Power storage device

Abstract

To provide a power storage device including a plurality of power storage modules capable of efficiently and appropriately cooling.SOLUTION: A power storage device includes: a first power storage module (power storage module MA4) and a second power storage module (power storage module MB4) arranged in a first direction (Z direction); and a first cooler (cooler CL2) located between the first power storage module and the second power storage module. Each of the first power storage module and the second power storage module has a first target component at only one of both end parts in the first direction, and is disposed such that an end part where a first target component is provided faces the side opposite to the first cooler.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a power storage device including a plurality of power storage modules. [Background technology]

[0002] Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 2018-073552 (Patent Document 1) discloses an electricity storage device including a plurality of electricity storage modules and a cooler disposed between the electricity storage modules. In this electricity storage device, an elastic member presses the cooler against one of two electricity storage modules located on either side of the cooler. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-073552 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the power storage device described in Patent Document 1, the cooler cools only one of the power storage modules (the power storage module pressed by the elastic member). For power storage devices including multiple power storage modules, there is still room for improvement in terms of cooling efficiency.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present disclosure is to efficiently and appropriately cool an energy storage device including a plurality of energy storage modules. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided the following power storage device.

[0007] (Item 1) The energy storage device includes a first energy storage module and a second energy storage module aligned in a first direction, and a first cooler located between the first energy storage module and the second energy storage module. Each of the first energy storage module and the second energy storage module has a first target component at only one of both end portions in the first direction, and is arranged with the end portion provided with the first target component facing away from the first cooler.

[0008] As described above, by disposing one cooler (first cooler) between a plurality of power storage modules (first power storage module and second power storage module), it becomes easier to efficiently cool the power storage device. Furthermore, by disposing the first target components of each of the first power storage module and the second power storage module away from the first cooler, it is possible to prevent the first cooler from overcooling the first target components. Therefore, with the above configuration, it becomes possible to efficiently and appropriately cool a power storage device including a plurality of power storage modules. The first target component may be a component that is prone to malfunction due to overcooling.

[0009] (Item 2) In the power storage device described in item 1, the first target part includes at least one of the exhaust valve of the corresponding power storage module, the positive electrode terminal of the corresponding power storage module, and the negative electrode terminal of the corresponding power storage module.

[0010] The exhaust valve, the positive electrode terminal, and the negative electrode terminal may malfunction due to overcooling. For example, malfunctions may occur due to condensation caused by overcooling. With the above configuration, overcooling of at least one of the exhaust valve, the positive electrode terminal, and the negative electrode terminal can be suppressed.

[0011] (Item 3) In the power storage device according to item 1 or 2, the first power storage module and the second power storage module have the same configuration.

[0012] Using multiple energy storage modules with the same configuration facilitates the manufacture of the energy storage device. Furthermore, the first energy storage module and the second energy storage module are cooled in the same manner by the first cooler. This reduces performance variations among the energy storage modules due to variations in temperature distribution. By rotating one of two battery modules with the same structure by 180 degrees relative to the other, the first target components of each energy storage module can be spaced apart from the first cooler.

[0013] (Item 4) In the energy storage device according to any one of items 1 to 3, a first thermally conductive material is provided between the first energy storage module and the first cooler in the first direction, and a second thermally conductive material is provided between the second energy storage module and the first cooler in the first direction.

[0014] According to the above configuration, the thermal conductivity between each of the first and second power storage modules and the first cooler is improved. The thermal conductive material has a higher thermal conductivity than air (air gap), for example. The first and second thermal conductive materials may be made of the same material or different materials.

[0015] (Item 5) The power storage device according to any one of items 1 to 4 further includes a first bracket. Each of the first power storage module and the second power storage module is fixed to the first bracket.

[0016] As described above, the first power storage module and the second power storage module are fixed to a common bracket (first bracket), which makes it easier to arrange the first power storage module and the second power storage module in predetermined positions.

[0017] (Item 6) In the energy storage device described in Item 5, the first cooler and the first bracket are arranged side by side in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. A recess is formed in an end surface of each of the first energy storage module and the second energy storage module in the second direction, into which the first bracket fits.

[0018] By forming the recesses as described above, it becomes easier to assemble the first and second electricity storage modules to the first bracket.

[0019] (Item 7) In the energy storage device described in Item 6, a female screw is formed in a portion of the first bracket that fits into the recess and penetrates the portion in a first direction. A first bolt that fastens the first energy storage module to the first bracket is threaded into the female screw. A second bolt that fastens the second energy storage module to the first bracket is threaded into the female screw.

[0020] According to the above configuration, the first and second power storage modules can be easily fastened to the first bracket from both sides of the first bracket in the first direction.

[0021] (Item 8) In the energy storage device described in item 7, a first step is formed on an end face of the first energy storage module opposite the first cooler in the first direction. A first bolt passes through a portion of the first energy storage module where the thickness has been reduced by the first step. A second step is formed on an end face of the second energy storage module opposite the first cooler in the first direction. A second bolt passes through a portion of the second energy storage module where the thickness has been reduced by the second step.

[0022] According to the above configuration, it is easy to use short bolts as the first bolt and the second bolt. Also, by fastening the first and second power storage modules to the first bracket with short bolts, these fastenings are less likely to loosen.

[0023] (Item 9) In the electricity storage device according to any one of items 1 to 8, a paste-like thermally conductive material is applied to both end faces of the first cooler located at the ends in the first direction.

[0024] According to the above configuration, thermal conductivity between each of the first and second power storage modules and the first cooler is improved. Furthermore, when the configuration of paragraph 9 is applied to the power storage device described in paragraph 7 or 8, the thickness of the thermally conductive material can be easily controlled. Fastening the first and second power storage modules to the first bracket from both sides of the first bracket in the first direction makes it easier to make the thickness of the thermally conductive material uniform on both end surfaces.

[0025] (10) The electricity storage device according to any one of paragraphs 5 to 9 further includes a cross member. The first bracket is fastened to the cross member.

[0026] According to the above configuration, the first bracket is more likely to be stabilized. Furthermore, the stability of the first bracket makes it less likely that the first and second energy storage modules will become misaligned. The cross member is a member that forms the framework of the energy storage device or a product (e.g., a vehicle) in which the energy storage device is installed. The cross member may form a case for a battery pack or may be a floor cloth for a vehicle. The cross member may also function as an EA (energy absorbing) material.

[0027] (Item 11) In the electric storage device according to any one of Items 5 to 10, the first cooler includes a first cooling port through which the refrigerant flows into the first cooler and a second cooling port through which the refrigerant flows out of the first cooler. At least one of the first cooling port and the second cooling port is provided such that displacement in a first direction is suppressed by the first bracket.

[0028] According to the above configuration, the first bracket suppresses displacement of the cooling port (at least one of the first cooling port and the second cooling port), thereby preventing damage to the cooling port due to external forces.

[0029] (Item 12) In the electricity storage device described in item 11, the first cooler further includes a port support portion that supports the first cooling port or the second cooling port.

[0030] According to the above configuration, the cooling port (first cooling port or second cooling port) is supported by the first cooler, which eliminates the need to provide a separate member for supporting the cooling port.

[0031] (Item 13) The power storage device according to item 12 further includes a cross member. The port support is provided so as to overlap the cross member in the first direction.

[0032] As described above, by providing the port support portion in the portion where the highly rigid cross member is provided, the rigidity around the port support portion is reinforced.

[0033] (Item 14) The energy storage device described in Item 13 further includes a third energy storage module and a fourth energy storage module aligned in a first direction, a second cooler configured to cool the third energy storage module and the fourth energy storage module, and a second bracket that holds the third energy storage module and the fourth energy storage module. At least a portion of the second cooler is positioned between the third energy storage module and the fourth energy storage module in the first direction. The first energy storage module and the third energy storage module are arranged to be aligned in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The second energy storage module and the fourth energy storage module are arranged to be aligned in the second direction. The port support protrudes from between the first energy storage module and the second energy storage module toward the second cooler. The first cooling port or the second cooling port supported by the port support is positioned between the first energy storage module and the third energy storage module. The port support is arranged so that displacement in the first direction is suppressed by the first bracket and the second bracket.

[0034] According to the above configuration, a cooling port (first cooling port or second cooling port) is disposed between the first power storage module and the third power storage module. This facilitates the assembly (joint assembly) of the piping (refrigerant flow path) to the cooling port. Furthermore, the first bracket and the second bracket suppress displacement of the port support portion, thereby suppressing damage to the port support portion due to the load applied to the cooling port during joint assembly. The portion of the port support portion on the first power storage module side and the portion on the third power storage module side may be supported in the form of a doubly supported beam.

[0035] (Item 15) In the energy storage device described in Item 14, the cross member has a portion located on the opposite side of the second energy storage module from the first cooler in the first direction, a portion protruding toward the port support portion between the second energy storage module and the fourth energy storage module, and a portion located on the opposite side of the fourth energy storage module from the second cooler in the first direction.

[0036] By effectively utilizing the space as described above, it becomes easier to provide a power storage device that has excellent cooling properties and a high volumetric energy density.

[0037] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided the following power storage device.

[0038] (Item 16) The energy storage device includes a first energy storage module and a second energy storage module aligned in a first direction, and a first cooler located between the first energy storage module and the second energy storage module. Each of the first energy storage module and the second energy storage module has a second target component at only one of both end portions in the first direction, and the end portion provided with the second target component is disposed on the first cooler side.

[0039] As described above, by disposing one cooler (first cooler) between a plurality of power storage modules (first power storage module and second power storage module), it becomes easier to efficiently cool the power storage device. Furthermore, by disposing the second target components of each of the first power storage module and the second power storage module on the first cooler side, the first cooler can preferentially cool these second target components. Therefore, with the above configuration, it becomes possible to efficiently and appropriately cool a power storage device including a plurality of power storage modules. The second target component may be a component that should be preferentially cooled.

[0040] (Item 17) In the power storage device described in item 16, the second target component is a component that generates heat while the corresponding power storage module is being charged or discharged.

[0041] According to the above configuration, it is possible to prevent the temperature of the specific component (second target component) from rising excessively while the power storage module is being charged or discharged.

[0042] (Item 18) The energy storage device according to any one of Items 1 to 17 further includes a third energy storage module and a fourth energy storage module aligned in a first direction, and a second cooler configured to cool the third energy storage module and the fourth energy storage module. At least a portion of the second cooler is located between the third energy storage module and the fourth energy storage module in the first direction. The first energy storage module and the third energy storage module are arranged to be aligned in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The second energy storage module and the fourth energy storage module are arranged to be aligned in the second direction. The first cooler includes a first cooling port through which the refrigerant flows into the first cooler and a second cooling port through which the refrigerant flows out from the first cooler. The second cooler includes a third cooling port through which the refrigerant flows into the second cooler and a fourth cooling port through which the refrigerant flows out from the second cooler. The first cooling port and the second cooling port are arranged to be aligned in a third direction perpendicular to both the first direction and the second direction. The third cooling port and the fourth cooling port are arranged to be aligned in the third direction.

[0043] By effectively utilizing the space as described above, it becomes easier to provide a power storage device that has excellent cooling properties and a high volumetric energy density.

[0044] (Item 19) In the electricity storage device described in item 18, the first cooling port and the third cooling port are connected to a common first flow path, and the second cooling port and the fourth cooling port are connected to a common second flow path.

[0045] According to the above configuration, the refrigerant can be supplied from the first flow path to each of the first cooler and the second cooler, and the refrigerant flowing out of each cooler can be collectively flowed into the second flow path. This configuration makes it easier to efficiently and appropriately cool an energy storage device equipped with multiple energy storage modules.

[0046] In another aspect, a vehicle including the power storage device according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 19 may be provided. [Effects of the Invention]

[0047] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to efficiently and appropriately cool a power storage device including a plurality of power storage modules. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0048] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing the interior of a power storage device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure as viewed from above. [Figure 2] 2 is a diagram showing the inside of the power storage device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure as viewed from below. FIG. [Figure 3] 1 is a diagram showing a state in which a heat conductive material is provided in the cooler according to the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 4] 4 is a diagram showing the cooler shown in FIG. 3 in a state before a thermally conductive material is provided. FIG. [Figure 5] 4A and 4B are diagrams for explaining the configuration of a bracket according to the present embodiment. [Figure 6] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating a configuration of an electricity storage module according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7]FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VII-VII in FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII in FIG. [Figure 9] 2 is a diagram illustrating an end portion on the −X side of the power storage device illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 10] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a vehicle equipped with a power storage device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a power storage device according to a first modified example. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a power storage device according to a second modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0049] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, identical or corresponding parts are designated by the same reference numerals, and their description will not be repeated. In each of the drawings used below, of the mutually orthogonal X-, Y-, and Z-axes, the X-axis indicates a first in-plane direction (e.g., the length direction) of the power storage device, the Y-axis indicates a second in-plane direction (e.g., the width direction) of the power storage device, and the Z-axis indicates a height direction of the power storage device. Hereinafter, the directions indicated by the arrows of the X-, Y-, and Z-axes will be indicated with a "+" and the opposite directions will be indicated with a "-".

[0050] The schematic configuration of the power storage device according to this embodiment will be described below with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 1 is a view of the inside of the power storage device as seen from the +Z side (upper side). In Figure 1, the UPR (upper) case is omitted. Figure 2 is a view of the inside of the power storage device as seen from the -Z side (lower side). In Figure 2, the LWR (lower) case is omitted.

[0051] 1 and 2, the energy storage device 100 according to this embodiment is, for example, a battery pack. The energy storage device 100 includes an LWR case 110, cross members 121 to 124, and a UPR case 130, which constitute the case of the battery pack. Each of the cross members 121 to 124 is a cross member formed long in the Y direction, and is fixed (for example, fastened) to the LWR case 110. Each of the cross members 121 to 124 may be a plate-like member processed into an arbitrary shape (for example, a member formed by bending a metal plate member into a U-shape). The cross members 121 to 124 are battery crosses that constitute the framework of the battery pack.

[0052] The power storage device 100 further includes power storage modules MA1 to MA9, MB1 to MB9, coolers CL1 to CL3, and brackets BR1 to BR6, which are housed in a case.

[0053] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, in the energy storage device 100, 18 energy storage modules are arranged in a matrix of three columns in the Y direction (a first Y column, a second Y column, and a third Y column) and three columns in the X direction (a first X column, a second X column, and a third X column) on each of the +Z side (top) and -Z side (bottom) of the coolers CL1 to CL3.

[0054] The first Y column on the +Z side includes power storage modules MA1 to MA3 lined up in the Y direction. The first Y column on the -Z side includes power storage modules MB1 to MB3 lined up in the Y direction. The second Y column on the +Z side includes power storage modules MA4 to MA6 lined up in the Y direction. The second Y column on the -Z side includes power storage modules MB4 to MB6 lined up in the Y direction. The third Y column on the +Z side includes power storage modules MA7 to MA9 lined up in the Y direction. The third Y column on the -Z side includes power storage modules MB7 to MB9 lined up in the Y direction.

[0055] The first X column on the +Z side includes power storage modules MA1, MA4, and MA7 lined up in the X direction. The first X column on the -Z side includes power storage modules MB1, MB4, and MB7 lined up in the X direction. The second X column on the +Z side includes power storage modules MA2, MA5, and MA8 lined up in the X direction. The second X column on the -Z side includes power storage modules MB2, MB5, and MB8 lined up in the X direction. The third X column on the +Z side includes power storage modules MA3, MA6, and MA9 lined up in the X direction. The third X column on the -Z side includes power storage modules MB3, MB6, and MB9 lined up in the X direction.

[0056] The power storage modules MA1 to MA9 and the power storage modules MB1 to MB9 face each other in the Z direction. The coolers CL1 to CL3 are formed in plate shapes on the XY plane and are arranged at the same position (height) in the Z direction. The power storage modules MA1 to MA9 are located on the +Z side of the coolers CL1 to CL3. The power storage modules MB1 to MB9 are located on the -Z side of the coolers CL1 to CL3. The cooler CL1 is configured to cool the power storage modules MA1 to MA3 located on the +Z side of the cooler CL1 and the power storage modules MB1 to MB3 located on the -Z side of the cooler CL1. The cooler CL2 is configured to cool the power storage modules MA4 to MA6 located on the +Z side of the cooler CL2 and the power storage modules MB4 to MB6 located on the -Z side of the cooler CL2. Cooler CL3 is configured to cool power storage modules MA7 to MA9 located on the +Z side of cooler CL3 and power storage modules MB7 to MB9 located on the -Z side of cooler CL3. Power storage modules MA1 to MA9 and power storage modules MB1 to MB9 are connected via brackets BR1 to BR6 (see FIG. 7 described below).

[0057] The configurations of the coolers, brackets, and electricity storage modules will be described in detail below with reference to FIGS.

[0058] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a cooler having a thermally conductive material on its front and back surfaces. In this embodiment, the coolers CL1 to CL3 basically have the same configuration. Specifically, the cooler 20 shown in FIG. 3 is employed as each of the coolers CL1 to CL3. By forming the coolers CL1 to CL3 using a common cooler 20, it becomes easier to control the temperature distribution in the energy storage device 100. Furthermore, the energy storage device 100 can be manufactured more easily, and manufacturing costs can be reduced.

[0059] The cooler 20 includes a plate-shaped main body 21, cooling ports 22a and 23a, a port support 22 that supports the cooling port 22a, and a port support 23 that supports the cooling port 23a. The main body 21 has, for example, a rectangular plate-like outer shape in the XY plane. The surface of the main body 21 may be flat or may have ribs formed thereon. Each of the port supports 22 and 23 protrudes from the main body 21 toward the -X side. The cooling port 22a is a port (refrigerant outlet) through which the refrigerant flows out of the cooler 20. The port support 22 is located on the +Y side of the center of the main body 21 in the Y direction. The cooling port 23a is a port (refrigerant inlet) through which the refrigerant flows into the cooler 20. The port support 23 is located on the -Y side of the center of the main body 21 in the Y direction. The cooler 20 may be made of metal (e.g., aluminum). The cooler 20 may be a single-piece molded product, or may be a composite of a plurality of separately molded parts (the main body 21 and the port support parts 22, 23).

[0060] Thermally conductive materials 41, 42, and 43 are provided on the end surface (top surface) on the +Z side of the main body 21 (see "View from the +Z side"). Thermally conductive materials 44, 45, and 46 are provided on the end surface (bottom surface) on the -Z side of the main body 21 (see "View from the -Z side"). The main body 21 includes a first portion located between the +Z-side power storage module included in the first X-row and the -Z-side power storage module, a second portion located between the +Z-side power storage module included in the second X-row and the -Z-side power storage module, and a third portion located between the +Z-side power storage module included in the third X-row and the -Z-side power storage module. Each of the thermally conductive materials 41 and 44 is formed to a thickness sufficient to fill the gap between the first portion of the main body 21 and the power storage module. Each of the thermally conductive materials 42 and 45 is formed to a thickness sufficient to fill the gap between the second portion of the main body 21 and the power storage module. Each of the thermally conductive materials 43, 46 is formed to a thickness sufficient to fill the gap between the third portion of the main body 21 and the power storage module. Each of the thermally conductive materials 41 to 46 contains a material with a higher thermal conductivity than air, and has higher thermal conductivity than air (air gap). By providing a thermally conductive material between the power storage module and the cooler 20 in the Z direction, the thermal conductivity between the power storage module and the cooler 20 is improved. In this embodiment, the thermally conductive materials 41 to 46 are made of the same material. However, this is not a limitation, and the thermally conductive materials 41 to 46 may be made of different materials.

[0061] As described above, a thermally conductive material is provided on both end surfaces of the cooler 20 located at the ends in the Z direction. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the cooler 20 before the thermally conductive material is provided. As shown in FIG. 4, a paste-like thermally conductive material is applied to the cooler 20. Specifically, the thermally conductive materials 41 and 44 shown in FIG. 3 are applied to the +Z side and the -Z side of the first portion P21 of the main body portion 21, respectively. The thermally conductive materials 42 and 45 shown in FIG. 3 are applied to the +Z side and the -Z side of the second portion P22 of the main body portion 21, respectively. The thermally conductive materials 43 and 46 shown in FIG. 3 are applied to the +Z side and the -Z side of the third portion P23 of the main body portion 21, respectively.

[0062] In this embodiment, each of the thermally conductive materials 41 to 46 includes a paste-like silicone-based material. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the material of each of the thermally conductive materials 41 to 46 is arbitrary. For example, each of the thermally conductive materials 41 to 46 may be a non-silicone-based material (e.g., liquid sodium or thermal grease). Other materials used in known TIMs (Thermal Interface Materials) may also be used as the material of each of the thermally conductive materials 41 to 46.

[0063] As shown in FIG. 1 , the −X side end of each power storage module included in the first Y column is connected to a bracket BR1 and fixed to a cross member 121 via the bracket BR1. The +X side end of each power storage module included in the first Y column is connected to a bracket BR2 and fixed to a cross member 122 via the bracket BR2. The −X side end of each power storage module included in the second Y column is connected to a bracket BR3 and fixed to a cross member 122 via the bracket BR3. The +X side end of each power storage module included in the second Y column is connected to a bracket BR4 and fixed to a cross member 123 via the bracket BR4. The −X side end of each power storage module included in the third Y column is connected to a bracket BR5 and fixed to a cross member 123 via the bracket BR5. The +X side end of each power storage module included in the third Y column is connected to a bracket BR6 and fixed to a cross member 124 via the bracket BR6.

[0064] In this embodiment, the brackets BR1 to BR6 basically have the same configuration. By making the brackets BR1 to BR6 have the same configuration, the manufacturing of the energy storage device 100 becomes easier and the manufacturing costs can be reduced. Each of the brackets BR1 to BR6 is made of, for example, resin. However, the material of each of the brackets BR1 to BR6 can be changed as appropriate. Each bracket may also be made of metal.

[0065] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of each bracket. Each of brackets BR1 to BR6 has the same configuration as bracket 30A or 30B shown in FIG. 5. Bracket 30A and bracket 30B have the same configuration, but are rotated 180 degrees relative to the other around the Z axis. Each of brackets BR1, BR3, and BR5 is arranged similarly to bracket 30A. Each of brackets BR2, BR4, and BR6 is arranged similarly to bracket 30B. Brackets BR2 and BR3 are a pair of brackets (first opposing brackets) facing each other in the X direction and are fixed to a common cross member 122. Brackets BR4 and BR5 are a pair of brackets (second opposing brackets) facing each other in the X direction and are fixed to a common cross member 123. Each of the first and second opposing brackets is arranged similarly to the opposing brackets (brackets 30A and 30B) shown in FIG. 5.

[0066] Each of brackets 30A, 30B is formed long in the Y direction. More specifically, each of brackets 30A, 30B includes holding portions 31 to 33 that hold the power storage module, a connecting portion 34 that connects holding portion 31 and holding portion 32 in the Y direction, and a connecting portion 35 that connects holding portion 32 and holding portion 33 in the Y direction. Holding portion 31 includes fastening portions 31a, 31b and a Y-direction beam portion 31c that connects fastening portion 31a and fastening portion 31b. Holding portion 32 includes fastening portions 32a, 32b and a Y-direction beam portion 32c that connects fastening portion 32a and fastening portion 32b. Holding portion 33 includes fastening portions 33a, 33b and a Y-direction beam portion 33c that connects fastening portion 33a and fastening portion 33b.

[0067] Each of the fastening portions 31a, 31b, 32a, 32b, 33a, and 33b includes a base end portion located near the energy storage module (on the +Y or -Y side of the beam portion) and a protruding portion protruding from the base end portion on a side away from the energy storage module. A hole h1 for fastening the energy storage module is formed in the base end portion. A hole h2 for fastening a cross member is formed in the protruding portion. Both holes h1 and h2 penetrate the bracket in the Z direction. However, hole h1 is a female screw formed in the base material (bracket), and a thread is formed on the inner surface of hole h1. On the other hand, no thread is formed on the inner surface of hole h2, and a nut (nut B22 in FIG. 7, described later) is provided as the female screw separately from the bracket.

[0068] The six holes h1 formed in the base end of bracket 30A are aligned in the Y direction. The six holes h1 formed in the base end of bracket 30B are aligned in the Y direction. The base end of bracket 30A (six holes h1) and the base end of bracket 30B (six holes h1) are disposed at a predetermined interval in the X direction.

[0069] The protruding portion of bracket 30A and the protruding portion of bracket 30B are disposed with a predetermined amount of deviation (offset) in the Y direction. Fastening portion 32a of bracket 30A is disposed so that its protruding portion fits between holding portions 32 and 33 of bracket 30B. Fastening portion 33a of bracket 30A is disposed so that its protruding portion fits between holding portions 31 and 32 of bracket 30B. Fastening portion 32a of bracket 30B is disposed so that its protruding portion fits between holding portions 32 and 33 of bracket 30A. Fastening portion 33a of bracket 30B is disposed so that its protruding portion fits between holding portions 31 and 32 of bracket 30A. The six holes h2 formed in bracket 30A and the six holes h2 formed in bracket 30B (a total of 12 holes h2) are aligned in the Y direction.

[0070] In this embodiment, the power storage modules MA1 to MA9 and MB1 to MB9 basically have the same configuration. Specifically, a power storage module (hereinafter referred to as "MDL") 10 shown in Fig. 6 is used as each of the power storage modules MA1 to MA9 and MB1 to MB9. Forming the power storage modules MA1 to MA9 and MB1 to MB9 using a common MDL 10 makes it easier to manufacture the power storage device 100 and reduces manufacturing costs. Fig. 6 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of each power storage module.

[0071] The MDL 10 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The MDL 10 has faces F1 and F2 facing in the Z direction, faces F3 and F4 facing in the Y direction, and faces F5 and F6 facing in the X direction. Steps S1 to S8 are formed at eight corners of the MDL 10. Step S1 is located at the corner where faces F1, F3, and F6 intersect. Step S2 is located at the corner where faces F1, F4, and F6 intersect. Step S3 is located at the corner where faces F1, F3, and F5 intersect. Step S4 is located at the corner where faces F1, F4, and F5 intersect. Step S5 is located at the corner where faces F2, F3, and F6 intersect. Step S6 is located at the corner where faces F2, F4, and F6 intersect. Step S7 is located at the corner where faces F2, F3, and F5 intersect. Step S8 is located at the corner where faces F2, F4, and F5 intersect.

[0072] A hole h3 is formed in each of the steps S1 to S4, penetrating the MDL 10 in the Z direction. The hole h3 formed in the step S1 reaches the step S5 on the opposite side of the step S1. The hole h3 formed in the step S2 reaches the step S6 on the opposite side of the step S2. The hole h3 formed in the step S3 reaches the step S7 on the opposite side of the step S3. The hole h3 formed in the step S4 reaches the step S8 on the opposite side of the step S4. No threads are formed on the inner surface of the hole h3. The aforementioned hole h1 (FIG. 5) functions as a female screw for a bolt (male screw) that penetrates the hole h3. The diameter of the hole h3 is the same as or larger than the diameter of the hole h1. A recess (counterbore) for accommodating a bolt head or a washer may be formed near the hole h3 in the steps S1 to S8.

[0073] The MDL 10 is configured to store electricity. Specifically, the MDL 10 includes a power storage unit (not shown) that stores power. The power storage unit of the MDL 10 may include a secondary battery such as a lithium-ion battery, a nickel-metal hydride battery, or a sodium-ion battery. Examples of lithium-ion batteries include an LFP battery that uses lithium iron phosphate as the positive electrode active material, or a ternary battery that uses NMC (nickel-manganese-cobalt) as the positive electrode active material. The secondary battery may be a liquid-type secondary battery or an all-solid-state secondary battery. The MDL 10 may include one or more secondary batteries. The power storage unit of the MDL 10 may include a battery pack formed by electrically connecting multiple secondary batteries (cells). The power storage unit of the MDL 10 may include only cells of the same type (e.g., only ternary batteries) or cells of different types (e.g., LFP batteries and ternary batteries). The cells may be laminated cells having one or more wound bodies.

[0074] The end of the MDL 10 on the side F1 further includes a positive terminal 11, a negative terminal 12, and an exhaust device 13. The positive terminal 11 and the negative terminal 12 are used to apply a voltage to the power storage unit of the MDL 10 and to extract power from the power storage unit of the MDL 10. The MDL 10 may be electrically connected to other devices (including other power storage modules) through the positive terminal 11 and the negative terminal 12. Multiple MDLs 10 included in the power storage device 100 may be connected in series or parallel. The power storage device 100 may be electrically connected to an external device that receives power from the power storage device 100 through the positive terminal 11 and the negative terminal 12. The exhaust device 13 is configured to exhaust gas (e.g., smoke) from the power storage unit of the MDL 10. The exhaust device 13 includes an exhaust valve that opens, for example, when the internal pressure of the power storage unit of the MDL 10 increases. The number of exhaust valves is arbitrary. For example, in a configuration in which the MDL 10 includes multiple cells (secondary batteries), an exhaust valve may be provided for each cell. The exhaust device 13 may further include an exhaust path (e.g., a notch or duct) not shown. Smoke generated in the power storage unit of the MDL 10 may be guided to the outside of the power storage device 100 through the exhaust path. In this embodiment, the positive electrode terminal 11, the negative electrode terminal 12, and the exhaust device 13 are provided only on one of the two end portions of the MDL 10 in the Z direction (the end portion on the surface F1 side). In this embodiment, each of the positive electrode terminal 11, the negative electrode terminal 12, and the exhaust device 13 corresponds to an example of a "first target part" according to the present disclosure. The Z direction, the X direction, and the Y direction correspond to examples of a "first direction," a "second direction," and a "third direction," respectively.

[0075] Incidentally, the energy storage module has components other than the energy storage unit (for example, a battery). Cooling some components too much can cause problems. On the other hand, if the cooling capacity of the cooler is reduced to protect these components, other parts of the energy storage module (for example, the energy storage unit) may not be cooled sufficiently. Therefore, in the energy storage device 100 according to this embodiment, multiple energy storage modules are arranged in the orientation described below. This makes it possible to efficiently and appropriately cool the energy storage device including multiple energy storage modules.

[0076] 6, a portion of the cooler CL2 (a first portion of the main body 21) is located between the power storage modules MA4 and MB4 in the Z direction. A portion of the cooler CL2 (a second portion of the main body 21) is located between the power storage modules MA5 and MB5 in the Z direction. A portion of the cooler CL2 (a third portion of the main body 21) is located between the power storage modules MA6 and MB6 in the Z direction.

[0077] The power storage modules MA4 to MA6 and the power storage modules MB4 to MB6 are arranged in opposite directions with respect to the cooler CL2. Specifically, the MDL10 constituting each of the power storage modules MB4 to MB6 is arranged rotated 180° about the X-axis as the rotation axis relative to the MDL10 constituting each of the power storage modules MA4 to MA6. Each of the power storage modules MA4 to MA6 is arranged with its surface F1 (end portion on which the first target component is provided) facing away from the cooler CL2 (+Z side). That is, each of the power storage modules MA4 to MA6 is arranged with its surface F2 facing the cooler CL2 side (-Z side). Thermal conductive materials 41 to 43 are provided between the power storage modules MA4 to MA6 and the cooler CL2 in the Z direction. Each of the power storage modules MB4 to MB6 is arranged with its surface F1 (end portion on which the first target component is provided) facing away from the cooler CL2 (-Z side). That is, each of the power storage modules MB4 to MB6 is arranged with its face F2 facing the cooler CL2 side (+Z side). Heat conductive materials 44 to 46 (FIG. 3) are provided between the power storage modules MB4 to MB6 and the cooler CL2 in the Z direction, respectively. Each of the power storage modules MA4 to MA6 and MB4 to MB6 is fixed to a bracket BR3.

[0078] Although FIG. 6 shows only the power storage modules MA4 to MA6 and MB4 to MB6 as representatives, the power storage modules MA1 to MA3, MB1 to MB3 and the power storage modules MA7 to MA9, MB7 to MB9 are also arranged relative to the coolers CL1 and CL3 in the manner shown in FIG.

[0079] Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VII-VII in Fig. 1. As shown in Figs. 1 and 7, the cooler CL2 and the bracket BR3 are arranged side by side in the X direction. A recess R into which a portion of the bracket BR3 fits is formed on the -X side end face (face F6) of the power storage module MA4 and the -X side end face (face F6) of the power storage module MB4. More specifically, the -Z side corner (step S6) of the power storage module MA4 and the +Z side corner (step S5) of the power storage module MB4 form the recess R. The recess R opens to the -X side.

[0080] A hole h1 (female thread) penetrating the bracket BR3 in the Z direction is formed in a portion of the bracket BR3 that fits into the recess R (the base end of the fastening portion 31b shown in FIG. 5). In the XY plane, the hole h3 (step S2) of the power storage module MA4, the hole h3 (step S1) of the power storage module MB4, and the hole h1 of the bracket BR3 are arranged at the same position. A bolt B11 (first bolt) is inserted from the +Z side into the hole h3 that penetrates the power storage module MA4 from the step S2 to the step S6, passes through the hole h3, and is screwed into the hole h1. The bolt B11 fastens the power storage module MA4 to the bracket BR3. A bolt B12 (second bolt) is inserted from the -Z side into the hole h3 that penetrates the power storage module MB4 from the step S1 to the step S5, passes through the hole h3, and is screwed into the hole h1. The bolt B12 fastens the power storage module MB4 to the bracket BR3.

[0081] A step S2 (first step) is formed on the surface F1 of the power storage module MA4 (the end surface opposite the cooler CL2 in the Z direction). A bolt B11 passes through the portion of the power storage module MA4 where the thickness has been reduced by the step S2. A step S1 (second step) is formed on the surface F1 of the power storage module MB4 (the end surface opposite the cooler CL2 in the Z direction). A bolt B12 passes through the portion of the power storage module MB4 where the thickness has been reduced by the step S1. This configuration makes it easier to use short bolts for each of the bolts B11 and B12. Fastening with short bolts makes the fastening less likely to loosen.

[0082] In this embodiment, a paste-like thermally conductive material is applied to both end surfaces of the cooler CL2 located at the ends in the Z direction (see FIGS. 3 and 4). A thermally conductive material 41 (first thermally conductive material) is provided between the surface F2 of the power storage module MA4 and the cooler CL2. A thermally conductive material 44 (second thermally conductive material) is provided between the surface F2 of the power storage module MB4 and the cooler CL2. The power storage modules, the coolers, and the brackets are all rigid components. In contrast, the thermally conductive materials are flexible materials. Tightening the bolts B11 and B12 to their seated positions compresses the thermally conductive materials 41 and 44, adjusting their thicknesses to a predetermined value. The predetermined thickness is determined by the depth of the step S6 of the power storage module MA4, the depth of the step S5 of the power storage module MB4, and the thickness of the bracket BR3 in the Z direction. This makes it easier to manage the thickness of the thermally conductive materials 41 and 44 provided on both sides of the cooler CL2. Furthermore, by fastening the power storage modules MA4 and MB4 to the bracket BR3 from both sides of the bracket BR3 in the Z direction, it becomes easier to make the thermally conductive materials 41 and 44 have a uniform thickness.

[0083] The bracket BR3 is fastened to a cross member 122 and fixed to the LWR case 110 (FIG. 1) via the cross member 122. Specifically, a hole h4 is formed in the cross member 122 (more specifically, a portion 122b in FIG. 8, which will be described later). In the XY plane, the hole h2 formed in the bracket BR3 (more specifically, the protruding portion of the fastening portion 31b shown in FIG. 5) and the hole h4 in the cross member 122 are located at the same position. The bolt B21 is inserted into the hole h2 from the +Z side, passes through the holes h2 and h4, and is threaded into a nut B22 (female thread) provided on the -Z side of the cross member 122. The bracket BR3 and the cross member 122 are sandwiched between the head of the bolt B21 and the nut B22.

[0084] 7 shows only the connection structure between each of the power storage modules MA4, MB4 and the bracket BR3 as a representative example, but the bracket BR3 is also connected to the other power storage modules included in the second Y column (power storage modules MA5, MB5, MA6, MB6) using a similar structure. The connection structure between each power storage module included in the second Y column and the bracket BR4 is also the same as the connection structure shown in FIG. 7. The connection structure between each power storage module included in the first Y column and the brackets BR1, BR2, and the connection structure between each power storage module included in the third Y column and the brackets BR5, BR6 are also the same as the structure shown in FIG.

[0085] 1 and 2, each of the brackets BR1 and BR2 is configured to hold the power storage modules MA1 to MA3 and MB1 to MB3. The cooler CL1 has a portion located between the power storage modules MA1 and MB1 in the Z direction, a portion located between the power storage modules MA2 and MB2 in the Z direction, and a portion located between the power storage modules MA3 and MB3 in the Z direction. The cooling port 22a (FIG. 3) of the cooler CL1 is connected to a joint 74. The joint 74 is connected to a flow path 71 (e.g., a pipe) extending in the Y direction. The joint 74 is connected to a flow path 70 (e.g., a pipe) via the flow path 71. The flow path 70 is located on the +Y side of the first X column, and allows the refrigerant to flow in the X direction. The flow path 71 connects the joint 74 and the flow path 70, and allows the refrigerant flowing out of the cooling port 22a of the cooler CL1 to flow into the flow path 70. Furthermore, cooling port 23a of cooler CL1 (FIG. 3) is connected to joint 84. Joint 84 is connected to flow path 81 (for example, piping) extending in the Y direction. Joint 84 is connected to flow path 80 (for example, piping) via flow path 81. Flow path 80 is located on the -Y side of the third X column, and allows refrigerant to flow in the X direction. Flow path 81 connects joint 84 and flow path 80, and allows refrigerant flowing through flow path 80 to flow into cooling port 23a of cooler CL1. In cooler CL1, the direction in which power storage modules MA1 to MA3 are arranged, the direction in which power storage modules MB1 to MB3 are arranged, and the direction in which cooling port 22a (joint 74) and cooling port 23a (joint 84) are arranged are all in the Y direction and coincide with each other.

[0086] Each of the brackets BR3 and BR4 is configured to hold the power storage modules MA4 to MA6 and MB4 to MB6. The cooler CL2 has a portion located between the power storage modules MA4 and MB4 in the Z direction, a portion located between the power storage modules MA5 and MB5 in the Z direction, and a portion located between the power storage modules MA6 and MB6 in the Z direction. The cooling port 22a (FIG. 3) of the cooler CL2 is connected to a joint 75. The joint 75 is connected to a flow path 72 (e.g., a pipe) extending in the Y direction. The joint 75 is connected to the flow path 70 via the flow path 72. The flow path 72 connects the joint 75 to the flow path 70, and allows the refrigerant flowing out of the cooling port 22a of the cooler CL2 to flow into the flow path 70. The cooling port 23a (FIG. 3) of the cooler CL2 is connected to a joint 85. The joint 85 is connected to a flow path 82 (e.g., a pipe) extending in the Y direction. The joint 85 is connected to the flow path 80 via a flow path 82. The flow path 82 connects the joint 85 and the flow path 80, and causes the refrigerant flowing through the flow path 80 to flow into the cooling port 23a of the cooler CL2. In the cooler CL2, the direction in which the power storage modules MA4 to MA6 are lined up, the direction in which the power storage modules MB4 to MB6 are lined up, and the direction in which the cooling port 22a (joint 75) and the cooling port 23a (joint 85) are lined up are all in the Y direction and coincide with each other.

[0087] Each of the brackets BR5 and BR6 is configured to hold the power storage modules MA7 to MA9 and MB7 to MB9. The cooler CL3 has a portion located between the power storage modules MA7 and MB7 in the Z direction, a portion located between the power storage modules MA8 and MB8 in the Z direction, and a portion located between the power storage modules MA9 and MB9 in the Z direction. The cooling port 22a (FIG. 3) of the cooler CL3 is connected to a joint 76. The joint 76 is connected to a flow path 73 (e.g., a pipe) extending in the Y direction. The joint 76 is connected to the flow path 70 via the flow path 73. The flow path 73 connects the joint 76 to the flow path 70, and allows the refrigerant flowing out of the cooling port 22a of the cooler CL3 to flow into the flow path 70. The cooling port 23a (FIG. 3) of the cooler CL3 is connected to a joint 86. The joint 86 is connected to a flow path 83 (e.g., a pipe) extending in the Y direction. The joint 86 is connected to the flow path 80 via a flow path 83. The flow path 83 connects the joint 86 and the flow path 80, and causes the refrigerant flowing through the flow path 80 to flow into the cooling port 23a of the cooler CL3. In the cooler CL3, the direction in which the power storage modules MA7 to MA9 are lined up, the direction in which the power storage modules MB7 to MB9 are lined up, and the direction in which the cooling port 22a (joint 76) and the cooling port 23a (joint 86) are lined up are all in the Y direction and coincide with each other.

[0088] As described above, the cooling ports 23a of the coolers CL1, CL2, and CL3 are connected to a common flow path 80 (first flow path). The cooling ports 22a of the coolers CL1, CL2, and CL3 are connected to a common flow path 70 (second flow path). In this embodiment, the cooling ports 23a of the coolers CL2, CL2, CL1, and CL1 are examples of the "first cooling port," "second cooling port," "third cooling port," and "fourth cooling port" according to the present disclosure. The power storage modules MA4, MB4, MA1, and MB1 are examples of the "first power storage module," "second power storage module," "third power storage module," and "fourth power storage module," according to the present disclosure. Moreover, the cooler CL2, the cooler CL1, the bracket BR3, and the bracket BR2 correspond to examples of the "first cooler," the "second cooler," the "first bracket," and the "second bracket" according to the present disclosure, respectively.

[0089] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII in FIG. 1. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 8, the port support 22 of the cooler CL2 is provided to overlap the cross member 122 in the Z direction. Specifically, the cross member 122 has a portion 122a located on the −Z side of the power storage module MB1 (the side opposite the cooler CL1 in the Z direction), a portion 122b protruding toward the +Z side (the port support 22 side of the cooler CL2) between the power storage module MB4 and the power storage module MB1, and a portion 122c located on the −Z side of the power storage module MB4 (the side opposite the cooler CL2 in the Z direction). By providing the port support 22 in the portion where the highly rigid cross member 122 is provided, the rigidity of the periphery of the port support 22 is reinforced. Furthermore, the port support 22 has a hollow structure. The hollow space formed inside the port support 22 facilitates shock absorption.

[0090] The port support 22 of the cooler CL2 protrudes from between the power storage modules MA4 and MB4 toward the -X side (toward the cooler CL1). The cooling port 22a of the cooler CL2 is located between the power storage modules MA4 and MA1. The cooling port 22a of the cooler CL2 is provided so that displacement in the Z direction (more specifically, displacement on the -Z side) is suppressed by the brackets BR2 and BR3. In this embodiment, the port support 22 of the cooler CL2 is not in contact with either the brackets BR2 or BR3. As shown in FIG. 6, the beam 31c of the bracket BR3 is located near the -Z side of the port support 22 of the cooler CL2. Furthermore, the beam 33c of the bracket BR2 (FIG. 5) is disposed at the same height (position in the Z direction) as the beam 31c of the bracket BR3. Each of the beams 31c, 33c is formed in a U-shape in the YZ plane (see FIG. 6). When a force (load) on the -Z side is applied to the port support portion 22 of the cooler CL2 and the port support portion 22 is pushed toward the -Z side, the port support portion 22 comes into contact with the brackets BR2 and BR3. The brackets BR2 and BR3 support the port support portion 22 in the form of a doubly supported beam, suppressing displacement of the port support portion 22 and the cooling port 22a toward the -Z side. This prevents damage to the port support portion 22 and the cooling port 22a caused by an external force. For example, deformation of the port support portion 22 due to a load applied to the cooling port 22a during joint assembly is suppressed. The port support portion 22 of the cooler CL2 may be in contact with at least one of the brackets BR2 and BR3 when no force is applied.

[0091] Figure 8 shows only the support structure for cooling port 22a of cooler CL2 as a representative example, but the other cooling ports arranged between the energy storage modules (cooling port 23a of cooler CL2, cooling port 22a of cooler CL3, and cooling port 23a of cooler CL3) are also supported by a similar structure.

[0092] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the −X side end of the power storage device 100. In FIG. 9, a part of the case is omitted so that the interior of the case can be seen. With reference to FIGS. 1 and 9, a T-type joint 70a connected to the flow paths 70 and 71 is provided at the −X side end of the flow path 70. The T-type joint 70a further has a first connection port in addition to ports connected to the flow paths 70 and 71. Furthermore, a T-type joint 80a connected to the flow paths 80 and 81 is provided at the −X side end of the flow path 80. The T-type joint 80a further has a second connection port in addition to ports connected to the flow paths 80 and 81. By connecting a refrigerant circuit including a pump (for example, a refrigerant circuit C1 in FIG. 10 described later) to the first connection port (T-type joint 70a) and the second connection port (T-type joint 80a), refrigerant can be supplied from the flow path 80 to each of the coolers CL1 to CL3, and the refrigerant flowing out of each cooler can be collectively flowed through the flow path 70. The power storage modules MA1 to MA9 and MB1 to MB9 can be continuously cooled by circulating the coolant through each of the coolers CL1 to CL3 using a pump. The coolant may be either a liquid (for example, water or antifreeze) or a gas (for example, carbon dioxide).

[0093] FIG. 9 illustrates three patterns of refrigerant paths formed in the main body 21 of each of the coolers CL1 to CL3. The refrigerant paths are paths through which the refrigerant flows and are formed inside the main body 21 of the cooler 20. The refrigerant flowing through the main body 21 of the cooler 20 exchanges heat with each of the multiple power storage modules provided in the cooler 20. The refrigerant paths are formed so that the refrigerant exchanges heat with the entire or most of the area of ​​the main body 21. In the first pattern, the flow paths are formed so that the refrigerant travels back and forth in the X direction while advancing toward the +Y side. In the second pattern, the flow paths are formed so that the refrigerant travels back and forth in the Y direction while advancing toward the +X side. In the third pattern, the flow paths are formed so that the refrigerant flows through multiple branch paths simultaneously toward the +Y side. However, the refrigerant paths in each cooler are not limited to these patterns and can be set arbitrarily.

[0094] The energy storage device 100 having the above-described configuration can be cooled efficiently and appropriately. Specifically, each of the coolers CL1 to CL3 is configured to cool the energy storage modules arranged on both sides in the Z direction. This makes it easier for the coolers CL1 to CL3 to efficiently cool the energy storage device 100. Furthermore, the energy storage modules MA1 to MA9 and MB1 to MB9 are arranged so that the ends where the positive electrode terminal 11, the negative electrode terminal 12, and the exhaust device 13 are provided face away from the coolers. This makes it possible to prevent the positive electrode terminal 11, the negative electrode terminal 12, and the exhaust device 13 from being cooled too much (and thus problems caused by condensation).

[0095] Such a power storage device 100 may be mounted on, for example, a mobile object. Examples of mobile objects include automobiles (electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, etc.), vehicles other than automobiles (ships, airplanes, etc.), mobile machines (agricultural machines, construction machines, etc.), and unmanned mobile objects (automated guided vehicles, robots, etc.). However, the power storage device may be used for any purpose, and may be for stationary purposes.

[0096] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a vehicle equipped with a power storage device 100. The vehicle 200 shown in FIG. 10 is equipped with the power storage device 100. In FIG. 10, the up-down direction, the front-rear direction, and the left-right direction, which are perpendicular to one another, are shown. "Down" corresponds to the vertical direction (the direction of gravity), and "up" corresponds to the opposite direction. The power storage device 100 is equipped in the vehicle 200 with, for example, the -Z side surface facing downward and the -X side surface facing forward.

[0097] The vehicle 200 includes refrigerant circuits C1 and C2, a chiller 240, and a drive device 260. The refrigerant circuit C1 includes a pump 210, a heater 220, and a reserve tank (R / T) 230. The pump 210 circulates refrigerant through the refrigerant circuit C1. The heater 220 heats the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant circuit C1 in response to a request from a control device (e.g., an on-board computer) not shown. The refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant circuit C1 cools the power storage device 100 when the temperature of the power storage device 100 rises. However, when the temperature of the power storage device 100 is low due to the weather or the location (e.g., a cold region), the refrigerant heated by the heater 220 may raise the temperature of the power storage device 100. The refrigerant circuit C2 includes a refrigeration cycle device 250. The refrigeration cycle device 250 includes various devices that adjust temperature through a refrigeration cycle (i.e., a cycle of evaporation, compression, condensation, and expansion strokes). The cooling circuit of an air conditioner mounted on the vehicle 200 may constitute the refrigeration cycle device 250. The refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant circuit C2 is cooled by the refrigeration cycle device 250. The chiller 240 is connected to the refrigerant circuits C1 and C2, and performs heat exchange between the refrigerant circulating through the refrigerant circuit C1 and the refrigerant circulating through the refrigerant circuit C2.

[0098] The vehicle 200 is, for example, an electric vehicle configured to be able to run using electric power output from the power storage device 100. The drive device 260 generates power for running the vehicle 200 using electric power supplied from the power storage device 100. The drive device 260 includes, for example, a motor that rotates drive wheels of the vehicle 200 and a PCU (Power Control Unit). The PCU is a circuit that drives the motor using electric power from the power storage device 100 and includes, for example, an inverter. The power storage device 100 may be installed either above or below the floor of the vehicle 200. Note that the power storage device 100 mounted on the vehicle 200 may be modified to have a packless structure. Cross members (floor cross members) provided on the floor panel of the vehicle 200 may be adopted instead of the cross members 121 to 124 (battery cross members) provided on the LWR case 110. The cross members may function as EA materials.

[0099] If a combination of a cooler and two energy storage modules cooled by the cooler is defined as one unit (hereinafter referred to as a "stack unit"), the energy storage device 100 includes nine stack units. In each stack unit, the cooler is located between the two energy storage modules in the Z direction, and each of these two energy storage modules is arranged so that the end on the face F1 side (the end on which the first target component is provided) faces away from the cooler. The number of stack units in the energy storage device can be changed as appropriate. The number of stack units may be one, two to eight, ten to less than 30, or 30 or more.

[0100] In the energy storage device 100, a plurality of stacked units are arranged in each of the X direction and the Y direction. However, the energy storage device 100 does not include a plurality of stacked units arranged in the Z direction. However, this is not limiting, and a stacked unit may be added in the Z direction of any of the stacked units included in the energy storage device 100.

[0101] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a power storage device according to a first modified example. Referring to FIG. 11, the power storage device 100A includes multiple stack units arranged in the Z direction. The stack unit U1 corresponds to the stack unit illustrated in FIG. 1, i.e., a combination of a cooler CL2 and power storage modules MA4 and MB4 cooled by the cooler CL2. The cooler CL2 has the configuration illustrated in FIG. 3. In the power storage device 100A, a spacer 60 and a stack unit U2 are added to the power storage device 100. The spacer 60 is provided between the stack unit U1 and the stack unit U2 in the Z direction. The spacer 60 may function as an exhaust duct. The stack unit U2 includes a cooler CL4 and power storage modules MC4 and MD4 cooled by the cooler CL4. Each of the power storage modules MC4 and MD4 is formed by, for example, the MDL10 illustrated in FIG. 6. The cooler CL4 has, for example, the configuration illustrated in FIG. 3. However, the configuration of the cooler CL4 can be modified as appropriate.

[0102] 11, a stacked unit is added to the +Z side of the power storage module MA4 in the power storage device 100. A stacked unit may also be added to the +Z side of at least one of the power storage modules MA1 to MA3 and MA5 to MA9 in the power storage device 100 in a similar manner.

[0103] The configuration of the stack unit is not limited to the above. For example, in the stack unit, each of the two power storage modules cooled by the cooler may have a configuration different from that of the MDL 10 shown in FIG. 6. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a power storage device according to a second modification. Referring to FIG. 12, the power storage device 100B includes a stack unit U3. The stack unit U3 includes a cooler 20 and two power storage modules 10A cooled by the cooler 20. The power storage module 10A includes a power storage unit P1 and a heat-generating unit P2. The heat-generating unit P2 includes a component (second target component) that generates heat during charging or discharging of the power storage module 10A. Examples of such components include a resistive element through which current flows during charging or discharging of the power storage unit P1, and a circuit board used in charging and / or discharging control of the power storage unit P1. In the stack unit U3, each of the two power storage modules 10A cooled by the cooler 20 has one of its two end portions in the Z direction, where the heat-generating unit P2 is provided, located on the cooler 20 side. By arranging the heat generating portion P2 of each power storage module on the side of the cooler 20, the heat generating portion P2 of each power storage module can be preferentially cooled by the cooler 20. The power storage device 100B may include a plurality of stacked units U3. For example, nine stacked units U3 may be arranged in the manner shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0104] The configuration of each power storage module is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. 6. In the power storage device 100, the power storage modules MA1 to MA9 and MB1 to MB9 may have different configurations. The configuration of each cooler is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. 3. The shape of each cooler can be changed as appropriate. In the power storage device 100, the coolers CL1 to CL3 may have different configurations. It is not essential to provide a thermally conductive material on the surface of the cooler, and the thermally conductive material may be omitted. The configuration of each bracket is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. 5. The shape of each bracket can be changed as appropriate. In the power storage device 100, the brackets BR1 to BR6 may have different configurations.

[0105] The various features of the power storage device described above (the features described in the embodiments and modifications) may be applied in any combination. The power storage device may also be applied to devices other than vehicles.

[0106] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, not by the description of the above embodiments, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0107] 10, 10A, MA1 to MA9, MB1 to MB9: storage modules, 20, CL1 to CL4: coolers, 30A, 30B, BR1 to BR6: brackets, 100, 100A, 100B: storage devices, P1: storage section, P2: heat generating section.

Claims

1. a first power storage module and a second power storage module arranged in a first direction; a first cooler located between the first power storage module and the second power storage module, Each of the first storage module and the second storage module has a first target component at only one of both end portions in the first direction, and is arranged with the end portion on which the first target component is provided facing away from the first cooler.

2. The power storage device according to claim 1 , wherein the first target component includes at least one of an exhaust valve of a corresponding power storage module, a positive terminal of a corresponding power storage module, and a negative terminal of a corresponding power storage module.

3. The power storage device according to claim 1 , wherein the first power storage module and the second power storage module have the same configuration.

4. a first thermally conductive material is provided between the first power storage module and the first cooler in the first direction; The power storage device according to claim 1 , further comprising a second thermally conductive material provided between the second power storage module and the first cooler in the first direction.

5. The power storage device further includes a first bracket, The power storage device according to claim 1 , wherein each of the first power storage module and the second power storage module is fixed to the first bracket.

6. the first cooler and the first bracket are arranged to be aligned in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, The power storage device according to claim 5 , wherein a recess into which the first bracket fits is formed on an end surface of each of the first power storage module and the second power storage module in the second direction.

7. a female screw is formed in a portion of the first bracket that is inserted into the recess and that penetrates the portion in the first direction; a first bolt that fastens the first power storage module to the first bracket is threaded into the female thread; The energy storage device according to claim 6 , wherein a second bolt that fastens the second energy storage module to the first bracket is threadedly engaged with the female thread.

8. a first step is formed on an end surface of the first power storage module opposite to the first cooler in the first direction, the first bolt penetrates a portion of the first power storage module where the thickness is reduced by the first step; a second step is formed on an end surface of the second power storage module opposite to the first cooler in the first direction, The power storage device according to claim 7 , wherein the second bolt passes through a portion of the second power storage module where the thickness is reduced by the second step.

9. The power storage device according to claim 7 , wherein both end surfaces of the first cooler located at the ends in the first direction are coated with a paste-like thermally conductive material.

10. The power storage device further includes a cross member, The power storage device according to claim 5 , wherein the first bracket is fastened to the cross member.

11. the first cooler includes a first cooling port through which a refrigerant flows into the first cooler and a second cooling port through which the refrigerant flows out of the first cooler; The power storage device according to claim 5 , wherein at least one of the first cooling port and the second cooling port is provided such that displacement in the first direction is suppressed by the first bracket.

12. The power storage device according to claim 11 , wherein the first cooler further includes a port support portion that supports the first cooling port or the second cooling port.

13. The power storage device further includes a cross member, The power storage device according to claim 12 , wherein the port support portion is provided so as to overlap the cross member in the first direction.

14. The power storage device is a third power storage module and a fourth power storage module arranged side by side in the first direction; a second cooler configured to cool the third power storage module and the fourth power storage module; a second bracket that holds the third power storage module and the fourth power storage module; Furthermore, at least a portion of the second cooler is located between the third power storage module and the fourth power storage module in the first direction; the first power storage module and the third power storage module are arranged to be aligned in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, the second power storage module and the fourth power storage module are arranged to be aligned in the second direction, the port support portion protrudes from between the first power storage module and the second power storage module toward the second cooler, the first cooling port or the second cooling port supported by the port support portion is located between the first power storage module and the third power storage module, The power storage device according to claim 13 , wherein the port support portion is provided such that displacement in the first direction is suppressed by the first bracket and the second bracket.

15. 15. The energy storage device according to claim 14, wherein the cross member has a portion located on the opposite side of the second energy storage module from the first cooler in the first direction, a portion that protrudes toward the port support portion between the second energy storage module and the fourth energy storage module, and a portion located on the opposite side of the fourth energy storage module from the second cooler in the first direction.

16. a first power storage module and a second power storage module arranged in a first direction; a first cooler located between the first power storage module and the second power storage module, Each of the first storage module and the second storage module has a second target component at only one of both end portions in the first direction, and the end portion where the second target component is provided is positioned on the first cooler side.

17. The power storage device according to claim 16 , wherein the second target component is a component that generates heat while a corresponding power storage module is being charged or discharged.

18. The power storage device is a third power storage module and a fourth power storage module arranged side by side in the first direction; a second cooler configured to cool the third power storage module and the fourth power storage module; Furthermore, at least a portion of the second cooler is located between the third power storage module and the fourth power storage module in the first direction; the first power storage module and the third power storage module are arranged to be aligned in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, the second power storage module and the fourth power storage module are arranged to be aligned in the second direction, the first cooler includes a first cooling port through which a refrigerant flows into the first cooler and a second cooling port through which the refrigerant flows out of the first cooler; the second cooler includes a third cooling port through which the refrigerant flows into the second cooler and a fourth cooling port through which the refrigerant flows out of the second cooler; the first cooling port and the second cooling port are arranged to be aligned in a third direction perpendicular to both the first direction and the second direction, The power storage device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the third cooling port and the fourth cooling port are arranged to be aligned in the third direction.

19. the first cooling port and the third cooling port are connected to a common first flow path, The power storage device according to claim 18 , wherein the second cooling port and the fourth cooling port are connected to a common second flow path.

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