Energy storage module

Abstract

The energy storage module of the present invention is characterized by comprising: a plurality of energy storage devices (10); a retaining member (30) which holds the plurality of energy storage devices (10); and a coolant (50) in which the plurality of energy storage devices (10) are immersed in the coolant (50) within the retaining member (30).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an energy storage module that houses multiple energy storage devices. Background Technology

[0002] Traditionally, energy storage modules have achieved specified capacity and voltage by housing multiple energy storage devices and connecting them in parallel or series. Other energy storage devices include secondary batteries such as lithium-ion batteries and capacitors.

[0003] In this energy storage module, the energy storage device generates heat due to charging and discharging, and therefore needs to be cooled. For example, in a battery pack that uses batteries as energy storage devices and has an energy storage module that houses multiple batteries, liquid immersion cooling using fluids is known as a cooling method (see Patent Document 1).

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 6256439 Summary of the Invention

[0007] Therefore, it is required that the reliability of the energy storage module be further improved while making the energy storage module more high-performance.

[0008] The energy storage module, as a technical solution disclosed herein, is characterized by comprising: a plurality of energy storage devices; a retaining member that holds the plurality of energy storage devices; and a coolant in which the plurality of energy storage devices are immersed.

[0009] According to this disclosure, the reliability of the energy storage module is improved. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a battery pack, which is an example of an energy storage module involved in the implementation method.

[0011] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack, which is an example of an energy storage module involved in the implementation method.

[0012] Figure 3 This is an axial sectional view of an energy storage device as an example of an implementation.

[0013] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 The AA-line sectional view is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of the battery pack.

[0014] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 The BB line cross-sectional view is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of the battery pack.

[0015] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 The BB line cross-sectional view is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of the battery pack.

[0016] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 The CC-line sectional view is a magnified representation of the vicinity of the connection.

[0017] Figure 8 This is another example of a battery pack used as an example of an energy storage module in an implementation method. Figure 7 The corresponding diagram.

[0018] Figure 9 This is another example of a battery pack used as an example of an energy storage module in an implementation method. Figure 6 The corresponding diagram. Detailed Implementation

[0019] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, the following embodiments are not limited to the present disclosure, and structures selectively combined from multiple examples are also included in the present disclosure. Additionally, in the present disclosure, a battery pack housing multiple batteries within a casing is used as an example of an energy storage module.

[0020] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The structure of battery pack 1 will be explained. Figure 1 This is a 3D view of battery pack 1. Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of battery pack 1. Furthermore, in Figure 1 For ease of explanation, the illustration of the top cover 46 of the housing 40 is omitted.

[0021] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the battery pack 1 includes multiple energy storage devices 10, a retaining member 30 for holding the multiple energy storage devices 10, and a housing 40 for housing the retaining member 30. The housing 40 has a coolant 50 for insulation (see reference). Figure 4 The housing 40 has an inlet 47 for external inflow and an outlet 48 for external outflow of coolant 50. Thus, coolant 50 is stored inside the housing 40, and at least a portion of the energy storage device 10 is immersed in the coolant 50. In other words, coolant 50 is stored in at least a portion of the gaps inside the housing 40 (the gaps between the energy storage devices 10 and between the retainer 30 and the housing 40).

[0022] For ease of explanation, the following uses terms indicating front-back, up-down, and left-right directions to describe the various components of the retainer 30 and housing 40. The front-back direction refers to the direction in which the retainer 30 and housing 40 extend (first direction). Furthermore, the inlet 47 side of the housing 40 is designated as "front," and the outlet 48 side of the housing 40 is designated as "rear." The up-down direction refers to the direction along the vertical direction. The left-right direction refers to the direction orthogonal to the front-back direction (first direction) when viewing the battery pack 1 from above (second direction). Additionally, unless otherwise specified, left and right refer to left and right when viewing the battery pack 1 from the front.

[0023] Battery pack 1 can be used as a power source for motor-driven electric devices such as electric cars, power tools, electric-assisted bicycles, electric motorcycles, electric wheelchairs, electric tricycles, and electric mobility scooters. However, the application of battery pack 1 is not specific, and it can also be used as a power source for electrical devices other than electric devices, such as cleaners, cordless phones, lighting fixtures, digital cameras, and camcorders used indoors and outdoors.

[0024] The energy storage device 10 can be either a secondary battery using an aqueous electrolyte or a secondary battery using a non-aqueous electrolyte. The energy storage device 10 of this disclosure can be a cylindrical battery with a cylindrical (e.g., a bottomed cylindrical) outer casing, or a square battery with a square outer casing. Alternatively, the energy storage device 10 of this disclosure can also be a capacitor capable of repeated charging and discharging. Hereinafter, the description will focus on the case where the energy storage device 10 is a cylindrical battery. In this embodiment, 160 energy storage devices 10 are arranged inside the holding member 30.

[0025] The retainer 30 is approximately cuboid in shape and is slightly smaller than the housing 40. The retainer 30 is disposed, for example, approximately in the center of the interior of the housing 40. This creates a gap between the retainer 30 and the housing 40, in which coolant 50 is stored. Alternatively, the retainer 30 may be disposed offset to one side within the housing 40. Furthermore, in cases of abnormal overheating of the energy storage device 10, gas released from the energy storage device 10 flows through this gap. The retainer 30 is secured to the housing 40 by threaded connections (not shown) or the like.

[0026] The retainer 30 has an upper retainer 31 that houses and retains the upper side (one end) of the energy storage device 10 and a lower retainer 32 that retains the lower side (the other end) of the energy storage device 10. The upper retainer 31 and the lower retainer 32 are connected to each other by a threaded part (not shown). In addition, the upper retainer 31 and the lower retainer 32 each have a battery holding part 33 (see reference). Figure 4 ), 33, 34, the battery holding parts 33, 34 are receiving parts that cover and hold the outer peripheral surface of the energy storage device 10.

[0027] The battery holding portions 33 and 34 are circular when viewed from above, and concave (cylindrical concave) when viewed from the front-back and left-right directions. Furthermore, circular through holes 35 and 36 are respectively provided at the top of the battery holding portion 33 and the bottom of the battery holding portion 34. The through holes 35 and 36 are circular holes with an inner diameter smaller than the circular shape of the battery holding portions 33 and 34 when viewed from above. Additionally, when viewed from above, the center of the battery holding portions 33 and 34 coincides with the center of the through holes 35 and 36. However, these centers can also be staggered.

[0028] A first opening 37 is provided on the front surface 30a (first surface) of the retainer 30 to allow coolant 50 to flow into the interior of the retainer 30. The first opening 37 is provided facing the inflow portion 47 provided on the housing 40 and is located approximately at the center of the front surface 30a. Furthermore, the first opening 37 is approximately circular. However, the shape of the first opening 37 is not limited to this; for example, it may also have a approximately rectangular shape. The first opening 37 is connected to the inflow portion 47 via a connecting portion 70, as will be described later. Thus, coolant 50 flowing in from the inflow portion 47 flows directly into the interior of the retainer 30 via the first opening 37.

[0029] Additionally, a second opening 38 is provided on the rear surface 30b (second surface) of the retainer 30, communicating with the interior of the housing 40. The second opening 38 allows the coolant 50 inside the retainer 30 to flow out to the outside of the retainer 30. The second opening 38 has a generally rectangular shape in plan view and is formed on both ends of the rear surface 30b of the retainer 30 in the left-right direction, as will be described in detail later. A portion of the coolant 50 flowing into the interior of the retainer 30 flows through the second opening 38 to the outflow portion 48 provided in the housing 40. Furthermore, a portion of the coolant 50 flowing into the interior of the retainer 30 flows through the second opening 38 to the peripheral receiving chamber 49 (see reference 49) formed between the retainer 30 and the housing 40. Figure 6 ) circulation.

[0030] The retainer 30 can be made of, for example, highly thermally conductive PPS (polyphenylene sulfide) resin, resin containing heat-dissipating fillers, or thermosetting resin capable of injection molding. More specifically, the retainer 30 can be made of phenolic resin, unsaturated polyester, or unsaturated polyester mixed with a heat-absorbing agent. Alternatively, the retainer 30 can also be made of inorganic minerals such as mica, or a material in which inorganic minerals such as mica are mixed into a resin material.

[0031] An upper current collector plate 60 is disposed on the upper side of the retainer 30, and a lower current collector plate 61 is disposed on the lower side of the retainer 30. The upper current collector plate 60 and the lower current collector plate 61 are each made of metal and are fixed by inserting into protrusions provided in the upper retainer 31 and the lower retainer 32, respectively. The upper current collector plate 60 and the lower current collector plate 61 are connected by leads 62 and 63 (see reference). Figure 4 The energy storage device 10 is electrically connected to the energy storage device 10. In this embodiment, the energy storage device 10 uses a sealing body 16 (see reference 16) as the positive terminal. Figure 3 The upper current collector 60 is positioned on the lower side, as detailed later. Thus, the upper current collector 60 becomes the negative terminal, and the lower current collector 61 becomes the positive terminal. In the battery pack 1, the parallel connections of multiple energy storage devices connected in parallel via the current collectors are connected in series with each other in the front-to-back direction. In the energy storage module of this disclosure, the direction of the series connection is not limited to this direction. Alternatively, the upper current collector 60 and the lower current collector 61 may each have a terminal extending from one end of each current collector (…). Figure 1 The tongue portions (one end in the left-right direction) extend along the side of the retainer, and these tongue portions are connected to each other. At this time, the tongue portions can be connected to each other or connected via other conductive members. Alternatively, the upper current collector 60 and the lower current collector 61, which are disposed on opposite sides of the retainer, can be concentrated on one side of the retainer.

[0032] The housing 40, like the retainer 30, has a generally rectangular shape and houses the retainer 30. The housing 40 is made of, for example, a metallic material including aluminum or a resin material. The housing 40 includes: a main wall 41 (bottom) forming the lower surface of the housing 40 and extending in the front-rear direction; side walls 42, 43, 44, and 45 located at the ends of the main wall 41, forming the front surface 40a, rear surface 40b, right surface, and left surface of the housing 40, respectively; and a top cover 46 forming the upper surface of the housing 40. The main wall 41 has a rectangular shape, and the side walls (wall portions) 42, 43, 44, and 45 are formed along the edges of the four sides of the main wall 41. Furthermore, the housing 40 may also have an exhaust port (not shown) for discharging gas released from the energy storage device 10 to the outside of the housing 40. Additionally, ribs 51 protruding perpendicularly to the inner surface of the main wall 41 of the housing 40 may be formed independently relative to the side walls 42-45. By mounting and fixing the retainer 30 on the rib 51, a gap is formed between the lower part of the retainer 30 and the main wall 41, and coolant 50 can also be filled in this gap. Furthermore, if an exhaust valve is formed on the sealing plate of the energy storage device 10, exhaust can be efficiently released from the energy storage device 10 through the exhaust valve. Additionally, if a lower current collector plate 61 is disposed on the bottom surface of the lower retainer 32, the lower current collector plate 61 can easily come into contact with the coolant 50, and the energy storage device 10 can also be cooled via the lower current collector plate 61.

[0033] The housing 40 has an inlet portion 47 on its front surface 40a (side wall 42) for allowing coolant 50 to flow in from the outside, and an outlet portion 48 on its rear surface 40b (side wall 43) for allowing coolant 50 to flow out from the outside. In this embodiment, the housing 40 has one inlet portion 47 and one outlet portion 48. The inlet portion 47 is located approximately at the center of the front surface 40a of the housing 40, and the outlet portion 48 is located approximately below the center of the rear surface 40b of the housing 40. The inlet portion 47 and the outlet portion 48 are both approximately circular in shape. In addition, the rear surface 40b of the housing 40 may also have a through hole (not shown) for allowing wiring devices or the like connected to the energy storage device 10 or equipment inside the housing 40 to pass through. In the energy storage module disclosed herein, the housing 40 may not have an outlet portion 48. The inlet portion 47 may also be formed in a location other than the side wall of the housing 40.

[0034] An inflow-side pipe (not shown) is connected to the inflow section 47 for allowing coolant 50 to flow into the inflow section 47, and an outflow-side pipe (not shown) is connected to the outflow section 48 for allowing coolant 50 to flow out of the outflow section 48. Furthermore, the inflow-side pipe and the outflow-side pipe form a circulation path. The coolant 50 circulates within the housing 40 by using a pump device (not shown) or the like. Additionally, a heat exchanger such as heat exchange fins can be installed in this circulation path. However, in the energy storage module of this disclosure, the coolant 50 may not circulate through the aforementioned circulation path.

[0035] The coolant 50 has electrical insulation properties. This prevents leakage of current from multiple energy storage devices 10 via the coolant 50. Examples of coolants 50 include insulating oil, transformer oil, silicone oil, and fluorine-based inert liquids such as hydrofluoroether.

[0036] Next, refer to Figure 3 The energy storage device 10 constituting the battery pack 1 will be described. Figure 3 This is an axial (vertical) sectional view of the energy storage device 10. Additionally, in Figure 3 The diagram shows the sealing body 16 in the upper position.

[0037] As described above, as an example, the energy storage device 10 is a cylindrical battery. The energy storage device 10 includes: an electrode body 14 formed by winding a strip-shaped positive electrode 11 and a strip-shaped negative electrode 12 with a strip-shaped separator 13 in between; a non-aqueous electrolyte (not shown); an outer can 15 that houses the electrode body 14 and the non-aqueous electrolyte and has a bottomed cylindrical shape; and a sealing body 16 that blocks the opening 15d of the outer can 15.

[0038] In addition, the energy storage device 10 also includes insulating plates 18 and 19 respectively disposed above and below the electrode body 14. Figure 3 In the example shown, the positive lead 20, which is connected to the positive electrode 11, extends towards the sealing body 16 through the through-hole of the insulating plate 18, and the negative lead 21, which is connected to the negative electrode 12, extends towards the bottom 15a of the outer packaging can 15 through the outer side of the insulating plate 19. The positive lead 20 is connected to the surface of the electrode body 14 of the sealing body 16 by welding or the like, making the sealing body 16 the positive terminal. The negative lead 21 is connected to the inner surface of the bottom 15a of the outer packaging can 15 by welding or the like, making the outer packaging can 15 the negative terminal.

[0039] The outer can 15 is a bottomed cylindrical container with an opening on one axial side. The outer can 15 is made of a metallic material, for example, including iron, aluminum, etc. The outer can 15 has a bottom 15a and a side portion 15b that forms the side of the energy storage device 10. The side portion 15b is the part of the outer can 15 other than the bottom 15a, and includes the groove portion 15c and the opening portion 15d, which will be described later.

[0040] The groove portion 15c is a portion of the side portion 15b that is recessed radially inward, and is arranged in a ring shape along the circumference of the outer can 15. The groove portion 15c supports the sealing body 16. The groove portion 15c can be formed, for example, by spinning a portion of the side portion 15b radially inward to make it recessed into a ring shape.

[0041] The opening 15d is the area in the side portion 15b that is closer to the opening end than the groove portion 15c, and it forms the opening of the outer can 15. When the sealing body 16 is pressed and fixed to the outer can 15, the opening 15d is bent radially inward.

[0042] exist Figure 3 In the example shown, the sealing body 16 is composed of a single plate-shaped member. However, the structure of the sealing body 16 is not limited to this. For example, the sealing body 16 may also be composed of multiple members. Additionally, the sealing body 16 may also have a cover that covers the top surface of the energy storage device 10.

[0043] A gasket 17 is disposed between the outer peripheral surface of the sealing body 16 and the inner peripheral surface of the opening of the outer can 15. The gasket 17 is a flexible insulating member that electrically insulates the sealing body 16, which is the positive terminal, from the outer can 15, which is the negative terminal, and ensures the airtightness of the interior of the outer can 15 by being compressed in the vertical direction. The material of the gasket 17 is not particularly limited as long as it is a compressible insulating material, such as polypropylene (PP), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyethylene (PE), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), perfluoroalkoxyalkane (PFA), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyamide (PA), etc.

[0044] exist Figure 3In the example shown, the gasket 17 is disposed between the open end of the outer can 15 and the groove portion 15c. Alternatively, the gasket 17 may be disposed at a position closer to the electrode body 14 than the groove portion 15c.

[0045] Next, refer to Figure 4 The internal structure of battery pack 1 will be explained. Figure 4 yes Figure 1 The AA-line sectional view is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of battery pack 1.

[0046] like Figure 4 As shown, inside the retainer 30, the energy storage device 10 is arranged with the seal 16 positioned below. Furthermore, the level of the coolant 50 is at a position relative to the gasket 17 (see reference). Figure 3 The height of the coolant 50 is positioned above the groove portion 15c. In this embodiment, as described above, the gasket 17 is disposed between the open end of the outer can 15 and the groove portion 15c. Therefore, the height of the coolant 50 is positioned above the groove portion 15c. That is, at least the portion of the energy storage device 10 below the groove portion 15c is immersed in the coolant 50.

[0047] In cases such as abnormal heating of the energy storage device 10, if the energy storage device 10 reaches a high temperature, the temperature of the coolant 50 located on the side of the energy storage device 10 will also rise and become high. At this time, there is a tendency for the temperature of the coolant 50 stored on the upper side of the housing 40 to be higher than the temperature of the coolant 50 stored on the lower side of the housing 40. If the temperature of the coolant 50 becomes high, it will be difficult to adequately cool the energy storage device 10. Alternatively, coolant (or gas formed by the vaporization of coolant) accumulated on the upper side of the housing 40 at a temperature above a certain level may also have a thermal effect on the energy storage device 10. As a result, the temperature of the gasket 17 constituting the energy storage device 10 increases, and the gasket 17 may melt. If the gasket 17 melts, the insulation between the outer can 15 and the sealing body 16 cannot be ensured, which is undesirable from the viewpoint of ensuring the reliability of the battery pack 1.

[0048] As in this embodiment, the energy storage device 10 is positioned with the sealing body 16 at the bottom, so that the height of the coolant 50 is higher than the height of the gasket 17. This allows the coolant, after its temperature rises, to move away from the gasket 17. Therefore, when the energy storage device 10 overheats abnormally, the gasket 17 is easily cooled, and melting of the gasket 17 can be suppressed. This improves the reliability of the battery pack 1. In addition, by distributing the coolant 50 in the gap between the retainer 30 and the main wall 41, the amount of coolant surrounding the gasket 17 can be increased, and the temperature of the coolant near the gasket 17 is less likely to rise.

[0049] The height of the coolant 50 is preferably higher than the height of the electrode body 14, and more preferably higher than the height of the energy storage device 10, meaning the energy storage device 10 is entirely immersed in the coolant 50. By increasing the height of the coolant 50, the gasket 17 can be further cooled, improving the reliability of the battery pack 1. Furthermore, in Figure 4 In the example shown, coolant 50 is filled throughout the interior of housing 40. By filling the interior of housing 40 with coolant 50, the gasket 17 can be further cooled, thereby further improving the reliability of battery pack 1.

[0050] Next, refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 An example of the configuration of the energy storage device 10 and the retaining member 30 inside the housing 40 will be described. Figure 5 and Figure 6 yes Figure 1 The BB-line cross-sectional view is a schematic example of the internal structure of battery pack 1. Furthermore, in Figure 5 and Figure 6 In the diagram, the energy storage device 10 included in the first energy storage device group 100 described later is illustrated with shaded lines, while the energy storage device 10 included in the second energy storage device group 110 is illustrated without shaded lines.

[0051] like Figure 5 , Figure 6 As shown, among the plurality of energy storage devices 10 disposed inside the retainer 30, the spacing between adjacent pairs of energy storage devices 10 can be larger than the spacing between other adjacent pairs of energy storage devices 10. That is, among these plurality of energy storage devices 10, the spacing between the energy storage devices 10 may be uneven, and the energy storage devices 10 may be unevenly distributed within the retainer 30. As a result, an appropriate gap can be provided between the energy storage devices 10, and the coolant 50 flowing into the interior of the retainer 30 can easily circulate within the retainer 30, thereby efficiently cooling the energy storage devices 10.

[0052] exist Figure 5In the example shown, multiple rows of energy storage devices 10 arranged in the left-right direction of the battery pack 1 are formed inside the retainer 30, and multiple rows are arranged in the front-back direction of the battery pack 1. A first energy storage device group 100 and a second energy storage device group 110, composed of a portion of these multiple rows, are arranged in the aforementioned front-back direction (first direction). In each of the first energy storage device group 100 and the second energy storage device group 110, the energy storage devices 10 are arranged with a predetermined gap (first gap) between them. Furthermore, in the front-back direction, a gap (second gap) larger than the gap between the energy storage devices 10 is provided between the first energy storage device group and the second energy storage device group. This second gap can communicate with the first gap. Because of the presence of this second gap, when coolant flows within the retainer 30 for some reason, the coolant in each of the first gaps can converge in the second gap. This convergence allows for more uniform temperature distribution of the coolant.

[0053] Alternatively, a protrusion (fixing part 52) ​​protruding in a direction orthogonal to the front-back direction can be provided in the second gap. Due to this protrusion, the coolant flowing in the second gap can easily collide with the protrusion, generating convection near the protrusion. This convection promotes temperature homogenization of the coolant in the second gap. Alternatively, the protrusion can be used as the fixing point for the retainer 30 and the housing 40, and for the upper retainer 31 and the lower retainer 32. In this case, the protrusion as the fixing part 52 can be a bottomed cylindrical shape. It can also be fastened at the bottom of the protrusion.

[0054] exist Figure 6 In the example shown, a first energy storage device group 100 and a second energy storage device group 110, each comprising a plurality of energy storage devices 10 and having different configurations, are respectively arranged inside the retaining member 30. As an example, the first energy storage device group 100 and the second energy storage device group 110 each include 20 energy storage devices 10.

[0055] In the first energy storage device group 100, 20 energy storage devices 10 are arranged in a staggered pattern, spaced apart from each other in the left-right direction, in pairs. Furthermore, in the first energy storage device group 100, the spacing between the energy storage devices 10 located at the center in the left-right direction is larger than the spacing between the energy storage devices 10 located at the outer edges in the left-right direction. That is, compared to the outer edges of the first energy storage device group 100, the coolant 50 flows more easily in the center of the first energy storage device group 100 in the left-right direction. In a battery pack where the spacing between the energy storage devices 10 is uniform throughout, when the coolant 50 is supplied to the housing 40 by flowing in the front-back direction, in the left-right direction, compared to the energy storage devices 10 closer to the first opening 37, the coolant 50 has difficulty flowing in the gaps around the energy storage devices 10 farther from the first opening 37. However, by making the spacing around the energy storage devices 10 located on the outer side in the left and right directions larger than the spacing around the energy storage devices 10 located on the center side in the left and right directions, as described above, the amount of coolant 50 filling in each energy storage device 10 can be made more uniform.

[0056] Similar to the first energy storage device group 100, in the second energy storage device group 110, 20 energy storage devices 10 are arranged in a staggered pattern, spaced apart from each other in the left-right direction, in pairs. However, in the second energy storage device group 110, the left-right spacing between the energy storage devices 10 located at the center in the left-right direction is smaller than the left-right spacing between the energy storage devices 10 located at the outer left-right direction. That is, in the second energy storage device group 110, the left-right spacing between the energy storage devices 10 located at the outer left-right direction is larger than the left-right spacing between the energy storage devices 10 located at the center in the left-right direction. In other words, compared to the center side of the second energy storage device group 110, the coolant 50 flows more easily in the outer left-right direction. With this structure, the coolant filling amount in each energy storage device can also be made more uniform.

[0057] By arranging two differently configured energy storage device groups 100 and 110 inside the retainer 30, the flow path of the coolant 50 inside the retainer 30 can be made more meandering. As a result, the coolant 50 can easily circulate throughout the entire interior of the retainer 30, increasing the heat exchange between the coolant 50 and the energy storage device 10, and enabling more efficient cooling of the energy storage device 10.

[0058] exist Figure 6In the example shown, the first energy storage device group 100 and the second energy storage device group 110 are arranged alternately in the front-to-back direction. This makes it easier to make the flow path of the coolant 50 inside the retainer 30 meander. As a result, the coolant 50 can easily circulate throughout the entire interior of the retainer 30, increasing the heat exchange between the coolant 50 and the energy storage device 10, and enabling more efficient cooling of the energy storage device 10.

[0059] like Figure 6 As shown, the retainer 30 is disposed approximately in the center of the interior of the housing 40, and an outer peripheral receiving chamber 49 for containing coolant 50 is provided outside the retainer 30. That is, the outer peripheral receiving chamber 49 is the space between the retainer 30 and the housing 40. The coolant 50 flowing out from the second opening 38 of the retainer 30 flows into the outer peripheral receiving chamber 49. By providing the outer peripheral receiving chamber 49, heat exchange occurs between the energy storage device 10 disposed on the outer periphery of the retainer 30, the coolant, and the coolant 50 inside the outer peripheral receiving chamber 49, thus facilitating the cooling of the energy storage device 10 disposed on the outer periphery of the retainer 30. Furthermore, when the upper current collector 60 and the lower current collector 61 are connected on the side of the retainer 30, the coolant in the outer peripheral receiving chamber 49 can be used to cool the energy storage device 10 via each current collector. Furthermore, instead of all the multiple energy storage devices 10 in the retainer 30 being housed inside the side wall portion that separates the outer peripheral receiving chamber 49 from the interior of the retainer 30, some of the multiple energy storage devices 10 may be disposed outside the side wall portion, and these energy storage devices 10 may be disposed within the outer peripheral receiving chamber 49. That is, the energy storage devices 10 disposed outside the side wall portion can directly contact the coolant 50 in the outer peripheral receiving chamber 49. In addition, the side wall portion may not completely block the flow of coolant 50 within the retainer and the outer peripheral receiving chamber 49. A small amount of coolant 50 may also move through gaps in the side wall portion.

[0060] like Figure 6 As shown, a first opening 37 is provided at the center of the front surface 30a of the retainer 30 in the left-right direction, allowing coolant 50 to flow into the interior of the retainer 30. Additionally, two second openings 38 are provided on the rear surface 30b of the retainer 30, allowing coolant 50 from the interior of the retainer 30 to flow out. Furthermore, these first openings 37 and second openings 38 are staggered in the left-right direction. Specifically, the first opening 37 is located at the center of the front surface 30a in the left-right direction, and the second openings 38 are located at both ends of the rear surface 30b in the left-right direction.

[0061] Through the first opening 37 and the second opening 38, the coolant 50 flowing into the interior of the retainer 30 from the first opening 37 can easily flow to the outer periphery of the retainer 30. That is, the coolant flowing in the front-back direction inside the retainer can also easily move in the left-right direction. As a result, in addition to the energy storage device 10 disposed on the central side of the retainer 30, the energy storage device 10 disposed on the outer periphery of the retainer 30 can also be easily cooled. In other words, if the second opening 38 is only provided on the central side in the left-right direction of the rear surface 30b, the coolant 50 is difficult to flow on the outer periphery of the retainer 30, and sometimes it is difficult to efficiently cool the energy storage device 10 disposed on the outer periphery of the retainer 30.

[0062] In this embodiment, when the lateral length of the rear surface 30b is set to L in a top view, as an example, the second opening 38 is only provided within a range of 0.3L from both ends of the rear surface 30b in the lateral direction, and is not provided on the central part of the rear surface 30b in the lateral direction. As a result, the coolant 50 can more easily flow through the outer periphery of the retainer 30 inside the retainer 30, which can further cool the energy storage device 10 disposed on the outer periphery of the retainer 30.

[0063] In this embodiment, when viewed from above, the rear surface 30b, which is part of the sidewall portion of the retainer 30, has a generally rectangular shape. Alternatively, as an example, the rear surface 30b is wavy, composed of multiple curved plates, with the second opening 38 formed at the ends of each curved surface in the left-right direction and at portions other than the center of each curved surface in the left-right direction. According to this structure, when the coolant flows between the rear surface 30b and the housing 40 in the gap that forms part of the peripheral receiving chamber 49, it can flow to a larger area.

[0064] Next, further reference Figure 7 The connecting part 70 will be explained. Figure 7 yes Figure 1 The CC-line sectional view (the front-to-back sectional view of the central part in the left-right direction) is a view that enlarges the area around the connecting part 70.

[0065] like Figure 2 and Figure 7As shown, the connecting portion 70 has a generally cylindrical shape and is a component that connects the first opening 37 to the inflow portion 47. By providing the connecting portion 70, the coolant 50 flowing in from the inflow portion 47 flows directly into the interior of the retainer 30 through the first opening 37. This prevents the coolant from preferentially filling the gap between the retainer 30 and the housing 40 compared to the gap within the retainer 30, thereby increasing the amount of coolant 50 flowing into the interior of the retainer 30 and efficiently cooling the energy storage device 10 inside the retainer 30. This effect is particularly effective when the gap between adjacent energy storage devices 10 is smaller than the gap between the retainer 30 and the housing 40. Alternatively, the retainer 30 may be provided with a sidewall portion that houses the energy storage device 10 and separates the interior and exterior of the retainer 30. This sidewall portion does not necessarily need to be liquid-tight, as long as the pressure loss is higher than the gap between the energy storage devices 10. When the retainer 30 is divided into an upper retainer 31 and a lower retainer 32, the sidewall portion of the upper retainer 31 and the sidewall portion of the lower retainer 32 can be arranged to form a sidewall portion of a single surface.

[0066] The connecting part 70 is made of, for example, a metal material including iron, aluminum, or a resin material. As the resin material constituting the connecting part 70, the resin material constituting the retaining member 30 can be used, for example.

[0067] The connecting portion 70 has a cylindrical portion 71 inserted into the inflow portion 47 and an outer peripheral portion 72 formed on the outer periphery of the cylindrical portion 71. The cylindrical portion 71 has a cylindrical shape extending in the front-rear direction and has an open shape at both ends. The outer peripheral portion 72 has a generally rectangular shape when viewed from above the front surface 40a of the housing 40 and is formed throughout the entire circumference of the cylindrical portion 71. In addition, the outer peripheral portion 72 abuts against the outer surface of the housing 40 and is fixed to the housing 40 by a threaded member (not shown) or the like. That is, the outer peripheral portion 72 is the part used to fix the connecting portion 70 to the housing 40. Furthermore, the method of fixing the outer peripheral portion 72 to the housing 40 is not limited to this; for example, the outer peripheral portion 72 can also be fixed to the housing 40 by an adhesive or the like. In addition, a sealing member 73 such as an O-ring is provided between the outer peripheral portion 72 and the housing 40, thereby improving the airtightness of the interior of the housing 40.

[0068] like Figure 7 As shown, the rear end of the cylindrical portion 71 engages with a recess 39 provided on the front surface 30a of the retainer 30. The recess 39 is formed in annular shape and clamps the cylindrical portion 71 throughout its circumference. The shape of the recess 39 is not particularly limited as long as it can clamp the cylindrical portion 71; for example, it may have a depth (length in the front-to-back direction) of 1 mm or more and 20 mm or less. Alternatively, the recess 39 may also be a structure that engages with a portion of the outer periphery of the cylindrical portion 71.

[0069] By fitting the connecting portion 70 into the recess 39, the pressure loss in the area between the connecting portion 70 and the recess 39 is relatively high, thus enabling a simple structure to connect the connecting portion 70 to the first opening 37. In other words, without the recess 39, the component that connects the connecting portion 70 to the retainer 30 sometimes requires a sealing member to ensure the sealing of the connection. From the viewpoint of suppressing increased manufacturing costs and the workability of the connection process, it is preferable to have fewer components constituting the battery pack 1. In this embodiment, the recess 39 is provided near the first opening 37. However, it is also possible that the recess is formed near the inlet of the housing 40, and a portion of the connecting portion 70 fits into the recess.

[0070] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the connecting portion 70 is composed of a component that is independent of the retainer 30 and the housing 40, but the connecting portion 70 may also be integrally formed with the retainer 30 or the housing 40.

[0071] As described above, in the battery pack 1 of this embodiment, the energy storage device 10 is arranged with the sealing body 16 at the bottom, and the level of the coolant 50 is located above the height of the gasket 17. Therefore, when the energy storage device 10 overheats abnormally, the gasket 17 is easily cooled, and melting of the gasket 17 can be suppressed. This improves the reliability of the battery pack 1.

[0072] Furthermore, in the battery pack 1 of this embodiment, for the plurality of energy storage devices 10 disposed inside the retainer 30, the spacing between adjacent pairs of energy storage devices 10 is larger than the spacing between other adjacent pairs of energy storage devices 10. Therefore, an appropriate gap can be provided between the energy storage devices 10, allowing the coolant 50 flowing into the retainer 30 to circulate easily within the retainer 30, thus efficiently cooling the energy storage devices 10. As a result, the reliability of the battery pack 1 can be improved.

[0073] Furthermore, in the battery pack 1 of this embodiment, the first opening 37 and the second opening 38 are arranged offset from each other. This facilitates cooling not only of the energy storage device 10 disposed on the central side of the retainer 30, but also of the energy storage device 10 disposed on the outer periphery of the retainer 30. As a result, the reliability of the battery pack 1 can be improved.

[0074] Furthermore, the battery pack 1 of this embodiment includes a connecting portion 70 that connects the inflow portion 47 provided in the housing 40 to the first opening portion 37 provided in the retaining member 30. Additionally, an outer peripheral receiving chamber 49 for containing coolant 50 is provided on the outer periphery of the retaining member 30. This allows for heat exchange between the energy storage device 10 disposed on the outer periphery of the retaining member 30 and the coolant 50 inside the outer peripheral receiving chamber 49, thus facilitating cooling of the energy storage device 10 disposed on the outer periphery of the retaining member 30. As a result, the reliability of the battery pack 1 can be improved.

[0075] Furthermore, this disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and alterations can be made within the scope of the claims and their equivalents. For example, in the above-described embodiments, the battery pack 1 includes a connecting portion 70 that connects the first opening 37 to the inflow portion 47, but the battery pack 1 may also omit the connecting portion 70. Additionally, in the battery pack 1, the peripheral receiving chamber 49 for containing the coolant 50 may not be provided on the outer periphery of the retainer 30.

[0076] In addition, in the above embodiment, the energy storage device 10 is configured with the sealing body 16 on the lower side, but the energy storage device 10 may also be configured with the sealing body 16 on the upper side, that is, with the bottom 15a of the outer can 15 on the lower side.

[0077] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the connecting portion 70 is clamped by the recess 39 provided on the front surface 30a of the retainer 30 and engages with the retainer 30, but the engagement method between the connecting portion 70 and the retainer 30 is not limited to this. For example, such as Figure 8As shown, a protrusion 80 protruding forward can also be provided at the periphery of the first opening 37, and the outer peripheral surface of the protrusion 80 can be joined to the inner peripheral surface of the connecting portion 70 (cylindrical portion 71). Alternatively, the inner peripheral surface of the protrusion 80 can be joined to the outer peripheral surface of the connecting portion 70. Furthermore, a sealing member 74, such as an O-ring, can be provided between the connecting portion 70 and the retaining member 30 to improve the internal sealing of the connecting portion 70. Additionally, a cylindrical restraining ring 75 can be provided between the sealing member 74 and the protrusion 80. According to this structure, compared to a structure where the O-ring directly abuts against the protrusion 80 for sealing, the contact area is increased, resulting in a more liquid-tight seal. An adhesive can also be placed between the restraining ring 75 and the protrusion 80. The restraining ring 75 is particularly effective when the first opening 37 is constructed by combining the two notches of the upper retaining member 31 and the lower retaining member 32 (the first notch of the upper retaining member 31 and the second notch of the lower retaining member 32). When the protrusions 80 near the first notch and the protrusions near the second notch are combined to form a cylindrical protrusion, the seam between the protrusions can be easily covered by the restraining ring 75. Alternatively, the inner circumferential surface of the opening at the retaining end of the connecting portion 70 can be positioned on the outside of the O-ring and the O-ring can be pressed inward. This improves the reliability of the O-ring-based seal.

[0078] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the energy storage devices 10 are arranged with a predetermined gap, but the arrangement of the energy storage devices 10 is not limited to this. For example, such as Figure 9 As shown, the energy storage devices 10 can also be configured such that the spacing between them in the left-right direction is approximately the same. Figure 9 In the example shown, the energy storage device 10 is periodically arranged on the grid points of the triangular grid. In this case, it is easy to miniaturize the battery pack 1. Alternatively, the energy storage device 10 can also be periodically arranged on the grid points of the four corner grids.

[0079] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the second opening 38 is not located in the region on the central side of the rear surface 30b of the retainer 30 in the left-right direction, but the arrangement of the second opening 38 is not limited to this. For example, as Figure 9 As shown, the second opening 38 may be provided not only in the region on the outer side of the rear surface 30b of the retainer 30 in the left-right direction, but also in the region on the central side of the rear surface 30b of the retainer 30 in the left-right direction. Alternatively, the second opening 38 may be provided only in the region on the central side of the rear surface 30b of the retainer 30 in the left-right direction.

[0080] This disclosure is further illustrated by the following embodiments.

[0081] Component 1:

[0082] An energy storage module includes: a plurality of energy storage devices; a retaining member that holds the plurality of energy storage devices; and a coolant in which the plurality of energy storage devices are immersed.

[0083] Composition 2:

[0084] According to the energy storage module of configuration 1, the energy storage device includes: an electrode body; an outer can housing the electrode body and having a bottomed cylindrical shape; a sealing body blocking the opening of the outer can; and a gasket disposed between the outer can and the sealing body. Inside the retainer, the energy storage device is arranged such that the sealing body is on the lower side in the vertical direction, and the height of the coolant level is on the upper side in the vertical direction than the height of the gasket.

[0085] Composition 3:

[0086] According to configuration 1 or 2, the height of the coolant level is vertically upward than the height of the electrode body.

[0087] Composition 4:

[0088] According to any one of the following configurations, the height of the coolant level is vertically upward than the height of the energy storage device.

[0089] Component 5:

[0090] According to any one of the following configurations, the energy storage module includes a housing that accommodates the retaining member, and the coolant is disposed between the retaining member and the housing.

[0091] Composition 6:

[0092] According to the energy storage module described in configuration 5, the housing has a bottom and a wall portion erected on the bottom. In the energy storage device, the portion of the sealing body faces the bottom. A rib is formed on the bottom surface of the housing opposite to the retainer. The retainer is fixed to the rib. A gap is formed between the retainer and the base plate.

[0093] Composition 7:

[0094] According to the energy storage module described in configuration 6, an exhaust valve is provided on the sealing plate of the energy storage device.

[0095] Composition 8:

[0096] According to the energy storage module of configuration 1, in the plurality of energy storage devices, the spacing between the energy storage devices in an adjacent pair of energy storage devices is greater than the spacing between the energy storage devices in another adjacent pair of energy storage devices.

[0097] Composition 9:

[0098] According to the energy storage module of configuration 8, a first energy storage device group and a second energy storage device group are respectively arranged in the retaining member, each including a plurality of energy storage devices and the energy storage devices having different configurations. The first energy storage device group and the second energy storage device group are arranged in a first direction. In the first direction, the interval between the first energy storage device group and the second energy storage device group is larger than the interval between adjacent energy storage devices in the first energy storage device group. The space between the energy storage devices in the first energy storage device group is connected to the space between the first energy storage device group and the second energy storage device group.

[0099] Composition 10:

[0100] According to the energy storage module of configuration 9, the retainer has a protrusion extending in a third direction orthogonal to the first direction in the space between the first energy storage device group and the second energy storage device group.

[0101] Composition 11:

[0102] According to the energy storage module of configuration 10, the energy storage module further includes a housing for housing the retaining member, and the protrusion is a bottomed cylindrical shape, which is a fixing part for fixing the retaining member to the housing.

[0103] Composition 12:

[0104] According to any one of the following configurations, the energy storage module comprises a first energy storage device group and a second energy storage device group, each including a plurality of the energy storage devices and the energy storage devices having different configurations. The first energy storage device group and the second energy storage device group are arranged in a first direction. When the retainer is viewed from above, in the first energy storage device group, the energy storage devices located on the central side of a second direction orthogonal to the first direction are spaced further apart than the energy storage devices located on the outer side of the second direction. In the second energy storage device group, the energy storage devices located on the outer side of the second direction are spaced further apart than the energy storage devices located on the central side of the second direction.

[0105] Composition 13:

[0106] According to the energy storage module of configuration 12, the first energy storage device group and the second energy storage device group are alternately arranged in the first direction.

[0107] Composition 14:

[0108] According to any one of the following configurations, the energy storage module further comprises a housing for housing the retaining member, the housing having an inlet portion for allowing the coolant to flow in from the outside and an outlet portion for allowing the coolant to flow out from the outside.

[0109] Composition 15:

[0110] According to the energy storage module of configuration 14, the retaining member has a first opening for the coolant to flow into the interior of the retaining member and a second opening for the coolant inside the retaining member to flow out to the exterior of the retaining member, and the energy storage module further includes a connecting portion that connects the inflow portion to the first opening portion.

[0111] Composition 16:

[0112] According to configuration 1, the energy storage module includes a housing for housing the retaining member, the housing having an inflow portion for allowing coolant to flow in from the outside, the retaining member having: a first opening provided on a first surface opposite to the inflow portion for allowing coolant to flow into the interior of the retaining member; and at least one second opening provided on a second surface opposite to the first surface in a first direction for allowing coolant inside the retaining member to flow out to the outside of the retaining member, the first opening and the second opening being staggered from each other.

[0113] Composition 17:

[0114] According to the energy storage module of configuration 16, the housing has an outlet portion for the coolant to flow out to the outside, a gap is formed between the housing and the retaining member, and a gap is formed between the second opening and the housing.

[0115] Composition 18:

[0116] According to the energy storage module of configuration 16 or 17, the energy storage module further includes a connecting portion that connects the inflow portion to the first opening portion.

[0117] Composition 19:

[0118] According to any one of the configurations 16 to 18, when the direction orthogonal to the first direction is set as the second direction, the first opening is provided at the center of the first surface in the second direction.

[0119] Composition 20:

[0120] According to the energy storage module of configuration 19, the second opening is provided at one end in the second direction.

[0121] Composition 21:

[0122] According to configuration 1, the energy storage module includes a housing that houses the retainer, and an outer peripheral receiving chamber for housing the coolant is provided between the housing and the retainer. The retainer has a side wall portion that separates the coolant inside the retainer from the coolant outside the retainer.

[0123] Composition 22:

[0124] According to the energy storage module of configuration 21, the energy storage module has an inlet portion for the coolant to flow in from the outside and an outlet portion for the coolant to flow out from the outside. The retaining member has: a first opening portion provided at a position opposite to the inlet portion for the coolant to flow into the interior of the retaining member; and at least one second opening portion for the coolant inside the retaining member to flow out from the outside of the retaining member. The energy storage module also includes a connecting portion connecting the inlet portion and the first opening portion.

[0125] Composition 23:

[0126] According to the energy storage module of configuration 22, the first opening and the second opening are respectively provided on the opposing surfaces of the retaining member.

[0127] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0128] 1. Battery pack; 10. Energy storage device; 11. Positive electrode; 12. Negative electrode; 13. Separator; 14. Electrode body; 15. Outer can; 15a. Bottom; 15b. Side; 15c. Groove; 15d. Opening; 16. Sealing body; 17. Gasket; 18. 19. Insulating plate; 20. Positive lead; 21. Negative lead; 30. Holding member; 30a. Front surface; 30b. Rear surface; 31. Upper holding member; 32. Lower holding member; 33. 34. Battery holding part; 35. 36. Through hole; 37. First opening (opening); 38. Second 39. Opening; 40. Recess; 40a. Shell; 40b. Front surface; 40c. Rear surface; 41. Main wall; 42, 43, 44, 45. Side wall; 46. Top cover; 47. Inlet; 48. Outlet; 49. Outer perimeter chamber; 50. Coolant; 51. Rib; 52. Fixing part; 60. Upper collector plate; 61. Lower collector plate; 62, 63. Lead wire; 70. Connecting part; 71. Cylindrical part; 72. Outer perimeter; 73, 74. Sealing member; 75. Restraining ring; 80. Protrusion; 100. First energy storage device group; 110. Second energy storage device group.

Claims

1. An energy storage module, wherein, This energy storage module has the following features: Multiple energy storage devices; A retainer that holds the plurality of said energy storage devices; and Coolant, in which the plurality of the energy storage devices are immersed in the retainer.

2. The energy storage module according to claim 1, wherein, The energy storage device has the following features: Electrode body; An outer can housing the electrode body and having a bottomed cylindrical shape; A sealing element that blocks the opening of the outer can; as well as A gasket, disposed between the outer can and the sealing body, Inside the retainer, the energy storage device is arranged such that the sealing body is located on the lower side in the vertical direction. The height of the coolant level is higher in the vertical direction than the height of the gasket.

3. The energy storage module according to claim 2, wherein, The height of the coolant level is higher in the vertical direction than the height of the electrode body.

4. The energy storage module according to claim 2, wherein, The height of the coolant level is higher in the vertical direction than the height of the energy storage device.

5. The energy storage module according to claim 2, wherein, The energy storage module has a housing that accommodates the retaining member. The coolant is disposed between the retainer and the housing.

6. The energy storage module according to claim 5, wherein, The housing has a bottom and a wall portion erected at the bottom. In the energy storage device, the portion on the sealing body side faces the bottom. Ribs are formed on the bottom surface of the housing opposite to the retainer. The retainer is fixed to the rib. A gap is formed between the retainer and the bottom.

7. The energy storage module according to claim 6, wherein, An exhaust valve is provided on the sealing plate of the energy storage device.

8. The energy storage module according to claim 1, wherein, In a plurality of said energy storage devices, the spacing between the energy storage devices in an adjacent pair of said energy storage devices is greater than the spacing between the energy storage devices in another adjacent pair of said energy storage devices.

9. The energy storage module according to claim 8, wherein, The retaining member is equipped with a first energy storage device group and a second energy storage device group, each comprising a plurality of the aforementioned energy storage devices, and the configurations of the energy storage devices being different from each other. The first energy storage device group and the second energy storage device group are arranged in the first direction. In the first direction, the spacing between the first energy storage device group and the second energy storage device group is greater than the spacing between adjacent energy storage devices in the first energy storage device group. The spaces between the energy storage devices in the first energy storage device group are connected to the spaces between the first energy storage device group and the second energy storage device group.

10. The energy storage module according to claim 9, wherein, The retainer has a protrusion extending in a third direction orthogonal to the first direction in the space between the first energy storage device group and the second energy storage device group.

11. The energy storage module according to claim 10, wherein, The energy storage module also includes a housing that accommodates the retaining member. The protrusion is a bottomed cylindrical shape and serves as a fixing part to secure the retainer to the housing.

12. The energy storage module according to claim 8, wherein, The retaining member is equipped with a first energy storage device group and a second energy storage device group, each comprising a plurality of the aforementioned energy storage devices, and the configurations of the energy storage devices being different from each other. The first energy storage device group and the second energy storage device group are arranged in the first direction. When viewed from above, in the first energy storage device group, the spacing between the energy storage devices located on the central side of the second direction orthogonal to the first direction is greater than the spacing between the energy storage devices located on the outer side of the second direction. In the second energy storage device group, the energy storage devices located on the outer side of the second direction are spaced apart from each other than the energy storage devices located on the central side of the second direction.

13. The energy storage module according to claim 12, wherein, The first energy storage device group and the second energy storage device group are alternately arranged in the first direction.

14. The energy storage module according to claim 8, wherein, The energy storage module also includes a housing that accommodates the retaining member. The housing has an inlet for the coolant to flow in from the outside and an outlet for the coolant to flow out from the outside.

15. The energy storage module according to claim 14, wherein, The retainer has a first opening for the coolant to flow into the interior of the retainer and a second opening for the coolant inside the retainer to flow out to the exterior of the retainer. The energy storage module also includes a connecting portion that connects the inflow portion to the first opening portion.

16. The energy storage module according to claim 1, wherein, The energy storage module includes a housing that accommodates the retaining member, the housing having an inlet portion for the coolant to flow in from the outside. The retainer has: A first opening, located on a first surface opposite to the inflow portion, allows the coolant to flow into the interior of the retainer; and At least one second opening is provided on a second surface opposite to the first surface in the first direction, allowing the coolant inside the retainer to flow out to the outside of the retainer. The first opening and the second opening are staggered.

17. The energy storage module according to claim 16, wherein, The housing has an outlet portion that allows the coolant to flow out to the outside. A gap is formed between the housing and the retainer. A gap is formed between the second opening and the housing.

18. The energy storage module according to claim 16, wherein, The energy storage module also includes a connecting portion that connects the inflow portion to the first opening portion.

19. The energy storage module according to claim 16, wherein, When the direction orthogonal to the first direction is defined as the second direction, the first opening is located at the center of the first surface in the second direction.

20. The energy storage module according to claim 19, wherein, The second opening is located at one end in the second direction.

21. The energy storage module according to claim 1, wherein, The energy storage module has a housing that accommodates the retaining member. An outer peripheral receiving chamber for containing the coolant is provided between the housing and the retaining member. The retainer has a sidewall portion that separates the coolant inside the retainer from the coolant outside the retainer.

22. The energy storage module according to claim 21, wherein, The energy storage module has an inlet for the coolant to flow in from the outside and an outlet for the coolant to flow out from the outside. The retainer has: A first opening, located opposite the inflow portion, allows the coolant to flow into the interior of the retainer; and At least one second opening allows the coolant inside the retainer to flow out to the outside of the retainer. The energy storage module also includes a connecting portion that connects the inflow portion to the first opening portion.

23. The energy storage module according to claim 22, wherein, The first opening and the second opening are respectively located on the opposite sides of the retainer.

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