Battery package

Abstract

A battery package has: a plurality of battery blocks that have block through holes that open at a pair of block main surfaces; a plurality of heat dissipation plates that have plate opening holes that open at positions opposite to end surfaces of the block through holes between adjacent battery blocks; a plurality of heat dissipation pipes that are respectively inserted in the block through holes and have pipe through holes formed inside; and a joint shaft that is inserted in a series of the pipe through holes in a state in which the heat dissipation pipes are arranged in a coaxial posture in which the heat dissipation pipes are connected to the plurality of heat dissipation plates at surfaces of the heat dissipation plates via the pipe through holes of the surfaces, and connects the plurality of battery blocks via the series of heat dissipation pipes in a state in which the heat dissipation pipes and the heat dissipation plates are thermally coupled.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to battery packaging. Background Technology

[0002] Battery packages that connect multiple rechargeable secondary battery cells, such as lithium-ion secondary batteries, to drive electrical devices are used in various applications (e.g., Patent Document 1). In such battery packages, when the number of secondary battery cells used increases, it is necessary to use battery blocks with multiple secondary battery cells connected in a multi-level overlapping manner. On the other hand, secondary battery cells generate heat due to charging and discharging, so it is required that heat be efficiently dissipated from the battery package to the outside.

[0003] However, efficiently dissipating heat to the outside is not easy in a battery package with multiple layers of stacked battery blocks. In particular, the battery blocks sandwiched between the heating battery blocks tend to accumulate heat internally and have almost no exposed surfaces for heat dissipation like the battery blocks at the ends, making heat dissipation difficult. Therefore, while adding structures for heat dissipation is considered, the requirements for miniaturization and low cost of the battery package also make its implementation challenging.

[0004] On the other hand, in a structure that stacks battery blocks in multiple layers, the required connection strength between the battery blocks also needs to be used in this fixed structure.

[0005] Existing technical documents

[0006] Patent documents

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2012-89478 Summary of the Invention

[0008] One objective of this invention is to provide a battery package that improves heat dissipation. Another objective is to provide a battery package that improves the bonding strength in a structure where multiple battery cells are stacked. It should be noted that the description of these objectives and objectives does not preclude the existence of other objectives and objectives. Furthermore, one solution of this invention does not need to solve all of these objectives. Moreover, other objectives besides these can be extracted from the description, drawings, and technical solutions of this invention.

[0009] According to one aspect of the present invention, a battery package includes: a plurality of battery blocks comprising a plurality of secondary battery cells, wherein each of the plurality of battery blocks has a pair of main surfaces and a block end face intersecting the pair of main surfaces, and the end face of a block through hole penetrating the pair of main surfaces is open on each main surface; a plurality of heat sinks disposed between the opposing main surfaces of adjacent battery blocks, and each heat sink has a plate opening hole at a position opposite to the end face of the block through hole; a plurality of heat sink tubes inserted into each block through hole and having a tube through port inside; and a connecting shaft arranged coaxially such that the heat sink tubes are connected to the front and back surfaces of the plurality of heat sinks via the tube through ports on the front and back surfaces of the plurality of heat sinks through the plate opening holes, and inserted into a series of tube through ports, thereby connecting the plurality of battery blocks in a state of thermal coupling between the heat sink tubes and the heat sinks.

[0010] According to one aspect of the present invention, a battery package can efficiently dissipate heat from the interior of the battery blocks and the interfaces between the battery blocks through heat pipes and heat dissipation plates, which are prone to heat accumulation, by means of heat pipes and heat dissipation plates in a thermally coupled state, while connecting multiple battery blocks using connecting shafts. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the battery package according to Embodiment 1.

[0012] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the battery package.

[0013] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A vertical sectional view of line III-III.

[0014] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A vertical sectional view of line IV-IV.

[0015] Figure 5 It means Figure 2 A three-dimensional diagram showing the decomposed state of each battery cell.

[0016] Figure 6 It means Figure 2 A three-dimensional diagram showing the decomposed state of the first battery cell.

[0017] Figure 7 From Figure 5 An exploded stereoscopic view observed from the back side of the core.

[0018] Figure 8 yes Figure 5 Further exploded three-dimensional view of the core.

[0019] Figure 9 It means Figure 2 An exploded 3D view of the interface between the first and second battery blocks, showing the heat sink, heat fins, refractory sheet, and lead plate.

[0020] Figure 10 yes Figure 8 Further exploded three-dimensional view of the core.

[0021] Figure 11 yes Figure 3 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the area of ​​the battery package surrounded by dashed lines.

[0022] Figure 12 It means Figure 3 A vertical cross-sectional view of the heat dissipation path of the battery package.

[0023] Figure 13 This is an enlarged three-dimensional view showing the connection structure of the lead plate. Detailed Implementation

[0024] The method of the present invention can also be determined by the following structure and features.

[0025] In another embodiment of the battery package of the present invention, based on the above embodiment, the plurality of battery blocks are arranged in an orientation in which the main surface of the blocks is orthogonal to the connecting axis, and a plurality of through holes are provided on the main surface of the blocks, spaced apart along a first direction in a direction orthogonal to the connecting axis. According to the above structure, through holes can be formed at multiple locations in each battery block, allowing for efficient cooling of the interior of the battery block from multiple mutually separated locations.

[0026] Furthermore, in other embodiments of the battery package of the present invention, based on any of the above embodiments, the plurality of battery blocks have multiple through-holes that are spaced apart from each other along the end edges of the main surface of the blocks. According to the above structure, multiple through-holes can be formed on the surface side of each battery block, allowing the surface of the battery block to be cooled from multiple spaced-apart locations.

[0027] Furthermore, in other embodiments of the battery package of the present invention, the heat sink and heat pipe are both made of metal, based on any of the above embodiments. According to the above structure, the heat dissipation performance of the battery pack can be improved by utilizing the heat sink and heat pipe made of metal with high thermal conductivity.

[0028] Furthermore, in addition to any of the above embodiments, other battery packages of the present invention also include a thermally conductive outer casing that houses a core block formed by combining the plurality of battery blocks. This outer casing is securely connected to the connecting shaft in a thermally coupled state with a heat dissipation pipe exposed at the end face of the through-hole on the main surface of the core block. According to this structure, the connecting shaft can be securely connected to the thermally conductive outer casing, and heat dissipation is further improved by conducting heat to the outer casing side via the heat dissipation pipe.

[0029] Furthermore, in other embodiments of the battery package of the present invention, based on any of the above embodiments, the outer casing is divided into a first casing and a second casing. The second casing has a threaded boss that abuts against the front end of the connecting shaft and the open end of the heat dissipation pipe surrounding the front end of the connecting shaft. According to the above structure, the second casing can engage with the heat dissipation pipe and the connecting shaft via the threaded boss, thereby conducting heat to the outer casing side and improving heat dissipation.

[0030] Furthermore, in other embodiments of the battery package of the present invention, the second housing is formed of a metal housing, based on any of the above embodiments. According to the above structure, the heat of the battery cell can be efficiently dissipated to the outside via the metal second housing.

[0031] Furthermore, in other embodiments of the present invention, the battery package, based on any of the above embodiments, includes the plurality of battery blocks comprising: a first battery block; a second battery block disposed on the main surface of the first battery block; and a third battery block disposed on the main surface of the second battery block, wherein the main surface of the third battery block is formed to be larger than the main surface of the second battery block.

[0032] Furthermore, in addition to any of the above embodiments, the battery package of other embodiments of the present invention also includes a heat sink with insulation and flexibility disposed at the interface between the heat sink and the main surface of the battery block. According to the above structure, while achieving insulation between the heat sink and the battery block, the flexible heat sink is sandwiched at the interface between the heat sink and the battery block, thereby avoiding gaps at the interface, improving thermal coupling, and thus improving thermal conductivity.

[0033] Furthermore, in addition to any of the above embodiments, other battery packages of the present invention also include a fire-resistant sheet disposed at the interface between the heat sink and the main surface of the battery block, in a position that does not overlap with the heat sink and has fire resistance. According to the above structure, even if a secondary battery cell in a battery block catches fire, the fire-resistant sheet can be used to suppress the spread of flames to the battery block side opposite the heat sink, thereby improving safety.

[0034] Furthermore, in other embodiments of the battery package of the present invention, based on any of the above embodiments, each of the plurality of secondary battery cells has a gas venting section on one end face of each secondary battery cell for venting gas when the internal pressure rises, and the refractory sheet is disposed opposite to one end face of the secondary battery cell. According to the above structure, by placing the refractory sheet, which is disposed in a position not overlapping with the heat sink, opposite the end face of the cell with the gas venting section, even if high-temperature, high-pressure gas is discharged from the gas venting section, the refractory sheet can be used to suppress the spread of flame to the battery block side opposite the heat sink.

[0035] Furthermore, in other embodiments of the present invention, the battery package, based on any of the above embodiments, has a step formed on the end face of the heat sink, and the heat sink and the refractory sheet respectively open or bypass the portion where the heat sink is disposed. According to the above structure, it is possible to prevent the heat sink and the refractory sheet from obstructing thermal coupling at the interface between the heat sink and the heat sink plate.

[0036] Furthermore, in addition to any of the above embodiments, the battery package of the present invention further comprises: a lead plate disposed on the main surface of the block and connecting the plurality of secondary battery cells; and a busbar connected to the lead plate at the outer edge of the heat sink. According to the above structure, while the heat sink is sandwiched between the battery blocks, electrical connection between the battery blocks can be achieved by the busbar bypassing the heat sink.

[0037] Furthermore, in other embodiments of the battery package of the present invention, based on any of the above embodiments, the heat sink has a notch formed at its end edge, and the busbar is disposed in the notch. According to the above structure, the busbar can be easily positioned and disposed at the end edge of the lead plate.

[0038] Furthermore, in addition to any of the above embodiments, the battery package of the present invention further includes a metal current collector that is stacked with the lead plate and is thicker than the lead plate, and the busbar is connected to the current collector. According to the above structure, by stacking a thicker current collector on the lead plate, a large current can be passed to the lead plate, and it is also connected to the busbar.

[0039] Furthermore, in other embodiments of the present invention, the heat dissipation pipes are arranged in the same orientation as the plurality of secondary battery cells, based on any of the above embodiments. According to the above structure, the heat dissipation pipes can be configured in a manner that does not obstruct the battery pack.

[0040] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described based on the accompanying drawings. However, the embodiments shown below are illustrative examples used to concretize the technical concept of the present invention, and the present invention is not specific to the following content. In addition, this specification does not specifically designate the components shown in the patented technical solutions as components of the embodiments. In particular, the dimensions, materials, shapes, and relative arrangements of the constituent components described in the embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention unless specifically described therein, and are merely illustrative examples. It should be noted that the size, positional relationship, etc. of the components shown in the various drawings are sometimes exaggerated for the purpose of clarity. Moreover, in the following description, the same names and reference numerals refer to the same or homogeneous components, and detailed descriptions are appropriately omitted. Furthermore, the elements constituting the present invention can also be configured such that the same component constitutes multiple elements, or one component can perform multiple elements, or conversely, multiple components can share the function of one component.

[0041] The battery package of the present invention is used as a power source for driving mobile devices such as electric trolleys, electric scooters, and electric bicycles. It is also used as a power source for portable electrical devices such as wireless phones, electric cleaners, and power tools. In fixed-location energy storage applications, it can be used as a backup power source for servers, a power supply for homes, businesses, and factories. Furthermore, it can be used as a power source for driving vehicles such as hybrid vehicles and electric motor vehicles. Hereinafter, as an embodiment of the present invention, a battery package used as a driving power source for an electric motorcycle will be described.

[0042] [Implementation Method 1]

[0043] The battery package 100 of Embodiment 1 of the present invention is placed in... Figures 1 to 13 The text is incomplete and contains several errors. A more accurate translation would require the full context. Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the battery package 100 according to Embodiment 1. Figure 2 express Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the battery package 100. Figure 3 express Figure 1 Vertical sectional view of line III-III Figure 4 express Figure 1 Vertical sectional view of line IV-IV, Figure 5 It means Figure 2 An exploded 3D diagram showing the individual states of battery cell 20 in the core 2. Figure 6 It means Figure 2 An exploded 3D view of the first battery block 21 in its decomposed state. Figure 7 Indicates from Figure 5 An exploded stereoscopic view of the back side of core 2. Figure 8 express Figure 5 Further exploded perspective view of core block 2, Figure 9 It means Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of the interface between the first battery block 21 and the second battery block 22, showing the heat sink 30, heat sink 60, refractory sheet 70, and lead plate 4. Figure 10 express Figure 8 Further exploded perspective view of core block 2, Figure 11 express Figure 3 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the area enclosed by dashed lines in the battery package 100. Figure 12 It means Figure 3 A vertical cross-sectional view of the heat dissipation path of the battery package 100 (HP). Figure 13 These are enlarged perspective views showing the connection structure of the lead plate. The battery package 100 shown in these figures includes an outer casing 10 and a core 2.

[0044] (Outer casing 10)

[0045] The outer casing 10 is a component used to house the core block 2. The outer casing 10 can have any shape that provides internal storage space. Figures 1-3 In the example shown, the outer casing 10 enlarges the lower part to form a boot shape. However, the outer casing is not limited to this shape and can be any shape such as a cuboid, cube, prism, cylinder, or elliptical cylinder.

[0046] The outer casing is divided into multiple sections. Figure 2 In this example, the outer casing 10 is composed of a first casing 11 and a second casing 12 divided along the vertical direction. The first casing 11 is prismatic in shape with an opening on its lower surface, protruding forward and communicating with the internal space. Furthermore, the first casing 11 is cylindrical with an opening on its upper surface, which is sealed by a cover 14. The cover 14 is connected to the first casing 11 by screwing together a mating surface formed around the opening on the upper surface. It should be noted that this structure is not limited to this; the cover and the first casing can also be integrally formed. On the other hand, the second casing 12 is formed as a barrel with an opening on its upper surface of the same size as the opening on the lower surface of the first casing 11. The second casing 12 has a threaded boss 16 formed on the bottom surface of the opening for fixing to the core block 2. A threaded groove is formed on the threaded boss 16 that engages with the threaded teeth of the front end of the connecting shaft 50, which will be described later.

[0047] Inside the outer casing 10, such as Figures 2-4 The internal space for housing the core block 2 is formed as shown. The first housing 11 and the second housing 12 each have an opening at their mating surfaces, and the core block 2 is stored in a clamping manner. In addition, the mating surfaces formed around the opening ends are screwed together, thereby joining the first housing 11 and the second housing 12.

[0048] The second housing 12 is made of a material that is both rigid and thermally conductive. Preferably, it is made of metals such as aluminum, magnesium, zinc, iron, or SUS. Figure 2 In this example, the first housing 11 is made of polycarbonate resin with excellent formability. The heat from the core 2 can be efficiently dissipated to the outside via the second metal housing 12 (details below).

[0049] (Core 2)

[0050] Additionally, inside the outer casing 10, such as Figures 2-4 The core module 2 is housed as shown. The core module 2 is composed of multiple battery blocks 20. The core module 2 is composed of multiple battery blocks 20, multiple heat sinks 30, multiple heat pipes 40, multiple connecting shafts 50, etc. The multiple battery blocks 20 are connected in a multi-level stacked configuration.

[0051] (Battery Block 20)

[0052] Each battery block 20 houses multiple secondary battery cells 1. Multiple battery blocks 20, each housing multiple secondary battery cells 1, can be combined and used, making it easy to adjust the number of secondary battery cells used. Furthermore, when using multiple secondary battery cells, dividing the battery blocks into multiple blocks simplifies the structure by properly managing each block.

[0053] The battery block 20 is composed of a battery holder 5 that freely houses multiple individual secondary battery cells 1. Alternatively, a circuit board 3 can be attached to the battery holder 5. Figures 3 to 10 In examples such as [examples omitted], the battery holder 5 vertically houses and holds multiple cylindrical secondary battery cells 1. The multiple secondary battery cells 1 are connected in series or parallel via lead plates 4, etc. The number of series connections and parallel connections can be arbitrarily set according to the required specifications. Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 10 In the example above, 72 secondary battery cells 1 are used in the first battery block 21 and the second battery block 22, respectively, and are arranged in a series connection of 3 x 24 parallel connections. In the third battery block 23, 192 secondary battery cells 1 are used and are arranged in a series connection of 8 x 24 parallel connections. However, the present invention is not limited to this structure. Any number of secondary battery cells can be used according to the required specifications, and any series or parallel connection can be achieved.

[0054] The battery holder 5 is equipped with multiple storage tubes 6 that separately store the individual secondary battery cells 1. Figure 9 , Figure 10In the example, the battery holder 5 is divided into two parts, each forming a storage tube 6, and the secondary battery cell 1 is stored in a clamping manner using the two-part storage tube 6. However, the present invention does not limit the battery holder to this structure; the battery holder can be divided into three or more parts, or it can be configured such that one end face of the battery holder is open for inserting the secondary battery cell. Such a battery holder 5 can be made of a resin such as polycarbonate with excellent insulating properties.

[0055] Additionally, battery retainer 5, such as Figure 9 As shown, the end face opening of the storage tube 6 has a connection window 7, which allows the end face 1a of the secondary battery cell 1 stored in the storage tube 6 to be connected from the outside of the battery holder 5 to the lead plate 4. The connection window 7 is formed to a size that allows a portion of the end face 1a of the cell to be exposed.

[0056] like Figure 2 As shown, the battery block 20 is connected to the circuit board 3. The circuit board 3 is equipped with a charge / discharge circuit for charging and discharging the secondary battery cells 1, a protection circuit for monitoring the voltage and temperature of the secondary battery cells 1 and cutting off the current in case of abnormalities, etc. The circuit board 3 is made of glass epoxy board or the like. Alternatively, a substrate holder can be provided to hold this circuit board 3. The substrate holder can be connected to the battery holder 5. Furthermore, a junction box 8 housing electrical components can be provided outside the circuit board 3. In this case, the battery block 20 is connected to the junction box 8 and connected to the circuit board 3 via the junction box 8. Figures 2-5 In the example, a junction box 8 is disposed on the upper surface of the first battery block 21. The junction box 8 includes protective circuit components such as current fuses, relays, and pre-charge resistors.

[0057] (Leaderboard 4)

[0058] The lead plate 4 connects the electrodes of the end face 1a of the secondary battery cell 1 to each other, and connects multiple secondary battery cells 1 in series and parallel. Figure 9 In this example, lead plates 4 are respectively disposed on each end face 1a of the secondary battery cell 1. Alternatively, each end face 1a of the cell can be divided into multiple lead plates 4. Each lead plate 4 is formed in the shape of a plate and connects the electrodes disposed on the end face 1a of the secondary battery cell 1 to each other.

[0059] These lead plates 4 are made of metal plates with excellent conductivity, such as aluminum plates or nickel plates. Additionally, a nickel coating may be applied to the surface of the lead plates 4 as needed. Furthermore, the lead plates 4 are fixed to the end face 1a of the secondary battery cell 1 using laser welding, spot welding, projection welding, or similar methods.

[0060] (Secondary battery cell 1)

[0061] Each secondary battery cell 1 can utilize secondary battery cells with a cylindrical or square shape. Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 10 In the example shown, the cylindrical secondary battery cells 1 are arranged in a vertical row with their axial direction aligned with the vertical direction. However, the number and arrangement of the secondary battery cells 1 are not limited to this example, and any number and arrangement can be used appropriately. For example, the cylindrical secondary battery cells can also be stacked in multiple layers. In addition, the multi-layered secondary battery cells can be arranged in an alternating vertical arrangement, or in a Go board pattern or matrix arrangement.

[0062] The cylindrical secondary battery cell 1 has a cell end face 1a on each of its two sides. The pair of cell end faces 1a consists of a first cell end face 1a1 and a second cell end face 1a2.

[0063] Each secondary battery cell 1 has positive and negative electrodes. The positive and negative electrodes are preferably located on the first end face 1a1 of the secondary battery cell 1. Known secondary batteries such as lithium-ion batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and nickel-cadmium batteries can be appropriately used in this type of secondary battery cell 1.

[0064] (Gas Discharge Section 1c)

[0065] Furthermore, each of the outer casings of the secondary battery cell 1 is provided with a gas discharge section 1c. The gas discharge section 1c releases the gas inside the outer casing to the outside when the internal pressure of the outer casing rises. The gas discharge section 1c is located on one side of the cell end face 1a of the secondary battery cell 1. Figure 11 In the example shown, the gas discharge section 1c is provided on the first cell end face 1a1, which serves as the positive electrode of the secondary battery cell 1. This gas discharge section 1c can be configured as a gas discharge valve that opens in response to an increase in the internal pressure of the outer can. Alternatively, it can be configured as a thin-walled section or a slit that breaks in response to an increase in the internal pressure of the outer can.

[0066] Multiple secondary battery cells 1 are arranged such that their end faces 1a are aligned on the same plane and held in the storage tube 6 of the battery holder 5. Furthermore, the areas where the first cell end faces 1a1 are aligned on the same plane are grouped together. This configuration defines the area where high-temperature, high-pressure gases may be discharged from the secondary battery cells 1, and also defines the area for the placement of the refractory sheet 70 (described later). Additionally, by concentrating the areas where gases are discharged, a gas discharge path that guides the gas towards the housing-side discharge hole 13 can be easily defined within the outer casing 10.

[0067] On the other hand, the outer casing 10 has a casing-side discharge port formed in a portion for releasing high-pressure gas to the outside when the high-pressure gas is discharged through the gas discharge section 1c of the secondary battery cell 1. The casing-side discharge port is formed, for example, in the first casing 11 and the cover 14. In addition to being rectangular, the casing-side discharge port can also be a chamfered rectangle, an octagon, a hexagon, a quadrilateral or other polygonal shape, a circle, a racetrack shape, an ellipse or the like.

[0068] (First battery block 21, second battery block 22, third battery block 23)

[0069] Each battery block 20 has a pair of main faces 24 and end faces 25 intersecting the pair of main faces 24. Each main face 24 is rectangular in shape. Furthermore, each battery block 20 is as follows... Figure 6 As shown, through holes 26 are formed through a pair of main blocks 24, with the end faces of the through holes 26 opening onto each main block 24. Thus, each main block 24 is arranged in an orientation intersecting the connecting axis 50. The first direction is a direction orthogonal to the connecting axis 50. Figure 6 In the example, the first direction is consistent with the extension direction of the rectangular shape of each block main face 24 (the left and right direction in the figure).

[0070] exist Figure 5 In the example, the multiple battery blocks 20 consist of three battery blocks 20, which are sequentially designated as the first battery block 21, the second battery block 22, and the third battery block 23 from top to bottom. It should be noted that the number of battery blocks 20 can also be 2 or more. When there are two battery blocks, sometimes the structure makes it impossible to ensure a heat conduction path to the outside. In this case, the heat dissipation structure using heat sinks and heat pipes becomes effective.

[0071] The main surface 24 of the lower surface of the first battery block 21 is arranged in an overlapping manner with the main surface 24 of the upper surface of the second battery block 22. The main surfaces 24 of the first battery block 21 and the second battery block 22 are set to be approximately the same size and shape. On the other hand, the main surface 24 of the third battery block 23 is formed to be larger than the main surface 24 of the second battery block 22.

[0072] (Heat sink 30)

[0073] Furthermore, among the multiple battery blocks 20, the interfaces between adjacent battery blocks 20 are as follows: Figures 5-10 Heat sinks 30 are respectively clamped as shown. Each heat sink 30 has a plate opening 32 at a position opposite to the end face of the through hole 26. These heat sinks 30 are made of a material with excellent thermal conductivity, such as aluminum, copper, iron, or SUS. Figures 5-6 In the example, aluminum sheet is used.

[0074] In addition, Figures 3-9 In this example, although it is not the interface between the battery blocks, a heat sink 30 is provided on the upper surface of the first battery block 21. A junction box 8 is provided on the upper surface of the first battery block 21, and the junction box 8 becomes a heat source. Therefore, by clamping the heat sink 30, heat dissipation can also be improved at this interface.

[0075] (40 heat pipes)

[0076] In each block through hole 26, as shown Figures 3 to 11 The heat sinks 40 are inserted as shown, each heat sink 40 being formed as a pipe and having a through-hole 42 inside. The heat sinks 40 are preferably arranged in the same orientation as the cylindrical secondary battery cells 1. In this embodiment, at the center of each battery block 20, the through-hole 26 is used to insert each heat sink 40 into the storage tube 6 of the battery holder 5 of each battery block 20 that does not contain a secondary battery cell 1, and it is not covered by the lead plate 4. Thus, the heat sinks 40 can be arranged in a way that does not obstruct the battery block 20. Materials with excellent thermal conductivity, such as aluminum, copper, iron, and SUS, can be used in these heat sinks 40. It is preferable to use the same material as the heat sink 30 to construct the heat sinks 40.

[0077] (Connecting axis 50)

[0078] A connecting shaft 50 is inserted into the through-hole 42 of the heat sink 40. Multiple battery blocks 20 arranged in a multi-level stack are connected using the connecting shaft 50. Specifically, heat sinks 40 are inserted into the through-hole 26 of each battery block 20. In this state, as... Figures 3 to 11 As shown, multiple battery blocks 20 are stacked in a multi-level manner with heat sinks 30 sandwiched between the interfaces of adjacent battery blocks 20. In this case, the individual heat sinks 40 of each battery block 20 are coaxial, as shown... Figure 11 As shown, the heat dissipation pipes 40 on the back of the heat sink 30 are arranged coaxially, meaning that the through-holes 42 of the heat dissipation pipes 40 on the back are connected through the respective plate openings 32. In this state, connecting shafts 50 are inserted into a series of through-holes 42, and the front ends of the connecting shafts 50 are fastened to the outer housing 10 to connect multiple battery blocks 20. In this state, the heat dissipation pipes 40 and the heat sink 30 are thermally coupled while the multiple battery blocks 20 are connected by the connecting shafts 50. That is, the mechanical connection of the battery blocks 20 and the structure for heat dissipation can be achieved simultaneously. As a result, as Figure 12As shown, the heat-generating interior of the battery pack 20 and the interfaces between the battery packs 20 can be efficiently cooled via the heat pipe 40 and heat sink 30, which are thermally coupled. The connecting shaft 50 is designed to be long enough to connect the multi-layered battery packs 20. Furthermore, a thread is formed at the front end of the connecting shaft 50. Moreover, the connecting shaft 50 is made of a material with sufficient rigidity. Figures 5-10 Examples of such materials include stainless steel, molybdenum steel, steel, and iron.

[0079] In battery packs composed of multiple secondary battery cells, when a large number of cells are used, multiple battery blocks connected to these cells are sometimes stacked to form a core. In this structure, a design is required to efficiently dissipate heat from each secondary battery cell. In this case, battery blocks located at the upper or lower levels in a multi-level stacked structure have no battery blocks on one side, making heat dissipation easier. Conversely, battery blocks located in the middle have battery blocks on two sides, making heat accumulation more likely. Therefore, certain heat dissipation mechanisms are needed, but there are concerns that adding such mechanisms would lead to larger battery blocks, more complex structures, and increased costs. Furthermore, in a multi-level stacked structure, the connection strength between battery blocks is also required, necessitating a fixing structure.

[0080] Therefore, in the battery package 100 of this embodiment, heat dissipation pipes 40 are arranged within each battery block 20, and heat dissipation plates 30 are arranged at the interfaces of the battery blocks 20. A long connecting shaft 50 thermally couples the heat dissipation pipes 40 and the heat dissipation plates 30. This achieves a heat dissipation structure that efficiently conducts and dissipates heat from the inside of the battery blocks 20. Furthermore, a fixing structure is also implemented where the connecting shaft 50 passes through the stacking direction of the multi-layered battery blocks 20. Thus, the heat dissipation structure and the fixing structure can be implemented using a common structure that utilizes the heat dissipation plates 30, heat dissipation pipes 40, and connecting shafts 50. Additionally, by sandwiching a thinner heat dissipation plate 30, the size of the battery package 100 can be avoided. Moreover, by arranging the heat dissipation pipes 40 in the same orientation as the secondary battery cells 1, the heat dissipation pipes 40 can be added within the battery blocks 20 without obstruction, thus preventing the battery package 100 from becoming too large. In addition, the second housing 12 is made of a material with high thermal conductivity and is thermally coupled to the heat dissipation structure, thereby further improving heat dissipation.

[0081] Each battery block 20 can embed a heat sink 40 in multiple different locations. The main surface 24 of the block is formed into a rectangular or trapezoidal shape that extends along a first direction and is chamfered, and is formed along a direction orthogonal to the connecting axis 50. The first direction is a direction orthogonal to the connecting axis 50, and is preferably the direction of the long side of the main surface 24 when each battery block 20 is a chamfered rectangular shape as in the embodiment. Figures 5-8 In the example, the first battery block 21 and the second battery block 22 are configured such that the widths of the first and second directions, which are orthogonal to the connecting axis 50 and mutually orthogonal, are different, and the width of the first direction in the horizontal direction is longer than the width of the second direction in the vertical direction. In these first battery blocks 21 and second battery blocks 22, the block through-holes 26 for arranging heat dissipation pipes 40 are spaced apart along the first direction. By arranging multiple heat dissipation pipes 40 spaced apart along the long side in this way, even a slender battery block 20 can achieve near-uniform cooling capacity by dissipating heat from each of the heat dissipation pipes 40 arranged along the long side.

[0082] Alternatively, the block through-hole 26 can be arranged separately along a second direction intersecting the first direction. Figures 5-8 In the example, multiple through holes 26 are also arranged alternately along the short side of the first battery block 21 and the second battery block 22. Here, in the figure, the through holes 26 are provided on the back side of the battery block 20. In this way, through holes 26 are also formed on the externally facing portion of each battery block 20, which enables efficient cooling from the surface of the battery block 20.

[0083] It should be noted that the third battery block 23 houses more secondary battery cells 1 than the first battery block 21 and the second battery block 22, and its width is aligned with that of the first battery block 21 and the second battery block 22, thus forming a shape that protrudes forward more. That is, unlike the first battery block 21 and the second battery block 22, the first direction of the third battery block 23 is the direction of its shorter side (in...). Figure 5 The left and right directions are equal, and the second direction becomes the long side direction (in the middle). Figure 5 (The front-to-back direction is shown in the image). However, in the area protruding forward, the first battery block 21 and the second battery block 22 are not present on the upper surface, thus heat dissipation from the upper surface of the third battery block 23 is also achieved. Additionally, as... Figure 3 , Figure 5 As shown, the heat sink 30, positioned at the interface between the second battery block 22 and the third battery block 23, extends its front surface to include the area where the second battery block 22 is not located, and covers the upper surface of the third battery block 23, thereby improving heat dissipation from the upper surface. Furthermore, the lower half of the third battery block 23, as shown... Figure 2 , Figure 3As shown, the battery is housed in the second housing 12, and by making the second housing 12 metal, heat dissipation from the lower surface is also achieved. Therefore, in the third battery block 23, a block through hole 26 is provided only in the area behind the stacked first battery block 21 and second battery block 22 to promote additional heat dissipation based on the heat dissipation structure utilizing the heat sink 30 and heat pipe 40.

[0084] Furthermore, at least a portion of the outer housing 10 is made of metal and thermally coupled to the core block 2, thereby further improving heat dissipation. Specifically, the second housing 12 constituting the outer housing 10 is made of metal and is tightly connected to the connecting shaft 50 in a thermally coupled state to the heat dissipation pipe 40 exposed at the end face of the block through hole 26 on the block main surface 24, which is the bottom surface of the core block 2. This allows the connecting shaft 50 to be tightly connected to the thermally conductive second housing 12, and heat can be conducted to the second housing 12 side via the heat dissipation pipe 40, further improving heat dissipation. Therefore, a threaded boss 16 is formed in the second housing 12 for fastening the front end of the connecting shaft 50. The threaded boss 16 is as follows: Figure 12 As shown, the end face around the threaded hole abuts against the opening end of the heat dissipation pipe 40, which surrounds the front end of the connecting shaft 50, on the bottom surface of the core block 2. Thus, by fastening the connecting shaft 50 to the threaded boss 16, the opening end of the heat dissipation pipe 40 is thermally coupled to the end face of the threaded boss 16, forming a heat dissipation path HP from the heat dissipation pipe 40 to the second housing 12.

[0085] (Heat sink 60)

[0086] Additionally, the battery cell 2 may also include a heat sink 60. The heat sink 60 is disposed at the interface between the heat sink 30 and the main surface 24 of the battery cell 20. The heat sink 60 is made of a material with high thermal conductivity. Furthermore, the heat sink 60 is preferably flexible. Thus, as... Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 By clamping the flexible heat sink 60 at the interface between the heat sink 30 and the battery block 20 as shown, gaps are avoided at these interfaces, thereby improving thermal coupling and thermal conductivity. In particular, when heat sinks and battery holders, which are both rigid components, are directly stacked, there is a concern that gaps may easily form at the interfaces, resulting in a thermal insulation effect due to the formation of air layers, thus degrading thermal conductivity. Therefore, by clamping the flexible heat sink 60 at the interface where the rigid components meet, the formation of such air layers is avoided, thereby improving thermal coupling.

[0087] Furthermore, the heat sink 60 is preferably insulating. This prevents unwanted continuity in conductive components such as the lead plate 4. In other words, the heat sink 60 can also function as an insulator between the conductive heat sink 30 (made of metal, etc.) and the battery block 20. In such a heat sink 60, silicone resin, polyimide resin, acrylic resin, etc., containing a highly thermally conductive filler material, can be used.

[0088] (Refractory sheet 70)

[0089] Additionally, the battery cell 2 may also include a fire-resistant sheet 70. Preferably, the fire-resistant sheet 70 is positioned at the interface between the heat sink 30 and the main surface 24 of the battery cell 20, where it does not overlap with the heat sink 60. Therefore, even if a secondary battery cell 1 in a battery cell 20 catches fire, the fire-resistant sheet 70 can be used to suppress the spread of flames to the opposite side of the battery cell 20 across the heat sink 30, thus improving safety. This fire-resistant sheet 70 is made of materials such as silica and mica.

[0090] Furthermore, the refractory sheet 70 is only disposed in the area opposite the end face 1a1 of the first cell with the gas exhaust section among the multiple secondary battery cells 1. That is, between the heat sink 30 and the main surface 24 of the battery block 20, such as Figure 11 As shown, a refractory sheet 70 is arranged in the area opposite to the first unit end face 1a1, and a heat sink 60 is arranged in the area opposite to the second unit end face 1a2. The refractory sheet 70 has low thermal conductivity due to its heat resistance, while the heat sink 60 has high thermal conductivity, thus exhibiting opposite characteristics. By arranging these sheets separately, a state is achieved in which the function of each sheet can be effectively utilized.

[0091] Furthermore, these refractory sheets 70 and heat sinks 60 are preferably disposed on both sides of the heat sink 30. This allows for improved heat dissipation of the battery block 20 and enhanced safety during gas release on both the upper and lower surfaces of the heat sink 30.

[0092] Furthermore, the heat sink 60 and the fire-resistant sheet 70 allow the portion where the heat sink 40 is mounted to have an opening or bypass it. Bypassing refers to partially cutting off or recessing the end shape to avoid the heat sink 60 and the fire-resistant sheet 70 being sandwiched at the interface between the heat sink 40 and the heat sink 30. This prevents the heat sink 60 and the fire-resistant sheet 70 from obstructing thermal coupling at the interface between the heat sink 40 and the heat sink 30.

[0093] (Step 44)

[0094] Additionally, it is preferable that the end face of the heat pipe 40 is as follows: Figure 11The step 44 is formed as shown. This prevents the heat sink 60 and the refractory sheet 70 from obstructing thermal coupling at the interface between the heat sink 40 and the heat sink 30. Alternatively, the heat sink 60 and the refractory sheet 70 can be fixed and positioned by being clamped into the step 44 surface of the heat sink 40.

[0095] (Bus line 80)

[0096] Furthermore, the lead plate 4 disposed on the main surface 24 of the battery block is connected to other lead plates 4 via busbars 80. In the structure in which a heat sink 30 is sandwiched between battery blocks 20, the heat sink 30 obstructs the electrical connection between the battery blocks 20. In order to make the battery blocks 20 electrically connected over the heat sink 30, it is also considered to provide holes in the heat sink 30 locally and make the lead plates 4 electrically connected to each other through the holes. However, in this case, there is no heat sink 30 in the part where the holes are provided, so there is a problem of reduced heat dissipation in that area. Therefore, in the battery package 100 of this embodiment, by distributing the busbars 80 connecting the lead plates 4 to each other on the outer edge of the heat sink 30, the electrical connection between the battery blocks 20 is achieved at the interface where the heat sink 30 is disposed when the battery blocks 20 are stacked.

[0097] exist Figure 13 The diagram illustrates the electrical connection between battery blocks 20 around the heat sink 30 via the busbar 80. The diagram also shows the connection of the lead plate 4A of the first battery block 21 to the lead plate 4 of the second battery block 22. It should be noted that, for illustrative purposes, the first battery block 21 is omitted from the diagram; only the lead plate 4A connected to the first battery block 21 is shown. The lead plate 4A has an opening for connecting to the busbar 80 via a threaded hole 4A1. The busbar 80 is formed by bending a strip of metal. Furthermore, the lead plate 4A of the first battery block 21 and the lead plate 4 of the second battery block 22 are connected to both ends of the busbar 80, and therefore, a first connection hole 81 and a second connection hole 82 are respectively provided at each end. Moreover, in order to connect the lead plate 4A of the first battery block 21, which has a height difference, to the lead plate 4 of the second battery block 22, the busbar 80 is bent at two points with an inclined surface in the middle, so that the two ends of the busbar 80 have different heights. The busbar 80 aligns the threaded hole 4A1 of the lead plate 4A of the first battery block 21 with the first connecting hole 81, and aligns the threaded hole 4A1 of the lead plate 4 of the second battery block 22 with the second connecting hole 82, and is then screwed together using screws. Furthermore, the threaded boss 16 of the battery holder 5 of the first battery block 21 overlaps below the first connecting hole 81 of the lead plate 4. At this time, by also overlapping the threaded boss 16 of the battery holder 5 of the second battery block 22 below the threaded boss 16 of the first battery block 21, the first battery block 21 and the second battery block 22 can also be screwed together using common screws.

[0098] In addition, Figure 13 In this example, a notch 34 is formed at the end edge of the heat sink 30. A busbar 80 is disposed in this notch 34. This allows the busbar 80 to be easily positioned and disposed at the end edge of the lead plate 4. In particular, by forming the notch 34 at the corner of the heat sink 30, the screws that engage the lead plate 4 and the busbar 80 can be made common to the components that connect the battery blocks 20, thus achieving both physical bonding and electrical connection between the battery blocks 20.

[0099] (Collapse board 90)

[0100] Furthermore, the battery block 20 can also overlap the lead plate 4 with a metal current collector 90 that is thicker than the lead plate 4. When the lead plate 4 is thinner, the resistance increases, and the heat generation also increases. In particular, the larger the current, the greater the heat generation. On the other hand, when the lead plate 4 is thicker, the processability deteriorates. Therefore, by stacking a metal current collector 90 that is thicker than the lead plate 4 outside the lead plate 4, it is possible to create a structure that reduces resistance and can withstand high current. In addition, by increasing the thickness of the lead plate 4 through the stacking of this current collector 90, the tight connection resulting from the screwing with the busbar 80 is also effectively strengthened. Figure 13 The example shows the current collector 90 state where the lead plate 4A of the first battery block 21 and the lead plate 4 of the second battery block 22 overlap. Figure 13 In the process, current collectors 90 are stacked on the back side of the lead plate 4A of the first battery block 21 and on the surface side of the lead plate 4 of the second battery block 22.

[0101] In the examples above, an example of using a battery package as a power source for an electric scooter was described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the battery package can also be fitted into an electrical device that is driven, for other purposes of powering the electrical device. Examples of electrical devices include electric vehicles, electric carts, and other mobile or portable electrical devices. In such electrical devices, when the remaining capacity of the battery package is low or the battery package deteriorates over time, the battery package can be replaced and the electrical device can continue to be used. However, the present invention is not limited to a replaceable battery package that mainly houses secondary battery cells; it can also be applied to a scheme in which secondary battery cells are housed within the casing of an electrical device. In the present invention, it is sufficient for the battery package to house only secondary battery cells within the casing; a structure in which secondary battery cells for driving are built into the casing of the electrical device itself is also included in the battery package. That is, the present invention is not limited to replaceable battery packages, and can also be applied to electrical devices that house secondary battery cells.

[0102] Industrial applicability

[0103] The battery package of the present invention can be appropriately used as a power source for driving mobile devices such as electric scooters, electric carts, and electric bicycles. It can also be appropriately used as a power source for portable electrical devices such as wireless devices, electric cleaners, and power tools. Alternatively, it can be appropriately used as a backup power source for servers, or as a fixed-installation energy storage device for home, office, or factory use.

[0104] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0105] 100 Battery Package

[0106] 1. Secondary battery cell

[0107] 1a Monomer end face

[0108] 1a1 First monomer end face

[0109] 1a2 Second monomer end face

[0110] 1c Gas Exhaust Section

[0111] 2 cores

[0112] 3 Circuit board

[0113] 4. Leadspan

[0114] 4A First battery block 21 lead plate

[0115] 4A1 lead wire threaded hole

[0116] 5 Battery retainer

[0117] 6 Storage Cylinders

[0118] 7 Connecting Window

[0119] 8 Junction Boxes

[0120] 10. External housing

[0121] 11 First Shell

[0122] 12 Second shell

[0123] 14 cover

[0124] 16 Threaded boss

[0125] 20 battery blocks

[0126] 21 First battery block

[0127] 22 Second battery pack

[0128] 23 Third battery block

[0129] 24 main faces

[0130] 25 end faces

[0131] 26 through holes

[0132] 30 Heat sink

[0133] 32 Plate opening holes

[0134] 40 heat pipes

[0135] 42 Pipe through-hole

[0136] 44 steps

[0137] 50 Connecting shaft

[0138] 60 heatsink

[0139] 70 refractory sheet

[0140] 80 busbars

[0141] 81 First connecting hole

[0142] 82 Second connecting hole

[0143] 90 collector board

[0144] HP heat dissipation path.

Claims

1. A battery package, wherein, The battery package includes: Multiple battery blocks, each comprising multiple secondary battery cells, wherein each battery block has a pair of main blocks and end blocks intersecting the pair of main blocks, and the end blocks of through holes penetrating the pair of main blocks are respectively open on the pair of main blocks. A heat sink is disposed between the main surfaces of adjacent battery blocks and the main surfaces of the adjacent battery blocks, and has openings at positions opposite to the end faces of the through holes of the blocks. A heat pipe is inserted into a through hole in a block and has a through port inside. as well as A connecting shaft is configured so that the heat dissipation pipes are coaxially arranged on the front and back of the heat dissipation plate, respectively, and connected through the opening holes of the plate via the tube through-holes on the back of the plate. The connecting shaft is inserted into the tube through-holes of the adjacent battery blocks, and the adjacent battery blocks are connected to the heat dissipation plate in a state of thermal coupling between the heat dissipation pipes and the heat dissipation plate via the heat dissipation pipes of the adjacent battery blocks.

2. The battery package according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of battery blocks are arranged with the pair of main faces orthogonal to the connecting axis. The block through hole is one of a plurality of block through holes that are spaced apart on the pair of block main faces in a direction orthogonal to the connecting axis.

3. The battery package according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of battery blocks make the block through-hole one of a plurality of block through-holes that open apart from each other along the end edges of the pair of block main faces.

4. The battery package according to claim 1, wherein, The heat sink and heat pipes are both made of metal.

5. The battery package according to claim 1, wherein, The battery package also includes a thermally conductive outer casing that houses the core block formed by combining the multiple battery blocks. The outer housing is securely connected to the connecting shaft in a state of thermal coupling contact with the heat dissipation pipe exposed at the end face of the through hole of the block on one of the pair of main blocks constituting one side of the core block.

6. The battery package according to claim 5, wherein, The outer casing is divided into a first casing and a second casing. The second housing has a threaded boss that abuts against the front end of the connecting shaft and the open end of the heat dissipation pipe that surrounds the front end of the connecting shaft.

7. The battery package according to claim 6, wherein, The second housing is a metal housing.

8. The battery package according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of battery blocks include: First battery pack; A second battery block is disposed on the main surface of the first battery block; and The third battery block is disposed on the main surface of the second battery block. The main surface of the third battery block is larger than the main surface of the second battery block.

9. The battery package according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The battery package also includes a heat sink disposed at the interface between the heat sink and the main surface of the battery block, and has insulation and flexibility.

10. The battery package according to claim 9, wherein, The battery package also includes a fire-resistant sheet disposed at the interface between the heat sink and the main surface of the battery block, in a position that does not overlap with the heat sink when viewed from above, and which is fire-resistant.

11. The battery package according to claim 10, wherein, Each of the plurality of secondary battery cells has a gas discharge section on one of its pair of end faces for discharging gas when the internal pressure rises. The refractory sheet is positioned opposite one of the end faces of the unit.

12. The battery package according to claim 10, wherein, The battery package has a step on the end face of the heat sink. The heat sink and the fire-resistant sheet will have openings or bypasses the locations where the heat pipe is disposed.

13. The battery package according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The battery package also includes: Lead plates, respectively disposed on the pair of main surfaces, connect the plurality of secondary battery cells; and A busbar is connected to the lead plate at the outer edge of the heat sink.

14. The battery package according to claim 13, wherein, The heat sink has a notch at its end edge. The busbar is configured in the notch of the plate.

15. The battery package according to claim 13, wherein, The battery package also includes a metal current collector that is stacked with the lead plate and is thicker than the lead plate. The battery package connects the busbar to the current collector.

16. The battery package according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The battery package arranges the heat dissipation pipes parallel to the axes of the plurality of secondary battery cells.

Images