Method for manufacturing a battery module, and a rotating body

Abstract

To facilitate the manufacturing of battery modules. [Solution] A method for manufacturing a battery module comprising a laminate in which a plurality of units are stacked via an insulating sheet, each unit including a first cell group and a second cell group in which a plurality of cells extending in a first direction are arranged in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and a temperature control plate disposed between the first cell group and the second cell group and extending in the second direction, wherein the insulating sheet is placed on the side of one of the cell groups of the first cell group and the second cell group opposite to the temperature control plate side in the unit, and a rotating body having a rotation axis along the first direction and recesses and protrusions alternately provided on its outer circumference along the circumferential direction is moved in the second direction while rolling along the surface of one of the cell groups with its outer circumference pressed against the insulating sheet from the side opposite to the one of the cell groups.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a battery module and a rotating body.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, an electric vehicle capable of traveling with a motor using the electric power stored in a battery module in a battery pack has been known. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a battery pack disposed at the center of the lower part of the vehicle body of an electric vehicle and including a plurality of battery modules. The battery module of Patent Document 1 includes a laminate in which a plurality of units each including a first cell group, a second cell group, and a temperature control plate disposed between the first cell group and the second cell group are stacked.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] As described in Patent Document 1, the battery module includes a large number of parts such as a first cell group, a second cell group, and a temperature control plate. The manufacture of a battery module including such a large number of parts is not easy and has a problem of being difficult.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to facilitate the manufacture of a battery module.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] In order to solve the above problems, the method for manufacturing a battery module of the present invention is A method for manufacturing a battery module comprising a laminate in which a plurality of units are stacked via an insulating sheet, each unit including a first cell group and a second cell group, each including a plurality of cells extending in a first direction and arranged in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and a temperature control plate disposed between the first cell group and the second cell group and extending in the second direction, In the unit, the insulating sheet is placed on the side of one of the cell groups, the first cell group and the second cell group, that is opposite to the side of the temperature control plate. A rotating body having a rotation axis along the first direction and recesses and protrusions alternately provided on its outer circumference along the circumferential direction is moved in the second direction while rolling along the surface of one of the cell groups with the outer circumference pressed against the insulating sheet from the side opposite to the one of the cell groups, Includes. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, the manufacturing of battery modules can be facilitated. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a side view showing the configuration of the vehicle according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the battery module according to this embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the laminate according to this embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating the manufacturing method of the battery module according to this embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a flowchart of the unit creation steps according to this embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a schematic perspective view showing the configuration of the temperature control plate according to this embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the laser measuring apparatus and coating apparatus according to this embodiment. [Figure 8]FIG. 8 is a schematic perspective view of a plurality of jigs according to the present embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view of a plurality of jigs according to the present embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a state in which a jig according to the present embodiment is arranged with a temperature control plate, a first cell group, and a second cell group interposed therebetween. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing a state in which a first cell group and a second cell group are pressed against a temperature control plate by a jig according to the present embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing a state in which a first cell group and a second cell group are pressed against a temperature control plate by a jig according to a modified example. [[ID=!4]] [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a jig according to the present embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a state in which a unit is housed in a main body according to the present embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the state of a unit pressed by a pair of first pressing members and second pressing members according to the present embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a state in which the jig shown in FIG. 15 is inverted 180° about the X axis. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an insulating sheet according to the present embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a rotating body according to the present embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a rotating body according to a modified example.

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0009] With reference to the accompanying drawings, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below. Specific dimensions, materials, numerical values, etc. shown in such embodiments are merely examples for facilitating the understanding of the invention and do not limit the present invention unless otherwise specified. In the present specification and drawings, elements having substantially the same functions and configurations are denoted by the same reference numerals to omit redundant descriptions, and elements not directly related to the present invention are not shown.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a side view showing the configuration of a vehicle 100 according to the present embodiment. In FIG. 1, the Z direction indicates the vertical direction, the X direction indicates a predetermined direction in the horizontal direction, and the Y direction indicates a direction orthogonal to the X direction in the horizontal direction. The X direction is, for example, the forward and backward traveling direction of the vehicle 100, and the Y direction is, for example, the left and right direction of the vehicle 100.

[0011] The vehicle 100 includes a motor 200, an inverter 300, a battery pack 400, and a control device 500. In the present embodiment, the vehicle 100 is an electric vehicle that travels by driving the motor 200. However, it is not limited thereto, and the vehicle 100 may be a hybrid vehicle that travels by driving the motor 200 and an engine (not shown). Here, the configuration related to the features of the present embodiment will be described in detail, and the description of the configuration unrelated to the features of the present embodiment will be omitted.

[0012] The motor 200 obtains driving force from the electric power supplied from the battery pack 400 via the inverter 300. The motor 200 transmits the obtained driving force to the wheels of the vehicle 100. Thereby, the vehicle 100 travels. Further, the motor 200 also functions as a generator at a timing when it is not receiving power supply. The electric power generated by the motor 200 is stored in the battery pack 400 via the inverter 300.

[0013] The inverter 300 is installed between the motor 200 and the battery pack 400. The inverter 300 electrically connects the motor 200 and the battery pack 400. The inverter 300 converts the DC current supplied from the battery pack 400 into AC current and supplies it to the motor 200. The inverter 300 is also electrically connected to the control device 500 and adjusts the power supplied to the motor 200 based on the control commands of the control device 500. This adjusts the driving force of the motor 200.

[0014] The battery pack 400 is located in the center of the lower part of the vehicle body 100. The battery pack 400 stores high-voltage DC power to drive the motor 200. The battery pack 400 comprises at least one battery module 600. In this embodiment, the battery pack 400 comprises a plurality of battery modules 600, for example, four battery modules 600.

[0015] The control device 500 controls the entire vehicle 100. In this embodiment, the control device 500 mainly controls the drive of the motor 200 via the inverter 300. Next, with reference to Figure 2, the details of the battery module 600 included in the battery pack 400 of this embodiment will be described.

[0016] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the battery module 600 according to this embodiment. In Figure 2, the battery module 600 is shown mounted on the battery pack 400. As shown in Figure 2, the battery module 600 comprises a case 610, a stacked body 620, and a busbar module 630.

[0017] The case 610 is, for example, a rectangular parallelepiped case that forms a housing space S inside. The stacked body 620 and the busbar module 630 are housed in the housing space S inside the case 610. The case 610 has an upper cover 612, a side plate 614, and a lower cover 616.

[0018] The upper cover 612 is positioned above the laminate 620 in the Z direction. The upper cover 612 has a rectangular, flat shape. The upper cover 612 covers the upper side of the laminate 620 in the Z direction.

[0019] The side plates 614 are arranged in pairs on both sides in the Y direction relative to the laminate 620 and the busbar module 630. The side plates 614 are rectangular flat plates. The side plates 614 cover both sides in the Y direction of the laminate 620 and the busbar module 630.

[0020] An upper cover 612 is connected to the upper end of the side plate 614 in the Z direction. A lower cover 616 is connected to the lower end of the side plate 614 in the Z direction. In the Y direction, a bracket 618 is provided on the side plate 614 opposite to the laminate 620 and the busbar module 630. In other words, a pair of brackets 618 are provided on each of the pair of side plates 614 on the side opposite to the laminate 620 and the busbar module 630.

[0021] The bracket 618 is, for example, L-shaped and has a first connecting portion 618a and a second connecting portion 618b. The first connecting portion 618a is the part of the bracket 618 that extends in the Z direction and is connected to the side plate 614. The second connecting portion 618b is the part of the bracket 618 that extends from the first connecting portion 618a in the Y direction and is connected to the bottom case of the battery pack 400 (not shown). The bracket 618 is a mounting device for attaching the case 610 of the battery module 600 to the bottom case of the battery pack 400 (not shown).

[0022] The lower cover 616 is positioned below the busbar module 630 in the Z direction. The lower cover 616 has a rectangular, flat shape. The lower cover 616 covers the lower side of the busbar module 630 in the Z direction.

[0023] The space enclosed by the upper cover 612, side plate 614, and lower cover 616 is the storage space S.

[0024] The laminate 620 is positioned between the upper cover 612 and the busbar module 630. The laminate 620 is formed by stacking multiple units 640 in the Y direction. In this embodiment, five units 640 are stacked in the Y direction to form the laminate 620. However, it is not limited to this, and the laminate 620 only needs to be made up of multiple units 640 stacked together; for example, it may be made up of six or more units 640, or it may be made up of four or fewer units 640.

[0025] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the laminate 620 according to this embodiment. Figure 3 shows the laminate 620 shown in Figure 2 as viewed from the Z direction. As shown in Figure 3, the laminate 620 has multiple units 640 stacked in the Y direction.

[0026] Unit 640 includes a first cell group 642, a second cell group 644, and a temperature control plate 646. The first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644 each include multiple cells 650.

[0027] Cell 650 is a secondary battery, such as a nickel-metal hydride battery or a lithium-ion secondary battery. In this embodiment, cell 650 is, for example, cylindrical in shape. However, it is not limited to this, and cell 650 may be, for example, triangular prism, rectangular prism, polygonal prism, elliptical prism, etc. In the example shown in Figure 3, the central axis of cell 650 extends in the Z direction. Hereinafter, the direction of the central axis of cell 650 will also be simply referred to as the first direction.

[0028] The first cell group 642 is a group of cells 650 arranged in the X direction. The direction in which each cell 650 in the first cell group 642 is arranged is perpendicular to the central axis of the cell 650. In the example shown in Figure 3, the first cell group 642 has 6 cells 650 arranged in the X direction. However, the number of cells 650 in the first cell group 642 may be 2 or more, 5 or less, or 7 or more. Thus, the first cell group 642 is composed of multiple cells 650 whose central axes extend in the first direction, arranged in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. Hereafter, the direction in which multiple cells 650 are arranged in the first cell group 642 will also be simply referred to as the second direction.

[0029] The second cell group 644 is a group of cells 650 arranged in the X direction. The direction in which each cell 650 in the second cell group 644 is arranged is perpendicular to the central axis of the cell 650. The direction in which each cell 650 in the first cell group 642 is arranged is the same as the direction in which each cell 650 in the second cell group 644 is arranged. In the example shown in Figure 3, the second cell group 644 has 6 cells 650 arranged in the X direction. However, the number of cells 650 in the second cell group 644 may be 2 or more, 5 or less, or 7 or more. Also, the number of cells 650 in the second cell group 644 is the same as the number of cells 650 in the first cell group 642. However, it is not limited to this, and the number of cells 650 in the second cell group 644 may be different from the number of cells 650 in the first cell group 642. Thus, the second cell group 644 is composed of multiple cells 650 whose central axis extends in the first direction, arranged in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. Hereafter, the direction in which the multiple cells 650 are arranged in the second cell group 644 will also be simply referred to as the second direction.

[0030] The temperature control plate 646 is positioned between the first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644. The temperature control plate 646 is a flat plate formed in a corrugated shape. The direction in which the temperature control plate 646 extends is the X direction, which is the direction in which the first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644 are aligned. In other words, the temperature control plate 646 extends in the second direction in which the first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644 are aligned. In the Y direction, one side of the temperature control plate 646 is connected to the first cell group 642 via adhesive, and the other side of the temperature control plate 646 is connected to the second cell group 644 via adhesive.

[0031] A flow channel (not shown) for circulating a heat transfer medium is formed inside the temperature control plate 646. By circulating the heat transfer medium inside the temperature control plate 646, the temperature of each cell 650 in the first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644 can be adjusted.

[0032] For example, by circulating a refrigerant inside the temperature control plate 646, each cell 650 of the first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644 can be cooled. In this case, the temperature control plate 646 functions as a cooling plate. Alternatively, by circulating a heat transfer medium inside the temperature control plate 646, each cell 650 of the first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644 can be heated. In this case, the temperature control plate 646 functions as a heating plate.

[0033] An insulating sheet 648 is provided between each unit 640. The insulating sheet 648 prevents the first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644 from coming into contact with each unit 640, thereby preventing electrical shorts and leakage current. In addition, the insulating sheet 648 reduces heat conduction, preventing heat transfer between the first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644 between each unit 640.

[0034] Returning to Figure 2, the busbar module 630 is positioned between the laminate 620 and the lower cover 616. The busbar module 630 has a busbar plate 632, a plurality of busbars 634, and a plurality of wires 636. The busbar plate 632 holds the plurality of busbars 634. The plurality of busbars 634 are positioned below the busbar plate 632 in the Z direction. The plurality of wires 636 connect the positive and negative electrodes of each cell 650 to the busbars 634. The plurality of busbars 634 electrically connect the positive and negative electrode terminals of each cell 650 via the wires 636.

[0035] Next, a method for manufacturing the battery module 600 according to this embodiment will be described in detail.

[0036] Figure 4 is a flowchart of the manufacturing method of the battery module 600 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 4, the manufacturing method of the battery module 600 includes a unit creation step S100, a lamination step S200, an assembly step S300, a wire bonding step S400, and a potting step S500.

[0037] The unit creation step S100 creates multiple units 640, each containing a first cell group 642, a second cell group 644, and a temperature control plate 646, as will be described in detail later. The lamination step S200 stacks multiple units 640 to form a laminate 620. The assembly step S300 assembles the created laminate 620 and busbar module 630 into the case 610.

[0038] The wire bonding step S400 connects the positive and negative electrodes of each cell 650 to the busbar 634 with wires 636. The potting step S500 injects potting agent into the laminate 620 and busbar module 630 assembled inside the case 610 and allows it to cure. By curing the injected potting agent, the electrical insulation, fixation, protection, waterproofing, dustproofing, durability, weather resistance, etc., of the laminate 620 and busbar module 630 assembled inside the case 610 can be improved.

[0039] Once the potting agent hardens, the battery module 600 according to this embodiment is completed. Multiple completed battery modules 600 are housed in a battery pack 400. The battery pack 400, containing multiple battery modules 600, is mounted on the vehicle 100.

[0040] Figure 5 is a flowchart of the unit creation step S100 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 5, the unit creation step S100 includes a temperature control plate tensioning step S102, an adhesive application step S104, a first spacing adjustment step S106, a second spacing adjustment step S108, a first jig placement step S110, a second jig placement step S112, a first pressing step S114, a housing step S116, a second pressing step S118, an insulating sheet placement step S120, and a rotating body movement step S122.

[0041] The temperature control plate tensioning step S102 is a process in which both ends of the temperature control plate 646 in the longitudinal direction are held by a jig (not shown) and both ends of the temperature control plate 646 are pulled in the longitudinal direction.

[0042] Figure 6 is a schematic perspective view showing the configuration of the temperature control plate 646 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 6, the temperature control plate 646 has a corrugated plate portion 646a, a pair of flat plate portions 646b, and a pair of pipes 646c.

[0043] A flow path for the heat transfer medium is formed inside the corrugated sheet portion 646a. A first cell group 642 is arranged on the -Y direction side of the corrugated sheet portion 646a, as will be described later, and a second cell group 644 is arranged on the +Y direction side of the corrugated sheet portion 646a, as will be described later. The corrugated sheet portion 646a performs heat exchange between the heat transfer medium flowing inside and the first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644.

[0044] A pair of flat plate sections 646b are provided on both sides of the corrugated plate section 646a in the X direction. The pair of flat plate sections 646b have a flat plate shape with a plane parallel to the XZ plane. In this embodiment, the pair of flat plate sections 646b form both ends of the temperature control plate 646.

[0045] A pair of pipes 646c are provided on one of a pair of flat plate sections 646b. For example, a pair of pipes 646c are provided on the flat plate section 646b on the -X direction side relative to the corrugated plate section 646a. A pair of pipes 646c are provided side by side in the Z direction. One of the pair of pipes 646c supplies a heat transfer medium to the inside of the corrugated plate section 646a. The other of the pair of pipes 646c discharges the heat transfer medium that has flowed through the inside of the corrugated plate section 646a.

[0046] In Figure 6, as indicated by the white arrows, the pair of flat plates 646b are held by a jig (not shown) and pulled apart from each other in the X direction. This allows the overall length of the temperature control plate 646 in the X direction to be adjusted to a reference value.

[0047] As shown in Figure 3, the laminate 620 contains multiple temperature control plates 646. Here, the total length in the X direction of each of the multiple temperature control plates 646 may vary due to manufacturing errors, tolerances, etc. In the temperature control plate tensioning step S102, in order to reduce such variations in each temperature control plate 646, the temperature control plates 646 are pulled using a jig (not shown) to adjust the total length in the X direction of the temperature control plates 646 to a reference value.

[0048] The adhesive application step S104 is a process of applying adhesive AD to both sides of the corrugated sheet portion 646a in the Y direction. Before applying adhesive AD, the shape of the corrugated sheet portion 646a is measured. In this embodiment, the shape of the corrugated sheet portion 646a is measured using a laser measuring device 660. The adhesive AD is applied using an application device 670.

[0049] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the laser measuring device 660 and the coating device 670 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 7, first, the laser measuring device 660 moves in the X direction and measures the corrugated shape of the corrugated sheet portion 646a on the -Y direction side with a laser. Then, based on the measurement results of the laser measuring device 660, the coating device 670 moves in the X direction and applies the adhesive AD to the -Y direction side surface of the corrugated sheet portion 646a. As shown in Figure 7, the adhesive AD is provided in recessed areas on the -Y direction side surface of the corrugated sheet portion 646a. Specifically, multiple adhesive ADs are provided at intervals in the X direction in recessed areas on the -Y direction side surface of the corrugated sheet portion 646a.

[0050] Similarly, the laser measuring device 660 moves in the X direction and measures the corrugated shape of the corrugated sheet portion 646a on the +Y direction side using a laser. Then, based on the measurement results of the laser measuring device 660, the coating device 670 moves in the X direction and applies the adhesive AD to the +Y direction side surface of the corrugated sheet portion 646a. As shown in Figure 7, the adhesive AD is applied to the recessed areas on the +Y direction side surface of the corrugated sheet portion 646a. Specifically, multiple adhesive ADs are applied at intervals in the X direction to the recessed areas on the +Y direction side surface of the corrugated sheet portion 646a.

[0051] In this embodiment, for example, one laser measuring device 660 is positioned on the -Y direction side of the corrugated sheet portion 646a. After measuring the -Y direction side surface of the corrugated sheet portion 646a, the laser measuring device 660 rotates the temperature control plate 646 180° around the Z axis to measure the +Y direction side surface of the corrugated sheet portion 646a. However, it is not limited to this, and a pair of laser measuring devices 660 may be positioned on both sides of the corrugated sheet portion 646a in the Y direction. In that case, the laser measuring device 660 measures the -Y direction side surface and the +Y direction side surface of the corrugated sheet portion 646a simultaneously.

[0052] The first spacing adjustment step S106 is a step of adjusting the spacing of the first cell group 642 in the X direction. In this embodiment, a plurality of jigs 700 are used to adjust the spacing of the first cell group 642 in the X direction. The jig 700 is the third jig according to this embodiment.

[0053] Figure 8 is a schematic perspective view of a plurality of jigs 700 according to this embodiment. Note that Figure 8 shows an example with four jigs 700 for clarity, but the number of jigs 700 is limited to four, and only requires at least two. As shown in Figure 8, the jigs 700 are, for example, rectangular parallelepipeds. The shape and size of each jig 700 are the same.

[0054] A retaining portion 702 for holding the cell 650 is formed on the upper surface 700a of each jig 700 in the +Z direction. The retaining portion 702 is, for example, a recess provided in the center of the upper surface 700a and recessed in the -Z direction from the upper surface 700a. However, the retaining portion 702 is not limited to a recess and only needs to have the function of holding the cell 650. For example, the retaining portion 702 may be at least three or more pins that protrude from the upper surface 700a in the +Z direction and can contact the outer circumferential surface of the cell 650.

[0055] The shape of the retaining portion 702 corresponds to the external shape of the cell 650. For example, if the external shape of the cell 650 is cylindrical, the shape of the retaining portion 702 is cylindrical. The inner diameter of the retaining portion 702 is, for example, approximately the same as the external diameter of the cell 650, and slightly larger than the external diameter of the cell 650. However, it is not limited to this, and the inner diameter of the retaining portion 702 only needs to be larger than the external diameter of the cell 650.

[0056] As shown in Figure 8, the multiple jigs 700 are arranged in a line in the X direction. Furthermore, the multiple jigs 700 are configured to be movable relative to each other in the X direction. That is, the multiple jigs 700 can move away from each other or closer to each other in the X direction. This allows for adjustment of the spacing between the multiple jigs 700 in the X direction. Note that the positions of each jig 700 in the Y and Z directions are approximately the same, and the movement of each jig 700 in the Y and Z directions is restricted. This allows for adjustment of the spacing between the jigs 700 in the X direction while maintaining the relative positions of the jigs 700 in the Y and Z directions. However, the movement of each jig 700 in at least one of the Y and Z directions does not necessarily have to be restricted.

[0057] Next, the operation of the jig 700 will be described. First, multiple cells 650, which are housed in a pallet (not shown), are removed one by one from the pallet by a robot arm (not shown). The cells 650 removed from the pallet by the robot arm are positioned above the holding portion 702 on the upper surface 700a of the jig 700 in the +Z direction, as shown in Figure 8.

[0058] Then, by moving the cell 650 in the -Z direction using a robot arm, the cell 650 is inserted into the holding part 702, and one cell 650 is held in the holding part 702 of one jig 700. Therefore, the number of jigs 700 is the same as the number of cells 650 included in the first cell group 642.

[0059] The holding portion 702 restricts the movement of the cell 650 in the X and Y directions by contacting the outer circumferential surface of the cell 650. Furthermore, the holding portion 702 restricts the movement of the cell 650 in the -Z direction by contacting the bottom surface of the cell 650. In other words, the holding portion 702 functions as a movement restricting portion that restricts the movement of the cell 650, or as a positioning portion that determines the position of the cell 650.

[0060] Each cell 650 is inserted into and held in the holding portion 702 of each jig 700, thereby forming a first cell group 642 aligned in the X direction. When each jig 700 is moved in the X direction, the cells 650 held in each jig 700 also move integrally with the jig 700. Therefore, by adjusting the spacing of each jig 700 in the X direction, the spacing of each cell 650 in the X direction, and consequently the spacing of the cells 650 in the first cell group 642 in the X direction, can be adjusted.

[0061] Thus, in the first spacing adjustment step S106, each cell 650 of the first cell group 642 is placed on each of the multiple jigs 700 that can move relative to each other in the X direction, and the spacing between the cells 650 of the first cell group 642 in the X direction is adjusted. For example, the spacing between cells 650 is set to a target value when adjacent jigs 700 are in contact with each other in the X direction and all jigs 700 are lined up without any gaps. In this case, by pushing the jigs 700 located at both ends of the multiple jigs 700 lined up in the X direction closer to each other, the multiple jigs 700 are brought into the above state, and the adjustment of the spacing between cells 650 is completed.

[0062] The first cell group 642, in which the spacing between cells 650 has been adjusted, is positioned on the -Y side of the temperature control plate 646, as shown in Figure 10, which will be described later.

[0063] The second spacing adjustment step S108 is a step of adjusting the spacing of the second cell group 644 in the X direction. In this embodiment, a plurality of jigs 710 are used to adjust the spacing of the second cell group 644 in the X direction. The jig 710 is the fourth jig according to this embodiment.

[0064] Figure 9 is a schematic perspective view of a plurality of jigs 710 according to this embodiment. Note that in Figure 9, an example with four jigs 710 is shown for clarity; however, the number of jigs 710 is limited to four, and only two or more are permitted. As shown in Figure 9, the jigs 710 are, for example, rectangular parallelepipeds. The shape and size of each jig 710 are the same.

[0065] A retaining portion 712 for holding the cell 650 is formed on the upper surface 710a in the +Z direction of each jig 710. The retaining portion 712 is, for example, a recess provided in the center of the upper surface 710a and recessed in the -Z direction from the upper surface 710a. However, the retaining portion 712 is not limited to a recess and only needs to have the function of holding the cell 650. For example, the retaining portion 712 may be at least three or more pins that protrude from the upper surface 710a in the +Z direction and can contact the outer circumferential surface of the cell 650.

[0066] The shape of the retaining portion 712 corresponds to the external shape of the cell 650. For example, if the external shape of the cell 650 is cylindrical, the shape of the retaining portion 712 is cylindrical. The inner diameter of the retaining portion 712 is, for example, approximately the same as the external diameter of the cell 650, and slightly larger than the external diameter of the cell 650. However, it is not limited to this, and the inner diameter of the retaining portion 712 only needs to be larger than the external diameter of the cell 650.

[0067] As shown in Figure 9, the multiple jigs 710 are arranged in a line in the X direction. Furthermore, the multiple jigs 710 are configured to be movable relative to each other in the X direction. That is, the multiple jigs 710 can move away from each other or closer to each other in the X direction. This allows for adjustment of the spacing between the multiple jigs 710 in the X direction. Note that the positions of each jig 710 in the Y and Z directions are approximately the same, and the movement of each jig 710 in the Y and Z directions is restricted. This allows for adjustment of the spacing between the jigs 710 in the X direction while maintaining their relative positions in the Y and Z directions. However, the movement of each jig 710 in at least one of the Y and Z directions does not necessarily have to be restricted.

[0068] Next, the operation of the jig 710 will be described. First, the multiple cells 650 housed in a pallet (not shown) are removed one by one from the pallet by a robot arm (not shown). The cells 650 removed from the pallet by the robot arm are positioned above the holding portion 712 on the upper surface 710a of the jig 710 in the +Z direction, as shown in Figure 9.

[0069] Then, by moving the cell 650 in the -Z direction using a robot arm, the cell 650 is inserted into the holding part 712, and one cell 650 is held in the holding part 712 of one jig 710. Therefore, the number of jigs 710 is the same as the number of cells 650 included in the second cell group 644.

[0070] The holding portion 712 restricts the movement of the cell 650 in the X and Y directions by contacting the outer circumferential surface of the cell 650. Furthermore, the holding portion 712 restricts the movement of the cell 650 in the -Z direction by contacting the bottom surface of the cell 650. In other words, the holding portion 712 functions as a movement restricting portion that restricts the movement of the cell 650, or as a positioning portion that determines the position of the cell 650.

[0071] Each cell 650 is inserted into and held in the holding portion 712 of each jig 710, thereby forming a second cell group 644 aligned in the X direction. When each jig 710 is moved in the X direction, the cells 650 held in each jig 710 also move integrally with the jig 710. Therefore, by adjusting the spacing of each jig 710 in the X direction, the spacing of each cell 650 in the X direction, and consequently the spacing of the cells 650 in the second cell group 644 in the X direction, can be adjusted.

[0072] In this way, in the second spacing adjustment step S108, each cell 650 of the second cell group 644 is placed on each of the multiple jigs 710 that can move relative to each other in the X direction, and the spacing between the cells 650 of the second cell group 644 in the X direction is adjusted. For example, the spacing between cells 650 is set to the target value when adjacent jigs 710 are in contact with each other in the X direction and all jigs 710 are lined up without any gaps. In this case, by pushing the jigs 710 located at both ends of the multiple jigs 710 lined up in the X direction closer to each other, the multiple jigs 710 are brought into the above state, and the adjustment of the spacing between cells 650 is completed.

[0073] The second cell group 644, in which the spacing between cells 650 has been adjusted, is positioned on the +Y side of the temperature control plate 646, as shown in Figure 10, which will be described later. In this way, the first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644, in which the spacing between cells 650 has been adjusted, are positioned on both sides of the temperature control plate 646 in the Y direction.

[0074] The first jig placement step S110 is the step of placing a jig 730 for pressing the first cell group 642 onto the temperature control plate 646. The jig 730 is the first jig according to this embodiment. The second jig placement step S112 is the step of placing a jig 740 for pressing the second cell group 644 onto the temperature control plate 646. The jig 740 is the second jig according to this embodiment.

[0075] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram showing the jigs 730 and 740 according to this embodiment arranged with the temperature control plate 646, the first cell group 642, and the second cell group 644 in between. As shown in Figure 10, the jig 730 is positioned on the -Y direction side of the temperature control plate 646 and the first cell group 642. The jig 730 is positioned on the opposite side of the temperature control plate 646 from the first cell group 642. In other words, the first cell group 642 is positioned between the jig 730 and the temperature control plate 646.

[0076] The jig 730 includes a main body 732 and an elastic body 734. The elastic body 734 is the first elastic body according to this embodiment. The main body 732 is, for example, a flat plate shape having a surface parallel to the XZ plane. The elastic body 734 is made of, for example, sponge or rubber, and is provided on the surface of the main body 732 on the +Y direction side. In other words, the elastic body 734 is provided between the main body 732 and the first cell group 642. The detailed configuration of the elastic body 734 will be described later.

[0077] The jig 740 is positioned on the +Y direction side of the temperature control plate 646 and the second cell group 644. The jig 740 is positioned on the opposite side of the temperature control plate 646 from the second cell group 644. In other words, the second cell group 644 is positioned between the jig 740 and the temperature control plate 646.

[0078] The jig 740 includes a main body 742 and an elastic body 744. The elastic body 744 is a second elastic body according to this embodiment. The main body 742 is, for example, a flat plate shape having a surface parallel to the XZ plane. The elastic body 744 is made of, for example, sponge or rubber, and is provided on the -Y direction side of the main body 742. In other words, the elastic body 744 is provided between the main body 742 and the second cell group 644. The detailed configuration of the elastic body 744 will be described later.

[0079] Thus, in the first jig placement step S110, a jig 730 having an elastic body 734 is placed on one side of the temperature control plate 646, flanking the first cell group 642. Then, in the second jig placement step S112, a jig 740 having an elastic body 744 is placed on the other side of the temperature control plate 646, flanking the second cell group 644.

[0080] The first pressing step S114 is the process of pressing the jigs 730 and 740 toward the temperature control plate 646. The pressing by the jigs 730 and 740 is performed, for example, using a drive device (not shown). Specifically, the first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644 are pressed toward the temperature control plate 646 by bringing the jigs 730 and 740 close together so that the elastic body 734 is in contact with the first cell group 642 and the elastic body 744 is in contact with the second cell group 644.

[0081] The elastic bodies 734 and 744 press against each cell 650 of the first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644, thereby absorbing variations in manufacturing tolerances and other tolerances of each cell 650 and pressing each cell 650 against the temperature control plate 646. Therefore, even if there are variations in the shape and size of each cell 650, the shape of the elastic bodies 734 and 744 deforms to conform to the shape of each cell 650, allowing all cells 650 to be pressed against the temperature control plate 646. Thus, situations in which some cells 650 are not pressed against the temperature control plate 646 and do not adhere to it can be suppressed. In addition, it is possible to suppress the application of localized excessive loads to the temperature control plate 646 and some cells 650. As a result, damage to the temperature control plate 646 and cells 650 can be suppressed.

[0082] When the jig 730 presses, the first cell group 642 and the temperature control plate 646 come into close proximity, and the adhesive AD of the temperature control plate 646 comes into contact with the first cell group 642, the adhesive AD adheres the temperature control plate 646 to the first cell group 642. Also, when the jig 740 presses, the second cell group 644 and the temperature control plate 646 come into close proximity, and the adhesive AD of the temperature control plate 646 comes into contact with the second cell group 644, the adhesive AD adheres the temperature control plate 646 to the second cell group 644. In this way, the first cell group 642, the second cell group 644, and the temperature control plate 646 are bonded together, and a unit 640 is created, consisting of the first cell group 642, the second cell group 644, and the temperature control plate 646 as a single unit.

[0083] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644 are pressed against the temperature control plate 646 by jigs 730 and 740 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 11, the elastic body 734 is formed in a wavy shape so that the pressing surface on the +Y direction side approaches the outer shape of the first cell group 642. However, it is not limited to this, and the shape of the pressing surface on the +Y direction side of the elastic body 734 may be, for example, a planar shape. The elastic body 734 also has protrusions 736 for securing gaps between the cells 650 of the first cell group 642. The protrusions 736 are provided at distances corresponding to multiples of the spacing between cells 650 in the X direction.

[0084] The shape of the XY cross-section of the projection 736 is, for example, triangular. By inserting the vertex 736a on the +Y side of the projection 736 between two adjacent cells 650, the two adjacent cells 650 can be separated in the X direction. In other words, contact between the two adjacent cells 650 in the X direction can be suppressed.

[0085] In the example shown in Figure 11, the protrusions 736 are provided at intervals in the X direction that correspond to a multiple of 3 of the distance between the centers of adjacent cells 650. The X-direction spacing of these protrusions 736 corresponds to the X-direction length of each group of cells 650 connected to a common busbar 634 in the first cell group 642. Specifically, the X-direction spacing of the protrusions 736 corresponds to the distance between the X-direction position of the cell 650 at one end of the group and the X-direction position of the cell 650 at the other end. This reduces electrical short circuits or leakage currents between each group of cells 650 connected to a common busbar 634 in the first cell group 642.

[0086] Similarly, the elastic body 744 is formed in a wavy shape such that the pressing surface on the -Y direction side approaches the outer shape of the second cell group 644. However, it is not limited to this, and the shape of the pressing surface on the -Y direction side of the elastic body 744 may be, for example, a planar shape. The elastic body 744 also has protrusions 746 for securing gaps between the cells 650 of the second cell group 644. The protrusions 746 are provided at distances in the X direction that correspond to multiples of the spacing between the cells 650.

[0087] The shape of the XY cross-section of the projection 746 is, for example, triangular. By inserting the vertex 746a on the -Y side of the projection 746 between two adjacent cells 650, the two adjacent cells 650 can be separated in the X direction. In other words, contact between the two adjacent cells 650 in the X direction can be suppressed.

[0088] In the example shown in Figure 11, the protrusions 746 are provided at intervals in the X direction that correspond to a multiple of 3 of the distance between the centers of adjacent cells 650. The X-direction spacing of these protrusions 746 corresponds to the X-direction length of each group of cells 650 connected to a common busbar 634 in the second cell group 644. Specifically, the X-direction spacing of the protrusions 746 corresponds to the distance between the X-direction position of the cell 650 at one end of the group and the X-direction position of the cell 650 at the other end. This reduces electrical short circuits or leakage currents between each group of cells 650 connected to a common busbar 634 in the second cell group 644.

[0089] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644 are pressed against the temperature control plate 646 by the jigs 730 and 740 relating to the modified example. As shown in Figure 12, in the modified example, the jig 730 includes a plurality of divided parts 730A, 730B, and 730C which are divided into a plurality in the X direction and configured to be movable in the X direction.

[0090] The divided body 730A includes a partial body 732a which is part of the main body 732 and a partial elastic body 734a which is part of the elastic body 734. The divided body 730B includes a partial body 732b which is part of the main body 732 and a partial elastic body 734b which is part of the elastic body 734. The divided body 730C includes a partial body 732c which is part of the main body 732 and a partial elastic body 734c which is part of the elastic body 734.

[0091] Multiple segments 730A, 730B, and 730C are arranged in a line in the X direction. Furthermore, the segments 730A, 730B, and 730C are configured to be movable relative to each other in the X direction. That is, the segments 730A, 730B, and 730C can move away from each other or closer together in the X direction. This allows for adjustment of the spacing between the segments 730A, 730B, and 730C in the X direction. Note that the positions of each segment 730A, 730B, and 730C in the Y and Z directions are approximately the same. Additionally, the movement of each segment 730A, 730B, and 730C in the Z direction is restricted. This allows for adjustment of the spacing between the segments 730A, 730B, and 730C in the X direction while maintaining their relative positions in the Z direction. However, the movement of each segment 730A, 730B, and 730C in the Z direction does not need to be restricted.

[0092] The position of the dividing surface Ds of the divided bodies 730A, 730B, and 730C is different in the X direction from the position of the pressing portion Ps where the elastic body 734 presses against the cell 650. Specifically, the position of the dividing surface Ds is a non-contact position where the elastic body 734 does not come into contact with the cell 650. For example, the position of the dividing surface Ds is between adjacent cells 650 in the X direction.

[0093] The jig 740 includes a plurality of divided bodies 740A, 740B, and 740C that are divided into multiple parts in the X direction and configured to be movable in the X direction. Divided body 740A includes a partial body 742a which is part of the main body 742 and a partial elastic body 744a which is part of the elastic body 744. Divided body 740B includes a partial body 742b which is part of the main body 742 and a partial elastic body 744b which is part of the elastic body 744. Divided body 740C includes a partial body 742c which is part of the main body 742 and a partial elastic body 744c which is part of the elastic body 744.

[0094] Multiple segments 740A, 740B, and 740C are arranged in a line in the X direction. Furthermore, the segments 740A, 740B, and 740C are configured to be movable relative to each other in the X direction. That is, the segments 740A, 740B, and 740C can move away from each other or closer together in the X direction. This allows for adjustment of the spacing between the segments 740A, 740B, and 740C in the X direction. Note that the positions of each segment 740A, 740B, and 740C in the Y and Z directions are approximately the same. Additionally, movement of each segment 740A, 740B, and 740C in the Z direction is restricted. This allows for adjustment of the spacing between the segments 740A, 740B, and 740C in the X direction while maintaining their relative positions in the Z direction. However, the movement of each segment 740A, 740B, and 740C in the Z direction does not need to be restricted.

[0095] The position of the dividing surface Ds of the divided bodies 740A, 740B, and 740C is different in the X direction from the position of the pressing portion Ps where the elastic body 744 presses against the cell 650. Specifically, the position of the dividing surface Ds is a non-contact position where the elastic body 744 does not come into contact with the cell 650. For example, the position of the dividing surface Ds is between adjacent cells 650 in the X direction.

[0096] As described above, the length of each temperature control plate 646 in the laminate 620 in the X direction may include variations such as manufacturing tolerances and tolerances. By including a plurality of segments 730A, 730B, and 730C configured to be movable in the X direction in the jig 730, the spacing of the segments 730A, 730B, and 730C in the X direction can be adjusted according to the variations in the length of each temperature control plate 646 in the X direction. As a result, each cell 650 can be properly pressed against the temperature control plate 646 while absorbing the variations in the length of each temperature control plate 646 in the X direction. Similarly, by including a plurality of segments 740A, 740B, and 740C configured to be movable in the X direction in the jig 740, the spacing of the segments 740A, 740B, and 740C in the X direction can be adjusted according to the variations in the length of each temperature control plate 646 in the X direction. As a result, variations in the length of each temperature control plate 646 in the X direction can be absorbed, while each cell 650 can be properly pressed against the temperature control plate 646.

[0097] The housing step S116 is the process of housing the unit 640 in the box-shaped body 752 of the jig 750 in order to cure the adhesive AD that bonds the first cell group 642, the second cell group 644, and the temperature control plate 646.

[0098] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the jig 750 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 13, the jig 750 includes a box-shaped body 752. The body 752 is, for example, a rectangular parallelepiped. The length of the body 752 in the X direction is greater than the length of the body 752 in the Y direction and greater than the length of the body 752 in the Z direction. In other words, the width of the body 752 in the X direction is greater than the depth of the body 752 in the Y direction and greater than the height of the body 752 in the Z direction.

[0099] A pair of first openings 754 are formed in the center of a pair of sides of the main body 752 in the Y direction. The first openings 754 are, for example, rectangular in shape and extend in the X direction. The length of the first openings 754 in the X direction is, for example, greater than the length of the unit 640 in the X direction. The length of the first openings 754 in the Z direction is less than the length of the unit 640 in the Z direction.

[0100] A second opening 756 is formed in the center of the upper surface of the main body 752 in the +Z direction. In other words, a second opening 756 is formed in the center of the upper surface on one side of the main body 752 in the Z direction. The second opening 756 is, for example, rectangular and extends in the X direction. The length of the second opening 756 in the X direction is greater than the length of the unit 640 in the X direction. Also, the length of the second opening 756 in the Y direction is greater than the length of the unit 640 in the Y direction. Therefore, the unit 640 can be introduced into the main body 752 through the second opening 756.

[0101] Figure 14 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the unit 640 housed in the main body 752 according to this embodiment. The unit 640 shown in Figure 14 is a unit 640 in which the first cell group 642, the second cell group 644, and the temperature control plate 646 are bonded together with adhesive AD, and the adhesive AD is in an uncured state. As shown in Figure 14, with the second opening 756 of the main body 752 facing the -Z direction, the main body 752 is moved from the +Z direction side of the unit 640 toward the -Z direction. This introduces the unit 640 into the main body 752, and the unit 640 is housed inside the main body 752.

[0102] As shown in Figure 14, electrodes 652 are provided at least one end of each cell 650. In the example shown in Figure 14, electrodes 652 are provided at only one end of the cell 650. However, the example is not limited to this, and electrodes 652 may be provided at both ends of the cell 650.

[0103] The electrode 652 includes a positive electrode 654 and a negative electrode 656. The positive electrode 654 is circular when viewed from the Z direction and is located in the center of the cell 650. The negative electrode 656 is annular when viewed from the Z direction and is located on the outer diameter side of the positive electrode 654.

[0104] The second pressing step S118 is the process of pressing the unit 640 until the adhesive AD hardens. In other words, the second pressing step S118 is the process of pressing the unit 640 until the adhesive AD sets. A pair of first pressing members 760 and second pressing members 770 are used to press the unit 640. The pair of first pressing members 760 and second pressing members 770 are included in the jig 750.

[0105] Figure 15 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the state of a unit 640 being pressed by a pair of first pressing members 760 and second pressing members 770 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 15, one of the pair of first pressing members 760 is positioned on the -Y direction side of the unit 640, and the other of the pair of first pressing members 760 is positioned on the +Y direction side of the unit 640.

[0106] The first pressing member 760, positioned on the -Y side of unit 640, presses the first cell group 642 of unit 640 from the -Y side toward the +Y direction. The first pressing member 760, positioned on the +Y side of unit 640, presses the second cell group 644 of unit 640 from the +Y side toward the -Y direction.

[0107] Furthermore, the second pressing member 770 is positioned on the -Z side of the unit 640. The second pressing member 770 presses the unit 640 toward the bottom surface 752a of the main body 752 in the +Z direction.

[0108] As a result, unit 640 is held between a pair of first pressing members 760 in the Y direction. Unit 640 is also held between the surface 752a of the main body 752 and the second pressing member 770 in the Z direction.

[0109] Figure 16 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the jig 750 shown in Figure 15 rotated 180° around the X-axis. As shown in Figure 16, the unit 640 is housed in the main body 752 with the electrodes 652 of the cell 650 in contact with the -Z-direction surface 752a of the main body 752. In other words, the unit 640 is housed in the main body 752 with the electrodes 652 of the cell 650 in contact with the other Z-direction surface 752a of the main body 752. This allows the Z-direction position (height position) of the electrodes 652 of each cell 650 to be aligned. The states of the jig 750 and the unit 640 transition in the order of the state shown in Figure 14, the state shown in Figure 15, and the state shown in Figure 16. Here, the time that the state shown in Figure 16 is maintained is considerably longer than the sum of the time that the state shown in Figure 14 is maintained and the time that the state shown in Figure 15 is maintained. In other words, the transition from the state shown in Figure 14 to the state shown in Figure 15, and the transition from the state shown in Figure 15 to the state shown in Figure 16, occur quickly, and after the transition to the state shown in Figure 16, the state of the jig 750 and unit 640 is maintained for a long time until the adhesive AD hardens.

[0110] Furthermore, unit 640 is pressed and held from both sides in the Y direction by a pair of first pressing members 760. For the duration until the adhesive AD sets, unit 640 is pressed from both sides in the Y direction by the pair of first pressing members 760 through a pair of first openings 754. This allows the adhesive AD to be cured while positioning the first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644 relative to the temperature control plate 646 in the Y direction.

[0111] Furthermore, unit 640 is pressed and held in the -Z direction toward the surface 752a of the main body 752 by the second pressing member 770. For the time until the adhesive AD sets, unit 640 is pressed in the Z direction by the second pressing member 770 through the second opening 756. This allows the adhesive AD to be cured while positioning the first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644 relative to the temperature control plate 646 in the Z direction.

[0112] After the adhesive AD has set, a unit 640 is formed in which the first cell group 642, the second cell group 644, and the temperature control plate 646 are integrated.

[0113] The insulating sheet placement step S120 is a process of placing the insulating sheet 648 on one side of the unit 640 in the Y direction. The insulating sheet 648 is coated with adhesive AD. The adhesive AD is applied using the laser measuring device 660 and the coating device 670, similar to the adhesive application step S104.

[0114] Figure 17 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the insulating sheet 648 according to this embodiment. The unit 640 shown in Figure 17 is the unit 640 after the adhesive AD has been fixed. As shown in Figure 17, the insulating sheet 648 is placed on the side of one of the cell groups, the first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644, that is opposite to the side of the temperature control plate 646 in the unit 640. In the example shown in Figure 17, the insulating sheet 648 is placed on the side of the second cell group 644 that is opposite to the side of the temperature control plate 646. In other words, the insulating sheet 648 is placed on the +Y direction side of the unit 640.

[0115] The laser measuring device 660 measures the shape of the insulating sheet 648 on the -Y side using a laser. Then, the coating device 670 applies adhesive AD to the surface of the insulating sheet 648 on the -Y side based on the measurement results from the laser measuring device 660.

[0116] The rotating body movement step S122 is the process of attaching the insulating sheet 648 to the unit 640. The insulating sheet 648 is attached using the rotating body 780.

[0117] Figure 18 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the rotating body 780 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 18, the rotating body 780 comprises a rotating shaft 782, a recess 784, and a protrusion 786. The length of the rotating body 780 in the Z direction is the same as the length of the insulating sheet 648 in the Z direction. However, it is not limited to this, and the length of the rotating body 780 in the Z direction may be greater than the length of the insulating sheet 648 in the Z direction.

[0118] The rotation axis 782 is the axis that serves as the rotation center of the rotating body 780. The rotation axis 782 extends in the same direction as the central axis of each cell 650. In other words, the rotation axis 782 extends in the Z direction. The rotating body 780 is configured to rotate clockwise or counterclockwise around the rotation axis 782.

[0119] The recesses 784 and protrusions 786 are arranged alternately along the circumferential direction on the outer circumference of the rotating body 780. In the example shown in Figure 18, five recesses 784 are provided on the outer circumference of the rotating body 780. Similarly, five protrusions 786 are provided on the outer circumference of the rotating body 780. However, the number of recesses 784 and protrusions 786 may be two or more, and is not limited to this. The multiple recesses 784 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the rotating body 780. Similarly, the multiple protrusions 786 are also arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the rotating body 780.

[0120] The recesses 784 have a shape that corresponds to the outer shape of each cell 650 when viewed from the central axis direction of each cell 650. Specifically, the recesses 784 have a shape that follows the outer surface of each cell 650 when viewed from the central axis direction of each cell 650. For example, if the outer shape of each cell 650 is cylindrical, the recesses 784 have an arc shape that becomes part of the cylindrical shape when viewed from the central axis direction of each cell 650. In other words, the recesses 784 have the same shape as a part of the outer shape of the cell 650. This improves the adhesion between the insulating sheet 648 and each cell 650.

[0121] The protrusions 786 have a tapered shape, narrowing towards the radially outer tip when viewed from the central axis direction of each cell 650. The protrusions 786 cause a portion of the insulating sheet 648 to be recessed in the -Y direction. In other words, the protrusions 786 push and deform a portion of the insulating sheet 648 toward the space between adjacent cells 650 in the X direction. As a result, when another unit 640 is placed on the +Y direction side of the insulating sheet 648, the amount by which the insulating sheet 648 is recessed in the -Y direction can reduce the distance between the units 640 in the Y direction. Consequently, the overall length of the laminate 620 in the Y direction can be reduced.

[0122] As shown in Figure 18, in the rotating body movement step S122, the rotating body 780 is moved in the X direction while rolling along the surface of the second cell group 644, with the outer circumference of the rotating body 780 pressed against the insulating sheet 648 from the side opposite to the second cell group 644. This improves the adhesion between each cell 650 and the insulating sheet 648, and allows the insulating sheet 648 to be properly attached to the cells 650. Furthermore, as described above, the distance between the units 640 in the Y direction can be narrowed.

[0123] Figure 19 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the rotating body 780 according to a modified example. As shown in Figure 19, the protrusion 786 has an arc shape that becomes part of the cylindrical shape when viewed from the central axis direction of each cell 650. Even with this modified example, by moving the rotating body 780 in the X direction while rolling it along the surface of the second cell group 644 with the outer circumference of the rotating body 780 pressed against the insulating sheet 648 from the side opposite to the second cell group 644, the adhesion between each cell 650 and the insulating sheet 648 can be improved, and the insulating sheet 648 can be properly attached to the cells 650.

[0124] In the modified example, the recess 784 has a tapered shape, narrowing radially inward when viewed from the central axis direction of each cell 650. However, it is not limited to this, and the shape of the recess 784 may be the shape of the recess 784 shown in Figure 18. In other words, the convex portion 786 only needs to protrude radially outward from the surrounding portion of the outer circumferential surface of the rotating body 780, and the shape of the convex portion 786 is not particularly limited. Also, the recess 784 only needs to be recessed radially inward from the surrounding portion of the outer circumferential surface of the rotating body 780, and the shape of the recess 784 is not particularly limited.

[0125] The lamination step S200 is a process of stacking multiple units 640 to which insulating sheets 648 are attached. Specifically, connecting pipes (not shown) are connected between the piping 646c of the temperature control plate 646 of each unit 640, thereby connecting the units 640. By connecting the units 640, a laminate 620 is formed.

[0126] Here, each unit 640 is held by a jig (not shown). The spacing between each unit 640 is adjusted by moving the jig (not shown). Each unit 640 is connected by connecting pipes (not shown) while the spacing is adjusted by the jig (not shown). The jig (not shown) is equipped with a stopper to limit its movement stroke so that the spacing between each unit 640 does not become too small.

[0127] As described above, the manufacturing method for the battery module 600 according to this embodiment is a method for manufacturing a battery module 600 comprising a laminate 620 in which a plurality of units 640 are stacked, each unit 640 including a first cell group 642 and a second cell group 644 in which a plurality of cells 650 extending in a first direction are arranged in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and a temperature control plate 646 disposed between the first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644 and extending in the second direction.

[0128] The manufacturing method for the battery module 600 according to this embodiment includes a temperature control plate tensioning step S102, an adhesive application step S104, a first spacing adjustment step S106, a second spacing adjustment step S108, a first jig placement step S110, a second jig placement step S112, a first pressing step S114, a housing step S116, a second pressing step S118, an insulating sheet placement step S120, and a rotating body movement step S122.

[0129] In the first jig placement step S110, a jig 730 having an elastic body 734 is placed on one side of the temperature control plate 646, flanking the first cell group 642. In the second jig placement step S112, a jig 740 having an elastic body 744 is placed on the other side of the temperature control plate 646, flanking the second cell group 644. In the first pressing step S114, the first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644 are pressed against the temperature control plate 646 by bringing the jigs 730 and 740 close together so that the elastic body 734 contacts the first cell group 642 and the elastic body 744 contacts the second cell group 644. In this way, the elastic bodies 734 and 744 press each cell 650, allowing each cell 650 to be pressed against the temperature control plate 646 while absorbing variations such as manufacturing errors and tolerances of each cell 650. Therefore, even if there are variations in the shape and size of each cell 650, the elastic bodies 734 and 744 deform to conform to the shape of each cell 650, allowing all cells 650 to be pressed against the temperature control plate 646. Thus, it is possible to suppress situations in which some cells 650 are not pressed against the temperature control plate 646 and do not adhere to it. In addition, it is possible to suppress the application of localized excessive loads to the temperature control plate 646 and some cells 650. As a result, damage to the temperature control plate 646 and cells 650 can be suppressed. Consequently, the manufacturing of the battery module 600 can be made easier.

[0130] Furthermore, the first spacing adjustment step S106 involves placing each cell 650 of the first cell group 642 on each of a plurality of jigs 700 that are movable relative to each other in a second direction, and adjusting the spacing between the cells 650 of the first cell group 642 in the second direction. Furthermore, the second spacing adjustment step S108 involves placing each cell 650 of the second cell group 644 on each of a plurality of jigs 710 that are movable relative to each other in a second direction, and adjusting the spacing between the cells 650 of the second cell group 644 in the second direction. This allows the temperature control plate 646 and the first cell group 642 to be bonded together with the spacing of each cell 650 of the first cell group 642 in the X direction to be precisely adjusted. Similarly, the temperature control plate 646 and the second cell group 644 can be bonded together with the spacing of each cell 650 of the second cell group 644 in the X direction to be precisely adjusted.

[0131] Furthermore, the elastic body 734 of jig 730 and the elastic body 744 of jig 740 have protrusions 736, 746 in the second direction at distances corresponding to multiples of the spacing between cells 650. This reduces electrical shorts and leakage currents between each group of cells 650 in the first cell group 642 that are each connected to a common busbar 634. Similarly, it reduces electrical shorts and leakage currents between each group of cells 650 in the second cell group 644 that are each connected to a common busbar 634.

[0132] Furthermore, jigs 730 and 740 include multiple divided bodies 730A, 730B, 730C, 740A, 740B, and 740C, which are divided into multiple parts in a second direction and configured to be movable in the second direction. This allows for proper pressing of each cell 650 onto the temperature control plate 646 while absorbing variations in the length of each temperature control plate 646 in the X direction.

[0133] Furthermore, the positions of the dividing surfaces Ds of the divided bodies 730A, 730B, 730C, 740A, 740B, and 740C are different in the second direction from the positions of the pressing portions Ps where the elastic bodies 734 and 744 press against the cells 650. This allows each cell 650 to be sufficiently pressed toward the temperature control plate 646, thereby increasing the adhesion between each cell 650 and the temperature control plate 646.

[0134] Furthermore, the jigs 730 and 740 according to this embodiment are jigs used in a manufacturing method for a battery module 600, which comprises a laminate 620 in which a plurality of units 640 are stacked, each unit 640 including a first cell group 642 and a second cell group 644 in which a plurality of cells 650 extending in a first direction are arranged in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and a temperature control plate 646 disposed between the first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644 and extending in the second direction.

[0135] Jig 730 has an elastic body 734 positioned on one side of the temperature control plate 646, sandwiching the first cell group 642. Jig 740 has an elastic body 744 positioned on the other side of the temperature control plate 646, sandwiching the second cell group 644. By positioning jigs 730 and 740 close together so that the elastic body 734 contacts the first cell group 642 and the elastic body 744 contacts the second cell group 644, the first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644 are pressed against the temperature control plate 646. In this way, the elastic bodies 734 and 744 press against each cell 650, allowing each cell 650 to be pressed against the temperature control plate 646 while absorbing variations such as manufacturing errors and tolerances of each cell 650. Therefore, even if there are variations in the shape and size of each cell 650, the elastic bodies 734 and 744 deform to conform to the shape of each cell 650, allowing all cells 650 to be pressed against the temperature control plate 646. Thus, it is possible to suppress situations in which some cells 650 are not pressed against the temperature control plate 646 and do not adhere to it. In addition, it is possible to suppress the application of localized excessive loads to the temperature control plate 646 and some cells 650. As a result, damage to the temperature control plate 646 and cells 650 can be suppressed. Consequently, the manufacturing of the battery module 600 can be made easier.

[0136] Furthermore, the manufacturing method for the battery module 600 according to this embodiment is a method for manufacturing a battery module 600 comprising a laminate 620 in which a plurality of units 640 are stacked, each unit 640 including a first cell group 642 and a second cell group 644 in which a plurality of cells 650 extending in a first direction are arranged in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and a temperature control plate 646 extending in the second direction and disposed between the first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644 via an adhesive AD.

[0137] Furthermore, the housing step S116 involves housing the unit 640 in the body 752 of a jig 750, which has a box-shaped body 752 and a pair of first openings 754 provided on both sides of the body 752 in a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions. Then, the second pressing step S118 involves pressing the unit 640 from both sides in the third direction with a pair of first pressing members 760 through the pair of first openings 754 for the time it takes for the adhesive AD to set. This allows the adhesive AD to be cured while positioning the first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644 relative to the temperature control plate 646.

[0138] Furthermore, a second opening 756 is provided on one side of the main body 752 in the first direction. The second pressing step S118 presses the unit 640 in the first direction with the second pressing member 770 through the second opening 756 for the time it takes for the adhesive AD to set. This allows the adhesive AD to be cured while positioning the first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644 relative to the temperature control plate 646.

[0139] Furthermore, the unit 640 is housed in the main body 752 with the electrodes 652 of the cell 650 in contact with the other side 752a of the main body 752 in the first direction. This allows the positions of the electrodes 652 of each cell 650 to be aligned in the Z direction.

[0140] Furthermore, the jig 750 according to this embodiment is a jig used in a manufacturing method for a battery module 600, which comprises a laminate 620 in which a plurality of units 640 are stacked, each unit 640 including a first cell group 642 and a second cell group 644 in which a plurality of cells 650 extending in a first direction are arranged in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and a temperature control plate 646 extending in the second direction and disposed between the first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644 via an adhesive AD.

[0141] The jig 750 has a box-shaped body 752 and a pair of first openings 754 provided on both sides of the body 752 in a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions. The unit 640 is housed in the body 752. For the duration until the adhesive AD sets, the unit 640 is pressed from both sides in the third direction by a pair of first pressing members 760 through the pair of first openings 754. This allows the adhesive AD to be cured while positioning the first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644 relative to the temperature control plate 646.

[0142] Furthermore, a second opening 756 is provided on one side of the main body 752 in the first direction. During the time it takes for the adhesive AD to set, the unit 640 is pressed in the first direction by the second pressing member 770 through the second opening 756. This allows the adhesive AD to be cured while positioning the first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644 relative to the temperature control plate 646.

[0143] Furthermore, the unit 640 is housed in the main body 752 with the electrodes 652 of the cell 650 in contact with the other side of the main body 752 in the first direction. This allows the positions of the electrodes 652 of each cell 650 in the Z direction to be aligned.

[0144] Furthermore, the manufacturing method for the battery module 600 according to this embodiment is a method for manufacturing a battery module 600 comprising a laminate 620 in which a plurality of units 640 are stacked via an insulating sheet 648, each unit 640 including a first cell group 642 and a second cell group 644 in which a plurality of cells 650 extending in a first direction are arranged in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and a temperature control plate 646 disposed between the first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644 and extending in the second direction.

[0145] In the insulating sheet placement step S120, an insulating sheet 648 is placed on the side of one of the cell groups, the first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644, in the unit 640, opposite to the side with the temperature control plate 646. In the rotating body movement step S122, a rotating body 780, which has a rotating shaft 782 along the first direction and recesses 784 and protrusions 786 alternately provided on its outer circumference along the circumferential direction, is moved in the second direction while rolling along the surface of one of the cell groups, with its outer circumference pressed against the insulating sheet 648 from the side opposite to the side with the cell group. This improves the adhesion between each cell 650 and the insulating sheet 648. It also shortens the length of the laminate in the stacking direction of the laminate 620.

[0146] Furthermore, each cell 650 has a cylindrical shape extending in the first direction. The recess 784 has an arc shape when viewed in the first direction. This allows the rotating body 780 to move in accordance with the outer shape of each cell 650, thereby improving the adhesion between each cell 650 and the insulating sheet 648.

[0147] Furthermore, the rotating body 780 according to this embodiment is a rotating body used in a manufacturing method of a battery module 600, which comprises a laminate 620 in which a plurality of units 640 are stacked via an insulating sheet 648, each unit 640 including a first cell group 642 and a second cell group 644 in which a plurality of cells 650 extending in a first direction are arranged in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and a temperature control plate 646 disposed between the first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644 and extending in the second direction.

[0148] The rotating body 780 comprises a rotation axis 782 aligned with the first direction, and recesses 784 and protrusions 786 alternately provided on its outer circumference along the circumferential direction. The insulating sheet 648 is positioned in the unit 640 on the side of one of the cell groups, the first cell group 642 and the second cell group 644, that is opposite to the side of the temperature control plate 646. The rotating body 780 moves in the second direction while rolling along the surface of one of the cell groups, with its outer circumference pressed against the insulating sheet 648 from the side opposite to the cell group. This improves the adhesion between each cell 650 and the insulating sheet 648. It also shortens the length of the laminate in the stacking direction of the laminate 620.

[0149] Furthermore, the cell 650 has a cylindrical shape extending in the first direction. Also, the recess 784 has an arc shape when viewed in the first direction. This allows the rotating body 780 to move in accordance with the outer shape of each cell 650, thereby improving the adhesion between each cell 650 and the insulating sheet 648.

[0150] Preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the attached drawings, but it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that various modifications or alterations can be conceived within the scope of the claims, and these will naturally also fall within the technical scope of the present invention. For example, the above embodiments described an example in which the battery module 600 is used in a vehicle 100. However, the battery module 600 may be used in applications other than vehicles, but is not limited thereto.

[0151] In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the spacing between cells 650 in the X direction of the first cell group 642 is adjusted using a jig 700. However, adjusting the spacing between cells 650 in the X direction of the first cell group 642 using the jig 700 is not an essential configuration, and such adjustment may be omitted.

[0152] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example was described in which the spacing between cells 650 in the X direction of the second cell group 644 is adjusted using the jig 710. However, adjusting the spacing between cells 650 in the X direction of the second cell group 644 using the jig 710 is not an essential configuration, and such adjustment may be omitted.

[0153] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example was described in which the elastic bodies 734 and 744 have protrusions 736 and 746. However, the protrusions 736 and 746 are not an essential component, and the elastic bodies 734 and 744 do not need to have the protrusions 736 and 746.

[0154] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example was described in which the dividing surface Ds of the divided bodies 730A, 730B, 730C, 740A, 740B, and 740C are in a different position from the pressing portion Ps. However, the dividing surface Ds may be in the same position as the pressing portion Ps.

[0155] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example was described in which the second pressing member 770 presses the unit 640 in the Z direction. However, the second pressing member 770 is not an essential component, and the second pressing member 770 does not need to press the unit 640 in the Z direction. In that case, the unit 640 may come into contact with the bottom surface 752a of the main body 752 due to its own weight, and the height may be leveled by the surface 752a.

[0156] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example was described in which the electrode 652 of the cell 650 is in contact with the surface 752a of the main body 752. However, the invention is not limited to this, and the electrode 652 of the cell 650 does not have to be in contact with the surface 752a of the main body 752. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0157] AD Adhesive 400 Battery Pack 600 Battery Module 620 Laminate 640 units 642 Cell Group 1 644 Cell Group 2 646 Temperature control plate 648 Insulating Sheet 650 cells 652 Electrode 700 Jig (3rd jig) 702 Holding part 710 Jig (4th jig) 712 Holding part 730 Jig (First Jig) 732 Main Unit 734 Elastic body 736 Protrusion 740 Jig (Second Jig) 742 Main Unit 744 Elastic body 746 Protrusion 750 jigs 752 Main Unit 754 First opening 756 Second opening 760 First pressing member 770 Second pressing member 780 Rotating Bodies 782 Rotating shaft 784 recess 786 Convex part

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing a battery module comprising a laminate in which a plurality of units are stacked via an insulating sheet, each unit including a first cell group and a second cell group in which a plurality of cells extending in a first direction are arranged in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and a temperature control plate disposed between the first cell group and the second cell group and extending in the second direction, In the unit, the insulating sheet is placed on the side of one of the cell groups, the first cell group and the second cell group, that is opposite to the side of the temperature control plate. A rotating body having a rotation axis along the first direction and recesses and protrusions alternately provided on its outer circumference along the circumferential direction is moved in the second direction while rolling along the surface of one of the cell groups with the outer circumference pressed against the insulating sheet from the side opposite to the one of the cell groups, including, A method for manufacturing battery modules.

2. The cell has a cylindrical shape extending in the first direction, The recess, when viewed in the first direction, has an arc shape. A method for manufacturing a battery module according to claim 1.

3. A rotating body used in a manufacturing method for a battery module, which comprises a laminate in which a plurality of units are stacked via an insulating sheet, each unit including a first cell group and a second cell group in which a plurality of cells extending in a first direction are arranged in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and a temperature control plate disposed between the first cell group and the second cell group and extending in the second direction, A rotation axis along the first direction, The outer periphery is alternately provided with recesses and protrusions along the circumferential direction, Equipped with, The insulating sheet is arranged in the unit on the side of one of the cell groups, the first cell group and the second cell group, that is opposite to the side of the temperature control plate. The rotating body moves in the second direction while rolling along the surface of the one cell group, with its outer circumference pressed against the insulating sheet from the side opposite to the one cell group. A rotating body.

4. The cell has a cylindrical shape extending in the first direction, The recess, when viewed in the first direction, has an arc shape. The rotating body according to claim 3.

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