Clamping member and battery pack

Abstract

The present invention provides a clamping member that can increase the rigidity of a case when a battery module is housed in the case. [Solution] The clamping member comprises a first end plate and a second end plate configured to clamp the battery stack in the stacking direction. At least the first end plate has a covering portion and two fixing portions. The covering portion has an elongated shape extending in the longitudinal direction and is configured to cover the battery stack from the stacking direction. The fixing portions are configured to be fixable to the inner surface of the case. The covering portion has at least two plate-like portions and at least one bead portion. The at least two plate-like portions are arranged in the short direction, sandwiching at least one bead portion. The at least one bead portion extends in the longitudinal direction, curving so as to bulge out toward the battery stack side or the opposite side from the at least two plate-like portions. The two fixing portions are provided at both ends of the covering portion in the longitudinal direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a clamping member.

Background Art

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 describes a battery module having a battery laminate and a clamping member. The battery laminate has a plurality of battery cells arranged in a predetermined stacking direction. The clamping member has two end plates that clamp the battery laminate in the stacking direction.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] This type of battery module may be housed in a case, for example. In this case, it is conceivable to increase the rigidity of the case so that the case is difficult to deform by an external force. However, in order to increase the rigidity of the case, for example, when the thickness of the plate material constituting the case is increased, there is a problem that the weight and manufacturing cost of the case increase. Therefore, the inventor has considered giving the clamping member a function as a reinforcing member for the case.

[0005] One aspect of this disclosure provides a clamping member that can increase the rigidity of a case when a battery module is housed in the case.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure is a clamping member comprising a first end plate and a second end plate. The first end plate and the second end plate are configured to clamp a battery stack in the stacking direction. The battery stack has a plurality of battery cells arranged in a predetermined stacking direction. Of the first and second end plates, at least the first end plate has a covering portion and two fixing portions. The covering portion has an elongated shape extending in the longitudinal direction. The longitudinal direction is perpendicular to the stacking direction. The covering portion is configured to cover the battery stack from the stacking direction. The fixing portions are configured to be fixable to the inner surface of a case that houses the battery stack and the clamping member. The covering portion has at least two plate-like portions and at least one bead portion. The at least two plate-like portions are plate-like portions arranged in the short direction, sandwiching at least one bead portion. The short direction is perpendicular to both the stacking direction and the longitudinal direction. At least one bead portion is a plate-like portion that extends longitudinally, curving to bulge outward toward or opposite the battery stack than at least two plate-like portions. Two fixing portions are provided at both ends of the covering portion in the longitudinal direction.

[0007] By applying a clamping member with this configuration to a battery module, the rigidity of the case can be increased when the battery module is housed in the case.

[0008] In one aspect of this disclosure, of the first and second end plates, at least the first end plate may further have a flange portion. The flange portion extends from the edge of the covering portion in the short direction toward the battery stack. The flange portion may be continuous from one end to the other in the longitudinal direction of the covering portion.

[0009] By applying a clamping member with this configuration to a battery module, the rigidity of the case can be further increased when the battery module is housed in the case.

[0010] In one aspect of this disclosure, the two fixing portions may be composed of both ends of the flange portion in the longitudinal direction. With such a configuration, a clamping member can be obtained that can increase the rigidity of the case when the battery module is housed in the case, without increasing the number of steps required during the manufacturing of the clamping member.

[0011] In one aspect of this disclosure, each of the first end plate and the second end plate may have an engaging portion. The engaging portion is configured to engage with a restraining member extending from the first end plate to the second end plate.

[0012] By applying a clamping member with this configuration to a battery module, the rigidity of the case can be further increased when the battery module is housed in the case.

[0013] In one aspect of this disclosure, at least one bead portion may be curved to bulge outward toward the battery stack than at least two plate-like portions. Such a configuration makes it easier to reduce the amount of expansion of the battery stack in the stacking direction.

[0014] In one aspect of this disclosure, the battery stack may further include a heat exchanger. The heat exchanger is configured to contact at least one of a plurality of battery cells in the stacking direction and to exchange heat with the battery cell. The covering portion may further include an insertion portion. The insertion portion is configured to allow the insertion of a pipe for supplying a heat exchange medium to the heat exchanger or for discharging a heat exchange medium from the heat exchanger. The insertion portion may be provided at at least one end of the covering portion in the longitudinal direction.

[0015] This configuration makes it easier to further reduce the amount of expansion of the battery stack in the stacking direction.

[0016] In one aspect of this disclosure, the battery stack may further include a heat exchanger. The heat exchanger is configured to contact at least one of a plurality of battery cells in the stacking direction and to exchange heat with the battery cell. The covering portion may further include an insertion portion. The insertion portion is configured to allow the insertion of a pipe for supplying a heat exchange medium to the heat exchanger or for discharging a heat exchange medium from the heat exchanger. At least two plate-like portions may include plate-like portions provided with the insertion portions.

[0017] This configuration makes it easier to further reduce the amount of expansion of the battery stack in the stacking direction.

[0018] Another aspect of the present disclosure is a battery pack comprising at least one battery module and a case. The battery module has the aforementioned clamping members and a battery stack. The battery stack is clamped by a first end plate and a second end plate. The case houses at least one battery module.

[0019] This configuration allows for increased case rigidity.

[0020] In another aspect of the present disclosure, at least one battery module may include a first battery module and a second battery module. The first and second battery modules may be arranged side by side in the stacking direction such that the second end plate of the first battery module and the first end plate of the second battery module face each other with a gap between them. The gap may be less than the sum of the maximum deformation of the first end plate in the stacking direction and the maximum deformation of the second end plate in the stacking direction due to expansion of the battery stack.

[0021] This configuration makes it possible to reduce the amount of deformation of the first and second end plates due to the expansion of the battery stack. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0022] [Figure 1]It is a schematic diagram showing the state where the battery pack is mounted on the vehicle. [Figure 2] It is a schematic top view of the battery pack. [Figure 3] It is an enlarged view of the range III in FIG. 2. [Figure 4] It is a view seen from the direction of arrow IV in FIG. 2. [Figure 5] It is a cross-sectional view taken along the line V-V in FIG. 2. [Figure 6] It is a perspective view of the battery pack. [Figure 7] FIG. 7A is a top view of the battery pack. FIG. 7B is a front view of the battery pack. [Figure 8] It is a right side view of the battery pack. [Figure 9] It is a perspective view of the first end plate. [Figure 10] FIG. 10A is a top view of the first end plate. FIG. 10B is a front view of the first end plate. [Figure 11] FIG. 11A is a left side view of the first end plate. FIG. 11B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line XIB-XIB in FIG. 10A. [Figure 12] It is a figure for explaining the expansion of the battery cell. [Figure 13] It is a figure for explaining the operation of the battery pack. [Figure 14] FIGS. 14A to 14D are schematic cross-sectional views showing modified examples of the covering portion. [Figure 15] FIGS. 15A and 15B are schematic diagrams showing an example of a battery pack including a joining member.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0023] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0024] [1. Configuration] As shown in Figure 1, the battery pack 1 is mounted on the electric vehicle V. The electric vehicle V is an automobile that runs by using the electrical energy stored in the battery cell 311 (described later) to drive a power source such as a motor. The electric vehicle V includes electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid vehicles, and hybrid vehicles. The battery pack 1 may be mounted on the underside of the body parts of the electric vehicle V, for example, below the floor panel of the electric vehicle V. For example, the battery pack 1 may be mounted on the side sill of the electric vehicle V.

[0025] As shown in Figure 2, the battery pack 1 comprises a case 2, a plurality of battery modules 3, a supply pipe 5A, and a discharge pipe 5B. Figure 2 schematically shows the battery pack 1 with the case 2 transparent. Also, Figure 2 omits the illustration of the bracket 21, which will be described later.

[0026] Case 2 is a component with an internal space. The external shape of Case 2 is, for example, roughly rectangular. As shown in Figure 3, multiple brackets 21 are attached to the inner surface of Case 2. Specifically, two brackets 21 are attached to the inner surface of Case 2 for each battery module 3. These two brackets 21 are positioned to sandwich the corresponding battery module 3 in the longitudinal direction Y, which will be described later.

[0027] As shown in Figure 4, each bracket 21 is a so-called L-shaped bracket. Each bracket 21 has a first plate portion 211 and a second plate portion 212. The first plate portion 211 and the second plate portion 212 are plate-shaped parts. For example, the first plate portion 211 and the second plate portion 212 are flat plates. The first plate portion 211 is fixed to the inner surface of the case 2. The second plate portion 212 extends from the edge of the first plate portion 211 in a direction intersecting the first plate portion 211 (for example, a perpendicular direction). The second plate portion 212 is provided with a fixed portion 213. The fixed portion 213 is the part to which the fixing portion 422, which will be described later, is fixed. For example, the fixed portion 213 has a hole through which a fastening member 6 such as a bolt can be inserted.

[0028] As shown in Figure 6, each battery module 3 includes a battery stack 31, a clamping member 32, and a plurality of restraining members 33.

[0029] The battery stack 31 has a plurality of battery cells 311 and a plurality of heat exchangers 312. As shown in Figures 6, 7A and 8, the battery stack 31 of this embodiment has 12 battery cells 311 and 4 heat exchangers 312.

[0030] Each battery cell 311 is a rechargeable battery. Each battery cell 311 has a flattened shape. A flattened shape refers to a shape in which the dimensions in the thickness direction are smaller than the dimensions in the length direction and width direction. Each battery cell 311 has two main surfaces that face each other in the thickness direction. For example, the two main surfaces of each battery cell 311 are planar.

[0031] As shown in Figure 6, at least some of the multiple battery cells 311 are arranged in the stacking direction X. The stacking direction X is a direction along a straight line. The thickness direction of each battery cell 311 coincides with the stacking direction X. For example, some of the multiple battery cells 311 may be arranged in the stacking direction X and some in the longitudinal direction Y. In other words, multiple battery cells 311 may be arranged in multiples each in the stacking direction X and the longitudinal direction Y. The longitudinal direction Y is a direction perpendicular to the stacking direction X. In this embodiment, 12 battery cells 311 are arranged in groups of 3 in the stacking direction X and 4 in each longitudinal direction Y. Adjacent battery cells 311 in the stacking direction X have their main faces facing each other. The multiple battery cells 311 are connected to each other in series or in parallel.

[0032] Each heat exchanger 312 has a flattened shape. In the stacking direction X, the multiple heat exchangers 312 are arranged alternately with the multiple battery cells 311. The thickness direction of each heat exchanger 312 coincides with the stacking direction X. As shown in Figure 8, two of the multiple heat exchangers 312 are arranged on both outer sides of the multiple battery cells 311 in the stacking direction X. That is, the multiple heat exchangers 312 include heat exchangers 312 with battery cells 311 arranged on both sides of themselves in the stacking direction X, and heat exchangers 312 with battery cells 311 arranged on only one side of themselves in the stacking direction X. In the former case, both sides of the heat exchanger 312 are in contact with the main surface of the battery cell 311. In the latter case, only one side in the stacking direction X is in contact with the main surface of the battery cell 311. As an example, both sides of each heat exchanger 312 in the stacking direction X are planar.

[0033] As shown in Figure 7A, the length of each heat exchanger 312 in the longitudinal direction Y is greater than the sum of the lengths of the multiple battery cells 311 arranged in the longitudinal direction Y. The ends of each heat exchanger 312 in the longitudinal direction Y extend outward beyond the multiple battery cells 311.

[0034] A supply section 3121 is provided at one end of each heat exchanger 312 in the longitudinal direction Y. The supply section 3121 is in communication with a tubular supply pipe 5A. The axial direction of the supply pipe 5A coincides with the stacking direction X. As shown by arrow F1 in Figure 2, the heat exchange medium flows inside the supply pipe 5A. Since the axial direction of the supply pipe 5A coincides with the stacking direction X, the heat exchange medium flows through the supply pipe 5A in the stacking direction X.

[0035] As shown in Figure 7A, each heat exchanger 312 is provided with a discharge section 3122 at the other end in the longitudinal direction Y (i.e., the end opposite to the supply section 3121). The discharge section 3122 is connected to a tubular discharge pipe 5B. The axial direction of the discharge pipe 5B coincides with the stacking direction X. As shown by arrow F3 in Figure 2, the heat exchange medium flows inside the discharge pipe 5B. The direction in which the heat exchange medium flows inside the discharge pipe 5B is opposite to the direction in which the heat exchange medium flows inside the supply pipe 5A.

[0036] A flow path (not shown) is formed inside each heat exchanger 312. The flow path of each heat exchanger 312 is continuous from the supply section 3121 to the discharge section 3122, as shown in Figure 7A. Heat exchange medium is supplied to the flow path of each heat exchanger 312 from the supply pipe 5A via the supply section 3121. In other words, the supply pipe 5A is the piping for supplying heat exchange medium to each heat exchanger 312. The heat exchange medium supplied from the supply pipe 5A to each heat exchanger 312 flows through the flow path of each heat exchanger 312, as shown by the arrow F2 in Figure 2. The direction in which the heat exchange medium flows through the flow path of each heat exchanger 312 coincides with the longitudinal direction Y. The heat exchange medium that has passed through the flow path of each heat exchanger 312 is discharged to the discharge pipe 5B via the discharge section 3122, as shown in Figure 7A. In other words, the discharge pipe 5B is the piping for discharging the heat exchange medium from each heat exchanger 312.

[0037] Each heat exchanger 312 is configured to exchange heat with the battery cell 311 in contact with it by means of a heat exchange medium flowing through the flow path. Here, the heat exchange medium may be, for example, a refrigerant or a heat transfer medium. In other words, each heat exchanger 312 may be configured to cool the battery cell 311 in contact with it, or to heat it.

[0038] As shown in Figure 6, the clamping member 32 is a member for clamping the battery stack 31. The clamping member 32 has a first end plate 40A and a second end plate 40B. The first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B are arranged to clamp the battery stack 31 in the stacking direction X. The first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B are configured to clamp the battery stack 31 in the stacking direction X. Since the first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B are a pair of members configured symmetrically with respect to each other, the first end plate 40A will be described in detail below.

[0039] As shown in Figure 9, the first end plate 40A has a covering portion 41, a first flange portion 42A, and a second flange portion 42B.

[0040] The covering portion 41 is a plate-shaped part. The covering portion 41 has an elongated shape extending in the longitudinal direction Y. The thickness direction of the covering portion 41 coincides with the stacking direction X. As shown in Figure 10B, the covering portion 41 is, for example, rectangular when viewed from the stacking direction X. As shown in Figure 6, the covering portion 41 is configured to cover the battery stack 31 from the stacking direction X. In other words, as shown in Figure 7B, the covering portion 41 is larger than the battery stack 31 when viewed from the stacking direction X. The covering portion 41 has a first plate-shaped portion 411A, a second plate-shaped portion 411B, and a bead portion 412.

[0041] As shown in Figure 9, the first plate-like portion 411A and the second plate-like portion 411B are plate-like parts. For example, the first plate-like portion 411A and the second plate-like portion 411B are flat plates. The first plate-like portion 411A and the second plate-like portion 411B extend in the longitudinal direction Y. The dimension of the first plate-like portion 411A in the longitudinal direction Y is equal to the dimension of the second plate-like portion 411B in the longitudinal direction Y. The first plate-like portion 411A and the second plate-like portion 411B are arranged with the bead portion 412 in between in the short direction Z. The short direction Z is perpendicular to both the lamination direction X and the longitudinal direction Y.

[0042] The bead portion 412 is a plate-like portion. The bead portion 412 extends in the longitudinal direction Y. The dimensions of the bead portion 412 in the longitudinal direction Y are equal to the dimensions of the first plate-like portion 411A and the second plate-like portion 411B in the longitudinal direction Y. The bead portion 412 is curved so as to bulge outwards toward the battery stack 31 or the opposite side compared to the first plate-like portion 411A and the second plate-like portion 411B. As shown in Figure 6, the bead portion 412 in this embodiment bulges outwards toward the battery stack 31 compared to the first plate-like portion 411A and the second plate-like portion 411B.

[0043] As shown in Figures 11A and 11B, the bead portion 412 has a top portion 4121, a first side portion 4122A, and a second side portion 4122B. The top portion 4121, the first side portion 4122A, and the second side portion 4122B are all plate-shaped. The top portion 4121 constitutes the leading edge surface in the bulging direction of the bead portion 412, i.e., the top surface. For example, the top surface is planar. The first side portion 4122A connects the top portion 4121 and the first plate-shaped portion 411A. The second side portion 4122B connects the top portion 4121 and the second plate-shaped portion 411B.

[0044] As can be seen from the comparison between the covering portion 41 of this embodiment and the modified covering portions 41A and 41B shown in Figures 14A and 14B, the maximum height H of the bead portion 412 is not particularly limited. The maximum height H of the bead portion 412 is the maximum dimension from the surface of the first plate-like portion 411A to the top surface of the bead portion 412 in the lamination direction X. The maximum height H of the bead portion 412 may be set, for example, according to the desired rigidity. Also, as can be seen from the comparison between the covering portion 41 of this embodiment and the modified covering portion 41C shown in Figure 14C, the angle θa between the top portion 4121 and the first side portion 4122A, and the angle θb between the top portion 4121 and the second side portion 4122B are not particularly limited. These angles θa and θb may be set, for example, according to the desired rigidity. These angles θa and θb may be the same, or they may be different from each other.

[0045] As shown in Figure 6, the covering portion 41 is provided with a first insertion portion 413A and a second insertion portion 413B. The first insertion portion 413A is a portion configured to allow the supply pipe 5A to be inserted. For example, the first insertion portion 413A has a hole through which the supply pipe 5A can be inserted. The second insertion portion 413B is a portion configured to allow the discharge pipe 5B to be inserted. For example, the second insertion portion 413B has a hole through which the discharge pipe 5B can be inserted.

[0046] As shown in Figure 10B, the first insertion portion 413A is provided at one end of the covering portion 41 in the longitudinal direction Y. The second insertion portion 413B is provided at the other end of the covering portion 41 in the longitudinal direction Y (i.e., the end opposite to the first insertion portion 413A). More specifically, the first insertion portion 413A is provided at one end of the first plate-like portion 411A in the longitudinal direction Y. The second insertion portion 413B is provided at the other end of the first plate-like portion 411A in the longitudinal direction Y.

[0047] The dimensions of the first plate-like portion 411A in the short direction Z are constant, except for the portions where the first insertion portion 413A and the second insertion portion 413B are provided, i.e., both ends in the longitudinal direction Y. The dimensions of the first plate-like portion 411A in the short direction Z are larger at both ends in the longitudinal direction Y than at the intermediate portion sandwiched between them.

[0048] The dimensions of the bead portion 412 in the short direction Z are constant, except for both ends in the long direction Y. The dimensions of the ends of the bead portion 412 in the long direction Y are smaller in the short direction Z than the intermediate portion sandwiched between them.

[0049] The dimensions of the second plate-like portion 411B in the short direction Z are constant.

[0050] As shown in Figure 9, the first flange portion 42A and the second flange portion 42B are plate-shaped parts. For example, the first flange portion 42A and the second flange portion 42B are flat plates. As shown in Figure 6, the first flange portion 42A protrudes toward the battery stack 31 from the edge of the first plate-shaped portion 411A opposite to the bead portion 412. The second flange portion 42B protrudes toward the battery stack 31 from the edge of the second plate-shaped portion 411B opposite to the bead portion 412. The first flange portion 42A and the second flange portion 42B face each other. For example, the first flange portion 42A and the second flange portion 42B are parallel to each other.

[0051] As shown in Figures 11A and 11B, the first flange portion 42A and the second flange portion 42B extend beyond the top surface of the bead portion 412 toward the battery stack 31. The extent to which the first flange portion 42A and the second flange portion 42B extend beyond the top surface of the bead portion 412 toward the battery stack 31 is not particularly limited. In other words, the dimensions of the first flange portion 42A and the second flange portion 42B in the stacking direction X can be any dimension larger than the dimensions of the bead portion 412 in the stacking direction X. For example, the dimensions of the first flange portion 42A and the second flange portion 42B in the stacking direction X may be set according to the desired rigidity.

[0052] As shown in Figure 9, the first flange portion 42A and the second flange portion 42B are continuous from one end (i.e., one edge) to the other end (i.e., the other edge) of the covering portion 41 in the longitudinal direction Y. The dimensions of the first flange portion 42A and the second flange portion 42B in the longitudinal direction Y are equal to the dimensions of the covering portion 41 in the longitudinal direction Y. As shown in Figure 10A, the second flange portion 42B has a plurality (four in this embodiment) engaging portion 421 and two fixing portion 422. Although not shown, the first flange portion 42A has a plurality (four in this embodiment) engaging portion 421.

[0053] As shown in Figure 6, each engaging portion 421 is configured to engage with the corresponding restraining member 33. As will be described later, if each restraining member 33 has a projection, each engaging portion 421 has a hole into which the projection of the corresponding restraining member 33 can be fitted, as shown in Figure 9. When the projection of the corresponding restraining member 33 is fitted into the hole, each engaging portion 421 engages with the corresponding restraining member 33.

[0054] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, each fixing portion 422 is a part configured to be fixed to the inner surface of the case 2. Specifically, each fixing portion 422 is configured to be fixed to the inner surface of the case 2 via the bracket 21 described above. For example, each fixing portion 422 has a hole through which a fastening member 6 can be inserted. In this case, each fixing portion 422 is fastened to the inner surface of the case 2 via the bracket 21 by the fastening member 6 fastening each fixing portion 422 to the fixed portion 213 of the corresponding bracket 21.

[0055] As shown in Figure 9, the two fixing parts 422 are located at both ends of the second flange portion 42B in the longitudinal direction Y. This can also be rephrased as the two fixing parts 422 being formed by the two ends of the second flange portion 42B in the longitudinal direction Y. The two ends of the second flange portion 42B in the longitudinal direction Y are the portions that protrude from the two ends of the covering portion 41 in the longitudinal direction Y. Therefore, it can also be rephrased as the two fixing parts 422 being provided at both ends of the covering portion 41 in the longitudinal direction Y.

[0056] As described in detail above, the first end plate 40A has a covering portion 41, a first flange portion 42A, and a second flange portion 42B. As shown in Figure 6, the second end plate 40B is configured symmetrically to the first end plate 40A. The second end plate 40B also has a covering portion 41, a first flange portion 42A, and a second flange portion 42B.

[0057] Each restraining member 33 is configured to connect the first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B. Each restraining member 33 extends from the first end plate 40A to the second end plate 40B. Each restraining member 33 is plate-shaped (flat in this embodiment). As shown in Figures 6 and 7B, multiple restraining members 33 are arranged in the longitudinal direction Y and the short direction Z, respectively. In this embodiment, eight restraining members 33 are arranged in groups of four in the longitudinal direction Y and two in the short direction Z.

[0058] As an example, each restraining member 33 is provided with projections (not shown) at positions facing the first end plate 40A and positions facing the second end plate 40B. These projections are fitted into holes formed by the engaging portions 421 of the first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B, respectively, thereby connecting the first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B.

[0059] As shown in Figure 8, with each restraining member 33 connected to the first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B, the first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B are sandwiching the battery stack 31. That is, the first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B are pressing against the battery stack 31. In this embodiment, both end faces of the battery stack 31 in the stacking direction X are composed of heat exchangers 312. Therefore, the first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B in this embodiment are pressing against the heat exchangers 312. Specifically, the bead portions 412 of the first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B are pressing against the heat exchangers 312. The top surface of the bead portion 412 corresponds to the surface configured to contact the battery stack 31.

[0060] Returning to Figure 2, in the battery pack 1, multiple battery modules 3 are arranged in a line in the stacking direction X. All of the multiple battery modules 3 are arranged in the same orientation. Therefore, the second end plate 40B of each of the multiple battery modules 3, except for the battery module 3 at the very end, faces the first end plate 40A of the adjacent battery module 3. As shown in Figure 5, a gap D is provided between the battery modules 3. In other words, the gap D between the battery modules 3 is the gap D between the second end plate 40B of one battery module 3 and the first end plate 40A of the battery module 3 adjacent to that battery module 3.

[0061] Here, as shown by the white arrows in Figure 12, each battery cell 311 in each battery module 3 may expand in the stacking direction X. Factors that cause each battery cell 311 to expand include heat generated during charging and discharging, and gas generation within each battery cell 311 due to degradation. When each battery cell 311 expands in the stacking direction X, the entire battery stack 31 will also expand in the stacking direction X. Consequently, the battery stack 31 presses against the first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B, as shown by the black arrows in Figure 12. As a result, the first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B may deform to bulge away from the battery module 3.

[0062] Hereinafter, the maximum deformation amount ΔLa of the first end plate 40A in the stacking direction X due to the expansion of the battery stack 31 will simply be referred to as the maximum deformation amount ΔLa of the first end plate 40A. Similarly, the maximum deformation amount ΔLb of the second end plate 40B in the stacking direction X due to the expansion of the battery stack 31 will simply be referred to as the maximum deformation amount ΔLb of the second end plate 40B. The maximum deformation amount ΔLa of the first end plate 40A is the absolute value of the difference between the dimension of the first end plate 40A in the stacking direction X when the battery stack 31 is not expanded and the dimension of the first end plate 40A in the stacking direction X when the battery stack 31 is expanded to its maximum extent. The maximum deformation amount ΔLb of the second end plate 40B is defined similarly to the maximum deformation amount ΔLa of the first end plate 40A. The maximum deformation amount ΔLa of the first end plate 40A and the maximum deformation amount ΔLb of the second end plate 40B may be determined experimentally, for example, or computationally using computer simulation.

[0063] In battery pack 1, taking into account that the battery stack 31 may expand, the spacing D between the battery modules 3 shown in Figure 5 is designed to be smaller than the sum of the maximum deformation ΔLa of the first end plate 40A and the maximum deformation ΔLb of the second end plate 40B (ΔLa + ΔLb). In other words, the multiple battery modules 3 are arranged such that D < ΔLa + ΔLb.

[0064] For example, the spacing D between battery modules 3 may be smaller than at least one of the maximum deformation ΔLa of the first end plate 40A and the maximum deformation ΔLb of the second end plate 40B. In other words, multiple battery modules 3 may be arranged to satisfy at least one of D < ΔLa and D < ΔLb.

[0065] As mentioned above, the battery pack 1 is mounted on the electric vehicle V shown in Figure 1. The orientation of the battery pack 1 in this case is not particularly limited. For example, the battery pack 1 may be mounted on the electric vehicle V such that the stacking direction X coincides with the vehicle's front-rear direction and the longitudinal direction Y coincides with the vehicle's left-right direction, as shown in Figure 1. Alternatively, the battery pack 1 may be mounted on the electric vehicle V such that the longitudinal direction Y coincides with the vehicle's front-rear direction and the stacking direction X coincides with the vehicle's left-right direction.

[0066] [2. Effects] According to the embodiments described in detail above, the following effects can be obtained.

[0067] (2a) The clamping member 32 comprises a first end plate 40A and a second end plate 40B. The first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B each have a covering portion 41 and two fixing portions 422. The two fixing portions 422 are configured to be fixed to the inner surface of the case 2. The two fixing portions 422 are provided at both ends of the covering portion 41 in the longitudinal direction Y.

[0068] With this configuration, the clamping member 32 can function as a so-called beam of the case 2 by being fixed to the case 2 by the two fixing parts 422. In other words, the case 2 can be reinforced by the clamping member 32. Therefore, the rigidity of the case 2 can be increased.

[0069] (2b) In the clamping member 32, the first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B further have a first flange portion 42A and a second flange portion 42B. With this configuration, the rigidity of the first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B can be increased. Consequently, the rigidity of the clamping member 32 can be increased. Since the clamping member 32 is fixed to the case 2 by two fixing portions 422, the case 2 can be further reinforced. Therefore, the rigidity of the case 2 can be further increased.

[0070] (2c) The first flange portion 42A and the second flange portion 42B extend from one end to the other in the longitudinal direction Y of the covering portion 41. With this configuration, the rigidity of the first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B can be further increased. Consequently, the rigidity of the clamping member 32 can be further increased. Since the clamping member 32 is fixed to the case 2 by two fixing portions 422, the case 2 can be further reinforced. Therefore, the rigidity of the case 2 can be further increased.

[0071] (2d) In particular, in this embodiment, both ends of the first flange portion 42A and the second flange portion 42B in the longitudinal direction Y constitute two fixing portions 422. With this configuration, the two fixing portions 422 and the first flange portion 42A and the second flange portion 42B can be formed integrally. Therefore, the effect of (2c) above can be obtained without increasing the number of steps during the manufacturing of the clamping member 32.

[0072] (2e) The first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B further have a plurality of engaging portions 421. Each engaging portion 421 is configured to engage with a corresponding restraining member 33.

[0073] With this configuration, the first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B can be connected by each engaging portion 421 engaging with the corresponding restraining member 33. This further increases the rigidity of the first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B. Consequently, the rigidity of the clamping member 32 can be further increased. Since the clamping member 32 is attached to the case 2 by two fixing portions 422, the case 2 can be further reinforced. Therefore, the rigidity of the case 2 can be further increased.

[0074] (2f) The covering portion 41 has a first plate-like portion 411A, a second plate-like portion 411B, and a bead portion 412. The bead portion 412 is sandwiched between the first plate-like portion 411A and the second plate-like portion 411B in the short direction Z. As an example, the bead portion 412 is curved so as to bulge out toward the battery stack 31 side than the first plate-like portion 411A and the second plate-like portion 411B.

[0075] With this configuration, the bead portion 412 makes it easier to press the central part of the battery stack 31 in the short direction Z. This central part of the battery stack 31 is where the amount of expansion in the stacking direction X tends to be greatest when the battery stack 31 expands. Therefore, by making it easier for the central part of the battery stack 31 to be pressed by the bead portion 412, it is possible to reduce the amount of expansion of the battery stack 31 in the stacking direction X.

[0076] The amount of expansion of the battery stack 31 in the stacking direction X is the absolute difference between the dimension of the battery stack 31 in the stacking direction X when the battery stack 31 is not expanded and the dimension of the battery stack 31 in the stacking direction X when the battery stack 31 is expanded.

[0077] (2g) In particular, in this embodiment, both end faces of the battery stack 31 in the stacking direction X are planar. The top surface of the bead portion 412 is also planar. With this configuration, it is possible to increase the contact area between the battery stack 31 and the bead portion 412. Therefore, the bead portion 412 can more easily press the central part of the battery stack 31 in the short direction Z. As a result, it is possible to further reduce the amount of expansion of the battery stack 31 in the stacking direction X.

[0078] (2h) The battery stack 31 has multiple battery cells 311 and multiple heat exchangers 312. The multiple battery cells 311 and the multiple heat exchangers 312 are arranged side by side in the stacking direction X. Specifically, the multiple battery cells 311 and the multiple heat exchangers 312 are arranged alternately in the stacking direction X.

[0079] With this configuration, if at least one battery cell 311 attempts to expand, the heat exchanger 312 in contact with the battery cell 311 can press the battery cell 311 in the stacking direction X. Therefore, the amount of bulging of the battery cell 311 in the stacking direction X can be further reduced. As a result, the amount of expansion of the battery stack 31 in the stacking direction X can be further reduced.

[0080] The amount of bulging of the battery cell 311 in the stacking direction X is defined in the same way as the amount of expansion of the battery stack 31 in the stacking direction X.

[0081] (2i) In each of the first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B, the covering portion 41 has a first insertion portion 413A and a second insertion portion 413B. The first insertion portion 413A is configured to allow the supply pipe 5A to be inserted. The second insertion portion 413B is configured to allow the discharge pipe 5B to be inserted.

[0082] With this configuration, the position of the supply pipe 5A can be easily maintained by the first insertion part 413A. The position of the discharge pipe 5B can be easily maintained by the second insertion part 413B. As a result, the positions of multiple heat exchangers 312 can be easily maintained because the supply pipe 5A and the discharge pipe 5B are connected to multiple heat exchangers 312. Therefore, the effect of (2h) above can be obtained even more easily.

[0083] (2j) As mentioned above, the battery stack 31 may expand. According to the inventors' diligent research, there are cases in which the battery stack 31 expands in only one of the multiple battery modules 3, and cases in which the battery stack 31 expands in some of the multiple battery modules 3, but the latter is more common in the battery pack 1. For example, the battery stack 31 of each adjacent battery module 3 may expand.

[0084] Therefore, in the battery pack 1, the spacing D between multiple battery modules 3 is designed to be smaller than the sum of the maximum deformation amount ΔLa of the first end plate 40A and the maximum deformation amount ΔLb of the second end plate 40B (ΔLa + ΔLb). With this configuration, as shown in Figure 13, when the first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B of adjacent battery modules 3 deform to bulge out due to the expansion of the battery stack 31, the first end plate 40A or the second end plate 40B can be brought into contact with the second end plate 40B or the first end plate 40A of the adjacent battery module 3 before the first end plate 40A or the second end plate 40B deforms to its maximum deformation amount ΔLa, ΔLb. Specifically, the first plate-shaped portions 411A and the second plate-shaped portions 411B of adjacent battery modules 3 can be brought into contact with each other. If the battery stack 31 attempts to expand further, the first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B, which are in contact with each other, press against each other, thereby suppressing further deformation. Therefore, the amount of deformation of the first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B due to the expansion of the battery stack 31 can be reduced.

[0085] (2k) As an example, the distance D between two battery modules 3 is smaller than at least one of the maximum deformation amount ΔLa of the first end plate 40A and the maximum deformation amount ΔLb of the second end plate 40B. With such a configuration, even if the battery stack 31 of one of two adjacent battery modules 3 expands, it is possible to make it easier for the first end plate 40A or the second end plate 40B of that battery module 3 to come into contact with the second end plate 40B or the first end plate 40A of the adjacent battery module 3 before the first end plate 40A or the second end plate 40B of that battery module 3 deforms to its maximum deformation amount ΔLa,ΔLb. Therefore, even if the battery stack 31 of one of two adjacent battery modules 3 expands, it is possible to reduce the deformation amount of the first end plate 40A or the second end plate 40B for the same reasons as in (2j) above.

[0086] (2l) In particular, in this embodiment, the first plate-shaped portion 411A and the second plate-shaped portion 411B are planar. With this configuration, when the battery stack 31 expands, it is possible to increase the contact area between the first plate-shaped portions 411A and the second plate-shaped portions 411B of adjacent battery modules 3. Therefore, when the first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B of adjacent battery modules 3 come into contact, the contacting first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B can be pressed against each other more easily. Therefore, the amount of deformation of the first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B due to the expansion of the battery stack 31 can be further reduced.

[0087] (2m) As an example, the battery pack 1 is attached to the body of the electric vehicle V. When the battery pack 1 is attached to the body so that the stacking direction X coincides with the vehicle's front-rear direction and the longitudinal direction Y coincides with the vehicle's left-right direction, the first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B will be oriented to extend in the vehicle's left-right direction. Therefore, it may be possible to increase the rigidity of the body part in the vehicle's left-right direction by the first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B. When the battery pack 1 is attached to the body so that the longitudinal direction Y coincides with the vehicle's front-rear direction and the stacking direction X coincides with the vehicle's left-right direction, the first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B will be oriented to extend in the vehicle's front-rear direction. Therefore, it may be possible to increase the rigidity of the body part in the vehicle's front-rear direction by the first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B.

[0088] [3. Other Embodiments] While embodiments of this disclosure have been described above, it goes without saying that this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above and can take various forms.

[0089] (3a) In the first end plate 40A and second end plate 40B of the above embodiment, the second flange portion 42B has two fixing portions 422. That is, in the first end plate 40A and second end plate 40B of the above embodiment, the second flange portion 42B is fixed to the inner surface of the case 2. However, for example, the first flange portion may be fixed to the case 2 instead of the second flange portion, or both the first flange portion and the second flange portion may be fixed to the case 2. In other words, for example, the second flange portion may have two fixing portions 422 instead of the first flange portion, or each of the first flange portion and the second flange portion may have two fixing portions 422.

[0090] (3b) In the above embodiment, as an example of a configuration in which two fixing portions 422 are provided at both ends of the covering portion 41 in the longitudinal direction Y, the two ends of the second flange portion 42B in the longitudinal direction Y constitute the two fixing portions 422. Other examples include a configuration in which both ends of the first flange portion in the longitudinal direction Y constitute the two fixing portions 422, or a configuration in which both ends of the covering portion 41 in the longitudinal direction Y constitute the two fixing portions 422 themselves.

[0091] (3c) In the above embodiment, the first end plate 40A has two fixing portions 422. Each fixing portion 422 is fixed to the inner surface of the case 2 via a bracket 21. However, the means by which the first end plate is fixed to the inner surface of the case 2 are not particularly limited.

[0092] For example, as shown in Figure 15A, the first end plate 40C may have a fixing portion 422A in addition to or instead of the fixing portion 422. The fixing portion 422A is a portion configured to be fixable to the inner surface of the case 2 via an adhesive layer 22 formed by an adhesive. The adhesive layer 22 joins the fixing portion 422A to the inner surface of the case 2.

[0093] For example, as shown in Figure 15B, the first end plate 40D may have a fixing portion 422B in addition to or instead of the fixing portion 422. The fixing portion 422B is a portion configured to be fixed to the inner surface of the case 2 via a clip 23. The clip 23 is made of, for example, resin and has a plate-like portion 231 and at least one projection 232. The plate-like portion 231 is a plate-like portion fixed to the inner surface of the case 2. The at least one projection 232 is a portion that protrudes from the plate-like portion 231. The fixing portion 422B is provided in correspondence with at least one projection 232. The fixing portion 422B has a hole into which the corresponding projection 232 can be fitted. When the corresponding projection 232 is fitted into the hole, the fixing portion 422B is fixed to the inner surface of the case 2 via the clip 23.

[0094] Similarly, the second end plate may also be provided with fixing parts 422A and 422B in addition to or instead of fixing part 422.

[0095] For example, if fixing parts 422A and 422B are provided in addition to fixing part 422, the area to which the first end plate and the second end plate are fixed to the inner surface of the case 2 can be increased. Therefore, the case 2 can be further reinforced.

[0096] For example, if fixing parts 422A and 422B are provided in place of fixing part 422, fixing parts 422A and 422B are provided at least at the positions where fixing part 422 in the above-described embodiment would be provided, that is, at both ends in the longitudinal direction Y of the covering part 41. With such a configuration, at least the same effects as in (2a) above can be obtained.

[0097] (3d) In the above embodiment, both the first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B have fixing portions 422. However, the fixing portion may be provided only on the first end plate, for example, of the first and second end plates. In other words, in the battery pack, only the first end plate, for example, of the first and second end plates may be fixed to the inner surface of the case. Even in such a configuration, the case can be reinforced by the first end plate.

[0098] (3e) In the above embodiment, the first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B have two flange portions 42A and 42B. However, the number of flange portions that the first end plate and the second end plate have is not particularly limited. For example, the first end plate or the second end plate may have only one flange portion. Also, for example, the first end plate and the second end plate do not necessarily have flange portions.

[0099] (3f) In the above embodiment, the covering portion 41 of the first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B each has a first plate-shaped portion 411A, a second plate-shaped portion 411B, and a bead portion 412. As described in the above embodiment, the bead portion 412 is curved so as to bulge outwards from the first plate-shaped portion 411A and the second plate-shaped portion 411B toward the battery stack 31 or toward the opposite side. That is, the bead portion 412 may bulge outwards toward the battery stack 31 than the first plate-shaped portion 411A and the second plate-shaped portion 411B as in the above embodiment, or it may be curved so as to bulge outwards toward the opposite side of the battery stack 31 than the first plate-shaped portion 411A and the second plate-shaped portion 411B. In the latter case, the first plate-shaped portion 411A and the second plate-shaped portion 411B, rather than the bead portion 412, contact the battery stack 31. Furthermore, if the battery stack 31 expands and the first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B deform in such a way that they bulge out, the bead portions 412 of adjacent battery modules 3 may press against each other.

[0100] (3g) In the above embodiment, the covering portion 41 of the first end plate 40A and the second end plate 40B each has two plate-like portions 411A, 411B and one bead portion 412. However, the number of plate-like portions and bead portions of the covering portion is not particularly limited and may be set according to the desired rigidity, for example. For example, the covering portion may have three or more plate-like portions and two or more bead portions.

[0101] As a specific example, Figure 14D shows a covering portion 41D. The covering portion 41D has a first plate-like portion 411A, a second plate-like portion 411B, a third plate-like portion 411C, a first bead portion 412A, and a second bead portion 412B. These are arranged in the order of first plate-like portion 411A, first bead portion 412A, second plate-like portion 411B, second bead portion 412B, and third plate-like portion 411C in the short-side direction Z. That is, the first plate-like portion 411A and the second plate-like portion 411B are arranged sandwiching the first bead portion 412A in the short-side direction Z. Also, the second plate-like portion 411B and the third plate-like portion 411C are arranged sandwiching the second bead portion 412B in the short-side direction Z. The first bead portion 421A and the second bead portion 421B bulge outward toward the battery stack 31 compared to the first plate-like portion 411A, the second plate-like portion 411B, and the third plate-like portion 411C. Even with this configuration, the same effects as in the above embodiment can be obtained.

[0102] (3h) In the above embodiment, the covering portion 41 of the first end plate 40A and the covering portion 41 of the second end plate 40B each have a first plate-like portion 411A, a second plate-like portion 411B, and a bead portion 412. However, the covering portion of the second end plate, for example, does not necessarily have to have a bead portion formed on it. In other words, the covering portion of the second end plate, for example, may be a simple plate-like portion without a bead portion formed on it.

[0103] (3i) In the above embodiment, the battery stack 31 has a plurality of heat exchangers 312. The battery stack may have, for example, at least one insulating material in addition to or instead of the plurality of heat exchangers 312. The insulating material is a member that has thermal insulation properties. Alternatively, for example, the battery stack may have at least one elastic body in addition to or instead of the plurality of heat exchangers 312. The elastic body is a member that has elasticity. In these cases, at least one insulating material or elastic body is placed, for example, between the battery cells 311.

[0104] (3j) For example, in a battery stack, other components such as heat exchangers or insulating materials do not need to be placed between the battery cells 311. In other words, the battery stack may consist of only a number of battery cells arranged in a row. If the battery stack does not have a heat exchanger, for example, the first end plate and the second end plate do not need to have insertion portions.

[0105] (3k) In the above embodiment, the battery pack 1 has a plurality of battery modules 3. However, the number of battery modules is not particularly limited. For example, the battery pack may have only one battery module.

[0106] (3l) The functions of one component in the above embodiment may be distributed among multiple components, or the functions of multiple components may be integrated into one component. Also, some parts of the configuration of the above embodiment may be omitted. Also, at least some parts of the configuration of the above embodiment may be added to, replaced with, or otherwise adapted to the configuration of other above embodiments.

[0107] [Technical concepts disclosed in this specification] [Item 1] A clamping member, A battery stack having a plurality of battery cells arranged in a predetermined stacking direction is provided with a first end plate and a second end plate configured to sandwich the battery stack in the stacking direction, Of the first end plate and the second end plate, at least the first end plate is A covering portion having an elongated shape extending in the longitudinal direction which is perpendicular to the stacking direction, and configured to cover the battery stack from the stacking direction, Two fixing parts are configured to be fixable to the inner surface of the case in which the battery stack and the clamping member are housed, It has, The covering portion has at least two plate-like portions and at least one bead portion, The at least two plate-like portions are plate-like portions arranged in the short-side direction, which is perpendicular to both the lamination direction and the longitudinal direction, sandwiching the at least one bead portion. The at least one bead portion is a plate-like portion that extends in the longitudinal direction, curving to bulge outward toward the battery stack or the opposite side from the at least two plate-like portions. The two fixing parts are clamping members provided at both ends of the covering part in the longitudinal direction.

[0108] [Item 2] The clamping member described in item 1, Of the first end plate and the second end plate, at least the first end plate further has a flange portion that extends toward the battery stack side from the edge of the covering portion in the short direction, The flange portion is a clamping member that extends continuously from one end to the other in the longitudinal direction of the covering portion.

[0109] [Item 3] The clamping member described in item 2, The two fixing portions are clamping members, which are formed by the ends of the flange portion in the longitudinal direction.

[0110] [Item 4] A clamping member described in any one of items 1 to 3, A clamping member wherein each of the first end plate and the second end plate has an engaging portion configured to engage with a restraining member extending from the first end plate to the second end plate.

[0111] [Item 5] A clamping member described in any one of items 1 to 4, A clamping member wherein at least one bead portion is curved so as to bulge out toward the battery stack than at least two plate-like portions.

[0112] [Item 6] A clamping member described in any one of items 1 to 5, The battery stack further includes a heat exchanger configured to contact at least one of the plurality of battery cells in the stacking direction and to perform heat exchange with the battery cell, The covering portion further includes an insertion portion configured to allow the insertion of a pipe for supplying a heat exchange medium to the heat exchanger or for discharging the heat exchange medium from the heat exchanger. The insertion portion is a clamping member provided at at least one end of the covering portion in the longitudinal direction.

[0113] [Item 7] A clamping member described in any one of items 1 to 6, The battery stack further includes a heat exchanger configured to contact at least one of the plurality of battery cells in the stacking direction and to perform heat exchange with the battery cell, The covering portion further includes an insertion portion configured to allow the insertion of a pipe for supplying a heat exchange medium to the heat exchanger or for discharging the heat exchange medium from the heat exchanger. The clamping member comprises at least two plate-like portions, each including a plate-like portion on which the insertion portion is provided.

[0114] [Item 8] It is a battery pack, A battery module comprising a clamping member described in any one of items 1 to 7, and the battery stack clamped by the first end plate and the second end plate, The case housing at least one battery module, A battery pack equipped with these features.

[0115] [Item 9] The battery pack described in item 8, The aforementioned at least one battery module includes a first battery module and a second battery module, The first battery module and the second battery module are arranged side by side in the stacking direction such that the second end plate of the first battery module and the first end plate of the second battery module face each other with a gap between them. A battery pack in which the aforementioned interval is smaller than the sum of the maximum deformation of the first end plate in the stacking direction and the maximum deformation of the second end plate in the stacking direction due to the expansion of the battery stack. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0116] 1...Battery pack, 2...Case, 3...Battery module, 31...Battery stack, 311...Battery cell, 312...Heat exchanger, 32...Clamping member, 33...Restraining member, 5A...Supply pipe, 5B...Discharge pipe, 40A...First end plate, 40B...Second end plate, 41...Coating part, 411A...First plate-shaped part, 411B...Second plate-shaped part, 412...Bead part, 413A...First insertion part, 413B...Second insertion part, 42A...First flange part, 42B...Second flange part, 421...Engaging part, 422...Fixing part, D...Gap, V...Electric vehicle, ΔLa, ΔLb...Maximum deformation.

Claims

1. A clamping member, A battery stack having a plurality of battery cells arranged in a predetermined stacking direction is provided with a first end plate and a second end plate configured to sandwich the battery stack in the stacking direction, Of the first end plate and the second end plate, at least the first end plate is A covering portion having an elongated shape extending in the longitudinal direction which is perpendicular to the stacking direction, and configured to cover the battery stack from the stacking direction, Two fixing parts are configured to be fixable to the inner surface of the case in which the battery stack and the clamping member are housed, It has, The covering portion has at least two plate-like portions and at least one bead portion, The at least two plate-like portions are plate-like portions arranged in the short-side direction, which is perpendicular to both the lamination direction and the longitudinal direction, sandwiching the at least one bead portion. The at least one bead portion is a plate-like portion that extends in the longitudinal direction, curving to bulge outward from the at least two plate-like portions toward the battery stack or toward the opposite side thereof. The two fixing parts are clamping members provided at both ends of the covering part in the longitudinal direction.

2. A clamping member according to claim 1, Of the first end plate and the second end plate, at least the first end plate further has a flange portion that extends from the edge of the covering portion in the short direction toward the battery stack, The flange portion is a clamping member that extends continuously from one end to the other in the longitudinal direction of the covering portion.

3. The clamping member according to claim 2, The two fixing portions are clamping members, which are formed by the flange portion at both ends in the longitudinal direction.

4. A clamping member according to claim 1, A clamping member wherein each of the first end plate and the second end plate has an engaging portion configured to engage with a restraining member extending from the first end plate to the second end plate.

5. A clamping member according to claim 1, A clamping member wherein at least one bead portion is curved so as to bulge out toward the battery stack than at least two plate-like portions.

6. A clamping member according to claim 1, The battery stack further includes a heat exchanger configured to contact at least one of the plurality of battery cells in the stacking direction and to perform heat exchange with the battery cell, The covering portion further includes an insertion portion configured to allow the insertion of a pipe for supplying a heat exchange medium to the heat exchanger or for discharging the heat exchange medium from the heat exchanger, The insertion portion is a clamping member provided at at least one end of the covering portion in the longitudinal direction.

7. A clamping member according to claim 1, The battery stack further includes a heat exchanger configured to contact at least one of the plurality of battery cells in the stacking direction and to perform heat exchange with the battery cell, The covering portion further includes an insertion portion configured to allow the insertion of a pipe for supplying a heat exchange medium to the heat exchanger or for discharging the heat exchange medium from the heat exchanger, The clamping member comprises at least two plate-like portions, each including a plate-like portion on which the insertion portion is provided.

8. It is a battery pack, A battery module comprising a clamping member according to any one of claims 1 to 7, and the battery stack clamped by the first end plate and the second end plate, The case housing at least one battery module, A battery pack equipped with these features.

9. A battery pack according to claim 8, The at least one battery module includes a first battery module and a second battery module, The first battery module and the second battery module are arranged side by side in the stacking direction such that the second end plate of the first battery module and the first end plate of the second battery module face each other with a gap between them. A battery pack in which the aforementioned interval is smaller than the sum of the maximum deformation of the first end plate in the stacking direction and the maximum deformation of the second end plate in the stacking direction due to the expansion of the battery stack.

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