Flow channel member, cooling plate, cooling structure, battery module, method for manufacturing cooling structure, and method for manufacturing battery module

Abstract

A flow channel member is bonded to the plate member and defines a flow channel through which a cooling medium flows. The flow channel member includes: a plate portion made of an elastic material and having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface; a first connector protruding from the first surface; and a second connector protruding from the first surface. The first connector includes an inlet for flowing a cooling medium into the flow channel, the inlet being arranged at an end portion of the first connector. The second connector includes an outlet for the cooling medium to flow out of the flow channel, the outlet being arranged at an end portion of the second connector. The second surface has: a first opening communicating with the inlet; and a second opening in communication with the outlet.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a flow passage member, a cooling plate, a cooling structure, a battery module, a method for manufacturing a cooling structure, and a method for manufacturing a battery module. BACKGROUND

[0002] A battery module having battery cells such as lithium-ion batteries includes a cooling structure having flow passages for flowing a cooling medium to cool the battery cells.

[0003] For example, a battery module disclosed in Patent Literature 1 includes stacked battery cells with interposed separators. Each separator includes a cooling passage for flowing a cooling medium to cool a corresponding battery cell, and is made of a resin such as polypropylene. The cooling passage is connected to two chambers, one of the two chambers having a cooling medium inlet and the other of the two chambers having a cooling medium outlet.

[0004] PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS PATENT LITERATURE Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2022-128334 SUMMARY PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION In the battery module disclosed in Patent Literature 1, a separate member having a flow passage is required in addition to the separators to distribute and recover the cooling medium for cooling the battery cells, which increases the complexity and cost of manufacturing.

[0005] In view of the above, an object of the present disclosure is to effectively cool battery cells at low cost.

[0006] MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEMS To solve the above problems, a flow passage member according to a scheme of the present disclosure is bonded to a plate member and defines a flow passage through which a cooling medium flows. The flow passage member includes a plate portion made of an elastic material and having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface, a first connector protruding from the first surface, and a second connector protruding from the first surface. The first connector includes an inlet for flowing the cooling medium into the flow passage, the inlet being arranged at an end portion of the first connector. The second connector includes an outlet for flowing the cooling medium out of the flow passage, the outlet being arranged at an end portion of the second connector. The second surface has a first opening in communication with the inlet and a second opening in communication with the outlet.

[0007] A cooling plate according to the aspect of the present disclosure includes a first member including a plate portion made of an elastic material, and a flat second member bonded to one surface of the plate portion. A flow passage for a cooling medium to flow through is defined between the plate portion and the second plate member. The plate portion has a first surface bonded to the second member, and a second surface opposite to the first surface. The first member includes a first connector protruding from the first surface, and a second connector protruding from the first surface. The first connector includes an inlet for the cooling medium to flow into the flow passage, the inlet being arranged at an end portion of the first connector. The second connector includes an outlet for the cooling medium to flow out of the flow passage, the outlet being arranged at an end portion of the second connector. The second surface has a first opening in communication with the inlet, and a second opening in communication with the outlet.

[0008] A cooling structure according to the aspect of the present disclosure includes a plurality of cooling plates arranged along a thickness direction. Each of the plurality of cooling plates includes a first member including a plate portion made of an elastic material, and a flat second member bonded to one surface of the plate portion. A flow passage for a cooling medium to flow through is defined between the plate portion and the second plate member. The plate portion has a first surface bonded to the second member, and a second surface opposite to the first surface. The first member includes a first connector protruding from the first surface, and a second connector protruding from the first surface. The first connector includes an inlet for the cooling medium to flow into the flow passage, the inlet being arranged at an end portion of the first connector. The second connector includes an outlet for the cooling medium to flow out of the flow passage, the outlet being arranged at an end portion of the second connector. The second surface has a first opening in communication with the inlet, and a second opening in communication with the outlet. Between two adjacent cooling plates, the inlet of one cooling plate is in communication with the first opening of the other cooling plate, and the outlet of one cooling plate is in communication with the second opening of the other cooling plate.

[0009] A battery module according to the scheme of the present disclosure includes: a plurality of battery cells; and a cooling structure including a plurality of cooling plates arranged along a thickness direction. Each of the plurality of cooling plates includes: a first member including a plate portion made of an elastic material; and a flat second member bonded to one surface of the plate portion. A flow passage for a cooling medium to flow through is defined between the plate portion and the second plate member. The plate portion has: a first surface bonded to the second member; and a second surface opposite to the first surface. The first member includes: a first connector protruding from the first surface; and a second connector protruding from the first surface. The first connector includes an inlet for the cooling medium to flow into the flow passage, the inlet being arranged at an end portion of the first connector. The second connector includes an outlet for the cooling medium to flow out of the flow passage, the outlet being arranged at an end portion of the second connector. The second surface has: a first opening in communication with the inlet; and a second opening in communication with the outlet. Between two adjacent cooling plates, the inlet of one cooling plate is in communication with the first opening of the other cooling plate, and the outlet of one cooling plate is in communication with the second opening of the other cooling plate.

[0010] A method according to the scheme of the present disclosure is a method for manufacturing a cooling plate including a plurality of cooling plates arranged along a thickness direction. The method includes: a preparation step in which the plurality of cooling plates are prepared; and a stacking step in which the plurality of cooling plates are stacked. Each of the plurality of cooling plates includes: a first member including a plate portion made of an elastic material; and a flat second member bonded to one surface of the plate portion. A flow passage for a cooling medium to flow through is defined between the plate portion and the second plate member. The plate portion has: a first surface bonded to the second member; and a second surface opposite to the first surface. The first member includes: a first connector protruding from the first surface; and a second connector protruding from the first surface. The first connector includes an inlet for the cooling medium to flow into the flow passage, the inlet being arranged at an end portion of the first connector. The second connector includes an outlet for the cooling medium to flow out of the flow passage, the outlet being arranged at an end portion of the second connector. The second surface has: a first opening in communication with the inlet; and a second opening in communication with the outlet. In the stacking step, between two adjacent cooling plates, the inlet of one cooling plate is in communication with the first opening of the other cooling plate, and the outlet of one cooling plate is in communication with the second opening of the other cooling plate.

[0011] The method according to the aspect of the present disclosure is a method for manufacturing a battery module including: a plurality of battery cells; and a cooling structure including a plurality of cooling plates arranged along a thickness direction. The method includes: a preparation step in which the cooling structure is prepared; and a mounting step in which each of the plurality of battery cells is mounted between adjacent ones of the plurality of cooling plates. Each of the plurality of cooling plates includes: a first member including a plate portion made of an elastic material; and a flat second member bonded to one surface of the plate portion. A flow passage for a cooling medium to flow through is defined between the plate portion and the second plate member. The plate portion has: a first surface bonded to the second member; and a second surface opposite the first surface. The first member includes: a first connector protruding from the first surface; and a second connector protruding from the first surface. The first connector includes an inlet for the cooling medium to flow into the flow passage, the inlet being arranged at an end portion of the first connector. The second connector includes an outlet for the cooling medium to flow out of the flow passage, the outlet being arranged at an end portion of the second connector. The second surface has: a first opening in communication with the inlet; and a second opening in communication with the outlet. Between two adjacent cooling plates, the inlet of one cooling plate is in communication with the first opening of the other cooling plate, and the outlet of one cooling plate is in communication with the second opening of the other cooling plate. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0012] [ Figure 1 ] is a side view of a battery module according to an embodiment.

[0013] [ Figure 2 ] is a perspective view of a cooling structure according to an embodiment.

[0014] [ Figure 3 ] is a perspective cross-sectional view of a cooling structure according to an embodiment.

[0015] [ Figure 4 ] is an exploded perspective view of a cooling plate according to an embodiment.

[0016] [ Figure 5 ] is a perspective view of a cooling plate according to an embodiment, as viewed from a Y1 direction.

[0017] [ Figure 6 ] is a perspective view of a cooling plate according to an embodiment, as viewed from a Y2 direction.

[0018] [ Figure 7 ] is a flowchart of a method for manufacturing a battery module according to an embodiment.

[0019] [ Figure 8 ] illustrates a preparation step in which a cooling plate is prepared.

[0020] [ Figure 9 ] illustrates a stacking step in which cooling plates are stacked.

[0021] [ Figure 10 ] illustrates a mounting step in which battery cells are mounted to a cooling structure.

[0022] [ Figure 11 ] illustrates an attaching step in which a restriction member is attached to a cooling structure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the size and the proportions of the components shown are different from those of actual components, and some components are schematically shown for the sake of clarity. The scope of the present disclosure is not limited to this embodiment unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0024] 1. Embodiment 1-1. Battery module Figure 1 is a side view of a battery module 100 according to this embodiment. In one example, the battery module 100 can be a lithium-ion battery, a nickel-hydrogen battery, or an all-solid-state battery. As shown, the battery module 100 includes a plurality of battery cells 110, a cooling structure 120, and a restriction member 130. Figure 1

[0025] A brief description of the components of the battery module 100 will be given below with reference to Figure 1 For ease of description, the X-axis, the Y-axis, and the Z-axis, which are orthogonal to each other, will be appropriately referred to. The Y-axis is parallel to the thickness direction of the cooling plate 1 described later. In the following description, the direction along the X-axis is defined as the XI direction, and the direction opposite to the XI direction is defined as the X2 direction. The direction along the Y-axis is defined as the Yl direction, and the direction opposite to the Yl direction is defined as the Y2 direction. The direction along the Z-axis is defined as the Zl direction, and the direction opposite to the Zl direction is defined as the Z2 direction. The relationship with the vertical direction is not particularly limited and can be freely selected. A view along the Y-axis can be referred to as a "plan view".

[0026] Each of the battery cells 110 is a single flat battery, and can be any one of a lithium-ion battery cell, a nickel-hydrogen battery cell, and an all-solid-state battery cell. The battery cells 110 are arranged at intervals in the thickness direction along the Y-axis.

[0027] A lead wire 111 is connected to each of the battery cells 110. The lead wire 111 includes a lead wire connected to the positive electrode (not shown) of the battery cell 110 and a lead wire connected to the negative electrode (not shown) of the battery cell 110. In Figure 1 ​In the example shown, wire 111 passes through each of the battery cells 110 in the Z2 direction to the outside of the battery module 100.

[0028] Cooling structure 120 uses a cooling medium to cool battery cell 110. The cooling medium is liquid at room temperature under pressure within cooling structure 120. Specific examples of cooling media include, but are not limited to: water, alcohols (such as methanol and ethanol), ketones (such as acetone), glycols (such as ethylene glycol), fluorocarbons (such as fluoride salts), fluorocarbons (such as HFC134a), and hydrocarbons (such as butane). A single cooling medium may be used, or two or more cooling media may be used in combination.

[0029] The cooling structure 120 includes a plurality of flat cooling plates 1. The cooling plates 1 are arranged along the Y-axis in the thickness direction. A battery cell 110 is inserted between every two adjacent cooling plates 1. The battery cell 110 may be arranged relative to the cooling structure 120 along the Y1 direction, or the Y2 direction, or along both the Y1 and Y2 directions.

[0030] The limiting member 130 is a structure that clamps the two ends of the cooling structure 120 containing the battery cell 110 along the Y-axis.

[0031] exist Figure 1 In the example shown, the limiting member 130 includes limiting plates 131 and 132, bolts 133, and nuts 134. Each of the limiting plates 131 and 132 is flat, generally rigid, and made of a metal such as iron, aluminum, or an aluminum alloy. Limiting plate 131 is positioned along the Y1 direction (corresponding to the positive direction of the Y-axis) of the cooling structure 120. Limiting plate 132 is arranged along the Y2 direction (corresponding to the negative direction of the Y-axis) of the cooling structure 120. Bolts 133 extend along the Y-axis in the Y2 direction, with one bolt passing through limiting plate 131 and another bolt passing through limiting plate 132. The head of bolt 133 is arranged along the Y1 direction of limiting plate 131 and contacts the surface of limiting plate 131. Bolt 133 has external threads, a portion of each external thread being arranged along the Y2 direction of limiting plate 132. Nuts 134 correspond one-to-one with bolts 133. Nut 134 is fitted into the corresponding external thread of bolt 133 along the Y2 direction of limiting plate 132, thereby limiting the movement of limiting plates 131 and 132 and preventing limiting plates 131 and 132 from separating.

[0032] Therefore, the cooling structure 120 containing the battery cell 110 is clamped between the limiting plates 131 and 132 under a predetermined pressure. Note that... Figure 1The configuration of the limiting member 130 shown is not limited to the configuration described above. The configuration can be freely chosen as long as the cooling structure 120 is clamped at both ends along the Y-axis. For example, the limiting member 130 of the cooling structure 120 can be a box-shaped housing. The limiting member 130 can be provided as needed and can be omitted appropriately.

[0033] The battery module 100 includes a battery cell 110 and a cooling structure 120.

[0034] 1-2. Cooling Structure Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the cooling structure 120 according to this embodiment. Figure 2 In the cooling structure 120, there are ten cooling plates 1, which are designated as 1-1, 1-2, 1-3, 1-4, 1-5, 1-6, 1-7, 1-8, 1-9, and 1-10, respectively. Furthermore, the cooling structure 120 includes nine battery cells 110, which are designated as 110-1, 110-2, 110-3, 110-4, 110-5, 110-6, 110-7, 110-8, and 110-9, respectively.

[0035] In the following text, cooling plates 1-1, 1-2, 1-3, 1-4, 1-5, 1-6, 1-7, 1-8, 1-9, and 1-10 are collectively referred to as "cooling plates 1-1 to 1-10". In some examples, cooling plates 1-1 to 1-10 may be referred to as "cooling plate 1" without distinction between them. Battery cells 110-1, 110-2, 110-3, 110-4, 110-5, 110-6, 110-7, 110-8, and 110-9 may be collectively referred to as "battery cells 110-1 to 110-9". In some examples, battery cells 110-1 to 110-9 may be referred to as "battery cell 110" without distinction between them.

[0036] like Figure 2 As shown, the cooling structure 120 includes cooling plates 1-1 to 1-10. The cooling plates 1-1 to 1-10 are installed sequentially in the Y1 direction in the order of 1-1, 1-2, 1-3, 1-4, 1-5, 1-6, 1-7, 1-8, 1-9, 1-10. Each of the cooling plates 1-1 to 1-10 has the same configuration and orientation.

[0037] The cooling structure 120 includes battery cells 110-1 to 110-9. The battery cells 110-1 to 110-9 are installed sequentially in the Y1 direction in the order of 110-1, 110-2, 110-3, 110-4, 110-5, 110-6, 110-7, 110-8, and 110-9.

[0038] Battery unit 110-1 is inserted between cooling plate 1-1 and cooling plate 1-2. Battery unit 110-2 is inserted between cooling plate 1-2 and cooling plate 1-3. Battery unit 110-3 is inserted between cooling plate 1-3 and cooling plate 1-4. Battery unit 110-4 is inserted between cooling plate 1-4 and cooling plate 1-5. Battery unit 110-5 is inserted between cooling plate 1-5 and cooling plate 1-6. Battery unit 110-6 is inserted between cooling plate 1-6 and cooling plate 1-7. Battery unit 110-7 is inserted between cooling plate 1-7 and cooling plate 1-8. Battery unit 110-8 is inserted between cooling plate 1-8 and cooling plate 1-9. Battery unit 110-9 is inserted between cooling plate 1-9 and cooling plate 1-10.

[0039] Each cooling plate 1 includes a first component 10 (an example of a "flow channel component") and a second component 20 (an example of a "plate component"). The first component 10 is bonded to the second component 20 using an adhesive to define a flow channel R between the first component 10 and the second component 20. Cooling medium flows through the flow channel R.

[0040] Figure 3 This is a perspective cross-sectional view of the cooling structure 120 according to this embodiment. Figure 3 Described with Figure 2 The cross-section of the cooling structure 120 shown is orthogonal to the X-axis. (See diagram below.) Figure 3 As shown, flow channels Ra and Rb within the cooling structure 120 are defined by the interconnection of cooling plates 1-1 to 1-10. This allows flow channels R within the respective cooling plates 1-1 to 1-10 to be interconnected via flow channels Ra and Rb. Flow channel Ra is used to distribute the cooling medium into flow channel R and is formed by a plurality of first conduits Sa (described later). Flow channel Rb is used to recover the cooling medium from flow channel R and is formed by a plurality of second conduits Sb (described later). The ends of flow channels Ra and Rb in the Y1 direction are sealed with plugs 121 (such as rubber plugs). Cooling medium is supplied to the end of flow channel Ra in the Y2 direction and distributed into flow channels R of cooling plates 1-1 to 1-10. Subsequently, the cooling medium is recovered from flow channels R of cooling plates 1-1 to 1-10 into flow channel Rb and exits through the end of flow channel Ra in the Y2 direction.

[0041] Therefore, the cooling structure 120 includes a cooling plate 1 arranged along the thickness direction.

[0042] 1-3. Cooling plate Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of the cooling plate 1 according to this embodiment. Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the cooling plate 1 viewed from the Y1 direction according to this embodiment. Figure 6This is a perspective view of the cooling plate 1 viewed from the Y2 direction according to this embodiment. Figure 5 and Figure 6 In the diagram, the cooling plate 1 is depicted with solid lines, and the battery cell 110 and the wire 111 are depicted with two types of dashed lines respectively.

[0043] like Figure 4 to Figure 6 As shown, the cooling plate 1 includes a first component 10 (an example of a "flow channel component") and a second component 20 (an example of a "plate component"). A detailed description of the first component 10 and the second component 20 will now be given.

[0044] The first component 10 defines the flow channel R. The first component 10 includes a plate portion 11, a recess 12, a first connector 13, a second connector 14, a protrusion 15, a protrusion 16, and a plurality of protrusions 17. These components are integrally formed into a single piece from an elastic material.

[0045] Examples of elastic materials include thermosetting elastomers and thermoplastic elastomers. Examples of thermosetting elastomers include isoprene rubber, butadiene rubber, styrene-butadiene rubber, chloroprene rubber, butyl rubber, ethylene propylene rubber, chlorosulfonated polyethylene, acrylic rubber, fluororubber, epichlorohydrin rubber, urethane rubber, and silicone rubber. Examples of thermoplastic elastomers include polystyrene, olefin / olefin, polyvinyl chloride, polyurethane, polyester, and polyamide. Among these materials, silicone rubber is preferred due to its heat resistance. Inorganic fillers can be added to the elastomer material to enhance thermal conductivity. Examples of inorganic fillers include, but are not limited to, silica, talc, and alumina. The first component 10 can be made of two or more different elastic materials by two-color molding. The portion of the first component 10 other than the plate portion 11 can be made of materials other than elastic materials, such as resin.

[0046] The plate portion 11 is a flat portion of the first member 10 and has a first surface F1 and a second surface F2. The first surface is bonded to the second member 20. The second surface F2 is opposite to the first surface F1. Figure 4 to Figure 6 In the example shown, the first surface F1 faces the Y2 direction, and the second surface F2 faces the Y1 direction. The plate portion 11 is quadrilateral in the plan view. The shape of the plate portion 11 is not limited to... Figure 4 to Figure 6 The shapes shown are available for selection.

[0047] like Figure 4 As shown, the recess 12 is provided in the first surface F1 and defines a flow channel R. Figure 4 In the example shown, in the plan view, the recess 12 has two portions extending along the Z-axis and a portion connecting the respective ends of the two portions along the Z1 direction. The recess 12 has angled or curved portions in the plan view. Note that the shapes of the recess 12 and the flow channel R are not limited to...Figure 4 The shape shown in the plan view, and can be any shape such as a snake.

[0048] A first inlet port Sa2 and a second inlet port Sb2 are disposed in the recess 12. The first inlet port Sa2 communicates with the first conduit Sa and the flow channel R, allowing the cooling medium to flow into the flow channel R through the first conduit Sa. The second inlet port Sb2 communicates with the second conduit Sb and the flow channel R, allowing the cooling medium to flow out of the flow channel R through the second conduit Sb. Figure 4 In the example shown, the first inlet port Sa2 is arranged near the end of one portion of the recess 12 extending in the Z2 direction, and the second inlet port Sb2 is arranged near the opposite end of the other portion. The flow channel R is shaped to have angled or curved portions extending from the first inlet port Sa2 toward the second inlet port Sb2.

[0049] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the first connector 13 is tubular and protrudes from the first surface F1. The first connector 13 includes a first conduit Sa communicating with the flow channel R via a first inlet port Sa2. The first conduit Sa passes through the first member 10 along the extension direction of the first connector 13 and has openings in both the Y1 direction and the second direction. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the opening of the first conduit Sa in the Y2 direction defines the inlet Sa1. The inlet Sa1 is located at the end portion of the first connector 13 and is used to allow the cooling medium to flow into the flow channel.

[0050] exist Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the example shown, the end portion of the first connector 13 is tapered. This shape enhances the liquid-tight seal between the first connector 13 and the first recess 15a (described later). Figure 6 As shown, the opening of the first conduit Sa in the Y1 direction constitutes the first opening Sa3. The first conduit Sa communicates with the inlet Sa1 and the first opening Sa3. The shape of the first connector 13 is not limited to... Figure 4 and Figure 5 The shape shown can have a uniform width or flat ends.

[0051] The second connector 14 is tubular and protrudes from the first surface F1. The second connector 14 includes a second conduit Sb communicating with the flow channel R via a second inlet port Sb2. The second conduit Sb passes through the first member 10 along the extension direction of the second connector 14 and has openings in both the Y1 and second directions. Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, the opening of the second conduit Sb in the Y2 direction defines the outlet Sb1. The outlet Sb1 is located at the end portion of the second connector 14 and is used to allow the cooling medium to flow out from the flow channel.

[0052] exist Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the example shown, the end portion of the second connector 14 is tapered. This shape enhances the liquid seal between the second connector 14 and the second recess 16a (described later). Figure 6 As shown, the opening of the second conduit Sb in the Y1 direction constitutes the second opening Sb3. The second conduit Sb communicates with the outlet Sb1 and the second opening Sb3. The shape of the second connector 14 is not limited to... Figure 4 and Figure 5 The shape shown can have a uniform width or a flat end.

[0053] As shown in the plan view, the first connector 13 and the second connector 14 do not overlap with the battery cell 110. Furthermore, the first connector 13 and the second connector 14 are arranged at intervals along one side of the plate portion 11. Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the example shown, the first connector 13 and the second connector 14 are arranged along the X-axis in the Z2 direction of the plate portion 11. The battery cell 110 is connected to a wire 111, which passes between the first connector 13 and the second connector 14.

[0054] like Figure 6 As shown in the plan view, the protrusion 15 is annular and extends from the second surface F2. The protrusion 15 does not overlap with the battery cell 110. The protrusion 15 is used to guide the insertion of the end portion of the first connector 13 of the other cooling plate portion 1. The protrusion 15 includes a first recess 15a on its inner side. The first recess 15a is disposed on the second surface F2 and shaped to fit with the end portion of the first connector 13. When the end portion of the first connector 13 of the other cooling plate 1 is fitted into the first recess 15a, the two components (i.e., the first recess 15a and the end portion of the first connector 13 of the other cooling plate 1) come into close contact. The first recess 15a has a first opening Sa3. The close contact between the two components establishes a liquid-tight connection between the first opening Sa3 and the inlet Sa1 of the other cooling plate 1. Furthermore, since the plate portion 11 is made of an elastic material, the connection remains liquid-tight. To enhance the liquid-tightness of the connection, preferably, the first connector 13 is made of an elastic material. Note that protrusion 15 can be set as needed and can be omitted appropriately. Figure 6 The shape of the protrusion 15 in the plan view is not limited to this and can be freely chosen.

[0055] The protrusion 16 is annular and extends from the second surface F2, serving to guide the insertion of the end portion of the second connector 14 of the other cooling plate 1. As shown in the plan view, the protrusion 16 does not overlap with the battery cell 110, and the protrusion 16 includes a second recess 16a on its inner side. The second recess 16a is disposed on the second surface F2 and shaped to fit the end portion of the second connector 14. When the end portion of the second connector 14 of the other cooling plate 1 is fitted into the second recess 16a, the two components (i.e., the second recess 16a and the end portion of the second connector 14 of the other cooling plate 1) come into close contact. The second recess 16a has a second opening Sb3. The close contact between the two components establishes a liquid-tight connection between the second opening Sb3 and the outlet Sb1 of the other cooling plate 1. Furthermore, the connection remains liquid-tight because the plate portion 11 is made of an elastic material. To enhance the liquid-tightness of this connection, preferably, the first connector 13 is made of an elastic material. Note that the protrusion 16 can be provided as needed and can be omitted appropriately. The shape of protrusion 16 in the plan view is not limited to Figure 6 And you can choose freely.

[0056] As shown in the plan view, protrusion 17 is arranged on the second surface F2 to overlap with the battery cell 110. This creates a gap between the second surface F2 and the battery cell 110, within which convection occurs. The height of protrusion 17 is not particularly limited, but is preferably uniform. Figure 6 In the example shown in the plan view, the protrusions 17 are arranged in a grid pattern, and each protrusion 17 is circular in shape. The number, arrangement, and shape of the protrusions 17 are not limited to... Figure 6 The quantity, arrangement, and shape shown in the plan view can be freely selected. The protrusion 17 can be provided as needed, or it can be omitted. The omission of the protrusion 17 improves the heat exchange efficiency between the cooling medium in the flow channel R and the battery cell 110 due to the contact between the second surface F2 and the battery cell 110.

[0057] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the second member 20 is flat and is bonded to the first surface F1 of the plate portion 11. By bonding the first member 10 to the second member 20, a flow channel R through which the cooling medium flows is defined between the plate portion 11 and the second member 20. Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the example shown, the second component 20 has openings 21 and 22. The first connector 13 is fitted into opening 21, and the second connector 14 is fitted into opening 22.

[0058] To improve the heat exchange efficiency between the battery cell 110 and the cooling medium within the flow channel R, the second component 20 is made of a metal (such as aluminum, aluminum alloy, copper, copper alloy, iron, and stainless steel). The material constituting the second component 20 is not limited to metal; it can be resin or ceramic.

[0059] In the cooling structure 120 described above, between two adjacent cooling plates 1 arranged along the thickness direction, the inlet Sa1 of one cooling plate 1 is connected to the first opening Sa3 of the other cooling plate 1, and the outlet Sb1 of one cooling plate 1 is connected to the second opening Sb3 of the other cooling plate 1.

[0060] 1-4. Methods for manufacturing battery modules Figure 7 This is a flowchart of a method for manufacturing a battery module 100 according to this embodiment. Figure 7 As shown, a method for manufacturing a battery module 100 includes the following steps performed sequentially: a preparation step S10, in which a cooling structure 120 is prepared; an installation step S3, in which a battery cell 110 is installed onto the cooling structure 120; and an attachment step S4, in which a retainer 130 is attached to the cooling structure 120. Preparation step S10 includes the following steps performed sequentially: a preparation step S1, in which a plurality of cooling plates 1 are prepared; and a stacking step S2, in which the cooling plates 1 are stacked. (Reference) Figure 8 to Figure 11 The steps will now be described in the order of preparation step S1, stacking step S2, mounting step S3, and attachment step S4.

[0061] Figure 8 The preparation step S1 is shown, in which cooling plate 1 is prepared. (See diagram for example.) Figure 8 As shown, preparation step S1 includes bonding the first component 10 to the second component 20 using an adhesive to provide a cooling plate 1. Preparation step S1 includes preparing a plurality of cooling plates 1.

[0062] In one example, the first component 10 is manufactured using conventional manufacturing methods such as compression molding, press fitting, or injection molding. In another example, the second component 20 is manufactured using conventional processing methods such as sheet metal stamping.

[0063] Figure 9 The stacking step S2 is shown, in which cooling plates 1 are stacked. (See diagram.) Figure 9As shown, stacking step S2 includes stacking cooling plates 1-1 to 1-10 to provide cooling structure 120. In stacking step S2, between two adjacent cooling plates 1, the end portion of the first connector 13 of one cooling plate 1 is fitted into the first recess 15a of the other cooling plate 1. Similarly, the end portion of the second connector 14 of one cooling plate 1 is fitted into the second recess 16a of the other cooling plate 1. Thus, the end portion of the first connector 13 of one cooling plate 1 is in close contact with the first recess 15a of the other cooling plate 1. Similarly, the end portion of the second connector 14 of one cooling plate 1 is in close contact with the second recess 16a of the other cooling plate 1.

[0064] As described above, in stacking step S2, between two adjacent cooling plates 1, the inlet Sa1 of one cooling plate 1 communicates with the first opening Sa3 of the other cooling plate 1. Similarly, the outlet Sb1 of one cooling plate 1 communicates with the second opening Sb3 of the other cooling plate 1. A plug 121 is attached to the corresponding first recess 15a and second recess 16a of the cooling plates 1 to 10. By performing these steps, the cooling structure 120 is obtained.

[0065] Figure 10 The diagram illustrates installation step S3, in which multiple battery cells 110 are mounted onto the cooling structure 120. In installation step S3, as... Figure 10 As shown, each battery cell 110 is inserted between adjacent cooling plates 1 to be mounted to the cooling structure 120. Although in Figure 10 Not shown, but in installation step S3, each wire 111 connected to the corresponding battery cell 110 passes between the first connector 13 and the second connector 14.

[0066] By installing step S3, a stack containing cooling plate 1 and battery unit 110 is obtained.

[0067] Figure 11 The attachment step S4 is shown, in which the limiting member 130 is attached to the cooling structure 120. In attachment step S4, as... Figure 11 As shown, limiting plates 131 and 132 are arranged to clamp the stack containing the cooling plate 1 and the battery cell 110. Subsequently, the limiting plates 131 and 132 are fixed to each other by using bolts 133 and nuts 134, thereby mounting the limiting member 130 to the cooling structure 120.

[0068] Therefore, the method for manufacturing the battery module 100 includes: a preparation step S10, in which a cooling structure 120 is prepared; and an installation step S3, in which each battery cell 110 is installed between adjacent cooling plates 1 in the cooling plate 1. Thus, a battery module 100 is obtained that effectively cools the battery cells 110 at low cost.

[0069] The preparation step S10 is an example of a "method for manufacturing a cooling structure 120" and includes: a preparation step S1 in which a cooling plate 1 is prepared; and a stacking step S2 in which the cooling plates 1 are stacked. In the stacking step S2, between two adjacent cooling plates 1, the inlet Sa1 of one cooling plate 1 is connected to the first opening Sa3 of the other cooling plate 1, and the outlet Sb1 of one cooling plate 1 is connected to the second opening Sb3 of the other cooling plate 1.

[0070] The above method provides a cooling structure 120 through a simple stacking step S2, in which cooling plates 1 are stacked. Furthermore, no separate components are required to distribute the cooling medium to and recover the cooling medium from the cooling plates 1. Thus, a cooling structure 120 is obtained that effectively cools the battery cell 110 at low cost.

[0071] By arranging the cooling plates 1 along the thickness direction, the battery cell 110 can be mounted between two adjacent cooling plates 1. As described above, both the first connector 13 and the second connector 14 protrude from the first surface F1 of the plate portion 11, which has a first opening Sa3 and a second opening Sb3 located on the second surface F2. This configuration between the two adjacent cooling plates 1 allows communication between the inlet Sa1 of one cooling plate 1 and the first opening Sa3 of the other cooling plate 1, and between the outlet Sb1 of one cooling plate 1 and the second opening Sb3 of the other cooling plate 1. Therefore, no separate component is needed to distribute the cooling medium to and recover the cooling medium from the cooling plates 1. The plate portion 11, made of an elastic material, absorbs volume changes caused by the expansion and contraction resulting from the heat generated by the battery cell 110. Therefore, the overall volume change of the battery module 100 can be minimized, and close contact between the cooling plates 1 and the battery cell 110 can be maintained. Thus, the battery cell 110 can be cooled effectively and at low cost.

[0072] Compared to the second component 20 made of resin, the second component 20 made of metal improves the cooling efficiency of the battery cell 110 cooled by the cooling plate 1.

[0073] In this embodiment, the second surface F2 includes a first recess 15a and a second recess 16a. The first recess 15a is shaped to fit an end portion of the first connector 13 and has a first opening Sa3. In this configuration, between two adjacent cooling plates 1, the end portion of the first connector 13 of one cooling plate 1 is fitted into the first recess 15a of the other cooling plate 1, thereby providing communication between the inlet Sa1 of one cooling plate 1 and the first opening Sa3 of the other cooling plate 1. The second recess 16a is shaped to fit an end portion of the second connector 14 and has a second opening Sb3. In this configuration, between two adjacent cooling plates 1, the end portion of the second connector 14 of one cooling plate 1 is fitted into the second recess 16a of the other cooling plate 1, thereby providing communication between the outlet Sb1 of one cooling plate 1 and the second opening Sb3 of the other cooling plate 1.

[0074] In this embodiment, the first surface F1 includes a recess 12 defining a flow channel R. Compared to the case where the recess defining the flow channel R is arranged on the second member 20, this configuration allows for easier fabrication of the cooling plate 1.

[0075] The first connector 13 includes a first conduit Sa communicating with an inlet Sa1 and a first opening Sa3. When the first conduits Sa of the corresponding cooling plates 1 are interconnected, a linear flow channel Ra is defined for distributing the cooling medium to the flow channel R of each cooling plate 1. The second connector 14 includes a second conduit Sb communicating with an outlet Sb1 and a second opening Sb3. When the second conduits Sb of the corresponding cooling plates 1 are interconnected, a linear flow channel Rb is defined for recovering the cooling medium from the flow channel R of each cooling plate 1. The linear flow channel achieves a uniform flow rate of the cooling medium within the flow channel R of each cooling plate 1, thereby effectively cooling the battery cell 110.

[0076] The recess 12 includes a first inlet port Sa2 and a second inlet port Sb2 formed on its surface. The first inlet port Sa2 communicates with the first conduit Sa and the flow channel R. The second inlet port Sb2 communicates with the second conduit Sb and the flow channel R. Therefore, with a relatively simple configuration, the cooling medium can flow from the first conduit Sa into the flow channel R via the first inlet port Sa2, and flow out from the flow channel R into the second conduit Sb via the second inlet port Sb2.

[0077] The flow channel R is shaped with an angled or curved portion extending from the first inlet port Sa2 toward the second inlet port Sb2. Compared to a linear flow channel R that extends straight from the first inlet port Sa2 to the second inlet port Sb2, this shape contributes to a more uniform temperature distribution on the cooling plate 1. This is because the cooling medium can easily flow throughout the entire flow channel R.

[0078] The plate portion 11 is quadrilateral in plan view. A first connector 13 and a second connector 14 are arranged spaced apart along one side of the plate portion 11. Each battery cell 110 is connected to a wire 111 that passes between the first connector 13 and the second connector 14. The wire 111 passing between the first connector 13 and the second connector 14 allows for easy access to the battery cell 110.

[0079] The second surface F2 includes a protrusion 17 that defines a gap between the second surface F2 and the battery cell 110. Therefore, the battery cell 110 can be cooled by a cooling medium and by convection within the gap. Furthermore, when the protrusion 17 is elastic, the plate portion 11 absorbs volume changes caused by expansion and contraction due to heat generated by the battery cell 110. Therefore, the overall volume change of the battery module 100 can be minimized.

[0080] 2. Variation Various modifications can be made to the above embodiments. Specific examples of modifications applicable to the embodiments will now be described. Two or more solutions freely chosen from the following examples can be combined, provided that the two or more solutions do not conflict.

[0081] 2-1. Variation 1 In the above embodiment, as an example, the cooling structure 120 includes ten cooling plates 1; however, the number of cooling plates 1 is not limited to this. The number may be nine or less, or eleven or more.

[0082] 2-2. Variation 2 In the above embodiments, as an example, the battery module 100 includes nine battery cells 110; however, the number of battery cells 110 is not limited to this. The number may be eight or less, or ten or more.

[0083] 2-3. Variation 3 In the above embodiment, as an example, the cooling structure 120 includes one more cooling plate 1 than the number of battery cells 110 within the battery module 100. However, this variation is not limited to this. For example, the number of cooling plates 1 in the cooling structure 120 may be less than the number of battery cells 110 within the battery module 100, or it may exceed the number of battery cells 110 by two or more. In this case, 2-4. Variation 4 In the above embodiment, as an example, a battery cell 110 is inserted between two adjacent cooling plates 1; however, this variation is not limited to this, and the number of battery cells can be two or more.

[0084] 2-5. Variation 5 In the above embodiment, as an example, between two adjacent cooling plates 1, a first recess 15a of one cooling plate 1 is in close contact with the end portion of the first connector 13 of the other cooling plate 1. Similarly, a second recess 16a of one cooling plate 1 is in close contact with the end portion of the second connector 14 of the other cooling plate 1. However, this variation is not limited to this. For example, a sealing member (such as an O-ring) may be inserted between the first recess 15a of one cooling plate 1 and the end portion of the first connector 13 of the other cooling plate 1. Similarly, a sealing member may be inserted between the second recess 16a of one cooling plate 1 and the end portion of the second connector 14 of the other cooling plate 1.

[0085] 3. Appendix The following solutions are derived from the above embodiments and variations.

[0086] (Appendix 1) As a preferred example of this disclosure, a flow channel member according to claim 1 is bonded to a plate member and defines a flow channel through which a cooling medium flows. The flow channel member includes: a plate portion made of an elastic material and having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface; a first connector protruding from the first surface; and a second connector protruding from the first surface. The first connector includes an inlet for allowing the cooling medium to flow into the flow channel, the inlet being disposed at an end portion of the first connector. The second connector includes an outlet for allowing the cooling medium to flow out of the flow channel, the outlet being disposed at an end portion of the second connector. The second surface has: a first opening communicating with the inlet; and a second opening communicating with the outlet.

[0087] In this design, when fabricating a cooling plate obtained by bonding a plate component to a flow channel component, the arrangement of the cooling plate along its thickness direction allows the battery cell to be mounted between two adjacent cooling plates. Both a first connector and a second connector protrude from a first surface of the plate portion, which has a first opening and a second opening disposed on a second surface. This configuration between the two adjacent cooling plates allows communication between the inlet of one cooling plate and the first opening of the other, and between the outlet of one cooling plate and the second opening of the other. Therefore, no separate component is needed to distribute the cooling medium to and recover the cooling medium from the cooling plates. The plate portion, made of an elastic material, absorbs volume changes caused by the expansion and contraction resulting from the heat generated by the battery cell. Therefore, the overall volume change of the battery module can be minimized, and close contact between the cooling plate and the battery cell can be maintained. Thus, the battery cell can be cooled efficiently and at low cost.

[0088] (Appendix 2) In embodiment 2, a preferred example of embodiment 1, the second surface includes: a first recess shaped to fit an end portion of the first connector; and a second recess shaped to fit an end portion of the second connector. The first recess has a first opening. The second recess has a second opening. In this embodiment, between two adjacent cooling plates, the end portion of the first connector of one cooling plate is fitted into the first recess of the other cooling plate. This configuration allows communication between the inlet of one cooling plate and the first opening of the other cooling plate. Similarly, between two adjacent cooling plates, the end portion of the second connector of one cooling plate is fitted into the second recess of the other cooling plate. This configuration allows communication between the outlet of one cooling plate and the second opening of the other cooling plate.

[0089] (Appendix 3) As a preferred example of this disclosure, the cooling plate according to claim 3 includes: a first member comprising a plate portion made of an elastic material; and a flat second member bonded to a surface of the plate portion. A flow channel through which a cooling medium flows is defined between the plate portion and the second plate member. The plate portion has: a first surface bonded to the second member; and a second surface opposite to the first surface. The first member includes: a first connector protruding from the first surface; and a second connector protruding from the first surface. The first connector includes an inlet for allowing the cooling medium to flow into the flow channel, the inlet being disposed at an end portion of the first connector. The second connector includes an outlet for allowing the cooling medium to flow out of the flow channel, the outlet being disposed at an end portion of the second connector. The second surface has: a first opening communicating with the inlet; and a second opening communicating with the outlet.

[0090] In this design, a battery cell can be mounted between two adjacent cooling plates by arranging cooling plates along the thickness direction. Both a first connector and a second connector protrude from a first surface of the plate portion, which has a first opening and a second opening disposed in a second surface. This configuration allows communication between the inlet of one cooling plate and the first opening of the other, and between the outlet of one cooling plate and the second opening of the other. Therefore, no separate component is needed to distribute and recover the cooling medium from the cooling plates. The plate portion, made of an elastic material, absorbs volume changes caused by the expansion and contraction resulting from the heat generated by the battery cell. This minimizes the overall volume change of the battery module and maintains close contact between the cooling plates and the battery cell. Consequently, the battery cell can be cooled efficiently and at low cost.

[0091] (Appendix 4) In Scheme 4, which is a preferred example of Scheme 3, the second component is made of metal. Compared with the second component made of resin, this scheme improves the cooling efficiency of the battery cell cooled by the cooling plate.

[0092] (Appendix 5) In embodiment 5, which is a preferred example of embodiment 3 or 4, the second surface includes: a first recess shaped to fit an end portion of the first connector; and a second recess shaped to fit an end portion of the second connector. The first recess has a first opening. The second recess has a second opening. In this embodiment, between two adjacent cooling plates, the end portion of the first connector of one cooling plate is fitted into the first recess of the other cooling plate. This configuration allows communication between the inlet of one cooling plate and the first opening of the other cooling plate. Similarly, between two adjacent cooling plates, the end portion of the second connector of one cooling plate is fitted into the second recess of the other cooling plate. This configuration allows communication between the outlet of one cooling plate and the second opening of the other cooling plate.

[0093] (Appendix 6) In embodiment 6, which is a preferred example of any one of embodiments 3 to 5, the first surface includes a recess defining a flow channel. Compared to the case where the recess defining the flow channel is arranged in the second member, this embodiment allows for easier fabrication of the cooling plate.

[0094] (Appendix 7) In embodiment 7, which is a preferred example of any of embodiments 4 to 6, the first connector includes a first conduit communicating with an inlet and a first opening, and the second connector includes a second conduit communicating with an outlet and a second opening. In this embodiment, when the first conduits of the respective cooling plates are interconnected, a linear flow channel is defined for distributing the cooling medium to the flow channel of each cooling plate. Similarly, when the second conduits of the respective cooling plates are interconnected, a linear flow channel is defined that allows the cooling medium to be recovered from the flow channel of each cooling plate. The arrangement of the linear flow channels achieves a uniform flow rate of the cooling medium within the flow channel of each cooling plate, thereby effectively cooling the battery cell.

[0095] (Appendix 8) In embodiment 8, which is a preferred example of embodiment 7, the recess on its surface includes: a first inlet port communicating with the first conduit and the flow channel, and a second inlet port communicating with the second conduit and the flow channel. In this embodiment, by using a relatively simple configuration, the cooling medium enters the flow channel from the first conduit via the first inlet port and exits from the flow channel to the second conduit via the second inlet port.

[0096] (Appendix 9) In embodiment 9, which is a preferred example of embodiment 8, the flow channel is shaped to have an angled or curved portion extending from the first inlet port toward the second inlet port. In this embodiment, compared to a linear flow channel extending straight from the first inlet port to the second inlet port, it contributes to a more uniform temperature distribution on the cooling plate.

[0097] (Appendix 10) In embodiment 10, which is a preferred example of any of embodiments 4 to 9, the plate portion is quadrilateral in plan view, and the first connector and the second connector are arranged at intervals along one side of the plate portion. In this embodiment, the wire passes between the first connector and the second connector to facilitate easy travel to the battery cell.

[0098] (Appendix 11) In embodiment 11, which is a preferred example of any one of embodiments 3 to 10, the second surface includes a plurality of protrusions. In this embodiment, a gap can be defined between the second surface and the battery cell. Therefore, the battery cell can be cooled by a cooling medium and by convection of the flow of the medium within the gap. Furthermore, when the protrusions are elastic, the plate portion absorbs the volume changes caused by the expansion and contraction resulting from the heat generated by the battery cell. Therefore, the overall volume change of the battery module can be minimized.

[0099] (Appendix 12) A cooling structure according to claim 12, as a preferred example of this disclosure, includes a plurality of cooling plates arranged along the thickness direction. Each of the plurality of cooling plates includes: a first member comprising a plate portion made of an elastic material; and a flat second member bonded to a surface of the plate portion. A flow channel through which a cooling medium flows is defined between the plate portion and the second plate member. The plate portion has: a first surface bonded to the second member; and a second surface opposite to the first surface. The first member includes: a first connector protruding from the first surface; and a second connector protruding from the first surface. The first connector includes an inlet for allowing the cooling medium to flow into the flow channel, the inlet being disposed at an end portion of the first connector. The second connector includes an outlet for allowing the cooling medium to flow out of the flow channel, the outlet being disposed at an end portion of the second connector. The second surface has: a first opening communicating with the inlet; and a second opening communicating with the outlet. Between two adjacent cooling plates, the inlet of one cooling plate communicates with the first opening of the other cooling plate, and the outlet of one cooling plate communicates with the second opening of the other cooling plate.

[0100] In this design, each battery cell can be mounted between two adjacent cooling plates. A first connector and a second connector both protrude from a first surface of a plate portion, which has a first opening and a second opening disposed in a second surface. This configuration allows communication between the inlet of one cooling plate and the first opening of the other, and between the outlet of one cooling plate and the second opening of the other. Therefore, no separate component is needed to distribute and recover the cooling medium from the cooling plates. The plate portion, made of an elastic material, absorbs volume changes caused by the expansion and contraction resulting from the heat generated by the battery cell. This minimizes the overall volume change of the battery module and maintains close contact between the cooling plate and the battery cell. Consequently, the battery cell can be cooled efficiently and at low cost.

[0101] (Appendix 13) A battery module according to claim 13, as a preferred example of this disclosure, includes: a plurality of battery cells; and a cooling structure comprising a plurality of cooling plates arranged along a thickness direction. Each of the plurality of cooling plates includes: a first member comprising a plate portion made of an elastic material; and a flat second member bonded to a surface of the plate portion. A flow channel through which a cooling medium flows is defined between the plate portion and the second plate member. The plate portion has: a first surface bonded to the second member; and a second surface opposite to the first surface. The first member includes: a first connector projecting from the first surface; and a second connector projecting from the first surface. The first connector includes an inlet for allowing the cooling medium to flow into the flow channel, the inlet being disposed at an end portion of the first connector. The second connector includes an outlet for allowing the cooling medium to flow out of the flow channel, the outlet being disposed at an end portion of the second connector. The second surface has: a first opening communicating with the inlet; and a second opening communicating with the outlet. Between two adjacent cooling plates, the inlet of one cooling plate communicates with the first opening of the other cooling plate, and the outlet of one cooling plate communicates with the second opening of the other cooling plate.

[0102] In this design, both the first and second connectors protrude from a first surface of the plate portion, which has a first opening and a second opening disposed on a second surface. This configuration allows communication between the inlet of one cooling plate and the first opening of the other, and between the outlet of one cooling plate and the second opening of the other, between two adjacent cooling plates. Therefore, no separate component is needed to distribute and recover the cooling medium from the cooling plates. The plate portion, made of an elastic material, absorbs volume changes caused by the expansion and contraction resulting from the heat generated by the battery cells. This minimizes the overall volume change of the battery module and maintains close contact between the cooling plates and the battery cells. Consequently, the battery cells can be cooled efficiently and at low cost.

[0103] (Appendix 14) In embodiment 14, which is a preferred example of embodiment 15, one or both of the first and second components are quadrilaterals in a plan view. The first and second connectors are arranged at intervals along one side of the quadrilateral. Each of the plurality of battery cells is connected to a wire that passes between the first and second connectors. In this embodiment, the wire can be easily traveled.

[0104] (Appendix 15) As a preferred example of this disclosure, the method according to claim 15 is a method for manufacturing a cooling plate, the cooling plate comprising a plurality of cooling plates arranged along a thickness direction. The method includes: a preparation step in which a plurality of cooling plates are prepared; and a stacking step in which the plurality of cooling plates are stacked. Each of the plurality of cooling plates includes: a first member comprising a plate portion made of an elastic material; and a flat second member bonded to a surface of the plate portion. A flow channel through which a cooling medium flows is defined between the plate portion and the second plate member. The plate portion has: a first surface bonded to the second member; and a second surface opposite to the first surface. The first member includes: a first connector protruding from the first surface; and a second connector protruding from the first surface. The first connector includes an inlet for allowing the cooling medium to flow into the flow channel, the inlet being disposed at an end portion of the first connector. The second connector includes an outlet for allowing the cooling medium to flow out of the flow channel, the outlet being disposed at an end portion of the second connector. The second surface has: a first opening communicating with the inlet; and a second opening communicating with the outlet. In the stacking step, between two adjacent cooling plates, the inlet of one cooling plate communicates with the first opening of the other cooling plate, while the outlet of one cooling plate communicates with the second opening of the other cooling plate.

[0105] In this design, both the first and second connectors protrude from a first surface of the plate portion, which has a first opening and a second opening disposed in a second surface. Between two adjacent cooling plates, this configuration allows communication between the inlet of one cooling plate and the first opening of the other, and between the outlet of one cooling plate and the second opening of the other. Therefore, no separate component is needed to distribute the cooling medium to and recover the cooling medium from the cooling plates. The plate portion, made of an elastic material, absorbs volume changes caused by the expansion and contraction resulting from the heat generated by the battery cells. Therefore, the overall volume change of the battery module can be minimized, and close contact between the cooling plates and the battery cells can be maintained. Thus, a cooling structure is obtained that effectively cools the battery cells at low cost.

[0106] (Appendix 16) As a preferred example of this disclosure, the method according to claim 16 is a method for manufacturing a battery module, the battery module comprising: a plurality of battery cells; and a cooling structure comprising a plurality of cooling plates arranged along a thickness direction. The method includes: a preparation step in which the cooling structure is prepared; and an installation step in which each of the plurality of battery cells is installed between adjacent cooling plates of the plurality of cooling plates. Each of the plurality of cooling plates includes: a first member comprising a plate portion made of an elastic material; and a flat second member bonded to a surface of the plate portion. A flow channel through which a cooling medium flows is defined between the plate portion and the second plate member. The plate portion has: a first surface bonded to the second member; and a second surface opposite to the first surface. The first member includes: a first connector protruding from the first surface; and a second connector protruding from the first surface. The first connector includes an inlet for allowing the cooling medium to flow into the flow channel, the inlet being disposed at an end portion of the first connector. The second connector includes an outlet for allowing the cooling medium to flow out of the flow channel, the outlet being disposed at an end portion of the second connector. The second surface has: a first opening communicating with an inlet; and a second opening communicating with an outlet. Between two adjacent cooling plates, the inlet of one cooling plate communicates with the first opening of the other cooling plate, while the outlet of one cooling plate communicates with the second opening of the other cooling plate.

[0107] In this design, both the first and second connectors protrude from a first surface of the plate portion, which has a first opening and a second opening disposed in a second surface. Between two adjacent cooling plates, this configuration allows communication between the inlet of one cooling plate and the first opening of the other, and between the outlet of one cooling plate and the second opening of the other. Therefore, no separate component is needed to distribute the cooling medium to and recover the cooling medium from the cooling plates. The plate portion, made of an elastic material, absorbs volume changes caused by the expansion and contraction resulting from the heat generated by the battery cells. Therefore, the overall volume change of the battery module can be minimized, and a tight contact between the cooling plates and the battery cells can be maintained. Thus, a battery module is obtained that effectively cools the battery cells at low cost.

[0108] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures 1: Cooling plate; 1-1, 1-2, 1-3, 1-4, 1-5, 1-6, 1-7, 1-8, 1-9 and 1-10: Cooling plates; 10: First component (flow channel component); 11: Plate portion; 12: Recess; 13: First connector; 14: Second connector; 15: Protrusion; 15a: First recess; 16: Protrusion; 16a: Second recess; 17: Protrusion; 20: Second component (plate component); 21, 22: Openings; 100: Battery module; 110: Battery cell; 110-1, 110-2, 110-3, 110-4, 110-5, 110-6, 110-7, 1 10-8 and 110-9: Battery cell; 111: Wire; 120: Cooling structure; 121: Plug; 130: Restrictor; 131, 132: Restrictor plate; 133: Bolt; 134: Nut; F1: First surface; F2: Second surface; R: Flow channel; Ra, Rb: Flow channel; S1: Preparation step; S2: Stacking step; S3: Mounting step; S4: Attaching step; S10: Preparation step; Sa: First conduit; Sa1: Inlet; Sa2: First inlet port; Sa3: First opening; Sb: Second conduit; Sb1: Outlet; Sb2: Second inlet port; Sb3: Second opening.

Claims

1. A flow channel member, said flow channel member being bonded to a plate member and defining a flow channel through which a cooling medium flows, said flow channel member comprising: The plate portion, said plate portion being made of an elastic material and having: First surface; as well as The second surface opposite to the first surface; A first connector protruding from the first surface; as well as The second connector protrudes from the first surface. in, The first connector includes an inlet for allowing the cooling medium to flow into the flow channel, the inlet being disposed at an end portion of the first connector. The second connector includes an outlet for allowing the cooling medium to flow out of the flow channel, the outlet being disposed at an end portion of the second connector. The second surface has: A first opening communicating with the inlet; as well as A second opening that communicates with the outlet.

2. The flow channel component according to claim 1, wherein, The second surface includes: A first recess, the first recess being shaped to fit an end portion of the first connector; and The second recess is shaped to fit the end portion of the second connector. The first recess has the first opening, and The second recess has the second opening.

3. A cooling plate, the cooling plate comprising: A first component, the first component comprising a plate portion made of an elastic material; as well as A flat second component, said flat second component being bonded to one surface of the plate portion. in, A flow channel through which cooling medium flows is defined between the plate portion and the second plate member. The plate portion has: Adhesive to the first surface of the second component; and The second surface opposite to the first surface, The first component includes: A first connector protruding from the first surface; and The second connector protrudes from the first surface. The first connector includes an inlet for allowing the cooling medium to flow into the flow channel, the inlet being disposed at an end portion of the first connector. The second connector includes an outlet for allowing the cooling medium to flow out of the flow channel, the outlet being disposed at an end portion of the second connector. The second surface has: A first opening communicating with the inlet; and A second opening that communicates with the outlet.

4. The cooling plate according to claim 3, in, The second component is made of metal.

5. The cooling plate according to claim 3, wherein, The second surface includes: A first recess, the first recess being shaped to fit an end portion of the first connector; and The second recess is shaped to fit the end portion of the second connector. The first recess has the first opening, and The second recess has the second opening.

6. The cooling plate according to any one of claims 3 to 5, in, The first surface includes a recess that defines the flow channel.

7. The cooling plate according to claim 6, wherein, The first connector includes a first conduit communicating with the inlet and the first opening, and The second connector includes a second conduit communicating with the outlet and the second opening.

8. The cooling plate according to claim 7, wherein, The recess located on the surface of the cooling plate includes: A first inlet port communicating with the first conduit and the flow channel; and A second inlet port that communicates with the second conduit and the flow channel.

9. The cooling plate according to claim 8, in, The flow channel is shaped to have an angled or curved portion extending from the first inlet port toward the second inlet port.

10. The cooling plate according to claim 4, wherein, The plate portion is quadrilateral in plan view, and The first connector and the second connector are arranged at intervals along one side of the plate portion.

11. The cooling plate according to claim 4, in, The second surface includes a plurality of protrusions.

12. A cooling structure, the cooling structure comprising: Multiple cooling plates arranged along the thickness direction, in, Each of the plurality of cooling plates includes: A first component, the first component comprising a plate portion made of an elastic material; and A flat second component, said flat second component being bonded to one surface of the plate portion. A flow channel through which cooling medium flows is defined between the plate portion and the second plate member. The plate portion has: Adhesive to the first surface of the second component; and The second surface opposite to the first surface, The first component includes: A first connector protruding from the first surface; and The second connector protrudes from the first surface. The first connector includes an inlet for allowing the cooling medium to flow into the flow channel, the inlet being disposed at an end portion of the first connector. The second connector includes an outlet for allowing the cooling medium to flow out of the flow channel, the outlet being disposed at an end portion of the second connector. The second surface has: A first opening communicating with the inlet; and A second opening communicating with the outlet, and Between two adjacent cooling plates, the inlet of one cooling plate communicates with the first opening of the other cooling plate, and the outlet of one cooling plate communicates with the second opening of the other cooling plate.

13. A battery module, the battery module comprising: Multiple battery cells, and A cooling structure comprising a plurality of cooling plates arranged along the thickness direction. in, Each of the plurality of cooling plates includes: A first component, the first component comprising a plate portion made of an elastic material; and A flat second component, said flat second component being bonded to one surface of the plate portion. A flow channel through which cooling medium flows is defined between the plate portion and the second plate member. The plate portion has: Adhesive to the first surface of the second component; and The second surface opposite to the first surface, The first component includes: A first connector protruding from the first surface; and The second connector protrudes from the first surface. The first connector includes an inlet for allowing the cooling medium to flow into the flow channel, the inlet being disposed at an end portion of the first connector. The second connector includes an outlet for allowing the cooling medium to flow out of the flow channel, the outlet being disposed at an end portion of the second connector. The second surface has: A first opening communicating with the inlet; and A second opening communicating with the outlet, and Between two adjacent cooling plates, the inlet of one cooling plate communicates with the first opening of the other cooling plate, and the outlet of one cooling plate communicates with the second opening of the other cooling plate.

14. The battery module according to claim 13, wherein, One or both of the first and second components are quadrilaterals in the plan view. The first connector and the second connector are arranged at intervals along one side of the quadrilateral, and Each of the plurality of battery cells is connected to a wire that passes between the first connector and the second connector.

15. A method for manufacturing a cooling plate, the cooling plate comprising a plurality of cooling plates arranged along a thickness direction, the method comprising: In the preparation step, the plurality of cooling plates are prepared; as well as The stacking step involves stacking the plurality of cooling plates. in, Each of the plurality of cooling plates includes: A first component, the first component comprising a plate portion made of an elastic material; and A flat second component, said flat second component being bonded to one surface of the plate portion. A flow channel through which cooling medium flows is defined between the plate portion and the second plate member. The plate portion has: Adhesive to the first surface of the second component; and The second surface opposite to the first surface, The first component includes: A first connector protruding from the first surface; and The second connector protrudes from the first surface. The first connector includes an inlet for allowing the cooling medium to flow into the flow channel, the inlet being disposed at an end portion of the first connector. The second connector includes an outlet for allowing the cooling medium to flow out of the flow channel, the outlet being disposed at an end portion of the second connector. The second surface has: A first opening communicating with the inlet; and A second opening communicating with the outlet, and In the stacking step, between two adjacent cooling plates, the inlet of one cooling plate communicates with the first opening of the other cooling plate, and the outlet of one cooling plate communicates with the second opening of the other cooling plate.

16. A method for manufacturing a battery module, the battery module comprising: Multiple battery cells; and a cooling structure comprising a plurality of cooling plates arranged along the thickness direction, the method comprising: Preparation steps, wherein the cooling structure is prepared; and In the installation step, each of the plurality of battery cells is installed between adjacent cooling plates of the plurality of cooling plates. in, Each of the plurality of cooling plates includes: A first component, the first component comprising a plate portion made of an elastic material; and A flat second component, said flat second component being bonded to one surface of the plate portion. A flow channel through which cooling medium flows is defined between the plate portion and the second plate member. The plate portion has: Adhesive to the first surface of the second component; and The second surface opposite to the first surface, The first component includes: A first connector protruding from the first surface; and The second connector protrudes from the first surface. The first connector includes an inlet for allowing the cooling medium to flow into the flow channel, the inlet being disposed at an end portion of the first connector. The second connector includes an outlet for allowing the cooling medium to flow out of the flow channel, the outlet being disposed at an end portion of the second connector. The second surface has: A first opening communicating with the inlet; and A second opening communicating with the outlet, and Between two adjacent cooling plates, the inlet of one cooling plate communicates with the first opening of the other cooling plate, and the outlet of one cooling plate communicates with the second opening of the other cooling plate.

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