Battery module

Abstract

The utility model provides a battery module. In the battery module provided with a light sensor, the detection precision of light generated when a battery fails is improved. A battery module (1) is provided with a lead plate (20) and an optical sensor (40) that are electrically connected to a plurality of batteries (10). The lead plate (20) is provided with: a plate-shaped main body part (21) in which a plurality of through holes (21a) that overlap the terminals (11) of the battery (10) in a planar view are disposed; and a plurality of tab parts (22). The tab section (22) is provided with: a plate-shaped first tab section (23) which is positioned further inward than the peripheral edge of the through-hole (21a) when the main body section (21) is viewed in a planar view, and which is electrically connected to the terminal (11); and a second tab section (24) that electrically connects the first tab section (23) and the main body section (21). The second tab section (24) has a shape protruding from the main body section (21) toward the opposite side from the battery (10) side. The light sensor (40) is located on the opposite side of the main body (21) from the battery (10).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to battery modules. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a battery module as an example, comprising multiple battery cells, multiple fuses that melt in the event of a short circuit between the anode and cathode of a battery cell, and a photodetector that detects the light generated when the fuses melt. When the photodetector detects light, it detects a fault in the battery cell corresponding to the melted fuse.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-29826

[0004] However, it is believed that it is difficult to detect the light generated when a cell (battery) malfunctions by using a photodetector, depending on the different positional relationships between multiple fuses and the photodetector (photosensor). Utility Model Content

[0005] This disclosure was made in view of the above circumstances, and its purpose is to improve the detection accuracy of light generated when the battery fails in a battery module equipped with a light sensor.

[0006] The battery module disclosed herein includes: a plurality of batteries having terminals; a lead plate disposed opposite to the terminals of the batteries and electrically connected to each of the plurality of batteries; and a light sensor. The lead plate integrally includes: a plate-shaped main body portion having a plurality of through holes that overlap with the terminals of the batteries when viewed in a planar view; and a plurality of contact portions, each of the plurality of contact portions having: a plate-shaped first contact portion located further inward than the periphery of the through holes when viewed in a planar view of the main body portion and electrically connected to the terminals of the batteries; and a second contact portion electrically connected to the first contact portion and the main body portion, a first end of the second contact portion being electrically connected to a portion of the periphery of the first contact portion, a second end of the second contact portion being electrically connected to a portion of the periphery of the through holes, and the second contact portion having a shape that protrudes from the main body portion toward a side opposite to the battery side. The light sensor is located on the side opposite to the batteries when viewed from the side of the main body portion.

[0007] Preferably, the cross-sectional area of ​​the second connector portion, which is orthogonal to the extension direction of the second connector portion, is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the first connector portion along the thickness direction.

[0008] Preferably, the second tab portion is a U-shaped cross-section that protrudes from the main body portion toward the side opposite to the battery side and opens the battery side.

[0009] Preferably, when one of the plurality of second contact portions is observed from the optical sensor, the protruding end of the one second contact portion does not overlap with other second contact portions other than the one second contact portion among the plurality of second contact portions.

[0010] Preferably, the plurality of second contact portions include two second contact portions at different distances from the light sensor, wherein the protrusion height of the second contact portion at a longer distance from the light sensor is higher than the protrusion height of the second contact portion at a shorter distance from the light sensor.

[0011] Preferably, when the main body is viewed in a plane, the plurality of the tabs are arranged in a matrix along the row and column directions, and the protrusion height of the plurality of second tabs increases as they move away from the light sensor in the column direction.

[0012] Preferably, the protrusion heights of the plurality of second connectors included in the plurality of connectors in the same row of the plurality of connectors are equal to each other.

[0013] Preferably, the protrusion height of the plurality of second tabs increases as they move away from the light sensor in the row direction.

[0014] Preferably, the plurality of second connectors included in the plurality of connectors in the same column of the plurality of connectors are located at different positions in the row direction.

[0015] Preferably, the protrusion heights of the plurality of second tabs are equal to each other.

[0016] Preferably, when the main body is viewed in a plane, the light sensor is located further outward in the column direction than the plurality of second tabs.

[0017] Preferably, when the main body is viewed in a plane, the light sensor is located in the center of the main body.

[0018] Preferably, the plurality of the bonding portions include the bonding portion having one first bonding portion and a plurality of second bonding portions.

[0019] Preferably, the main body comprises: a first portion corresponding to one or more of the plurality of batteries; and a second portion separate from the first portion and corresponding to one or more of the plurality of batteries other than the battery electrically connected to the first portion.

[0020] Preferably, the second tab portion has a notch at its protruding end.

[0021] Utility Model Effect

[0022] According to this disclosure, in a battery module equipped with a light sensor, the detection accuracy of light generated when the battery malfunctions can be improved. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the battery module according to the first embodiment of this disclosure.

[0024] Figure 2 It is observed along the X direction. Figure 1 The side view of the battery module shown.

[0025] Figure 3 It is observed along the Y direction. Figure 1 The side view of the battery module shown.

[0026] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 The three-dimensional view of the splicing part is shown.

[0027] Figure 5 It is shown Figure 3 The diagram shows the cross-sectional shape of the connector portion.

[0028] Figure 6 It is observed along the column direction. Figure 3 The side view of the lead plate shown.

[0029] Figure 7 This is a side view of the battery module involved in the first variation of the first embodiment of this disclosure when viewed along the Y direction.

[0030] Figure 8 It is observed along the column direction. Figure 7 The side view of the lead plate shown.

[0031] Figure 9A This is a side view of the lead plate of the battery module according to the second variation of the first embodiment of this disclosure, viewed along the column direction. It is a diagram in which the plurality of second contact portions included in the plurality of contact portions in the first row are represented by solid lines, and the other plurality of second contact portions are represented by dashed lines.

[0032] Figure 9B yes Figure 9A The side view of the lead plate shown is a diagram in which the second row of the multiple second contact sections is represented by solid lines, and the other multiple second contact sections are represented by dashed lines.

[0033] Figure 9C yes Figure 9AThe side view of the lead plate shown is a diagram in which the multiple second connectors included in the third row of multiple second connectors are represented by solid lines, and the other multiple second connectors are represented by dashed lines.

[0034] Figure 9D yes Figure 9A The side view of the lead plate shown is a diagram in which the multiple second connectors included in the fourth row of multiple second connectors are represented by solid lines, and the other multiple second connectors are represented by dashed lines.

[0035] Figure 10 This is a side view of the battery module according to the second embodiment of this disclosure when viewed along the Y direction.

[0036] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 A three-dimensional view of the connector section of the lead plate shown.

[0037] Figure 12 It is observed along the column direction. Figure 10 The side view of the lead plate shown.

[0038] Figure 13 This is a side view of the battery module according to the second embodiment of this disclosure when viewed along the Y direction.

[0039] Figure 14 It is observed along the column direction. Figure 13 The side view of the lead plate shown.

[0040] Figure 15 This is a side view of the battery module according to the third embodiment of this disclosure when viewed along the Y direction.

[0041] Figure 16 It is observed along the column direction. Figure 15 The side view of the lead plate shown.

[0042] Figure 17A This is a side view of the lead plate of the battery module according to a modified example of the third embodiment of this disclosure, viewed along the column direction. It is a diagram in which the plurality of second contact portions included in the plurality of contact portions in the first row are represented by solid lines, and the other plurality of second contact portions are represented by dashed lines.

[0043] Figure 17B yes Figure 17A The side view of the lead plate shown is a diagram in which the multiple second connectors included in the multiple connectors in the second row are represented by solid lines, and the other multiple second connectors are represented by dashed lines.

[0044] Figure 17C yes Figure 17AThe side view of the lead plate shown is a diagram in which the multiple second connectors included in the multiple connectors in the third row are represented by solid lines, and the other multiple second connectors are represented by dashed lines.

[0045] Figure 17D yes Figure 17A The side view of the lead plate shown is a diagram in which the multiple second connectors included in the multiple connectors in the fourth row are represented by solid lines, and the other multiple second connectors are represented by dashed lines.

[0046] Figure 18 This is a side view of the battery module according to the fourth embodiment of this disclosure when viewed along the Y direction.

[0047] Figure 19 It is observed along the X direction. Figure 18 The side view of the battery module shown.

[0048] Figure 20A Observed from the optical sensor along the column direction Figure 18 The side view shown is of the lead plate and illustrates the multiple second connectors included in the multiple connectors in rows 3 and 4.

[0049] Figure 20B Observed from the optical sensor along the column direction Figure 19 The side view shown is of the lead plate and illustrates the multiple second connectors included in the multiple connectors in rows 1 and 2.

[0050] Figure 21 This is a side view of the battery module according to the fourth embodiment of this disclosure when viewed along the Y direction.

[0051] Figure 22A Observed from the optical sensor along the column direction Figure 21 The side view shown is of the lead plate and illustrates the multiple second connectors included in the multiple connectors in rows 3 and 4.

[0052] Figure 22B Observed from the optical sensor along the column direction Figure 21 The side view shown is of the lead plate and illustrates the multiple second connectors included in the multiple connectors in rows 1 and 2.

[0053] Figure 23 This is a side view of the battery module involved in the second variation of the fourth embodiment of this disclosure when viewed along the Y direction.

[0054] Figure 24A Observed from the optical sensor along the column direction Figure 23 The side view of the lead plate shown is a diagram illustrating the multiple second contact group groups included in the multiple contact sections of rows 3 and 4.

[0055] Figure 24B Observed from the optical sensor along the column direction Figure 23 The side view shown is of the lead plate and illustrates the multiple second contact group included in the multiple contact sections of the first and second rows.

[0056] Figure 25 This is a side view of the battery module according to the fifth embodiment of this disclosure when viewed along the Y direction.

[0057] Figure 26 yes Figure 25 A magnified view of a portion of the battery module shown.

[0058] Figure 27 It is observed along the column direction. Figure 25 The side view of the lead plate shown.

[0059] Figure 28 This is a side view of the battery module according to the fifth embodiment of this disclosure when viewed along the Y direction.

[0060] Figure 29 This is a side view of the battery module according to the sixth embodiment of this disclosure when viewed along the Y direction.

[0061] Figure 30 This is a side view of the battery module involved in the modified example of the sixth embodiment of this disclosure when viewed along the Y direction.

[0062] Figure 31A This is a perspective view of the battery module according to the seventh embodiment of this disclosure, viewed from the +Y side.

[0063] Figure 31B Viewed from the -Y side Figure 31A The image shows a 3D view of the battery module.

[0064] Figure 32 This is a perspective view of the contact portion of a battery module according to other variations of the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0065] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0066] 1 Battery module; 10 Battery; 11 Terminal; 11a Positive terminal; 11b Negative terminal; 20 Lead plate; 21 Main body; 21a Through hole; 22 Connecting part; 23 First connecting part; 24 Second connecting part; 30 Control board; 40 Optical sensor; 1421ca, 1421cb First part; 1421da, 1421db Second part; 1524b Notch; H Protrusion height; T Protruding end; TP Protruding end. Detailed Implementation

[0067] The embodiments will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that this disclosure is not limited to these embodiments. The embodiments are examples, and of course, partial substitutions or combinations of the configurations shown in different embodiments are possible.

[0068] In the attached diagram, the X direction corresponds to the width of battery module 1, the Y direction corresponds to the depth of battery module 1, and the Z direction corresponds to the height of battery module 1. The X, Y, and Z directions are orthogonal to each other. Furthermore, in the X direction, the side indicated by the arrow is designated as the +X side, and the side opposite to the +X side is designated as the -X side. In the Y direction, the side indicated by the arrow is designated as the +Y side, and the side opposite to the +Y side is designated as the -Y side. In the Z direction, the side indicated by the arrow is designated as the +Z side, and the side opposite to the +Z side is designated as the -Z side. It should be noted that the X, Y, and Z directions are examples, and this disclosure is not limited to these directions.

[0069] <First Implementation Method>

[0070] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the battery module 1 according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 2 It is observed along the X direction. Figure 1 The side view of battery module 1 shown. Battery module 1 can be used as a power source for external devices such as electronic devices, electric vehicles, and power tools (not shown).

[0071] The battery module 1 includes multiple batteries 10, lead plates 20, control base plates 30, and light sensors 40.

[0072] Battery 10 is, for example, a secondary battery such as a lithium-ion battery. Battery 10 is cylindrical in shape. Battery 10 has a positive terminal 11a (equivalent to a "terminal") and a negative terminal 11b (equivalent to a "terminal") on its end face. Hereinafter, when describing the positive terminal 11a and the negative terminal 11b without distinguishing between them, they will be referred to as "terminal 11". It should be noted that the battery 10 included in battery module 1 can also be a battery other than a secondary battery.

[0073] Multiple batteries 10 are arranged side by side. The central axes CL of the multiple batteries 10 are parallel to each other. In this first embodiment, the central axis CL of the battery 10 is along the Y direction. The multiple batteries 10 are arranged with the orientation of the positive terminal 11a and the orientation of the negative terminal 11b predetermined. In this first embodiment, the multiple batteries 10 are connected in parallel.

[0074] In this first embodiment, a plurality of batteries 10 are arranged in a matrix along the X and Z directions. Furthermore, the number of batteries 10 is 20. Five batteries 10 are arranged along the X direction, and four batteries 10 are arranged along the Z direction. It should be noted that the number and arrangement of the batteries 10 are not limited to the above-described numbers and arrangements.

[0075] The lead plate 20 is positioned opposite the terminals 11 of the battery 10. The battery module 1 includes two lead plates 20. The two lead plates 20 are arranged opposite each other, separated by multiple batteries 10. The lead plates 20 are conductive. The lead plates 20 electrically connect the batteries 10 to each other. Additionally, the lead plates 20 electrically connect the multiple batteries 10 to the control board 30. Details of the lead plates 20 will be described below.

[0076] The control board 30 controls the charging and discharging of the battery 10. The control board 30 is electrically connected to an external device, supplying (discharging) power from the battery 10 to the external device. In addition, the control board 30 is electrically connected to a power source (e.g., a commercial power supply), supplying (charging) power from the power source to the battery 10.

[0077] Battery module 1 includes two light sensors 40. The two light sensors 40 are configured similarly. Each light sensor 40 includes, for example, a photodiode in its light-receiving portion 41. The light sensors 40 are non-directional. However, it should be noted that the light sensors 40 can also be directional sensors. When using a directional sensor, it is sufficient to configure the sensor according to its directional range (detectable angle, distance, etc.) so that it can detect the XZ plane of the lead plate 20 (see reference). Figure 2 The entire surface of the light sensor 40 (specifically, the entire second surface S2 as described below) is sufficient. The light sensor 40 is disposed on the control substrate 30. Details of the configuration of the light sensor 40 will be described below.

[0078] Next, details of the lead plate 20 will be described. The two lead plates 20 have the same configuration.

[0079] Figure 3 It is observed along the Y direction. Figure 1 The side view of battery module 1 shown. Figure 3 The lead plate 20 shown includes a plan view illustrating the main body 21 described below. That is, Figure 3 The side view of the battery module 1 shown illustrates the battery module 1 when viewed from the planar view of the main body 21. The thickness of the lead plate 20 is approximately constant. The lead plate 20 integrally comprises the main body 21 and multiple contact portions 22.

[0080] The main body 21 is plate-shaped and has multiple through holes 21a that overlap with the terminals 11 of the battery 10 when viewed in a planar view. Each terminal 11 of the battery 10 overlaps with one through hole 21a when viewed in a planar view. The arrangement and number of the multiple through holes 21a are the same as the arrangement and number of the multiple batteries 10. That is, in the main body 21, the multiple through holes 21a are arranged in a matrix along both the X and Z directions. Furthermore, in this first embodiment, the number of through holes 21a is 20. The number of through holes 21a arranged along the X direction is 5. The number of through holes 21a arranged along the Z direction is 4. Additionally, as... Figure 1 , 2 As shown, the main body 21 has a strip-shaped connecting portion 21b that extends from the side of the main body 21 and is electrically connected to the control substrate 30.

[0081] like Figure 3 As shown, when the main body 21 is viewed in planar view, the plurality of contact pieces 22 are arranged in a matrix along both the row and column directions. The arrangement and number of the plurality of contact pieces 22 are the same as the arrangement and number of the plurality of batteries 10. That is, in the main body 21, the plurality of contact pieces 22 are arranged in a matrix along both the X and Z directions. Furthermore, in this first embodiment, the number of contact pieces 22 is 20. The number of contact pieces 22 arranged along the X direction is 5. The number of contact pieces 22 arranged along the Z direction is 4.

[0082] Hereinafter, the X direction will sometimes be referred to as the row direction, and the Z direction will sometimes be referred to as the column direction. In addition, the reference numerals "(i, j)" attached to the reference numerals of the protrusion height H of the second patch 24 and the patch 22 shown in the figure indicate that in a plurality of patch 22 arranged in a matrix, the patch 22 and the patch 22 having the second patch 24 are located in the i-th row and the j-th column.

[0083] In “(i, j)”, “i” is a natural number representing the row number. The row closest to the -Z side is numbered “1”, and the row numbers increase as you move from the -Z side towards the +Z side. Specifically, Figure 3 The multiple splice sections 22 shown have 4 rows, and the row numbers of these 4 rows are 1, 2, 3, and 4 from the -Z side to the +Z side.

[0084] Additionally, "j" in "(i, j)" is a natural number representing the column number. The column closest to -X is numbered "1", and the column numbers increase as you move from -X towards +X. Specifically, Figure 3 The plurality of splice sections 22 shown have 5 columns, and the column numbers of these 5 columns are 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 from the -X side toward the +X side.

[0085] Figure 4 yes Figure 3A perspective view of the splice portion 22 shown. Figure 5 It is shown Figure 3 A diagram showing the cross-sectional shape of the connector portion 22. (See diagram for reference.) Figure 3 , 4 As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the plurality of bonding portions 22 each integrally comprises a first bonding portion 23 and a second bonding portion 24.

[0086] When the main body 21 is viewed from a planar perspective, the first contact portion 23 is located further inward than the periphery of the through hole 21a. A first contact portion 23 is disposed within the through hole 21a. The first contact portion 23 is electrically connected to the terminal 11 of the battery 10. The first plate surface S1 of the first contact portion 23 facing the battery 10 is in contact with and electrically connected to the terminal 11 of the battery 10.

[0087] The second connector portion 24 is strip-shaped and electrically connects the first connector portion 23 to the main body portion 21. Specifically, the first end of the second connector portion 24 is electrically connected to a portion of the periphery of the first connector portion 23, and the second end of the second connector portion 24 is electrically connected to a portion of the periphery of the through hole 21a. In this first embodiment, the first end of the second connector portion 24 is electrically connected to the -Z side portion of the first connector portion 23, and the second end of the second connector portion 24 is electrically connected to the -Z side portion of the through hole 21a. The cross-sectional area of ​​the second connector portion 24, which is orthogonal to the extending direction of the second connector portion 24, is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the first connector portion 23 along the thickness direction.

[0088] Figure 5 The cross-sectional shape of the second connector portion 24 shown is from the main body portion 21 toward the side with the battery 10 ( Figure 5 The opposite side (the middle is the +Y side) Figure 5 The U-shape protrudes from the Y side and opens the battery 10 side. Hereinafter, the protrusion height H of the second connector 24 is defined as the length in the Y direction from the second plate surface S2 of the main body 21, which is located on the opposite side of the first plate surface S1 of the first connector 23, to the protruding end T of the second connector 24.

[0089] Figure 6 It is observed along the column direction. Figure 3 The side view of the lead plate 20 shown. Figure 3 , 6 As shown, the plurality of second patch portions 24 are arranged in a matrix along the row and column directions. That is, the plurality of second patch portions 24 included in the plurality of patch portions 22 with the same row number are arranged along the row direction. In addition, the plurality of second patch portions 24 included in the plurality of patch portions 22 with the same column number are arranged along the column direction.

[0090] In addition, such as Figure 6As shown, the protrusion height H of the plurality of second connector portions 24 increases in the Z direction from the -Z side to the +Z side. That is, the larger the column number, the higher the protrusion height H of the plurality of second connector portions 24 included in the plurality of connector portions 22 with the same column number.

[0091] Furthermore, the multiple second connectors 24 included in the multiple connectors 22 of the same row number have the same protrusion height H. In other words, the protrusion height H of the multiple second connectors 24 included in the multiple connectors 22 of the same row is equal to that of each other. Figure 6 The symbols “H1”, “H2”, “H3” and “H4” respectively refer to the protrusion height H of the five second connector portions 24 in the first row, the five second connector portions 24 in the second row, the five second connector portions 24 in the third row, and the five second connector portions 24 in the fourth row.

[0092] like Figure 2 As shown, when the main body 21 is viewed from the side, the light sensor 40 is disposed on the side opposite to the plurality of batteries 10, separated by the lead plate 20. The Z-direction distance D between the light-receiving part 41 of the light sensor 40 and the second plate surface S2 of the main body 21 is greater than or equal to the protrusion height H of the second contact part 24 closest to the light sensor 40.

[0093] In addition, such as Figure 3 As shown, when the main body 21 is viewed in a planar orientation, the light sensor 40 is located further outward in the column direction than the plurality of second contact portions 24. In this first embodiment, the light sensor 40 is located further towards the -Z side than the plurality of second contact portions 24. Furthermore, when the main body 21 is viewed in a planar orientation, the light sensor 40 is located at the center of the main body 21 in the row direction.

[0094] By configuring the lead plate 20 as described above and positioning the photosensor 40 in the aforementioned positions, the plurality of second contact portions 24 have the following positional relationship with the photosensor 40. Specifically, the protrusion height H of the plurality of second contact portions 24 increases as they move away from the photosensor 40 in the column direction. Furthermore, when viewing one of the plurality of second contact portions 24 from the photosensor 40, the protruding end T of that one second contact portion 24 does not overlap with any of the other second contact portions 24 among the plurality of second contact portions 24.

[0095] Furthermore, the plurality of second contact portions 24 include two second contact portions 24 at different distances from the light sensor 40. Among the two second contact portions 24, the protrusion height H of the second contact portion 24 that is farther from the light sensor 40 is higher than that of the second contact portion 24 that is shorter from the light sensor 40.

[0096] Next, the operation of battery module 1 when an abnormality occurs in battery 10 that generates overcurrent will be explained.

[0097] In the event of an abnormality in battery 10, an overcurrent flows through lead plate 20. As described above, the cross-sectional area of ​​the second contact portion 24, which is orthogonal to the extending direction of the second contact portion 24, is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the first contact portion 23 along its thickness direction. Therefore, the second contact portion 24 functions as a fuse that blows due to overcurrent. The second contact portion 24 corresponding to the abnormal battery 10 blows due to overcurrent. The second contact portion 24 emits light when it blows.

[0098] The plurality of second contact portions 24 have the aforementioned positional relationship with the light sensor 40. Therefore, the light generated when the second contact portion 24 melts directly reaches the light sensor 40. Consequently, the light sensor 40 detects the light generated when the second contact portion 24 melts with high precision. When the light sensor 40 detects this light, the control board 30, for example, stops the charging and discharging of the battery module 1.

[0099] In this way, the detection accuracy of light generated when the battery 10 malfunctions can be improved in the battery module 1 equipped with the light sensor 40.

[0100] It should be noted that the light sensor 40 can also be positioned outside the center of the main body 21 in the row direction. Furthermore, as long as the protruding end T of one of the plurality of second patch portions 24 does not overlap with any of the other second patch portions 24 when viewed from the light sensor 40, the light sensor 40 can also be located further outward in the row direction than the plurality of patch portions 22. Additionally, the Z-direction distance D between the light-receiving portion 41 of the light sensor 40 and the second plate surface S2 of the main body 21 can be smaller than the protrusion height H of the second patch portion 24 closest to the light sensor 40.

[0101] <First Variation of the First Embodiment>

[0102] Next, regarding the battery module 1 of the first variation of the first embodiment, the differences from the battery module 1 of the first embodiment described above will be explained.

[0103] Figure 7 This is a side view of the battery module 1 according to the first variation of the first embodiment of this disclosure, viewed along the Y direction. Figure 8 It is observed along the column direction. Figure 7 The diagram shows a side view of the lead plate 120. The lead plate 120 includes a main body 121 and a plurality of contact portions 122. Each contact portion 122 has a first contact portion 123 and a second contact portion 124.

[0104] In this first variation, the plurality of second patch portions 124 are located at different positions in the row direction. Specifically, the plurality of second patch portions 124 included in the plurality of patch portions 122 in the same column are located at different positions in the row direction. In other words, the plurality of second patch portions 124 included in the plurality of patch portions 122 with the same column number do not overlap when viewed along the column direction.

[0105] In this first modification, in the connector portions 122 of columns 1, 2, and 3, the plurality of second connector portions 124 included in the plurality of connector portions 122 with the same column number are offset along the Z direction from the -Z side to the +Z side and along the X direction from the -X side to the +X side. Furthermore, in the connector portions 122 of columns 4 and 5, the plurality of second connector portions 124 included in the plurality of connector portions 122 with the same column number are offset along the Z direction from the -Z side to the +Z side and along the X direction from the +X side to the -X side. It should be noted that, in this first modification, the positions of the plurality of second connector portions 124 included in the plurality of connector portions 122 with the same column number are not limited to the positions described above.

[0106] In this first variation, similar to the first embodiment described above, when one of the plurality of second contact portions 124 is observed from the light sensor 40, the protruding end T of that single second contact portion 124 does not overlap with any of the other second contact portions 124. Therefore, the light generated when the second contact portion 124 melts directly reaches the light sensor 40. Consequently, in the battery module 1 equipped with the light sensor 40, the detection accuracy of the light generated when the battery 10 malfunctions can be improved.

[0107] <Second variation of the first embodiment>

[0108] Next, regarding the battery module 1 in the second variation of the first embodiment, the differences from the battery module 1 in the first variation of the first embodiment will be explained.

[0109] In this second variation, the arrangement of the plurality of second contact portions 224 of the lead plate 220 is similar to... Figure 7 In the first variation of the first embodiment shown, the arrangement of the plurality of second tab portions 124 is identical. Furthermore, the protrusion height H of the plurality of second tab portions 224 increases as they move away from the light sensor 40 in the column direction.

[0110] Figure 9AThis is a side view of the lead plate 220 of the battery module 1 according to the second variation of the first embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed along the column direction. It is a diagram in which the plurality of second contact portions 224 included in the plurality of contact portions 222 in the first row of the plurality of second contact portions 224 are represented by solid lines, and the other plurality of second contact portions 224 are represented by dashed lines. Figure 9B yes Figure 9A The side view of the lead plate 220 shown is a diagram in which the plurality of second contact portions 224 included in the plurality of contact portions 222 in the second row of the plurality of second contact portions 224 are represented by solid lines, and the other plurality of second contact portions 224 are represented by dashed lines.

[0111] Figure 9C yes Figure 9A The side view of the lead plate 220 shown is a diagram in which the plurality of second contact portions 224 included in the plurality of contact portions 222 in the third row of the plurality of second contact portions 224 are represented by solid lines, and the other plurality of second contact portions 224 are represented by dashed lines. Figure 9D yes Figure 9A The side view of the lead plate 220 shown is a diagram in which the plurality of second contact portions 224 included in the plurality of contact portions 222 in the fourth row of the plurality of second contact portions 224 are represented by solid lines, and the other plurality of second contact portions 224 are represented by dashed lines.

[0112] In this second modification, the protrusion height H of the plurality of second tabs 224 increases as they move away from the light sensor 40 in the row direction.

[0113] As described above, the light sensor 40 is located at the center of the main body 221 in the row direction. Therefore, as Figure 9A , 9B As shown in 9C and 9D, among the multiple second connectors 224 included in the multiple connectors 222 with the same row number, the protrusion height H of the second connector 224 included in the third column connector 222, which is closest to the center of the main body 221 in the row direction, is the lowest. Furthermore, among the multiple second connectors 224 included in the multiple connectors 222 with the same row number, the protrusion height H of the second connectors 224 included in the second and fourth columns connectors 222 is higher than the protrusion height H of the second connector 224 included in the third column connector 222. Additionally, in this second variation, the protrusion height H of the second connectors 224 included in the second and fourth columns connectors 222 is equal to each other. It should be noted that the protrusion height H of the second connectors 224 included in the second and fourth columns connectors 222 may also be different.

[0114] Furthermore, among the multiple second connectors 224 included in the multiple connectors 222 of the same row number, the protrusion height H of the second connectors 224 included in the connectors 222 of columns 1 and 5 is higher than the protrusion height H of the second connectors 224 included in the connectors 222 of columns 2 and 4. Additionally, in this second variation, the protrusion height H of the second connectors 224 included in the connectors 222 of columns 1 and 5 is equal to each other. It should be noted that the protrusion height H of the second connectors 224 included in the connectors 222 of columns 1 and 5 can also be different.

[0115] In this second modification, similar to the first modification of the first embodiment described above, when one of the plurality of second contact portions 224 is observed from the light sensor 40, the protruding end T of that one second contact portion 224 does not overlap with the other second contact portions 224 among the plurality of second contact portions 224. In other words, the protruding ends T of the plurality of second contact portions 224 are offset in the protrusion direction (Y direction) and X direction of the second contact portion 224. Therefore, the light generated when the second contact portion 224 melts directly reaches the light sensor 40. Thus, in the battery module 1 equipped with the light sensor 40, the detection accuracy of the light generated when the battery 10 malfunctions can be improved.

[0116] <Second Implementation Method>

[0117] Next, regarding the battery module 1 according to the second embodiment, the differences from the battery module 1 according to the first embodiment will be explained.

[0118] Figure 10 This is a side view of the battery module 1 according to the second embodiment of this disclosure when viewed along the Y direction. Figure 11 yes Figure 10 The diagram shows a perspective view of the contact portion 322 of the leadboard 320. The leadboard 320 includes a main body portion 321 and multiple contact portions 322.

[0119] In this second embodiment, each of the plurality of bonding portions 322 includes a plurality of second bonding portions 324. In this second embodiment, the number of second bonding portions 324 included in the bonding portion 322 is two, but it is not limited to two.

[0120] Multiple first contact portions 323 are electrically connected to the main body portion 321 via two second contact portions 324. The first ends of the two second contact portions 324 are electrically connected to the -Z side portion of the first contact portion 323. Specifically, the first end of one of the two second contact portions 324 is electrically connected to the +X side portion of the -Z side portion of the first contact portion 323. The first end of the other of the two second contact portions 324 is electrically connected to the -X side portion of the -Z side portion of the first contact portion 323. The second ends of these two second contact portions 324 are electrically connected to the -Z side portion of the through hole 321a. Specifically, the second end of one of the two second contact portions 324 is electrically connected to the +X side portion of the -Z side portion of the through hole 321a. Furthermore, the second end of the other of the two second contact portions 324 is electrically connected to the -X side of the -Z side portion of the through hole 321a. Additionally, the protrusion height H of the two second contact portions 324 is equal to that of each other. Hereinafter, these two second contact portions 324 will be referred to as "second contact portion group C". A plurality of first contact portions 323 are each electrically connected to the main body portion 321 via a second contact portion group C.

[0121] Figure 12 It is observed along the column direction. Figure 10 The side view of the lead plate 320 shown. Figure 10 , 12 As shown, in this second embodiment, a plurality of second connector groups C are arranged in a matrix. Among the plurality of second connector groups C included in the plurality of connectors 322 with the same column number, a plurality of second connectors 324 are arranged in two columns along the column direction.

[0122] Furthermore, similar to the battery module 1 of the first embodiment described above, the protrusion height H of the plurality of second contact portions 324 increases as they move away from the light sensor 40 in the column direction. Additionally, the protrusion height H of the plurality of second contact portions 324 included in the plurality of contact portions 322 in the same row is equal to that of each other.

[0123] In this second embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment described above, when one of the plurality of second contact portions 324 is observed from the light sensor 40, the protruding end T of that single second contact portion 324 does not overlap with any of the other second contact portions 324. Therefore, the light generated when the second contact portion 324 melts directly reaches the light sensor 40. Consequently, in the battery module 1 equipped with the light sensor 40, the detection accuracy of the light generated when the battery 10 malfunctions can be improved.

[0124] Furthermore, in this second embodiment, the first end of one of the two second contact portions 324 is electrically connected to the +X side of the -Z side portion of the first contact portion 323. The first end of the other of the two second contact portions 324 is electrically connected to the -X side of the -Z side portion of the first contact portion 323. The second end of one of the two second contact portions 324 is electrically connected to the +X side of the -Z side portion of the through hole 321a. The second end of the other of the two second contact portions 324 is electrically connected to the -X side of the -Z side portion of the through hole 321a. By positioning the two second contact portions 324 in the aforementioned position (in other words, the position where the two second contact portions 324 are separated when viewed from a predetermined direction), compared to the first embodiment described above (where the contact portion 22 has one second contact portion 24), the durability of the contact portion 322 is improved when a force is applied in the torsional direction of the contact portion 322. Therefore, even if a force is applied in the torsional direction of the contact portion 322 due to impact, vibration, or other factors acting on the battery module 1, damage to the contact portion 322 can be prevented.

[0125] <Modifications of the Second Embodiment>

[0126] Next, regarding the battery module 1 involved in the variation of the second embodiment, the differences from the battery module 1 involved in the second embodiment described above will be explained.

[0127] Figure 13 This is a side view of the battery module 1 according to a modified example of the second embodiment of this disclosure, viewed along the Y direction. Figure 14 It is observed along the column direction. Figure 13 The diagram shows a side view of the lead plate 420. The lead plate 420 includes a main body 421 and a plurality of contact portions 422. Each contact portion 422 includes a first contact portion 423 and two second contact portions 424 (second contact portion group C).

[0128] In this modified example, the multiple second patch portions 424 included in the multiple patch portions 422 of the same column are located in different positions in the row direction. That is, the multiple second patch portions 424 included in the multiple patch portions 422 of the same column number do not overlap when viewed along the column direction.

[0129] In this modified example, in the connector sections 422 of columns 1 and 2, the plurality of second connector section groups C included in the plurality of connector sections 422 with the same column number are offset along the Z direction from the -Z side to the +Z side and along the X direction from the -X side to the +X side. Furthermore, in the connector sections 422 of columns 3, 4, and 5, the plurality of second connector section groups C included in the plurality of connector sections 422 with the same column number are offset along the Z direction from the -Z side to the +Z side and along the X direction from the +X side to the -X side.

[0130] In this modified example, similar to the first embodiment described above, when one of the plurality of second contact portions 424 is observed from the light sensor 40, the protruding end T of that one second contact portion 424 does not overlap with the other second contact portions 424 among the plurality of second contact portions 424. In other words, the protruding ends T of the plurality of second contact portions 424 are offset in the protrusion direction (Y direction) and X direction of the second contact portion 424. Therefore, the light generated when the second contact portion 424 melts directly reaches the light sensor 40. Thus, in the battery module 1 equipped with the light sensor 40, the detection accuracy of the light generated when the battery 10 malfunctions can be improved.

[0131] <Third Implementation Method>

[0132] Next, regarding the battery module 1 according to the third embodiment, the differences from the battery module 1 according to the first embodiment will be explained.

[0133] Figure 15 This is a side view of the battery module 1 according to the third embodiment of this disclosure when viewed along the Y direction. Figure 16 It is observed along the column direction. Figure 15 The diagram shows a side view of the lead plate 520. The lead plate 520 includes a main body 521 and a plurality of contact portions 522. Each contact portion 522 includes a first contact portion 523 and a second contact portion 524.

[0134] Compared to the battery module 1 of the first embodiment, the battery module 1 of this third embodiment includes a plurality of contact portions 522 in the first row that are closest to the light sensor 40, each having a second contact portion 524, and the plurality of contact portions 522 in the second, third, and fourth rows each having a second contact portion group C composed of two second contact portions 524. Furthermore, in the plurality of contact portions 522 in the second, third, and fourth rows, the spacing between the two second contact portions 524 constituting the second contact portion group C increases as the distance from the light sensor 40 in the column direction increases.

[0135] Thus, the multiple second connectors 524 included in the multiple connectors 522 with the same column number are arranged in a V-shape when the main body 21 is viewed in a plane, and do not overlap when viewed along the column direction.

[0136] Furthermore, similar to the battery module 1 of the first embodiment described above, the protrusion height H of the plurality of second contact portions 524 increases as they move away from the light sensor 40 in the column direction. Additionally, the protrusion height H of the plurality of second contact portions 524 included in the plurality of contact portions 522 in the same row are equal to each other.

[0137] In this third embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment described above, when one of the plurality of second contact portions 524 is observed from the light sensor 40, the protruding end T of that single second contact portion 524 does not overlap with any of the other second contact portions 524. Therefore, the light generated when the second contact portion 524 melts directly reaches the light sensor 40. Consequently, in the battery module 1 equipped with the light sensor 40, the detection accuracy of the light generated when the battery 10 malfunctions can be improved.

[0138] <Modifications of the Third Embodiment>

[0139] Next, regarding the battery module 1 according to the variation of the third embodiment, the differences from the battery module 1 according to the third embodiment described above will be mainly explained. In this variation, the arrangement of the plurality of second contact portions 624 is different from that in the third embodiment. Figure 15 In the third embodiment shown, the plurality of second contact portions 524 are arranged identically. Furthermore, the protrusion height H of the plurality of second contact portions 624 increases as they move away from the photosensor 40 in the column direction. It should be noted that the protrusion height H of two second contact portions 624 constituting a group C of second contact portions is equal to that of each other.

[0140] Figure 17A This is a side view of the lead plate 620 of the battery module 1 according to the modified example of the third embodiment of this disclosure, viewed along the column direction. It is a diagram in which the plurality of second contact portions 624 included in the plurality of contact portions 622 in the first row are represented by solid lines, and the other plurality of second contact portions 624 are represented by dashed lines. Figure 17B yes Figure 17A The side view of the lead plate 620 shown is a diagram in which the plurality of second contact portions 624 included in the plurality of contact portions 622 in the second row are represented by solid lines, and the other plurality of second contact portions 624 are represented by dashed lines.

[0141] Figure 17C yes Figure 17A The side view of the lead plate 620 shown is a diagram in which the plurality of second contact portions 624 included in the plurality of contact portions 622 in the third row are represented by solid lines, and the other plurality of second contact portions 624 are represented by dashed lines. Figure 17D yes Figure 17AThe side view of the lead plate 620 shown is a diagram in which the plurality of second contact portions 624 included in the plurality of contact portions 622 in the fourth row are represented by solid lines, and the other plurality of second contact portions 624 are represented by dashed lines.

[0142] In this modified example, the protrusion height H of the plurality of second contact portions 624 included in the plurality of contact portions 622 in the first row increases as they move away from the photosensor 40 in the row direction. As described above, the photosensor 40 is located at the center of the main body portion 621 in the row direction. Therefore, as Figure 17A As shown, among the multiple second contact portions 624 included in the multiple contact portions 622 in the first row, the protrusion height H of the second contact portion 624 included in the contact portion 622 in the third column closest to the light sensor 40 is the lowest.

[0143] Furthermore, among the multiple second contact portions 624 included in the multiple contact portions 622 in the first row, the protrusion height H of the second contact portions 624 included in the contact portions 622 in the second and fourth columns is higher than the protrusion height H of the second contact portions 624 included in the contact portions 622 in the third column. Additionally, in this modified example, the protrusion height H of the second contact portions 624 included in the contact portions 622 in the second and fourth columns is equal to each other. It should be noted that the protrusion height H of the second contact portions 624 included in the contact portions 622 in the second and fourth columns can also be different.

[0144] Furthermore, among the multiple second connectors 624 included in the plurality of connector portions 622 in the first row, the protrusion height H of the second connectors 624 included in the connector portions 622 in the first and fifth columns is higher than the protrusion height H of the second connectors 624 included in the connector portions 622 in the second and fourth columns. Additionally, in this modified example, the protrusion height H of the second connectors 624 included in the connector portions 622 in the first and fifth columns is equal to each other. It should be noted that the protrusion height H of the second connectors 624 included in the connector portions 622 in the first and fifth columns can also be different.

[0145] In addition, such as Figure 17B , 17C As shown in 17D, among the multiple second patch group Cs included in the multiple patch sections 622 with the same row number, the protrusion height H of the two second patch sections 624 of the second patch group C that is further away from the light sensor 40 in the two adjacent second patch group Cs in the row direction is higher than the protrusion height H of the two second patch sections 624 of the second patch group C that is closer to the light sensor 40.

[0146] In other words, among the multiple second connector groups C included in the multiple connector portions 622 in rows 2, 3, and 4, the protrusion height H of the second connector portion 624 included in the connector portion 622 in column 3 is the lowest.

[0147] Furthermore, regarding the multiple connector portions 622 in rows 2, 3, and 4, among the multiple second connector portion groups C included in the multiple connector portions 622 of the same row number, the protrusion height H of the multiple second connector portions 624 included in the connector portions 622 in columns 2 and 4 is higher than the protrusion height H of the multiple second connector portions 624 included in the connector portions 622 in column 3. The protrusion height H of the multiple second connector portions 624 included in the connector portions 622 in columns 2 and 4 is equal to each other. It should be noted that the protrusion height H of the multiple second connector portions 624 included in the connector portions 622 in columns 2 and 4 can also be different from each other.

[0148] Furthermore, regarding the multiple connector portions 622 in rows 2, 3, and 4, among the multiple second connector portion groups C included in the multiple connector portions 622 of the same row number, the protrusion height H of the multiple second connector portions 624 included in the connector portions 622 in columns 1 and 5 is higher than the protrusion height H of the multiple second connector portions 624 included in the connector portions 622 in columns 2 and 4. The protrusion height H of the multiple second connector portions 624 included in the connector portions 622 in columns 1 and 5 is equal to each other. It should be noted that the protrusion height H of the multiple second connector portions 624 included in the connector portions 622 in columns 1 and 5 can also be different from each other.

[0149] In this modified example, similar to the third embodiment described above, when one of the plurality of second contact portions 624 is observed from the light sensor 40, the protruding end T of that one second contact portion 624 does not overlap with the other second contact portions 624 among the plurality of second contact portions 624. In other words, the protruding ends T of the plurality of second contact portions 624 are offset in the protrusion direction (Y direction) and X direction of the second contact portion 624. Therefore, the light generated when the second contact portion 624 melts directly reaches the light sensor 40. Thus, in the battery module 1 equipped with the light sensor 40, the detection accuracy of the light generated when the battery 10 malfunctions can be improved.

[0150] <Fourth Implementation Method>

[0151] Next, regarding the battery module 1 according to the fourth embodiment, the differences from the battery module 1 according to the first embodiment will be explained.

[0152] Figure 18 This is a side view of the battery module 1 according to the fourth embodiment of this disclosure when viewed along the Y direction. Figure 19 It is observed along the X direction. Figure 18 The side view of battery module 1 shown.

[0153] In this fourth embodiment, as Figure 18As shown, when the main body 721 of the lead plate 720 is viewed in planar view, the photosensitive sensor 40 is located in the center of the main body 721. Specifically, when the main body 721 is viewed in planar view, the photosensitive sensor 40 is located between the second row of the multiple contact points 722 in the third column and the third row of the contact points 722. The control board 30 also includes a support portion 731 that positions the photosensitive sensor 40 in the center of the main body 721 when viewed in planar view.

[0154] Furthermore, the plurality of second bonding portions 724 are arranged in a matrix along both the row and column directions. That is, the plurality of second bonding portions 724 included in the plurality of bonding portions 722 with the same row number are arranged along the row direction. Furthermore, the plurality of second bonding portions 724 included in the plurality of bonding portions 722 with the same column number are arranged along the column direction.

[0155] In this fourth embodiment, among the second connectors 724 included in the plurality of connectors 722 in the first and second rows, the first end of the second connector 724 is electrically connected to the +Z side portion of the first connector 723, and the second end of the second connector 724 is electrically connected to the +Z side portion of the through hole 721a.

[0156] In addition, among the second connectors 724 included in the plurality of connectors 722 in rows 3 and 4, the first end of the second connector 724 is electrically connected to the -Z side portion of the first connector 723, and the second end of the second connector 724 is electrically connected to the -Z side portion of the through hole 721a.

[0157] Figure 20A Observed from the light sensor 40 along the column direction Figure 18 The side view of the lead plate 720 shown is a diagram showing the plurality of second connectors 724 included in the plurality of connectors 722 in the third and fourth rows. Figure 20B Observed from the light sensor 40 along the column direction Figure 19 The side view of the lead plate 720 shown is a diagram showing the plurality of second connectors 724 included in the plurality of connectors 722 in the first and second rows.

[0158] The multiple second connectors 724 included in the multiple connectors 722 of the same row number have the same protrusion height H. In other words, the protrusion height H of the multiple second connectors 724 included in the multiple connectors 722 of the same row is equal to that of each other.

[0159] in addition, Figure 20B The protrusion height H (H1) of the plurality of second connector portions 724 included in the plurality of connector portions 722 in the first row shown is higher than the protrusion height H (H2) of the plurality of second connector portions 724 included in the plurality of connector portions 722 in the second row. Furthermore, Figure 20A The protrusion height H (H4) of the plurality of second connectors 724 included in the plurality of connectors 722 in the fourth row shown is higher than the protrusion height H (H3) of the plurality of second connectors 724 included in the plurality of connectors 722 in the third row.

[0160] Furthermore, the protrusion heights H (H2, H3) of the plurality of second connectors 724 included in the plurality of connector portions 722 in rows 2 and 3 are equal to each other. It should be noted that the protrusion heights H (H2) of the plurality of second connectors 724 included in the plurality of connector portions 722 in row 2 and the protrusion heights H (H3) of the plurality of second connectors 724 included in the plurality of connector portions 722 in row 3 can also be different from each other.

[0161] Furthermore, the protrusion heights H (H1, H4) of the plurality of second connectors 724 included in the plurality of connector portions 722 in rows 1 and 4 are equal to each other. It should be noted that the protrusion heights H (H1) of the plurality of second connectors 724 included in the plurality of connector portions 722 in row 1 and the protrusion heights H (H4) of the plurality of second connectors 724 included in the plurality of connector portions 722 in row 4 may also be different from each other.

[0162] By determining the protrusion height H of the plurality of second tabs 724 in this way, the protrusion height H of the plurality of second tabs 724 increases as they move away from the light sensor 40 in the column direction.

[0163] In this fourth embodiment, by positioning the light sensor 40 at the center of the main body 721 when viewed from a plane, the distance between the second contact portion 724 furthest from the light sensor 40 and the light sensor 40 is reduced compared to the first embodiment described above. Therefore, the light generated when the second contact portion 724 melts easily reaches the light sensor 40.

[0164] Furthermore, in this fourth embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment described above, when one of the plurality of second contact portions 724 is observed from the light sensor 40, the protruding end T of that single second contact portion 724 does not overlap with any of the other second contact portions 724 among the plurality of second contact portions 724. Therefore, the light generated when the second contact portion 724 melts directly reaches the light sensor 40. Consequently, in the battery module 1 equipped with the light sensor 40, the detection accuracy of the light generated when the battery 10 malfunctions can be improved.

[0165] It should be noted that the light sensor 40 may also be disposed at a position overlapping the main body 721, other than the central portion of the main body 721. In this case, the protrusion height H of the plurality of second tabs 724 is determined to increase as they move away from the light sensor 40 in the column direction.

[0166] <First Variation of the Fourth Embodiment>

[0167] Next, regarding the battery module 1 in the first variation of the fourth embodiment, the differences from the battery module 1 in the fourth embodiment described above will be explained.

[0168] Figure 21 This is a side view of the battery module 1 according to the first variation of the fourth embodiment of this disclosure, viewed along the Y direction. The lead plate 820 includes a main body 821 and a plurality of contact portions 822.

[0169] Similar to the fourth embodiment described above, when the main body 821 is viewed in planar view, the light sensor 40 is positioned between the second row and the third row of the plurality of contact portions 822 in the third column via the support portion 831. Therefore, the plurality of contact portions 822 in the third column of the plurality of contact portions 822 includes the contact portion 822 closest to the light sensor 40.

[0170] The plurality of second patch portions 824 included in the plurality of patch portions 822 in the third column, including the patch portion 822 closest to the light sensor 40, are located at different positions in the row direction. That is, the plurality of second patch portions 824 included in the plurality of patch portions 822 in the third column do not overlap when viewed along the column direction.

[0171] In the second column of multiple splicing portions 822, the two second splicing portions 824 included in the splicing portions 822 in the second and third rows are positioned identically in the row direction. Similarly, the two second splicing portions 824 included in the splicing portions 822 in the first and fourth rows of the second column are positioned identically in the row direction. Furthermore, among the multiple second splicing portions 824 included in the second column of multiple splicing portions 822, the two second splicing portions 824 included in the splicing portions 822 in the second and third rows are positioned differently from the two second splicing portions 824 included in the splicing portions 822 in the first and fourth rows in the row direction, and do not overlap when viewed along the column direction.

[0172] Furthermore, in the plurality of splicing portions 822 in the fourth column, the two second splicing portions 824 included in the splicing portions 822 in the second and third rows are positioned identically to each other in the row direction. In the plurality of splicing portions 822 in the fourth column, the two second splicing portions 824 included in the splicing portions 822 in the second and third rows are positioned differently from the two second splicing portions 824 included in the splicing portions 822 in the first and fourth rows in the row direction, and do not overlap when viewed along the column direction.

[0173] The plurality of second connectors 824 included in the plurality of connector portions 822 in the first column are positioned at the same location relative to each other in the row direction. The plurality of second connectors 824 included in the plurality of connector portions 822 in the fifth column are positioned at the same location relative to each other in the row direction. That is, among the plurality of second connectors 824 included in the plurality of connector portions 822 in the first and fifth columns, the plurality of second connectors 824 with the same column number are arranged along the column direction.

[0174] In addition, the second and third rows of the plurality of splice portions 822 include the splice portion 822 closest to the light sensor 40.

[0175] Regarding the three second contact portions 824 included in the first, third, and fifth columns of the plurality of second contact portions 824 included in the second row of contact portions 822, including the contact portion 822 closest to the light sensor 40, the first end of the second contact portion 824 is electrically connected to the +Z side portion of the first contact portion 823, and the second end of the second contact portion 824 is electrically connected to the +Z side portion of the through hole 821a. Furthermore, regarding the two second contact portions 824 included in the second and fourth columns of the plurality of second contact portions 824 included in the second row of contact portions 822, the first end of the second contact portion 824 is electrically connected to the -Z side portion of the first contact portion 823, and the second end of the second contact portion 824 is electrically connected to the -Z side portion of the through hole 821a.

[0176] Regarding the three second contact portions 824 included in the first, third, and fifth columns of the plurality of second contact portions 824 among the contact portions 822 in the third row, including the contact portion 822 closest to the light sensor 40, the first end of the second contact portion 824 is electrically connected to the -Z side portion of the first contact portion 823, and the second end of the second contact portion 824 is electrically connected to the -Z side portion of the through hole 821a. Furthermore, regarding the two second contact portions 824 included in the second and fourth columns of the plurality of second contact portions 824 among the plurality of second contact portions 822 in the third row, the first end of the second contact portion 824 is electrically connected to the +Z side portion of the first contact portion 823, and the second end of the second contact portion 824 is electrically connected to the +Z side portion of the through hole 821a.

[0177] Furthermore, the plurality of second contact portions 824 included in the plurality of contact portions 822 in the first row are arranged along the row direction. Among the five second contact portions 824 included in the plurality of contact portions 822 in the first row, the first end of the second contact portion 824 is electrically connected to the +Z side portion of the first contact portion 823, and the second end of the second contact portion 824 is electrically connected to the +Z side portion of the through hole 821a.

[0178] The plurality of second contact portions 824 included in the plurality of contact portions 822 in the fourth row are arranged along the row direction. Among the five second contact portions 824 included in the plurality of contact portions 822 in the fourth row, the first end of the second contact portion 824 is electrically connected to the -Z side portion of the first contact portion 823, and the second end of the second contact portion 824 is electrically connected to the -Z side portion of the through hole 821a.

[0179] Figure 22A Observed from the light sensor 40 along the column direction Figure 21 The side view of the lead plate 820 shown is a diagram showing the plurality of second connectors 824 included in the plurality of connectors 822 in the third and fourth rows. Figure 22B Observed from the light sensor 40 along the column direction Figure 21 The side view of the lead plate 820 shown is a diagram showing the plurality of second connectors 824 included in the plurality of connectors 822 in the first and second rows.

[0180] The protrusion height H of the plurality of second contact portions 824 included in the plurality of contact portions 822 in the third column, including the contact portion 822 closest to the light sensor 40, increases as it moves away from the light sensor 40 in the column direction. That is, among the plurality of second contact portions 824 included in the plurality of contact portions 822 in the third column, Figure 22B The protrusion height H of the second connector portion 824 included in the connector portion 822 in the first row shown is higher than the protrusion height H of the second connector portion 824 included in the connector portion 822 in the second row. Furthermore, Figure 22A The protrusion height H of the second connector portion 824 included in the connector portion 822 in the fourth row shown is higher than the protrusion height H of the second connector portion 824 included in the connector portion 822 in the third row.

[0181] Furthermore, among the multiple second connectors 824 included in the multiple connector portions 822 in the third column, the protrusion height H of the two second connectors 824 included in the connector portions 822 in the second and third rows is equal to that of each other. It should be noted that the protrusion height H of the second connectors 824 included in the connector portions 822 in the second row and the protrusion height H of the second connectors 824 included in the connector portions 822 in the third row can also be different from each other.

[0182] Furthermore, among the multiple second connectors 824 included in the multiple connector portions 822 in the third column, the protrusion height H of the two second connectors 824 included in the connector portions 822 in the first and fourth rows is equal to that of each other. It should be noted that the protrusion height H of the multiple second connectors 824 included in the connector portions 822 in the first row and the protrusion height H of the multiple second connectors 824 included in the multiple connector portions 822 in the fourth row can also be different from each other.

[0183] in addition, Figure 22A ,22B The protrusion height H of the plurality of second connectors 824 included in the plurality of connector portions 822 in columns 2 and 4 shown is equal to that of each other. Furthermore, the protrusion height H of the plurality of second connectors 824 included in the plurality of connector portions 822 in columns 1 and 5 is equal to that of each other.

[0184] In addition, the protrusion height H of the plurality of second patch portions 824 included in the plurality of patch portions 822 in the second and third rows, including the patch portion 822 closest to the light sensor 40, increases as it moves away from the light sensor 40 in the row direction.

[0185] In other words, such as Figure 22B As shown, among the multiple second contact portions 824 included in the multiple contact portions 822 of the second row including the contact portion 822 closest to the light sensor 40, the protrusion height H of the second contact portion 824 included in the contact portion 822 of the third column is the lowest.

[0186] Furthermore, among the multiple second connectors 824 included in the multiple connector portions 822 in the second row, the protrusion height H of the second connectors 824 included in the connector portions 822 in the second and fourth columns is higher than the protrusion height H of the second connectors 824 included in the connector portions 822 in the third column. The protrusion height H of the second connectors 824 included in the connector portions 822 in the second and fourth columns is equal to each other. It should be noted that the protrusion height H of the second connectors 824 included in the connector portions 822 in the second and fourth columns can also be different from each other.

[0187] Furthermore, among the multiple second connectors 824 included in the multiple connector portions 822 in the second row, the protrusion height H of the second connectors 824 included in the connector portions 822 in columns 1 and 5 is higher than the protrusion height H of the second connectors 824 included in the connector portions 822 in columns 2 and 4. The protrusion height H of the second connectors 824 included in the connector portions 822 in columns 1 and 5 is equal to each other. It should be noted that the protrusion height H of the second connectors 824 included in the connector portions 822 in columns 1 and 5 can also be different from each other.

[0188] Furthermore, such as Figure 22A As shown, among the plurality of second contact portions 824 included in the plurality of contact portions 822 in the third row, including the contact portion 822 closest to the light sensor 40, the protrusion height H of the second contact portion 824 included in the contact portion 822 in the third column is the lowest.

[0189] Furthermore, among the multiple second connectors 824 included in the multiple connector portions 822 in the third row, the protrusion height H of the two second connectors 824 included in the connector portions 822 in the second and fourth columns is higher than the protrusion height H of the second connectors 824 included in the connector portions 822 in the third column. The protrusion height H of the two second connectors 824 included in the connector portions 822 in the second and fourth columns is equal to each other. It should be noted that the protrusion height H of the two second connectors 824 included in the connector portions 822 in the second and fourth columns can also be different.

[0190] Furthermore, among the multiple second connectors 824 included in the multiple connector portions 822 in the third row, the protrusion height H of the two second connectors 824 included in the connector portions 822 in columns 1 and 5 is higher than the protrusion height H of the two second connectors 824 included in the connector portions 822 in columns 2 and 4. The protrusion height H of the two second connectors 824 included in the connector portions 822 in columns 1 and 5 is equal to each other. It should be noted that the protrusion height H of the two second connectors 824 included in the connector portions 822 in columns 1 and 5 can also be different from each other.

[0191] In addition, Figure 22B Of the multiple second connectors 824 included in the multiple connector portions 822 in the first row shown, the protrusion height H of the three second connectors 824 included in the connector portions 822 in the second, third, and fourth columns is equal to that of each other. Furthermore, of the multiple second connectors 824 included in the multiple connector portions 822 in the first row, the protrusion height H of the two second connectors 824 included in the connector portions 822 in the first and fifth columns is higher than the protrusion height H of the three second connectors 824 included in the connector portions 822 in the second, third, and fourth columns.

[0192] In addition, Figure 22A Of the multiple second connectors 824 included in the multiple connector portions 822 in the fourth row shown, the protrusion height H of the three second connectors 824 included in the connector portions 822 in the second, third, and fourth columns is equal to that of each other. Furthermore, of the multiple second connectors 824 included in the multiple connector portions 822 in the fourth row, the protrusion height H of the two second connectors 824 included in the connector portions 822 in the first and fifth columns is higher than the protrusion height H of the three second connectors 824 included in the connector portions 822 in the second, third, and fourth columns.

[0193] In this first variation, similar to the fourth embodiment described above, when one of the plurality of second contact portions 824 is observed from the light sensor 40, the protruding end T of that single second contact portion 824 does not overlap with any of the other second contact portions 824. Therefore, the light generated when the second contact portion 824 melts directly reaches the light sensor 40. Consequently, in the battery module 1 equipped with the light sensor 40, the detection accuracy of the light generated when the battery 10 malfunctions can be improved.

[0194] <Second variation of the fourth embodiment>

[0195] Next, regarding the battery module 1 in the second variation of the fourth embodiment, the differences from the battery module 1 in the first variation of the fourth embodiment will be explained.

[0196] Figure 23 This is a side view of the battery module 1 according to the second variation of the fourth embodiment of this disclosure, viewed along the Y direction. The lead plate 920 includes a main body 921 and a plurality of contact portions 922. Similar to the first variation of the fourth embodiment described above, when the main body 921 is viewed in planar view, the light sensor 40 is located between the contact portions 922 in the second row and the contact portions 922 in the third column of the plurality of contact portions 922 via the support portion 931.

[0197] In this second modification, each of the plurality of contact portions 922 comprises a second contact portion group C consisting of two second contact portions 924 of equal height. That is, each of the plurality of first contact portions 923 is electrically connected to the main body portion 921 via a second contact portion group C. In this second modification, the spacing between the two second contact portions 924 in the plurality of second contact portion groups C is equal.

[0198] Figure 23 The positional relationship of the multiple second connector groups C of the multiple connector sections 922 shown is related to... Figure 21 The positions of the plurality of second tab portions 924 involved in the first variation of the fourth embodiment shown above are the same.

[0199] In addition, the multiple second connectors 924 included in the multiple connectors 922 of the third column are in different positions in the row direction and do not overlap when viewed along the column direction.

[0200] In the second column of multiple splice portions 922, the two second splice portion groups C included in the splice portions 922 of rows 2 and 3 are positioned identically to each other in the row direction. Similarly, the two second splice portion groups C included in the splice portions 922 of rows 1 and 4 in the second column of multiple splice portions 922 are positioned identically to each other in the row direction. Furthermore, in the second column of multiple splice portions 922, the multiple second splice portions 924 included in the splice portions 922 of rows 2 and 3 are positioned differently from the multiple second splice portions 924 included in the splice portions 922 of rows 1 and 4 in the row direction, and do not overlap when viewed along the column direction.

[0201] Furthermore, in the plurality of splicing portions 922 in the fourth column, the two second splicing portion groups C included in the splicing portions 922 in the second and third rows are positioned identically to each other in the row direction. Similarly, in the plurality of splicing portions 922 in the fourth column, the two second splicing portion groups C included in the splicing portions 922 in the first and fourth rows are positioned identically to each other in the row direction. Additionally, in the plurality of splicing portions 922 in the fourth column, the plurality of second splicing portions 924 included in the splicing portions 922 in the second and third rows are positioned differently from the plurality of second splicing portions 924 included in the splicing portions 922 in the first and fourth rows, and do not overlap when viewed along the column direction.

[0202] The multiple second connector groups C included in the multiple connector portions 922 of the first column are positioned at the same location in the row direction. The multiple second connector groups C included in the multiple connector portions 922 of the fifth column are positioned at the same location in the row direction. That is, among the multiple second connector portions 924 included in the multiple connector portions 922 of the first and fifth columns, the multiple second connector portions 924 with the same column number are arranged in two columns along the column direction.

[0203] Figure 24A Observed from the light sensor 40 along the column direction Figure 23 The side view of the lead plate 920 shown is a diagram showing the multiple second contact portion groups C included in the multiple contact portions 922 in the third and fourth rows. Figure 24B Observed from the light sensor 40 along the column direction Figure 23 The side view of the lead plate 920 shown is a diagram showing the multiple second contact portion groups C included in the multiple contact portions 922 of the first and second rows.

[0204] Figure 24A , 24B The relationship between the protrusion height H of the plurality of second connectors 924 included in the plurality of connectors 922 shown and the plurality of second connectors 924 provided by the plurality of second connectors 924 is as follows: Figure 22A , 22B The relationship between the protrusion height H of the plurality of second tab portions 924 involved in the first variation of the fourth embodiment shown above is the same.

[0205] In other words, Figure 24A , 24B The protrusion height H of the second contact portion 924 of the plurality of second contact portions C included in the plurality of contact portions 922 in the third column, including the contact portion 922 closest to the light sensor 40, increases as it moves away from the light sensor 40 in the column direction.

[0206] Furthermore, the protrusion height H of the plurality of second connectors 924 included in the plurality of connector portions 922 in columns 2 and 4 is equal to that of each other. Furthermore, the protrusion height H of the plurality of second connectors 924 included in the plurality of connector portions 922 in columns 1 and 5 is also equal to that of each other.

[0207] Furthermore, among the multiple second contact portion groups C included in the second and third rows of contact portions 922, including the contact portion 922 closest to the light sensor 40, the protrusion height H of the two second contact portions 924 of the second contact portion group C that is further away from the light sensor 40 in the two adjacent second contact portion groups C in the row direction is higher than the protrusion height H of the two second contact portions 924 of the second contact portion group C that is closer to the light sensor 40.

[0208] In other words, among the multiple second connector groups C included in the multiple connector portions 922 in the second and third rows, the protrusion height H of the second connector portion 924 included in the connector portion 922 in the third column is the lowest.

[0209] Furthermore, among the multiple second contact portion groups C included in the multiple contact portions 922 in rows 2 and 3, the protrusion height H of the multiple second contact portions 924 included in the contact portions 922 in columns 2 and 4 is higher than the protrusion height H of the multiple second contact portions 924 included in the contact portions 922 in column 3. The protrusion height H of the multiple second contact portions 924 included in the contact portions 922 in columns 2 and 4 is equal to each other. It should be noted that the protrusion height H of the multiple second contact portions 924 included in the contact portions 922 in columns 2 and 4 can also be different from each other.

[0210] Furthermore, among the multiple second connector groups C included in the multiple connector portions 922 in rows 2 and 3, the protrusion height H of the multiple second connector portions 924 included in the connector portions 922 in columns 1 and 5 is higher than the protrusion height H of the multiple second connector portions 924 included in the connector portions 922 in columns 2 and 4. The protrusion height H of the multiple second connector portions 924 included in the connector portions 922 in columns 1 and 5 is equal to each other. It should be noted that the protrusion height H of the multiple second connector portions 924 included in the connector portions 922 in columns 1 and 5 can also be different from each other.

[0211] Furthermore, in the second connector group C included in the plurality of connectors 922 in rows 1 and 4, the protrusion height H of the plurality of second connectors 924 included in the connectors 922 in columns 2, 3 and 4 is equal to that of each other.

[0212] Furthermore, in the second connector group C included in the plurality of connector portions 922 in rows 1 and 4, the protrusion height H of the plurality of second connector portions 924 included in the connector portions 922 in columns 1 and 5 is higher than the protrusion height H of the plurality of second connector portions 924 included in the connector portions 922 in columns 2, 3, and 4. The protrusion height H of the plurality of second connector portions 924 included in the connector portions 922 in columns 1 and 5 is equal to that of each other. It should be noted that the protrusion height H of the plurality of second connector portions 924 included in the connector portions 922 in columns 1 and 5 can also be different from each other.

[0213] In this second modification, similar to the first modification of the fourth embodiment described above, when one of the plurality of second contact portions 924 is observed from the light sensor 40, the protruding end T of that one second contact portion 924 does not overlap with the other second contact portions 924 among the plurality of second contact portions 924. Therefore, the light generated when the second contact portion 924 melts directly reaches the light sensor 40. Consequently, in the battery module 1 equipped with the light sensor 40, the detection accuracy of the light generated when the battery 10 malfunctions can be improved.

[0214] <Fifth Implementation Method>

[0215] Next, regarding the battery module 1 according to the fifth embodiment, the differences from the battery module 1 according to the first embodiment will be explained.

[0216] Figure 25 This is a side view of the battery module 1 according to the fifth embodiment of this disclosure when viewed along the Y direction. Figure 26 yes Figure 25 A partially enlarged view of battery module 1 shown. Figure 27 It is observed along the column direction. Figure 25 The side view of the lead plate 1020 shown.

[0217] In this fifth embodiment, the protrusion height H of the plurality of second tab portions 1024 are equal to each other. Furthermore, the position of the second tab portion 1024 in each of the plurality of tab portions 1022 is determined as follows: When the first end P1 is defined as being located at the light-receiving portion 41 of the light sensor 40 and the second end P2 is defined as being located at the virtual line L of the ridge line R including the protruding end T of the second tab portion 1024, the second tab portion 1024 is positioned such that when the main body portion 1021 is viewed in a plane, the plurality of virtual lines L corresponding to the plurality of second tab portions 1024 do not intersect outside the first end P1 of the virtual line L.

[0218] It should be noted that, in Figure 25 , 26 Of the multiple virtual lines L shown, the first end P1 is located at the center of the light-receiving portion 41, and the second end P2 is located at the center of the ridge line R including the protruding end T of the second bonding portion 1024. It should be noted that the first end P1 of the virtual line L may also be located outside the center of the light-receiving portion 41. Furthermore, the second end P2 of the virtual line L may also be located outside the center of the ridge line R including the protruding end T of the second bonding portion 1024.

[0219] like Figure 25 , 27 As shown, the multiple second contact portions 1024 included in the multiple contact portions 1022 with the same column number are located at different positions in the row direction. In addition, in the multiple contact portions 1022 in the first row including the contact portion 1022 closest to the light sensor 40, the first end of the second contact portion 1024 is electrically connected to the +Z side portion of the first contact portion 1023, and the second end of the second contact portion 1024 is electrically connected to the +Z side portion of the through hole 1021a.

[0220] Furthermore, among the multiple connector portions 1022 in rows 2, 3, and 4, the first end of the second connector portion 1024 is electrically connected to the -Z side portion of the first connector portion 1023, and the second end of the second connector portion 1024 is electrically connected to the -Z side portion of the through hole 1021a.

[0221] In this fifth embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment described above, when one of the plurality of second contact portions 1024 is observed from the light sensor 40, the protruding end T of that single second contact portion 1024 does not overlap with any of the other second contact portions 1024. Therefore, the light generated when the second contact portion 1024 melts directly reaches the light sensor 40. Consequently, in the battery module 1 equipped with the light sensor 40, the detection accuracy of the light generated when the battery 10 malfunctions can be improved.

[0222] <Modifications of the Fifth Embodiment>

[0223] Next, regarding the battery module 1 in the modified example of the fifth embodiment, the differences from the battery module 1 in the fifth embodiment described above will be explained.

[0224] Figure 28 This is a side view of the battery module 1 according to a modified example of the fifth embodiment of this disclosure, viewed along the Y direction. The lead plate 1120 includes a main body 1121 and a plurality of contact portions 1122.

[0225] In this modified example, the patch portion 1122 in the 4th row and 3rd column has a second patch portion 1124. In addition, the patch portions 1122 other than the patch portion 1122 in the 4th row and 3rd column have a group of second patch portions C.

[0226] In this modified example, the positions of the second patch portion 1124 included in the patch portion 1122 of the 4th row and the 3rd column, and the multiple second patch portion groups C included in the multiple patch portions 1122 other than the patch portion 1122 of the 4th row and the 3rd column, as well as the interval between the two second patch portions 1124 of the second patch portion group C, are determined such that when the main body portion 1121 is viewed in a plane, the multiple virtual lines L corresponding to the multiple second patch portions 1124 do not intersect outside the first end P1 of the virtual line L.

[0227] Specifically, among the plurality of contact portions 1122 in the third column, including the contact portion 1122 closest to the light sensor 40, the spacing between the two second contact portions 1124 of the second contact portion group C of the contact portions 1122 in the first, second, and third rows narrows along the Z direction from the -Z side to the +Z side. As a result, the plurality of second contact portions 1124 of the plurality of contact portions 1122 in the third column are arranged in a V-shape when the main body portion 1121 is viewed in a planar view, and do not overlap when viewed along the column direction.

[0228] Furthermore, among the multiple second patch group Cs included in the multiple patch portions 1122 in columns 2 and 4, the second patch group C in rows 1 and 4 has the same spacing between two second patch portions 1124 and overlaps when viewed along the column direction. Among the multiple second patch group Cs included in the multiple patch portions 1122 in columns 2 and 4, the second patch group C in row 2 has a larger spacing between two second patch portions 1124 than the spacing between two second patch portions 1124 in the second patch group C in rows 1 and 4, and is located at a different position in the column direction from the second patch group C in rows 1 and 4.

[0229] Furthermore, among the multiple second patch group Cs included in the multiple patch portions 1122 in columns 2 and 4, the second patch group C in row 3 has the same spacing between two second patch portions 1124 as the spacing between two second patch portions 1124 in the second patch group C in rows 1 and 4, and is located in a different position in the column direction from the second patch group C in rows 1, 2, and 4. That is, among the multiple second patch group Cs included in the multiple patch portions 1122 in columns 2 and 4, the second patch group C in rows 1 and 4 overlaps with each other when viewed in the column direction, but does not overlap with the second patch group C in rows 2 and 3 when viewed in the column direction.

[0230] Furthermore, among the multiple second patch group Cs included in the multiple patch sections 1122 in columns 1 and 5, the multiple second patch group Cs included in the patch sections 1122 with the same column number have the same interval between two second patch sections 1124 and overlap when viewed along the column direction.

[0231] In addition, among the plurality of contact portions 1122 in the first row, including the contact portion 1122 closest to the light sensor 40, the first end of the second contact portion 1124 is electrically connected to the +Z side portion of the first contact portion 1123, and the second end of the second contact portion 1124 is electrically connected to the +Z side portion of the through hole 1121a.

[0232] Furthermore, among the multiple connector portions 1122 in rows 2, 3, and 4, the first end of the second connector portion 1124 is electrically connected to the -Z side portion of the first connector portion 1123, and the second end of the second connector portion 1124 is electrically connected to the -Z side portion of the through hole 1121a.

[0233] In this modified example, similarly to the first embodiment described above, when one of the plurality of second contact portions 1124 is observed from the light sensor 40, the protruding end T of that single second contact portion 1124 does not overlap with any of the other second contact portions 1124. Therefore, the light generated when the second contact portion 1124 melts directly reaches the light sensor 40. Consequently, in the battery module 1 equipped with the light sensor 40, the detection accuracy of the light generated when the battery 10 malfunctions can be improved.

[0234] <Sixth Implementation Method>

[0235] Next, regarding the battery module 1 according to the sixth embodiment, the differences from the battery module 1 according to the fourth embodiment will be explained.

[0236] Figure 29 This is a side view of the battery module 1 according to the sixth embodiment of this disclosure, viewed along the Y direction. The lead plate 1220 includes a main body 1221 and a plurality of contact portions 1222.

[0237] In this sixth embodiment, similar to the fourth embodiment described above, when the main body 1221 is viewed from a plane, the light sensor 40 is located at the center of the main body 1221 via the support portion 1231. Furthermore, similar to the fifth embodiment described above, the protrusion height H of the plurality of second tab portions 1224 is equal to that of each other.

[0238] Furthermore, in this sixth embodiment, the position of the second connector 1224 is determined such that when the main body 1221 is viewed in a plane, the multiple virtual lines L corresponding to the multiple second connectors 1224 do not intersect outside the first end P1 of the virtual line L.

[0239] In the plurality of patch portions 1222 in the third column, including the patch portion 1222 closest to the light sensor 40, the two second patch portions 1224 included in the patch portions 1222 in the third and fourth rows do not overlap when viewed along the column direction. Furthermore, in the plurality of patch portions 1222 in the third column, the two second patch portions 1224 included in the patch portions 1222 in the first and second rows do not overlap when viewed along the column direction.

[0240] Furthermore, among the multiple splice portions 1222 in the third column, the two second splice portions 1224 included in the splice portions 1222 in the second and fourth rows overlap when viewed along the column direction. It should be noted that the two second splice portions 1224 included in the splice portions 1222 in the second and fourth rows may also not overlap when viewed along the column direction. Furthermore, among the multiple splice portions 1222 in the third column, the two second splice portions 1224 included in the splice portions 1222 in the first and third rows overlap when viewed along the column direction. It should be noted that the two second splice portions 1224 included in the splice portions 1222 in the first and third rows may also not overlap when viewed along the column direction.

[0241] In addition, among the multiple splicing portions 1222 in columns 1, 2, 4, and 5, the multiple second splicing portions 1224 included in the multiple splicing portions 1222 with the same column number are arranged along the column direction.

[0242] Furthermore, in the plurality of contact portions 1222 in rows 1 and 3, the first end of the second contact portion 1224 is electrically connected to the +Z side portion of the first contact portion 1223, and the second end of the second contact portion 1224 is electrically connected to the +Z side portion of the through hole 1221a. In the plurality of contact portions 1222 in rows 2 and 4, the first end of the second contact portion 1224 is electrically connected to the -Z side portion of the first contact portion 1223, and the second end of the second contact portion 1224 is electrically connected to the -Z side portion of the through hole 1221a.

[0243] In this sixth embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment described above, when one of the plurality of second contact portions 1224 is observed from the light sensor 40, the protruding end T of that single second contact portion 1224 does not overlap with any of the other second contact portions 1224. Therefore, the light generated when the second contact portion 1224 melts directly reaches the light sensor 40. Consequently, in the battery module 1 equipped with the light sensor 40, the detection accuracy of the light generated when the battery 10 malfunctions can be improved.

[0244] <Modifications of the Sixth Embodiment>

[0245] Next, regarding the battery module 1 in the modified example of the sixth embodiment, the differences from the battery module 1 in the sixth embodiment described above will be explained.

[0246] Figure 30 This is a side view of the battery module 1 according to a modified example of the sixth embodiment of this disclosure, viewed along the Y direction. The lead plate 1320 includes a main body 1321 and a plurality of contact portions 1322.

[0247] In this modified example, each of the plurality of splice portions 1322 has a second splice portion group C. In this modified example, the position of the second splice portion group C and the spacing between the two second splice portions 1324 in the second splice portion group C are determined such that when the main body portion 1321 is viewed in a plane, the plurality of virtual lines L corresponding to the plurality of second splice portions 1324 do not intersect outside the first end P1 of the virtual line L.

[0248] Specifically, among the multiple splice sections 1322 with the same column number, the two second splice section groups C included in the splice sections 1322 in the 3rd and 4th rows do not overlap when viewed along the column direction. In addition, among the multiple splice sections 1322 in the 3rd column, the two second splice section groups C included in the splice sections 1322 in the 1st and 2nd rows do not overlap when viewed along the column direction.

[0249] Furthermore, among the multiple splice sections 1322 with the same column number, the two second splice section groups C included in the splice sections 1322 of rows 1 and 4 overlap when viewed along the column direction. It should be noted that the two second splice section groups C included in the splice sections 1322 of rows 1 and 4 may also not overlap when viewed along the column direction. Additionally, among the multiple splice sections 1322 with the same column number, the two second splice section groups C included in the splice sections 1322 of rows 2 and 3 overlap when viewed along the column direction. It should be noted that the two second splice section groups C included in the splice sections 1322 of rows 2 and 3 may also not overlap when viewed along the column direction.

[0250] Furthermore, in the plurality of contact portions 1322 in rows 1 and 3 and in row 2 and column 3, the first end of the second contact portion 1324 is electrically connected to the +Z side of the first contact portion 1323, and the second end of the second contact portion 1324 is electrically connected to the +Z side of the through hole 1321a. In the plurality of contact portions 1322 in rows 2 and 4, excluding the contact portions 1322 in row 2 and column 3, the first end of the second contact portion 1324 is electrically connected to the -Z side of the first contact portion 1323, and the second end of the second contact portion 1324 is electrically connected to the -Z side of the through hole 1321a.

[0251] In this modified example, similar to the sixth embodiment described above, when one of the plurality of second contact portions 1324 is observed from the light sensor 40, the protruding end T of that single second contact portion 1324 does not overlap with any of the other second contact portions 1324. Therefore, the light generated when the second contact portion 1324 melts directly reaches the light sensor 40. Consequently, in the battery module 1 equipped with the light sensor 40, the detection accuracy of the light generated when the battery 10 malfunctions can be improved.

[0252] <Seventh Implementation Method>

[0253] Next, regarding the battery module 1 according to the seventh embodiment, the differences from the battery module 1 according to the first embodiment will be explained.

[0254] Figure 31A This is a perspective view of the battery module 1 according to the seventh embodiment of this disclosure, viewed from the +Y side. Figure 31B Viewed from the -Y side Figure 31A The image shows a perspective view of battery module 1. It should be noted that... Figure 31A and Figure 31B In this version, the control board 30 and the light sensor 40 are omitted.

[0255] Hereinafter, the lead plate 1420 disposed on the +Y side of the battery 10 will be designated as "lead plate 1420a" and the lead plate 1420 disposed on the -Y side of the battery 10 will be designated as "lead plate 1420b".

[0256] Lead plate 1420a includes a main body 1421a and multiple contact portions 1422a. The main body 1421a has multiple through holes 1421aa. Lead plate 1420b includes a main body 1421b and multiple contact portions 1422b. The main body 1421b has multiple through holes 1421ab.

[0257] In this seventh embodiment, the number of batteries 10 is 16. Four batteries 10 are arranged along the X direction. Four batteries 10 are arranged along the Z direction. Therefore, the number of through holes 1421aa and 1421ab, and the number of contact portions 1422a and 1422b are both 16. Furthermore, the number of rows and columns of through holes 1421aa and 1421ab, and the number of rows and columns of contact portions 1422a and 1422b are both 4.

[0258] In this seventh embodiment, the main body portions 1421a and 1421b are divided. The main body portion 1421a in this seventh embodiment is divided into two parts, having a first portion 1421ca and a second portion 1421da.

[0259] The first portion 1421ca corresponds to one or more batteries 10 among a plurality of batteries 10. In this seventh embodiment, the first portion 1421ca has multiple through holes 1421aa corresponding to multiple contact portions 1422a in the first and second columns of the plurality of contact portions 1422a, which are electrically connected to each other. That is, the first portion 1421ca corresponds to eight batteries 10 electrically connected to the multiple contact portions 1422a in the first and second columns.

[0260] The second portion 1421da corresponds to one or more batteries 10 other than the battery 10 electrically connected to the first portion 1421ca. In this seventh embodiment, the second portion 1421da has multiple through holes 1421aa corresponding to multiple contact portions 1422a in the third and fourth columns of the multiple contact portions 1422a, which are electrically connected to each other. That is, the second portion 1421da corresponds to eight batteries 10 electrically connected to the multiple contact portions 1422a in the third and fourth columns.

[0261] In addition, the main body 1421b of this seventh embodiment is divided into three parts, having a first part 1421cb, a second part 1421db, and a third part 1421eb.

[0262] The first portion 1421cb corresponds to one or more batteries 10 among a plurality of batteries 10. The first portion 1421cb has a plurality of contact portions 1422b in a first column and a plurality of through holes 1421ab corresponding to the plurality of contact portions 1422b in the first column. That is, the first portion 1421cb corresponds to four batteries 10 electrically connected to the plurality of contact portions 1422b in the first column.

[0263] The second portion 1421db corresponds to one or more batteries 10 other than the battery 10 electrically connected to the first portion 1421cb. The second portion 1421db has multiple contact portions 1422b in the second and third columns and multiple through holes 1421ab corresponding to the multiple contact portions 1422b in the second and third columns. That is, the second portion 1421db corresponds to eight batteries 10 electrically connected to the multiple contact portions 1422b in the second and third columns.

[0264] The third portion 1421eb corresponds to one or more batteries 10 other than the batteries 10 electrically connected to the first portion 1421cb and the second portion 1421db. The third portion 1421eb has a plurality of tabs 1422b in a fourth column and a plurality of through holes 1421ab corresponding to the plurality of tabs 1422b in the fourth column. The third portion 1421eb corresponds to four batteries 10 electrically connected to the plurality of tabs 1422b in the fourth column.

[0265] It should be noted that the number of batteries 10, the number of contact portions 1422a and 1422b, and the number of through holes 1421aa and 1421ab in the first portion 1421ca, second portion 1421da, first portion 1421cb, second portion 1421db, and third portion 1421eb are not limited to those described above. Furthermore, the shapes of the first portion 1421ca, second portion 1421da, first portion 1421cb, second portion 1421db, and third portion 1421eb vary depending on the arrangement of the batteries 10 and the number of batteries 10 electrically connected.

[0266] Similar to the first embodiment described above, when viewing the main body portions 1421a and 1421b in a planar orientation, the light sensor 40 of this seventh embodiment is located further outward in the column direction than the plurality of second contact portions 1424a and 1424b. It should be noted that, similar to the fourth embodiment described above, when viewing the main body portions 1421a and 1421b in a planar orientation, the light sensor 40 may also be located at the center of the main body portions 1421a and 1421b. In this case, the plurality of second contact portions 1424a and 1424b are arranged in the same manner as in the fourth embodiment described above.

[0267] According to the lead plates 1420a and 1420b of this seventh embodiment, compared to the case where the main body portions 1421a and 1421b are not divided, the electrical connections of multiple batteries 10 can be changed. In other words, in the battery module 1 of this seventh embodiment, the electrical connections of multiple batteries 10 can be configured as multiple parallel and multiple series connections. Furthermore, in this seventh embodiment, similar to the first embodiment described above, when one of the multiple second contact portions 1424a and 1424b is observed from the light sensor 40, the protruding end T of that single second contact portion 1424a and 1424b does not overlap with the other second contact portions 1424a and 1424b besides that single second contact portion 1424a and 1424b. Therefore, the light generated when the second contact portions 1424a and 1424b melt directly reaches the light sensor 40. Therefore, in the battery module 1 equipped with the light sensor 40, the detection accuracy of the light generated when the battery 10 malfunctions can be improved.

[0268] <Variations on each implementation method>

[0269] It should be noted that the above embodiments and variations are for the purpose of making this disclosure easier to understand, and are not intended to limit the interpretation of this disclosure. This disclosure can be modified and improved without departing from its spirit, and this disclosure also includes its equivalents.

[0270] Figure 32 This is a perspective view of the contact portion 1522 of the battery module 1 according to other variations of the embodiments of this disclosure. The contact portion 1522 includes a first contact portion 1523 and a second contact portion 1524.

[0271] In this other variation, the second contact portion 1524 has a conductive portion 1524a and a notch portion 1524b at the protruding end TP including the protruding end T. Through the notch portion 1524b, the cross-sectional area of ​​the second contact portion 1524, which is orthogonal to the extending direction of the second contact portion 1524, is minimized at the conductive portion 1524a. Therefore, in the event of an abnormality in the battery 10 that generates an overcurrent, the protruding end TP of the second contact portion 1524 reliably melts and emits light.

[0272] Furthermore, as described above, when one of the plurality of second contact portions 1524 is observed from the light sensor 40, the protruding end T of that single second contact portion 1524 does not overlap with any of the other second contact portions 1524. Therefore, the light generated when the second contact portion 1524 melts reliably and directly reaches the light sensor 40. Consequently, the light sensor 40 reliably detects the light generated when the second contact portion 1524 melts. Thus, in the battery module 1 equipped with the light sensor 40, the detection accuracy of light generated when the battery 10 malfunctions can be improved.

[0273] <Examples of the composition of this disclosure>

[0274] It should be noted that this disclosure may also be a combination of the following structures. (1)

[0276] A battery module, comprising:

[0277] Multiple batteries, with terminals;

[0278] A lead plate, positioned opposite the terminals of the battery, and electrically connected to each of the plurality of batteries; and

[0279] Optical sensor,

[0280] The lead plate is integrally provided with:

[0281] The plate-shaped main body is provided with multiple through holes that overlap with the terminals of the battery when viewed in plan view; and

[0282] Multiple splicing sections,

[0283] The plurality of said splice portions respectively have:

[0284] The plate-shaped first contact portion, when viewed in plan view of the main body, is positioned further inward than the periphery of the through hole and is electrically connected to the terminals of the battery; and

[0285] The second connector electrically connects the first connector to the main body.

[0286] The first end of the second contact portion is electrically connected to a portion of the periphery of the first contact portion, the second end of the second contact portion is electrically connected to a portion of the periphery of the through hole, and the second contact portion has a shape that protrudes from the main body portion to a side opposite to the battery side.

[0287] When the main body is viewed from the side, the light sensor is located on the opposite side of the battery, separated from the main body. (2)

[0289] According to the battery module described in (1), wherein,

[0290] The cross-sectional area of ​​the second connector portion, which is orthogonal to the extension direction of the second connector portion, is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the first connector portion along the thickness direction. (3)

[0292] According to the battery module described in (1) or (2), wherein,

[0293] The second tab portion is a U-shaped cross-section that protrudes from the main body portion toward the side opposite to the battery side and opens the battery side. (4)

[0295] According to any one of (1) to (3), the battery module wherein,

[0296] When one of the plurality of second contact portions is observed from the optical sensor, the protruding end of the one second contact portion does not overlap with any of the other second contact portions other than the one second contact portion. (5)

[0298] According to any one of (1) to (4) of the battery module, wherein,

[0299] The plurality of second contact portions include two second contact portions at different distances from the optical sensor.

[0300] Of the two second contact portions, the protrusion height of the second contact portion that is further away from the light sensor is greater than the protrusion height of the second contact portion that is closer to the light sensor. (6)

[0302] According to any one of (1) to (5) of the battery module, wherein,

[0303] When the main body is viewed in a planar view, the plurality of the connecting pieces are arranged in a matrix along the row and column directions.

[0304] The protrusion height of the plurality of second tabs increases as they move away from the light sensor in the column direction. (7)

[0306] According to the battery module described in (6), wherein,

[0307] The protruding heights of the plurality of second connectors included in the plurality of connectors in the same row of the plurality of connectors are equal to each other. (8)

[0309] According to the battery module described in (6), wherein,

[0310] The protrusion height of the plurality of second tabs increases as they move away from the light sensor in the row direction. (9)

[0312] According to any one of (6) to (8), the battery module wherein,

[0313] The multiple second connectors included in the multiple connectors in the same column of the multiple connectors are located at different positions in the row direction. (10)

[0315] According to the battery module described in (4), wherein,

[0316] The protruding heights of the multiple second connector portions are equal to each other. (11)

[0318] According to any one of (6) to (9), the battery module wherein,

[0319] When the main body is viewed in a plane, the light sensor is located further outward in the column direction than the plurality of second tabs. (12)

[0321] According to any one of (1) to (10) the battery module, wherein,

[0322] When the main body is viewed in a plane, the light sensor is located in the center of the main body. (13)

[0324] According to any one of (1) to (12), the battery module wherein,

[0325] The plurality of splice portions include splice portions having one first splice portion and two second splice portions. (14)

[0327] According to any one of (1) to (13) of the battery module, wherein,

[0328] The main body comprises:

[0329] The first portion corresponds to one or more of the plurality of said batteries; and

[0330] The second part is separate from the first part and corresponds to one or more of the batteries other than the batteries electrically connected to the first part. (15)

[0332] According to any one of (1) to (14) of the battery module, wherein,

[0333] The second connector has a notch at its protruding end.

Claims

1. A battery module, characterized by, Possessing: a plurality of batteries having terminals; a lead plate disposed at a position opposite the terminals of the batteries and electrically connected to each of the plurality of batteries; and a light sensor, the lead plate integrally possesses: a plate-shaped main body portion in which a plurality of through-holes that overlap the terminals of the batteries when viewed in plan are disposed; and a plurality of tab portions, the plurality of tab portions each possess: a plate-shaped first tab portion that is positioned more inward than the periphery of the through-holes when the main body portion is viewed in plan and is electrically connected to the terminals of the batteries; and a second tab portion that electrically connects the first tab portion and the main body portion, a first end of the second tab portion is electrically connected to a portion of the periphery of the first tab portion, a second end of the second tab portion is electrically connected to a portion of the periphery of the through-hole, and the second tab portion is shaped so as to protrude from the main body portion toward a side opposite the battery side, the light sensor is positioned on a side opposite the battery side from the main body portion when the main body portion is viewed in side elevation.

2. The battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that, a cross-sectional area of the second tab portion orthogonal to a direction of extension of the second tab portion is smaller than a cross-sectional area of the first tab portion in a thickness direction.

3. The battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that, the second tab portion is a cross-sectional U-shaped portion that protrudes from the main body portion toward a side opposite the battery side and leaves the battery side open.

4. The battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that, in a case where one of the plurality of second tab portions is viewed from the light sensor, a protruding end of the one of the plurality of second tab portions does not overlap other second tab portions than the one of the plurality of second tab portions.

5. The battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that, the plurality of second tab portions include two second tab portions that are different from each other in distance from the light sensor, of the two second tab portions, the second tab portion that is farther from the light sensor is higher in protruding height than the second tab portion that is closer to the light sensor.

6. The battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that, when the main body portion is viewed in plan, the plurality of tab portions are arranged in a matrix shape in each of a row direction and a column direction, the plurality of second tab portions are higher in protruding height as they are farther from the light sensor in the column direction.

7. The battery module according to claim 6, characterized in that, the plurality of second tab portions included in the plurality of tab portions of the same row are equal to each other in protruding height.

8. The battery module according to claim 6, characterized in that, the plurality of second tab portions are higher in protruding height as they are farther from the light sensor in the row direction.

9. The battery module according to claim 6, characterized in that, the plurality of second tab portions included in the plurality of tab portions of the same column are positioned at different positions from each other in the row direction.

10. The battery module according to claim 4, wherein the protrusion heights of the plurality of second tab portions are equal to each other.

11. The battery module according to claim 6, wherein the light sensor is positioned at a position that is further outward than the plurality of second tab portions in the column direction when the main body portion is viewed in plan.

12. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the light sensor is positioned at a central portion of the main body portion when the main body portion is viewed in plan.

13. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of tab portions include the tab portion that includes one first tab portion and a plurality of second tab portions.

14. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the main body portion includes: a first portion that corresponds to one or more of the plurality of batteries; and a second portion that is separate from the first portion and that corresponds to one or more of the plurality of batteries other than the batteries electrically connected to the first portion.

15. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the second tab portion has a notch portion at a protruding end portion.

Images