CONNECTION MODULE SET, ELECTRODE CONNECTION ELEMENT SET AND BATTERY PACK

The introduction of a connection module set and electrode connection element set addresses the challenge of improving assembly accessibility for battery packs by providing a structured method for connecting electrodes between adjacent battery modules, enhancing assembly efficiency.

DE102024132014A1Pending Publication Date: 2025-05-08YAZAKI CORP
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Patent Information

Application Number
DE102024132014
Authority / Receiving Office
DE · DE
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-11-04
Publication Date
2025-05-08

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing battery pack assembly methods face challenges in improving accessibility for connecting electrodes of multiple battery modules, particularly when using bolzing attachments, which can complicate the assembly process.

Method used

A connection module set and electrode connection element set are introduced, comprising insulating substrates and electrode connection elements that are supported by these substrates. The connection elements include basic ends electrically connected to battery module electrodes and above-end ends that facilitate connections between adjacent battery modules.

Benefits of technology

This solution enhances the assembly accessibility and efficiency of battery packs by providing a structured and efficient method for connecting electrodes between adjacent battery modules, thereby improving the overall assembly process.

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Abstract

A connection module set according to one embodiment comprises a first connection module and a second connection module. The first connection module comprises a first electrode connection element. The first electrode connection element comprises a base end that is electrically connected to a first electrode terminal of the first battery module and a projecting end that projects in a first direction. The second connection module comprises a second electrode connection element. The second electrode connection element comprises a base end that is electrically connected to a second electrode terminal of the second battery module and a holder into which the projecting end of the first electrode connection element of the first connection module is inserted and held from the first direction.
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Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONField of the invention

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a connection module set, an electrode connection element set and a battery pack. Description of the related technology

[0002] A battery pack in which a plurality of battery modules are arranged side by side is known. Furthermore, as a structure for preventing corrosion of a surface of a bus bar, a structure has been proposed in which, in a metal-clad material formed by joining a first metal plate made of an aluminum plate and a second metal plate made of a metal different from the first metal plate, the first metal plate has a fitting groove, and the second metal plate has a fitting protrusion to be fitted into the fitting groove. Patent Document 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application, First Publication No. 2021-82395 Patent Document 2: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application, First Publication No. 2015-187909 SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Incidentally, in a case where electrodes of a plurality of battery modules are connected to each other using a connecting structure that utilizes bolt fastening, it may be difficult to improve assembly workability.

[0004] An embodiment of the present invention provides a connection module set, an electrode connecting member set, and a battery pack suitable for improving assembly feasibility of the battery pack.

[0005] A connection module set according to an embodiment of the present invention is an element set used for a battery pack including a first battery module and a second battery module adjacent to the first battery module in a first direction. The connection module set includes a first connection module and a second connection module. The first connection module includes an insulating first substrate arranged to face one end of the first battery module in a second direction in a case where the second direction is a direction intersecting the first direction, and a first electrode connection member supported by the first substrate. The first electrode connection member includes a base end electrically connected to a first electrode terminal of the first battery module and a protruding end protruding in the first direction.The second connection module includes an insulating second substrate arranged to face the second end of the second battery module, and a second electrode connection member supported by the second substrate. The second electrode connection member includes a base end electrically connected to a second electrode terminal of the second battery module, and a holder into which the protruding end of the first electrode connection member of the first connection module is inserted and held from the first direction.

[0006] An electrode connecting member set according to an embodiment of the present invention is a member set used for a battery pack including a first battery module and a second battery module adjacent to the first battery module in a first direction. The electrode connecting member set includes a first electrode connecting member and a second electrode connecting member. The first electrode connecting member includes a base end that overlaps one end of the first battery module when viewed from a second direction in a case where the second direction is a direction intersecting the first direction and is electrically connected to a first electrode terminal of the first battery module, and a protruding end that protrudes in the first direction.The second electrode connecting member includes a base end that overlaps one end of the second battery module when viewed from the second direction and is electrically connected to a second electrode terminal of the second battery module, and a holder that has a portion that is elastically deformable in a direction intersecting the first direction and into which the protruding end of the first electrode connecting member is inserted and held from the first direction.

[0007] A battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a first battery module, a second battery module, a first connection module, and a second connection module. The second battery module is adjacent to the first battery module in the first direction. The first connection module includes an insulating first substrate arranged to face one end of the first battery module in a second direction in a case where the second direction is a direction intersecting the first direction, and a first electrode connection member supported by the first substrate. The first electrode connection member includes a base end electrically connected to a first electrode terminal of the first battery module and a protruding end protruding in the first direction.The second connection module includes an insulating second substrate arranged to face the second end of the second battery module, and a second electrode connection member supported by the second substrate. The second electrode connection member includes a base end electrically connected to a second electrode terminal of the second battery module, and a holder into which the protruding end of the first electrode connection member of the first connection module is inserted and held from the first direction.

[0008] According to an embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to provide a connection module set, an electrode connecting member set, and a battery pack capable of improving assembly feasibility of the battery pack. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an overall structure of a battery pack of an embodiment. Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing a partial structure of the battery pack of the embodiment. Fig. 3 is a front view illustrating a battery module of the embodiment. Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view, along line F4-F4, of the Fig. 2 battery packs shown. Fig. 5 is a side view illustrating a wiring module of the embodiment. Fig. 6 is a perspective view illustrating the wiring module of the embodiment. Fig. 7 is a perspective view illustrating a wiring member, a thermistor, and a connector of the embodiment. Fig. 8 is a perspective view for describing a connection structure of a terminal connection portion of the embodiment. Fig. 9 is an electrical circuit diagram showing a structure of the wiring module of the embodiment. Fig. 10 is a side view showing two wiring modules of the embodiment. Fig. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a routing module of the embodiment. Fig. 12 is an electrical circuit diagram showing a structure of a wiring module of a first modification example of the embodiment. Fig. 13 is an electrical circuit diagram showing a structure of a wiring module of a second modification example of the embodiment. Fig. 14 is a side view illustrating two wiring modules of a third modification example of the embodiment. Fig. 15 is a side view illustrating two wiring modules of a fourth modification example of the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, structures having the same or similar functions are denoted by the same reference numerals. Redundant descriptions of these structures may be omitted. In the present disclosure, the terms are defined as follows. The term "connection" is not limited to a mechanical connection, and may include an electrical connection. That is, the term "connection" is not limited to a case where two elements that are connection targets are directly connected, and may include a case where two elements that are connection targets are connected with another element interposed therebetween.The term “supported” is not limited to a case where an element is supported by being in direct contact, and may include a case where an element is supported with another element interposed therebetween.

[0010] In the present disclosure, a +X direction, a -X direction, a +Y direction, a -Y direction, a +Z direction, and a -Z direction are defined as follows. The +X direction is a direction from a battery module 10A, which will be described later, to a battery module 10B (see Fig. 2). The -X direction is a direction opposite to the +X direction. In a case where the +X direction and the -X direction are not distinguished, they are simply referred to as an "X direction." The +Y direction and the -Y direction are directions that intersect the X direction (for example, orthogonal to it). The +Y direction is a direction from a first end 11EA to a second end 11EB of the battery module 10, which will be described later (see Fig. 2). The -Y direction is a direction opposite to the +Y direction. In a case where the +Y direction and the -Y direction are not distinguished, they are simply referred to as a "Y direction." The +Z direction is a direction that intersects the X direction and the Y direction (for example, orthogonal thereto). The +Z direction is a direction from the battery module 10 toward a routing module 80, which will be described later (see Fig. 2). The -Z direction is a direction opposite to the +Z direction. In a case where the +Z direction and the -Z direction are not distinguished, they are simply referred to as a "Z direction." The X direction is an example of a "first direction." The Y direction is an example of a "second direction." The Z direction is an example of a "third direction." (Embodiment)<1. Overall structure of the battery pack>

[0011] Fig. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an overall structure of a battery pack 1 according to an embodiment. The battery pack 1 includes, for example, a plurality of battery modules 10, a plurality of wiring modules 20, two routing modules 80, two insulating members 91, two end plates 92, and a plurality of coupling members 93. The battery pack 1 may further include an outer member that accommodates these members. <2. Battery module>

[0012] First, the battery module 10 is described.

[0013] Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a partial structure of the battery pack 1. The plurality of battery modules 10 are arranged side by side in the X direction. Each battery module 10 is a structure including a plurality of battery cells 12. In the present embodiment, the battery module 10 is a bipolar battery module. Each battery module 10 includes, for example, a case 11, a plurality of battery cells 12, a positive electrode terminal 13A (see Fig. 3), a negative electrode terminal 13B (see Fig. 3) and a plurality of voltage detection terminals 14 (see Fig. 3). <2.1 Enclosure>

[0014] The housing 11 is a casing that houses the plurality of battery cells 12. The housing 11 has a flat rectangular parallelepiped outer shape. The housing 11 has six end surfaces. The housing 11 is arranged such that an end surface (main surface) with the largest area among the six end surfaces is located in the Y direction and the Z direction. A longitudinal direction of the housing 11 is, for example, the Y direction.

[0015] In the present embodiment, the case 11 has a first end 11EA and a second end 11EB as ends in the Y direction. The first end 11EA is an end on the -Y direction side. The first end 11EA is an example of "a first end of the battery module." Hereinafter, for convenience of description, the first end 11EA of the case 11 may be referred to as "the first end 11EA of the battery module 10." On the other hand, the second end 11EB is an end on the +Y direction side. The second end 11EB is an example of a "second end of the battery module." Hereinafter, for convenience of description, the second end 11EB of the case 11 may be referred to as "the second end 11EB of the battery module 10." Hereinafter, in a case where the first end 11EA and the second end 11EB are not distinguished, they are simply referred to as one “end 11E”. <2.2 Battery cell>

[0016] The plurality of battery cells 12 are installed in the housing 11. The plurality of battery cells 12 are arranged, for example, side by side in the X-direction inside the housing 11. The plurality of battery cells 12 are electrically connected in series. In the present embodiment, two battery cells 12 that are adjacent to each other in the X-direction share a current collector that functions as a bipolar electrode. Although for convenience of description in Fig. 2 five battery cells 12 are shown, more battery cells 12 can actually be arranged. <2.3 Positive electrode connection>

[0017] Fig. 3 is a front view illustrating the battery module 10. The positive electrode terminal 13A is a positive-side (all-positive) terminal electrically connected in series with the plurality of battery cells 12 included in the battery module 10. The positive electrode terminal 13A is an example of a "first electrode terminal." The positive electrode terminal 13A protrudes toward the outside of the case 11 to be exposed to the outside of the battery module 10. The positive electrode terminal 13A protrudes in the Y direction from the first end 11EA or the second end 11EB of the case 11. For example, in the battery modules 10 (battery modules 10B, 10D and 10F) located at the even-numbered positions counted from the -X direction side, the positive electrode terminal 13A protrudes from the first end 11EA of the case 11 in the -Y direction (see Fig. 4). On the other hand, in the battery modules 10 (battery modules 10A, 10C and 10E) located at the odd-numbered positions counted from the -X direction side, the positive electrode terminal 13A protrudes from the second end 11EB of the case 11 in the +Y direction (see Fig. 4).

[0018] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the positive electrode terminal 13A has a plate shape extending along the Y direction and the Z direction. In the present embodiment, a width 13W1 of the positive electrode terminal 13A in the Z direction is larger than a width 13W2 of the positive electrode terminal 13A in the Y direction (that is, an amount of protrusion from the end 11E of the housing 11 in the Y direction). For example, the width 13W1 of the positive electrode terminal 13A in the Z direction is twice or more the width 13W2 of the positive electrode terminal 13A in the Y direction. <2.4 Negative electrode connection>

[0019] The negative electrode terminal 13B is a terminal on the negative side (all-negative pole) that is electrically connected in series with the plurality of battery cells 12 included in the battery module 10. The negative electrode terminal 13B is an example of a “second electrode terminal.” The negative electrode terminal 13B protrudes toward the outside of the case 11 to be exposed to the outside of the battery module 10. The negative electrode terminal 13B protrudes in the Y direction from the first end 11EA or the second end 11EB of the case 11. For example, in the present embodiment, in the battery modules 10 (the battery modules 10B, 10D, and 10F) located at the even-numbered positions counted from the -X direction side, the negative electrode terminal 13B protrudes from the second end 11EB of the case 11 in the +Y direction (see Fig. 4). On the other hand, in the battery modules 10 (the battery modules 10A, 10C and 10E) located at the odd-numbered positions counted from the -X direction side, the negative electrode terminal 13B protrudes from the first end 11EA of the case 11 in the -Y direction (see Fig. 4).

[0020] As in Fig. 3, the negative electrode terminal 13B has a plate shape extending along the Y direction and the Z direction. In the present embodiment, a width 13W3 of the negative electrode terminal 13B in the Z direction is larger than a width 13W4 of the negative electrode terminal 13B in the Y direction (that is, an amount of protrusion from the end 11E of the case 11 in the Y direction). For example, the width 13W3 of the negative electrode terminal 13B in the Z direction is twice or more the width 13W4 of the negative electrode terminal 13B in the Y direction. Hereinafter, in a case where the positive electrode terminal 13A and the negative electrode terminal 13B are not distinguished, they are simply referred to as an "electrode terminal 13." <2.5 Voltage detection terminal>

[0021] The voltage detection terminal 14 is a terminal for detecting a voltage related to the battery module 10 (e.g., a voltage inside the battery module 10). For example, the voltage detection terminal 14 is a terminal for detecting a voltage between two adjacent battery cells 12 inside the battery module 10. For example, the voltage detection terminal 14 is electrically connected to a current collector (bipolar electrode) shared by two battery cells 12 adjacent in the X direction, and detects a voltage between the two battery cells 12. In the present embodiment, each battery module 10 has a plurality of (e.g., ten) voltage detection terminals 14. The plurality of voltage detection terminals 14 are connected to different positions inside the battery module 10 and detect voltages between different sets of adjacent battery cells 12.The voltage sensing terminal 14 is an example of a "sensing terminal." The "sensing terminal" described in the present disclosure may be a terminal for sensing a physical quantity other than voltage (e.g., current or temperature).

[0022] Each of the plurality of voltage detection terminals 14 protrudes toward the outside of the case 11 to be exposed to the outside of the battery module 10. In the present embodiment, the plurality of voltage detection terminals 14 includes a plurality of (for example, five) voltage detection terminals 14A of a first group and a plurality of (for example, five) voltage detection terminals 14B of a second group. The plurality of voltage detection terminals 14A of the first group protrude from the first end 11EA of the case 11 in the -Y direction. The plurality of voltage detection terminals 14A of the first group are arranged side by side in the Z direction and separated from each other in the Z direction. The plurality of voltage detection terminals 14A of the first group include three or more detection terminals arranged in parallel to each other.Each of the plurality of voltage detection terminals 14A of the first group has a plate shape extending along the Y direction and the Z direction. In the present embodiment, a width 14W2 of the voltage detection terminal 14A in the Y direction (i.e., an amount of protrusion in the Y direction from the end 11E of the housing 11) is larger than a width 14W1 of the voltage detection terminal 14A in the Z direction.

[0023] On the other hand, the plurality of voltage detection terminals 14B of the second group protrude from the second end 11EB of the housing 11 in the +Y direction. The plurality of voltage detection terminals 14B of the second group are arranged side by side in the Z direction and separated from each other in the Z direction. The plurality of voltage detection terminals 14B of the second group include three or more detection terminals arranged parallel to each other. Each of the plurality of voltage detection terminals 14B of the second group has a plate shape extending along the Y direction and the Z direction. In the present embodiment, a width 14W4 of the voltage detection terminal 14B in the Y direction (that is, an amount of protrusion in the Y direction from the end 11E of the housing 11) is larger than a width 14W3 of the voltage detection terminal 14B in the Z direction. <3. Wiring module>

[0024] Next, the wiring module 20 is described.

[0025] The wiring module 20 is, for example, a relay element for transmitting a signal received from the detection terminal of the battery module 10 to the outside. In the present embodiment, the wiring module 20 is a relay element that electrically connects the detection terminal of the battery module 10 to the routing module 80, which will be described later. From another perspective, the wiring module 20 is a element for connecting the electrode terminal 13 of the battery module 10 to the electrode terminal 13 of another battery module 10. The wiring module 20 is an example of a "connection module."

[0026] Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view, along line F4-F4, of the Fig. 2. In the present embodiment, the battery pack 1 includes, for example, five types of wiring modules 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E as the wiring modules 20. The wiring module 20A and the wiring module 20C are arranged to correspond to the battery module 10 (for example, the battery modules 10B, 10D, and 10F) located at the even-numbered positions counted from the -X direction side. The wiring module 20A is arranged on the -Y direction side of the battery module 10. The wiring module 20C is arranged on the +Y direction side of the battery module 10. On the other hand, the wiring module 20B and the wiring module 20D are arranged to correspond to the battery modules 10 (for example, the battery modules 10C and 10E) located at the odd-numbered positions counted from the X-direction side. The wiring module 20B is arranged on the Y-direction side of the battery module 10.The wiring module 20D is arranged on the +Y direction side of the battery module 10. The wiring module 20E is arranged to correspond to, for example, the battery module 10 (for example, the battery module 10A) on the side furthest in the -X direction.

[0027] Here, a wiring module 20A is first taken as an example, and a structure common to the wiring modules 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, and 20E will be described. Note that, regarding the common structure, the wiring module 20B can be described in detail by replacing "-X direction" and "+X direction" in the description of the wiring module 20A described below. Similarly, details of the wiring module 20C can be understood by replacing "-Y direction" with "+Y direction," replacing "first end 11EA" and "second end 11EB," and replacing "-X direction" with "+X direction." Similar to the description of the wiring module 20A described below, details of the wiring module 20D can be understood by replacing “-Y direction” with “+Y direction,” and replacing “first end 11EA” with “second end 11EB” in the description of the wiring module 20A described below.The wiring module 20E is described later.

[0028] Fig. 5 is a side view illustrating a wiring module 20 (for example, the wiring module 20A). Fig. 6 is a perspective view illustrating a wiring module 20 (for example, the wiring module 20A). The wiring module 20 includes, for example, a substrate 30, an electrode connecting member 40, a wiring member 50, a thermistor 61, a connector 62, a plurality of fuse components 63 (see Fig. 5) and a cover 64 (see Fig. 2). <3.1 Substrate>

[0029] The substrate 30 is a member that serves as a base of the wiring module 20. The substrate 30 is made of an insulating material such as synthetic resin and has insulating properties. The substrate 30 is arranged to face the end 11E of the battery module 10. For example, the substrate 30 faces the first end 11EA of the battery module 10 from the -Y direction.

[0030] The substrate 30 is attached to the end 11E of the battery module 10, for example, by using a fixing means 30f. The fixing means 30f is, for example, a fastening element such as a bolt, but may have an engagement structure or the like, and is not limited to a specific structure. When the substrate 30 is attached to the end 11E of the battery module 10, the wiring module 20 and the battery module 10 are integrated. In the present embodiment, before the plurality of battery modules 10 are arranged side by side, the wiring module 20 is attached to each battery module 10, and a battery module assembly AS (see Fig. 4) is formed. Each battery module assembly AS includes a battery module 10 and two wiring modules 20 arranged separately on both sides in the Y direction of the battery module 10.

[0031] As in Fig. 5 and Fig. 6, the substrate 30 includes, for example, a first portion 31, a second portion 32, a protruding wall 33, and a plurality of partition walls 34.

[0032] The first section 31 is a thin plate that extends in the Z-direction along the end 11E of the battery module 10. The first section 31 extends over most of the battery module 10 in the Z-direction. A thickness W31 of the first section 31 in the Y-direction is smaller than a width (for example, the width 13W2; see Fig. 3) of the electrode terminal 13 in the Y-direction and smaller than a width (for example, the width 14W2; see Fig. 3) the voltage detection terminal 14 in the Y direction. When viewed from the X direction side, in a state where the wiring module 20 is attached to the battery module 10, the distal end of each of the electrode terminal 13 and the plurality of voltage detection terminals 14 is exposed on the X direction side without overlapping the first portion 31.

[0033] The second portion 32 is a thick plate extending in the Z direction along the end 11E of the battery module 10. The second portion 32 is located away from the first portion 31 on the +X direction side. The second portion 32 extends in the Z direction parallel to the first portion 31. A thickness of the second portion 32 in the Y direction is greater than a width (for example, the width 13W2; see Fig. 3) of the electrode terminal 13 in the Y-direction and greater than a width (for example the W14W2; see Fig. 3) of the voltage detection terminal 14 in the Y direction.

[0034] The second portion 32 has a first surface 32a and a second surface 32b. The first surface 32a is a plane extending along the X direction and the Z direction. The first surface 32a is a surface to which a main body 51 of the wiring member 50, which will be described later, is attached. The second surface 32b is a plane extending along the Y direction and the Z direction. For example, the second surface 32b extends from the end of the first surface 32a on the -X direction side in the +Y direction. The second surface 32b is a surface facing a second space S2, which will be described later.

[0035] In the present embodiment, a first space S1 and a second space S2 are provided between the first portion 31 and the second portion 32. The first space S1 is provided at a position corresponding to the electrode terminal 13 of the battery module 10. In a case where the wiring module 20 is attached to the battery module 10, the electrode terminal 13 of the battery module 10 is inserted into the first space S1 (see Fig. 8).

[0036] The second space S2 is provided at a position corresponding to the plurality of voltage detection terminals 14 of the battery module 10. In a case where the wiring module 20 is attached to the battery module 10, the plurality of voltage detection terminals 14 of the battery module 10 are inserted into the second space S2 (see Fig. 8). The second surface 32b of the second portion 32 faces the second space S2 from the +X direction side.

[0037] The protruding wall 33 is a portion that protrudes in the -Y direction compared to the second portion 32 of the substrate 30. The protruding wall 33 is disposed adjacent to the second portion 32 of the substrate 30 from the +X direction side. The protruding wall 33 extends linearly in the -Z direction parallel to the second portion 32. The protruding wall 33 is an insulating wall that covers the wiring member 50 and the connector 62, which will be described later, from the +X direction side.

[0038] The plurality of partition walls 34 are arranged between the first portion 31 and the second portion 32 of the substrate 30. The plurality of partition walls 34 are arranged side by side in the Z direction and separated from each other in the Z direction. Each of the partition walls 34 extends in the X direction and the Y direction. Each of the partition walls 34 is connected to the first portion 31 and the second portion 32 of the substrate 30. The plurality of partition walls 34 are insulating walls provided in the second space S2.

[0039] The plurality of partition walls 34 divide the second space S2 into a plurality of regions R. The plurality of regions R are arranged side by side in the Z direction in a state of being electrically insulated from each other. The plurality of regions R are provided at positions corresponding to the plurality of voltage detection terminals 14 of the battery module 10 on a one-to-one basis. In a case where the wiring module 20 is attached to the battery module 10, the voltage detection terminal 14 of the battery module 10 is inserted into each region R (see Fig. 8). The plurality of partition walls 34 electrically insulate the plurality of voltage detection terminals 14 of the battery module 10, which are inserted into the second space S2, from each other. <3.2 Electrode connecting element>

[0040] The electrode connecting member 40 is a member for connecting the electrode terminal 13 of the battery module 10 to the electrode terminal 13 of another battery module 10. The electrode connecting member 40 is attached to the second portion 32 of the substrate 30, for example, by a fixing agent (not shown). The electrode connecting member 40 is supported by the second portion 32 of the substrate 30. The electrode connecting member 40 has a base end 41 connected to the electrode terminal 13 of the battery module 10 and a distal end 42 connected to the electrode connecting member 40 provided in another wiring module 20.

[0041] The base end 41 of the electrode connecting element 40 is arranged, for example, along the second surface 32b of the second portion 32 of the substrate 30 (see Fig. 10). The base end 41 faces the electrode terminal 13 of the battery module 10, which is inserted into the first space S1 from the +X direction side. The base end 41 is joined to the electrode terminal 13 of the battery module 10 by, for example, metal joining technology. The metal joining technology is realized, for example, by performing laser welding or the like from the -X direction side in a state where the base end 41 of the electrode connecting member 40 and the electrode terminal 13 overlap each other when viewed from the -X direction. However, a method for joining the base end 41 of the electrode connecting member 40 and the electrode terminal 13 is not limited to the above example.

[0042] The distal end 42 of the electrode connecting member 40 extends from the base end 41 in the X direction. The distal end 42 of the electrode connecting member 40 will be described in detail later.

[0043] In the present embodiment, the electrode connection member 40 is also used as a terminal for detecting a voltage of the electrode terminal 13. The electrode connection member 40 is an example of a "detection terminal." In the present disclosure, the "detection terminal" is not limited to a terminal dedicated to detection, but broadly refers to a terminal that can be used for detection. <3.3 Wiring element>

[0044] Fig. 7 is a perspective view illustrating the wiring member 50, the thermistor 61, and the connector 62. The wiring member 50 is a member having a wiring 53 for transmitting a signal received from the detection terminal of the battery module 10 to the outside. The wiring member 50 is, for example, a flat wiring member. In the present disclosure, the "flat wiring member" broadly means a member having an insulating base material that has flexibility and a wiring (conductive pattern) provided on the insulating base material. The flat wiring member is a flexible flat cable (FFC), a flexible printed circuit (FPC), or the like.

[0045] In the present embodiment, the wiring member 50 includes a main body 51 and a plurality of connecting portions 52. The wiring member 50 includes a plurality of wirings 53. The wirings 53 extend across the main body 51 and the corresponding connecting portions 52.

[0046] The main body 51 has a film shape extending along the X-direction and the Z-direction. The main body 51 is arranged to face the substrate 30 from the Y-direction. The main body 51 is attached to the first surface 32a of the second portion 32 of the substrate 30 by a fixing agent (for example, an adhesive) (not shown) or the like (see Fig. 6). The main body 51 is supported by the first surface 32a of the second portion 32 of the substrate 30.

[0047] The plurality of connecting portions 52 include, for example, a plurality of (for example, five) terminal connecting portions 52A for voltage detection terminals, a terminal connecting portion 52B for an electrode terminal, and a thermistor connecting portion 52C. (Connection section for voltage detection connection)

[0048] The plurality of terminal connecting portions 52A branch off from and extend from the main body 51. Each of the plurality of terminal connecting portions 52A has a film shape extending along the Y direction and the Z direction. The plurality of terminal connecting portions 52A are formed, for example, by bending a part of the wiring member 50 from the main body 51. The plurality of terminal connecting portions 52A are arranged along the second surface 32b of the second portion 32 of the substrate 30. The plurality of terminal connecting portions 52A can be attached to the second surface 32b of the second portion 32 of the substrate 30 by a fixing agent (for example, an adhesive) (not shown) or the like.

[0049] The plurality of terminal connecting portions 52A are separated from each other in the Z direction. The plurality of terminal connecting portions 52A include, for example, three or more terminal connecting portions 52A arranged parallel to each other. The plurality of terminal connecting portions 52A extend separately within the plurality of regions R defined by the plurality of partition walls 34 described above. That is, the plurality of terminal connecting portions 52A are respectively inserted into the different regions R. The partition wall 34 is located between the plurality of terminal connecting portions 52A.

[0050] Fig. 8 is a perspective view for describing a connection structure of the terminal connecting portion 52A. The plurality of terminal connecting portions 52A are respectively connected to the plurality of voltage detection terminals 14 of the battery module 10. For example, each of the plurality of terminal connecting portions 52A faces the voltage detection terminal 14 inserted into the region R from the +X direction in the region R into which the terminal connecting portion 52A is inserted. In the present embodiment, the plurality of terminal connecting portions 52A are bent from the main body 51 and face the plurality of voltage detection terminals 14.

[0051] The terminal connecting portion 52A is joined to the voltage detection terminal 14, for example, by metal joining. The metal joining technique is implemented, for example, by performing laser welding or the like from the -X direction side in a state where the terminal connecting portion 52A and the voltage detection terminal 14 overlap each other when viewed from the -X direction. However, a method of joining the terminal connecting portion 52A to the voltage detection terminal 14 is not limited to the above example. (Connection section for electrode connection)

[0052] The terminal connecting portion 52B is a terminal connecting portion for detecting a voltage of the electrode terminal 13 (a voltage of the output power from the battery module 10). The terminal connecting portion 52B is held in the same posture as that of the main body 51 and extends from the main body 51 in the -Z direction. The terminal connecting portion 52B has a film shape extending along the X direction and the Z direction. The terminal connecting portion 52B overlaps the electrode connecting member 40 when viewed from the Y direction. Similar to the terminal connecting portion 52A, the terminal connecting portion 52B is joined to the electrode connecting member 40 by, for example, metal joining technology. However, a method for joining the terminal connecting portion 52B to the electrode connecting member 40 is not limited to the above example. (Thermistor connection section)

[0053] The thermistor connection portion 52C branches and extends from the main body 51, together with the plurality of terminal connection portions 52A. The thermistor connection portion 52C has a film shape extending along the Y direction and the Z direction. The thermistor connection portion 52C is formed, for example, by bending a part of the wiring member 50 from the main body 51. The thermistor connection portion 52C is arranged along the second surface 32b of the second portion 32 of the substrate 30. The thermistor connection portion 52C can be attached to the second surface 32b of the second portion 32 of the substrate 30 by a fixing agent (for example, an adhesive) (not shown) or the like. The thermistor connecting portion 52C is arranged at a position different from the plurality of terminal connecting portions 52A in the Z direction.The thermistor connecting portion 52C is connected to the thermistor 61, which will be described later. <3.4 Thermistor>

[0054] The thermistor 61 is a component that detects a temperature with respect to the battery module 10. The thermistor 61 is provided inside the wiring module 20. In the present embodiment, the thermistor 61 is connected to a voltage detection terminal 14. For example, the thermistor 61 faces the voltage detection terminal 14 from the -X direction side. The thermistor 61 faces the voltage detection terminal 14 from the side opposite to the terminal connection portion 52A. The thermistor 61 is joined to the voltage detection terminal 14 together with the terminal connection portion 52A, for example, by metal joining technology. However, a method of joining the thermistor 61 to the voltage detection terminal 14 is not limited to the above example. <3.5 Connectors>

[0055] The connector 62 is a connecting portion that electrically connects the wiring module 20 and the routing module 80 in a detachable manner. The connector 62 is provided, for example, at the end of the wiring module 20 in the +Z direction. The connector 62 is supported by the substrate 30. For example, the connector 62 is placed on the main body 51 of the wiring element 50 and supported by the substrate 30 via the wiring element 50. The connector 62 is connected to the main body 51 of the wiring element 50.

[0056] The connector 62 includes a connector body 62a and a plurality of terminals 62b. The connector body 62a has an opening 62h open in the +Z direction and a plurality of terminals (not shown) provided inside the opening 62h. The plurality of terminals 62b are provided between the connector body 62a and the wiring member 50. The plurality of terminals 62b are connected to the plurality of wires 53 of the wiring member 50. In the present embodiment, the plurality of terminals 62b correspond to the plurality of wires 53 of the wiring member 50 on a one-to-one basis. <3.6 Security component>

[0057] The fuse component 63 is provided in the main body 51 of the wiring element 50 (see Fig. 5). The fuse component 63 is, for example, a surface-mount type chip fuse. The fuse component 63 is provided in the center of each wiring 53 in the main body 51 of the wiring member 50. For example, each wiring 53 includes a first portion 53a connected to the connector 62 and a second portion 53b provided in the connecting portion 52. The first portion 53a and the second portion 53b are provided separately from each other. The fuse component 63 is electrically connected in series between the first portion 53a and the second portion 53b. In a case where an excessive current flows through the wiring 53 equipped with the fuse component 63, the fuse component 63 blows to disconnect a connection between the first portion 53a and the second portion 53b.For example, the fuse component 63 is provided in the main body 51 of the wiring member 50.

[0058] Fig. 9 is an electrical circuit diagram illustrating a structure of the wiring module 20 according to the embodiment. In the present embodiment, the plurality of fuse components 63 include a plurality of (for example, five) fuse components 63A and one fuse component 63B. The plurality of fuse components 63A are electrically arranged in parallel with each other. Each of the plurality of fuse components 63A is electrically connected between a voltage detection terminal 14 included in the plurality of voltage detection terminals 14 and the connector 62. On the other hand, the fuse component 63B is electrically connected between the electrode connecting member 40 and the connector 62. The fuse component 63 is a component used in conjunction with the battery module 10. The fuse component 63 is an example of an "electronic component." <3.7 Coverage>

[0059] With further reference to Fig. 2, the cover 64 is described. The cover 64 is a member that forms part of an outer shell of the wiring module 20. The cover 64 covers the substrate 30, the electrode connecting member 40, the wiring member 50, the thermistor 61, the connector 62, and the plurality of fuse components 63 from the Y-direction side. <4. Structure of the electrode connecting element>

[0060] Next, a connection structure between the plurality of wiring modules 20 will be described.

[0061] Fig. 10 is a side view illustrating one wiring module 20A and another wiring module 20B. Hereinafter, for convenience of description, the wiring module 20A will be referred to as a "first wiring module 20A." The wiring module 20B will be referred to as a "second wiring module 20B."

[0062] The first wiring module 20A is an example of a "first connection module." The electrode terminal 13 (e.g., the positive electrode terminal 13A) of the first wiring module 20A is an example of a "first electrode terminal." The battery module 10 to which the first wiring module 20A is attached is an example of a "first battery module."

[0063] The second wiring module 20B is an example of a "second connection module." The electrode terminal 13 (for example, the negative electrode terminal 13B) of the second wiring module 20B is an example of a "second electrode terminal." The battery module 10 to which the second wiring module 20B is attached is an example of a "second battery module." In the present embodiment, an example of a connection module set MS is formed by the first wiring module 20A and the second wiring module 20B. (First wiring module)

[0064] First, the first wiring module 20A will be described. The first wiring module 20A includes a first substrate 30A as the substrate 30. The first wiring module 20A includes a first electrode connecting member 40A as the electrode connecting member 40. The first electrode connecting member 40A is, for example, a plug engaging member. The first electrode connecting member 40A is made of metal. The first electrode connecting member 40A has a base end 41A connected to the electrode terminal 13 of the first battery module 10 and a distal end 42A physically and electrically connected to the electrode connecting member 40 of the second wiring module 20B.

[0065] The base end 41A includes a plate extending along the Y direction and the Z direction. The base end 41A overlaps the first end 11EA of the first battery module 10 when viewed from the Y direction. The base end 41A faces the electrode terminal 13 (for example, the positive electrode terminal 13A) of the first battery module 10 from the +X direction side. The distal end 42A protrudes in the +X direction from the end of the base end 41A on the -Y direction side. The distal end 42A includes a plate 42p extending along the X direction and the Z direction. For example, the distal end 42A protrudes to the +X direction side, behind the end surface on the +X direction side of the housing 11 of the first wiring module 20A. The distal end 42A is an example of a “protruding end”.

[0066] In the present embodiment, a width 40W1 of the first electrode connecting member 40A in the Z direction is larger than a width 40W2 of the first electrode connecting member 40A in the X direction, and larger than a width 40W3 of the first electrode connecting member 40A in the Y direction. The width 40W1 of the first electrode connecting member 40A in the Z direction is larger than a protrusion amount 40W4 of the first electrode connecting member 40A from the end surface of the first substrate 30A on the +X direction side. For example, the width 40W1 of the first electrode connecting member 40A in the Z direction is twice or more the protrusion amount 40W4 of the first electrode connecting member 40A. For example, the width 40W1 of the first electrode connecting member 40A in the Z direction is equal to the width 13W1 (or the width 13W3) of the electrode terminal 13 of the battery module 10 in the Z direction.

[0067] In the present embodiment, the first substrate 30A of the first wiring module 20A has a first recess 70A. The first recess 70A includes, for example, a protrusion 71 that protrudes in the +X direction. The protrusion 71 is, for example, a pin that protrudes linearly in the +X direction. (Second wiring module)

[0068] Next, the second wiring module 20B will be described. The second wiring module 20B includes a second substrate 30B as the substrate 30. The second wiring module 20B includes a second electrode connecting member 40B as the electrode connecting member 40. The second electrode connecting member 40B is, for example, a female engaging member. The second electrode connecting member 40B is made of metal. The second electrode connecting member 40B has a base end 41B connected to the electrode terminal 13 of the second battery module 10 and a distal end 42B physically and electrically connected to the electrode connecting member 40 (first electrode connecting member 40A) of the first battery module 10.

[0069] The base end 41B includes a plate extending along the Y direction and the Z direction. The base end 41B faces the electrode terminal 13 (for example, the negative electrode terminal 13B) of the second battery module 10 from the -X direction side. The distal end 42B extends from the base end 41B in the -X direction. The distal end 42B includes a space into which the distal end 42A (protruding end) of the first wiring module 20A is inserted in the X direction. The distal end 42B holds the inserted distal end 42A (protruding end) of the first wiring module 20A. The distal end 42B is an example of a "holder."

[0070] An example of the second electrode connecting member 40B will be described below. In the present embodiment, the distal end 42B includes a support member 44. The support member 44 is a member that supports a leaf spring member 45, which will be described later. The support member 44 includes, for example, a first portion 44a, a second portion 44b, and a third portion 44c.

[0071] The first portion 44a is a plate extending along the Y direction and the Z direction. The first portion 44a faces the electrode terminal 13 (e.g., the negative electrode terminal 13B) of the second battery module 10 from the X direction side. The first portion 44a is joined to the electrode terminal 13 of the second battery module 10. The first portion 44a is physically and electrically connected to the electrode terminal 13 of the second battery module 10.

[0072] The second portion 44b is a plate extending along the X direction and the Z direction. The second portion 44b extends in the +X direction from the end of the first portion 44a on the -Y direction side. In the present embodiment, the second portion 44b extends toward the +X direction side behind the electrode terminal 13 of the second battery module 10. The third portion 44c is a plate extending along the Y direction and the Z direction. The third portion 44c extends from the end of the second portion 44b on the +X direction side in the -Y direction. The third portion 44c is located toward the +X direction side with respect to the electrode terminal 13 of the second battery module 10.

[0073] In the present embodiment, the distal end 42B includes a leaf spring member 45. The leaf spring member 45 is joined to the support member 44 and supported by the support member 44. The leaf spring member 45 includes, for example, a pair of clamps 45a and 45b, a base 45c, and an insertion space 46.

[0074] The base 45c is located at the end of the leaf spring member 45 on the +X direction side. The base 45c extends in the Y direction and the Z direction. The clamps 45a and 45b extend from both ends of the base 45c in the Y direction to the -X direction. The clamps 45a and 45b are arranged separately from each other in the Y direction. The end of each of the clamps 45a and 45b on the +X direction side is supported by the base 45c. The clamps 45a and 45b are elastically deformable in the Y direction. For example, the clamps 45a and 45b are elastically deformable with respect to the base 45c. The insertion space 46 exists between the clamps 45a and 45b.

[0075] In the present embodiment, in a case where the first wiring module 20A and the second wiring module 20B are connected, the distal end 42A (protruding end) of the first wiring module 20A is inserted between the terminals 45a and 45b of the second wiring module 20B. The distal end 42A of the first wiring module 20A is press-fitted toward an innermost part of the insertion space 46 while elastically deforming the terminals 45a and 45b to widen a gap (insertion space 46) between the terminals 45a and 45b in the Y direction.

[0076] In this case, the distal end 42A of the first electrode connecting member 40A is pressed by the clamps 45a and 45b from both sides in the Y direction. Consequently, the first electrode connecting member 40A and the second electrode connecting member 40B are physically and electrically connected to each other. That is, the first wiring module 20A and the second wiring module 20B are physically and electrically connected. In the present embodiment, the plate 42p of the distal end 42A of the first wiring module 20A is clamped by the clamps 45a and 45b from both sides in the Y direction. In the present embodiment, an example of an electrode connecting member set TS is constituted by the first electrode connecting member 40A and the second electrode connecting member 40B.

[0077] In the present embodiment, the leaf spring member 45 is joined to the second portion 44b and the third portion 44c of the support member 44, and is supported by the second portion 44b and the third portion 44c of the support member 44. In the present embodiment, the base 45c of the leaf spring member 45 is located toward the +X direction side with respect to the electrode terminal 13 of the second battery module 10. The terminals 45a and 45b extend from the base 45c past the electrode terminal 13 of the second battery module 10 in the -X direction. The terminals 45a and 45b that extend long as described above are more elastically deformed in the Y direction than terminals that extend short.

[0078] In the present embodiment, a width 40W5 of the second electrode connecting member 40B in the Z direction is larger than a width 40W6 of the second electrode connecting member 40B in the X direction. For example, the width 40W5 of the second electrode connecting member 40B in the Z direction is equal to the width 13W1 (or width 13W3) of the electrode terminal 13 of the battery module 10 in the Z direction.

[0079] In the present embodiment, the second substrate 30B of the second wiring module 20B has a second engagement portion 70B. The second engagement portion 70B includes, for example, an engagement hole 72 recessed in the +X direction. The projection 71 of the first wiring module 20A is inserted into and engaged with the engagement hole 72 (e.g., fitted therewith).

[0080] The arrangement of the positive electrode terminal 13A and the negative electrode terminal 13B may be opposite to that in the above example. That is, the base end 41A of the first wiring module 20A may be connected to the negative electrode terminal 13B of the first battery module 10, and the base end 41B of the second wiring module 20B may be connected to the positive electrode terminal 13A of the second battery module 10. The arrangement of the first electrode connecting member 40A and the second electrode connecting member 40B may be opposite to that in the above example. That is, the first wiring module 20A may include the second electrode connecting member 40B, and the second wiring module 20B may include the first electrode connecting member 40A. In addition, the arrangement of the protrusion 71 and the engaging hole 72 may be opposite to that in the above example.That is, the first engagement 70A of the first wiring module 20A may have the engagement hole 72, and the second engagement 70B of the second wiring module 20B may have the projection 71.

[0081] In the present embodiment, the first wiring module 20A and the second wiring module 20B are combined with each other after the first wiring module 20A is attached to the first battery module 10 and the second wiring module 20B is attached to the second battery module 10.

[0082] Next, a structure concerning the electrode connecting member 40 of the wiring modules 20C and 20D will be described with reference to Fig. 4. For the structure related to the electrode connection member 40 of the wiring module 20C, "-Y direction" and "+Y direction" in the description may be interchanged with respect to the second electrode connection member 40B of the wiring module 20B described above. For the structure related to the electrode connection member 40 of the wiring module 20D, "-Y direction" and "+Y direction" in the above description may be interchanged with respect to the first electrode connection member 40A of the wiring module 20A. In the present embodiment, an example of another connection module set MS is constituted by the wiring module 20C and the wiring module 20D.

[0083] Next, the wiring module 20E is described with reference to Fig. 2. The wiring module 20E is located on the side furthest in the -X direction among the plurality of wiring modules 20. The wiring module 20E includes an external connection terminal ES that is connected to an external component of the battery pack 1 (for example, a power supply that supplies power to a vehicle body on which the battery pack 1 is mounted). <5. Routing module>

[0084] Next, the routing module 80 is described.

[0085] Fig. 11 is a perspective view illustrating the routing module 80. The routing module 80 is a member for collecting signals received from the plurality of wiring modules 20 and transmitting the collected signals to the outside. The routing module 80 includes, for example, a substrate 81, a plurality of individual connectors 82, a wiring member 83, and a connector plug 84. <5.1 Substrate>

[0086] The substrate 81 is a member that serves as a base of the routing module 80. The substrate 81 is made of an insulating material such as a synthetic resin and has insulating properties. The substrate 81 extends in the X direction. The substrate 81 faces the plurality of wiring modules 20 from the +-Z direction side. <5.2 Single connector>

[0087] The individual connector 82 is a connecting portion to be connected to each wiring module 20. The plurality of individual connectors 82 are attached to a surface of the substrate 81 on the -Z direction side. The individual connector 82 is connected to the wiring member 83. The individual connector 82 is arranged at a position corresponding to the connector 62 of each wiring module 20. The individual connector 82 is detachably connected to the connector 62 of each wiring module 20 from the +Z direction. <5.3 Wiring element>

[0088] The wiring element 83 is an element with a wiring 83a (see Fig. 9) for transmitting a signal received through the single connector 82 to the connecting plug 84. The wiring member 83 is, for example, a flat wiring member. The wiring member 83 is a flexible flat cable (FFC), a flexible printed circuit (FPC), or the like. The wiring member 83 has a film shape extending along the X-direction and the Y-direction. The wiring 83a of the wiring member 83 is electrically connected to the plurality of wirings 53 provided in the plurality of wiring modules 20, respectively, via the plurality of single connectors 82. <5.4 Connectors>

[0089] The connecting plug 84 is a connector that is detachably connected to a signal processing unit (for example, a monitoring unit that monitors a state of the battery pack 1) that performs signal processing with respect to the battery pack 1. The signal processing unit may exist as a part of the battery pack 1 or may exist as an external device of the battery pack 1. The connecting plug 84 is arranged, for example, at the end of the routing module 80 on the +X direction side. The connecting plug 84 transmits information received from the plurality of wiring modules 20 to the signal processing unit via the plurality of individual connectors 82. <6. Other superstructures>

[0090] Next, with further reference to Fig. 1, an insulating element 91, an end plate 92 and a coupling element 93 are described. <6.1 Insulating element>

[0091] A plurality of insulating members 91 include a first insulating member 91A and a second insulating member 91B. Each of the first insulating member 91A and the second insulating member 91B has a plate shape extending along the Y direction and the Z direction. The first insulating member 91A and the second insulating member 91B have elasticity. For example, the first insulating member 91A and the second insulating member 91B are made of an insulating material such as rubber and have elasticity. The first insulating member 91A is arranged toward the -X direction side with respect to the plurality of battery modules 10. The second insulating member 91B is arranged toward the +X direction side with respect to the plurality of battery modules 10. <6.2 End plate>

[0092] The plurality of end plates 92 include a first end plate 92A and a second end plate 92B. Each of the first end plate 92A and the second end plate 92B is a plate member extending along the Y direction and the Z direction. The first end plate 92A and the second end plate 92B are made of metal, for example, and have rigidity. The first end plate 92A is arranged toward the -X direction side with respect to the first insulating member 91A. The second end plate 92B is arranged toward the +X direction side with respect to the second insulating member 91B. <6.3 Coupling element>

[0093] The plurality of coupling elements 93 extend between the first end plate 92A and the second end plate 92B. The plurality of coupling elements 93 couple the first end plate 92A and the second end plate 92B. When the first end plate 92A and the second end plate 92B are coupled via the coupling element 93, the first end plate 92A applies a pressing force to the plurality of battery modules 10 via the first insulating element 91A. When the first end plate 92A and the second end plate 92B are coupled via the coupling element 93, the second end plate 92B applies a pressing force to the plurality of battery modules 10 via the second insulating element 91B. In this way, the plurality of battery modules 10 are retained. <7. Assembly procedure>

[0094] Next, a method for assembling the battery pack 1 will be described.

[0095] First, the wiring module 20 is attached to the first end 11EA and the second end 11EB of each battery module 10. As a result, a battery module assembly AS including one battery module 10 and two wiring modules 20 divided on both sides in the Y direction of the battery module 10 is obtained.

[0096] Next, the plurality of battery module assemblies AS are arranged side by side in the X direction. For example, the distal end 42A (protruding end) of the first electrode connecting member 40A of one battery module assembly AS (first battery module assembly) is inserted into the distal end 42B (holder) of the second electrode connecting member 40B of another battery module assembly AS (second battery module assembly). The protrusion 71 of the first battery module assembly AS is also engaged with the engagement hole 72 of the second battery module assembly AS.

[0097] Next, the plurality of insulating members 91, the plurality of end plates 92, and the plurality of coupling members 93 are attached to retain the plurality of battery module assemblies AS in a state where the plurality of battery module assemblies AS are stacked. Next, two routing modules 80 are attached to the plurality of battery module assemblies AS. Thus, the battery pack 1 is completed. <8. Modification examples>

[0098] Next, several modification examples will be described. Note that a structure other than that described below for each modification example is the same as the structure of the above-described embodiment. <8.1 First modification example: cell balancing circuit>

[0099] Fig. 12 is an electrical circuit diagram illustrating a structure of a wiring module 20 of a first modification example. In the present modification example, the wiring module 20 includes a cell balancing circuit 110. The cell balancing circuit 110 is a circuit that corrects a deviation in a storage amount of the plurality of battery cells 12. The cell balancing circuit 110 includes, for example, a plurality of dischargers 111. The discharger 111 is electrically connected between two adjacent voltage detection terminals 14. The discharger 111 includes, for example, a resistor 111a and a transistor 111b. The transistor 111b is electrically connected in series with the resistor 111a.Based on a control signal received from the signal processing unit via the routing module 80, the transistor 111b switches between a conductive state and a non-conductive state to balance voltages or residual capacities of the plurality of battery cells 12.

[0100] Each of the resistor 111a and the transistor 111b is a component used in conjunction with the battery module 10. The discharger 111 (the resistor 111a and the transistor 111b) is provided, for example, in a main body 51 of the wiring member 50. Each of the resistor 111a and the transistor 111b is an example of an "electronic component." Note that in a case where the discharger 111 is formed of a chip component (integrated circuit component), the chip component is an example of an "electronic component." <8.2 Second modification example: signal processor>

[0101] Fig. 13 is an electrical circuit diagram illustrating a structure of a wiring module 20 of a second modification example. In the present modification example, the wiring module 20 includes a signal processor 120. The signal processor 120 is a functional unit that performs processing on a signal flowing through the wiring 53 of the wiring module 20. For example, the signal processor 120 is electrically connected between the plurality of voltage detection terminals 14 and the connector 62. The signal processor 120 includes, for example, one or more chip components (integrated circuit components) 121 that perform signal processing. The signal processor 120 (chip component 121) is provided, for example, in the main body 51 of the wiring member 50. The chip component 121 is a component used in conjunction with the battery module 10.The chip component 121 is an example of an “electronic component”.

[0102] In the present modification example, the signal processor 120 performs processing on a signal flowing from each voltage detection terminal 14 to the wiring 53. For example, the signal processor 120 detects a voltage value of the battery cell 12 based on the magnitude of the voltage applied from each voltage detection terminal 14 to the wiring 53. The signal processor 120 generates a signal indicating the detected voltage value of the battery cell 12.

[0103] In addition, the signal processor 120 performs processing on a signal flowing from the thermistor 61 to the wiring 53. For example, the signal processor 120 detects a temperature value of the battery cell 12 based on a voltage difference between both ends of the thermistor 61. The signal processor 120 generates a signal indicating the detected temperature value of the battery cell 12.

[0104] In the present modification example, the signal processor 120 includes a communication circuit 130. The communication circuit 130 is a circuit having a function of communicating with the signal processing unit. The communication circuit 130 converts a signal (for example, a signal indicating a voltage value of the battery cell 12 and / or a signal indicating a temperature value of the battery cell 12) generated by the signal processor 120 into a signal suitable for data communication, such as a packet. The communication circuit 130 transmits the converted signal to the signal processing unit via the connector 62 and the routing module 80 through data communication.

[0105] The communication circuit 130 includes, for example, one or more chip components (integrated circuit components) 131 that perform communication processing. The communication circuit 130 (chip component 131) is provided, for example, in the main body 51 of the wiring member 50. The chip component 131 is a component used in conjunction with the battery module 10. The chip component 131 is an example of an "electronic component."

[0106] In the present modification example, the signal processor 120 is connected to the connector 62 via one or more wirings 54. The number of wirings 54 between the signal processor 120 and the connector 62 is smaller than the number of wirings 53 between the signal processor 120 and the plurality of voltage detection terminals 14. The communication circuit 130 sequentially transmits signals indicating voltage values ​​of the plurality of voltage detection terminals 14 (the plurality of battery cells 12) at different timings. The communication circuit 130 outputs the signals indicating the voltage values ​​of the plurality of voltage detection terminals 14 (the plurality of battery cells 12) to the signal processing unit via the wirings 54, the number of which is smaller than the number of the plurality of voltage detection terminals 14.

[0107] Note that signal processing performed by the signal processor 120 is not limited to the above-described example. For example, instead of / in addition to the above example, the signal processor 120 may generate a control signal for operating the cell balancing circuit 110 based on the magnitude of a voltage applied from each voltage detection terminal 14 to the wiring 53, and output the generated control signal to the cell balancing circuit 110. Furthermore, the signal processing performed by the signal processor 120 may include noise removal, averaging, comparison with a predetermined threshold, or the like for a signal obtained from the electrode terminal 13, the voltage detection terminal 14, or the thermistor 61. <8.3 Third modification example: first different aspect of the electrode connecting element>

[0108] Fig. 14 is a side view illustrating the first wiring module 20A and the second wiring module 20B of the third modification example. In the present modification example, the distal end 42B of the second electrode connecting member 40B includes a plate spring member 45. The plate spring member 45 includes a pair of terminals 45a and 45b, a base 45c, and an insertion space 46. The terminal 45a has a plate shape extending along the X direction and the Z direction. On the other hand, the terminal 45b is folded back toward the inside of the insertion space 46. The terminal 45b is elastically deformable in the Y direction. For example, the terminal 45b is elastically deformable in the Y direction with respect to the base 45c.

[0109] In the present modification example, the distal end 42A of the first wiring module 20A is press-fitted toward an innermost portion of the insertion space 46, while the clamp 45b is elastically deformed to widen a gap (insertion space 46) between the terminals 45a and 45b in the Y direction. In this case, the distal end 42A of the first wiring module 20A is pressed by the clamps 45a and 45b from both sides in the Y direction. For example, the plate 42p of the distal end 42A of the first wiring module 20A is clamped by the clamps 45a and 45b from both sides in the Y direction.

[0110] In the present modification example, the clamp 45b has, for example, one or more (e.g., a plurality of) slits SL. The plurality of slits SL are arranged separately from each other in the Z direction. Each of the plurality of slits SL extends from the end of the clamp 45b in the -X direction to the +X direction. When the slit SL is provided, even in a case where the first electrode connecting member 40A is inclined with respect to the second electrode connecting member 40B, the clamp 45b can be elastically deformed according to the inclination of the first electrode connecting member 40A. If the clamp 45b can be elastically deformed according to the inclination of the first electrode connecting member 40A, the first electrode connecting member 40A and the second electrode connecting member 40B can be easily connected more firmly. <8.4 Fourth modification example: second different aspect of the electrode connecting element>

[0111] Fig. 15 is a side view illustrating a first wiring module 20A and a second wiring module 20B of a fourth modification example. The first wiring module 20A includes a first electrode connecting member 40A' as the electrode connecting member 40. The first electrode connecting member 40A' is, for example, a connector engaging member. The first electrode connecting member 40A' is, for example, a plate member extending along the X direction and the Z direction. The first electrode connecting member 40A' has a distal end 42A' protruding in the +X direction. The distal end 42A' includes a plate 42p extending along the X direction and the Z direction. The distal end 42A' is an example of a "protruding end."

[0112] The second wiring module 20B includes a second electrode connecting member 40B' as the electrode connecting member 40. The second electrode connecting member 40B' is, for example, a female engagement member. The second electrode connecting member 40B' includes, for example, a tubular distal end 42B' having a space into which the distal end 42A' of the first electrode connecting member 40A' is inserted. The distal end 42B' holds the inserted distal end 42A (protruding end) of the first wiring module 20A. The distal end 42B' is an example of a "holder."

[0113] In the present modification example, the distal end 42B' includes a cylinder 140 with a slit. That is, the distal end 42B' includes a plurality of slits SL. Each of the plurality of slits SL extends from a first end 140a, which is the end of the distal end 42B' on the -X direction side, in the +X direction. The distal end 42B' includes the plurality of slits SL and is thus easily elastically deformed toward the outer peripheral side of the cylinder 140. For example, the distal end 42B' is elastically deformable at least in the Y direction. In the present modification example, the distal end 42B' is elastically deformable in both the Y direction and the Z direction. The cylinder 140 includes, for example, a pair of clamps 45a and 45b, a base 45c, and an insertion space 46.

[0114] In the present modification example, in a case where the first wiring module 20A and the second wiring module 20B are connected, the distal end 42A' (protruding end) of the first wiring module 20A is press-fitted toward an innermost part of the insertion space 46 while elastically deforming the distal end 42B' to widen the tubular distal end 42B' (holder) of the second wiring module 20B toward the outer peripheral side (for example, to widen a gap between the terminals 45a and 45b in the Y direction). In this case, the distal end 42A' of the first wiring module 20A is pressed by the distal end 42B' from the outer peripheral side (for example, pressed by the terminals 45a and 45b from both sides in the Y direction). As a result, the first wiring module 20A and the second wiring module 20B are physically and electrically connected.The plate 42p of the distal end 42A' of the first wiring module 20A is clamped by the terminals 45a and 45b from both sides in the Y direction. <9. Advantages><9.1 Advantages from a first perspective>

[0115] As a comparative example, in a battery pack in which a plurality of battery modules are arranged side by side, a structure is considered in which each battery module has a plurality of detection terminals, and a single electrical connection component is attached to each of the plurality of detection terminals. In the structure of the comparative example, the work of attaching the single electrical connection component to each of the plurality of detection terminals is complicated, and the assembly workability of the battery pack may deteriorate. This tendency may be significant in a case where the number of battery modules included in a battery pack increases as the capacity of the battery pack increases.

[0116] On the other hand, in the present embodiment, the wiring module 20 includes an insulating substrate 30 and a wiring member 50. In a case of assuming that a direction in which the plurality of battery modules 10 are arranged is a first direction, and that a direction different from the first direction is a second direction, the substrate 30 is arranged to face the first end 11EA in the second direction of a battery module 10 included in the plurality of battery modules 10. The wiring member 50 includes a main body 51 supported by the substrate 30 and a plurality of terminal connecting portions 52A that branch mutually from and extend from the main body 51, and are each connected to a plurality of detection terminals (for example, voltage detection terminals 14) provided at the first end 11EA of the battery module 10.According to such a structure, even in a case where the battery module 10 has a plurality of detection terminals, electrical connection to the plurality of detection terminals can be realized by using one wiring member 50. If the electrical connection to the plurality of detection terminals can be realized by using one wiring member 50, the assembly feasibility of the battery pack 1 can be improved compared to a case where a single electrical connection component is attached to each of the plurality of detection terminals.

[0117] In the present embodiment, the plurality of voltage detection terminals 14 includes three or more detection terminals arranged in parallel. The plurality of terminal connection portions 52A includes three or more terminal connection portions 52A, each connected to the three or more detection terminals. According to such a configuration, even in a case where three or more detection terminals are arranged in parallel, electrical connection to the three or more detection terminals can be easily realized.

[0118] In the present embodiment, the substrate 30 includes a plurality of partition walls 34 that electrically insulate the plurality of detection terminals from each other. The plurality of terminal connecting portions 52A extend separately within a plurality of regions R defined by the plurality of partition walls 34. According to such a structure, the plurality of terminal connecting portions 52A can extend separately within the plurality of regions R defined by the plurality of partition walls 34. When the plurality of terminal connecting portions 52A can extend separately within the plurality of regions R, insulation between the plurality of terminal connecting portions 52A can be ensured at a higher level.

[0119] In the present embodiment, the plurality of detection terminals are arranged side by side in a third direction different from the first direction and the second direction. The plurality of terminal connecting portions 52A are arranged to respectively face the plurality of detection terminals from the first direction. According to such a configuration, the direction in which the plurality of detection terminals are arranged differs from the direction in which the plurality of terminal connecting portions 52A are connected to the plurality of detection terminals. When these directions are different from each other, for example, a gap between the plurality of detection terminals can be reduced compared to a case where the detection terminal and the terminal connecting portion 52A are connected in the third direction.If the gap between the plurality of detection terminals can be reduced, the battery pack 1 can be easily downsized.

[0120] In the present embodiment, the main body 51 of the wiring member 50 is arranged to face the substrate 30 from the second direction. The plurality of terminal connecting portions 52A are bent from the main body 51 and arranged to face the plurality of detection terminals from the first direction, respectively. According to such a structure, the main body 51 can be arranged with a larger area than that of the terminal connecting portion 52A in the first direction. If the main body 51 can be arranged in the first direction, the battery pack 1 can be easily downsized.

[0121] In the present embodiment, the wiring module 20 includes the electrode connecting member 40. The electrode connecting member 40 includes a base end 41 electrically connected to the electrode terminal 13 of the battery module 10 and a distal end 42 electrically connected to the electrode terminal 13 of another battery module 10. The wiring member 50 further includes a terminal connecting portion 52B connected to the electrode connecting member 40. According to such a configuration, the terminal connecting portion 52B connected to the electrode connecting member 40 and the plurality of terminal connecting portions 52A connected to the plurality of detection terminals can be implemented by using one wiring member 50.If the terminal connecting portion 52B and the plurality of terminal connecting portions 52A can be implemented by using one wiring member 50, the assembly workability of the battery pack 1 can be further improved.

[0122] In the present embodiment, the wiring module 20 further includes a thermistor 61 for detecting a temperature with respect to the battery module 10. The wiring member 50 further includes a thermistor connection portion 52C connected to the thermistor 61. According to such a configuration, the thermistor connection portion 52C and the plurality of terminal connection portions 52A can be implemented by using one wiring member 50. If the thermistor connection portion 52C and the plurality of terminal connection portions 52A can be implemented by using one wiring member 50, the assembly feasibility of the battery pack 1 can be further improved.

[0123] In the present embodiment, the wiring module 20 further includes a connector 62 supported by the substrate 30, to which the routing module 80 is detachably connected. The main body 51 is connected to the connector 62. According to such a structure, it is possible to improve the assembly operability of the battery pack 1 inside the wiring module 20 attached to each battery module 10.

[0124] In the first view, the wiring element 50 does not need to be provided with an electronic component. The electrode terminals 13 of the plurality of battery modules 10 can be connected using a connection structure that uses bolt fastening. <9.2 Advantages from a second perspective>

[0125] As a comparative example, in a battery pack including a plurality of battery modules, a structure is considered in which electronic components used in conjunction with each battery module are collectively arranged in a signal processing unit (e.g., a monitoring device) of the battery pack. In the structure of this comparative example, wiring between each battery module and the signal processing unit is complicated, and / or a size of the signal processing unit (e.g., a monitoring device) tends to be increased because the electronic components are collectively arranged, so it may be difficult to reduce the size of the battery pack. This tendency may be remarkable in a case where the number of battery modules included in a battery pack increases with the increase in the capacity of the battery pack.

[0126] On the other hand, in the present embodiment, the wiring module 20 includes an insulating substrate 30, a wiring member 50, and an electronic component. In a case where a direction in which the plurality of battery modules 10 are arranged is assumed to be a first direction and a direction different from the first direction is assumed to be a second direction, the substrate 30 is disposed to face the first end 11EA in the second direction of a battery module 10 included in the plurality of battery modules 10. The wiring member 50 includes a main body 51 supported by the substrate 30 and a terminal connecting portion 52A (or terminal connecting portion 52B) extending from the main body 51 and connected to a detection terminal provided at the first end 11EA of the battery module 10.The electronic component is provided on the wiring member 50 and used in conjunction with the battery module 10. According to such a configuration, the electronic component is arranged using the wiring module 20, so that the wiring between the wiring module 20 and the signal processing unit (for example, a monitoring device) can be simplified, and / or a large number of electronic components can be suppressed from being collectively arranged in the signal processing unit (for example, a monitoring device). As a result, the battery pack 1 can be easily downsized. Note that simplification of wiring indicates, for example, a reduction in the number of wires, simplification of a wiring layout, or deletion or reduction of a protective function.

[0127] In the present embodiment, the electronic component is electrically connected to the detection terminal of the battery module 10 via the terminal connection portion 52A (or the terminal connection portion 52B). According to such a configuration, processing or operation related to a state of the detection terminal of the battery module 10 can be performed near the battery module 10. If such processing or operation can be performed near the battery module 10, the wiring between the wiring module 20 and the signal processing unit can be further simplified. As a result, the battery pack 1 can be more easily downsized.

[0128] In the present embodiment, the wiring module 20 includes a connector 62 to which the routing module 80 of the battery pack 1 is detachably connected. The electronic component is electrically connected between the terminal of the battery module 10 and the connector 62. According to such a structure, since the wiring between the wiring module 20 and the signal processing unit can be simplified, the routing module 80 can be simplified. Simplifying the wiring module indicates, for example, reducing the number of wires in the wiring module, simplifying a wiring layout, or eliminating or reducing a protective function.

[0129] In the present embodiment, the main body 51 of the wiring member 50 is arranged to face the substrate 30 from the second direction. The terminal connecting portion 52A is bent from the main body 51 and arranged to face the detection terminal of the battery module 10 from the first direction. The electronic component is provided in the main body 51 of the wiring member 50. According to such a configuration, the electronic component is arranged by utilizing the second direction in which a spatial margin is likely to occur compared with the first direction, so it is easy to suppress an increase in the size of the wiring module 20 even in a case where the electronic component is provided in the wiring module 20.In addition, since the electronic component is provided in the main body 51, the electronic component can be stably mounted, compared with the case where the electronic component is provided in the terminal connecting portion 52A.

[0130] In the present embodiment, the electronic component is the fuse component 63, which is electrically connected to the detection terminal of the battery module 10. According to such a structure, since a protective function can be provided with respect to a state of the detection terminal of the battery module 10 near the battery module 10, the wiring between the wiring module 20 and the signal processing unit can be simplified more easily.

[0131] In the present embodiment, the wiring module 20 further includes a cell balancing circuit 110 provided in the wiring member 50. The electronic component is a component (for example, the resistor 111a or the transistor 111b) included in the cell balancing circuit 110. According to such a structure, since the cell balancing circuit 110 corresponding to each battery module 10 can be provided near the battery module 10, the wiring between the wiring module 20 and the signal processing unit can be simplified more easily.

[0132] In the present embodiment, the wiring module 20 further includes an information processor 120 provided in the wiring member 50 and performing processing with respect to a signal received from the detection terminal of the battery module 10. The electronic component is a component included in the information processor 120. According to such a structure, since the signal processing corresponding to each battery module 10 can be realized near the battery module 10, the wiring between the wiring module 20 and the signal processing unit can be simplified more easily.

[0133] In the present embodiment, the wiring module 20 further includes a communication circuit 130 that converts a signal received from the detection terminal of the battery module 10 and transmits the converted signal. The electronic component is a component included in the communication circuit 130. According to such a structure, information detected inside the wiring module 20 can be transmitted through data communication. Therefore, the number of wirings between the wiring module 20 and the signal processing unit can be easily reduced.

[0134] In the second view, the wiring member 50 does not need to include the plurality of terminal connecting portions 52A that branch to each other. The electrode terminals 13 of the plurality of battery modules 10 can be connected by using a connection structure using bolt fastening. <9.3 Advantages from a third perspective>

[0135] As a comparative example, in a battery pack in which a plurality of battery modules are arranged in the first direction, a structure is considered in which a connection structure is implemented by bolt fastening from a direction different from the first direction in a case where electrodes of the plurality of battery modules are connected to each other. In the structure of the comparative example, the work of connecting the electrodes of the plurality of battery modules by bolt fastening is complicated, and the assembly workability of the battery pack may deteriorate. This tendency may be remarkable in a case where the number of battery modules included in a battery pack increases as the capacity of the battery pack increases.

[0136] On the other hand, in the present embodiment, the connection module set MS is a member used for the battery pack 1 including the first battery module 10 and the second battery module 10 adjacent to the first battery module 10 in the first direction. The connection module set MS includes a first wiring module 20A and a second wiring module 20B. The first wiring module 20A includes an insulating first substrate 30A and a first electrode connection member 40A supported by the first substrate 30A. The first substrate 30A is arranged to face the first end 11EA of the first battery module 10. The first electrode connection member 40A includes a base end 41A electrically connected to the first electrode terminal 13 of the first battery module 10 and a distal end 42A (protruding end) protruding in the first direction.The second wiring module 20B includes an insulating second substrate 30B and a second electrode connecting member 40B supported by the second substrate 30B. The second substrate 30B is arranged to face the first end 11EA of the second battery module 10. The second electrode connecting member 40B includes a base end 41B electrically connected to the second electrode terminal 13 of the second battery module 10, and a distal end 42B (holder) into which the distal end 42A (protruding end) of the first electrode connecting member 40A is inserted and held. According to such a structure, since the two battery modules 10 are arranged side by side in the first direction, the first electrode connecting member 40A is held by the second electrode connecting member 40B.When such a support structure is provided, the assembling feasibility of the battery pack 1 can be improved compared with a case where such a support structure is not provided.

[0137] In the present embodiment, the distal end 42B (holder) of the second electrode connecting member 40B has a portion that is elastically deformable in a direction intersecting the first direction and holds the distal end 42A (projecting end) of the first electrode connecting member 40A. According to such a configuration, at least a part of the distal end 42B (holder) of the second electrode connecting member 40B is elastically deformed, and thus the distal end 42A of the first electrode connecting member 40A is more firmly held. When the distal end 42A of the first electrode connecting member 40A is more firmly held, the assembly workability of the battery pack 1 is improved. In the present disclosure, the "direction intersecting the first direction (for example, the X direction)" is not limited to the second direction (for example, the Y direction) and may be the third direction (for example, the Z direction).

[0138] In the present embodiment, the distal end 42B (holder) of the second electrode connecting member 40B is elastically deformable at least in the second direction, and includes clamps 45a and 45b that clamp the distal end 42A (protruding end) of the first electrode connecting member 40A from both sides in the second direction. According to such a structure, the distal end 42A (protruding end) of the first electrode connecting member 40A is clamped and difficult to remove, so that the assembly workability of the battery pack 1 can be easily improved.

[0139] In the present embodiment, in a case where a direction intersecting the first direction and the second direction is defined as the third direction, the distal end 42A (protruding end) of the first electrode connecting member 40A includes a plate 42p extending along the first direction and the third direction. The clamps 45a and 45b clamp the plate 42p from both sides in the second direction. According to such a configuration, it is possible to ensure a large connection structure between the distal end 42A of the first electrode connecting member 40A and the clamps 45a and 45b while suppressing an increase in the width of the battery pack 1 in the Y direction.

[0140] In the present embodiment, the distal end 42B (holder) of the second electrode connecting member 40B includes a cylinder 140. The cylinder 140 includes a first end 140a on the first wiring module 20A side and a plurality of slits SL each extending from the first end 140a toward a direction away from the first wiring module 20A. According to such a configuration, it is possible to realize a structure in which the distal end 42A (projecting end) of the first electrode connecting member 40A is held by the cylinder 140 having the slit SL.

[0141] In the present embodiment, one of the first substrate 30A and the second substrate 30B includes a protrusion 71 protruding in the first direction. The other of the first substrate 30A and the second substrate 30B includes an engagement hole 72 into which the protrusion 71 is inserted. According to such a structure, in addition to the connection between the first electrode connecting member 40A and the second electrode connecting member 40B, the first substrate 30A and the second substrate 30B are engaged with each other, so that more stable assembly work can be performed.

[0142] In the present embodiment, the first wiring module 20A and the second wiring module 20B are combined with each other after the first wiring module 20A is attached to the first battery module 10 and the second wiring module 20B is attached to the second battery module 10. According to such a configuration, the first electrode connecting member 40A and the second electrode connecting member 40B can be connected as part of the work of arranging the plurality of battery modules 10 in the first direction.

[0143] In the third view, the wiring member 50 does not need to have the plurality of terminal connecting portions 52A that branch to each other. Furthermore, the wiring member 50 does not need to be provided with an electronic component.

[0144] The embodiment and the plurality of modification examples have been described above. However, the embodiment and the modification examples are not limited to the above-described examples. For example, the above-described modification examples can be implemented in combination with each other. In the above-described embodiment, the battery module 10 is a bipolar battery module. Alternatively, the battery module 10 may be a monopolar battery module. The first wiring module 20A does not need to include the substrate 30. That is, the first electrode connecting member 40A can be directly attached to the battery module 10. The second wiring module 20B does not need to include the substrate 30. That is, the second electrode connecting member 40B can be directly attached to the battery module 10.While preferred embodiments of the invention have been described and illustrated above, it should be understood that these are exemplary examples of the invention and are not to be considered limiting. Additions, omissions, substitutions, and other modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the invention is not to be considered limited by the foregoing description, but is limited only by the scope of the appended claims. Industrial applicability

[0145] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a connection module set, an electrode connecting member set, and a battery pack capable of improving assembly feasibility of the battery pack. LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS 1 battery pack 10 Battery module 11 Enclosure 12 battery cells 13 Electrode connection (detection connection) 13A Positive electrode terminal (detection terminal) 13B Negative electrode terminal (detection terminal) 14 Voltage detection terminal (detection terminal) 20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E wiring module 30 Substrat 30A First substrate 30B Second substrate 34 Partition wall 40 Electrode connecting element 40A First electrode connecting element 40B Second electrode connecting element 41 Base end of the electrode connecting element 41A Base end of the first electrode connecting element 41B Base end of the second electrode connecting element 42 Distal end of the electrode connecting element 42A Distal end (protruding end) of the first electrode connecting element 42B Distal end (holder) of the second electrode connecting element 45a, 45b terminal 50 wiring element 51 main body 52A, 52B terminal connection section 53 Wiring 61 Thermistor 62 connectors 63 Security component 110 Cell balancing circuit 111 Discharger (electronic component) 111a Resistor (electronic component) 111b Transistor (electronic component) 120 Information processor 121 Chip component (electronic component) 130 Communication circuit 131 chip component (electronic component) QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] JP 2021-82395

[0002] JP 2015-187909

[0002]

Claims

[1] A connection module set (MS) which is an element set used for a battery pack (1) having a first battery module (10) and a second battery module (10) adjacent to the first battery module (10) in a first direction, the connection module set (MS) comprising: a first connection module (20A) having an insulating first substrate (30A) arranged to face an end (11E) of the first battery module (10) in a second direction, in a case where the second direction is a direction intersecting the first direction, and a first electrode connection member (40A) supported by the first substrate (30A), the first electrode connection member (40A) having a base end (41A) electrically connected to a first electrode terminal (13) of the first battery module (10) and a projecting end (42A) projecting in the first direction; and a second connection module (20B) having an insulating second substrate (30B) arranged to face one end (11E) of the second battery module (10) in the second direction, and a second electrode connection member (40B) supported by the second substrate (30B), the second electrode connection member (40B) having a base end (41B) electrically connected to a second electrode terminal (13) of the second battery module (10), and a holder (42B) into which the projecting end (42A) of the first electrode connection member (40A) of the first connection module (20A) is inserted and held from the first direction. [2] The connection module set (MS) according to claim 1, wherein the holder (42B) has a portion that is elastically deformable in a direction intersecting the first direction and holds the projecting end (42A). [3] Connection module set (MS) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the holder (42B) has a clamp (45a, 45b) which is elastically deformable at least in the second direction and clamps the projecting end (42A) from both sides in the second direction. [4] Connection module set (MS) according to claim 3, wherein in a case where a direction intersecting the first direction and the second direction is a third direction, the projecting end (42A) has a plate (42p) extending along the first direction and the third direction, and wherein the clamp (45a, 45b) clamps the plate (42p) from both sides in the second direction. [5] The connection module set (MS) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the holder (42B) comprises a cylinder (140), and the cylinder (140) has a first end (140a) on a side of the first connection module (20A) and a plurality of slots (SL) each extending from the first end (140a) in a direction away from the first connection module (20A). [6] Connection module set (MS) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein one of the first substrate (30A) and the second substrate (30B) has a projection (71) projecting in the first direction, and another of the first substrate (30A) and the second substrate (30B) has an engagement hole (72) into which the projection (71) is inserted from the first direction. [7] The connection module set (MS) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first connection module (20A) and the second connection module (20B) are combined with each other after the first connection module (20A) is attached to the first battery module (10) and the second connection module (20B) is attached to the second battery module (10). [8] An electrode connecting element set (TS) which is an element set used for a battery pack (1) having a first battery module (10) and a second battery module (10) adjacent to the first battery module (10) in a first direction, the electrode connecting element set comprising: a first electrode connecting member (40A) having a base end (41A) overlapping one end (11E) of the first battery module (10) when viewed from a second direction in a case where the second direction is a direction intersecting the first direction, and electrically connected to a first electrode terminal (13) of the first battery module (10), and a protruding end (42A) protruding in the first direction;and a second electrode connecting member (40B) having a base end (41B) overlapping one end (11E) of the second battery module (10) when viewed from the second direction and electrically connected to a second electrode terminal (13) of the second battery module (10), and a holder (42B) having a portion elastically deformable in a direction intersecting the first direction and into which the projecting end (42A) of the first electrode connecting member (40A) is inserted and held from the first direction; [9] Battery pack (1), with: a first battery module (10); a second battery module (10) adjacent to the first battery module (10) in a first direction; a first connection module (20A) having an insulating first substrate (30A) arranged to face an end (11E) of the first battery module (10) in a second direction, in a case where the second direction is a direction intersecting the first direction, and a first electrode connection member (40A) supported by the first substrate (30A), the first electrode connection member (40A) having a base end (41A) electrically connected to a first electrode terminal (13) of the first battery module (10) and a projecting end (42A) projecting in the first direction; and a second connection module (20B) having an insulating second substrate (30B) arranged to face one end (11E) of the second battery module (10) in the second direction, and a second electrode connection element (40B) supported by the second substrate (30B), the second electrode connection element (40B) having a base end (41B) electrically connected to a second electrode terminal (13) of the second battery module (10), and a holder (42B) into which the projecting end (42A) of the first electrode connection element (40A) of the first connection module (20A) is inserted and held from the first direction.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • 2015-187909

  • 2021-82395