Energy storage device

Abstract

An energy storage device (1) comprises: an energy storage module (100) having a plurality of energy storage cells (110); and a housing (200) that accommodates the energy storage module (100). The housing (200) comprises an upper cover (220) that covers the energy storage module (100) from above and a lower cover (210) that covers the energy storage module (100) from below. The energy storage module (100) is attached to the upper cover (220). The lower cover (210) is removably attached to the upper cover (220).

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This non-provisional application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-026639 filed with the Japan Patent Office on February 26, 2024, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference. BACKGROUND area

[0002] The present invention relates to an energy storage device. Description of the state of the art

[0003] JP 2023 - 046 945 A discloses a battery pack that accommodates multiple battery modules. The battery housing, which forms the outer shell of the battery pack, consists of an upper and a lower housing. The battery module is mounted on the lower housing. SUMMARY

[0004] Since the battery module is mounted on the bottom case, as mentioned above, repairing the bottom case (bottom cover) is difficult.

[0005] The present invention is intended to solve the above-mentioned problem, and an object of the present invention is to provide an energy storage device whose lower case cover is easily removable.

[0006] An energy storage device according to one aspect of the present invention includes an energy storage module having a plurality of energy storage cells and a housing in which the energy storage module is housed. The housing includes a first cover covering the energy storage module from above and a second cover covering the energy storage module from below. The energy storage module is attached to the first cover. The second cover is removably attached to the first cover. It should be noted that "removable attachment" refers to the attachment of objects in such a way that they can be removed non-destructively. "Permanent attachment," on the other hand, refers to the attachment of objects in such a way that at least one of the objects is destroyed when they are separated from each other (e.g., the surface peels off).

[0007] In the energy storage device according to one aspect of the present invention, the energy storage module is attached to the first cover, and the second cover is detachably attached to the first cover, as mentioned above. Since the energy storage module remains attached to the first cover even when the second cover is removed from the first cover, the energy storage module can be prevented from being removed from the first cover together with the second cover. This allows the second cover to be easily removed from the first cover.

[0008] The energy storage device may further include a third cover beneath the second cover. The second cover may have greater rigidity than the third cover. With such a configuration, the third cover may prevent the second cover from being damaged by a foreign object protruding from beneath the energy storage module. Because the second cover also has greater rigidity than the third cover, the second cover may be better protected from damage than if the rigidity of the second cover is less than or equal to the rigidity of the third cover.

[0009] The third cover may be detachably attached to the second cover from below. In such a configuration, the third cover may be removed from the second cover, for example, if the third cover is damaged.

[0010] In an area where the housing overlaps the energy storage module in an up-down direction, the distance in the up-down direction between the second cover and the third cover is smaller than the distance in the up-down direction between the second cover and the energy storage module. With such a configuration, the height of the energy storage device in the up-down direction can be reduced compared to a configuration where the distance in the up-down direction between the second cover and the third cover is greater than or equal to the distance in the up-down direction between the second cover and the energy storage module.In addition, since the distance in the up-down direction between the second cover and the energy storage module is large, the evacuation route for the smoke evacuated downward from the energy storage module can be easily ensured and the energy storage module can be protected from the disturbance (impact) from below.

[0011] The first cover may include a top plate above the energy storage module and a mounting unit on the top plate. The energy storage module may be attached to the mounting unit, and the second cover may be attached to the mounting unit from below. With such a configuration, less stress may be exerted on the top plate than if the second cover were attached directly to the top plate.

[0012] The mounting unit can extend downward from the top plate. With such a configuration, the second cover and the mounting unit can be easily connected to each other under the top plate.

[0013] The energy storage device may further include: a frame member that surrounds the fixing unit and the energy storage module; and a sealing member that seals between the frame member and the second cover. The first cover and the second cover may be fixed to the frame member. The sealing member may be arranged in a vicinity where the second cover is fixed to the frame member. With such a configuration, the sealing member can prevent water or the like from entering between the second cover and the frame member. Note that surrounding the fixing unit and the energy storage module includes not only surrounding the fixing unit and the energy storage module in the circumferential direction, but also sandwiching the fixing unit and the energy storage module in a predetermined direction. The proximityEnvironment includes not only the destination but also the surroundings of the destination.

[0014] The second cover may be attached to the frame member below the energy storage module. Such a configuration can prevent the second cover from interfering with the energy storage module when the second cover is removed (disassembled downwards).

[0015] The energy storage device may further include a fastening member that fastens the second cover and the fastening unit. The second cover may include a cover body and a protruding rib that recedes upward from the cover body. The fastening member can fasten the protruding rib and the fastening unit. With such a configuration, the second cover has increased mechanical strength compared to the second cover without the protruding rib. Since the fastening point between the fastening member and the protruding rib is located at the protruding rib, the fastening point can be shaped upward compared to the second cover with the protruding rib. This can protect the fastening member from the impact of disturbances from below (disturbance from below).

[0016] The fastener may be arranged so that its lower end in the up-down direction is at the same position as or above a bottom surface of the cover body. With such a configuration, the fastener can be better protected from the impact of a disturbance from below (disturbance from below).

[0017] The second cover may have greater rigidity than the first cover. Such a configuration can prevent damage (breakage) to the second cover compared to a second cover with lower rigidity than the first cover.

[0018] In the area where the housing overlaps the energy storage module in the up-down direction, the distance in the up-down direction between the first cover and the energy storage module may be smaller than the distance in the up-down direction between the second cover and the energy storage module. With such a configuration, the height of the energy storage device in the up-down direction can be reduced compared to the case where the distance in the up-down direction between the first cover and the energy storage module is greater than or equal to the distance in the up-down direction between the second cover and the energy storage module.In addition, since the distance in the up-down direction between the second cover and the energy storage module is comparatively large, the evacuation path for the smoke evacuated downward from the energy storage module can be easily ensured and the disturbance (impact) can be prevented from being introduced into the energy storage module from below.

[0019] The above and other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of the present invention when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a vehicle having an energy storage device mounted thereon according to an embodiment. Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the energy storage device according to the embodiment, seen from above. Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the energy storage device of Fig. 2, along a III-III line. Fig. 4 is a schematic view showing a configuration of an upper crosspiece. Fig. Figure 5 is an enlarged partial view of the energy storage device near the upper crosspiece and the lower crosspiece of Fig. 3. Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the energy storage device of Fig. 2, taken along a VI-VI line. Fig. 7 is an enlarged partial view of the energy storage device near the energy storage module of Fig. 2. Fig. Figure 8 is an enlarged partial view of the energy storage device near the upper and lower crosspieces of Fig. 6. Fig. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a method for removing the bottom cover from the energy storage device according to the embodiment. Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the energy storage device in step S4 of Fig. 9. Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the energy storage device in step S5 of Fig. 9. Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the energy storage device in step S6 of Fig. 9. Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a configuration of the energy storage device according to variation 1 of the embodiment, viewed from above. Fig. 14 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of a configuration of the energy storage device near the bottom of the lower cover according to variation 2 of the embodiment. DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0020] Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Reference will be made below to the drawings, in which like reference numerals are used to refer to like or corresponding elements.

[0021] Fig. 1 is a diagram showing a vehicle 10 with an energy storage device 1 mounted thereon according to an embodiment of the present invention. The energy storage device 1 is a device for storing energy for propulsion of the vehicle 10. The vehicle 10 includes, for example, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), a battery electric vehicle (BEV), or a fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV).

[0022] The X, Y, and Z directions as used herein are directions that are orthogonal to each other. For example, the X and Y directions may be the longitudinal direction and left-right direction of the vehicle 10. The Z direction may be the up-down (vertical) direction. Note that the Z direction is an example of an up-down direction according to the present invention. A Z1 side and a Z2 side are examples of "over" and "under," respectively, according to the present invention.

[0023] In addition to the energy storage device 1, the vehicle 10 includes a vehicle body 11. The vehicle body 11 has an underbody 11a. The underbody 11a is arranged at the lower part (the floor) of the vehicle body 11. The energy storage device 1 is arranged on the underbody 11a. Specifically, the energy storage device 1 is fixed (attached) to the underbody 11a below the underbody 11a. Note that the underbody 11a is an example of a "floor" according to the present invention. <Konfiguration der Energiespeichervorrichtung>

[0024] With reference to Fig. 2, the energy storage device 1 includes an energy storage module 100, a housing 200, and a frame 300. The housing 200 accommodates the energy storage module 100. Note that the frame 300 is an example of a "frame member" according to the present invention.

[0025] As in Fig. As shown in FIG. 2, a plurality of energy storage modules 100 (three in the present embodiment) are provided in the energy storage device 1. The energy storage modules 100 are aligned in the X direction. Note that the number of energy storage modules 100 included in the energy storage device 1 may be other than three (e.g., one).

[0026] The energy storage modules 100 each comprise a plurality of energy storage cells 110 and a module housing 120. It should be noted that the module housing 120 is made of a metal such as aluminum.

[0027] Each energy storage module 100 houses a plurality of energy storage cells 110 in the module housing 120. The energy storage cells 110 of each energy storage module 100 are aligned (stacked) in the Y direction. The energy storage cells 110 each have a cuboid shape elongated in the X direction. In particular, the energy storage cell 110 is shaped such that the length in the X direction is greater than the length in the Y direction and the height in the Z direction. It should be noted that each energy storage cell 110 can be arranged such that the longitudinal direction runs in the Y direction.

[0028] The module housing 120 of each energy storage module 100 comprises a housing body 121 and a plurality of (eight in the present embodiment) connections 122. The housing body 121 has a hollow cuboid shape in which energy storage cells 110 are housed.

[0029] The connections 122 are arranged to extend in the X direction from the housing body 121. Specifically, four of the eight connections 122 extend from one side 121a of the housing body 121 to the X1 side. The remaining four of the eight connections 122 extend from one side 121b of the housing body 121 on the X2 side to the X2 side.

[0030] The four connections 122 of side 121a and the four connections 122 of side 121b are arranged at the same position in the Y direction. The four connections 122 are arranged at equal intervals on each side 121a and 121b. Note that the eight connections 122 are arranged at the same height in the Z direction.

[0031] Energy storage modules 100 that are adjacent to one another in the X direction are arranged such that their orientations in the Y direction are rotated by 180 degrees relative to one another. As a result, the positions of the connections 122 are shifted in the Y direction between energy storage modules 100 that are adjacent to one another in the X direction.

[0032] Referring to Fig. 3, the housing 200 comprises a lower cover 210, an upper cover 220 and a sub-plate 230 ( Fig. 3). The lower cover 210, the upper cover 220, and the sub-plate 230 are each formed of a metal (e.g., iron). Note that the upper cover 220 and the lower cover 210 are each an example of a "first cover" and a "second cover" according to the present invention, respectively. The sub-plate 230 is an example of a "third cover" according to the present invention.

[0033] The bottom cover 210 is located on the Z2 side of the energy storage modules 100 to cover the energy storage modules 100 from the Z2 side. The bottom cover 210 extends over the energy storage modules 100 in the X direction.

[0034] The upper cover 220 includes upper crosspieces or crossbeams 221. The upper cover 220 includes a plurality of (four in the present embodiment) upper crosspieces 221. The upper crosspieces 221 extend in the Y direction. The upper crosspieces 221 are aligned in the X direction. Specifically, the upper crosspieces 221 are arranged at equal intervals in the X direction. The energy storage modules 100 are each arranged between upper crosspieces 221 aligned in the X direction. Note that the upper crosspiece 221 is an example of a "fixing unit" according to the present invention.

[0035] The upper crosspiece 221 has a Y2-side end 221a that is connected (e.g., welded) to a wall 310 (described below) of the frame 300. The upper crosspiece 221 has a Y1-side end 221b that is connected (e.g., welded) to a wall 320 (described below) of the frame 300.

[0036] The upper crosspiece 221 includes a pair of sides 221c and a bottom 221d. The pair of sides 221c extend in the Z direction. The pair of sides 221c also extend in the Y direction. In other words, the pair of sides 221c extend orthogonally to the X direction. The pair of sides 221c are arranged opposite each other in the X direction.

[0037] The bottom 221d connects the lower ends of the two sides 221c ( Fig. 3). The bottom 221d extends in the X direction. The bottom 221d also extends in the Y direction. In other words, the bottom 221d extends orthogonally to the Z direction. Note that the pair of sides 221c of the upper crosspiece 221 is orthogonal to the bottom 221d.

[0038] A cavity extending in the Y direction is formed between the two sides 221c (on the Z1 side of the base 221d). In other words, the upper crosspiece 221 has a hollow shape.

[0039] The frame 300 surrounds the energy storage modules 100, viewed from the Z1 side. In other words, the frame 300 is formed in a rectangular frame shape, viewed from the Z1 side. The frame 300 extends in the Z direction. In other words, the frame 300 has a hollow rectangular cylindrical shape that extends in the Z direction.

[0040] The frame 300 includes a wall 310, a wall 320, a wall 330, and a wall 340. The wall 310 and the wall 320 extend orthogonally to the Y direction. The wall 330 and the wall 340 extend orthogonally to the X direction.

[0041] Wall 310 covers energy storage modules 100 and upper crosspieces 221 from the Y2 side. Wall 320 covers energy storage modules 100 and upper crosspieces 221 from the Y1 side. Wall 310 and wall 320 extend in the X direction over energy storage modules 100 and upper crosspieces 221, which are aligned in the X direction. Energy storage modules 100 and upper crosspieces 221 are arranged between wall 310 and wall 320 in the Y direction.

[0042] The wall 330 covers the energy storage module 100, which is closest to the X1 side of the energy storage modules 100, from the X1 side. The wall 330 is farther from the energy storage module 100 than the upper crosspiece 221, which is closest to the X1 side of the upper crosspieces 221.

[0043] The wall 340 covers the energy storage module 100, which is closest to the X2 side of the energy storage modules 100, from the X2 side. The wall 340 is farther from the energy storage module 100 than the upper crosspiece 221, which is closest to the X2 side of the upper crosspieces 221.

[0044] The energy storage modules 100 and the upper cross pieces 221 are arranged in the X direction between the wall 330 and the wall 340.

[0045] Wall 310 is connected to wall 330 and wall 340. Specifically, the X1-side end of wall 310 is connected to the Y2-side end of wall 330. The X2-side end of wall 310 is connected to the Y2-side end of wall 340.

[0046] Wall 320 is connected to wall 330 and wall 340. Specifically, the X1-side end of wall 320 is connected to the Y1-side end of wall 330. The X2-side end of wall 320 is connected to the Y1-side end of wall 340.

[0047] It should be noted that the walls 310 to 340 are connected to each other, for example by welding (e.g., arc welding).

[0048] The walls 310, 320, 330 and 340 each have an upper end surface 311, an upper end surface 321, an upper end surface 331 and an upper end surface 341. The upper end surface 311, the upper end surface 321, the upper end surface 331 and the upper end surface 341 are provided at the upper ends of the wall 310, the wall 320, the wall 330 and the wall 340, respectively.

[0049] The upper end surface 311, the upper end surface 321, the upper end surface 331 and the upper end surface 341 are provided with an outer circumference 222a ( Fig. 3) of the upper cover 220. The upper end surface 311, the upper end surface 321, the upper end surface 331, and the upper end surface 341 are joined to the outer periphery 222a by friction stir welding (FSW).

[0050] Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the energy storage device at a position in the Y direction where the connections 122 are arranged. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the top cover 220 covers the energy storage modules 100 from the Z2 side. Specifically, the top cover 220 includes a top plate 222 located on the Z1 side of the energy storage modules 100. The top plate 222 extends in the X direction above the energy storage modules 100. A portion (one end in the X direction) of the top plate 222 protrudes in the X direction toward the X1 side and toward the X2 side from the area where the energy storage modules 100 are arranged. The top plate 222 extends orthogonally to the Z direction.

[0051] The upper crosspieces 221 are arranged on the upper plate 222. In particular, the upper crosspieces 221 are fixed to the surface 222b of the upper plate 222 on the side of the energy storage module 100 (the Z2 side), for example, by welding.

[0052] The upper crosspieces 221 extend downward from the upper plate 222.

[0053] The upper crosspieces 221 include a pair of upper ends 221e that are attached to the surface 222b of the upper plate 222. One of the two upper ends 221e is connected to one of the two sides 221c. The other of the two upper ends 221e is connected to the other end of the two sides 221c. The side 221c and the upper end 221e that are connected to each other are orthogonal to each other. The pair of upper ends 221e extend in directions away from each other from the connection points with the side 221c. The pair of upper ends 221e also extend in the Y direction ( Fig. 4). In other words, the pair of upper ends 221e extend orthogonally to the Z direction. Note that the upper crosspiece 221 has a downwardly convex shape (a hat shape).

[0054] The two upper ends 221e are each formed integrally with the side 221c. The two sides 221c are each formed integrally with the bottom 221d. In other words, the upper crosspiece 221 is formed by folding a metal plate several times. This makes the rigidity of the upper crosspiece 221 greater than that of the upper plate 222.

[0055] In a conventional energy storage device, the energy storage modules are arranged (mounted) on the bottom cover, so that if the bottom cover is removed for repair purposes, the energy storage modules must also be removed.

[0056] Therefore, in the present embodiment, the energy storage modules 100 are fixed to the upper cover 220. This allows the energy storage modules 100 to be held by the upper cover 220 even when the lower cover 210 is removed.

[0057] In particular, the connections 122 of the module housing 120 are attached to the upper crosspiece 221. The connections 122 are attached from below to the bottom 221d of the upper crosspiece 221.

[0058] In particular, the bottom 221d of the upper crosspiece 221 and the connections 122 of the module housing 120 are fixed by screws 400.

[0059] The lower cover 210 includes a plurality of lower crosspieces 211 and a base plate 212. The base plate 212 is located on the Z2 side of the energy storage modules 100. The base plate 212 covers the energy storage modules 100 from the Z2 side. The base plate 212 extends in the X direction over the energy storage modules 100. A portion (one end in the X direction) of the base plate 212 protrudes in the X direction toward the X1 side and the X2 side from the area where the energy storage modules 100 are arranged.

[0060] Lower crosspieces 211 are arranged on the base plate 212. In particular, the lower crosspieces 211 are fixed by welding to a side of the surface 212a of the base plate 212 facing the energy storage module 100 (Z1 side). The lower crosspiece 211 extends from the base plate 212 to the Z1 side. It should be noted that the base plate 212 includes a bottom 212g and a protruding rib 212h ( Fig. 6) contains (see below), which is in Fig. 3, however, does not show a protruding rib 212h, but only the bottom 212g. Accordingly, the bottom plate 212 in the description with respect to Fig. 3 on the ground 212g.

[0061] The lower crosspiece 211 has a similar shape to the upper crosspiece 221. The lower crosspiece 211 has the shape of a vertically inverted upper crosspiece 221. In other words, the lower crosspiece 211 has an upwardly curved shape (a hat shape).

[0062] More specifically, the lower crosspiece 211 has a pair of sides 211c corresponding to the pair of sides 221c of the upper crosspiece 221. The lower crosspiece 211 has an upper surface 211d corresponding to the lower surface 221d of the upper crosspiece 221. The lower crosspiece 211 has a pair of lower ends 211e corresponding to the pair of upper ends 221e of the upper crosspiece 221.

[0063] In particular, the pair of sides 211c extends in the Z direction. The pair of sides 211c extends in the Y direction. In other words, the pair of sides 211c extends orthogonally to the X direction. The pair of sides 211c oppose each other in the X direction.

[0064] The upper surface 211d connects the upper ends of the two sides 211c ( Fig. 3). The upper surface 211d extends in the X direction. The upper surface 211d also extends in the Y direction. In other words, the upper surface 211d extends in a direction orthogonal to the Z direction. Note that in the lower crosspiece 211, the pair of sides 211c is orthogonal to the upper surface 211d.

[0065] A hollow space extending in the Y direction is formed between the pair of sides 211c (on the Z2 side of the upper surface 211d). In other words, the lower crosspiece 211 has a hollow shape.

[0066] The two lower ends 211e are attached to the surface 212a of the base plate 212. One of the two lower ends 211e is connected to one of the two sides 211c. The other of the two lower ends 211e is connected to the other of the two sides 211c. The side 211c and the lower end 211e, which are connected to each other, are orthogonal to each other. The pair of lower ends 211e extend in directions away from each other from the connection points with the side 211c.

[0067] The pair of lower ends 211e are each formed integrally with the side 211c. The two sides 211c are each formed integrally with the upper surface 211d. In other words, like the upper crosspiece 221, the lower crosspiece 211 is formed by folding a metal plate multiple times.

[0068] The lower crosspieces 211 overlap the upper crosspieces 221 in the Z direction. In other words, the lower crosspieces 211 are arranged below the four upper crosspieces 221.

[0069] In the area where the housing 200 overlaps with the plurality of energy storage modules 100 in the up-down direction, a distance D1 in the Z direction between the upper cover 220 (upper plate 222) and the energy storage modules 100 is smaller than a distance D2 in the Z direction between the lower cover 210 (bottom plate 212) and the energy storage modules 100.

[0070] Note that the energy storage module 100 is configured to exhaust smoke to the Z2 side. In other words, the space from which smoke is exhausted (a space in the energy storage module 100 on the Z2 side) is larger than an opposite space (a space in the energy storage module 100 on the Z1 side).

[0071] The upper crosspiece 221 has a length L1 in the Z direction. The lower crosspiece 211 has a length L2 in the Z direction. The length L2 is smaller than the length L1. This reduces the size of the lower cover 210, allowing the lower cover 210 to be easily replaced. Note that the length L2 can be greater than or equal to the length L1.

[0072] The energy storage device 1 includes a sealing element 500 and a sealing element 510. The sealing element 500 is provided separately from the sealing element 510. The sealing elements 500 and 510 may be, for example, urethane seals. The sealing elements 500 and 510 may have adhesive properties.

[0073] The sealing member 500 is arranged to seal a gap between a lower end 332 of the wall 330 and an X1-side portion 212c of the bottom plate 212 of the lower cover 210 near an outer periphery 212b. Note that, although not shown, the sealing member 500 extends in the Y direction along the wall 330.

[0074] The sealing member 510 is arranged to seal a gap between a lower end 342 of the wall 340 and an X2-side portion 212e of the bottom plate 212 of the lower cover 210 near an outer periphery 212d. Note that, although not shown, the sealing member 510 extends in the Y direction along the wall 340.

[0075] Sealing elements 500 and 510 enable the bottom plate 212 of the lower cover 210 to be attached (secured) to the walls 330 and 340. It should be noted that sealing elements may also be provided between the bottom plate 212 and the wall 310, as well as between the bottom plate 212 and the wall 320.

[0076] The energy storage device 1 includes a rivet 600 and a rivet 610. The rivet 600 secures the lower end 332 of the wall 330 and the outer periphery 212b of the bottom cover 210. In other words, the sealing member 500 is arranged near where the lower end 332 and the outer periphery 212b are secured by the rivet 600. The rivet 600 is arranged on the X1 side of the sealing member 500 (opposite the energy storage module 100 with respect to the sealing member 500). Note that multiple rivets 600 can be arranged in the Y direction along the wall 330.

[0077] The rivet 610 secures the lower end 342 of the wall 340 and the outer periphery 212d of the bottom cover 210. In other words, the sealing member 510 is located near where the lower end 342 and the outer periphery 212d are secured by the rivet 610. The rivet 610 is located on the X2 side of the sealing member 510 (opposite the energy storage module 100 with respect to the sealing member 510). Note that multiple rivets 610 may be located in the Y direction along the wall 340.

[0078] The bottom plate 212 of the lower cover 210 is attached to the wall 330 and the wall 340 on the Z2 side of the energy storage modules 100. In other words, the outer peripheries 212b and 212d of the bottom plate 212 are located on the Z2 side of the bottom 123 of the module housing 120. Note that the bottom 123 is the Z2-side end of the module housing 120.

[0079] The sections 212c and 212e of the base plate 212 are also located on the Z2 side of the base 123 of the module housing 120.

[0080] The outer peripheries 212b and 212d are arranged on the Z1 side of the sections 212c and 212e. In other words, a step is formed between the outer periphery 212b and the section 212c, and between the outer periphery 212d and the section 212e. Note that the outer peripheries 212b and 212d can be arranged at the same location as the sections 212c and 212e in the Z direction or on the Z2 side of the sections 212c and 212e in the Z direction.

[0081] The sub-plate 230 is arranged under the lower cover 210. The sub-plate 230 covers the bottom plate 212 of the lower cover 210 from below.

[0082] The sub-plate 230 is removably attached to the lower cover 210 from the Z2 side. Specifically, the sub-plate 230 is attached to the bottom plate 212 of the lower cover 210 with screws 700. The screws 700 attach the bottom plate 212 to an X1-side end 231 of the sub-plate 230 and to an X2-side end 232 of the sub-plate 230. Note that multiple screws 700 may be attached in the Y direction to each end 231 and end 232. Note that "removable attachment" refers to the attachment of objects in such a way that they can be removed nondestructively. "Permanent attachment," on the other hand, refers to the attachment (e.g., by welding) of objects in such a way that at least one of the objects will be destroyed when they are separated (e.g., the surface peels off).

[0083] It should be noted that "releasable fastening" refers to the fastening of objects in such a way that they can be removed without causing damage. For example, objects bonded together with an adhesive can be separated by breaking the bonded part. Thus, bonding corresponds to a "releasable fastening." Attaching objects using a fastener with bolts and nuts can separate the objects from each other by loosening the bolts and nuts. Thus, fastening with bolts and nuts corresponds to a "releasable fastening."

[0084] "Permanent attachment," on the other hand, refers to the attachment of objects in such a way that at least one of the objects will be destroyed if they are separated (e.g., the surface peels off) (e.g., attachment by welding). It should be noted that the welded part is continuous at the molecular level of the welded metal parts and is significantly different from the "removable attachment" mentioned above.

[0085] Screws 700 are provided on the X1 side of the lower crosspiece 211, which is closest to the X1 side of the lower crosspieces 211, and on the X2 side of the lower crosspiece 211, which is closest to the X2 side of the lower crosspieces 211.

[0086] The sub-plate part 230 includes a concave portion 233. The concave portion 233 is connected to the ends 231 and 232. The concave portion 233 is arranged between the ends 231 and 232 in the X direction. The concave portion 233 is shaped to protrude (recess) inward from the ends 231 and 232 toward the Z2 side.

[0087] In the area where housing 200 overlaps with energy storage module 100 in the Z direction, a distance D3 in the Z direction between the bottom plate 212 of the lower cover 210 and the concave portion 233 of the sub-plate 230 is less than a distance D2 in the Z direction between the bottom plate 212 and the energy storage module 100. For example, the distance D3 may be half the distance D2 or less.

[0088] Fig. 5 is an enlarged partial view of the energy storage device in the vicinity of the wall 330 of Fig. 3. It should be noted that the side of the wall 340 has the same configuration as in Fig. 5 and the description is therefore not repeated.

[0089] A through-hole 122a is formed in the connection 122, through which the screw 400 extends in the Z direction. A through-hole 221f is formed in the bottom 221d of the upper crosspiece 221, through which the screw 400 extends in the Z direction. The through-holes 122a and 221f overlap in the Z direction.

[0090] The screw 400 is attached to a nut 410 and a nut 420. The nut 410 is attached to a portion 401a of the screw 400 near a Z1-side end 401 of the screw 400. The nut 410 is attached (welded) from the Z1 side to the bottom 221d of the upper crosspiece 221. Note that a washer 411 is located between the nut 410 and the bottom 221d.

[0091] The nut 420 is attached to a portion 402a of the screw 400 near a Z2-side end 402 of the screw 400. The nut 420 is attached to the joint 122 from the Z2 side. Note that a washer 421 is located between the nut 420 and the joint 122.

[0092] A through-hole 231a is formed in the end 231 of the sub-plate 230, through which the screw 700 extends in the Z direction. A through-hole 212f is formed in the base plate 212 of the lower cover 210, through which the screw 700 extends in the Z direction. The through-holes 231a and 212f overlap in the Z direction.

[0093] The screw 700 is attached to a nut 710 and a nut 720. The nut 710 is attached to a portion 701a of the screw 700 near a Z1-side end 701. The nut 710 is attached (welded) to the surface 212a of the base plate 212. Note that a washer 711 is located between the nut 710 and the surface 212a.

[0094] The nut 720 is attached to a portion 702a of the screw 700 near the Z2-side end 702 of the screw 700. The nut 720 is attached to the end 231 of the sub-plate 230 from the Z2 side. Note that a washer 721 is located between the nut 720 and the end 231.

[0095] In the present embodiment, the lower cover 210 (bottom plate 212) has greater rigidity than the sub-plate 230. Specifically, a thickness t1 of the bottom plate 212 in the Z direction is greater than a thickness t2 of the sub-plate 230 in the Z direction. Note that the rigidity may include, for example, bending rigidity.

[0096] The lower cover 210 (bottom plate 212) has greater rigidity than the upper cover 220 (upper plate 222). Specifically, the thickness t1 of the bottom plate 212 in the Z direction is greater than the thickness t3 of the upper plate 222 in the Z direction.

[0097] Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the energy storage device at a position in the Y direction different from Fig. 3. In particular, Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the energy storage device at a position in the Y direction where no connections 122 are provided.

[0098] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the lower cover 210 is detachably attached to the upper cover 220. Specifically, the lower cover 210 is attached to the upper crosspiece 221 from the Z2 side.

[0099] The energy storage device 1 includes screws 800. The screws 800 fasten the bottom plate 212 of the lower cover 210 and the upper crosspiece 221 (bottom 221d). In other words, the bottom plate 212 is indirectly fastened to the upper plate 222 with screws 800. Note that the screw 800 is an example of a "fastening member" according to the present invention.

[0100] The lower cover 210 is provided with a collar element 213. The collar element 213 extends in the Z direction to guide the screw 800 from the bottom plate 212 of the lower cover 210 to the upper crosspiece 221. The collar element 213 is fixed to the bottom plate 212 (surface 212a) from the Z1 side, for example, by welding.

[0101] The bottom plate 212 of the lower cover 210 includes a bottom 212g and a protruding rib 212h. The screw 800 secures the protruding rib 212h and the upper crosspiece 221. Note that the bottom 212g is an example of a "cover body" according to the present invention.

[0102] The protruding rib 212h is shaped to recede upward from the bottom 212g. In other words, a step is formed between the protruding rib 212h and the bottom 212g. In the Fig. 6, the bottom 212g is arranged between the projecting ribs 212h in the X direction.

[0103] It should be noted that, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the connections 122 of the energy storage module 100 and the protruding ribs 212h of the lower cover 210 are arranged alternately in the Y direction. A plurality of protruding ribs 212h are aligned in the Y direction. The protruding ribs 212h are arranged at equal intervals in the Y direction on the Z2 side of the lower crosspiece 211.

[0104] Fig. Figure 8 is an enlarged partial view of the energy storage device near the wall 330 of Fig. 6. It should be noted that the side of the wall 340 has the same configuration as that shown in Fig. 8 and the description is therefore not repeated.

[0105] In the bottom 221d of the upper crosspiece 221, a through hole 221g is formed through which the screw 800 runs in the Z direction.

[0106] In the protruding rib 212h of the lower cover 210, a through hole 212i is formed through which the screw 800 extends in the Z direction.

[0107] In the upper surface 211d of the lower crosspiece 211, a through hole 211f is formed through which the screw 800 extends in the Z direction.

[0108] The through-holes 221g, 212i, and 211f overlap in the Z direction. The screw 800 passes through the through-holes 221g, 212i, and 211f, extending from the Z2 side of the protruding rib 212h to the Z1 side of the bottom 221d of the upper crosspiece 221.

[0109] The screw 800 is fastened to a nut 810 and a nut 820. The nut 810 is fastened to a portion 801a of the screw 800 near a Z1-side end 801 of the screw 800. The nut 810 is fixed (welded) to the bottom 221d of the upper crosspiece 221 from the Z1 side. Note that a washer 811 is located between the nut 810 and the bottom 221d. Note that the nut 820 is an example of a "fastening member" according to the present invention.

[0110] The nut 820 is fastened to a portion 802a of the bolt 800 near a Z2-side end 802 of the bolt 800. The nut 820 is fastened to the protruding rib 212h from the Z2 side. Note that a washer 821 is located between the nut 820 and the protruding rib 212h. The washer 821 is an example of a "fastening element" according to the present invention.

[0111] It should be noted that the nut 820 and the washer 821 are housed in a space formed between the bottom plate 212 of the lower cover 210 and the sub-plate 230.

[0112] An annular sealing element 830 (e.g., made of rubber, etc.) is arranged between the washer 821 and the protruding rib 212h. The sealing element 830 is sandwiched between the washer 821 and the protruding rib 212h in the Z direction. The screw 800 extends through the sealing element 830.

[0113] The end 802 of the screw 800 is located at the same position in the Z direction as a bottom surface 212j of the bottom 212g of the lower cover 210. Note that in the present embodiment, the end 802 of the screw 800 is located at the same position in the Z direction as the bottom surface (without reference numeral) of the nut 820.

[0114] The collar element 213 has a through-hole 213a through which the screw 800 passes in the Z direction. The collar element 213 extends in the Z direction. For example, the collar element 213 has a cylindrical shape. Note that the shape of the collar element 213 may also be other than cylindrical (e.g., a rectangular cylindrical shape). The collar element 213 is made of a metal such as aluminum. Note that the collar element 213 may be made of, for example, a resin.

[0115] A lower end 213b of the collar member 213 is in contact with the protruding rib 212h of the lower cover 210. An upper end 213c of the collar member 213 is in contact with the bottom 221d of the upper crosspiece 221. The collar member 213 extends from the protruding rib 212h of the lower cover 210 to the bottom 221d of the upper crosspiece 221 and passes through the through-hole 211f in the upper surface 211d of the lower crosspiece 211.

[0116] The collar element 213 is arranged to guide (protect) the screw 800. This can prevent the screw 800 and the energy storage module 100 from coming into contact with each other due to vibration.

[0117] Furthermore, since the lower end 213b of the collar member 213 is in contact with the protruding rib 212h of the lower cover 210, a force acting upon the protruding rib 212h from below can be distributed between the lower crosspiece 211 and the collar member 213. This can reduce the stress exerted on a contact surface between the lower crosspiece 211 and the protruding rib 212h compared to the lower cover 210 without the collar member 213. For example, this can prevent the portion of the protruding rib 212h below the lower crosspiece 211 from receding upward (being pushed).

[0118] The upper surface 211d of the lower crosspiece 211 and an outer periphery 213d of the collar member 213 are joined together, for example, by arc welding. Specifically, a Z1 side surface 211g of the upper surface 211d of the lower crosspiece 211 and an outer periphery 213d of the collar member 213 are welded. A welded portion 211h, where the surface 211g and the outer periphery 213d are welded, may be formed in an annular shape surrounding the collar member 213 when viewed from the Z1 side. <Verfahren zum Entfernen der unteren Abdeckung>

[0119] Next, with reference to Fig. 9 describes an example of a method for removing the lower cover 210. In step S1, the screws 700 that fasten the sub-plate 230 and the lower cover 210 (bottom plate 212) are removed. In step S2, the sub-plate 230 is removed (disassembled) from the lower cover 210. In step S3, the rivets 600 and 610 that fasten the frame 300 and the lower cover 210 are removed. In step S4, the sealing members 500 and 510 are cut off with a cutting tool or the like. In step S5, the screws 800 that fasten the upper crosspiece 221 and the lower cover 210 (bottom plate 212) are removed. In step S6, the lower cover 210 is removed (disassembled) from the upper cover 220 (upper crosspiece 221). This removes the lower cover 210 while the energy storage module 100 is held by the upper cover 220.

[0120] Fig. 10 is a diagram illustrating step S4 of Fig. 9 shows. In Fig. 10, the sealing elements 500 and 510 are each divided in two in the up-down direction by a cutting tool 900.

[0121] Fig. 11 is a diagram illustrating step S5 of Fig. 9 shows. In this step, the screws 800 are unscrewed from below from the collar elements 213.

[0122] Fig. 12 is a diagram illustrating step S6 of Fig. 9. In this step, the lower cover 210 (base plate 212, lower crosspiece 211) is moved downward.

[0123] As described above, in the present embodiment, the energy storage module 100 is fixed to the upper cover 220, and the lower cover 210 is detachably fixed to the upper cover 220. This allows the energy storage module 100 to be held by the upper cover 220, preventing the energy storage module 100 from being removed from the vehicle 10 when the lower cover 210 is removed from the upper cover 220. This allows the lower cover 210 to be easily removed. Furthermore, this allows the lower cover 210 to be repaired or replaced without removing the energy storage module 100 from the vehicle 10.

[0124] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, in the area where the casing 200 overlaps with the energy storage module 100 in the Z direction, the distance D3 in the Z direction between the lower cover 210 and the split plate 230 is smaller than the distance D2 in the Z direction between the lower cover 210 and the energy storage module 100. This can easily enable an increased space between the lower cover 210 and the energy storage module 100, so that the space for discharging smoke from the energy storage module 100 and the space for absorbing the impact from below can be shared. Therefore, the vehicle 10 can have improved space efficiency compared to providing these two spaces separately.

[0125] In the above embodiment, the positions of the Y-direction links 122 on the 121a side of the upper crosspiece 221 and the Y-direction links 122 on the 121b side of the upper crosspiece 221 are the same. However, the present invention is not limited to this. These positions may differ from each other.

[0126] In the example of Fig. 13, the energy storage device 2 comprises a plurality of energy storage modules 101. The energy storage modules 101 each comprise a cell housing 125 that accommodates energy storage cells 110. The cell housing 125 has a housing body 126 and eight connections 122. Four of the eight connections 122 protrude from the X1 side 126a of the housing body 126 to the X1 side. The remaining four of the eight connections 122 protrude from the X2 side 126b of the housing body 126 to the X2 side.

[0127] The four connections 122 on page 126a and the four connections 122 on page 126b are arranged at different locations (coordinates) in the Y direction. In other words, the four connections 122 on page 126a are not arranged at the same positions in the Y direction as the four connections 122 on page 126b.

[0128] In this configuration, unlike the above embodiments, the energy storage modules 101 have the same orientation in the Y direction. This prevents contact between the connections 122 between energy storage modules 101 that are adjacent to each other in the X direction.

[0129] In the above embodiment, the lower cover 210 (bottom plate 212) is fixed to the upper cover 220 (upper cross member 221) with screws 800. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The lower cover may be fixed to the upper cover with adhesives. For example, in a configuration where the outer periphery of the bottom plate of the lower cover and the outer periphery of the upper plate of the upper cover are arranged adjacent to each other in the Z direction, the outer peripheries may be bonded together with adhesives. Alternatively, the upper cross member may be formed to extend to the bottom of the lower cover plate, and the upper cross member and the bottom plate may be bonded together with adhesives. Alternatively, the bottom plate 212 of the lower cover 210 and the upper plate 222 of the upper cover 220 may be fixed with screws.

[0130] In the above embodiment, the energy storage module 100 (connections 122) and the top cover 220 (upper crosspiece 221) are fastened by screws 400. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The connections 122 may be attached to the upper crosspiece 221 with adhesives. Furthermore, energy storage modules 100 may be attached to the top plate 222 of the top cover 220. In this case, the top cover may be provided without the upper crosspiece 221.

[0131] In the above embodiment, the energy storage device 1 is provided with a sub-plate 230. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. The energy storage device may be provided without a sub-plate 230. In this case, a coating may be applied to the underside of the bottom plate 212 of the lower cover 210.

[0132] In the above embodiment, the thickness t1 of the lower cover 210 (bottom plate 212) is greater than the thickness t2 of the split plate 230, and the lower cover 210 (bottom plate 212) thus has higher rigidity than the split plate 230. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The lower cover may be formed from a material having higher rigidity than the split plate. Furthermore, beads may be formed on the lower cover to impart rigidity to the lower cover higher than the split plate. Furthermore, the rigidity of the lower cover and the rigidity of the upper cover may be the same as these variations.

[0133] In the above embodiment, the sub-plate 230 is detachably attached to the bottom cover 210. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The sub-plate 230 may be non-detachably attached to the bottom cover 210, for example, by welding.

[0134] In the above embodiment, the upper crosspiece 221 extends downward from the upper plate 222. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The upper crosspiece does not necessarily have to extend downward from the upper plate 222. For example, the lower end of the upper crosspiece may be located above the energy storage module.

[0135] The lower cover 210 (bottom plate 212) and the frame 300 (wall 330 and wall 340) are mounted below the energy storage modules 100. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. The lower cover 210 (bottom plate 212) and the frame 300 (wall 330 and wall 340) can be mounted at the same position as or above the bottom 123 of the energy storage module 100 in the Z direction.

[0136] In the above embodiment, the ends 802 of the screw 800 are arranged at the same position in the Z direction as the bottom 212j ( Fig. 8) of the bottom 212g of the lower cover 210. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 14, the ends 802 may be located above a bottom surface 212l of a base 212k. Note that the base 212k and bottom surface 212l are examples of a "cover body" and a "bottom surface," respectively, according to the present invention.

[0137] In the above embodiment, a plurality of projecting ribs 212h are aligned in the Y direction ( Fig. 7). However, the present invention is not limited thereto. A single protruding rib may extend in the Y direction below the lower crosspiece 211. For example, the protruding ribs may extend from the Y1-side end of the lower crosspiece 211 to the Y2-side end of the lower crosspiece 211 in the Y direction.

[0138] In the above embodiment, the energy storage device 1 is arranged on the underbody 11a of the vehicle 10. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. The energy storage device 1 may be arranged on the floor of electrical equipment (e.g., a stationary energy storage device) that is not part of the vehicle.

[0139] In the above embodiment, the bottom cover 210 (bottom plate 212) and the frame 300 (the walls 330 and 340) are secured by the sealing member 500 (510) and the rivet 600 (610). However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the sealing members may not have adhesion properties, and the bottom cover 210 and the frame 300 may be secured only with fasteners. In this case, the sealing members may be provided near (adjacent to) the fasteners.

[0140] In the above embodiment, the frame 300 consists of four walls (310, 320, 330, and 340). However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the frame may be formed from a single plate-like member having a frame shape. Furthermore, two L-shaped plate-like members may be combined.

[0141] It should be noted that the above embodiment and various variants thereof can be combined. (Reference example)

[0142] The above embodiment and its various variants illustrate that the lower cover is removably attached to the upper cover. In contrast, it is conceivable that the lower cover is removably attached to the energy storage module. Even in this case, the lower cover can be removed without removing the energy storage modules.

[0143] While the embodiment and its variations according to the present invention have been described above, the embodiment disclosed herein should be considered in all aspects as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims. All changes that come within the spirit and range of equivalence of the appended claims are intended to be embraced within their scope. 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 2024-026639

[0001] JP 2023 - 046 945 A

[0003]

Claims

[1] Energy storage device (1, 2), comprising: an energy storage module (100, 101) having a plurality of energy storage cells (110); and a housing (200) which accommodates the energy storage module, wherein the housing includes: a first cover (220) covering the energy storage module from above; and a second cover (210) covering the energy storage module from below, wherein the energy storage module is attached to the first cover and the second cover is removably attached to the first cover. [2] The energy storage device according to claim 1, further comprising: a third cover (230) under the second cover, wherein the second cover has a higher rigidity than the third cover. [3] The energy storage device according to claim 2, wherein the third cover is detachably attached to the second cover from below. [4] The energy storage device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein in a region where the housing overlaps the energy storage module in an up-down direction, a distance (D3) in the up-down direction between the second cover and the third cover is smaller than a distance (D2) in the up-down direction between the second cover and the energy storage module. [5] Energy storage device according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first cover comprises: a top plate (222) above the energy storage module; and a fixing unit (221) on the top plate, wherein the energy storage module is fixed to the fixing unit, and the second cover is fixed to the fixing unit from below. [6] The energy storage device according to claim 5, wherein the fixing unit extends downwardly from the top plate. [7] Energy storage device according to claim 5, further comprising: a frame element (300) surrounding the fastening unit and the energy storage module; and a sealing element (500, 510) sealing between the frame element and the second cover, wherein the first cover and the second cover are attached to the frame member and the sealing element is arranged in an environment in which the second cover is attached to the frame element. [8] The energy storage device according to claim 7, wherein the second cover is attached to the frame member below the energy storage module. [9] Energy storage device according to claim 5, further comprising: a fastening element (800, 820, 821) which fastens the second cover and the fastening unit, wherein the second cover includes: a cover body (212k); and a projecting rib (212h) which recedes upwards from the cover body, wherein the fastener secures the protruding rib and the fastening unit. [10] The energy storage device according to claim 9, wherein the fixing member is arranged such that a lower end (802) is located at the same position as or above a bottom surface (212j, 212l) of the cover body in the up-down direction.

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