intervals along the Z-axis direction at both ends in the Y-axis direction (see FIG. Figure 5 The flange portion 313 extends from one end portion of the terminal portion main body 311 in the Z-axis direction in the X-axis direction and in the Y-axis direction.

[0204] The pair of extension portions 32 includes: an extension portion main body 320 that is opposite to the short wall portion 124 of the energy storage element 10 with the insulating member 5 interposed therebetween; a first piece portion 321 that extends from one end portion of the extension portion main body 320 in the Z-axis direction along the cover plate 13 of the energy storage element 10 in the Y-axis direction and in the X-axis direction; a second piece portion 322 that extends from the other end portion of the extension portion main body 320 in the Z-axis direction along the sealing portion 121 of the energy storage element 10 in the Y-axis direction and in the X-axis direction; and a pair of third piece portions 323 that extend from the end portion of the extension portion main body 320 in the X-axis direction along the terminal portion 31 in the Y-axis direction and in the Z-axis direction.

[0205] The extension body 320 is a plate-shaped portion extending along the short wall portion 124 of the energy storage element 10. It has a plurality of vents 3201 extending along the Y-axis to allow a temperature adjustment fluid to flow into or out of the flow path R. It also has a plurality of first fixing holes 3202 extending along the Y-axis at positions corresponding to the second fixing portion 24B of the second intermediate adjacent member 2B. The first fixing portion 4 is inserted through each of these first fixing holes 3202.

[0206] The first piece 321 is a strip-shaped portion elongated in the X-axis direction, and the second piece 322 is also elongated in the X-axis direction. The width of the second piece 322 (the dimension in the Y-axis direction) is greater than the width of the first piece 321, excluding its two ends in the X-axis direction. The pair of third pieces 323 have a plurality of second fixing holes 3231 spaced apart in the Z-axis direction. The second fixing holes 3231 are located at positions corresponding to the through-holes 312 of the terminal portion 31.

[0207] The plurality of connecting portions 33 fasten the terminal portion 31 and the extension portion 32 by passing through the through-hole 312 of the terminal portion 31 and the second fixing hole 3231 of the extension portion 32 (specifically, the third piece 323). The connecting portions 33 of this embodiment are composed of bolts 331 and nuts 332.

[0208] The insulating member 5 has insulating properties. It is disposed between the extension portion 32 and the stacked body D. Specifically, the energy storage device 1 includes a pair of insulating members 5 , which cover the region of the extension portion 32 that faces the plurality of energy storage elements 10. Thus, the insulating members 5 insulate the extension portion 32 from the plurality of energy storage elements 10. A ventilation region 51 corresponding in size and shape to the ventilation opening 3201 of the extension portion main body 320 is provided in the insulating member 5 at a location corresponding to the ventilation opening 3201 of the extension portion main body 320.

[0209] The sealing portion 7 is a portion or member disposed between the device body A and the duct portion 6 to suppress gas leakage from between the device body A and the duct portion 6, and has a sealing portion through-hole 71 (see FIG. 1 ) that connects the gas discharge valve 132 with the guide space S in the duct portion 6. Figure 2 、 Figure 17 The sealing portion 7 extends along the X-axis at a position corresponding to the gas discharge valve 132 in the Y-axis direction at one end of the device body A in the Z-axis direction. The sealing portion 7 of this embodiment is formed of a foamed body such as a fluorine-based, silicone-based, or urethane-based resin, and seals the space between the device body A and the duct portion 6.

[0210] Specifically, the sealing portion 7 is a strip-shaped member having a width in the Y-axis direction and a length in the X-axis direction. It has a sealing portion through-hole 71 at a position corresponding to the gas discharge valve 132 of the energy storage element 10 (specifically, a position overlapping the gas discharge valve 132 when viewed from the Z-axis direction). In other words, the sealing portion 7 has a plurality of sealing portion through-holes 71 arranged in a row at intervals along the X-axis direction.

[0211] The width (dimension in the Y-axis direction) of the sealing portion 7 in this embodiment is sized to correspond to the duct portion 6. The sealing portion through-hole 71 has a shape and size corresponding to the gas discharge valve 132. In this embodiment, the sealing portion through-hole 71 is a circular hole having the same or substantially the same diameter as the gas discharge valve 132.

[0212] The duct portion 6 is arranged along the X-axis direction while facing the gas exhaust valve 132 in the Z-axis direction. The duct portion 6 of this embodiment extends along the energy storage elements 10 from one end portion to the other end portion in the X-axis direction.

[0213] Specifically, as Figure 11 as well as Figure 12 As shown, the duct portion 6 includes: a duct portion main body 60 extending in the X-axis direction and guiding the gas discharged from the gas discharge valve 132 of the storage element 10 in the X-axis direction; one side of the duct portion main body 60 arranged in the X-axis direction ( Figure 11 The duct portion 6 also includes a joint portion 66 at the end portion 60a (right side in the figure), and an engaging portion 67 arranged at one end portion 60a of the duct portion main body 60. The duct portion 6 also includes intermediate engaging pieces 22A, 22B (specifically, engaging portions 222A, 222B of the intermediate engaging pieces 22A, 22B: see Figure 6 as well as Figure 7 ) are engaged with a plurality of engaged portions 65. The duct portion 6 of this embodiment is made of a resin such as polybutylene terephthalate or a glass fiber blended resin (polybutylene terephthalate-glass fiber). One end 60a of the duct portion main body 60 constitutes the aforementioned engaging end of the duct portion 6.

[0214] The duct body 60 is a hollow cylindrical portion extending in the X-axis direction and having a guide space S inside. The duct body 60 of this embodiment is formed from one side of the device body A in the X-axis direction ( Figure 1 The end of the right side of the Figure 1 the left side of the end, and the other side ( Figure 11 The end portion 60b of the duct portion main body 60 is closed. The duct portion main body 60 is arranged at a position overlapping with the gas discharge valve 132 of the energy storage element 10 when viewed from the Z-axis direction.

[0215] Specifically, the duct portion main body 60 includes: a bottom wall portion 61 opposing the device main body A (multiple energy storage elements 10), a pair of side wall portions 62 extending from both ends of the bottom wall portion 61 in the Y-axis direction to one side in the Z-axis direction, and a top wall portion 63 connecting the end portions of the pair of side wall portions 62 on one side in the Z-axis direction. The space enclosed by these bottom wall portion 61, the pair of side wall portions 62, and the top wall portion 63 constitutes a guide space S that can guide the gas discharged from the gas discharge valve 132 to the joint portion 66.

[0216] The bottom wall portion 61 is a strip-shaped portion with its width along the Y-axis and its length along the X-axis. It is located between the duct body 60 and the device body A, sandwiching the seal portion 7. The bottom wall portion 61 has a duct through-hole 611 at a position corresponding to the seal through-hole 71 of the seal portion 7 (in other words, a position corresponding to the gas discharge valve 132 of the energy storage element 10), connecting the seal through-hole 71 with the guide space S. Specifically, the bottom wall portion 61 has a plurality of duct through-holes 611 arranged in a row at intervals along the X-axis.

[0217] The plurality of latched portions 65 are areas upon which the intermediate latching tabs 22A, 22B of the intermediate adjacent members 2A, 2B engage (or, in this embodiment, hook) to secure the duct portion 6 relative to the intermediate adjacent members 2A, 2B (i.e., the device body A). The latched portions 65 protrude outward from the side wall portion 62 in the Y-axis direction. These latched portions 65 are arranged at intervals along the X-axis on the side wall portion 62. More specifically, the latched portions 65 are arranged at positions corresponding to the duct portion through-holes 611 of the bottom wall portion 61 in the X-axis direction.

[0218] Among the plurality of engaged portions 65 arranged at intervals along the X-axis direction on the side wall portion 62, the engaged portion 65a closest to the joint portion 66 has an arcuate abutment portion 65t at its outer end in the X-axis direction and at one end in the Z-axis direction when viewed from the Y-axis direction. The engaged portion 65a having the abutment portion 65t is arranged on the pair of side wall portions 62.

[0219] The joint portion 66 is a portion that is connected to another component and can release gas guided to one end portion 60a of the duct body 60 to the other component. It extends in the X-axis direction from one end portion 60a of the duct body 60. The joint portion 66 of this embodiment is cylindrical and connects the guide space S with the external space.

[0220] The engaging portion 67 is a portion protruding from one end portion 60a of the duct body 60 in the X-axis direction and is inserted into the recess 260 (see FIG. 2 ) of the engaged portion 26C of the end adjacent member 2C. Figure 17 In the power storage device 1 of this embodiment, the engaging portion 67 engages with the end adjacent member 2C on one side in the X-axis direction (i.e., the end 60 a closer to the duct body 60 ) of the pair of end adjacent members 2C.

[0221] The engaging portion 67 has a curved surface 67a on one side in the Z-axis direction. Specifically, the curved surface 67a is curved so as to be arc-shaped when viewed from the Y-axis direction. The engaging portion 67 of this embodiment is a portion that is elongated and rectangular in the Y-axis direction when viewed from the Z-axis direction. Both ends in the Y-axis direction of the front end portion of the end adjacent member 2C that is opposite to the blocking surface portion 264 of the engaged portion 26C are arc-shaped when viewed from the Z-axis direction (see FIG. Figure 12 ).

[0222] In the duct portion 6 constructed as described above, when the duct portion 6 is attached to the device body A with the seal portion 7 interposed therebetween, the duct portion 6 can be mounted on the device body A. Figure 13As shown, the locking piece bodies 221A and 221B of the corresponding intermediate adjacent members 2A and 2B are located between adjacent locked portions 65 spaced apart in the X-axis direction. Furthermore, the locking portions 222A and 222B extending from these locking piece bodies 221A and 221B abut (engage) from one side in the Z-axis direction against the locked portion 65 adjacent to these locking piece bodies 221A and 221B in the X-axis direction. As a result, the duct portion 6 is locked relative to the device body A (intermediate adjacent members 2A and 2B).

[0223] The duct portion 6 is attached to the device body A as follows.

[0224] First, the engaging portion 67 of the duct portion 6 is inserted into the engaged portion 26C (specifically, the recessed portion 260) of one end adjacent member 2C so that the duct portion 6 (specifically, the duct portion main body 60) is inclined relative to the device main body A (see Figure 14 The duct portion 6 is in a first posture α1).

[0225] Specifically, the duct portion 6 is aligned with a first center line C1 extending in the stacking direction of the device body A (a line extending along the X-axis direction from the center position of the device body A in the Y-axis direction) when viewed from the Z-axis direction. Figure 2 ) overlap, and when viewed from the Y-axis direction, it becomes a second center line C2 extending in the stacking direction of the device body A (a line extending along the X-axis direction from the center position of the device body A in the Z-axis direction: refer to Figure 14 ) in an inclined manner, the engaging portion 67 of the duct portion 6 is inserted into the engaged portion 26C (detailedly, the recessed portion 260) of one end adjacent member 2C (refer to Figure 15 ).

[0226] At this time, the engaging portion 67 of the duct portion 6 is inserted into the engaged portion 26C (recess 260) of the one end adjacent member 2C to a position where the abutting portion 65t of the engaged portion 65a of the joint portion 66, which is located closest to the side wall portion 62 of the duct portion main body 60, abuts against the corresponding guide portion 25C of the one end adjacent member 2C (see FIG. Figure 16 ).

[0227] In this state, the duct portion 6 is rotated along the XZ plane (see FIG. 1 ) so that the other end portion 60b of the duct portion main body 60 is inserted into the engaging portion 67 of the engaged portion 26C and moves toward the other end portion between the pair of guide portions 25C of the adjacent member 2C. Figure 14 The duct portion 6 is in the first posture α1 to the fifth posture α5).

[0228] During the rotation of the duct portion 6, the contact portion 65t of the locked portion 65a that contacts the guide portion 25C is arc-shaped when viewed from the Y-axis direction, and the engaging portion 67 has a curved surface 67a at a position closest to the restricting portion 265 of the engaged portion 26C. Therefore, even if they contact each other, the rotation can be carried out smoothly. In the power storage device 1 of this embodiment, during the rotation of the duct portion 6, the guide portion 25C contacts the contact portion 65t of the locked portion 65a, and the curved surface 67a of the engaging portion 67 contacts the restricting portion 265 of the engaged portion 26C. However, when the duct portion 6 is in the fifth posture α5, a gap is formed between the guide portion 25C and the locked portion 65a (see FIG. 2 ). Figure 13 ), a small gap is formed between the curved surface 67a of the engaging portion 67 and the restricting portion 265 of the engaged portion 26C (see Figure 17 ).

[0229] As the duct body 60 rotates, it is pressed between the pair of first intermediate locking pieces 22A of the first intermediate adjacent member 2A and between the pair of second intermediate locking pieces 22B of the second intermediate adjacent member 2B. As a result, the intermediate locking pieces 22A and 22B are engaged with the corresponding locked portions 65 of the duct 6 (in the example of this embodiment, they are hooked: see Figure 13 ), whereby the duct portion 6 is locked (fixed) relative to the device body A.

[0230] Return to Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 The plate portion C includes a plurality of bus bars B, a plate portion body 8 that accommodates the plurality of bus bars B, and a wiring harness 9 having a plurality of electric wires connected to the bus bars B. Figure 2 In FIG. 1 , some of the bus bars B arranged in the plate portion C are shown outside the plate portion C for the purpose of explaining the structure.

[0231] The plurality of bus bars B are conductive plate-shaped members made of metal or other materials, and connect the terminals 14 of different energy storage elements 10. These bus bars B connect the terminals 14 of adjacent energy storage elements 10, thereby providing electrical continuity. In this embodiment, the bus bars B are welded to the terminals 14.

[0232] The wire harness 9 includes a cable 91 having a plurality of electric wires and a connector 92 disposed at an end of the cable 91. One end of the electric wires in the cable 91 is connected to a bus bar B or the like, and the other end of the electric wires is connected to the connector 92.

[0233] The cable portion 91 is formed by bundling at least a portion of a plurality of electrical wires whose ends are connected to busbars B or the like. The cable portion 91 is disposed on the plate body 8 with one end protruding from the plate body 8 in the X-axis direction. A connector 92 is attached to the protruding tip of the cable portion 91. In this embodiment, two connectors 92 are multi-core connectors.

[0234] The plate body 8 is a plate-shaped member or component made of an insulating material such as resin, and covers the surface where the terminals 14 of the device body A are arranged. The plate body 8 is a plate-shaped component whose dimension in the Z-axis direction is smaller than its dimensions in the X-axis and Y-axis directions. When viewed from the Z-axis direction, it has a rectangular shape corresponding to the size of the device body A. The plate body 8 includes a bus bar housing 81 that houses the bus bar B connected to the terminals 14 of the energy storage element 10, a wire housing 82 for housing the wire harness 9, and multiple covers 83. The plate body 8 includes a duct housing 85 that exposes a portion of the laminate D (in this embodiment, the gas discharge valve 132 of the energy storage element 10) when viewed from the plate C toward the device body A (i.e., when viewed from one side to the other in the Z-axis direction) when the duct 6 is not in place.

[0235] The plate body 8 of this embodiment includes two bus bar housing portions 81 arranged in the Y-axis direction at positions sandwiching the duct arrangement portion 85 , and a plurality of connection portions 84 extending in the Y-axis direction and connecting the two bus bar housing portions 81 . The plurality of connection portions 84 are arranged at intervals in the X-axis direction.

[0236] The two bus bar housing portions 81 house a plurality of bus bars B in a state where at least one (two in the example of the present embodiment) bus bar B is surrounded by a wall.

[0237] The electric wire arrangement portion 82 is a groove-shaped portion in the plate body 8 , and a cable portion 91 of the wire harness 9 is arranged inside.

[0238] The plurality of lids 83 are plate-shaped portions that openably and closably close the openings on one end of the wall surrounding the bus bar B in the Z-axis direction within the bus bar housing 81. The lids 83 are rectangular plates, with a portion of their periphery connected to a portion of the wall surrounding the bus bar B.

[0239] The energy storage device 1 of the first embodiment, configured as described above, includes: a plurality of energy storage elements 10 arranged along the X-axis direction (first direction) and having a gas discharge valve 132 arranged in the Z-axis direction (second direction) perpendicular to the X-axis direction; a pair of end-adjacent members (end members) 2C arranged on either side of the plurality of energy storage elements 10 in the X-axis direction; and a duct portion 6 overlapping the gas discharge valve 132 in the Z-axis direction. The duct portion 6 includes: a duct body 60 extending in the X-axis direction and guiding gas discharged from the gas discharge valve 132 in the X-axis direction; a joint portion 66 arranged at one end 60a of the duct body 60 in the X-axis direction, connected to another member so that gas guided to the one end 60a can be released to the other member; and an engaging portion 67 arranged at one end 60a of the duct body 60 and engaging with the other end-adjacent member 2C in the X-axis direction of the pair of end-adjacent members 2C.

[0240] As described above, the engagement portion 67, which is disposed along with the joint portion 66 at one end 60a of the duct body 60, engages with the end adjacent member 2C. This suppresses movement of the joint portion 66 relative to the end adjacent member 2C when a force is applied to the duct 6 due to, for example, vibration applied to the energy storage device 1 or pressure from the gas discharge valve 132 of the energy storage element 10. This also suppresses movement (relative movement) of the joint portion 66 relative to other members. Thus, in the energy storage device 1 of this embodiment, gas leakage from the joint portion 66 to other members (such as a hose or pipe) can be effectively suppressed.

[0241] In the electricity storage device 1 of this embodiment, one of the pair of end-adjacent members 2C (i.e., the end member 2C facing the joint portion 6 in the X-axis direction) has an engaged portion 26C at its end in the Z-axis direction (second direction) facing the gas discharge valve 132. The engaging portion 67 extends from one end 60a of the duct body 60 in the X-axis direction (first direction). The engaged portion 26C includes a restricting portion (first portion) 265 that faces the engaging portion 67 from the side opposite the plurality of electricity storage elements 10 in the Z-axis direction and extends in a plane perpendicular to the Z-axis direction; and a reinforcing portion (second portion) 266 that protrudes from the end edge of the restricting portion 265 in a direction away from the plurality of electricity storage elements 10 in the Z-axis direction and extends along the end edge of the restricting portion 265.

[0242] According to this electricity storage device 1, the strength of the restricting portion 265 is enhanced by the reinforcing portion 266. Therefore, when the duct portion 6 (specifically, one end portion 60a of the duct portion main body 60) attempts to move in the Z-axis direction away from the plurality of electricity storage elements 10 (the end adjacent member 2C with which the engaging portion 67 engages), the restricting portion 265 is less likely to deform, thereby more effectively suppressing such movement of the duct portion 6. Consequently, gas leakage from the joint portion 66 and other components can be more effectively suppressed.

[0243] The power storage device of the present invention is not limited to the first embodiment described above, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. The structure of one embodiment can be added to the structure of another embodiment, and a portion of the structure of one embodiment can be replaced with the structure of another embodiment. Furthermore, a portion of the structure of one embodiment can be deleted.

[0244] In the energy storage device 1 of the first embodiment described above, the engaging portion 67 of the duct portion 6 engages with a resin member (the end adjacent member 2C in the example of the embodiment described above), but this is not limiting. Alternatively, the engaging portion 67 of the duct portion 6 may engage with a metal member (the terminal portion 31). In other words, any configuration is sufficient as long as the engaging end portion of the duct portion 6 (the end portion located near the joint portion 66) engages with either of a pair of members (end members) disposed on either side of the plurality of energy storage elements 10 in the X-axis direction (the first direction).

[0245] In the electricity storage device 1 of the first embodiment, the duct portion 6 has a single portion (the engaging portion 67 in the example of the embodiment) that engages with the end member (one of a pair of members arranged on both sides of the plurality of electricity storage elements 10 in the X-axis direction: in the example of the embodiment, the end adjacent member 2C). However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. The duct portion 6 may also have a plurality of portions at the engaging end portion that engage with the end member (see FIG. Figure 33 as well as Figure 34 ).

[0246] like Figure 33 as well as Figure 34 As shown, the duct portion 6B may also have two engaging portions (a first engaging portion 671 and a second engaging portion 672) protruding (extending) from an end portion 60a on one side of the duct portion main body 60 toward the outside in the X-axis direction, and the two engaging portions 671 and 672 are arranged at intervals along the Z-axis direction.

[0247] In this case, the following structure is preferred: when the duct portion 6 is mounted on the device body A, with the duct portion 6 tilted relative to the device body A, the engaging end portion (engaging portion 67, etc.) of the duct portion 6 is engaged with the end member, and the duct portion 6 is rotated with the engaged portion as the rotation center and pressed between a pair of intermediate locking pieces 22A, 22B of the intermediate adjacent members 2A, 2B, thereby engaging the engaged portion 65 of the duct portion 6 with the intermediate locking pieces 22A, 22B of the corresponding intermediate adjacent members 2A, 2B.

[0248] The specific engagement structure of the engaging end portion of the duct portion 6 and the end member (in the example of the above embodiment, the end adjacent member 2C) is not limited. In the power storage device 1 of the above embodiment, the duct portion 6 and the end adjacent member 2C are engaged by inserting the engaging portion 67 protruding from the duct portion main body 60 of the duct portion 6 into the recessed portion 260 of the end adjacent member 2C. However, a structure in which the engaging end portion of the duct portion 6 and the end member are engaged by hooking or fitting, etc., may also be employed.

[0249] In the duct portion 6 of the first embodiment described above, the entire duct portion 6 is composed of one member, but may be composed of a plurality of members. Figure 33 as well as Figure 34 In the example shown, the duct portion 6B can also be formed by joining two members in the Z-axis direction. The duct portion 6B is composed of a first member 601 on the other side in the Z-axis direction (the side facing the energy storage element 10) and a second member 602 on one side in the Z-axis direction (the side opposite the energy storage element 10). The joining method between the first member 601 and the second member 602 is arbitrary, and examples include welding (such as vibration welding) and adhesive bonding.

[0250] In this manner, when the duct portion 6B is composed of a plurality of members in the Z-axis direction, only one member in one end portion 60a needs to have the engaging portion 67. Figure 33 as well as Figure 34 In the illustrated example, at one end portion 60a, the first member 601 has a first engaging portion 671, and the second member 602 has a second engaging portion 672. In the duct portion 6B, only the first member 601 may have the engaging portion (first engaging portion) 671, or only the second member 602 may have the engaging portion (second engaging portion) 672.

[0251] The first engaging portion 671 and the second engaging portion 672 have the same structure as the engaging portion 67 of the first embodiment. The first engaging portion 671 and the second engaging portion 672 are rectangular portions that are elongated in the Y-axis direction when viewed from the Z-axis direction, and the two ends of the front end in the Y-axis direction are arc-shaped when viewed from the Z-axis direction. The first engaging portion 671 and the second engaging portion 672 have curved surfaces 67a that are curved to form an arc shape when viewed from the Y-axis direction. The specific structure of the first engaging portion 671 and the second engaging portion 672 is not limited to this structure.

[0252] In this manner, when the duct portion 6B has two engaging portions (the first engaging portion 671 and the second engaging portion 672), the end member (at Figure 33 as well as Figure 34 In the illustrated example, the end adjacent member 2C1 has, at one end in the Z-axis direction, a first engaged portion 26C1 with which the first engaging portion 671 engages, and a second engaged portion 26C2 with which the second engaging portion 672 engages. These first engaged portion 26C1 and second engaged portion 26C2 are arranged at intervals along the Z-axis direction at positions opposing the first engaging portion 671 and the second engaging portion 672.

[0253] The first engaged portion 26C1 has the same structure as the engaged portion 26C of the first embodiment. The second engaged portion 26C2 has an engaged through-hole 260A extending along the X-axis direction. The engaged through-hole 260A has a shape that engages with the second engaging portion 672 when viewed from the X-axis direction. The second engaging portion 672 is inserted into (or passes through) the engaged through-hole 260A. The specific structures of the first engaged portion 26C1 and the second engaged portion 26C2 are not limited. In other words, the first engaged portion 26C1 can be configured to engage with the first engaging portion 671, and the second engaged portion 26C2 can be configured to engage with the second engaging portion 672.

[0254] In this way, the duct portion 6B is connected to the end member (at the end of the pipe 6B) by two engaging portions (the first engaging portion 671 and the second engaging portion 672). Figure 33 as well as Figure 34 Since the first and second members 601, 602, arranged along the Z-axis, are engaged with the end member 2C1, the movement of the joint portion 66 relative to the end member 2C1 can be more effectively suppressed. Furthermore, since the first and second members 601, 602, respectively, are aligned along the Z-axis and engage with the end member 2C1, even if a force tending to separate the first and second members 601, 602 is exerted by, for example, the air pressure within the guide space S of the duct portion 6B, separation (e.g., peeling) of the first and second members 601, 602 can be suppressed.

[0255] In the case where the duct portion 6B has only the first engaging portion 671 as the engaging portion, even if the duct portion 6B is composed of two members (the first member 601 and the second member 602), since the first engaging portion 671 arranged at one end of the first member 601 engages with the end member 2C1, it is possible to suppress movement of the joint portion 66 when a force acts on the duct portion (members including the first member 601) 6B due to vibration applied to the energy storage device 1, pressure when gas is released from the gas discharge valve 132 of the energy storage element 10, and the like.

[0256] In the case where the duct portion 6B has only the second engaging portion 672 as the engaging portion, since the second engaging portion 672 arranged at one end of the second member 602 engages with the end member 2C1, even if a force acts on the second member 602 in the direction of separation from the first member 601 in the Z-axis direction due to pressure when gas is released from the gas discharge valve 132 of the energy storage element 10, separation (peeling, etc.) from the first member 601 can be suppressed.

[0257] In the power storage device 1 of the first embodiment described above, the duct portion 6 engages with the device body A (end-adjacent member (end member) 2C) at one end in the X-axis direction. However, the duct portion 6 may also engage with the other end in the X-axis direction. In this case, the engaging portions 67 disposed at one end and the other end of the duct portion 6 in the X-axis direction have the same structure, and the engaged portions 26C disposed at one end (end member) 2C and the other end (end member) 2C of the device body A have the same structure.

[0258] Next, refer to Figures 18 to 31 Another second embodiment and still another embodiment (hereinafter referred to as the second embodiment) of the present invention will be described. In the second embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for the same components as those in the first embodiment.

[0259] like Figures 18 to 22 As shown, an electricity storage device 1 includes a plurality of electricity storage elements 10 each having a gas discharge valve 132 and arranged in a predetermined direction (a first direction), a plurality of adjacent members 2 adjacent to the electricity storage elements 10, and a duct portion 6 overlapping the gas discharge valves 132 of the electricity storage elements 10. The electricity storage device 1 of this embodiment includes a sealing portion 7 disposed between the duct portion 6 and the electricity storage elements 10 to suppress leakage of gas therebetween.

[0260] Specifically, the power storage device 1 includes a device body A including a plurality of power storage elements 10, a duct portion 6 mounted on the device body A, and a plate portion C overlapping with a portion of the device body A where the duct portion 6 is mounted. The power storage device 1 of this embodiment includes a sealing portion 7 (see FIG. 1 ) disposed between the device body A and the duct portion 6. Figure 19 Hereinafter, the predetermined direction in which the energy storage elements 10 are arranged is defined as the X-axis direction (first direction) of the orthogonal coordinate system, the direction in which the device body A and the plate portion C are arranged is defined as the Z-axis direction (second direction) of the orthogonal coordinate system, and the direction orthogonal to the X-axis direction and the Z-axis direction is defined as the Y-axis direction (third direction) of the orthogonal coordinate system.

[0261] The device body A includes a stack D having a plurality of energy storage elements 10 and a plurality of adjacent members 2, the energy storage elements 10 and the adjacent members 2 being alternately arranged in the X-axis direction, and a holder 3 for the stack D. The device body A also includes a first fixing portion 4 for fixing the adjacent members 2 to the holder 3, and an insulating member 5 for insulating the stack D from the holder 3.

[0262] The plurality of energy storage elements 10 are primary batteries, secondary batteries, capacitors, etc. The energy storage element 10 of this embodiment is a chargeable and dischargeable non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery. More specifically, the energy storage element 10 is a lithium ion secondary battery that utilizes the movement of electrons associated with the movement of lithium ions.

[0263] Specifically, the electric storage element 1 includes an electrode body, a case 11 that houses the electrode body and the electrolyte, a terminal 14 partially exposed to the outside of the case 11, and a current collector connecting the electrode body and the terminal 14 (see FIG. Figure 22 The energy storage element 10 of this embodiment includes a pair of terminals 14. The pair of terminals 14 are located on one side of the energy storage element 10 in the Z-axis direction ( Figure 22 The ends (on the upper side) are arranged at intervals along the Y-axis direction.

[0264] In the electrode assembly, positive electrode plates and negative electrode plates are alternately stacked with separators interposed therebetween. In this electrode assembly, lithium ions move between the positive electrode plates and the negative electrode plates, thereby causing the energy storage device 10 to be charged and discharged.

[0265] The box 11 includes a box body 12 having an opening at one end in the Z-axis direction, and a plate-shaped cover 13 that blocks (closes) the opening of the box body 12. The box body 12 has a Z-axis direction. Figure 22 The box 11 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape (hexagonal shape) in which the end portion (the lower side) is blocked.

[0266] Specifically, the box body 12 includes a plate-shaped blocking portion 121 and a cylindrical body portion (peripheral wall) 122 extending from the peripheral edge of the blocking portion 121 .

[0267] The sealing portion 121 is located at the lower end of the box body 12 (i.e., serves as the bottom wall of the box body 12 when the opening is facing upward) when the box body 12 is positioned with the opening facing upward. The sealing portion 121 is rectangular and elongated in the Y-axis direction when viewed from the Z-axis direction.

[0268] The cylindrical body 122 has a square cylindrical shape, more specifically, a flattened square cylindrical shape. The cylindrical body 122 includes a pair of long wall portions 123 extending from the long sides of the periphery of the sealing portion 121, and a pair of short wall portions 124 extending from the short sides of the periphery of the sealing portion 121. The short wall portions 124 connect the ends of the pair of long wall portions 123 that face each other in the X-axis direction, thereby forming the cylindrical body 122 in a square cylindrical shape.

[0269] The cover plate 13 is a plate-shaped member that closes the opening of the box body 12. The cover plate 13 includes a rectangular cover plate body 131 that is elongated in the Y-axis direction and a gas exhaust valve 132 disposed on the cover plate body 131.

[0270] The gas discharge valve 132 discharges gas to the outside when the pressure inside the box 11 exceeds a predetermined value due to gas generated inside the box 11. In this embodiment, the gas discharge valve 132 is located in the center of the cover plate body 131 in the Y-axis direction. The gas discharge valve 132 in this embodiment has a circular shape when viewed from the Z-axis direction.

[0271] The cover plate 13 thus configured is joined to the box body 12 in a state where the peripheral edge of the cover plate 13 overlaps with the peripheral edge of the opening of the box body 12 , thereby forming the box 11 .

[0272] The pair of terminals 14 are electrically connected to the terminals 14 of other energy storage elements 10 or to external devices. Terminals 14 are formed from a conductive member. Terminals 14 are formed from a metal material with high weldability, such as aluminum or aluminum alloys, or copper or copper alloys.

[0273] The pair of terminals 14 are arranged at both ends in the Y-axis direction of the cover plate 13. That is, the pair of terminals 14 are arranged on the cover plate 13 at positions sandwiching the gas discharge valve 132 therebetween.

[0274] The above-described energy storage element 10 has a flat rectangular parallelepiped shape. Multiple energy storage elements 10 are arranged along the Z-axis, with the wider surfaces (long walls 123) of the case 11 facing each other across the adjacent member 2. In this arrangement, the gas discharge valves 132 of the energy storage elements 10 are arranged in a row along the X-axis. The terminals 14 of one of the energy storage elements 10 and the other terminal 14 are arranged along the X-axis, sandwiching the gas discharge valves 132 therebetween.

[0275] Multiple adjacent members 2 have insulating properties and are arranged between energy storage elements 10 arranged along the X-axis direction, or between an energy storage element 10 and a member arranged along the X-axis relative to the energy storage element 10 (in this embodiment, the terminal portion 31, which is part of the retaining portion 3). These multiple adjacent members 2 are formed from an insulating resin. These adjacent members 2 form flow paths R between adjacent energy storage elements 10 through which a temperature adjustment fluid (in this embodiment, a gas such as air) can flow. These multiple adjacent members 2 include multiple types of adjacent members 2A, 2B, and 2D.

[0276] Specifically, the plurality of adjacent members 2 include a plurality of intermediate adjacent members (second adjacent members) 2A and 2B arranged between adjacent energy storage elements 10, and a plurality of end adjacent members (first adjacent members) 2D arranged between the energy storage elements 10 and the holder 3 (specifically, the terminal portion 31). The plurality of intermediate adjacent members include first intermediate adjacent members 2A, which are not fixed to the holder 3, and second intermediate adjacent members 2B, which are fixed to the holder 3. In other words, the energy storage device 1 includes first intermediate adjacent members 2A, second intermediate adjacent members 2B, and end adjacent members 2D as adjacent members 2. The energy storage device 1 of this embodiment may also include a plurality of first intermediate adjacent members 2A, a single second intermediate adjacent member 2B, and two (a pair of) end adjacent members 2D. These plurality of first intermediate adjacent members 2A are arranged between the energy storage elements 10 in the device body A, excluding those between the energy storage elements 10 where the second intermediate adjacent members 2B are arranged.

[0277] Also like Figure 23 As shown, the plurality of first intermediate adjacent members (second adjacent members) 2A include a first intermediate main body portion (second main body portion) 21A that overlaps the energy storage element 10 when viewed from the X-axis direction, and a first intermediate locking piece (locking piece) 22A that locks the duct portion 6 relative to the first intermediate main body portion 21A. In this embodiment, locking refers to the restraint of movement of one part by the abutment (contact) of two parts. The first locking piece 22A abuts the locked portion 65 of the duct portion 6 by hooking or other means, thereby securing it to the duct portion 6.

[0278] Specifically, the first intermediate adjacent member 2A includes a first intermediate main body portion 21A positioned between the energy storage elements 10 adjacent to each other in the X-axis direction and extending in a plane direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction, and a first intermediate locking piece 22A extending (protruding) from the first intermediate main body portion 21A toward one side in the Z-axis direction and locking the duct portion 6 relative to the first intermediate main body portion 21A.

[0279] The first intermediate adjacent member 2A includes a first intermediate locking portion 27A that extends (protrudes) from the first intermediate main body portion 21A toward one side in the Z-axis direction and locks the plate portion C; a positioning protrusion 28A that extends (protrudes) from the first intermediate main body portion 21A toward one side in the Z-axis direction and positions the plate portion C; and a first intermediate restricting portion 23A that restricts movement of the energy storage element 10 adjacent to the first intermediate main body portion 21A relative to the first intermediate main body portion 21A.

[0280] The first intermediate adjacent member 2A of this embodiment includes two (a pair of) first intermediate locking pieces 22A, two (a pair of) first intermediate locking portions 27A, and two (a pair of) positioning protrusions 28A. These first intermediate adjacent members 2A form flow paths R between adjacent energy storage elements 10 through which a temperature adjustment fluid can flow.

[0281] The first intermediate body portion 21A is a portion that abuts against the long wall portion 123 of the casing 11 of the energy storage element 10. This first intermediate body portion 21A, along with the adjacent energy storage element 10, forms a flow path R between the adjacent energy storage element 10, through which a temperature adjustment fluid can flow. In this embodiment, the first intermediate body portion 21A has a rectangular plate shape corresponding to the size of the energy storage element 10 when viewed from the X-axis direction, and a cross-sectional shape along the XZ plane (a plane including the X-axis and Z-axis directions) that is a rectangular corrugated shape.

[0282] Two first intermediate locking pieces 22A extend from one end of the first intermediate body portion 21A in the Z-axis direction at intervals along the Y-axis. These two first intermediate locking pieces 22A extend in the Z-axis direction at positions adjacent to the duct portion 6 in the Y-axis direction. The two first intermediate locking pieces 22A are plate-shaped with their thickness in the Y-axis direction (in other words, they are plate-shaped along the XZ plane). The interval between these two first intermediate locking pieces 22A in the Y-axis direction corresponds to the Y-axis dimension of the duct portion 6.

[0283] In detail, the two first intermediate locking pieces 22A include a locking piece body 221A extending from the first intermediate main body portion 21A along the duct portion 6 in the Z-axis direction (the opposing direction of the gas exhaust valve 132 and the duct portion 6), and a locking portion 222A engaged with the duct portion 6 (specifically, the duct portion body 60 described later).

[0284] The locking piece body 221A is a strip-shaped portion extending straight from the first intermediate body portion 21A in the Z-axis direction. The locking piece body 221A of this embodiment is a strip-shaped portion whose position in the Z-axis direction is constant in the X-axis direction.

[0285] The locking portion 222A extends in the X-axis direction (the direction in which the duct portion 6 extends) from a position in the locking piece body 221A spaced apart from the first intermediate body portion 21A to one side in the Z-axis direction. In this embodiment, the locking portion 222A extends from the locking piece body 221A to one side and the other side in the X-axis direction. In other words, the first intermediate locking piece 22A has two locking portions 222A.

[0286] The two first intermediate locking portions 27A extend from one end of the first intermediate body 21A in the Z-axis direction, spaced apart in the Y-axis direction. These first intermediate locking portions 27A are arranged spaced apart in the Y-axis direction with the two first intermediate locking pieces 22A positioned therebetween. The first intermediate locking portions 27A have hook portions 271A at their front ends. These hook portions 271A increase in size in the Y-axis direction toward the first intermediate body 21A when viewed from the X-axis direction. These hook portions 271A hook (engage) with a predetermined portion of the plate C, thereby securing the plate C to the device body A.

[0287] Two positioning protrusions 28A extend from one end of the first intermediate body 21A in the Z-axis direction, spaced apart from each other in the Y-axis direction. Positioning protrusions 28A are positioned between the first intermediate retaining piece 22A and the first intermediate retaining portion 27A corresponding to the first intermediate retaining piece 22A. These positioning protrusions 28A are inserted into corresponding holes in the plate C to position the plate C relative to the device body A.

[0288] The first intermediate restricting portion 23A extends from a corner of the rectangular first intermediate body portion 21A in the X-axis direction. It abuts the energy storage element 10 (specifically, the case 11) adjacent to the first intermediate body portion 21A from the outside in the YZ plane, thereby restricting the relative movement of the energy storage element 10 with respect to the first intermediate body portion 21A in the YZ plane. In this embodiment, the first intermediate restricting portion 23A extends from the first intermediate body portion 21A toward one side and the other side in the X-axis direction.

[0289] Also like Figure 24 As shown, the second intermediate abutting member 2B includes a second intermediate main body portion (second main body portion) 21B and a second intermediate locking piece (locking piece) 22B that locks the duct portion 6 relative to the second intermediate main body portion 21B.

[0290] Specifically, the second intermediate adjacent member 2B includes a second intermediate main body portion 21B positioned between the energy storage elements 10 adjacent to each other in the X-axis direction and extending in a plane direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction, and a second intermediate locking piece (locking piece) 22B extending (protruding) from the second intermediate main body portion 21B toward one side in the Z-axis direction and locking the duct portion 6 relative to the second intermediate main body portion 21B.

[0291] The second intermediate adjacent member 2B includes a second intermediate locking portion 27B that extends (protrudes) from the second intermediate main body portion 21B toward one side in the Z-axis direction and locks the plate portion C; a second intermediate limiting portion 23B that limits movement of the energy storage element 10 adjacent to the second intermediate main body portion 21B relative to the second intermediate main body portion 21B; and a second fixing portion 24B for fixing the second intermediate adjacent member 2B to the holding portion 3.

[0292] The second intermediate adjacent member 2B of this embodiment includes two (a pair of) second intermediate locking pieces 22B and two (a pair of) second intermediate locking portions 27B. The second intermediate adjacent member 2B forms a flow path R between the adjacent energy storage element 10 through which a temperature regulating fluid can flow.

[0293] The second intermediate body portion 21B is a portion that abuts the long wall portion 123 of the casing 11 of the energy storage element 10, facing the latter. This second intermediate body portion 21B, along with the adjacent energy storage element 10, forms a flow path R between the second intermediate body portion 21B and the adjacent energy storage element 10, through which a temperature-regulating fluid can flow. In this embodiment, the second intermediate body portion 21B has a larger dimension in the X-axis direction than the first intermediate body portion 21A (i.e., it is thicker). The second intermediate body portion 21B has a rectangular plate shape corresponding to the size of the energy storage element 10 when viewed from the X-axis direction. This second intermediate body portion 21B has a plurality of ridges 211B extending in the Y-axis direction and spaced apart in the Z-axis direction. These ridges 211B protrude from a surface 212B of the second intermediate body portion 21B that faces the energy storage element 10.

[0294] The two second intermediate retaining pieces 22B extend from positions spaced apart in the Y-axis direction at one end of the second intermediate main body 21B in the Z-axis direction. Similar to the two first intermediate retaining pieces 22A of the first intermediate adjacent member 2A, the spacing between the two second intermediate retaining pieces 22B in the Y-axis direction corresponds to the Y-axis dimension of the duct portion 6. Thus, the second intermediate retaining pieces 22B extend along the duct portion 6 in the Z-axis direction. The structure of the two second intermediate retaining pieces 22B is identical to that of the first intermediate retaining piece 22A. Specifically, the second intermediate retaining piece 22B includes a retaining piece body 221B and a retaining portion 222B. The Z-axis dimension of the second intermediate retaining piece 22B is identical to that of the first intermediate retaining piece 22A of the first intermediate adjacent member 2A.

[0295] The two second intermediate locking portions 27B extend from one end of the second intermediate main body 21B in the Z-axis direction, spaced apart from each other in the Y-axis direction. Similar to the two first intermediate locking portions 27A of the first intermediate adjacent member 2A, these second intermediate locking portions 27B are spaced apart in the Y-axis direction with the two second intermediate locking pieces 22B positioned therebetween. The structure of the second intermediate locking portions 27B is identical to that of the first intermediate locking portions 27A. Specifically, the second intermediate locking portions 27B have a hooking portion 271B at their front ends.

[0296] The second intermediate restricting portion 23B extends from a corner of the rectangular second intermediate body portion 21B in the X-axis direction. It abuts the energy storage element 10 (specifically, the case 11) adjacent to the second intermediate body portion 21B from the outside in the YZ plane, thereby restricting the relative movement of the energy storage element 10 with respect to the second intermediate body portion 21B in the YZ plane. In this embodiment, the second intermediate restricting portion 23B extends from the second intermediate body portion 21B toward one side and the other side in the X-axis direction.

[0297] The second fixing portions 24B are located at the end of the second intermediate body portion 21B in the Y-axis direction. These multiple second fixing portions 24B engage with the first fixing portions 4 to secure the second intermediate adjacent member 2B to the holding portion 3. In this embodiment, the second fixing portions 24B are insert nuts. In this embodiment, the first fixing portion 4 is a bolt that passes through the holding portion 3 and screws into the second fixing portions 24B, thereby securing (fixing) the holding portion 3 to the second intermediate adjacent member 2B.

[0298] Also like Figure 25 As shown, the two end adjacent members 2D have an end main body portion (first main body portion) 21D that overlaps the energy storage element 10 when viewed from the X-axis direction, and a pair of guide portions 25D extending from the end main body portion 21D in the Z-axis direction. Each end adjacent member 2D has an end restriction portion 23D that restricts movement of the energy storage element 10 adjacent to the end main body portion 21D relative to the end main body portion 21D. These two end adjacent members 2D form a flow path R between the adjacent energy storage elements 10, through which a temperature adjustment fluid can flow.

[0299] The end body portion 21D is a portion that abuts the long wall portion 123 of the energy storage element 10. Similar to the first intermediate body portion 21A of the first adjacent intermediate member 2A and the second intermediate body portion 21B of the second adjacent intermediate member 2B, this end body portion 21D also forms a flow path R between the adjacent energy storage element 10, through which a temperature-adjusting fluid can flow. The end body portion 21D of this embodiment has a rectangular plate shape corresponding to the size of the energy storage element 10 when viewed from the X-axis. This end body portion 21D has a plurality of ridges 211D extending in the Y-axis direction and arranged at intervals in the Z-axis direction. These ridges 211D protrude from a surface 212D of the end body portion 21D that faces the energy storage element 10.

[0300] The end restraining portion 23D extends from a corner of the rectangular end body portion 21D in the X-axis direction. It abuts the energy storage element 10 (specifically, the case 11) adjacent to the end body portion 21D from the outside in the YZ plane, thereby restraining the relative movement of the energy storage element 10 with respect to the end body portion 21D in the YZ plane. In this embodiment, the end restraining portion 23D extends from the end body portion 21D in the X-axis direction toward the energy storage element 10.

[0301] Also like Figure 26 as well as Figure 27 As shown, a pair of guide portions 25D extend along the duct portion 6 on both sides of the duct portion 6 in the Y-axis direction. The pair of guide portions 25D are arranged at intervals corresponding to the size of the duct portion 6 in the Y-axis direction, and the guide portions 25D extend from the end body portion 21D along the duct portion 6 in the Z-axis direction.

[0302] Also like Figure 28 As shown, these guide portions 25D are longer in the Z-axis direction than the first intermediate retaining piece 22A of the first intermediate adjacent member 2A. Since the dimensions of the first intermediate retaining piece 22A of the first intermediate adjacent member 2 and the second intermediate retaining piece 22B of the second intermediate adjacent member 2B are the same in the Z-axis direction, the guide portions 25D are longer than the second intermediate retaining piece 22B of the second intermediate adjacent member 2B. Preferably, the dimensions of the guide portions 25D in the Z-axis direction are smaller than those of the duct portion 6 (specifically, the duct portion main body 60 described below).

[0303] The Y-axis dimension (thickness) of the guide portion 25D is greater than the Y-axis dimension (thickness) of the first intermediate locking piece 22A of the first intermediate adjacent member 2A and the Y-axis dimension (thickness) of the second intermediate locking piece 22B of the second intermediate adjacent member 2B. Consequently, the guide portion 25D has a greater flexural rigidity than the first and second intermediate locking pieces 22A, 22B. Specifically, the flexural rigidity of the pair of guide portions 25D in the direction of increasing spacing between their front end portions (the Y-axis direction) is greater than the flexural rigidity of the first intermediate locking piece 22A of the first intermediate adjacent member 2A, and greater than the flexural rigidity of the second intermediate locking piece 22B of the second intermediate adjacent member 2B.

[0304] Specifically, the guide portion 25D includes a guide surface 251D for guiding the duct portion 6 to the installation position when the duct portion 6 is installed in the device body A, and an induction surface 252D (see FIG. 1 ) for making it easier for the duct portion 6 to enter between the pair of guide portions 25D (i.e., between the pair of guide surfaces 251D). Figure 25 ).

[0305] The guide surface 251D is a strip-shaped surface extending along the XZ plane and extending in the Z-axis direction. The guiding surface 252D is located at the front end of the guide portion 25D. It is located outward in the Y-axis direction (away from the Y-axis center of the end adjacent member 2D) as it moves toward the side in the Z-axis direction. It is also inclined relative to the guide surface 251D. The guide surface 251D and the guiding surface 252D are connected in the Z-axis direction.

[0306] like Figures 18 to 22 As shown, the holding portion 3 surrounds the stacked body D to hold the stacked body D. Specifically, the holding portion 3 surrounds the plurality of energy storage elements 10 and the plurality of adjacent members 2 to hold the plurality of energy storage elements 10 and the plurality of adjacent members 2 together. The holding portion 3 is made of metal, resin, or the like.

[0307] Specifically, the holding portion 3 includes a pair of terminal portions 31 disposed on both sides of the stack D in the X-axis direction, an extension portion 32 extending in the X-axis direction along the stack D at a position aligned with the stack D in the Y-axis direction, and a connecting portion 33 connecting the terminal portions 31 and the extension portion 32. The holding portion 3 of this embodiment includes a pair of extension portions 32 disposed at intervals in the Y-axis direction so that the stack D is positioned therebetween.

[0308] The pair of terminal portions 31 are arranged so that the end adjacent member 2D is sandwiched between them and the energy storage element 10 arranged at the end in the X-axis direction. Specifically, the pair of terminal portions 31 have a terminal portion body 311 extending along the YZ plane direction and a flange portion 313 extending from the terminal portion body 311 in a direction away from the energy storage element 10 in the X-axis direction.

[0309] The terminal portion body 311 is rectangular in shape and has a size corresponding to the storage element 10 when viewed from the X-axis direction. Specifically, the terminal portion body 311 is rectangular in shape and is elongated in the Y-axis direction. It has a plurality of through holes 312 arranged at intervals along the Z-axis direction at both ends in the Y-axis direction (see FIG. Figure 22 The flange portion 313 extends from one end portion of the terminal portion main body 311 in the Z-axis direction in the X-axis direction and in the Y-axis direction.

[0310] The pair of extension portions 32 includes: an extension portion main body 320 that is opposite to the short wall portion 124 of the energy storage element 10 with the insulating member 5 interposed therebetween; a first piece portion 321 that extends from one end portion of the extension portion main body 320 in the Z-axis direction along the cover plate 13 of the energy storage element 10 in the Y-axis direction and in the X-axis direction; a second piece portion 322 that extends from the other end portion of the extension portion main body 320 in the Z-axis direction along the sealing portion 121 of the energy storage element 10 in the Y-axis direction and in the X-axis direction; and a pair of third piece portions 323 that extend from the end portion of the extension portion main body 320 in the X-axis direction along the terminal portion 31 in the Y-axis direction and in the Z-axis direction.

[0311] The extension body 320 is a plate-shaped portion extending along the short wall portion 124 of the energy storage element 10. It has a plurality of vents 3201 extending along the Y-axis to allow a temperature adjustment fluid to flow into or out of the flow path R. It also has a plurality of first fixing holes 3202 extending along the Y-axis at positions corresponding to the second fixing portion 24B of the second intermediate adjacent member 2B. The first fixing portion 4 is inserted through each of these first fixing holes 3202.

[0312] The first piece 321 is a strip-shaped portion elongated in the X-axis direction, and the second piece 322 is also elongated in the X-axis direction. The width of the second piece 322 (the dimension in the Y-axis direction) is greater than the width of the first piece 321, excluding its two ends in the X-axis direction. The pair of third pieces 323 have a plurality of second fixing holes 3231 spaced apart in the Z-axis direction. The second fixing holes 3231 are located at positions corresponding to the through-holes 312 of the terminal portion 31.

[0313] The plurality of coupling parts 33 fasten the terminal part 31 and the extension part 32 by passing through the through hole 312 of the terminal part 31 and the second fixing hole 3231 of the extension part 32 (specifically, the third piece 323). The coupling parts 33 of this embodiment are composed of bolts 331 and nuts 332.

[0314] The insulating member 5 has insulating properties. It is disposed between the extension portion 32 and the stacked body D. Specifically, the energy storage device 1 includes a pair of insulating members 5 , which cover the region of the extension portion 32 that faces the plurality of energy storage elements 10. Thus, the insulating members 5 insulate the extension portion 32 from the plurality of energy storage elements 10. A ventilation region 51 corresponding in size and shape to the ventilation opening 3201 of the extension portion main body 320 is provided in the insulating member 5 at a location corresponding to the ventilation opening 3201 of the extension portion main body 320.

[0315] The sealing portion 7 is a portion or member disposed between the device body A and the duct portion 6 to suppress gas leakage from between the device body A and the duct portion 6, and has a sealing portion through-hole 71 (see FIG. 1 ) that connects the gas discharge valve 132 to the guide space (the internal space of the duct portion 6) S. Figure 19 The sealing portion 7 extends along the X-axis at a position corresponding to the gas discharge valve 132 in the Y-axis direction at one end of the device body A in the Z-axis direction. The sealing portion 7 of this embodiment is formed of a foamed body such as a fluorine-based, silicone-based, or urethane-based resin, and seals the space between the device body A and the duct portion 6.

[0316] Specifically, the sealing portion 7 is a strip-shaped member having a width in the Y-axis direction and a length in the X-axis direction. It has a sealing portion through-hole 71 at a position corresponding to the gas discharge valve 132 of the energy storage element 10 (specifically, a position overlapping the gas discharge valve 132 when viewed from the Z-axis direction). In other words, the sealing portion 7 has a plurality of sealing portion through-holes 71 arranged in a row at intervals along the X-axis direction.

[0317] The width (dimension in the Y-axis direction) of the sealing portion 7 in this embodiment is sized to correspond to the duct portion 6. The sealing portion through-hole 71 has a shape and size corresponding to the gas discharge valve 132. In this embodiment, the sealing portion through-hole 71 is a circular hole having the same or substantially the same diameter as the gas discharge valve 132.

[0318] The duct portion 6 is arranged along the X-axis direction in a state where it faces the gas exhaust valve 132 in the Z-axis direction. Figures 18 to 21 As shown, the duct portion 6 of the present embodiment extends along the energy storage elements 10 from the energy storage element 10 at one end in the X-axis direction to the energy storage element 10 at the other end.

[0319] Specifically, as Figure 29 as well as Figure 30 As shown, the duct portion 6 includes a duct body 60 that guides gas as it is discharged from the gas discharge valve 132 of the energy storage element 10, and a latched portion 65 that engages with (or, in this embodiment, hooks onto) the intermediate latching tabs 22A and 22B of the intermediate adjacent components 2A and 2B. The duct portion 6 also includes a joint portion 66 that connects to another component and enables the release of gas within the duct body 60 (in the guide space S) to that component. The duct portion 6 in this embodiment is made of a resin such as polybutylene terephthalate or a glass fiber blended resin (polybutylene terephthalate-glass fiber).

[0320] The duct body 60 is a hollow cylindrical portion extending in the X-axis direction and having a guide space S inside. The duct body 60 of this embodiment is formed from one side of the device body A in the X-axis direction ( Figure 18 The left side of the Figure 18 The duct body 60 is arranged at a position overlapping with the gas discharge valve 132 of the storage element 10 when viewed from the Z-axis direction (see FIG. Figure 21 ).

[0321] Specifically, the duct portion main body 60 includes: a bottom wall portion 61 opposing the device main body A (multiple energy storage elements 10), a pair of side wall portions 62 extending from both ends of the bottom wall portion 61 in the Y-axis direction to one side in the Z-axis direction, and a top wall portion 63 connecting the end portions of the pair of side wall portions 62 on one side in the Z-axis direction. The space enclosed by these bottom wall portion 61, the pair of side wall portions 62, and the top wall portion 63 constitutes a guide space S that can guide the gas discharged from the gas discharge valve 132 to the joint portion 66.

[0322] The bottom wall portion 61 is a strip-shaped portion with its width along the Y-axis and its length along the X-axis. It is located between the duct body 60 and the device body A, sandwiching the seal portion 7. The bottom wall portion 61 has a duct through-hole 611 at a position corresponding to the seal through-hole 71 of the seal portion 7 (in other words, a position corresponding to the gas discharge valve 132 of the energy storage element 10), connecting the seal through-hole 71 with the guide space S. Specifically, the bottom wall portion 61 has a plurality of duct through-holes 611 arranged in a row at intervals along the X-axis.

[0323] The pair of side walls 62 are strip-shaped portions extending along the XZ plane. Specifically, they are strip-shaped portions with a width along the Z axis and a length along the X axis. Multiple latching portions 65 are arranged on these side walls 62, projecting outward in the Y axis. These latching portions 65 engage (or, in this embodiment, hook) the intermediate latching tabs 22A and 22B of the intermediate adjacent members 2A and 2B to secure the duct 6 relative to the intermediate adjacent members 2A and 2B (i.e., the device body A). They are spaced apart along the X axis. Specifically, the latching portions 65 are arranged at positions corresponding to the duct through-holes 611 of the bottom wall 61 in the X axis. In this embodiment, the latching portions 65 include two types of latching portions (a first latching portion 651 and a second latching portion 652). The first latching portion 651 has a smaller dimension in the X axis than the second latching portion 652.

[0324] The joint portion 66 is a portion extending in the X-axis direction from one end portion in the X-axis direction of the duct portion main body 60. The joint portion 66 of this embodiment is cylindrical and connects the guide space S with the external space.

[0325] In the duct portion 6 constructed as described above, when it is mounted on the device body A with the seal portion 7 interposed therebetween, the locking piece main bodies 221A and 221B of the intermediate adjacent members 2A and 2B are located between the adjacent locked portions 65 (the first locked portion 651 and the second locked portion 652) spaced apart in the X-axis direction, and the locking portions 222A and 222B extending from the locking piece main bodies 221A and 221B abut (engage) from one side in the Z-axis direction against the locked portion 65 adjacent to the locking piece main bodies 221A and 221B in the X-axis direction. Thus, the duct portion 6 is locked relative to the device body A (the intermediate adjacent members 2A and 2B) (see FIG. 2 ). Figures 26 to 28 ).

[0326] Return to Figure 18 as well as Figure 19 The plate portion C includes a plurality of bus bars B, a plate portion body 8 that accommodates the plurality of bus bars B, and a wiring harness 9 having a plurality of electric wires connected to the bus bars B. Figure 19 In FIG. 1 , some of the bus bars B arranged in the plate portion C are shown outside the plate portion C for the purpose of explaining the structure.

[0327] The plurality of bus bars B are conductive plate-shaped members made of metal or other materials, and connect the terminals 14 of different energy storage elements 10. These bus bars B connect the terminals 14 of adjacent energy storage elements 10, thereby providing electrical continuity. In this embodiment, the bus bars B are welded to the terminals 14.

[0328] The wire harness 9 includes a cable 91 having a plurality of electric wires and a connector 92 disposed at an end of the cable 91. The other ends of the electric wires in the cable 91 are connected to a bus bar B or the like, and one end of the electric wires is connected to the connector 92.

[0329] The cable portion 91 is formed by bundling at least a portion of a plurality of electrical wires whose other ends are connected to busbars B and the like. The cable portion 91 is disposed on the plate body 8 with one end protruding from the plate body 8 in the X-axis direction. A connector 92 is attached to the distal end of the cable portion 91 in the protruding direction. In this embodiment, the connectors 92 are multi-core connectors, and two are disposed.

[0330] The plate body 8 is a plate-shaped member or component made of an insulating material such as resin, and covers the surface where the terminals 14 of the device body A are arranged. The plate body 8 is a plate-shaped component whose dimension in the Z-axis direction is smaller than its dimensions in the X-axis and Y-axis directions. When viewed from the Z-axis direction, it has a rectangular shape corresponding to the size of the device body A. The plate body 8 includes a bus bar housing 81 that houses the bus bar B connected to the terminals 14 of the energy storage element 10, a wire housing 82 for housing the wire harness 9, and multiple covers 83. The plate body 8 includes a duct housing 85 that exposes a portion of the laminate D (in this embodiment, the gas discharge valve 132 of the energy storage element 10) when viewed from the plate C toward the device body A (i.e., when viewed from one side to the other in the Z-axis direction) when the duct 6 is not in place.

[0331] The plate body 8 of this embodiment includes two bus bar housing portions 81 arranged in the Y-axis direction at positions sandwiching the duct arrangement portion 85 , and a plurality of connection portions 84 extending in the Y-axis direction and connecting the two bus bar housing portions 81 . The plurality of connection portions 84 are arranged at intervals in the X-axis direction.

[0332] The two bus bar housing portions 81 house a plurality of bus bars B in a state where at least one (two in the example of the present embodiment) bus bar B is surrounded by a wall.

[0333] The electric wire arrangement portion 82 is a groove-shaped portion in the plate body 8 , and a cable portion 91 of the wire harness 9 is arranged inside.

[0334] The plurality of lids 83 are plate-shaped portions that openably and closably close the openings on one end of the wall surrounding the bus bar B in the Z-axis direction within the bus bar housing 81. The lids 83 are rectangular plates, with a portion of their periphery connected to a portion of the wall surrounding the bus bar B.

[0335] In the electricity storage device 1 configured as described above, the duct portion 6 is attached to the device body A as follows.

[0336] First, with the duct portion 6 tilted relative to the stacking direction (X-axis direction) of the energy storage elements 10 in the device body A so that one end portion in the X-axis direction is closer to the device body A than the other end portion, one end portion of the duct portion 6 is pressed between a pair of guide portions 25D of an end adjacent member (one end adjacent member) 2D of the device body A corresponding to the end portion.

[0337] At this time, the end portion of the duct portion 6 on one side is moved toward the device body A while being sandwiched between the guide surfaces 251D of the pair of guide portions 25D. Figure 31 In a state where the inclination in the direction of arrow α in FIG. 1 is suppressed, the end portion is pressed in until it comes into contact with the end body portion 21D.

[0338] Next, the duct unit 6 is rotated, with its one end portion in the X-axis direction, pressed between the guide portions 25D, as the center of rotation, so that its other end portion faces between the pair of guide portions 25D of the other end-adjacent member 2D. As a result, the duct unit 6 sequentially hooks (engages) with the intermediate locking pieces 22A, 22B of the corresponding first or second intermediate adjacent member 2A, 2B, starting from the locked portion 65 closest to the one end portion in the X-axis direction, and the other end portion is pressed between the pair of guide portions 25D of the other end-adjacent member 2D, thereby attaching (fixing) the duct unit 6 to the device body A.

[0339] When the intermediate locking pieces 22A and 22B are hooked onto the corresponding locked portions 65, the corresponding portion of the duct portion 6 is pressed between the pair of intermediate locking pieces 22A and 22B, causing the pair of intermediate locking pieces 22A and 22B to bend in a direction that increases the distance between the front ends of the intermediate locking pieces 22A and 22B in the Y-axis direction (the front ends of the pair of intermediate locking pieces 22A and 22B are compressed and expanded by the duct portion 6). Furthermore, when the corresponding portion of the duct portion 6 is further pressed in and the locked portions 65 pass through the locking portions 222A and 222B of the corresponding intermediate locking pieces 22A and 22B, the deflection of the intermediate locking pieces 22A and 22B is eliminated (returning to the pre-deflection state), and the locking portions 222A and 222B of the intermediate locking pieces 22A and 22B abut against the locked portion 65 from one side in the Z-axis direction. Thus, the corresponding portions of the duct portion 6 are locked to the intermediate adjacent members 2A and 2B having the intermediate locking pieces 22A and 22B.

[0340] The energy storage device 1 of the second embodiment, configured as described above, includes: a plurality of energy storage elements 10 arranged along the X-axis direction (a first direction) and having a gas discharge valve 132 disposed in the Z-axis direction (a second direction orthogonal to the first direction); a plurality of adjacent members 2 disposed between adjacent energy storage elements 10 in the X-axis direction, or disposed adjacent to an outer side of an endmost energy storage element 10 among the plurality of energy storage elements 10 in the X-axis direction; and a duct portion 6 overlapping the gas discharge valve 132 in the Z-axis direction. Furthermore, at least one adjacent member 2D among the plurality of adjacent members 2 (in the example of the second embodiment, an end adjacent member (first adjacent member)) includes: an end main body portion (first main body portion) 21D that overlaps with the energy storage element 10 when viewed in the X-axis direction; and a pair of guide portions 25D that extend from the end main body portion 21D in the Z-axis direction and extend along the duct portion 6 on both sides of the duct portion 6 in the Y-axis direction (a third direction orthogonal to the first and second directions).

[0341] With this configuration, when the duct 6 is pressed between the pair of guides 25D during assembly of the power storage device 1 , the duct 6 is guided along the pair of guides 25D. This facilitates mounting of the duct 6 to the device body A.

[0342] The energy storage device 1 of the second embodiment includes: a plurality of energy storage elements 10 arranged along the X-axis direction (a first direction) and having a gas discharge valve 132 arranged in the Z-axis direction (a second direction orthogonal to the first direction); a plurality of adjacent members 2 arranged between adjacent energy storage elements 10 in the X-axis direction, or arranged adjacent to an outer side of an endmost energy storage element 10 among the plurality of energy storage elements 10 in the X-axis direction; and a duct portion 6 overlapping the gas discharge valve 132 in the Z-axis direction. At least one of the plurality of adjacent members 2 (in the example of the present embodiment, the end adjacent member (first adjacent member)) 2D includes an end main body portion (first main body portion) 21D that overlaps with the energy storage element 10 when viewed in the X-axis direction, and a pair of guide portions 25D that extend from the end main body portion 21D in the Z-axis direction and extend along the duct portion 6 on both sides of the duct portion 6 in the Y-axis direction. Intermediate adjacent members 2A and 2B, different from the end adjacent member 2D, among the plurality of adjacent members 2 include a first or second intermediate main body portion (second main body portion) 21A and 21B that overlaps with the energy storage element 10 when viewed in the X-axis direction, and intermediate locking pieces 22A and 22B that extend from the first or second intermediate main body portion 21A and 21B and extend in the same direction as the pair of guide portions 25D at a position adjacent to the duct portion 6 in the Y-axis direction to lock the duct portion 6. Furthermore, the pair of guide portions 25D are longer in the Z-axis direction than the first or second intermediate locking pieces 22A, 22B of the intermediate adjacent members 2A, 2B (see Figure 28 ).

[0343] According to the power storage device 1, the duct portion 6 is pressed between the pair of guide portions 25D, and the duct portion 6 is guided by the pair of guide portions 25D to the arrangement position (the position where it is locked to the first or second intermediate locking piece 22A, 22B of the intermediate adjacent member 2A, 2B) (see Figure 31 ), so the assembly operation of the duct portion 6 becomes easy.

[0344] In the electrical storage device 1 of the second embodiment, the guide portion 25D has a greater flexural rigidity than the first or second intermediate locking pieces 22A, 22B. By ensuring the flexural rigidity of the guide portion 25D in this manner, the guide portion 25D is less likely to bend when the duct portion 6 is pressed between the pair of guide portions 25D. This allows the duct portion 6 to be more accurately guided to the position where it is locked with the first or second intermediate locking pieces 22A, 22B.

[0345] Since the guide portion 25D has a predetermined bending rigidity (greater than the bending rigidity of the first or second intermediate locking piece 22A, 22B), and the spacing between the pair of guide portions 25D in the Y-axis direction corresponds to the size of the duct portion 6 in the Y-axis direction, when the duct portion 6 is pressed between the pair of guide portions 25D toward the device body A (end body portion 21D), the guide surfaces 251D of the pair of guide portions 25D come into surface contact with the outer surface of the side wall portion 62 of the duct portion 6, thereby suppressing the duct portion 6 from tilting about the central axis C3 of the duct portion 6 ( Figure 31 That is, the duct portion 6 moves (is pressed in) between the pair of guide portions 25D without tilting about the central axis C3 before coming into contact with the end body portion 21D.

[0346] In the energy storage device 1 of the second embodiment, the end adjacent member 2D is arranged outside of the energy storage element 10 located at the endmost portion of the plurality of energy storage elements 10 in the X-axis direction. Because the end adjacent member 2D is located outside of the plurality of energy storage elements 10 in the X-axis direction, when the duct portion 6 is pressed between the pair of guide portions 25D, the end portion of the elongated duct portion 6 in the X-axis direction is guided to the arrangement position (i.e., the end portion of the elongated duct portion 6 is accurately positioned), thereby facilitating assembly of the duct portion 6.

[0347] The power storage device of the present invention is not limited to the second embodiment described above, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. The structure of one embodiment can be added to the structure of another embodiment, and a portion of the structure of one embodiment can be replaced with the structure of another embodiment. Furthermore, a portion of the structure of one embodiment can be deleted.

[0348] In the power storage device 1 of the second embodiment, the pair of guide portions 25D are disposed on the end adjacent member 2D, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration and may be disposed on either the first intermediate adjacent member 2A or the second intermediate adjacent member 2B.

[0349] When the guide portion 25D is provided on the first intermediate adjacent member 2A, the pair of guide portions 25D may be provided on one first intermediate adjacent member 2A or on multiple first intermediate adjacent members 2A. When multiple second intermediate adjacent members 2B are provided in the device body A, the pair of guide portions 25D may be provided on one second intermediate adjacent member 2B or on multiple second intermediate adjacent members 2B.

[0350] In the power storage device 1 of the second embodiment, the first and second intermediate adjacent members 2A and 2B include a pair of intermediate locking pieces 22A and 22B, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration. The first and second intermediate adjacent members 2A and 2B may include a single intermediate locking piece 22A and 22B, or may include three or more intermediate locking pieces 22A and 22B.

[0351] In the power storage device 1 of the second embodiment described above, the flexural rigidity of the guide portion 25D of the end adjacent member 2D is greater than the flexural rigidity of the intermediate locking pieces (the first intermediate locking piece 22A and the second intermediate locking piece 22B) of the first and second intermediate adjacent members 2A and 2B, but this is not limiting. The flexural rigidity of the guide portion 25D may be equal to or less than the flexural rigidity of the intermediate locking pieces 22A and 22B.

[0352] In the power storage device 1 of the second embodiment, the two end adjacent members 2D have a pair of guide portions 25D, but the present invention is not limited to this structure. Only one of the two end adjacent members 2D may have a pair of guide portions 25D.

[0353] In the power storage device 1 of the second embodiment described above, the guide portion 25D of the end adjacent member 2D only has a structure (such as the guide surface 251D) for guiding the duct portion 6 to the arrangement position when the duct portion 6 is installed, and does not have a structure for fixing the duct portion 6 to the end adjacent member 2D (device body A). However, the present invention is not limited to this structure. Figure 32 As shown, the guide portion 25D may also have a structure including a locking portion 253D that projects toward the energy storage element 10 in the X-axis direction from a position spaced a predetermined distance (the distance to the end portion of the locked portion 65, etc.) from the end body portion 21D in the Z-axis direction. In other words, the guide portion 25D may have a structure that secures (locks, etc.) the duct portion 6 in its arranged position.

[0354] While the first and second embodiments above describe a case where the energy storage element is a rechargeable non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery (lithium-ion secondary battery), the type and size (capacity) of the energy storage element are arbitrary. While the above embodiments describe a lithium-ion secondary battery as an example of an energy storage element, the present invention is not limited thereto. The present invention is applicable to various secondary batteries, as well as to energy storage elements used in primary batteries and capacitors such as electric double-layer capacitors.

[0355] To illustrate the present invention, the first and second embodiments have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings to appropriately and fully illustrate the present invention. However, it should be understood that those skilled in the art can easily modify and / or improve the above embodiments. Therefore, as long as the modifications or improvements implemented by those skilled in the art do not depart from the scope of the rights set forth in the technical proposal, such modifications or improvements should be construed as being included within the scope of the rights set forth in the technical proposal.

[0356] Description of Reference Numerals

[0357] 1…Power storage device, 2…Abutting member, 2A…First intermediate adjacent member (second adjacent member), 21A…First intermediate main body (second main body), 22A…First intermediate locking piece, 221A…Locking piece main body, 222A…Locking portion, 23A…First intermediate restricting portion, 27A…First intermediate locking portion, 271A…Hooking portion, 28A…Positioning projection, 2B…Second intermediate adjacent member (second adjacent member), 21B…Second intermediate main body (second main body), 211B…Protruding strip, 212B…Opposing surface, 22B…Second intermediate locking piece, 221B…Locking piece main body, 222B…Locking portion, 23B…Second intermediate restricting portion, 24B…Second fixing portion, 27B…Second intermediate locking portion, 271B…Hooking portion, 2C…End adjacent member (end member), 21C…End main body, 211C…Protrusion, 212C…Opposing surface, 23C…End restricting portion, 25C…Guide, 251C…Guide surface, 252C…Guide surface, 26C…Engaged portion, 26C1…First engaged portion (engaged portion), 26C2…Second engaged portion (engaged portion), 260…Recessed portion, 260A…Engaged through-hole, 261…Bottom surface, 262…Restricting surface, 263…Side surface, 264…Blocking surface, 265…Restricting portion (first portion), 266…Reinforcement portion (second portion), 2D…End adjacent member (first adjacent member), 21D…End main body (first main body), 21 1D… ridge, 212D… facing surface, 23D… end restriction portion, 25D… guide portion, 251D… guide surface, 252D… guiding surface, 253D… locking portion, 3… retaining portion, 31… terminal portion (end member), 311… terminal portion body, 312… through-hole, 313… flange portion, 32… extension portion, 320… extension portion body, 3201… vent, 3202… first fixing hole, 321… first piece, 322… second piece, 323… third piece, 3231… second fixing hole, 33… connecting portion, 331… bolt, 332… nut, 4… first fixing portion, 5… insulating member, 51… ventilation area, 6, 6B… duct portion, 60… duct portion body, 60a… one end portion, 60b…the other end portion, 601…the first member, 602…the second member, 61…the bottom wall portion, 611…the duct portion through-hole, 62…the side wall portion, 63…the top wall portion, 65…the latched portion, 65a…the latched portion closest to the joint portion, 65t…the contact portion, 651…the first latched portion, 652…the second latched portion, 66…the joint portion, 67…the engaging portion, 67a…the curved surface, 671…the first engaging portion (engaging portion), 672…the second engaging portion (engaging portion), 7…the sealing portion, 71…the sealing portion through-hole, 8…the plate portion main body, 81…the busbar accommodating portion, 82…the electric wire placement portion, 83…the cover portion, 84…the connecting portion, 85…the duct placement portion, 9…the wiring harness, 91…the cable portion, 92…the connector,10…Energy storage element, 11…Box, 12…Box body, 121…Sealing portion, 122…Cylinder, 123…Long wall, 124…Short wall, 13…Cover, 131…Cover body, 132…Gas discharge valve, 14…Terminal, 500…Battery assembly, 501…Battery, 502…Electrode surface, 503…Positive electrode, 504…Negative electrode, 505a…Bus bar module, 506…Pipe, 506a…Main body, 506b…Flange, 506c…Outlet, 507…Bus bar, 508…Resin plate 700…battery pack, 701…module box, 702…battery module, 703…bus bar, 704…bus bar box, 706…duct portion, 720…battery cell, 721…external case, 721a…end surface, 722a, 722b…electrode terminals, 723…safety valve, A…device body, B…bus bar, C…plate portion, C1…first centerline, C2…second centerline, C3…central axis of duct, D…stack, R…flow path, S…guiding space, S1…smoke exhaust passage, α…inclination direction around the central axis.

Claims

1. A power storage device, wherein: The power storage device comprises: a plurality of power storage elements arranged in a first direction and having a gas discharge valve arranged in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction; a pair of end members arranged on both sides of the plurality of energy storage elements in the first direction; and a duct portion overlapping the gas discharge valve in the second direction, The pipeline portion includes: a duct body extending along the first direction and guiding the gas discharged from the gas discharge valve along the first direction; a joint portion disposed at one end portion of the duct portion main body in the first direction and connected to another member so as to release the gas guided to the one end portion to the other member; as well as An engaging portion is disposed at the one end portion of the duct portion main body and engages with the end member on one side in the first direction of the pair of end members.

2. The power storage device according to claim 1, wherein The end member on one side has an engaged portion engaged with the engaging portion at an end portion in the second direction toward the gas exhaust valve. The engaging portion extends from the one end portion of the duct body along the first direction. The engaged portion comprises: a first portion that faces the engaging portion from a side opposite to the plurality of energy storage elements in the second direction and extends in a plane direction perpendicular to the second direction; as well as The second portion protrudes from the end edge of the first portion in a direction away from the plurality of energy storage elements in the second direction and extends along the end edge of the first portion.

3. An electric storage device, wherein: The power storage device comprises: a plurality of power storage elements arranged in a first direction and having a gas discharge valve arranged in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction; a plurality of adjacent members disposed between adjacent energy storage elements in the first direction, or disposed adjacent to an endmost energy storage element of the plurality of energy storage elements on an outer side thereof in the first direction; as well as a duct portion overlapping the gas discharge valve in the second direction, At least one of the plurality of adjacent members, namely a first adjacent member, comprises: a first main body portion that overlaps with the power storage element when viewed from the first direction; and A pair of guide portions extends from the first main body portion in the second direction and extends along the duct portion on both sides of the duct portion in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction.

4. An electric storage device, wherein: The power storage device comprises: a plurality of power storage elements arranged in a first direction and having a gas discharge valve arranged in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction; a plurality of adjacent members disposed between adjacent energy storage elements in the first direction, or disposed adjacent to an endmost energy storage element of the plurality of energy storage elements on an outer side thereof in the first direction; as well as a duct portion overlapping the gas discharge valve in the second direction, At least one of the plurality of adjacent members, namely a first adjacent member, comprises: a first main body portion that overlaps with the power storage element when viewed from the first direction; and a pair of guide portions extending from the first main body portion in the second direction and extending along the duct portion on both sides of the duct portion in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction, A second adjacent member, different from the first adjacent member, among the plurality of adjacent members includes: a second main body portion overlapping the energy storage element when viewed from the first direction; as well as a locking piece extending from the second main body portion and extending in the same direction as the pair of guide portions at a position adjacent to the duct portion in the third direction and locking the duct portion; The pair of guide portions is longer than the locking piece of the second abutting member in the second direction.

5. The power storage device according to claim 4, wherein The guide portion has a bending rigidity greater than that of the locking piece.

6. The power storage device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein The first adjacent member is arranged outside an endmost energy storage element among the plurality of energy storage elements in the first direction.

7. The power storage device according to claim 1, wherein The duct portion is composed of a first member on the side of the energy storage element in the second direction and a second member on the side opposite to the energy storage element in the second direction. The first member includes a first engaging portion disposed at one end portion in the first direction. The end member of the pair of end members that engages with the first engaging portion includes a first engaged portion that engages with the first member engaging portion.

8. The power storage device according to claim 1, wherein The duct portion is composed of a first member on the side of the energy storage element in the second direction and a second member on the side opposite to the energy storage element in the second direction. The second member includes a second engaging portion disposed at one end portion in the first direction. The end member of the pair of end members that engages with the second engagement portion includes a second engaged portion that engages with the second member engagement portion.

9. The power storage device according to claim 1, wherein The duct portion is composed of a first member on the side of the energy storage element in the second direction and a second member on the side opposite to the energy storage element in the second direction. The first member includes a first engaging portion disposed at one end portion in the first direction. The second member includes a second engaging portion disposed at one end portion in the first direction. The end member of the pair of end members that engages with the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion includes a first engaged portion that engages with the first engaging portion and a second engaged portion that engages with the second engaging portion.

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