Assembling structure of battery connector, battery unit and battery unit supporting structure

Abstract

An assembly structure of a battery connector, a battery cell, and a battery cell support structure according to the present disclosure are provided with: a battery cover that accommodates a battery pack and has a vertical wall in which a through hole penetrating from the outer side to the inner side is opened; a bottom hole is formed in the position, corresponding to the through hole, of the battery connector; the fastener is provided with a screw part and a head part; and a plate having an outer side surface in which the head part is welded and fixed at a position corresponding to the bottom hole, in which the battery connector is fastened to the outside of the standing wall by a fastener in which the screw part is inserted through the through hole and the bottom hole from the inside to the outside, the assembly structure of the battery connector is also provided with a waterproof part which is arranged between the battery cover and the plate in a manner of surrounding the through hole.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the assembly structure of the battery connector, the battery cell, and the battery cell support structure. Background Technology

[0002] Vehicles such as electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles are equipped with an electric motor as a drive source and a battery cell as a power source for the drive motor.

[0003] For example, a battery cell includes a battery pack, a battery case, a battery cover, a connector, and a busbar. The battery case has a receiving portion for accommodating the battery pack. The battery pack has multiple battery modules. The receiving portion opens to the front side. The battery cover has walls. After the battery pack is received in the receiving portion, the battery cover is assembled to the battery case such that the walls cover the receiving portion from the front side. The battery connector is disposed on the outer side of the walls. The battery connector is fastened to the battery cover by fasteners. It should be noted that double-ended bolts welded to the plate are used as bolts.

[0004] In addition, as an assembly structure for the battery connector, for example, the following structure is proposed: the bolt holes provided on the plate are formed into a pouch shape, and a waterproof seal is provided between the plate and the battery connector to prevent water such as rainwater adhering to the wall from moving from the battery connector side to the receiving part side, thereby ensuring the water tightness of the battery cell.

[0005] In addition, as a battery cell, for example, the following structure is described, which includes: a battery module; an upper frame member that holds the battery module in a suspended state; a battery case that houses the battery module held by the upper frame member; a battery cover that covers the upper opening of the battery case; and a sealing member that seals the battery case and the battery cover, thereby ensuring the water tightness of the battery cell (see Patent Document 1).

[0006] Existing technical documents

[0007] Patent documents

[0008] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-165301 Summary of the Invention

[0009] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0010] In the aforementioned battery connector assembly structure, if there is insufficient space on the back side of the battery connector, the bolt holes on the plate cannot be designed as pockets, which may make it difficult to ensure water tightness.

[0011] Furthermore, in the battery cell described in Patent Document 1, sealing elements may not be possible due to the shape of the battery cell, making it sometimes difficult to ensure water tightness.

[0012] Under the above circumstances, ensuring watertightness is quite difficult.

[0013] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide an assembly structure for a battery connector, a battery cell, and a battery cell support structure that can ensure water tightness.

[0014] Solution to the problem

[0015] To achieve the above objectives, the battery connector assembly structure disclosed herein includes:

[0016] A battery cover that accommodates a battery pack and has a vertical wall with an opening and a through hole extending from the outside to the inside.

[0017] A battery connector is disposed on the battery cover and has a bottom hole at a position corresponding to the through hole;

[0018] Fasteners, having a screw portion and a head; and

[0019] The plate has an outer surface, and the head is fused and fixed to the outer surface at a position corresponding to the bottom hole.

[0020] In the assembly structure of the battery connector, the battery connector is fastened to the outer side of the upright wall by a fastener inserted from the inside to the outside through the through hole and the bottom hole by the screw portion.

[0021] The battery connector assembly structure also includes a waterproof portion configured between the battery cover and the plate in a manner that surrounds the through hole.

[0022] The battery cell disclosed herein has the following features:

[0023] The assembly structure of the battery connector described above;

[0024] A battery case having a receiving portion for accommodating the battery pack; and

[0025] The battery cover has the vertical wall and is configured such that the inner side of the vertical wall is the receiving portion side.

[0026] The battery cell support structure disclosed herein includes a constraint member that, when the battery cell is pulled into the vehicle side with a predetermined force, constrains the battery cell in such a way that the battery cell is subjected to a reaction force against the predetermined force while the battery cell is pulled into the vehicle side.

[0027] Invention Effects

[0028] According to this disclosure, watertightness can be ensured. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Figure 1This is a top view showing the frame structure, etc. of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 2 This is a side view showing the frame structure of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0031] Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing the battery support structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing the battery support structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 5 This is a top view showing the battery support structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 6 This is a top view showing the battery support structure within the framework of the embodiments disclosed herein;

[0035] Figure 7 This is a top view showing a pair of battery support structures according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] Figure 8 This is a top view showing a pair of battery support structures within the framework of the embodiments disclosed herein;

[0037] Figure 9 This is a top view showing the constraint components, etc., of the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0038] Figure 10 This is a top view showing constraint components, etc., within the framework of the embodiments disclosed herein;

[0039] Figure 11 This is a perspective view showing constraint components, etc., of embodiments of this disclosure;

[0040] Figure 12 It is a diagram showing the relationship between the position of the latch and the position of the locking pin;

[0041] Figure 13 It is a diagram showing the relationship between the position of the output rod and the position of the connecting rod;

[0042] Figure 14 This is a top view showing the battery support structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0043] Figure 15 This is a top view showing the elastic components, etc., of the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0044] Figure 16 This is a side view showing the battery support structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0045] Figure 17 This is a top view showing the battery support structure within the framework of the embodiments disclosed herein;

[0046] Figure 18 This is a front view of the battery support structure according to the embodiment of this disclosure, viewed from the front of the vehicle.

[0047] Figure 19 This is a perspective view of the assembly structure of the battery connector according to the embodiment of this disclosure, viewed from the opposite side at an angle from the short side.

[0048] Figure 20 This is a partially exploded perspective view of a portion of the assembly structure of the battery connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from an oblique side in the direction of the short side.

[0049] Figure 21 This is a partial cross-sectional view showing the assembly structure of the battery connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure in the vertical direction.

[0050] Figure 22 The diagram depicts the movement of moisture in a partial cross-sectional view along the vertical direction of the assembly structure of the battery connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0052] BTR: Battery; NT: Nut;

[0053] BTRC: Battery box; STR1: First latch;

[0054] BCN: Battery connector; STR1_BKT: Bracket;

[0055] BCVR: Battery cover; STR1_BER: Locking bar;

[0056] BLT: Fastener; STR2: Second latch;

[0057] BLT1: Screw section; STR2_BKT: Bracket;

[0058] BLT2: Head; STR2_BER: Locking bar;

[0059] BP: Battery pack; 1: Vehicle;

[0060] BSS: Reception section; 2: Frame;

[0061] BWL: Bottom wall; 2a: Tank wall;

[0062] SWL: Side walls; 2b: Tank wall;

[0063] WL1: One side wall in the short side direction; 2c: Tank wall;

[0064] WL2: The other side wall in the short side direction; 3: Crossbeam;

[0065] WL3: Upper sidewall; 3a: Crossbeam (first crossbeam);

[0066] FCN: Vehicle-side connector; 3a_1: Bottom wall;

[0067] MTR: Motor; 3a_2: One side wall;

[0068] 3a_3: The other sidewall; 62: The groove;

[0069] 3b: Crossbeam (first crossbeam); 70: Plate;

[0070] 3b_1: Bottom wall; 71: Front side (outer side) of the plate;

[0071] 3b_2: One side wall; 72: Back side (inner side) of the board;

[0072] 3b_3: The other side wall; 73: Wiring opening;

[0073] 3c: Crossbeam (third crossbeam); 74: Recess;

[0074] 3c_1: Bottom wall; 75: Sealing part;

[0075] 3c_2: One sidewall; 76: Liquid gasket;

[0076] 3c_3: The other sidewall; 80: Sliding mechanism;

[0077] 3d: Crossbeam (second crossbeam); 81a: Guide rail;

[0078] 3e: Crossbeam; 81b: Guide rail;

[0079] 4: Bracket; 82a: Slider;

[0080] 5a: Bracket; 82b: Slider;

[0081] 5b: Bracket; 100: Support structure;

[0082] 5c: bracket; 200: linkage mechanism;

[0083] 6: Bracket; 210: First Link;

[0084] 7: Closed frame; 211: One end along the length direction;

[0085] 8: Platform; 212: The other end along the length;

[0086] 8a: Top plate; 213: Middle section;

[0087] 8b: Flange; 220: Second link;

[0088] 8c: Flange; 221: One end in the length direction;

[0089] 9: WL latch; 222: The other end in the length direction;

[0090] 10: Constraint component; 223: Intermediate part;

[0091] 11: First latch; 230: Intermediate link;

[0092] 12: Second latch; 240A: Fixed link;

[0093] 30: Actuator; 240B: Fixed link;

[0094] 31: Output rod; 300: Elastomer;

[0095] 50: Vertical wall; 300A: First elastic body;

[0096] 50p: Panel; 300B: Second elastomer;

[0097] 51: Front (outer side); 300S: Elastomer group;

[0098] 52: Back side (inner side); 310: Front side;

[0099] 54: Through hole; 311: First elastic surface;

[0100] 55: Specified area; 312: Second elastic surface;

[0101] 56: Wiring opening; 351: First bracket;

[0102] 57: Opening for operation; 352: Second bracket;

[0103] 60: Main body; 400: Assembly structure.

[0104] 61: Bottom hole; Detailed Implementation

[0105] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The vehicle described in the embodiments of the present disclosure is a commercial electric vehicle for goods delivery, etc., equipped with a frame structure, a driving motor, and a drive battery. However, the present disclosure is not limited to commercial electric vehicles and can also be applied to general electric vehicles. The drive battery is a battery used to supply power to the driving motor. The battery support structure in the embodiments of the present disclosure is a support structure that supports the battery on the frame structure side.

[0106] Figure 1 This is a top view showing the frame structure of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 This is a side view showing the frame structure of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing the battery support structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing the battery support structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1 The X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are depicted. Figure 1 The vertical direction is called the vehicle width direction or X direction. The direction along the vehicle width direction away from the center side is called the outer side of the vehicle width direction or "+X direction". The direction along the vehicle width direction closer to the center side is called the inner side of the vehicle width direction or "-X direction". Figure 1 The left and right directions in the equation are called the vehicle's front-to-back direction or Y-direction. The right direction is called the vehicle's rear side, rear direction, or "+Y direction," and the left direction is called the vehicle's front side, front direction, or "-Y direction." Figure 1 The longitudinal direction is called the vehicle height direction, up and down direction, or Z direction; the direction near the front is called the upper direction, upper side, or "+Z direction"; and the longitudinal direction is called the lower direction, lower side, or "-Z direction".

[0107] (Framework Structure)

[0108] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the frame structure includes: a pair of frames 2 (longitudinal beams), crossbeams 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, and 3e, brackets 4, 5a, 5b, and 6, and a closed frame 7. It should be noted that brackets 4 are respectively disposed on each of the pair of frames 2, and are configured to be in the same position in the vehicle's longitudinal direction (Y direction). In other words, brackets 4 are disposed symmetrically with each other in the vehicle width direction (X direction) on each of the pair of frames 2. Similarly, brackets 5a, 5b, 6, and the closed frame 7 are disposed symmetrically with each other in the vehicle width direction (X direction) on each of the pair of frames 2.

[0109] Bracket 4 is a flat plate with a generally rectangular shape. Bracket 4 is configured such that the flat plate surface faces the vehicle width direction (X direction). Bracket 4 is used to fasten frame 2 to closed frame 7 together.

[0110] The bracket 5a is a flat plate with a generally rectangular shape. The bracket 5a is configured such that the flat plate surface faces the vehicle width direction (X direction). The upper part of the bracket 5a is fastened to a groove wall 2a with a generally U-shaped cross-section in the frame 2 (see reference). Figure 3 The lower part of bracket 5a is fastened to crossbeam 3a and platform 8 respectively (see reference). Figure 3 The mounting stage 8 is used to mount the battery BTR (see reference). Figure 3 The platform. That is, the crossbeam 3a and bracket 5a are configured in the specified positions for mounting the battery BTR in the vehicle's longitudinal direction. It should be noted that, as... Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, two battery BTRs are installed on vehicle 1. One battery BTR is mounted from the outside of the vehicle width direction to one frame of a pair of frames. The other battery BTR is mounted from the outside of the vehicle width direction to the other frame of the pair of frames.

[0111] Bracket 5b is positioned further forward of the vehicle (in the -Y direction) than bracket 5a. Like bracket 5a, bracket 5b is a flat plate with a generally rectangular shape. Like bracket 5a, bracket 5b is positioned so that the flat surface faces the vehicle width direction (X direction). The upper part of bracket 5b is fastened to the groove wall 2a of frame 2 (see reference). Figure 3 The lower part of bracket 5b is fastened to crossbeam 3b and platform 8 respectively (see reference). Figure 3 In other words, the crossbeam 3b and bracket 5b, like the crossbeam 3a and bracket 5a, are configured in the prescribed positions for configuring the battery BTR in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.

[0112] Bracket 6 (refer to) Figure 2 The bracket 6 is a flat plate with a specified shape. The bracket 6 is configured such that the flat surface faces vertically (Z direction). The outer end of the bracket 6 in the vehicle width direction (+X direction) is fastened to the groove wall 2b of the frame 2 (see reference). Figure 4 The inner end of bracket 6 in the vehicle width direction (-X direction) is fastened to crossbeam 3d. The position for mounting bracket 6 in the vehicle's longitudinal direction is the center position between the position for mounting bracket 5a and the position for mounting bracket 5b in the vehicle's longitudinal direction. That is, like crossbeam 3a, bracket 5a, crossbeam 3b, and bracket 5b, bracket 6 and crossbeam 3d are positioned at the designated positions for mounting battery BTR in the vehicle's longitudinal direction.

[0113] A pair of frames 2 extend in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and are spaced apart from each other in the vehicle width direction. Each frame 2 is formed as a U-shaped groove with an opening facing inward in the vehicle width direction (-X direction), and has: a groove wall 2a extending in the vertical direction (Z direction), a groove wall 2b bent at the upper end of the groove wall 2a and extending in the -X direction, and a groove wall 2c bent at the lower end of the groove wall 2a and extending in the -X direction. In other words, the pair of frames 2 are arranged opposite each other in the vehicle width direction (X direction) with groove-shaped openings.

[0114] Each of the crossbeams 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, and 3e is arranged at predetermined intervals and supported on a pair of frames 2. The crossbeams 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, and 3e are collectively referred to as crossbeam 3 (see reference). Figure 2 ).

[0115] The frame structure of this embodiment also includes a closed frame 7. The closed frame 7 is disposed at the opening of the frame 2, forming a cross-sectional shape closed by the frame 2 and the closed frame 7. This strengthens the frame structure. In the following description, the closed cross-sectional shape formed by the frame 2 and the closed frame 7 will be referred to as the "closed cross-sectional shape".

[0116] To ensure sufficient space for the battery BTR, electric motor MTR, and other components housed in frame 2, the frame structure of this embodiment is subject to various limitations. For example, the rear end of the closed frame 7 is shortened. This becomes a major cause of reduced strength in the frame structure. Therefore, as... Figure 3 As shown, in the embodiment of this disclosure, the rear end of the closed frame 7 is fastened to the frame 2 by a bracket 4 and fasteners (bolts, nuts). Furthermore, at the location where the rear end of the closed frame 7 is fastened to the frame 2 in the vehicle's longitudinal direction, a crossbeam 3e is mounted on a pair of frames 2. This strengthens the frame structure.

[0117] The crossbeam 3a is formed with a U-shaped cross-section opening facing upwards (+Z direction), and has a bottom wall 3a_1 extending in the vehicle width direction (X direction), a side wall 3a_2 that is bent at one end of the bottom wall 3a_1 in the vehicle width direction and extends upwards, and another side wall 3a_3 that is bent at the other end of the bottom wall 3a_1 in the vehicle width direction and extends upwards. The outer side of the side wall 3a_2 in the vehicle width direction is fastened to the lower part of the bracket 5a by fasteners (bolts, nuts). The outer side of the other side wall 3a_3 in the vehicle width direction is fastened to the lower part of the bracket 5a by fasteners (bolts, nuts). Thus, the crossbeam 3a is mounted on a pair of frames 2 by means of the bracket 5a. The crossbeam 3a corresponds to the "first crossbeam" of this disclosure.

[0118] The crossbeam 3b is positioned further forward of the vehicle (in the -Y direction) than the crossbeam 3a and spaced a predetermined distance from it. The crossbeam 3b has the same cross-sectional shape as the crossbeam 3a and includes a bottom wall 3b_1 extending in the vehicle width direction (X direction), a side wall 3b_2 bent at one end of the bottom wall 3b_1 in the vehicle width direction and extending upwards, and another side wall 3b_3 bent at the other end of the bottom wall 3b_1 in the vehicle width direction and extending upwards. The outer side of the side wall 3b_2 in the vehicle width direction is fastened to the lower part of the bracket 5b by fasteners (bolts, nuts). The outer side of the other side wall 3b_3 in the vehicle width direction is also fastened to the lower part of the bracket 5b by fasteners (bolts, nuts). Thus, the crossbeam 3b is mounted on a pair of frames 2 by means of the bracket 5b. The crossbeam 3b corresponds to the "first crossbeam" of this disclosure.

[0119] The crossbeam 3d is positioned higher (in the +Z direction) than the central position between the location for crossbeam 3a and the location for crossbeam 3b in the vehicle's longitudinal direction (Y direction). The crossbeam 3d is a flat plate component with a generally rectangular shape along its long side in the vehicle width direction (X direction). One end of the crossbeam 3d in the vehicle width direction is fastened to the end of the bracket 6 in the vehicle width direction (-X direction) by fasteners (bolts, nuts). The crossbeam 3d corresponds to the "second crossbeam" of this disclosure.

[0120] As described above, crossbeams 3a and 3b, brackets 5a and 5b are positioned at predetermined locations in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. Additionally, bracket 6 and crossbeam 3d are positioned at predetermined locations in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. Thus, at these predetermined locations in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, a double-closed cross-sectional shape is formed. The first closed cross-sectional shape is formed by a pair of frames 2, crossbeams 3a and 3d, brackets 5a and 5b, and bracket 6. The second closed cross-sectional shape is formed by a pair of frames 2, crossbeams 3b and 3d, brackets 5a and 5b, and bracket 6.

[0121] According to the above structure, at a predetermined position in the vehicle's longitudinal direction for arranging the battery BTR, when a moment load, for example, is applied to a pair of frames 2 about an axis extending in the vehicle's longitudinal direction (Y direction), a force with the opposite rotational direction to the moment load is generated on the crossbeam 3a, which is a component forming a closed cross-sectional shape. Therefore, deformation of the frame 2 can be suppressed. As a result, the strength of the frame structure at the predetermined position in the vehicle's longitudinal direction can be improved. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent a decrease in the support rigidity of the battery.

[0122] Crossbeam 3c (refer to) Figure 2The crossbeam 3 is positioned at a predetermined distance from the front (-Y direction) of the vehicle, away from a predetermined position in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The crossbeam 3 is formed with the same cross-sectional shape as the crossbeam 3a, and has a bottom wall 3c_1, a side wall 3c_2, and another side wall 3c_3. Thus, the crossbeam 3c is mounted on a pair of frames 2.

[0123] A motor MTR is mounted on the crossbeam 3c (see reference). Figure 1 The motor MTR is configured to be mounted on the bottom wall 3c_1. The crossbeam 3c corresponds to the "third crossbeam" of this disclosure.

[0124] (Platform 8, sliding mechanism 80, etc.)

[0125] Next, refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 The mounting platform 8 and sliding mechanism 80 will be described. The mounting platform 8 is mounted on the outer side (+X direction) of the frame 2 in the vehicle width direction by means of the sliding mechanism 80. It should be noted that, as mentioned above, two battery BTRs are installed in the vehicle 1. The mounting platform 8 and sliding mechanism 80 are also configured corresponding to the two battery BTRs respectively. In the following description, the main focus will be on the mounting platform 8 and sliding mechanism 80. Figure 3 The battery BTR mounted on the outer side of the frame 2 shown in the lower middle section in the vehicle width direction will be described. In addition, the mounting platform 8 and sliding mechanism 80 configured corresponding to the battery BTR will be described.

[0126] The mounting platform 8 is formed with a generally inverted U-shaped cross-section and has a generally rectangular top plate 8a facing upward (+Z direction), a flange 8b that is bent at the vehicle rear end of the top plate 8a and extends downward (-Z direction), and a flange 8c that is bent at the vehicle front end of the top plate 8a and extends downward (-Z direction). The battery BTR is mounted on the top plate 8a. The battery BTR has multiple modules and a box-shaped battery box BTRC that houses the modules. A latch (not shown) is provided at the bottom of the battery box BTRC. A WL latch 9 is arranged in the center of the top plate 8a. The WL latch 9 is configured to engage with the latch to restrict the upward (+Z direction) movement of the battery BTR mounted on the top plate 8a, and is configured to disengage from the latch to release the restriction on the upward (+Z direction) movement of the battery BTR.

[0127] The sliding mechanism 80 includes a guide rail 81a, a guide rail 81b, a slider 82a, and a slider 82b. The guide rail 81a extends along the vehicle width direction (X direction). At the end of the guide rail 81a on the inner side (-X direction) of the vehicle width direction, a bent flange extending upwards is provided, which is secured to the frame 2 by means of a bracket 5a. The guide rail 81b is positioned further forward of the vehicle (-Y direction) than the guide rail 81a and extends along the vehicle width direction (X direction). At the end of the guide rail 81b on the inner side (-X direction) of the vehicle width direction, a bent flange extending upwards is provided, which is secured to the frame 2 by means of a bracket 5b.

[0128] Slider 82a is configured to be guided by guide rail 81a in the vehicle width direction (X direction). Flange 8b is fastened to slider 82a. Slider 82b is configured to be guided by guide rail 81b in the X direction. Flange 8c is fastened to slider 82b. Thus, the battery BTR, mounted on top plate 8a and whose upward movement (+Z direction) is restricted by WL latch 9, becomes an integral unit with sliders 82a and 82b, and can be guided by guide rails 81a and 81b in the vehicle width direction (X direction).

[0129] (Constraint component 10)

[0130] Next, refer to Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 The constraint component 10 and the linkage mechanism 200 are described. Figure 5 This is a top view showing the battery support structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 6 This is a top view showing the battery support structure within the framework of the embodiments disclosed herein. Figure 7 This is a top view showing a pair of battery support structures according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8 This is a top view showing a pair of battery support structures within the framework of an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0131] The pull-in direction of the battery BTR in this disclosure is a direction DR1 along the horizontal plane. It should be noted that the pull-in direction of the battery BTR in this embodiment is described as inside the vehicle width direction (-X direction). The direction DR1 is not limited to this; it can be set according to the configuration position of the battery BTR. For example, if the battery BTR is installed in the rear frame of the vehicle, it can also be a direction from the rear of the vehicle to the front of the vehicle.

[0132] In this embodiment, the battery BTR is mounted on the top plate 8a with its sidewall facing inward in the vehicle width direction (-X direction). The battery BTR is constrained in a state where it is pulled into the frame 2. A first latch STR1 is disposed on the sidewall of the battery BTR (the sidewall pulled in by the constrained member 10). The first latch STR1 has: a bracket STR1_BKT, which is formed in a U-shaped cross-sectional shape and has an upper wall, a vertical wall, and a lower wall; and a latch bar STR1_BER, which is formed in a rod shape and is mounted on the upper wall and the lower wall. The vertical wall of the bracket STR1_BKT is fixed to the sidewall of the battery BTR such that the latch bar STR1_BER extends in the vertical direction (Z direction). A through hole TH1 is provided in the frame 2 (see reference). Figure 10 The through hole TH1 allows the first latch STR1 (the upper and lower walls of the bracket STR1_BKT and the latch bar STR1_BER) to pass through from the outer side (+X direction) of the vehicle width direction to the inner side (-X direction) of the vehicle width direction when the battery BTR is pulled into the frame 2 side.

[0133] A second latch STR2 is positioned on the side wall of the battery BTR at a predetermined distance from the first latch STR1 in the forward direction (-Y direction). The second latch STR2 has a bracket STR2_BKT with the same shape as the bracket STR1_BKT and a latch bar STR2_BER with the same shape as the latch bar STR1_BER. The bracket STR2_BKT is fixed to the side wall of the battery BTR in a vertical (Z direction) manner, allowing the latch bar STR2_BER to extend. A through hole TH2 (see reference) is provided in the frame 2. Figure 10 The through hole TH2 allows the second latch STR2 (the upper and lower walls of the bracket STR2_BKT and the latch bar STR2_BER) to pass through from the outer side (+X direction) of the vehicle width direction to the inner side (-X direction) of the vehicle width direction when the battery BTR is pulled into the frame 2 side.

[0134] A battery connector BCN is positioned at the center between the locations of the first latch STR1 and the second latch STR2 on the side wall of the battery BTR. When the battery BTR is restrained in a state where it is pulled into the frame 2, the battery connector BCN is electrically connected to the vehicle-side connector FCN located on the frame 2 side. Furthermore, a through hole TH3 (see reference) is provided in the frame 2 through an opening. Figure 10 The through hole TH3 allows the battery connector BCN to pass through from the outer side (+X direction) in the vehicle width direction to the inner side (-X direction) in the vehicle width direction when the battery BTR is pulled into the frame 2 side.

[0135] The restraint member 10 is disposed on the frame 2 side. When the battery BTR is pulled into the frame side (inside the vehicle width direction, in the -X direction, or in one direction DR1) with a predetermined force, the restraint member 10 restrains the battery BTR in a manner that causes the battery BTR to be subjected to a reaction force against the predetermined force while the battery BTR is pulled into the frame 2 side. The restraint member 10 has a first latch 11 and a second latch 12. The first latch 11 is configured to engage and disengage with a first latch STR1. Specifically, the first latch 11 is configured to engage / disengage with the latch bar STR1_BER of the first latch STR1. The second latch 12 is configured to engage / disengage with a second latch STR2. Specifically, the second latch 12 is configured to engage / disengage with the latch bar STR2_BER of the second latch STR2. In the following description, the situation where the first latch 11 engages / disengages with the latch bar STR1_BER is described as the first latch 11 engaging / disengaging with the first latch STR1. Similarly, the engagement / disengagement of the second latch 12 with the locking bar STR2_BER is described as the engagement / disengagement of the second latch 12 with the second locking bar STR2.

[0136] The first latch 11 rotates between an unlocked position disengaged from the first latch STR1 and a locked position engaged with the first latch STR1, and is configured to rotate between a locked position and a pulled-in position in which the battery BTR is pulled toward the vehicle 1 by means of the first latch STR1.

[0137] The second latch 12 rotates between an unlocked position where it is disengaged from the second latch STR2 and a locked position where it is engaged with the second latch STR2, and is configured to rotate between a locked position and a pulled-in position where the battery BTR is pulled toward the vehicle 1 by means of the second latch STR2.

[0138] (Linkage Mechanism 200)

[0139] Figure 9 This is a top view showing the constraint components, etc., of the embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 10 This is a top view showing the constraint components, etc., within the framework of the embodiments disclosed herein. Figure 11This is a perspective view showing the constraint components, etc., of an embodiment of the present disclosure. The linkage mechanism 200 includes a first link 210, a second link 220, an intermediate link 230, and a fixed link 240. The linkage mechanism 200 of this embodiment is a parallel linkage mechanism. That is, the distance from one end 211 in the length direction of the first link 210 to the other end 212 in the length direction is equal to the distance from one end 221 in the length direction of the second link 220 to the other end 222 in the length direction. In addition, the length of the intermediate link 230 is equal to the distance between the position of one end 211 in the length direction of the first link 210 and the position of one end 221 in the length direction of the second link 220.

[0140] In this embodiment, the fixing link 240 is divided into fixing link 240A and fixing link 240B. Fixing link 240A is arranged on the frame 2 in a manner corresponding to the first latch 11. In addition, fixing link 240B is arranged on the frame 2 in a manner corresponding to the second latch 12.

[0141] The first link 210 consists of two parts. The two parts are integrated together. One end 211 of the first link 210 in the longitudinal direction is connected to the fixed link 240A in a manner that allows it to rotate relative to the fixed link 240A, and the other end 212 of the first link 210 in the longitudinal direction is connected to the first latch 11 in a manner that allows it to rotate relative to the first latch 11.

[0142] The second link 220 consists of two parts. The two parts are integrated together. One end 221 of the second link 220 in the longitudinal direction is connected to the fixed link 240B in a manner that allows it to rotate relative to the fixed link 240B, and the other end 222 of the second link 220 in the longitudinal direction is connected to the second latch 12 in a manner that allows it to rotate relative to the second latch 12.

[0143] The intermediate link 230 has a link bracket 231 and a link rod 232, which are connected in a manner that allows for adjustment of the link's length. The intermediate link 230 connects the middle portion 213 (see reference) between one end 211 in the length direction and the other end 212 in the length direction of the first link 210. Figure 11 The intermediate link 230 connects the first link 210 to the second link 220 at the intermediate portion 213 between one end 221 in the longitudinal direction and the other end 222 in the longitudinal direction. It should be noted that the connection position of the intermediate link 230 is not limited to this. For example, the intermediate link 230 may also connect the other end 212 in the longitudinal direction of the first link 210 and the other end 222 in the longitudinal direction of the second link 220.

[0144] Next, refer to Figure 12 and Figure 13The operation of the first latch 11, the second latch 12, and the linkage mechanism 200 will be described. In the following description, the first latch 11 and the second latch 12 will be collectively referred to as "latch". In addition, the first link 210 and the second link 220 will be collectively referred to as "link".

[0145] (Actuator 30)

[0146] The battery support structure 100 of this embodiment includes an actuator 30 that actuates the first latch 11 and the second latch 12 respectively by means of a linkage mechanism 200. The actuator 30 has an output rod 31 (see reference). Figure 11 In this embodiment, the actuator 30 is a hydraulic cylinder. It should be noted that, in this embodiment, a portion of the hydraulic circuit driving the actuator 30 is omitted. A connecting rod (not shown) that is rotatably mounted on the fixed connecting rod 240 and is linked to the output rod 31, and a locking pin is fixed to the connecting rod. The stroke of the output rod 31 is limited by restricting / unrestricting the movement of the locking pin using a limiter shape.

[0147] The output rod 31 is connected to the first link 210. It should be noted that the output rod 31 can also be connected to the second link 220. The output rod 31 is configured to reciprocate in the direction in which the intermediate link 230 extends. Furthermore, the output rod 31 is configured to reciprocate in a direction orthogonal to the pulling direction in which the battery BTR is pulled toward the vehicle 1.

[0148] Figure 12 This is a diagram showing the relationship between the position of the latch and the position of the locking pin. In Figure 12 In the diagram, a dashed line represents the locking pin, and a solid line represents the shape of the limit switch used to restrict / release the movement of the locking pin. Figure 12 In this diagram, the left-hand rotation indicates the pulling-in direction of the battery BTR, and the right-hand rotation indicates the pulling-back direction. The latch is fully unlocked when rotated a predetermined angle to the right from the unlock limit, at which point the locking pin abuts against the limit switch. This limits the travel of the output lever 31. The starting pull-in position is set at the position after rotating the latch to the left from the unlock limit by a predetermined angle. The maximum pull-in position is set at the position after rotating the latch to the left from the starting pull-in position by a predetermined angle. The locking limit is set at the position after rotating the latch to the left from the maximum pull-in position by a predetermined angle. The latch is fully locked when rotated to the left from the locking limit by a predetermined angle, at which point the locking pin abuts against the limit switch. This limits the travel of the output lever 31.

[0149] Figure 13This is a diagram showing the relationship between the position of the output rod and the position of the connecting rod. As described above, the linkage mechanism 200 of this embodiment is a parallel linkage mechanism, in which the first connecting rod 210 and the second connecting rod 220 perform the same movements. Figure 13 In the diagram, the link in the linkage mechanism 200 is represented by a solid line. The first link 210 is represented by a solid line. Additionally, black dots represent one end 211 and the other end 212 of the first link 210 in the length direction. Figure 13 In the diagram, a single-dotted line represents the arc of the trajectory of the other end 212 of the first link 210 along its length direction, a dashed line represents the tangent at each position of the other end of the arc, and θ represents the angle of the length direction of the first link 210 relative to the direction of the tangent at each position of the other end.

[0150] When the first latch 11 rotates between the unlocked and locked positions, the length direction of the first link 210 forms an acute angle with respect to a tangent line that passes through the other end 212 of the length direction of the first link 210 on a circle centered at the rotation center of the first latch 11. In other words, between the unlocked and locked positions, the angle θ of the length direction of the first link 210 relative to the tangent line shifts within the range of acute angles (0° < θ < 90°). Thus, the first link 210 can transmit the force required to rotate the first latch 11 between the unlocked and locked positions from the actuator 30 to the first latch 11. By reliably transmitting this force to the first latch, the first latch can rotate smoothly, for example, preventing deadlock.

[0151] Furthermore, when the second latch 12 rotates between the unlocked and locked positions, the length direction of the second link 220 forms an acute angle with respect to a tangent line that passes through the other end 222 of the length direction of the second link 220 on a circle centered at the rotation center of the second latch 12. That is, similar to the first latch 11, the angle θ of the length direction of the second link 220 relative to the tangent line shifts within the range of acute angles between the unlocked and locked positions (0° < θ < 90°). Thus, the second link 220 can transmit the force required to rotate the second latch 12 between the unlocked and locked positions from the actuator 30 to the second latch 12. Therefore, similar to the first latch 11, the second latch 12 can rotate smoothly.

[0152] The first latch 11 is rotated to the pull-in position. Figure 13 In the case of the maximum pull-in position shown, the length direction of the first link 210 is approximately parallel to the direction of the tangent line passing through the position of the other end 212 of the length direction of the first link 210 on the circumference. Figure 13In this context, "θ (=0)" indicates that the length direction of the first link 210 is parallel to the tangent. Similarly, when the second latch 12 rotates to the pulled-in position (and... Figure 13 In the case of the maximum pull-in position shown, the length direction of the second link 220 is approximately parallel to the direction of the tangent line passing through the position of the other end 222 of the length direction of the second link 220 on the circumference. It should be noted that the allowable tolerance for parallelism of the length direction relative to the tangent line is set, for example, based on the driving force of the actuator 30 and the axial force of the bolts fixing the first latch 11, the second latch 12, and the actuator 30.

[0153] Thus, the first link 210 can efficiently transmit the force for rotating the first latch 11 to the first latch 11, and the second link 220 can efficiently transmit the force for rotating the second latch 12 to the second latch 12. Therefore, the first latch 11 and the second latch 12 can be operated efficiently, thereby pulling the battery BTR towards the vehicle 1 side with sufficient force.

[0154] According to the above structure, the battery BTR is supported on the side of frame 2 in a state where it is pulled in one direction DR1 (inside the vehicle width direction) along the horizontal plane. Therefore, even if the battery pack BTRC moves relative to frame 2 due to vehicle vibration, the frictional resistance generated between the battery pack BTRC and frame 2 can suppress the forward and backward swaying of the battery BTR. It should be noted that sometimes the frictional resistance between the battery pack BTRC and frame 2 alone is insufficient to suppress the forward and backward swaying of the battery BTR.

[0155] (Elastomer 300, First Elastomer 300A, Second Elastomer 300B, Elastomer Group 300S)

[0156] Next, refer to Figures 14 to 18 The elastomer 300, etc., will be explained. Figure 14 This is a top view showing the battery support structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 15 This is a top view showing the elastic components, etc., of the embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 16 This is a side view showing the battery support structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 17 This is a top view showing the battery support structure within the framework of the embodiments disclosed herein. Figure 18 This is a front view of the battery support structure according to the embodiment of this disclosure, viewed from the front of the vehicle.

[0157] The elastomer 300 has a plate surface 310 composed of flat, plate-like surfaces (see reference). Figure 14 and Figure 15The elastic body 300 is a plate-shaped elastomer. Elastomers 300 are respectively disposed at positions corresponding to brackets 5a and 5b. Hereinafter, the elastomer 300 disposed on bracket 5a will be described as representative, and the differences between the elastomer 300 disposed on bracket 5b and the elastomer 300 disposed on bracket 5a will be explained. It should be noted that the elastomer 300 disposed on the first bracket 351 is used as the first elastomer 300A. Alternatively, the elastomer 300 disposed on the second bracket 352 is used as the second elastomer 300B. The first bracket 351 and the second bracket 352 are metal plates. The two ends of the plates are respectively fused to bracket 5a. In this embodiment, the first elastomer 300A and the second elastomer 300B are used in combination. Hereinafter, the component formed by combining the first elastomer 300A and the second elastomer 300B is also referred to as an "elastic body assembly". Two elastomer assemblies 300S are arranged on the bracket 5a at a distance from each other in the vertical direction.

[0158] The first elastic body 300A uses its plate surface 310 as the first elastic surface 311 (see reference). Figure 14 and Figure 15 The first elastic surface 311 is configured in a manner opposite to one direction DR1 (inner side of the vehicle width direction in this embodiment) and another direction DR2 ( Figure 14 The first elastic surface 311 is inclined to one side (in this embodiment, the rear side of the vehicle) in a direction orthogonal to the outer side of the vehicle width direction and along the horizontal plane. Furthermore, the inclination angle of the first elastic surface 311 towards the side orthogonal to the other direction DR2 is set according to the weight, size, etc. of the battery BTR. The first elastic body 300A is disposed on the side of the frame 2 by means of the first bracket 351 and the bracket 5a, such that the plate surface 310 constitutes the first elastic surface 311. The bracket 5a is formed with a cross-sectional shape that is cap-shaped in its horizontal section, and the ends of the bracket 5a on the rear side (+Y direction) and the front side (-Y direction) are located further inside the vehicle width direction (-X direction) than the center portion in the vehicle longitudinal direction (Y direction). Specifically, the plate surface 310 is mounted between the end portion on the rear side of the vehicle and the center portion in the vehicle longitudinal direction, thereby constituting the first elastic surface 311.

[0159] When the battery BTR is pulled in one direction DR1, the first elastic surface 311 is compressed and deformed between the battery pack BTRC side and the frame 2 side (first bracket 351 side), generating a restoring force against this compression deformation. Therefore, one component of the restoring direction of the first elastic surface 311 is the other direction DR2 (outer side in the vehicle width direction in this embodiment). Another component of the restoring direction of the first elastic surface 311 is a side orthogonal to the other direction DR2 (rear side in this embodiment). On the other hand, the battery pack BTRC has an inclined surface that is tilted along the first elastic surface 311. As a result, the battery pack BTRC is pushed back in the other direction DR2 under the restoring force of the first elastic surface 311, and is pushed back towards the rear of the vehicle.

[0160] The second elastic surface 312 is positioned further forward of the vehicle (in the -Y direction) than the first elastic surface 311. In other words, the first elastic surface 311 and the second elastic surface 312 are spaced apart from each other in the vehicle's longitudinal direction (Y direction).

[0161] The second elastic body 300B is configured such that its plate surface 310 forms a second elastic surface 312, which is inclined to the other side (in this embodiment, the front side of the vehicle) in a direction orthogonal to one direction DR1 and another direction DR2 (outer side in the vehicle width direction) and along the horizontal plane. Furthermore, the inclination angle of the second elastic surface 312 towards the other side in a direction orthogonal to the other direction DR2 is set according to the weight, size, etc. of the battery BTR. The second elastic body 300B forms the second elastic surface 312 with its plate surface 310 (see...). Figure 14 The plate 310 is mounted on the side of the frame 2 by means of the second bracket 352 and the bracket 5a. Specifically, the plate 310 is mounted between the end of the bracket 5 on the front side of the vehicle and the center part in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, thereby forming the second elastic surface 312.

[0162] When the battery BTR is pulled in one direction DR1, the second elastic surface 312 is compressed and deformed between the battery pack BTRC side and the frame 2 side (second bracket 352 side), generating a restoring force against this compression deformation. Thus, one component of the restoring direction of the second elastic surface 312 is the other direction DR2 (outer side in the vehicle width direction). Another component of the restoring direction of the second elastic surface 312 is the other side (front side of the vehicle) in an orthogonal direction along the horizontal plane relative to the other direction DR2. On the other hand, the battery pack BTRC has an inclined surface that is tilted along the second elastic surface 312. As a result, the battery pack BTRC is pushed back in the other direction DR2 under the restoring force of the second elastic surface 312, and is pushed back towards the front of the vehicle. It should be noted that the force pushing the battery pack BTRC back towards the rear of the vehicle under the restoring force of the first elastic surface 311 and the force pushing the battery pack BTRC back towards the front of the vehicle under the restoring force of the second elastic surface 312 are balanced.

[0163] According to the above structure, when the battery BTR is supported on the side of the frame 2 in a state of being pulled in one direction DR1 (inner side in the vehicle width direction), even if the battery pack BTRC moves relative to the frame 2 in the vehicle width direction (X direction) due to vehicle vibration, the battery BTR is supported in a state where the reaction force in another direction DR2 generated by the restoring force of the first elastic surface 311 is balanced with the pulling force in one direction DR1, and the battery BTR is supported in a state where the reaction force in another direction DR2 generated by the restoring force of the second elastic surface 312 is balanced with the pulling force in one direction DR1. Therefore, the swaying of the battery BTR in the vehicle width direction (X direction) can be suppressed. In addition, even if the battery pack BTRC moves relative to the frame 2 in the vehicle longitudinal direction (Y direction) due to vehicle vibration, the battery BTR is supported in a state of balance in the vehicle longitudinal direction (Y direction) by the restoring forces of the first elastic surface 311 and the second elastic surface 312. Therefore, the swaying of the battery BTR in the vehicle longitudinal direction (Y direction) can be suppressed.

[0164] The above describes the elastomer 300A mounted on the first bracket 351. The elastomer 300B mounted on the second bracket 352 is the same as the elastomer 300A. That is, even if the battery pack BTRC moves relative to the frame 2 in the vehicle width direction (X direction) due to vehicle vibration, the battery BTR is supported in a state where the reaction force in another direction DR2 generated by the restoring force of the first elastic surface 311 is balanced with the pulling force in one direction DR1. Furthermore, the battery BTR is supported in a state where the reaction force in another direction DR2 generated by the restoring force of the second elastic surface 312 is balanced with the pulling force in one direction DR1. Therefore, the swaying of the battery BTR in the vehicle width direction (X direction) can be suppressed. Furthermore, even if the battery box BTRC moves relative to the frame 2 in the vehicle's longitudinal direction (Y direction) due to vehicle vibration, the battery BTR is supported in a balanced state in the vehicle's longitudinal direction (Y direction) by the restoring forces of the first elastic surface 311 and the second elastic surface 312, thus suppressing the swaying of the battery BTR in the vehicle's longitudinal direction (Y direction).

[0165] As described above, by providing elastomers 300A and 300B, the swaying of the battery BTR in the vehicle width direction (X direction) can be suppressed. Furthermore, the swaying of the battery BTR in the vehicle longitudinal direction (Y direction) can be suppressed. Moreover, as described above, since the upward movement (+Z direction) of the battery BTR mounted on the top plate 8a is restricted by the WL latch 9, the swaying of the battery BTR in the vertical direction (Z direction) can be suppressed.

[0166] Furthermore, an elastomer assembly 300S, formed by combining elastomers 300A and 300B, is also disposed on the bracket 5b. The two elastomer assemblies 300S are disposed vertically spaced on the bracket 5b. Therefore, when the battery BTR is pulled in one direction DR1 (towards frame 2), since the battery BTR is uniformly subjected to the reaction force against the pulling force in the vehicle's longitudinal direction (Y direction), the battery BTR is not subjected to moment loads, such as those around the front end of the vehicle or around the rear end of the vehicle, thus the battery BTR is stably mounted on the frame 2 side. From this perspective, it is also possible to suppress the swaying of the battery BTR caused by vehicle vibration.

[0167] Furthermore, elastomer assemblies 300S are disposed at both ends of the sidewall of the battery BTR in the vehicle longitudinal direction, and a battery connector BCN is disposed at the center of the sidewall of the battery BTR in the vehicle longitudinal direction. The central position of the sidewall of the battery BTR in the vehicle longitudinal direction effectively suppresses the shaking of the battery BTR caused by vehicle vibration. This maintains electrical connection with the vehicle-side connector FCN.

[0168] (Battery Unit BTR)

[0169] Next, the battery cell will be described. It should be noted that in the following description, the battery cell will also be referred to simply as "battery" and will also be expressed as battery BTR or battery cell BTR.

[0170] The battery unit BTR includes a battery pack (not shown), a battery housing BTRC, a battery cover BCVR, and a battery connector BCN. The battery pack BP includes multiple battery modules (not shown), a power wiring harness (not shown), a battery management unit (not shown), and a junction box (not shown).

[0171] (Battery box BTRC)

[0172] The battery pack BTRC has a receiving portion BCC for accommodating the battery pack BP. The receiving portion BCC has a predetermined length corresponding to the cuboid shape of the battery pack BP in the short side direction, long side direction, and height direction. In this embodiment, the battery BTR is supported on the side of the vehicle 1 with the short side direction being the vehicle width direction (X direction), the long side direction being the vehicle front-rear direction (Y direction), and the height direction being the vehicle height direction. In the following description, the short side direction is referred to as the X direction, one side of the short side direction is referred to as the "+X direction," and the other side of the short side direction is referred to as the "-X direction." Similarly, the long side direction is referred to as the Y direction, one side of the long side direction is referred to as the "+Y direction," and the other side of the long side direction is referred to as the "-Y direction." Furthermore, the height direction is referred to as the Z direction, the upward direction is referred to as the upper side or "+Z direction," and the downward direction is referred to as the lower side or "-Z direction."

[0173] The battery compartment BTRC has a bottom wall portion BWL and two side walls SWL for housing the battery pack BP. One of the side walls SWL is an upright side wall portion extending upward (+Z direction) from one end of the long side of the bottom wall portion BWL. The other side wall portion SWL is an upright side wall portion extending upward (+Z direction) from the other end of the long side of the bottom wall portion BWL. The receiving portion BCC is open to one side (+X direction), the other side (-X direction), and upward (+Z direction).

[0174] (Battery cover BCVR)

[0175] The battery cover BCVR has a side wall portion WL1 in the short side direction, a side wall portion WL2 in the other short side direction, and an upper side wall portion WL3. When the battery cover BCVR is assembled into the battery box BTRC, the receiving part BCC (battery pack BP) is covered from one side (+X direction), the other side (-X direction), and the upper side (+Z direction). It should be noted that the side wall portion WL2 in the short side direction corresponds to the "vertical wall" of this disclosure. In the following description, the side wall portion WL2 in the short side direction will be referred to as the vertical wall 50.

[0176] The vertical wall 50 (the wall portion WL2 on the other side in the short side direction) has a front side 51 facing the other side in the short side direction (-X direction) and a back side 52 facing the side in the short side direction (+X direction). The vertical wall 50 has a through hole 54. The through hole 54 is a hole that passes through from the front side 51 to the back side 52 in the short side direction (X direction). A battery connector BCN is disposed on the front side 51. In addition, a battery pack BP is disposed on the back side 52.

[0177] (Battery Connector BCN)

[0178] The battery connector BCN is a connector that connects to a busbar (not shown) that acts as a conductor. The battery connector BCN is electrically connected to the battery module (not shown) via the busbar, power harness (not shown), and junction box (not shown).

[0179] The battery connector BCN has a resin body 60. The body 60 has a rectangular shape. A bottom hole 61 extending through the short side (X direction) is provided at each of the four corners of the body 60. A groove 62 is provided on the back side of the body 60 facing the vertical wall 50 for inserting a sealing part 75 (described later).

[0180] When the battery unit BTR is supported in a state where it is pulled into the vehicle 1 side, the battery connector BCN and the vehicle-side connector FCN fixed to the frame 2 (see reference) Figure 9 , Figure 10 Electrical connection. The vehicle-side connector FCN is electrically connected to the motor MTR side via a power harness (not shown).

[0181] (Battery connector assembly structure 400)

[0182] Next, refer to Figure 19 , Figure 20 , Figure 21 and Figure 22 The assembly structure 400 of the battery connector is described. Figure 19 This is a perspective view of the assembly structure of the battery connector according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from the opposite side at an angle from the shorter side. Figure 20This is a partially exploded perspective view of a portion of the assembly structure of the battery connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from an oblique side in the short side direction. Figure 21 This is a partial cross-sectional view along the vertical direction of the assembly structure of the battery connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 22 This is a diagram depicting the movement of moisture, drawn in a partial cross-sectional view along the vertical direction of the assembly structure of the battery connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. It should be noted that... Figure 20 , Figure 21 and Figure 22 The image shows panel 50p, which is part of the vertical wall 50. Additionally, Figure 22 In the image, thick solid arrows represent the movement of water.

[0183] In this embodiment, a through hole 54 is provided on the panel 50p. In addition, a wiring opening 56 is provided on the panel 50p, and a work opening 57 is provided at a position lower (in the -Z direction) than the wiring opening 56.

[0184] A battery connector BCN is disposed on the battery cover BCVR. Specifically, the battery connector BCN is disposed on the vertical wall 50 in a manner corresponding to the position of the wiring opening 56. When the battery connector BCN is disposed as described above, the bottom hole 61 and the through hole 54 disposed at each of the four corners of the main body 60 are respectively positioned.

[0185] (Fasteners BLT, Plate 70)

[0186] Fastener BLT and plate 70 are used when assembling battery connector BCN. Plate 70 has a front side 71 ("outer side" of this disclosure), a back side 72 ("inner side" of this disclosure), and a wiring opening 73. The front side 71 is configured opposite to the back side 52. The front side 71 has a recess 74. The recess 74 is recessed from the front side 71 side towards the back side 72 side to the head BLT2 of fastener BLT (see reference). Figure 21 , Figure 22 The thickness of the part is corresponding to the dimensions. Therefore, the head BLT2 will not protrude from the front side 71 to the back side 52 (the "inner side" of this disclosure). The wiring opening 73 is positioned corresponding to the position of the wiring opening 56.

[0187] The front side 71 and the back side 52 of the panel are arranged opposite each other. A liquid gasket 76, serving as a waterproofing element, is disposed in a designated area 55 to fill the gap between the front side 71 and the back side 52. The designated area 55 has an inner periphery and an outer periphery, and four through holes 54 are disposed in the area between the inner and outer peripheries. In other words, the liquid gasket 76 is disposed in the designated area 55 to surround the four through holes 54. Figure 20 The image shows the designated area 55 where the liquid pad 76 is configured.

[0188] The fastener BLT is, for example, a bolt, having a screw portion BLT1 and a head BLT2. The screw portion BLT1 passes through the through hole 54 and the bottom hole 61 from the back side 52 to the front side 51 (the “outer side” of this disclosure). As described above, the head BLT2 engages with the recess 74 and is fused to the front side 71 of the plate.

[0189] (Assembly method for battery connector BCN)

[0190] Next, the assembly method of the battery connector BCN according to the embodiment of this disclosure will be described. It should be noted that a liquid gasket 76 (waterproof portion) is pre-applied to a designated area 55 on the back surface 52. Additionally, a sealing portion 75 is embedded in the groove 62 of the main body 60.

[0191] First, the body 60 of the battery connector BCN is configured such that the bottom hole 61 corresponds to the through hole 54 in the vertical wall 50 (panel 50p).

[0192] Next, the plate 70 is arranged such that the screw portion BLT1 passes through the bottom hole 61 and the through hole 54, and the front side 71 and the back side 52 are in close contact. As a result, the screw portion BLT1 protrudes towards the front side 51, and the liquid gasket 76 (waterproof part) is disposed in the gap between the front side 71 and the back side 52 of the plate.

[0193] Next, screw the nut NT into the screw part BLT1 that protrudes towards the front 51 side, and secure the battery connector BCN to the upright wall 50 (panel 50p) by the nut NT.

[0194] The battery connector assembly structure 400 of the above embodiment includes: a vertical wall 50 (panel 50p) having a front side 51 and a back side 52, a battery pack BP disposed on the back side 52 side, and an opening having a through hole 54 extending horizontally from the front side 51 side to the back side 52 side; a battery connector BCN having a bottom hole 61 extending horizontally, the bottom hole 61 being disposed in a manner corresponding to the through hole 54; a fastener BLT having a screw portion 41 and a head 42; and a plate 70 having a plate front side 71 disposed opposite to the back side 52, the head BLT2 being fused and fixed to the plate front side 71. In this battery connector assembly structure 400, the battery connector BCN is fastened to the front side 51 side by the fastener BLT, which is inserted from the back side 52 side to the front side 51 side through the through hole 54 and the bottom hole 61 by the screw portion BLT1. The battery connector assembly structure 400 also includes a liquid gasket 76 disposed on the plate front side 71 side in a manner surrounding the through hole 54.

[0195] According to the above structure, moisture such as rainwater adhering to the front side 51 of the vertical wall 50 passes through the gap between the through hole 54 and the screw portion 41 from the bottom hole 61 of the battery connector BCN and moves towards the front side 71. The moisture that has moved to the front side 71 needs to move further towards the back side 52 (battery pack BP side), but because a liquid gasket 76 is arranged on the front side 71, opposite to the back side 52, surrounding the through hole 54, the moisture moving to the front side 71 cannot move to the back side 52 due to the liquid gasket 76 (waterproof part). As a result, it is possible to prevent moisture adhering to the front side 51 of the vertical wall 50 from moving towards the battery pack BP side. Therefore, the watertightness of the battery connector BCN can be ensured.

[0196] Furthermore, in the battery connector assembly structure 400 of the above embodiment, the waterproof portion is further configured to fill the gap between the front side 71 and the back side 52 of the plate. As a result, moisture moving to the front side 71 will not pass through the gap and cannot move to the back side 52. Consequently, since moisture will not move towards the battery pack BP side, the water tightness of the battery connector BCN can be further improved.

[0197] Furthermore, in the battery connector assembly structure 400 of the above embodiment, the head BLT1 is fused to the front side 71 of the board. As a result, moisture remains on the front side 71 of the board, preventing moisture from moving from the front side 71 to the back side 72 of the board, thus further improving the water tightness of the battery connector BCN.

[0198] Furthermore, the battery cell BTR in the above embodiment includes: the battery connector assembly structure 400 described above; a battery case BTRC having a receiving portion BSS for accommodating the battery pack BP; and a battery cover BCVR having a vertical wall 50, and arranged such that the back side 52 of the vertical wall 50 is the receiving portion BSS side. This prevents rainwater or other moisture adhering to the battery connector BCN from seeping into the receiving portion BCC side from the battery connector BCN side.

[0199] Furthermore, the battery cell BTR support structure in the above embodiment includes a constraint member. When the battery cell BTR is pulled into the vehicle side with a predetermined force, this constraint member constrains the battery cell BTR in such a way that the battery cell BTR receives a reaction force against the predetermined force while it is being pulled into the vehicle side. Thus, the battery BTR is constrained while being pulled into the vehicle 1 side, preventing relative movement of the battery BTR relative to the vehicle 1, thereby suppressing swaying of the battery BTR caused by vehicle vibration.

[0200] Furthermore, in the battery cell support structure of the above embodiment, the constraint member 10 is arranged opposite to the two sides of the position where the battery connector BCN is configured. Therefore, the two sides of the battery connector BCN are constrained in a state where they are pulled into the vehicle 1 side, and the two sides of the battery connector BCN will not move relative to the vehicle 1. Consequently, the connector CN, which is positioned between these two sides, will not move relative to the vehicle-side connector FCN configured on the vehicle 1 side, thereby reliably maintaining the connection between the connectors.

[0201] Furthermore, the battery cell support structure of the above embodiment also includes: a first latch 11 as a constraint member 10, which pulls the battery cell BTR toward the vehicle 1 side by means of a first latch STR1 disposed on one of the two sides; and a second latch 12 as a constraint member 10, which pulls the battery cell BTR toward the vehicle 1 side by means of a second latch STR2 disposed on the other side. Thus, the first latch 11 and the second latch 12 can reliably pull the two sides of the battery BTR toward the vehicle 1 side.

[0202] It should be noted that in the battery connector assembly structure 400 of the above embodiment, the liquid gasket 76, which is configured to surround the four through holes 54 together, is described as a waterproof part. However, the waterproof part of this disclosure may also be configured to surround each of the four through holes 54 separately, and is not limited to the liquid gasket 76.

[0203] Furthermore, the position where the battery connector BCN of this disclosure is assembled can be appropriately changed according to the shape of the battery cover BTRC (e.g., the opening direction of the receiving portion BCC), the configuration position of the battery cell BTR relative to the vehicle 1, the vehicle structure, the specifications of the battery cell BTR, etc. Additionally, since the battery connector BCN is electrically connected to the vehicle-side connector FCN when the battery cell BTR is supported in a state where it is pulled into the vehicle 1 side, the installation position of the battery connector BCN can be changed depending on the pulling direction.

[0204] Furthermore, the above embodiments are merely specific examples of implementing this disclosure, and the technical scope of this disclosure should not be limited to these embodiments. That is, this disclosure can be implemented in various forms without departing from its essential points or main features.

[0205] Industrial applicability

[0206] This disclosure is suitable for vehicles with assembly structures that require battery connectors that ensure water tightness.

Claims

1. An assembly structure for a battery connector, characterized in that, have: A battery cover that accommodates a battery pack and has a vertical wall with an opening and a through hole extending from the outside to the inside. A battery connector is disposed on the battery cover and has a bottom hole at a position corresponding to the through hole; Fastener, having a screw part and a head; as well as The plate has an outer surface, and the head is fused and fixed to the outer surface at a position corresponding to the bottom hole. In the assembly structure of the battery connector, the battery connector is fastened to the outer side of the upright wall by a fastener inserted from the inside to the outside through the through hole and the bottom hole by the screw portion. The battery connector assembly structure also includes a waterproof portion configured between the battery cover and the plate in a manner that surrounds the through hole.

2. The assembly structure of the battery connector as described in claim 1, wherein, The waterproof portion is further configured to fill the gap between the outer side of the plate and the inner side of the vertical wall.

3. The assembly structure of the battery connector as described in claim 1, wherein, The head is fused to the outer side of the plate. The outer surface of the plate is formed to fill the gap between it and the head, and functions as the waterproof part.

4. A battery cell, characterized in that, have: The assembly structure of the battery connector as described in claim 1; A battery case having a receiving portion for accommodating the battery pack; and The battery cover has the vertical wall and is configured such that the inner side of the vertical wall is the receiving portion side.

5. A battery cell support structure, characterized in that, The device includes a restraining member that, when the battery cell of claim 4 is pulled into the vehicle side with a predetermined force, restrains the battery cell in such a way that the battery cell is subjected to a reaction force against the predetermined force while the battery cell is being pulled into the vehicle side.

6. The battery cell support structure as described in claim 5, wherein, The constraint component is configured such that it is positioned opposite to the two sides of the location used to configure the battery connector.

7. The battery cell support structure as described in claim 6, wherein, have: As a first latch of the constraining component, the first latch pulls the battery cell toward the vehicle side by means of a first latch disposed at one of the two sides; and As a second latch of the constraining component, the second latch pulls the battery cell toward the vehicle side by means of a second latch of the other of the two sides.

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