Battery pack and mounting structure of battery pack

Abstract

To provide a battery pack that can be efficiently cooled and mounted on a vehicle.SOLUTION: A battery pack 10 mounted on a vehicle 2 includes: battery cells 20; and a housing 11 having a polygonal columnar shape or a columnar shape and accommodating the battery cells 20. The housing 11 includes: a plurality of sections 13 divided by a plurality of wall surfaces 12 extending radially from a center of an inner side of the housing 11; and support parts 14 supported respectively by vehicle-side attachment members 50. The battery cells 20 are disposed at positions corresponding to the support parts 14 among the plurality of sections 13. The vehicle-side attachment members 50 are suspended below the vehicle 2, and an accommodation space 3 is formed between the vehicle-side attachment members 50 and the vehicle 2. The vehicle-side attachment member 50 has a substantially U-shaped member 50, and a groove part 14a of the support part 14 is engageable with the substantially U-shaped member 50.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery pack and a mounting structure of the battery pack.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, even agricultural implements have been electrified. For example, in drones used for mowing grass or agricultural work, a rechargeable small battery pack is used for driving. Such rechargeable agricultural implements are, for example, loaded on automobiles or the like and transported to the place of use for use. However, since rechargeable agricultural implements and the like have a small battery capacity of the battery pack, in order to perform long-time work, it is necessary to separately prepare a replacement battery pack.

[0003] On the other hand, in the case of electric (power supply type) agricultural implements, since electricity is supplied by connecting to an outlet, work at the destination is not assumed. When using such an electric agricultural implement at the destination, it is necessary to always prepare a portable power source or the like, which is troublesome. In addition to agricultural implements and the like, space for mounting a portable power source or the like on a vehicle is also required. Therefore, there is a demand for a battery pack that can be used at the destination and can withstand long-time use, and an efficient mounting of the battery pack on a vehicle.

[0004] Here, in electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, etc., a power supply device for vehicle drive is housed in the storage space for a spare tire provided inside the vehicle (for example, Patent Document 1). Therefore, mounting of a battery pack using the spare tire storage space inside the vehicle is conceivable.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] However, the prior art described in Patent Document 1 above requires a spare tire storage space inside the vehicle, making it difficult to secure the interior space of the vehicle. Further, in light trucks and the like, since there is no spare tire storage space in the cargo compartment, there is also a problem that the prior art described in Patent Document 1 cannot be used. In addition, since the prior art described in Patent Document 1 utilizes the spare tire storage space inside the vehicle, there is also a concern that the cooling of the battery pack will be insufficient.

[0007] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a battery pack that can perform efficient cooling and can be efficiently mounted on a vehicle, and a mounting structure for the battery pack.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0008] (1) The battery pack of the present invention provided to solve the above-described problems is a battery pack mounted on a vehicle, comprising at least one battery cell and a polygonal columnar or cylindrical housing that houses the battery cell, the housing comprising a plurality of compartments divided by a plurality of wall surfaces extending radially from the center on the inner side of the housing, and a support portion supported by a vehicle-side attachment member provided on the vehicle, the battery cell being disposed at a position corresponding to the support portion among the plurality of compartments.

[0009] The above-described battery pack includes a plurality of compartments divided by a plurality of wall surfaces extending radially from the center on the inner side of the housing, and battery cells are arranged in the plurality of compartments. Therefore, in the above-described battery pack, for example, the battery cells are arranged in compartments having a truss structure formed by a plurality of wall surfaces or a shape approximating the truss structure. Thereby, the above-described battery pack can maintain the strength of the battery cells, so that damage to the battery pack when it is collided can be suppressed. Further, in the above-described battery pack, the support portion of the housing is supported by a vehicle-side attachment member provided on the vehicle, and the battery cells are arranged at positions corresponding to the support portion among the plurality of compartments. Therefore, heat generated by the battery cells can be exhausted through the vehicle-side attachment member. That is, the above-described battery pack can efficiently cool the battery cells. Here, the vehicle-side attachment member is preferably provided outside the passenger compartment of the vehicle. Thereby, the above-described battery pack can be expected to be cooled by outside air.

[0010] (2) The battery pack of the present invention described above is characterized in that the housing is polygonal columnar, and the plurality of wall surfaces are formed to extend radially from the center on the inner side of the housing toward the side ridges.

[0011] With the above-described configuration, the battery pack forms a truss structure by a plurality of wall surfaces. Thereby, the above-described battery pack can maintain the strength of the battery cells, so that damage to the battery pack when it is collided can be suppressed. Here, the polygonal columnar shape is preferably a regular polygonal columnar shape. Thereby, in the above-described battery pack, for example, a well-balanced accommodation in a circular accommodation space can be expected.

[0012] (3) The battery pack of the present invention described above is characterized in that the vehicle-side attachment member is suspended and arranged on the lower side of the vehicle, an accommodation space is formed between the vehicle-side attachment member and the vehicle, and the housing can be accommodated in the accommodation space.

[0013] By adopting such a configuration, the above-described battery pack can be efficiently accommodated by utilizing the space outside the vehicle cabin. Further, the above-described battery pack can be accommodated even in a vehicle without an accommodation space in the vehicle cabin, such as a light truck. Moreover, since the above-described battery pack can be efficiently cooled by outside air, the durability of the battery cells can be improved and stable power supply can be achieved.

[0014] (4) In the battery pack of the present invention described above, it is preferable that the vehicle-side attachment member is a substantially U-shaped member, and the support portion has a groove portion engageable with the substantially U-shaped member as the housing is accommodated in the accommodation space.

[0015] By adopting such a configuration, the above-described battery pack can, for example, efficiently form an accommodation space above the vehicle-side attachment member (substantially U-shaped member). Further, as the housing is accommodated in the accommodation space of the housing, the support portion engages with the groove portion in the vehicle-side attachment portion, so that the housing can be securely fixed to the vehicle-side attachment member. Moreover, since the heat generated by the battery cells in the above-described battery pack can be exhausted to the vehicle-side attachment member through the groove portion, the battery cells can be efficiently cooled. Here, the accommodation space may be formed, for example, by intersecting a pair of substantially U-shaped members so as to be orthogonal to each other. Thereby, the above-described battery pack can be stably supported by a minimum number of vehicle-side attachment members.

[0016] (5) In the battery pack of the present invention described above, the vehicle-side attachment member is suspended and disposed on the lower surface side of the vehicle at the rear end side of the vehicle, and has an accommodation space for accommodating the housing on the upper side, and a service plug for interrupting at least a part of the voltage in the plurality of battery cells is provided on the side surface or the circumferential surface of the housing, and it is preferable that the housing is accommodated in the accommodation space so that the service plug faces the rear end side of the vehicle.

[0017] With such a configuration, the above-described battery pack can have a structure in which the service plug is likely to become detached when the vehicle is rear-ended. As a result, when the vehicle is rear-ended, the service plug can be detached, thereby dropping or interrupting the voltage.

[0018] (6) The battery pack of the present invention described above is preferably characterized in that the service plug is inclined and arranged so as to face obliquely downward with respect to a side surface or a circumferential surface of the housing.

[0019] With such a configuration, the above-described battery pack can have a structure in which the service plug is even more likely to become detached when the vehicle is rear-ended. Therefore, when the vehicle is rear-ended, the service plug can be more reliably detached, and the voltage can be more reliably dropped or interrupted.

[0020] (7) The battery pack of the present invention described above is preferably characterized in that a heat conductive member is arranged on the lower surface side of the battery cell arranged at a position corresponding to the support portion so as to at least partially overlap the support portion.

[0021] With such a configuration, the heat generated by the battery cell can be more reliably conducted to the support portion through the heat conductive member. As a result, the above-described battery pack can more reliably cool the battery cell, so that an improvement in durability can be expected.

[0022] (8) The battery pack of the present invention described above is preferably characterized in that the housing is formed in an octagonal prism shape, and the outer shapes of the plurality of compartments are formed in a triangular prism shape.

[0023] By adopting such a configuration, the battery pack described above can approximate the housing to a more circular shape. As a result, the battery pack described above can efficiently utilize, for example, a circular space and increase the density of battery cells. Therefore, an improvement in battery capacity can be expected for the battery pack described above. In addition, in the battery pack described above, since a plurality of compartments are formed in a triangular prism shape, a truss structure is formed, so that the strength of the battery cells and the housing can be increased.

[0024] (9) The mounting structure of the battery pack of the present invention described above is characterized in that the accommodation space can accommodate the spare tire in the vehicle.

[0025] By adopting such a configuration, the mounting structure of the battery pack described above can mount (accommodate) the battery pack by effectively using the accommodation space for the spare tire. Therefore, for the mounting structure of the battery pack described above, there is no need to separately provide a vehicle-side mounting member, so cost reduction can be expected.

[0026] (10) The mounting structure of the battery pack of the present invention described above is characterized in that the vehicle is provided with a back door, the vehicle-side mounting member is disposed on the outer surface of the back door, an accommodation space is formed on the outer surface of the back door, and the housing can be accommodated in the accommodation space.

[0027] By adopting such a configuration, the mounting structure of the battery pack described above can be mounted on the back door. Here, it is preferable that the accommodation space in the mounting structure of the battery pack described above is for mounting a spare tire. As a result, the mounting structure of the battery pack described above can efficiently mount (accommodate) the battery pack even in a vehicle that attaches a spare tire to the back door, such as an SUV (Sports Utility Vehicle).

Advantages of the Invention

[0028] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a battery pack that can perform cooling efficiently and can be mounted on a vehicle efficiently, and a mounting structure for the battery pack.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0029]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0030] Hereinafter, a battery pack 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that each drawing is schematically shown for easy understanding, and it should be noted that it may be different from the actual shape, size, and arrangement of components. Also, note that hatching in the cross section may be omitted.

[0031] As shown in FIGS. 3(a) and 3(b), the battery pack 10 is to be mounted on the vehicle 2. Specifically, the battery pack 10 is to be housed (mounted) in a spare tire storage space 3 (also referred to as storage space 3) provided on the lower surface of the rear end side of the vehicle 2, in place of a spare tire (not shown). Hereinafter, first, details of the vehicle 2 that forms part of the mounting structure 1 (also referred to as the battery pack mounting structure 1) of the battery pack 10 of the present invention will be described. In this embodiment, the case where a light truck is used as the vehicle 2 will be described as an example.

[0032] The vehicle 2 is provided with a vehicle-side mounting member 50. The vehicle-side mounting member 50 is suspended and disposed on the lower side (lower surface side) of the vehicle 2 at the rear end side of the vehicle 2. The vehicle-side mounting member 50 is formed of a rod-shaped member made of a material such as metal. Further, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3(a), the vehicle-side mounting member 50 is formed of a substantially U-shaped member (also referred to as the substantially U-shaped member 50) obtained by bending the rod-shaped member into a substantially U shape. The vehicle-side mounting member 50 can be appropriately attached to the lower surface side of the vehicle 2 with bolts or the like (not shown) so as to be concave. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3(b), a pair of vehicle-side mounting members 50 are arranged so as to intersect each other (for example, be orthogonal), whereby a storage space 3 is formed between the vehicle-side mounting member 50 and the vehicle 2.

[0033] The storage space 3 has a predetermined thickness in the height direction so as to be able to accommodate a spare tire (not shown), and is formed in a size having an outer diameter capable of accommodating the spare tire in a plan view. In this embodiment, the storage space 3 is formed in a size that can accommodate the housing 11 of the battery pack 10 described later.

[0034] The above are the details of the battery pack mounting structure 1 on the vehicle 2 side. Next, details of the battery pack 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention and the battery pack mounting structure 1 on the battery pack 10 side will be described.

[0035] As shown in FIGS. 1(a) to 1(c), the battery pack 10 is mounted on the vehicle 2 described above and includes at least one battery cell 20 and a housing 11. In addition to the above, the battery pack 10 includes a service plug 30, a PN connector 31, a charging connector 32, a relay 33, a DC / AC converter 34, and a BMS 35 (battery management system 35), etc.

[0036] In this embodiment, the battery cell 20 is formed as a cylindrical (columnar) storage battery (for example, a lithium-ion battery, a nickel-metal hydride battery, etc.). The battery cell 20 forms a single cell, and a battery is formed by assembling a plurality of battery cells 20. The battery cell 20 is housed in a partition 13 of the housing 11 described later.

[0037] The housing 11 can be formed in a polygonal prism shape or a cylindrical shape (polygonal or circular in plan view), but in this embodiment, it is formed in a regular octagonal prism shape. The housing 11 can accommodate one or a plurality of battery cells 20. The housing 11 includes a plurality of partitions 13 (also referred to as regions 13) divided (partitioned) by a plurality of wall surfaces 12 extending radially from the center on the inner side of the housing 11, a support portion 14 supported by a vehicle-side mounting member 50, etc.

[0038] When the housing 11 is formed in a polygonal prism shape as in this embodiment, the plurality of wall surfaces 12 are formed so as to extend radially from the center on the inner side of the housing 11 toward the side ridge 11a. That is, in this embodiment, since the housing 11 is formed in an octagonal prism shape, eight wall surfaces 12 are formed so as to extend radially from the center on the inner side of the housing 11 toward the side ridge 11a. As a result, eight partitions 13 are formed in the housing 11. Further, the partitions 13 form a truss structure by each having an outer shape formed in a triangular prism shape.

[0039] As shown in FIGS. 1(a) and 1(c), the support portion 14 is provided on the lower surface side of the housing 11. The support portion 14 is configured to face the vehicle-side attachment member 50 (substantially U-shaped member 50) when the housing 11 is accommodated in the accommodation space 3. The support portion 14 has a groove portion 14a that can be engaged with the vehicle-side attachment member 50 as the housing 11 is accommodated in the accommodation space 3.

[0040] The groove portion 14a is formed in a cross shape along a pair of vehicle-side attachment members 50 arranged in a crossing manner. As shown in FIG. 1(c), the groove portion 14a has a shape along the vehicle-side attachment member 50 (in this embodiment, the cross section is formed in an arc shape). The groove portion 14a is detachably supported by the vehicle-side attachment member 50 by engaging with the vehicle-side attachment member 50. Note that the groove portion 14a may be fixed to the vehicle-side attachment member 50 with brackets, bolts, or the like as necessary.

[0041] Here, as shown in FIG. 1(a), the battery cell 20 is disposed at a position corresponding to the support portion 14 (groove portion 14a) among the plurality of compartments 13. Thereby, the heat generated by the battery cell 20 is conducted to the vehicle-side attachment member 50 via the support portion 14. That is, the battery cell 20 is cooled by the support portion 14 and the vehicle-side attachment member 50. Thus, the battery pack mounting structure 1 is a structure for mounting the battery pack 10 in the accommodation space 3 via the support portion 14 of the housing 11.

[0042] Further, heat conduction members 40 are provided on the upper and lower surfaces of the housing 11. In this embodiment, the heat conduction member 40 is formed of, for example, a rubber sheet having both heat conduction and vibration damping properties. The heat conduction member 40 is laid so as to be located at least on the lower surface side of the battery cell 20. That is, the heat conduction member 40 is arranged such that at least a part thereof overlaps the support portion 14 on the lower surface side of the battery cell 20 arranged at a position corresponding to the support portion 14. Thereby, the heat conduction member 40 can enhance the cooling efficiency of the battery cell 20 and suppress the transmission of the vibration of the vehicle 2 to the battery pack 10. Note that the heat conduction member 40 may have only one of heat conductivity and shock absorbency. Further, the heat conduction member 40 can be provided at an appropriate location of the housing 11.

[0043] The service plug 30 is for blocking at least a part of the voltages in the plurality of battery cells 20. Specifically, the service plug 30 is provided in the middle of a circuit (not shown) connecting the plurality of battery cells 20, and when the service plug 30 is removed (detached) from a power outlet (not shown), a part or all of the circuit is blocked. Thereby, a part or all of the voltage applied to the circuit is blocked, and the voltage of the entire circuit drops or is blocked.

[0044] The service plug 30 is provided on the side surface in the housing 11 (the circumferential surface when the housing 11 is formed in a cylindrical shape). In the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 3(a) and 3(b), in a state where the housing 11 is accommodated in the accommodation space 3, the service plug 30 is provided so as to face the rear end side of the vehicle 2. Further, as shown in FIG. 2(b), the service plug 30 is inclined and arranged so as to face the diagonally lower side with respect to the side surface in the housing 11 (the circumferential surface when the housing 11 is formed in a cylindrical shape). Therefore, when the vehicle 2 is rear-ended, the service plug 30 is configured to easily come off (fall off) from the connection socket (not shown). That is, when the vehicle 2 is rear-ended, due to the contact between the service plug 30 and other members (including the colliding vehicle), the service plug 30 falls off from the connection socket so as to fall along the inclination direction.

[0045] The PN connector 31 is provided on the side surface in the housing 11 (the circumferential surface when the housing 11 is formed in a cylindrical shape). In the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 3(a) and 3(b), in a state where the housing 11 is accommodated in the accommodation space 3, the PN connector 31 is provided so as to face the side of the vehicle 2. In the present embodiment, the PN connector 31 is provided as a socket for an AC100V power supply. Therefore, for example, in a drone (not shown) in which power supply is performed by wire, by connecting a power supply wire to the PN connector 31, the drone is driven. Also, by connecting, for example, a power supply line of an electric lawn mower to the PN connector 31, the lawn mower is driven. Note that by providing a power supply socket for a wired type drone, it is also possible to drive agricultural implements such as an electric lawn mower via the drone. A plurality of PN connectors 31 may be provided.

[0046] The charging connector 32 is provided for charging the battery cells 20 in the battery pack 10. In the present embodiment, the charging connector 32 is provided on the side surface of the housing 11 adjacent to the PN connector 31. By connecting a power supply source to the charging connector 32, the battery cells 20 are charged. Here, as the power supply source, for example, an AC 100V power supply, a driving battery of the vehicle 2 (when the vehicle 2 is a hybrid vehicle or an electric vehicle), a generator (including the vehicle 2), etc. can be used. A plurality of charging connectors 32 may be provided.

[0047] In addition to the above, the battery pack 10 includes a plurality of relays 33, a DC / AC converter 34, a BMS 35 (battery management system 35), etc., and DC / AC conversion, charge control, output control, etc. are performed by these. The plurality of relays 33, the DC / AC converter 34, and the BMS 35 are respectively housed in a partition 13 different from the battery cells 20.

[0048] The above is one embodiment of the battery pack 10 and the battery pack mounting structure 1 of the present invention. Next, the effects achieved by the battery pack 10 and the battery pack mounting structure 1 of the present invention will be described below.

[0049] The battery pack 10 described above has the following characteristic configurations (A) to (I). Therefore, the battery pack 10 of the present invention can achieve unique effects that cannot be achieved by the following prior art.

[0050] (A) The battery pack 10 of the present embodiment is a battery pack 10 mounted on the vehicle 2, and includes at least one battery cell 20 and a polygonal columnar or cylindrical housing 11 that houses the battery cell 20. The housing 11 includes a plurality of partitions 13 divided by a plurality of wall surfaces 12 extending radially from the center on the inner side of the housing 11, and a support portion 14 supported by a vehicle-side attachment member 50 provided on the vehicle 2. The battery cell 20 is arranged at a position corresponding to the support portion 14 among the plurality of partitions 13.

[0051] The above-described battery pack 10 includes a plurality of compartments 13 divided by a plurality of wall surfaces 12 that radially extend from the center of the inner side of the housing 11, and battery cells 20 are arranged in the plurality of compartments 13. Therefore, in the above-described battery pack 10, for example, the battery cells 20 are arranged in compartments 13 having a truss structure formed by the plurality of wall surfaces 12 or a shape approximating the truss structure. Thereby, in the above-described battery pack 10, the strength of the battery cells 20 can be maintained, so that damage to the battery pack 10 when collided can be suppressed. Further, in the above-described battery pack 10, the support portion 14 of the housing 11 is supported by a vehicle-side attachment member 50 provided on the vehicle 2, and the battery cells 20 are arranged at positions corresponding to the support portion 14 among the plurality of compartments 13. Therefore, heat generated by the battery cells 20 can be exhausted through the vehicle-side attachment member 50. That is, in the above-described battery pack 10, the battery cells 20 can be efficiently cooled. Here, the vehicle-side attachment member 50 is preferably provided outside the passenger compartment of the vehicle 2. Thereby, in the above-described battery pack 10, cooling by outside air can be expected.

[0052] (B) The battery pack 10 of the present embodiment is characterized in that the housing 11 is polygonal columnar, and the plurality of wall surfaces 12 are formed to radially extend from the center inside the housing 11 toward the side ridge 11a.

[0053] With the above-described configuration, the above-described battery pack 10 forms a truss structure by the plurality of wall surfaces 12. Thereby, in the above-described battery pack 10, the strength of the battery cells 20 can be maintained, so that damage to the battery pack 10 when collided can be suppressed. Here, the polygonal columnar shape is preferably a regular polygonal columnar shape. Thereby, in the above-described battery pack 10, for example, a well-balanced accommodation in the circular accommodation space 3 can be expected.

[0054] (C) In the battery pack 10 of this embodiment, the vehicle-side attachment member 50 is suspended and disposed below the vehicle 2, and an accommodation space 3 is formed between the vehicle-side attachment member 50 and the vehicle 2. The housing 11 can be accommodated in the accommodation space 3.

[0055] With such a configuration, the battery pack 10 described above can be efficiently accommodated by utilizing the space outside the vehicle compartment. Further, the battery pack 10 described above can be accommodated even in a vehicle 2 such as a light truck that does not have an accommodation space in the vehicle compartment. Also, since the battery pack 10 described above can be efficiently cooled by outside air, the durability of the battery cells 20 can be improved and power supply can be stably performed.

[0056] (D) In the battery pack 10 of this embodiment, the vehicle-side attachment member 50 is a substantially U-shaped member 50, and the support portion 14 has a groove portion 14a that can be engaged with the substantially U-shaped member 50 as the housing 11 is accommodated in the accommodation space 3.

[0057] With such a configuration, for example, the accommodation space 3 can be efficiently formed on the upper side of the vehicle-side attachment member 50 (substantially U-shaped member 50). Further, as the housing 11 is accommodated in the accommodation space 3, the support portion 14 engages with the groove portion 14a in the vehicle-side attachment portion, so that the housing 11 can be securely fixed to the vehicle-side attachment member 50. Also, since the heat generated by the battery cells 20 in the battery pack 10 described above can be exhausted to the vehicle-side attachment member 50 through the groove portion 14a, the battery cells 20 can be efficiently cooled. Here, the accommodation space 3 may be formed, for example, by intersecting a pair of substantially U-shaped members 50 so as to be orthogonal. Thereby, the battery pack 10 described above can be stably supported by a minimum number of vehicle-side attachment members 50.

[0058] (E) In the battery pack 10 of the present embodiment, the vehicle-side mounting member 50 is suspended and disposed on the lower surface side of the vehicle 2 at the rear end side of the vehicle 2, and has an accommodation space 3 for accommodating the housing 11 on the upper side. A service plug 30 for interrupting at least a part of the voltage in the plurality of battery cells 20 is provided on a side surface or a circumferential surface of the housing 11, and the housing 11 is accommodated in the accommodation space 3 so that the service plug 30 faces the rear end side of the vehicle 2.

[0059] With the above-described configuration of the battery pack 10, when the vehicle 2 is rear-ended, the service plug 30 can be configured to be easily detached. Thereby, in the battery pack 10 described above, when rear-ended, the service plug 30 can be detached to drop or interrupt the voltage.

[0060] (F) The battery pack 10 of the present embodiment is characterized in that the service plug 30 is inclined and disposed so as to face obliquely downward with respect to a side surface or a circumferential surface of the housing 11.

[0061] With the above-described configuration of the battery pack 10, when the vehicle 2 is rear-ended, the service plug 30 can be made into a more easily detachable structure. Therefore, in the battery pack 10 described above, the service plug 30 can be more surely detached during a rear-end collision, and the voltage can be more surely dropped or interrupted.

[0062] (G) The battery pack 10 of the present embodiment is characterized in that a heat conductive member 40 is disposed on the lower surface side of the battery cell 20 disposed at a position corresponding to the support portion 14 so that at least a part thereof overlaps the support portion 14.

[0063] By adopting such a configuration, the above-described battery pack 10 can more reliably conduct the heat generated in the battery cell 20 to the support portion 14 through the heat conduction member 40. As a result, the above-described battery pack 10 can more reliably cool the battery cell 20, and thus an improvement in durability can be expected.

[0064] (H) The battery pack 10 of the present embodiment is characterized in that the housing 11 is formed in an octagonal prism shape, and the outer shapes of the plurality of compartments 13 are formed in a triangular prism shape.

[0065] By adopting such a configuration, the above-described battery pack 10 can be approximated more closely to a circular shape. As a result, the above-described battery pack 10 can, for example, efficiently utilize a circular space and increase the density of the battery cells 20. Therefore, an improvement in the battery capacity of the above-described battery pack 10 can be expected. Further, in the above-described battery pack 10, since a plurality of compartments 13 are formed in a triangular prism shape, a truss structure is formed, so that the strength of the battery cells 20 and the housing 11 can be increased.

[0066] (I) The mounting structure 1 of the battery pack 10 of the present embodiment is characterized in that the accommodation space 3 can accommodate a spare tire in the vehicle 2.

[0067] By adopting such a configuration, the above-described mounting structure 1 of the battery pack 10 can mount (accommodate) the battery pack 10 by effectively using the accommodation space for the spare tire. Therefore, in the above-described mounting structure 1 of the battery pack 10, there is no need to separately provide a vehicle-side mounting member 50, so a cost reduction can be expected.

[0068] The above is the configuration and operation effects of the battery pack 10 and the mounting structure 1 of the battery pack 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Next, details of the battery pack 1000 according to a modified example of the present invention and the mounting structure 100 of the battery pack 1000 will be described. Note that the battery pack 1000 and the mounting structure 100 according to the modified example of the present invention use the same members except that the mounting position is the back door 4 in the vehicle 2 and the shape of the housing 11 is different. Therefore, the description of the same parts will be omitted. Also, note that the same reference numerals are used for the same members as those in the above-described embodiment.

[0069] <<Modified Example>> As shown in FIGS. 4(a) and 4(b), the mounting structure 100 (also referred to as the battery pack mounting structure 100) of the battery pack 1000 according to the modified example is applied to a vehicle 2 having a back door 4 such as an SUV (Sports Utility Vehicle). As shown in FIG. 4(b), a plurality (four in this modified example) of mounting bolts 1050 (vehicle-side mounting members 1050) for attaching a spare tire are erected on the back door 4. Therefore, an accommodation space 3 (an open space in this modified example) is formed on the outer surface of the back door 4. Note that the accommodation space 3 may be a space covered with, for example, a spare tire cover or the like. In such a case, for example, the spare tire cover may be formed in a circular shape, and the battery pack 1000 may be accommodated inside the spare tire cover.

[0070] As shown in FIGS. 3(a) and 3(b), the housing 11 of the battery pack 1000 includes a support portion 1014. In this modified example, the support portion 1014 includes a plurality (four in this modified example) of mounting holes 1014a corresponding to the mounting bolts 1050 (see FIG. 3(b)). The housing 11 can be supported on the outer surface of the back door 4 by screwing nuts onto the mounting bolts 1050 inserted through the mounting holes 1014a. Thereby, the battery pack 1000 (housing 11) is accommodated in the accommodation space 3.

[0071] The above is the configuration of the battery pack 1000 and the battery pack mounting structure 100 according to the modification example of the present invention. The battery pack 1000 and the battery pack mounting structure 100 are supposed to exhibit characteristic operational effects not found in the prior art by having the following characteristic configuration (J).

[0072] (J) The mounting structure 100 of the battery pack 1000 in this modification example is characterized in that the vehicle 2 is provided with a back door 4, the vehicle-side mounting member 1050 is arranged on the outer surface of the back door 4, an accommodation space 3 is formed on the outer surface of the back door 4, and the housing 11 can be accommodated in the accommodation space 3.

[0073] With the above-described configuration, the battery pack 1000 can be mounted on the back door 4. Here, it is preferable that the accommodation space 3 in the above-described battery pack mounting structure 100 is for mounting a spare tire. Thereby, the above-described battery pack mounting structure 100 can efficiently mount (accommodate) the battery pack 1000 even in a vehicle 2 such as an SUV that attaches a spare tire to the back door 4.

[0074] The above is the configuration and operational effects according to the modification example of the present invention. However, the battery packs 10 and 1000 and the battery pack mounting structures 1 and 100 of the present invention are not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the present invention.

[0075] In this embodiment, a light truck is used as the vehicle 2. However, the battery packs 10 and the battery pack mounting structures 1 of the present invention are not limited thereto and can be used in various vehicles. For example, the vehicle 2 may be a van, an SUV, a sedan, a wagon, or the like. Further, the battery packs 10 and the battery pack mounting structures 1 of the present invention can be used in various types of vehicles regardless of whether they are electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, or engine vehicles.

[0076] In this embodiment, a battery cell 20 formed in a cylindrical shape is used. However, battery cells 20 of various aspects, shapes, and sizes can be used. Also, the quantity of battery cells 20 provided can be various quantities, from a single one to a plurality of ones. Further, in this embodiment, a housing 11 formed in an octagonal prism shape is exemplified. However, the battery pack 10 of the present invention can form the housing 11 in various shapes and sizes. For example, the housing 11 may be cylindrical, hexagonal prism-shaped, or the like. Also, the housing 11 can be formed not only in a columnar shape but also in various shapes and sizes that can be accommodated in the accommodation space 3.

[0077] In this embodiment, an example is given in which the outer shapes of a plurality of partitions 13 are formed in a triangular prism shape. However, the partitions 13 can be changed to various shapes and sizes according to the shape of the battery cell 20 or the like to be accommodated. Also, in this embodiment, a plurality of partitions 13 are formed evenly. However, the plurality of partitions 13 may be formed in various combinations of shapes and sizes. Further, in this embodiment, a plurality of partitions 13 are formed by being divided by a plurality of wall surfaces 12 extending radially from the inner side center of the housing 11. However, the battery pack 10 of the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the plurality of wall surfaces 12 can be formed in various shapes and sizes, and by arranging them in various directions (including directions different from the side ridge 11a), partitions 13 of various shapes and sizes may be formed.

[0078] In addition, in this embodiment, the support portion 14 is provided with the groove portion 14a. However, the support portion 14 is not limited to having the groove portion 14a, and those with various shapes, sizes, and forms can be used. Further, the vehicle-side attachment member 50 is not limited to being formed by bending a rod-shaped member into a substantially U-shaped member 50, and can be formed into various shapes and sizes using various members such as plate-shaped members. Also, the material of the vehicle-side attachment member 50 may be formed not only of metal but also of resin or the like. Note that it is desirable for the vehicle-side attachment member 50 to be formed of a material with good thermal conductivity from the viewpoints of heat dissipation and thermal conductivity. In this embodiment, the battery cell 20 is disposed at a position corresponding to the support portion 14 among the plurality of compartments 13, but it is not limited thereto, and the battery cell 20 can be disposed at various positions. For example, the battery cell 20 may be disposed at a position different from the support portion 14.

[0079] In this embodiment, the service plug 30 is provided in the battery pack 10. However, the service plug 30 may be provided as necessary, and a configuration without the service plug 30 is also possible. Further, when the service plug 30 is provided, the service plug 30 can be disposed at various positions, and the direction in which it is disposed can also be oriented in various directions. Also, various shapes and sizes of the service plug 30 can be used.

[0080] In this embodiment, the heat conducting member 40 has both thermal conductivity and vibration resistance. However, the heat conducting member 40 may have either thermal conductivity or vibration resistance. Further, the heat conducting member 40 is not limited to being disposed so as to overlap at least a part of the lower surface side of the battery cell 20, and can be disposed at various positions. Also, the heat conducting member 40 may be provided as necessary, and a configuration without the heat conducting member 40 is also possible.

[0081] In this embodiment, the accommodation space 3 utilized the accommodation space for the spare tire in the vehicle 2. However, the battery pack 10 of the present invention can be accommodated not only in the accommodation space for the spare tire but also in various accommodation spaces of the vehicle 2. Further, the battery pack 10 and the battery pack mounting structure 1 of the present invention can utilize the accommodation spaces for spare tires arranged at various positions. In such a case, it is desirable from the viewpoint of cooling the battery pack 10 that the accommodation space for the spare tire be provided outside the vehicle 2.

[0082] The above are various embodiments and modifications of the battery pack and the battery pack mounting structure according to the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to those exemplified in the above-described embodiments and modifications, and it will be easily understood by those skilled in the art that there may be other embodiments within the scope of the teachings and spirit without departing from the claims.

Industrial Applicability

[0083] The battery pack and the battery pack mounting structure of the present invention can be used for power supply to various electric appliances (especially agricultural implements such as drones and lawn mowers used externally). Further, the battery pack and the battery pack mounting structure of the present invention can be used for various vehicles (light trucks, vans, passenger cars, SUVs, etc.).

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0084] 1: Battery pack mounting structure (mounting structure) 2: Vehicle 10: Battery pack 11: Housing 11a: Side ridge 12: Wall surface 13: Compartment (area) 14: Support portion 14a: Groove portion 20: Battery cell 30: Service plug 40: Heat conduction member 50: Vehicle-side mounting member (rough U-shaped member) 100: Battery pack mounting structure (mounting structure) 1000: Battery pack 1014: Support part 1014a: Mounting hole 1050: Mounting bolt (vehicle-side mounting member)

Claims

1. A battery pack mounted on a vehicle, comprising at least one battery cell, and a polygonal columnar or cylindrical housing for housing the battery cell, wherein the housing comprises a plurality of compartments divided by a plurality of wall surfaces extending radially from the center on the inner side of the housing, and a support portion supported by a vehicle-side attachment member provided on the vehicle, and the battery cell is arranged at a position corresponding to the support portion among the plurality of compartments. The battery pack is characterized by this.

2. The housing is polygonal columnar, and the plurality of wall surfaces are formed so as to extend radially from the center on the inner side of the housing toward the side ridges. The battery pack according to claim 1 is characterized by this.

3. the vehicle-side attachment member is suspended and arranged on the lower side of the vehicle, a housing space is formed between the vehicle-side attachment member and the vehicle, and the housing is capable of being housed in the housing space. The battery pack according to claim 1 or 2 is characterized by this.

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