Energy storage device and vehicle mounting structure for energy storage device

Abstract

The objective is to provide an energy storage device that suppresses an increase in the mass of the energy storage device while also suppressing the impact of external load input on the inside of the energy storage device. [Solution] The device comprises a power storage cell, a first cover positioned below the power storage cell, a second cover positioned below the first cover, and a first fiber-containing resin member that is in contact with at least one of the first cover or the second cover and, when viewed from above, overlaps with the power storage cell.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a power storage device, particularly a power storage device mounted on a vehicle, and a vehicle mounting structure of the power storage device.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in power storage devices, various structures have been proposed to suppress the influence on the inside of the power storage device due to an external load input (for example, road surface interference, etc.). For example, the power storage device described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2023-46945 discloses that it includes a lower case and a shared panel disposed below the lower case.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the power storage device configured as described above, in order to suppress the influence on the inside of the power storage device, particularly on the power storage cells, due to a stronger external load input, it is necessary to improve the strength of the shared panel (protection panel), but there is a risk that the mass of the power storage device will increase.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and its object is to provide a power storage device and a vehicle mounting structure of the power storage device, which suppress an increase in the mass of the power storage device and suppress the influence on the inside of the power storage device due to an external load input.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The first embodiment of the energy storage device comprises an energy storage cell, a first cover disposed below the energy storage cell, a second cover disposed below the first cover, and a first fiber-containing resin member that is in contact with at least one of the first cover or the second cover and is arranged to overlap the energy storage cell when viewed from above.

[0007] The first embodiment of the energy storage device includes a first fiber-containing resin member that is in contact with at least one of the first cover or the second cover and is positioned to overlap the energy storage cell when viewed from above. As a result, the strength of at least one of the first cover or the second cover is improved below the energy storage cell. Therefore, compared to the case in which a metal member is used, the strength of the energy storage device below the energy storage cell can be improved while suppressing an increase in the mass of the energy storage device, and the impact on the inside of the energy storage device can be suppressed when a load is applied to the energy storage device from below, for example.

[0008] The energy storage device according to the second embodiment comprises a plurality of energy storage cells, the plurality of energy storage cells arranged in a line in a first direction, and the first fiber-containing resin member extends in the first direction and is arranged to overlap with the plurality of energy storage cells when viewed from the top and bottom direction.

[0009] According to the second embodiment of the energy storage device, the first fiber-containing resin member extends in a first direction and is arranged to overlap with a plurality of energy storage cells in the vertical direction. As a result, the strength of at least one of the first cover or the second cover is improved below the plurality of energy storage cells. Therefore, for example, when a load is applied to the energy storage device from below, the impact on the inside of the energy storage device can be further suppressed.

[0010] In the third embodiment of the energy storage device, in the second embodiment, the first fiber-containing resin member is positioned between the first cover and the second cover.

[0011] According to the third embodiment of the energy storage device, the first fiber-containing resin member is positioned between the first cover and the second cover. As a result, when a load is applied to the energy storage device from below, for example, the first fiber-containing resin member is sandwiched between the two relatively rigid members of the first and second covers, and the load is transmitted upward. Therefore, upward displacement of the first fiber-containing resin member, which has relatively high strength below the energy storage cell, can be suppressed, and the impact on the inside of the energy storage device can be further suppressed.

[0012] The energy storage device according to the fourth embodiment further comprises, in the second embodiment, a first reinforcement extending in the first direction and positioned on one side of the second direction perpendicular to the first direction of the energy storage cell, wherein one end of the first fiber-containing resin member in the second direction is positioned to overlap with the first reinforcement when viewed from the up and down direction.

[0013] In the fourth embodiment of the energy storage device, the first fiber-containing resin member is configured to overlap vertically with the first reinforcement at one end in the second direction. As a result, when a load is applied to the energy storage device from below, the upward displacement of the first fiber-containing resin member is limited by the first reinforcement. Therefore, the energy storage device can more reliably bear the load applied from below at the location where the first fiber-containing resin member, which has relatively high strength below the energy storage cell, is positioned, and the impact on the inside of the energy storage device can be further suppressed.

[0014] The vehicle mounting structure for the energy storage device according to the fifth embodiment comprises an energy storage device according to any one of the first to fourth embodiments, wherein the vehicle is arranged to overlap with the energy storage device when viewed from the vertical direction of the vehicle and comprises a vehicle frame member extending in the vehicle width direction, and the first fiber-containing resin member is arranged to overlap with the vehicle frame member when viewed from the vertical direction of the vehicle.

[0015] According to the vehicle mounting structure of the energy storage device according to the fifth embodiment, the first fiber-containing resin member is positioned overlapping with the vehicle frame member when viewed from the vertical direction of the vehicle. As a result, the strength of the energy storage device is improved below the energy storage cell that is positioned overlapping with the vehicle frame member when viewed from the vertical direction of the vehicle. Therefore, when a load is applied to the energy storage device from below, the impact on the inside of the energy storage device can be further suppressed below the vehicle frame member, which is a point where there is a high risk of the load being applied to the energy storage device by being sandwiched between the vehicle frame member and the energy storage device.

[0016] The vehicle-mounted structure of the energy storage device according to the sixth embodiment is, in the fifth embodiment, the energy storage device further comprises an energy storage module composed of a plurality of energy storage cells, and the first fiber-containing resin member extends from the vehicle-front end of the energy storage module to the central part of the energy storage module in the vehicle-rear direction.

[0017] According to the vehicle mounting structure of the energy storage device according to the sixth embodiment, the first fiber-containing resin member extends from the front end of the energy storage module in the vehicle's longitudinal direction to the central part of the energy storage module in the vehicle's longitudinal direction. As a result, the strength of the energy storage device is improved from the front end of the energy storage module to the central part in the vehicle's longitudinal direction. Therefore, when a load is applied to the energy storage device from below, the impact on the inside of the energy storage device can be further suppressed in the area from the front end of the energy storage module to the central part in the vehicle's longitudinal direction, which is a relatively high risk of being subjected to a load from below.

[0018] In the seventh embodiment, the energy storage device, in the sixth embodiment, comprises a second reinforcement extending in the vehicle width direction, and the first fiber-containing resin member extends from the vehicle front end of the energy storage module to the second reinforcement.

[0019] According to the seventh embodiment of the energy storage device, the first fiber-containing resin member extends from the front end of the energy storage module to the second reinforcement. This improves the strength of the energy storage device from the front end of the energy storage module to the second reinforcement, and also limits the upward displacement of the first fiber-containing resin member at the center in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle when a load is applied to the energy storage device from below. Therefore, when a load is applied to the energy storage device from below, the impact on the inside of the energy storage device can be further suppressed in the area from the front end of the energy storage module to the second reinforcement, which is a relatively high risk of being subjected to a load from below. Furthermore, the energy storage device can more reliably bear the load applied from below at the location where the first fiber-containing resin member, which has relatively high strength below the energy storage cell, is positioned, further suppressing the impact on the inside of the energy storage device. .

[0020] The energy storage device according to the eighth embodiment further comprises a second fiber-containing resin member which, in any one embodiment of the first to fourth embodiments, is in contact with either the first cover or the second cover, and which, when viewed from above, is arranged to overlap both the energy storage cell and the first fiber-containing resin member.

[0021] The energy storage device according to the eighth embodiment further comprises a second fiber-containing resin member that is in contact with either the first cover or the second cover, and is positioned to overlap both the energy storage cell and the first fiber-containing resin member when viewed from above. As a result, the strength is further improved by positioning the relatively stronger second fiber-containing resin member in addition to the first fiber-containing resin member below the energy storage cell. Therefore, when a load is applied to the energy storage device from below, the impact on the inside of the energy storage device can be further suppressed. [Effects of the Invention]

[0022] According to the power storage device and the vehicle-mounted structure of the power storage device according to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a power storage device in which the influence on the inside of the power storage device is suppressed when a load is input from the outside while suppressing an increase in the mass of the power storage device.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0023] [Figure 1] It is an exploded perspective view showing an outline of a vehicle-mounted structure of a power storage device 100 according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] It is an exploded perspective view showing an outline of the power storage device 100 shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 3] It is a perspective view showing the power storage module 110 shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 4] It is a cross-sectional view of the power storage device 100 shown in FIG. 1 viewed from the vehicle front-rear direction. [Figure 5] It is a view of the lean force 131 shown in FIG. 4 enlarged and viewed from the vehicle front-rear direction. [Figure 6] It is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle-mounted structure of the power storage device 100 shown in FIG. 1 viewed from the vehicle front-rear direction. [Figure 7] It is a cross-sectional view of the power storage device according to Embodiment 2 viewed from the vehicle front-rear direction.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0024] The power storage device according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In addition, the arrows UP, FR, and RH appropriately shown in each figure respectively indicate the upward direction in the vehicle vertical direction, the forward direction in the vehicle front-rear direction, and the right direction in the vehicle left-right direction (vehicle width direction) in the vehicle V on which the vehicle-mounted power storage device 10 is mounted. Further, in the following description, when simply using the directions of up and down, front and rear, and left and right, unless otherwise specified, the front and rear in the vehicle front-rear direction, the up and down in the vehicle vertical direction, and the left and right in the vehicle left-right direction (vehicle width direction) are respectively indicated. Furthermore, when using the positional relationships of above, below, front, rear, left, and right, unless otherwise specified, the front and rear in the vehicle front-rear direction, the above and below in the vehicle vertical direction, and the left and right in the vehicle left-right direction (vehicle width direction) are respectively indicated.

[0025] Unless otherwise specified in the specification, each element is not limited to one, but may exist in multiple forms. Furthermore, in the drawings, substantially identical elements are denoted by the same reference numeral, and redundant explanations in the specification are omitted.

[0026] (Embodiment 1) [Overall structure] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view showing a schematic vehicle mounting structure of the energy storage device 100 according to Embodiment 1. As shown in Figure 1, the energy storage device 100 is mounted below the vehicle frame 10. For example, the energy storage device 100 is joined to the vehicle frame 10 at its peripheral edge.

[0027] The vehicle frame 10 is composed of a center module 11, a front module 12 located in front of the center module 11, and a rear module 13 located behind the center module 11. The front module 12 and the rear module 13 may each be formed by joining multiple frame members, or some of the frame may be integrally formed by methods such as casting.

[0028] The center module 11 is composed of a front frame member 11a, a pair of side frame members 11b, a rear frame member 11c, a front cross member 11d, and a rear cross member 11e. The front cross member 11d and the rear cross member 11e are joined at both ends in the left-right direction to the pair of side frame members 11b.

[0029] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the energy storage module 110 shown in Figure 2. The energy storage device 100 comprises a plurality of energy storage modules 110. For example, the plurality of energy storage modules 110 are arranged in a row in the left-to-right direction. As will be described in detail later, for example, the energy storage module 110 is composed of a plurality of energy storage cells arranged in a row in the front-to-back direction. Note that the plurality of energy storage modules 110 may also be arranged in a row in the front-to-back direction, in which case the plurality of energy storage cells may be arranged in a row in the left-to-right direction.

[0030] The energy storage module 110 is housed in a case comprising an upper cover 120 and a lower cover 130. The upper cover 120 and the lower cover 130 are joined together by known methods such as fasteners or adhesives. More specifically, the upper cover 120 is located above the energy storage cell, and the lower cover 130 is located below the energy storage cell.

[0031] A protective panel 140 is provided below the lower cover 130. As will be described in detail later, the protective panel 140 is attached to the lower cover 130 by known methods such as fasteners or adhesives.

[0032] The upper cover 120 may also function as a floor panel, partitioning at least a portion of the interior and exterior of the vehicle, at least in the area forward of the center in the front-rear direction. In this case, the upper cover 120 may be joined to the front cross member 11d or the rear cross member 11e using known methods such as fastening.

[0033] The upper cover 120 has the battery equipment 150 positioned above it, at least in the area rearward from the center in the front-rear direction. For example, the battery equipment is electrically connected to sensors that detect the state of the energy storage cells, such as temperature, voltage, and current, which will be described in detail later. For example, the battery equipment 150 includes at least one selected from a BMS (Battery Management System), ECU (Electronic Control Unit), DCDC converter, SMR (System Main Relay), etc.

[0034] The battery device 150 is configured to be covered from above by a device cover 160. The device cover 160 may house the battery device 150 by being joined to a device base on which the battery device 150 is placed. Alternatively, the device cover 160 may house the battery device 150 by being joined to an upper cover 120.

[0035] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing the energy storage module 110 shown in Figure 2. The energy storage module 110 is configured by arranging a plurality of energy storage cells 111 in a row in the front-to-back direction. For example, each energy storage cell 111 may have electrode terminals on both ends in the left-to-right direction. Note that the electrode terminals of the energy storage cell 111 are not limited to being provided on both ends in the left-to-right direction, but may be provided only on one end in the left-to-right direction. Also, the electrode terminals of the energy storage cell 111 may be provided on both ends in the up-to-down direction, or only on one end in the up-to-down direction. Note that in the energy storage module 110 according to Embodiment 1, an example is shown of an energy storage module 110 that includes a plurality of energy storage cells 111 arranged in a row in the front-to-back direction, but the energy storage module 110 is not limited to the embodiment, as long as it includes a plurality of energy storage cells 111.

[0036] Furthermore, inter-cell members may be placed between adjacent energy storage cells 111. For example, the inter-cell members may be coolers, heat insulating members, insulating members, or elastic members. In addition, intermediate members, which will be described in detail later, may be placed between adjacent energy storage cells 111, at least in part. When the energy storage module 110 is configured to include intermediate members, the displacement of the energy storage cells 111 within the energy storage module 110 can be more reliably suppressed in the front-rear direction.

[0037] Multiple energy storage cells 111 are arranged in a row in the front-to-back direction, and each end of these cells is fitted with a pair of end plates 112. The pair of end plates 112 are connected by a pair of side plates 113, which suppresses displacement of the multiple energy storage cells 111 in the front-to-back direction.

[0038] Furthermore, the energy storage cells 111, which are arranged in a row in the front-to-back direction, may adopt a CTP (Cell to Pack) structure in which at least one end of the cells is positioned on a part of the surface of the case housing the energy storage device 100. This improves the space efficiency inside the energy storage device.

[0039] Furthermore, multiple energy storage cells 111 arranged in a row in the front-to-back direction may adopt a CTC (Cell to Chassis) structure in which a part of the vehicle frame 10 is located at at least one end. This improves the space efficiency inside the energy storage device while allowing multiple energy storage cells to be held more securely.

[0040] A busbar module 114 is provided at the electrode terminals 115 of the energy storage cell 111, which electrically connects the electrode terminals 115 of adjacent energy storage cells 111. The busbar module 114, for example, electrically connects the electrode terminals 115 of adjacent energy storage cells 111 to form part of a circuit. Note that the busbar module 114 is not limited to connecting the electrode terminals 115 of adjacent energy storage cells 111, but may also electrically connect the electrode terminals 115 of non-adjacent energy storage cells 111 within the energy storage module 110.

[0041] Furthermore, the energy storage module 110 is configured with an intermediate member 117 (not shown in Figure 4) provided between adjacent pairs of energy storage cells 111.

[0042] The intermediate member 117 is, for example, a frame material made of metal such as iron or aluminum. The intermediate member 117 is connected to, for example, the end plate 112c and the side plate 113c, and suppresses the displacement of the energy storage cell 311 in the front-rear direction.

[0043] The intermediate member 117 is positioned to protrude, for example, from one or both sides in the left-right direction compared to the energy storage cell 111. Alternatively, the intermediate member 117 may be positioned to protrude, for example, from one or both sides in the up-down direction compared to the energy storage cell 311.

[0044] The intermediate member 117 may be positioned in the center of the energy storage module 110 in the front-to-back direction. If the energy storage module 110 includes n intermediate members 117, the n intermediate members 117 may be positioned in portions that divide the energy storage module 110 into (n+1) equal parts in the front-to-back direction.

[0045] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the energy storage device 100 shown in Figure 1, viewed from the front-rear direction of the vehicle. Above the lower cover 130, multiple reinforcements 131 (first reinforcements) are provided, spaced apart in the left-right direction and extending in the front-rear direction. Between the multiple reinforcements 131, an energy storage module 110, comprising multiple energy storage cells 111, is arranged. The energy storage module 110 is joined to the reinforcements 131, for example, via adhesive. In addition to adhesive, the energy storage cells 110 may also be joined to the reinforcements 131 by known methods such as fastening or welding.

[0046] Furthermore, in the above configuration, a space is formed between the energy storage cell 111 and the lower cover 130 in the vertical direction. For example, the distance between the energy storage cell 111 and the lower cover 130 in the vertical direction is greater than the distance between the lower case and the protective panel in the vertical direction, which will be described in detail later. In this case, when the lower cover 130 or the protective panel 140 deforms toward the energy storage cell, the load input to the energy storage cell 111 can be suppressed.

[0047] The lower cover 130 may have a thickness of 0.5 mm or more and 5 mm or less in the vertical direction. More preferably, it is 0.5 mm or more and 3 mm or less. Even more preferably, it is 0.5 mm or more and 1 mm or less.

[0048] The lower cover 130 is made of, for example, iron. It may also be made of aluminum. Furthermore, it is not limited to being made of iron, and may be made of, for example, a compound such as an alloy containing iron or aluminum.

[0049] Figure 5 is an enlarged view of the reinforcement 131 shown in Figure 4, viewed from the front-rear direction of the vehicle. As shown in Figure 5, the reinforcement 131 is composed of multiple members, including an upper reinforcement 1310 and a lower reinforcement 1311. The upper reinforcement 1310 includes a first flat portion 1310a, a second flat portion 1310b, a third flat portion 1310c positioned above the first flat portion 1310a and the second flat portion 1310b, a first connecting portion 1310d connecting the first flat portion 1310a and the third flat portion 1310c, and a second connecting portion 1310e connecting the second flat portion 1310b and the third flat portion 1310c. The lower reinforcement 1311 is composed of a fourth planar section 1311a, a fifth planar section 1311b, a sixth planar section 1311c located below the fourth planar section 1311a and the fifth planar section 1311b, a seventh planar section 1311d, an eighth planar section 1311e, a third connecting section 1311f connecting the fourth planar section 1311a and the sixth planar section 1311c, a fourth connecting section 1311g connecting the fourth planar section 1311a and the seventh planar section 1311d, a fifth connecting section 1311h connecting the fifth planar section 1311b and the seventh planar section 1311d, and a sixth connecting section 1311i connecting the fifth planar section 1311b and the eighth planar section 1311e. The upper reinforcement 1310 and the lower reinforcement 1311 may be integrally formed by methods such as casting or extrusion.

[0050] Next, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, the busbar module 114, which is electrically connected to the electrode terminals 115 of the energy storage cell 111, is positioned to overlap vertically with the third planar portion of the reinforcement 131. It is also possible that the electrode terminals 115 of the energy storage cell 111 and the third planar portion are positioned to overlap vertically. In this specification, unless otherwise specified, "positioned to overlap vertically" means that at least a portion of them must overlap vertically.

[0051] Returning to Figure 4, the upper cover 120 of the energy storage device 100 will be described. The upper cover 120 is provided above the energy storage cell 111. The upper cover 120 has a convex portion 121 that protrudes downward above the energy storage cell. A cooler 170 is positioned above the convex portion 121 in contact with it. Furthermore, a heat conductive member 116 is positioned below the convex portion 121 in contact with both the energy storage cell 111 and the upper cover 120.

[0052] Furthermore, the protective panel 140 is joined to the lower cover 130, and a gap is provided between the protective panel 140 and the lower cover 130. A first resin member 141 is also positioned between the protective panel 140 and the lower cover 130. The first resin member 141 is positioned in contact with the lower cover 130. The first resin member 141 is also positioned in contact with the protective panel 141. With the above configuration, it is possible to improve the rigidity of the lower cover and the protective panel, specifically the bending rigidity, and more specifically the second moment of area, while suppressing an increase in the mass of the energy storage device 100. For example, when an external load is applied to the energy storage device 100 due to road surface interference, the impact on the inside of the energy storage device 100, especially the energy storage cells 111, can be suppressed.

[0053] The first resin member 141 may be positioned in contact with both the lower cover 130 and the protective panel 140 at the same location. In this specification, unless otherwise specified, "in contact" means that at least a part of the surfaces may be in contact, or the entire surface may be in contact with the other.

[0054] The protective panel 140 is made of, for example, aluminum. It may also be made of iron. Furthermore, it is not limited to being made of iron, and may be made of, for example, a compound such as an alloy containing iron or aluminum.

[0055] The protective panel 140 may have a thickness of 1 mm or more and 5 mm or less in the vertical direction. More preferably, it is 2 mm or more and 4 mm or less.

[0056] The first resin member 141 may have a width of 3 mm or more and 20 mm or less in the left-right direction. More preferably, it is 5 mm or more and 20 mm or less, and even more preferably 10 mm or more and 20 mm or less.

[0057] The first resin member 141 may have a thickness of 1 mm or more and 5 mm or less in the vertical direction. More preferably, it is 2 mm or more and 4 mm or less.

[0058] The first resin member 141 may be composed of at least one type selected from, for example, PE (polyethylene), PP (polypropylene), PE foam, PP foam, GFRP (glass fiber reinforced polymer), CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced polymer), etc.

[0059] The first resin member 141 may be joined to the lower cover 130 via adhesive on its upper surface. The first resin member 141 may also be joined to the protective panel 140 via adhesive on its lower surface. In this specification, unless otherwise specified, "in contact" means that at least a portion of the surfaces is in contact, and the entire surface of the opposing surfaces may also be in contact.

[0060] The first resin member 141 may be an adhesive resin, and may be composed of at least one type selected from, for example, urethane adhesives, epoxy adhesives, silicone adhesives, acrylic adhesives, etc. In this case, the first resin member 141 can be joined to the lower cover 130 or the protective panel 140 at least one of its upper or lower surfaces, respectively, without the need to prepare an additional adhesive.

[0061] The first resin member 141 extends in the front-to-back direction and is positioned to overlap with the multiple energy storage cells 111 in the vertical direction. The first resin member 141 is also positioned to overlap with the reinforcement 131 in the vertical direction. With this configuration, when an external load is applied to the energy storage device 100, the applied load can be transmitted to the reinforcement 131, which has relatively high rigidity inside the energy storage device 100, further suppressing the impact on the inside of the energy storage device 100, especially on the energy storage cells 111.

[0062] Furthermore, the first resin member 141 may be positioned in the central part of the energy storage cell 111 in the left-right direction, overlapping the energy storage cell 111 in the vertical direction. With the above configuration, when an external load is applied to the energy storage device 100, it is possible to suppress excessive deformation of the protective panel 140 below the energy storage cell 111, and further suppress the impact on the inside of the energy storage device 100, especially on the energy storage cell 111.

[0063] A second resin member 142 is positioned between the protective panel 140 and the lower cover 130. The second resin member 142 is positioned in contact with the protective panel 140.

[0064] The second resin member 142 may be positioned in contact with both the lower cover 130 and the protective panel 140 at the same location, at least in part.

[0065] The second resin member 142 may have a width of 3 mm or more and 20 mm or less in the left-right direction. More preferably, it is 5 mm or more and 20 mm or less, and even more preferably 10 mm or more and 20 mm or less.

[0066] The second resin member 142 may have a thickness of 1 mm or more and 5 mm or less in the vertical direction. More preferably, it is 2 mm or more and 4 mm or less.

[0067] The second resin member 142 has a lower Young's modulus than the first resin member 141. The second resin member 142 may be composed of at least one material selected from, for example, PE (polyethylene), PP (polypropylene), PE foam, PP foam, GFRP (glass fiber reinforced polymer), CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced polymer), etc. With the above configuration, a portion that relatively transmits the load to the protective panel 140 and a portion that relatively absorbs the load to the protective panel 140 can be formed, making it easy to set the deformation points of the protective panel 140, and suppressing the impact on the inside of the energy storage device 100, especially the energy storage cells 111, when an external load is input to the energy storage device 100.

[0068] The second resin member 142 is composed of an adhesive. For example, it may be composed of at least one type of adhesive selected from urethane-based adhesives, epoxy-based adhesives, silicone-based adhesives, acrylic-based adhesives, etc. In this case, the second resin member 142 can be joined to the lower cover 130 or the protective panel 140 on at least one of its upper or lower surface, respectively, without the need to separately prepare an adhesive. With the above configuration, the number of joining points between the lower cover 130 and the protective panel 140 can be increased without increasing the number of fastening components, and the bonding strength between the lower cover 130 and the protective panel 140 can be improved.

[0069] Furthermore, the second resin member 142 may be configured to have greater adhesive strength to the lower cover 130 or protective panel 140 than the first resin member 141. This allows for a stronger bond between the lower cover and the protective panel.

[0070] The second resin member 142 extends in the front-to-back direction and is positioned to overlap with the multiple energy storage cells 111 in the vertical direction. The second resin member 142 is also positioned to overlap with the reinforcement 131 in the vertical direction. With this configuration, when an external load is applied to the energy storage device 100, the load is transmitted to the relatively rigid reinforcement 131, further suppressing the impact on the inside of the energy storage device 100, especially on the energy storage cells 111.

[0071] Furthermore, the second resin member 142 may be positioned in the central part of the energy storage cell 111 in the left-right direction, overlapping the energy storage cell 111 in the vertical direction.

[0072] Multiple first resin members 141 are arranged side by side in the left-right direction. The first resin members 141 may also be arranged between multiple second resin members 142 in the left-right direction. With the above configuration, while suppressing an increase in the mass of the energy storage device 100, multiple locations are provided where the load is transmitted when the protective panel 140 deforms upward. This reduces the space between the lower cover 130 and the protective panel 140 for the protective panel 140 to deform and absorb the input load, and allows for miniaturization of the energy storage device 100.

[0073] Multiple second resin members 142 are arranged side by side in the left-right direction. The second resin members 142 may also be arranged between multiple first resin members 141 in the left-right direction.

[0074] A first fiber-containing resin member 143 is positioned between the protective panel 140 and the lower cover 130. The first fiber-containing resin member 143 is positioned in contact with the lower cover 130. The first fiber-containing resin member 143 is also positioned in contact with the protective panel 140.

[0075] [Main part configuration] The first fiber-containing resin member 143 is a resin member containing fiber material, and may be composed of at least one type of resin member selected from, for example, PE (polyethylene), PP (polypropylene), PE foam, PP foam, GFRP (glass fiber reinforced polymer), CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced polymer), etc.

[0076] The fibrous material may consist of at least one type selected from, for example, para-aramid fibers, meta-aramid fibers, high molecular weight polyethylene fibers, polyarylate fibers, PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) fibers, PBO (polyparaphenylenebenzobisoxazole) fibers, PPS (polyphenylene sulfide) fibers, polyimide fibers, PAN-based carbon fibers, pitch-diameter carbon fibers, glass fibers, boron fibers, silicon carbide fibers, etc.

[0077] The first fiber-containing resin member 143 is constructed to have higher strength compared to the first resin member 141. Here, "higher strength" means that at least one strength selected from, for example, tensile strength, compressive strength, and bending strength is relatively high.

[0078] The first fiber-containing resin member 143 may have a thickness of 1 mm or more and 5 mm or less in the vertical direction. More preferably, it is 2 mm or more and 4 mm or less.

[0079] The first fiber-containing resin member 143 is positioned so as to overlap the energy storage cell 111 in the vertical direction. Furthermore, the first fiber-containing resin member 143 is positioned so as to overlap the central part of the energy storage cell 111 in the horizontal direction and in the vertical direction.

[0080] The first fiber-containing resin member 143 is positioned to extend in the left-right direction, at least from one adjacent reinforcement 131 to the other. Furthermore, the end of the first fiber-containing resin member 143 in the left-right direction is positioned to overlap the sixth planar portion (eighth planar portion) of the reinforcement 131 in the vertical direction.

[0081] The first fiber-containing resin member 143 is constructed by joining it to at least one of the lower cover 130 or the protective panel 140 using, for example, a known method such as an adhesive.

[0082] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle-mounted structure of the energy storage device 100 shown in Figure 1, viewed from the front-rear direction of the vehicle. The first fiber-containing resin member 143 is arranged extending in the front-rear direction and overlaps both 13d and 13e in the vertical direction.

[0083] Furthermore, the first fiber-containing resin member 143 is positioned extending in the front-to-back direction from the front end of the energy storage module 110 to the central part of the energy storage module 110 in the front-to-back direction. Note that "positioned from the front end of the energy storage module 110 to the central part of the energy storage module 110 in the front-to-back direction" means that it is sufficient for the member to be positioned at least between the front end of the energy storage module 110 and the central part of the energy storage module 110 in the front-to-back direction.

[0084] The first fiber-containing resin member 143 is arranged to extend in the front-rear direction from at least the front end of the energy storage module 110 to the intermediate member 117 (second reinforcement). "Arranged from the front end of the energy storage module 110 to the intermediate member 117" means that it is sufficient for it to be arranged at least between the front end of the energy storage module 110 and the intermediate member 117. In the above, the intermediate member 117 is shown as an example of the second reinforcement, but the second reinforcement may be a rigid member such as a cross member that is arranged inside the energy storage device and extends in the vehicle width direction.

[0085] (Effects and workings of Embodiment 1) Next, the operation and effects of the energy storage device 100 and the vehicle mounting structure of the energy storage device 100 according to Embodiment 1 will be explained.

[0086] In the energy storage device 100 according to Embodiment 1, as shown in Figure 4, a first fiber-containing resin member 143 containing fiber material is joined to at least one of the lower cover 130 or the protective panel 140. Furthermore, the first fiber-containing resin member 143 is positioned to overlap the energy storage cell 111 in the vertical direction. As a result, the strength of at least one of the lower cover 130 or the protective panel 140 is improved below the energy storage cell 111. Therefore, compared to the case in which metal members are used, the strength of the energy storage device 100 below the energy storage cell 111 can be improved while suppressing an increase in the mass of the energy storage device 100, and for example, the impact on the inside of the energy storage device 100 when a load is applied to the energy storage device 100 from below can be suppressed.

[0087] Next, other effects of the energy storage device 100 according to Embodiment 1 will be described in detail.

[0088] Firstly, in the energy storage device 100 according to Embodiment 1, as shown in Figure 4, the first fiber-containing resin member 143 extends in a first direction and is arranged to overlap with the plurality of energy storage cells 111 in the vertical direction. As a result, the strength of at least one of the lower cover 130 or the protective panel 140 is improved below the plurality of energy storage cells 111. Therefore, for example, when a load is applied to the energy storage device 100 from below, the impact on the inside of the energy storage device 100 can be further suppressed.

[0089] Secondly, in the energy storage device 100 according to Embodiment 1, as shown in Figure 4, the first fiber-containing resin member 143 is positioned between the lower cover 130 and the protective panel 140. As a result, when a load is applied to the energy storage device 100 from below, for example, the first fiber-containing resin member 143 is sandwiched between the two relatively rigid members, the lower cover 130 and the protective panel 140, and the load is transmitted upward. Therefore, upward displacement of the first fiber-containing resin member 143, which has relatively high strength below the energy storage cell 111, can be suppressed, and the impact on the inside of the energy storage device can be further suppressed.

[0090] Thirdly, in the energy storage device 100 according to Embodiment 1, as shown in Figure 4, the first fiber-containing resin member 143 is configured to overlap vertically with the first reinforcement 131 at one end in the second direction. As a result, when a load is applied to the energy storage device 100 from below, the upward displacement of the first fiber-containing resin member 143 is limited by the first reinforcement 131. Therefore, the energy storage device 100 can more reliably bear the load applied from below at the location where the first fiber-containing resin member 143, which has relatively high strength below the energy storage cell 111, is positioned, and the impact on the inside of the energy storage device 100 can be further suppressed.

[0091] Fourthly, in the energy storage device 100 according to Embodiment 1, as shown in Figure 4, the first fiber-containing resin member 143 is positioned to overlap with the front seat cross member 13d and the rear seat cross member 13e when viewed from the vertical direction of the vehicle. As a result, the strength of the energy storage device 100 is improved below the energy storage cell 111 which is positioned to overlap with the front seat cross member 13d and the rear seat cross member 13e when viewed from the vertical direction of the vehicle. Therefore, when a load is applied to the energy storage device 100 from below, the impact on the inside of the energy storage device 100 can be further suppressed below the front seat cross member 13d and the rear seat cross member 13e, which are areas where there is a high risk of the load being applied to the energy storage device 100 by being sandwiched between them.

[0092] Fifth, the first fiber-containing resin member 143 extends from the front end of the energy storage module 110 in the vehicle's longitudinal direction to the central part of the energy storage module 110 in the vehicle's longitudinal direction. This improves the strength of the energy storage device 100 from the front end of the energy storage module 110 to the central part in the vehicle's longitudinal direction. Therefore, when a load is applied to the energy storage device 100 from below, the impact on the inside of the energy storage device 100 can be further suppressed in the area from the front end of the energy storage module 110 to the central part in the vehicle's longitudinal direction, which is a relatively high risk of being subjected to a load from below.

[0093] Sixth, in the energy storage device 100 according to Embodiment 1, the first fiber-containing resin member 143 extends from the vehicle-front end of the energy storage module 110 to the second reinforcement 117. This improves the strength of the energy storage device 100 from the vehicle-front end of the energy storage module 110 to the second reinforcement 117, and also limits the upward displacement of the first fiber-containing resin member 143 in the central part in the vehicle-rear direction when, for example, a load is applied to the energy storage device 100 from below. Therefore, when a load is applied to the energy storage device 100 from below, the impact on the inside of the energy storage device 100 can be further suppressed in the area from the front end of the energy storage module 110 on the vehicle side to the second reinforcement 117, which is a relatively high risk of a load being applied to the energy storage device 100 from below. Furthermore, the energy storage device 100 can more reliably bear the load applied from below at the location where the first fiber-containing resin member 143, which has relatively high strength below the energy storage cell 111, is positioned, thereby further suppressing the impact on the inside of the energy storage device 100. .

[0094] (Embodiment 2) Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the energy storage device according to Embodiment 2, viewed from the front-rear direction of the vehicle. The energy storage device 200 according to Embodiment 2 further includes a second fiber-containing resin member 232 in addition to the first fiber-containing resin member 143 disclosed in Embodiment 1. The second fiber-containing resin member 232 is configured as a resin member containing fiber material. The energy storage device according to Embodiment 2 is substantially the same as that of Embodiment 1 in all other respects.

[0095] The fibrous material may consist of at least one type selected from, for example, para-aramid fibers, meta-aramid fibers, high molecular weight polyethylene fibers, polyarylate fibers, PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) fibers, PBO (polyparaphenylenebenzobisoxazole) fibers, PPS (polyphenylene sulfide) fibers, polyimide fibers, PAN-based carbon fibers, pitch-diameter carbon fibers, glass fibers, boron fibers, silicon carbide fibers, etc.

[0096] The second fiber-containing resin member 232 is constructed to have higher strength compared to the first resin member 143. Here, "higher strength" means that at least one strength selected from, for example, tensile strength, compressive strength, and bending strength is relatively high.

[0097] The second fiber-containing resin member 232 may have a thickness of 1 mm or more and 5 mm or less in the vertical direction. More preferably, it is 2 mm or more and 4 mm or less.

[0098] The second fiber-containing resin member 232 is bonded to the lower cover 130 on the surface (upper surface) of the lower cover 130 that faces the energy storage cell 111.

[0099] The second fiber-containing resin member 232 is positioned to overlap the energy storage cell 111 in the vertical direction. It is also positioned to overlap the central part of the energy storage cell 111 in the horizontal direction with the vertical direction.

[0100] In the above example, the second fiber-containing resin member 232 is shown to be bonded to the lower cover 130 on the surface (upper surface) of the lower cover 130 facing the energy storage cell 111. However, the second fiber-containing resin member 232 may also be bonded to the upper surface of the first fiber-containing resin member 143. Furthermore, the second fiber-containing resin member 232 may be positioned between the lower cover 130 and the protective panel 140. In this case, the first fiber-containing resin member 143 is positioned between the lower cover 130 and the protective panel 140 and may be positioned above the second fiber-containing resin member 232, below the second fiber-containing resin member 232, or even below the protective panel 140.

[0101] (Effects and workings of Embodiment 2) Next, the operation and effects of the energy storage device 200 according to Embodiment 2 will be described.

[0102] In the energy storage device 200 according to Embodiment 2, as shown in Figure 7, a second fiber-containing resin member 232 is further provided, which is in contact with either the lower cover 130 or the protective panel 140, and is positioned to overlap both the energy storage cell 111 and the first fiber-containing resin member 143 when viewed from above. As a result, the strength is further improved by positioning the relatively stronger second fiber-containing resin member 232 in addition to the first fiber-containing resin member 143 below the energy storage cell 111. Therefore, when a load is applied to the energy storage device 100 from below, the impact on the inside of the energy storage device 100 can be further suppressed.

[0103] The embodiments disclosed herein are considered to be illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. It should be. The scope of this disclosure is indicated by the claims, and the meaning of the claims is equivalent to that of the claims. It is intended to include all changes within the scope. [Explanation of symbols]

[0104] 10. Vehicle frame 11 Center Module 11a Front frame member 11b Side frame member 11c Rear Frame Member 11d Front Cross Member 11e Rear Cross Member 12 Front Module 13 Rear Module 100 Energy storage devices 110 Energy Storage Modules 111 energy storage cells 112 End Plate 113 Side Plate 114 Busbar Module 115 Electrode terminal 116 Heat Conducting Member 117 Intermediate member 120 Upper Cover 121 Convex part 130 Lower Cover 131 Reinforce 140 protective panel 141 First resin component 142 Second resin component 143 First fiber-containing resin component 150 Battery equipment 160 Equipment Cover 232 Second fiber-containing resin component

Claims

1. Energy storage cells and A first cover positioned below the energy storage cell, A second cover positioned below the first cover, A first fiber-containing resin member is in contact with at least one of the first cover or the second cover, and is positioned to overlap the energy storage cell when viewed from above and below. A power storage device equipped with the following features.

2. The system comprises multiple of the aforementioned energy storage cells, The aforementioned plurality of energy storage cells are arranged in a line in the first direction, The first fiber-containing resin member extends in the first direction and, when viewed from the vertical direction, is arranged to overlap with the plurality of energy storage cells. The energy storage device according to claim 1.

3. The first fiber-containing resin member is positioned between the first cover and the second cover. The energy storage device according to claim 2.

4. The first reinforcement further extends in the first direction and is located on one side of a second direction perpendicular to the first direction of the energy storage cell, The first fiber-containing resin member has one end in the second direction that, when viewed from the vertical direction, overlaps with the first reinforcement. The energy storage device according to claim 2.

5. A vehicle-mounted structure for an energy storage device, comprising the energy storage device described in any one of claims 1 to 4, The vehicle, when viewed from the vertical direction of the vehicle, is arranged to overlap with the energy storage device and is equipped with a vehicle frame member that extends in the width direction of the vehicle. The first fiber-containing resin member is positioned to overlap with the vehicle frame member when viewed from the vertical direction of the vehicle. Vehicle-mounted structure for an energy storage device.

6. The energy storage device further comprises an energy storage module which includes a plurality of energy storage cells, The first fiber-containing resin member extends from the vehicle-front end of the energy storage module to the central part of the energy storage module in the vehicle-rear direction. Vehicle mounting structure for the energy storage device according to claim 5.

7. The aforementioned energy storage device includes a second reinforcement extending in the vehicle width direction, The first fiber-containing resin member extends from the vehicle-front end of the energy storage module to the second reinforcement. Vehicle mounting structure for the energy storage device according to claim 6.

8. The present invention further comprises a second fiber-containing resin member that is in contact with either the first cover or the second cover, and is positioned to overlap both the energy storage cell and the first fiber-containing resin member when viewed from above and below. The energy storage device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

Images