Electricity storage device

Abstract

The utility model relates to an electrical storage device. A power storage device is provided with: at least one power storage unit including a relief valve disposed on the lower surface; a lower case including a bottom surface located below the at least one power storage unit; a space forming member provided between the bottom surface of the lower case and the at least one power storage unit, the space forming member forming a space together with the bottom surface of the lower case; and a support member that supports the space forming member and receives the jet flow discharged from the relief valve. The space forming member has a through hole provided below the relief valve.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to energy storage devices. Background Technology

[0002] For example, Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-525014 discloses a power battery pack comprising multiple individual cells and a housing. External terminals and explosion-proof valves are provided on the side of the casing of each individual cell. Utility Model Content

[0003] In the power battery pack described in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-525014, when a short circuit or the like occurs in any of the individual cells, high-temperature gas flows out from the explosion-proof valve in that cell. At this time, there is a concern that contents of the individual cell (so-called fragments) may be discharged through the explosion-proof valve and adhere to the external terminals.

[0004] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide an energy storage device capable of suppressing the adhesion of contents of the energy storage unit contained in the gas discharged from the safety valve SV to the energy storage unit.

[0005] An energy storage device according to one aspect of this disclosure includes: at least one energy storage unit, the at least one energy storage unit including a safety valve disposed on a lower surface; a lower housing including a bottom surface located below the at least one energy storage unit; a space forming member disposed between the bottom surface of the lower housing and the at least one energy storage unit, forming a space together with the bottom surface of the lower housing; and a support member supporting the space forming member and receiving jet gas discharged from the safety valve, the space forming member having an opening disposed below the safety valve.

[0006] The above and other objects, features, aspects and advantages of this invention will become clear from the following detailed description relating to this invention, which will be understood in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a vehicle equipped with an energy storage device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0008] Figure 2 It is a three-dimensional drawing that roughly represents the energy storage device and its frame components.

[0009] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A sectional view along line III-III.

[0010] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A cross-sectional view along line IV-IV.

[0011] Figure 5 This is an enlarged sectional view of the supporting component.

[0012] Figure 6 It is a three-dimensional diagram that roughly represents the supporting components.

[0013] Figure 7 This is a top view that roughly represents the cooler.

[0014] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of line VIII-VIII in the diagram.

[0015] Figure 9 It is a cross-sectional view that roughly shows a modified example of the space-forming component and the supporting component.

[0016] Figure 10 It is a cross-sectional view that roughly shows a modified example of the space-forming component and the supporting component.

[0017] Figure 11 It is a cross-sectional view that roughly shows a modified example of the space-forming component and the supporting component. Detailed Implementation

[0018] Embodiments of this disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that in the drawings referred to below, the same or equivalent components are labeled with the same reference numerals.

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a vehicle equipped with an energy storage device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 It is a three-dimensional drawing that roughly represents the energy storage device and its frame components. Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A sectional view along line III-III. Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A cross-sectional view along line IV-IV.

[0020] like Figure 1 As shown, vehicle 1 includes a vehicle body 2 and an electric storage device 10. Examples of vehicles 1 include hybrid electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and battery electric vehicles.

[0021] like Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 As shown, the vehicle body 2 includes a frame component 20. The frame component 20 is disposed at the bottom of the vehicle body 2. The frame component 20 has a pair of first frames 21, a pair of second frames 22, a first crossbeam 23, and a second crossbeam 24.

[0022] A pair of first frames 21 face each other in a first direction. Each first frame 21 has a shape extending along a second direction orthogonal to both the first direction and the vertical direction. For example, the first direction may be parallel to the front-rear direction of the vehicle 1, and the second direction may be parallel to the left-right direction (width direction) of the vehicle 1.

[0023] A pair of second frames 22 face each other in a second direction. Each second frame 22 has a shape that extends along a first direction. The ends of each second frame 22 in the first direction are connected to the first frame 21. The pair of second frames 22 and the pair of first frames 21 together form a generally square cylindrical shape that surrounds the energy storage device 10.

[0024] The first crossbeam 23 is disposed between a pair of first frames 21 and connects a pair of second frames 22 to each other.

[0025] The second crossbeam 24 is disposed between a pair of first frames 21 and connects a pair of second frames 22 to each other. The second crossbeam 24 is separate from the first crossbeam 23 in a first direction. The first crossbeam 23 and the second crossbeam 24 respectively constitute, for example, a seat crossbeam.

[0026] The energy storage device 10 is mounted on the frame component 20. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the energy storage device 10 is positioned below the first crossbeam 23 and the second crossbeam 24. Figures 1-4 As shown, the energy storage device 10 includes four energy storage stacks 11-14, a cooler 200, a frame 300, a reinforcing component 620, and an equipment unit 800. It should be noted that the number of energy storage stacks is not limited to four.

[0027] Each energy storage stack 11-14 includes at least one energy storage unit 100. In this embodiment, each energy storage stack 11-14 includes a plurality (e.g., 50) of energy storage units 100 arranged in a manner along a first direction. Each energy storage stack 11-14 is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape that is longer in the first direction. Figure 2 As shown, the four energy storage stacks 11 to 14 are arranged along the second direction.

[0028] like Figure 3 As shown, on both sides of the plurality of energy storage units 100 in the first direction, a pair of end plates 51 are provided to clamp the plurality of energy storage units 100 from both sides in the first direction. On the outer side of each end plate 51 in the first direction, a monitoring unit (Smart Battery Management) 52 is arranged.

[0029] like Figure 4As shown, each energy storage unit 100 has a shape in which the length in the second direction is greater than the length in the first direction and the length in the vertical direction. Each energy storage unit 100 has an electrode body 110, a unit housing 120, and a pair of external terminals 130.

[0030] The electrode body 110 can be formed by winding a positive electrode sheet and a negative electrode sheet with a separator in between, or by stacking a positive electrode sheet and a negative electrode sheet with a separator in between. The electrode body 110 is formed into a shape that is longer in the second direction.

[0031] The unit housing 120 houses the electrode body 110. The unit housing 120 is formed in a cuboid shape. The unit housing 120 has a shape in which the length in the second direction is greater than the length in the first direction and the length in the vertical direction. The unit housing 120 is made of a metal such as aluminum. The unit housing 120 includes a valve mounting surface 121 and a terminal mounting surface 122.

[0032] A safety valve SV is provided on the valve mounting surface 121. In this embodiment, the valve mounting surface 121 is formed by the lower surface of the unit housing 120. That is, the safety valve SV is provided on the lower surface of the unit housing 120 in the energy storage unit 100. It should be noted that... Figure 4 In the diagram, a double-dotted line indicates the direction of gas discharge from safety valve SV.

[0033] An external terminal 130 is provided on the terminal mounting surface 122. In this embodiment, the terminal mounting surface 122 is formed by the side of the unit housing 120 in the second direction.

[0034] Each external terminal 130 is disposed on the terminal mounting surface 122 of the unit housing 120 (in this embodiment, the side surface in the second direction). One of the pair of external terminals 130 is disposed on the terminal mounting surface 122 on one side of the unit housing 120 in the second direction. The other of the pair of external terminals 130 is disposed on the terminal mounting surface 122 on the other side of the unit housing 120 in the second direction.

[0035] The cooler 200 cools at least one energy storage unit 100. In this embodiment, the cooler 200 cools each energy storage stack 11 to 14. A cooling medium (oil, etc.) flows within the cooler 200.

[0036] Figure 7 This is a top view that roughly represents the cooler. Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of line VIII-VIII in the diagram. (See also:) Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 As shown, the cooler 200 has four cooling sections 210, a deflection section 220, and a connecting section 230.

[0037] Each cooling section 210 has a shape that extends relatively long along a first direction. Each cooling section 210 cools one battery pack. It should be noted that, in Figure 7 In the diagram, each of the energy storage stacks, numbered 11 to 14, is indicated by a double-dotted line. For example... Figure 4 As shown, each cooling section 210 is in thermal contact with the valve mounting surface 121 of each energy storage unit 100. Each cooling section 210 contacts the valve mounting surface 121 of each energy storage unit 100 via a thermally conductive adhesive 910. The thermally conductive adhesive 910 extends along a first direction. It should be noted that thermal contact includes direct contact between the cooling section 210 and the valve mounting surface 121, and indirect contact between the cooling section 210 and the valve mounting surface 121 via a thermally conductive component (adhesive, fixing component, etc.). Each cooling section 210 can also be formed by extrusion molding of a metal such as aluminum. Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 As shown, each cooling section 210 has an upstream flow path 211 and a downstream flow path 212.

[0038] The upstream flow path 211 is located upstream of the flow direction of the cooling medium. The downstream flow path 212 is located downstream of the flow direction of the cooling medium. For example... Figure 7 As shown, the upstream flow path 211 and the downstream flow path 212 have shapes extending along a first direction. The upstream flow path 211 and the downstream flow path 212 are adjacent to each other in a second direction. The cooling medium flows from one side to the other in the upstream flow path 211 in the first direction, and flows from the other side to one side in the downstream flow path 212.

[0039] like Figure 4 as well as Figure 7 As shown, each cooling section 210 is provided with a through hole h. The through hole h extends along a first direction. The through hole h is provided in the cooling section 210 at a position facing the safety valve SV of each energy storage unit 100. It should be noted that the cooling section 210 may also have the same number of through holes h as the number of energy storage units 100 in each energy storage stack. The through hole h is provided in the cooling section 210 between the upstream flow path 211 and the downstream flow path 212. In this embodiment, the through hole h is provided in the central part of the cooling section 210 in the second direction.

[0040] The reversing section 220 connects the downstream end of the upstream flow path 211 and the upstream end of the downstream flow path 212. Therefore, as... Figure 7 As indicated by the middle arrow, the cooling medium flows in the order of upstream flow path 211, reversal section 220, and downstream flow path 212.

[0041] Connecting part 230 connects the four cooling parts 210 to each other. For example... Figure 8 As shown, the connecting part 230 has a connecting part body 232 and a partition wall 234.

[0042] The connecting body 232 connects the four cooling sections 210 to each other. Therefore, the cooling medium flowing through each downstream flow path 212 converges within the connecting body 232. The connecting body 232 may also be formed in a generally cuboid shape.

[0043] The partition wall 234 divides the connecting part body 232 into two spaces. In this embodiment, as... Figure 8 As shown, the partition wall 234 divides the connecting body 232 into two parts, top and bottom. The upstream end of each upstream flow path 211 is connected to the space above the partition wall 234 within the connecting body 232 (hereinafter referred to as "upstream space S11"), and the downstream end of each downstream flow path 212 is connected to the space below the partition wall 234 within the connecting body 232 (hereinafter referred to as "downstream space S12"). Therefore, the cooling medium flowing into the upstream space S11 flows into each upstream flow path 211. The cooling medium flowing out of each downstream flow path 212 flows into the downstream space S12.

[0044] like Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 As shown, an inflow portion 236 and an outflow portion 238 are connected at the connecting portion 230.

[0045] The inflow section 236 connects the upstream space S11 inside the connecting body 232 to the outside of the connecting body 232. Therefore, the cooling medium flows from the outside of the connecting body 232 into the upstream space S11 inside the connecting body 232 through the inflow section 236. In this embodiment, the inflow section 236 is connected to the upper surface of the connecting body 232.

[0046] The outflow portion 238 connects the downstream space S12 within the connecting body 232 to the outside of the connecting body 232. Therefore, the cooling medium flows out of the connecting body 232 from the downstream space S12 through the outflow portion 238. In this embodiment, the outflow portion 238 is connected to the upper part of the connecting body 232 and the partition wall 234. It should be noted that the temperature of the cooling medium flowing out of the connecting body 232 through the outflow portion 238 is higher than the temperature of the cooling medium flowing into the connecting body 232 through the inflow portion 236.

[0047] The housing 300 houses at least one energy storage unit 100. In this embodiment, the housing 300 houses four energy storage stacks 11-14 and a cooler 200. Figure 4 As shown, the frame 300 has a lower housing 310, an upper cover 320, a panel component 330, a space forming component 340, a support component 350, and a transverse component 360.

[0048] The lower housing 310 opens upwards. The lower housing 310 has a bottom surface 312 and a peripheral wall 314.

[0049] The bottom surface 312 is located below each of the energy storage stacks 11 to 14. The bottom surface 312 can also be formed into a flat plate.

[0050] The peripheral wall 314 rises from the periphery of the bottom surface 312. The peripheral wall 314 has a shape that surrounds the lower part of each battery pack 11 to 14.

[0051] An upper cover 320 is disposed above at least one energy storage unit 100. In this embodiment, the upper cover 320 is disposed above four energy storage stacks 11 to 14. The upper cover 320, together with the lower housing 310, houses the four energy storage stacks 11 to 14 and the cooler 200. Specifically, the upper cover 320 and the lower housing 310 house the four energy storage stacks 11 to 14 and the cooler 200 in a sealed state. The periphery of the upper cover 320 is connected to the periphery of the lower housing 310 via bolts or the like through a sealing member.

[0052] The upper cover 320 and the lower housing 310 together house multiple energy storage units 100. In this embodiment, the upper cover 320 and the lower housing 310 together house four energy storage stacks 11-14 and a cooler 200 in a sealed state. The upper cover 320 has an upper wall 322 formed above each energy storage stack 11-14. Ribs extending along a second direction may also be formed on the upper wall 322. The periphery of the upper cover 320 is connected to the periphery of the lower housing 310 via a sealing member by bolts or the like.

[0053] The panel component 330 is disposed below the lower housing 310. The panel component 330 is engaged with the lower surface of the bottom surface 312. The panel component 330 serves to protect the lower housing 310. The panel component 330 may also be formed in the form of a flat plate.

[0054] The space-forming component 340 and the bottom surface 312 of the lower housing 310 together form a space S. The space-forming component 340 is disposed between the bottom surface 312 of the lower housing 310 and at least one energy storage unit 100. Specifically, the space-forming component 340 is disposed between the bottom surface 312 and each energy storage stack 11 to 14. That is, in this embodiment, four spaces S are formed within the frame 300. It should be noted that the space-forming component 340 and the lower housing 310 can also be integrally formed.

[0055] Each space S functions as a smoke exhaust path (hereinafter referred to as "smoke exhaust path S"). The smoke exhaust path S is a path for discharging the gas discharged from the safety valve SV to the outside of the frame 300. The end of each smoke exhaust path S in the first direction is connected to a common space within the frame 300.

[0056] The space forming component 340 has an opening 340h located below the safety valve SV. When gas is discharged from the safety valve SV of the energy storage unit 100, the gas flows into the smoke exhaust path S through the opening 340h. In this embodiment, the opening 340h is provided in the space forming component 340 at a position facing each safety valve SV.

[0057] like Figure 3 As shown, an explosion-proof valve 390 is installed in the peripheral wall 314 at a location in the first direction opposite to the smoke exhaust path S. The explosion-proof valve 390 is located in the aforementioned common space within the frame 300. The explosion-proof valve 390 releases pressure within the frame 300. The explosion-proof valve 390 opens when the pressure within the frame 300 reaches or exceeds a reference value. The explosion-proof valve 390 is composed of a check valve. Figure 3 As shown, when gas is discharged from any of the energy storage units 100, the gas diffuses in the first direction through the smoke exhaust path S and is discharged to the outside of the frame 300 through the explosion-proof valve 390.

[0058] like Figure 4 As shown, the space forming component 340 has a base 341 and a cooler support 342.

[0059] The base 341 is connected to the bottom surface 312 of the lower housing 310 by welding or the like. The base 341 is formed flat.

[0060] The cooler support portion 342 protrudes from the base portion 341. The cooler support portion 342 supports the cooler 200. That is, the cooler 200 is disposed between the lower surface of the unit housing 120 and the space-forming member 340. The cooler support portion 342 has a first support portion 342a and a second support portion 342b.

[0061] The first support portion 342a supports the upstream flow path 211. More specifically, the first support portion 342a supports the upstream flow path 211 across the adhesive member 920. The first support portion 342a is formed in the shape of a flat plate.

[0062] The second support portion 342b supports the downstream flow path 212. More specifically, the second support portion 342b supports the downstream flow path 212 across the adhesive member 920. The second support portion 342b is formed in the shape of a flat plate.

[0063] An opening 340h is provided in the cooling support 342 at a position opposite to the through hole h of the cooler 200.

[0064] like Figure 4As shown, heat insulation plates 250 can also be provided on the valve mounting surface 121 of each unit housing 120. Each heat insulation plate 250 is connected to the valve mounting surface 121 by means of adhesive components, etc., to cover the safety valve SV. A notch can also be formed in the portion of each heat insulation plate 250 that overlaps with the edge of the safety valve SV. Each heat insulation plate 250 is, for example, made of mica obtained by hardening natural inorganic minerals through hot pressing. Each heat insulation plate 250 can also be placed on the cooler support 342 to cover the opening 340h.

[0065] Support member 350 supports space forming member 340. Support member 350 receives jet gas (blast) discharged from safety valve SV. Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 As shown, the support member 350 has a support portion 351 and a receiving portion 356. It should be noted that, in Figure 3 The diagram of support component 350 is omitted.

[0066] The support portion 351 supports the area around the opening 340h in the space forming member 340. For example... Figures 4-6 As shown, the support portion 351 has a pair of connecting portions 352, a pair of erecting portions 353, and a top 354.

[0067] A pair of connecting portions 352 are respectively connected to the bottom surface 312 of the lower housing 310 by welding or the like. The pair of connecting portions 352 are separated from each other in a second direction. Each connecting portion 352 extends along a first direction. Each connecting portion 352 is formed in a flat plate shape.

[0068] A pair of upright portions 353 each rise from the connecting portion 352. Each upright portion 353 rises from the inner end of the connecting portion 352 in the second direction. In this embodiment, each upright portion 353 is inclined such that it gradually approaches each other as it moves upward away from the connecting portion 352. A communication opening h1 is provided in each upright portion 353.

[0069] The top 354 extends from the upper end of the upright portion 353 toward the opening 340h. The top 354 connects the upper ends of the pair of upright portions 353 to each other. The top 354 abuts against the lower surface of the cooler support portion 342. The top 354 is formed in a flat plate shape. An inlet h2 is provided in the portion of the top 354 that overlaps with the opening 340h. The length of the inlet h2 in the second direction is set to be greater than or equal to the length of the opening 340h in the second direction.

[0070] The receiving portion 356 receives the jet gas discharged from the safety valve SV. The receiving portion 356 is located below the opening 340h. The receiving portion 356 overlaps with the top 354 in the vertical direction. The receiving portion 356 is disposed below the inlet h2. The length of the receiving portion 356 in at least the second direction is greater than the length of the opening 340h in the second direction. In this embodiment, the receiving portion 356 is constructed from a different component than the support portion 351. However, the receiving portion 356 may also be integrally formed from the same material as the support portion 351. The receiving portion 356 is, for example, constructed from a steel plate.

[0071] like Figure 5 As shown, the receiving part 356 has a pair of clamping parts 357 and a receiving part body 358.

[0072] Each clamping part 357 is located between the bottom surface 312 of the lower housing 310 and the connecting part 352. Each clamping part 357 is connected to the bottom surface 312 by welding or the like. Each clamping part 357 is formed in the shape of a flat plate.

[0073] The receiving body 358 connects a pair of clamping portions 357 to each other. The receiving body 358 protrudes from the pair of clamping portions 357. The receiving body 358 is separate from the bottom surface 312. The receiving body 358 is formed in a flat plate shape. The receiving body 358 has a shape that extends along a first direction. The receiving body 358 overlaps with the top 354 in the vertical direction and is positioned below the inlet h2. The length of the receiving body 358 in the second direction is greater than the length of the opening 340h in the second direction.

[0074] The lateral component 360 is connected to the portion between a pair of adjacent battery packs in the base 341 by welding or the like. For example, in Figure 4 In the diagram, a plurality of first energy storage units 101 (see reference) are shown, which are included in the outermost energy storage stack 11 arranged in the second direction. Figure 4 ) and the plurality of second energy storage units 102 contained in the energy storage stack 12 adjacent to the energy storage stack 11 (refer to Figure 4 A transverse member 360 is connected to the base 341 located between the two portions. The transverse member 360 extends along a first direction. The transverse member 360 is connected to the peripheral wall 314. The transverse member 360 may also be connected to a pair of first frames 21 via a bracket (not shown).

[0075] like Figure 4 As shown, the transverse component 360 has a reinforcing part 362 and a connecting bottom surface 364.

[0076] The reinforcing part 362 has a shape that protrudes away from the base 341. The reinforcing part 362 is disposed below the external terminals 130 of the energy storage unit 100. The reinforcing part 362 and the pair of external terminals 130 facing each other in the second direction overlap in the vertical direction.

[0077] The connecting bottom surface 364 extends outward in a second direction from the lower end of the reinforcing part 362. The connecting bottom surface 364 is connected to the base part 341 by welding or the like. The connecting bottom surface 364 is formed flat.

[0078] like Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 As shown, the reinforcing member 620 is disposed on the upper cover 320. More specifically, the reinforcing member 620 is mounted on the upper wall 322. The reinforcing member 620 has the function of dispersing the load exerted on the energy storage device 10 from above by the occupants of the vehicle 1.

[0079] The device unit 800 is disposed, for example, at one end in the first direction. In this embodiment, the device unit 800 is disposed on the rear of the upper cover 320 in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle 1. The device unit 800 includes a junction box 812, an electricity supply unit 814, an electronic control unit 816, a first cooler 822, a second cooler 824, and a device cover 830.

[0080] Junction box 812 is positioned above upper cover 320. Junction box 812 houses relays, fuses, etc. Junction box 812 is cooled by a first cooler 822 disposed between junction box 812 and upper cover 320.

[0081] The power supply unit 814 is positioned above the junction box 812. The power supply unit 814 is cooled by a second cooler 824 disposed on the power supply unit 814.

[0082] The electronic control unit 816 is located above the junction box 812.

[0083] The equipment cover 830 houses the junction box 812, the power supply unit 814, the electronic control unit 816, and the second cooler 824.

[0084] In the energy storage device 10 described above, when gas is discharged downward from the safety valve SV due to a short circuit or other reason in any of the energy storage units 100, the gas damages the heat insulation plate 250 and flows into the smoke exhaust path S through the opening 340h, the inlet h2, and the connecting port h1. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the contents of the energy storage unit 100 contained in the gas (so-called fragments) from adhering to the external terminals 130 of the energy storage unit 100.

[0085] In addition, since the valve mounting surface 121 of the energy storage unit 100 is cooled by the cooler 200, damage to the valve mounting surface 121 when gas flows out from the safety valve SV can be suppressed.

[0086] Next, the gas flowing into the exhaust path S diffuses in the first direction, such as... Figure 3 The gas is discharged from the frame 300 through the explosion-proof valve 390. Here, since the safety valves SV of other energy storage units 100 (different from the energy storage unit 100 that discharges gas) are covered by the heat insulation plate 250, it is possible to prevent the jet gas discharged from the safety valve SV from coming into contact with the safety valves SV of the other energy storage units 100 due to bounce back from the space forming member 340, etc. Therefore, it is possible to prevent damage to the safety valves SV of energy storage units 100 other than the energy storage unit 100 that discharges gas.

[0087] Hereinafter, variations of the above-described embodiments will be described.

[0088] <First Variation>

[0089] like Figure 9 As shown, the space-forming component 340 may also include a raised portion 343. The raised portion 343 connects the first support portion 342a and the second support portion 342b. The raised portion 343 protrudes from the first support portion 342a and the second support portion 342b. The raised portion 343 is located within the through hole h of the cooler 200. In other words, the raised portion 343 overlaps with the upstream flow path 211 and the downstream flow path 212 in the second direction. An opening 340h is provided in the raised portion 343 at a location facing the safety valve SV.

[0090] The lower surface of the portion surrounding the opening 340h in the raised portion 343 abuts against the top 354.

[0091] The heat insulation panel 250 can also be placed on the raised portion 343.

[0092] In this manner, since the distance between the safety valve SV and the raised portion 343 becomes relatively small, it is possible to prevent the jet airflow discharged from the safety valve SV from contacting the cooler 200.

[0093] <Second Variation>

[0094] like Figure 10 As shown, the support member 350 may also have a pair of tops 354. Each top 354 extends from the upper end of the erected portion 353 in a direction away from the opening 340h. One of the pair of tops 354 supports the first support portion 342a. The other of the pair of tops 354 supports the second support portion 342b.

[0095] Each erected portion 353 rises from the outer end of the connecting portion 352 in the second direction. In this example, each erected portion 353 is inclined in such a way that it gradually separates from each other as it moves upward away from the connecting portion 352.

[0096] The receiving portion 356 connects a pair of connecting portions 352 to each other. The receiving portion 356 is disposed below the opening 340h. The receiving portion 356 may also protrude from the bottom surface 312 of the lower housing 310.

[0097] <Third Variation>

[0098] like Figure 11 As shown, each erected portion 353 may also include a fragile portion 353a. The fragile portion 353a absorbs energy generated by the upward load acting on the bottom surface 312 of the lower housing 310. The fragile portion 353a elastically deforms in a manner that allows relative displacement in the vertical direction between the connecting portion 352 and the receiving portion 356 relative to the top 354. The thickness of the fragile portion 353a is less than the thickness of the connecting portion 352 and less than the thickness of the top 354. The fragile portion 353a is disrupted by gas discharged from the safety valve SV, thereby allowing the gas to flow into the smoke exhaust path S.

[0099] In this manner, when the system is stable, the load input to the energy storage unit 100 from below is suppressed by the vulnerable part 353a, and when the gas is discharged from the safety valve SV, the gas effectively flows into the smoke exhaust path S.

[0100] Those skilled in the art will understand that the above exemplary embodiments are specific examples of the following methods.

[0101] [Method 1]

[0102] An energy storage device, wherein the energy storage device comprises:

[0103] At least one energy storage unit, the at least one energy storage unit including a safety valve disposed on the lower surface;

[0104] The lower housing includes a bottom surface located below the at least one energy storage unit;

[0105] A space-forming component, disposed between the bottom surface of the lower housing and the at least one energy storage unit, forming a space together with the bottom surface of the lower housing; and

[0106] Support member, the support member supporting the space forming member

[0107] The space-forming component has an opening located below the safety valve.

[0108] In this energy storage device, since the gas discharged downwards from the safety valve of the energy storage unit flows through an opening into the space formed between the bottom surface of the lower housing and the space-forming member, it is possible to suppress the adhesion of the energy storage unit's contents (so-called fragments) contained in the gas to the energy storage unit. Furthermore, the space-forming member is supported by a support member, and the bottom surface of the lower housing is protected from the jet gas discharged from the safety valve.

[0109] [Method 2]

[0110] In the energy storage device described in Method 1

[0111] The support component includes:

[0112] A support portion that supports the portion surrounding the opening in the space-forming member; and

[0113] A receiving part, which is located below the opening.

[0114] [Method 3]

[0115] In the energy storage device described in method 2

[0116] The support portion has:

[0117] A connecting part, which is connected to the bottom surface of the lower housing;

[0118] The erected portion, which rises from the connecting portion; and

[0119] The top extends from the upper end of the upright portion toward the opening.

[0120] A flow inlet is formed at the portion of the top that overlaps with the opening.

[0121] The receiving portion overlaps with the top in the vertical direction and is positioned below the inlet.

[0122] [Method 4]

[0123] In the energy storage device described in Method 3, a communication port is provided in the upright part.

[0124] In this method, the gas discharged from the safety valve flows into the space through the opening, the inlet, and the connecting port.

[0125] [Method 5]

[0126] In the energy storage device described in method 2

[0127] The support portion has:

[0128] A connecting part, which is connected to the bottom surface of the lower housing;

[0129] The erected portion, which rises from the connecting portion; and

[0130] The top extends from the upper end of the upright portion in a direction away from the opening.

[0131] The receiving part is connected to the connecting part and is disposed below the opening.

[0132] [Method 6]

[0133] In the energy storage device described in Method 5, a communication port is provided in the upright part.

[0134] In this method, the gas discharged from the safety valve flows into the space through the opening and the connecting port.

[0135] [Method 7]

[0136] In any one of the methods 3 to 6, the energy storage device

[0137] The erected portion includes a fragilely formed section.

[0138] The vulnerable section allows gas to flow into the space by being disrupted by gas discharged from the safety valve.

[0139] In this method, when the system is stable, the load input to the energy storage unit is suppressed by the weak part, and when the gas is discharged, the gas effectively flows into the exhaust path.

[0140] [Method 8]

[0141] In any one of the methods 2 to 7, the energy storage device

[0142] The at least one energy storage unit includes a plurality of energy storage units arranged in a manner that runs along a first direction.

[0143] Each of the energy storage units has a shape in which the length in a second direction, orthogonal to both the first direction and the vertical direction, is greater than the length in both the first direction and the vertical direction.

[0144] At least the length of the receiving portion in the second direction is greater than the length of the opening in the second direction.

[0145] In this method, since the jet airflow passing through the opening is effectively received by the receiving part, damage to the bottom surface of the lower housing can be suppressed.

[0146] [Method 9]

[0147] In any one of the energy storage devices of methods 1 to 8

[0148] It also includes a cooler for cooling the at least one energy storage unit.

[0149] The cooler is disposed between the lower surface of the at least one energy storage unit and the space-forming member, and is in thermal contact with the lower surface of the at least one energy storage unit.

[0150] In this method, since the lower surface of the energy storage unit, i.e. the surface where the safety valve is installed, is cooled by the cooler, damage to the lower surface when gas flows out from the safety valve can be suppressed.

[0151] [Method 10]

[0152] In the energy storage device described in method 9

[0153] The cooler has a through hole located opposite the safety valve.

[0154] The space-forming component includes:

[0155] Cooler support portion, the cooler support portion supporting the cooler; and

[0156] A raised portion, the raised portion protruding from the cooler support portion toward the through hole of the cooler.

[0157] The raised portion is provided with the opening.

[0158] In this method, since the distance between the safety valve and the raised part becomes smaller, it is possible to prevent the jet airflow discharged from the safety valve from contacting the cooler.

[0159] [Method 11]

[0160] In the energy storage device described in method 10

[0161] It also includes a heat insulation plate composed of heat insulation components and mounted on the raised portion.

[0162] The heat insulation plate covers the opening of the raised portion.

[0163] In this method, since the openings located opposite the safety valves of other energy storage units that are different from the energy storage units that discharge gas are sealed by heat insulation plates, it is possible to prevent gas diffusing in the space from contacting the lower surfaces of other energy storage units.

[0164] Embodiments of this utility model have been described, but the embodiments disclosed herein should be understood as illustrative rather than restrictive in all respects. The scope of this utility model is set forth in the claims and is intended to include all modifications of the same meaning and scope as the claims.

Claims

1. An energy storage device, wherein, The energy storage device includes: At least one energy storage unit, the at least one energy storage unit including a safety valve disposed on the lower surface; The lower housing includes a bottom surface located below the at least one energy storage unit; A space-forming component is disposed between the bottom surface of the lower housing and the at least one energy storage unit, forming a space together with the bottom surface of the lower housing; as well as Support member, the support member supporting the space forming member The space-forming component has an opening located below the safety valve.

2. The energy storage device as described in claim 1, wherein, The support component includes: A support portion that supports the portion surrounding the opening in the space-forming member; and A receiving part, which is located below the opening.

3. The energy storage device as described in claim 2, wherein, The support portion has: A connecting part, which is connected to the bottom surface of the lower housing; An upright portion, which rises from the connecting portion; as well as The top extends from the upper end of the upright portion toward the opening. A flow inlet is formed at the portion of the top that overlaps with the opening. The receiving portion overlaps with the top in the vertical direction and is positioned below the inlet.

4. The energy storage device as described in claim 3, wherein, A connecting port is provided in the erected part.

5. The energy storage device as described in claim 2, wherein, The support portion has: A connecting part, which is connected to the bottom surface of the lower housing; An upright portion, which rises from the connecting portion; as well as The top extends from the upper end of the upright portion in a direction away from the opening. The receiving part is connected to the connecting part and is disposed below the opening.

6. The energy storage device as described in claim 5, wherein, A connecting port is provided in the erected part.

7. The energy storage device as described in claim 3, wherein, The raised portion includes a fragile portion that is formed in a vulnerable manner. The vulnerable section allows gas to flow into the space by being disrupted by gas discharged from the safety valve.

8. The energy storage device as described in claim 2, wherein, The at least one energy storage unit includes a plurality of energy storage units arranged in a manner that runs along a first direction. Each of the energy storage units has a shape in which the length in a second direction, orthogonal to both the first direction and the vertical direction, is greater than the length in both the first direction and the vertical direction. At least the length of the receiving portion in the second direction is greater than the length of the opening in the second direction.

9. The energy storage device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The energy storage device also includes a cooler for cooling the at least one energy storage unit. The cooler is disposed between the lower surface of the at least one energy storage unit and the space-forming member, and is in thermal contact with the lower surface of the at least one energy storage unit.

10. The energy storage device as claimed in claim 9, wherein, The cooler has a through hole located opposite the safety valve. The space-forming component includes: Cooler support portion, the cooler support portion supporting the cooler; and A raised portion, the raised portion protruding from the cooler support portion toward the through hole of the cooler. The raised portion is provided with the opening.

11. The energy storage device as claimed in claim 10, wherein, The energy storage device also includes a heat insulation plate, which is composed of heat insulation components and is placed on the raised portion. The heat insulation plate covers the opening of the raised portion.

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