Electrode terminals and battery

Abstract

The characteristics of the electrode terminals of batteries with converted materials are improved. [Solution] The electrode terminal is electrically connected to the charge / discharge element of the battery and comprises a first member containing a first metal, a second member containing a first metal and having a first insertion part into which the first member is inserted, joined to the first member, and a third member containing a second metal of a different material from the first metal and having a second insertion part into which the first member is inserted, joined to the second member, the third member electrically connects one battery to another and is joined to the conductive member on the surface facing the conductive member, the first member has a main body inserted into the first insertion part and a projection that protrudes from the main body toward the third member, the projection of the first member and the third member are adjacent on the side of their opposing surfaces, and the surface of the projection opposite to the surface facing the conductive member faces the second member or is joined to the second member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electrode terminal and a battery.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a technique for changing the material of an electrode terminal of a battery is known (for example, refer to Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] There is a demand for improving the characteristics of electrode terminals of batteries with modified materials.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The electrode terminal is electrically connected to a charge-discharge body of a battery, and includes a first member containing a first metal, a second member that has a first insertion portion into which the first member is inserted, is joined to the first member, and contains the first metal, and a third member that has a second insertion portion into which the first member is inserted, is joined to the second member, and contains a second metal different in material from the first metal. The third member is joined to a conduction member containing the second metal that electrically connects one battery and another battery, on the surface facing the conduction member. The first member and the third member are adjacent to each other on the side of the facing surface. The first member has a main body portion inserted into the first insertion portion, and a protruding portion protruding from the main body portion toward the third member. The protruding portion has an outer peripheral portion facing the second insertion portion. The surface of the protruding portion on the side opposite to the surface facing the conduction member faces the second member or is joined to the second member. The first member is provided on the same plane as the third member on the side of the facing surface.

[0006] The electrode terminal is electrically connected to the battery's charge / discharge element and comprises a first member containing a first metal, a second member containing a first metal and having a first insertion portion into which the first member is inserted, joined to the first member, and a third member containing a second metal of a different material than the first metal and having a second insertion portion into which the first member is inserted, joined to the second member, the third member electrically connects one battery to another and is joined to the conductive member containing the second metal on the opposite surface of the conductive member, and the first member and the third member are on opposite sides of their opposing surfaces. The two members are adjacent to each other, and the first member has a main body inserted into the first insertion part and a projection that protrudes from the main body toward the third member, the projection having an outer circumference facing the second insertion part, the side of the projection opposite to the surface facing the conductive member facing the second member or being joined to the second member, the first member is partially recessed toward the opposite surface toward the conductive member, and the first member and the second member are laser-joined from the side of the opposite surface in the partially recessed portion of the first member.

[0007] The electrode terminal is electrically connected to the battery's charge / discharge element and comprises a first member containing a first metal, a second member containing a first metal and having a first insertion portion into which the first member is inserted, joined to the first member, and a third member containing a second metal of a different material than the first metal and having a second insertion portion into which the first member is inserted, joined to the second member, wherein the third member electrically connects one battery to another and has a conductive portion on the surface facing the conductive member containing the second metal. The first and third members are joined to the material, and are adjacent to each other on their opposing surfaces. The first member has a main body inserted into the first insertion part and a projection that protrudes from the main body toward the third member. The projection has an outer circumference facing the second insertion part, and the side of the projection opposite to the surface facing the conductive member faces the second member or is joined to the second member. The first and third members are separated when viewed from the stacking direction of the first and second members. The electrode terminal is electrically connected to the battery's charge / discharge element and comprises a first member containing a first metal, a second member containing a first metal and having a first insertion portion into which the first member is inserted, joined to the first member, and a third member containing a second metal of a different material than the first metal and having a second insertion portion into which the first member is inserted, joined to the second member, and the third member electrically connects one battery to another and, on the surface facing the conductive member containing the second metal, the conductive member The first member and the third member are joined together, and are adjacent to each other on their opposing surfaces. The first member has a main body inserted into the first insertion portion and a projection that protrudes from the main body toward the third member. The projection has an outer circumference facing the second insertion portion, and the surface of the projection opposite to the surface facing the conductive member faces the second member or is joined to the second member. The first member and the third member do not overlap in the stacking direction of the first member and the second member. The electrode terminal is electrically connected to the charge / discharge element of the battery and comprises a first member containing a first metal, a second member containing the first metal and having a first insertion portion into which the first member is inserted, joined to the first member, and a third member containing a second metal of a different material from the first metal and having a second insertion portion into which the first member is inserted, joined to the second member, wherein the third member electrically connects one of the batteries to the other and is joined to the conductive member containing the second metal on the surface facing the conductive member, the first member comprises a main body inserted into the first insertion portion and a projection protruding from the main body toward the third member, the projection of the first member and the third member are adjacent on the side of the opposing surface, and the surface of the projection opposite to the surface facing the conductive member faces the second member or is joined to the second member.

[0008] The battery has the aforementioned electrode terminals and a charge / discharge element electrically connected to the electrode terminals. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] The characteristics of the electrode terminals of a battery can be improved by changing the material. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] A perspective view showing battery 1 of the first embodiment. [Figure 2] A perspective view showing a cross-section of the components surrounding the negative terminal 420 of battery 1. [Figure 3] A side view showing the components of Figure 2. [Figure 4] A perspective view showing a cross-section of the components surrounding the positive terminal 410 of battery 1. [Figure 5] A side view showing the components of Figure 4. [Figure 6] A perspective view showing a partially disassembled battery 1. [Figure 7] A perspective view showing the charge / discharge unit 100 of battery 1. [Figure 8] A side view showing a cross-section of a portion of the charge / discharge unit 100 in Figure 7. [Figure 9] A side view showing a cross-section of a modified charge / discharge body 1100. [Figure 10] A perspective view showing the components surrounding the negative terminal 420 of battery 1, disassembled. [Figure 11] A perspective view showing the components surrounding the cleavage valve 530 and sealing plug 540 of battery 1, disassembled. [Figure 12] A perspective view showing the components surrounding the positive terminal 410 of battery 1, disassembled. [Figure 13] A perspective view showing a cross-sectional view of the negative terminal 420 of the first embodiment. [Figure 14] Figure 13 is a perspective view showing the negative terminal 420 in disassembled form. [Figure 15] A perspective view showing the connections between multiple batteries 1 and busbar 10. [Figure 16] An end view showing the negative terminal 420 and busbar 10 of the first embodiment. [Figure 17] An end view showing the negative terminal 430 and busbar 10 of the second embodiment. [Figure 18] An end view showing the negative terminal 440 and busbar 10 of the third embodiment. [Figure 19] An end view showing the negative terminal 450 and busbar 10 of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 20] An end view showing the negative electrode terminal 460 and the bus bar 20 of the fifth embodiment. [Figure 21] An end view showing the negative electrode terminal 470 and the bus bar 10 of the sixth embodiment. [Figure 22] An end view showing the negative electrode terminal 480 and the bus bar 10 of the seventh embodiment. [Figure 23] A perspective view showing the negative electrode terminal 490A of the eighth embodiment in cross section. [Figure 24] An exploded perspective view showing the negative electrode terminal 490A of Fig. 23. [Figure 25] A perspective view showing the negative electrode terminal 490B of a modification of the eighth embodiment in cross section. [Modes for Carrying Out the Invention]

[0011] Embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In order to facilitate understanding of each embodiment, the size and ratio of constituent members may be exaggerated in each drawing. In each drawing, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same configurations. In each drawing, the longitudinal direction X, the lateral direction Y, and the height direction Z of the battery 1 are indicated by arrows. In each drawing, the longitudinal direction X, the lateral direction Y, and the height direction Z of the battery 1 indicate relative positional relationships in the same drawing. That is, when the battery 1 is rotated 180 degrees and arranged with its top and bottom surfaces reversed, or when the battery 1 is rotated 90 degrees and arranged with its top surface as a side surface, the longitudinal direction X, the lateral direction Y, and the height direction Z of the battery 1 change.

[0012] (Configuration of the battery 1 provided with the negative electrode terminal 420 of the first embodiment) The configuration of the battery 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig. 16. Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the battery 1 of the first embodiment. Figure 2 is a perspective view showing a cross-section of the components around the negative electrode terminal 420 of the battery 1. Figure 3 is a side view showing the components of Figure 2. Figure 4 is a perspective view showing a cross-section of the components around the positive electrode terminal 410 of the battery 1. Figure 5 is a side view showing the components of Figure 4. Figure 6 is a perspective view showing the battery 1 partially disassembled. Figure 7 is a perspective view showing the charge / discharge body 100 of the battery 1. Figure 8 is a side view showing a cross-section of a part of the charge / discharge body 100 of Figure 7. Figure 9 is a side view showing a cross-section of a part of a modified charge / discharge body 1100. Figure 10 is a perspective view showing a disassembled view of the components around the negative electrode terminal 420 of the battery 1. Figure 11 is a perspective view showing a disassembled view of the components around the opening valve 530 and sealing plug 540 of the battery 1. Figure 12 is a perspective view showing a disassembled view of the components around the positive electrode terminal 410 of the battery 1.

[0013] The battery 1 includes a charge / discharge element 100 for charging and discharging electricity, a current collector 200 connected to the charge / discharge element 100, a current interrupter 300 connected to the current collector 200, electrode terminals 400 connected to the current collector 200 or the current interrupter 300, an outer casing 500 in which the components of the battery 1 are housed or attached, an insulator 600 that insulates the components of the battery 1 from the outer casing 500, and a sealant 700 that seals the components of the battery 1 from the outer casing 500.

[0014] The charge / discharge unit 100 charges and discharges electricity. The charge / discharge unit 100 shown in Figures 2 to 8 includes a positive electrode 110, a negative electrode 120, a separator 130, and an electrolyte 140. The charge / discharge unit 100 is constructed by winding together components, each consisting of a positive electrode 110, a separator 130, a negative electrode 120, and another separator 130, in that order, into a rectangular shape.

[0015] The positive electrode 110 includes a long positive electrode current collector layer 111 and a positive electrode active material layer 112 bonded to the positive electrode current collector layer 111. The positive electrode current collector layer 111 includes a current collector portion 111a and a positive electrode tab 111b. The positive electrode active material layer 112 is bonded to the current collector portion 111a. As shown in Figure 8, the positive electrode active material layer 112 faces, for example, the entire area along the short direction of the current collector portion 111a. The positive electrode tab 111b protrudes from the side edge 111c along the longitudinal direction of the current collector portion 111a in the short direction of the current collector portion 111a. The positive electrode tab 111b is formed integrally with the current collector portion 111a. Multiple positive electrode tabs 111b are formed on one current collector portion 111a. The current collector portion 111a is formed of, for example, aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The positive electrode active material layer 112 contains a positive electrode active material composed of a lithium-containing composite oxide, a binder, and a conductive additive. The lithium-containing composite oxide may include metallic elements such as nickel (Ni), cobalt (Co), and manganese (Mn), along with lithium (Li).

[0016] The negative electrode 120 includes a long negative electrode current collector layer 121 and a negative electrode active material layer 122 bonded to the negative electrode current collector layer 121. The negative electrode current collector layer 121 includes a current collector portion 121a and a negative electrode tab 121b. As shown in Figure 8, the current collector portion 121a of the negative electrode 120 is wider in the short direction compared to the current collector portion 111a of the positive electrode 110. The short-side ends of the current collector portion 111a of the positive electrode 110 are located within the short-side range of the current collector portion 121a of the negative electrode 120, via a separator 130. The negative electrode active material layer 122 is bonded to the current collector portion 121a. The negative electrode active material layer 122 faces, for example, the entire area of ​​the current collector portion 121a in the short direction. The negative electrode tab 121b protrudes from the side edge 121c along the longitudinal direction of the current collector 121a in the short direction of the current collector 121a. When stacked with the positive electrode 110 via the separator 130, the negative electrode tab 121b protrudes in the same direction as the positive electrode tab 111b of the positive electrode 110. When stacked with the positive electrode 110 via the separator 130, the negative electrode tab 121b is separated from the positive electrode tab 111b of the positive electrode 110. The negative electrode tab 121b is formed integrally with the current collector 121a. Multiple negative electrode tabs 121b are formed on a single current collector 121a. The current collector 121a is made of, for example, copper or a copper alloy. The negative electrode active material layer 122 contains a negative electrode active material composed of carbon-based materials, a binder, and a conductive additive, etc. Carbon-based materials include, for example, graphite.

[0017] The separator 130 insulates the positive electrode 110 and the negative electrode 120 while allowing lithium ions to pass through. The separator 130 is formed in a long, rectangular shape. As shown in Figure 8, the separator 130 has a longer width in the shorter direction compared to the current collector portion 111a of the positive electrode 110 and the current collector portion 121a of the negative electrode 120. Both ends of the current collector portion 111a of the positive electrode 110 and both ends of the current collector portion 121a of the negative electrode 120 are located within the range of the separator 130 in the shorter direction. The separator 130 is made of a porous material. Polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP) are used for the separator 130. A heat-resistant insulating material may be used instead of the separator 130. In such a configuration, the separator 130 is not essential.

[0018] Electrolyte 140 contains an organic solvent, a supporting salt, and additives. Electrolyte 140 is also referred to as an electrolyte solution. Examples of organic solvents include carbonate esters. Examples of supporting salts include lithium salts.

[0019] A modified example of the charge / discharge body 100, the charge / discharge body 1100, will be described with reference to Figure 9. The configuration of the positive electrode 1110 in the charge / discharge body 1100 differs from the configuration of the positive electrode 110 in the charge / discharge body 100. In the configuration of the charge / discharge body 1100, the same reference numerals are used for components that are the same as those in the charge / discharge body 100, and their explanation is omitted. The positive electrode active material layer 1112 of the charge / discharge body 1100 faces the portion of the current collector 111a excluding both ends along the short direction. The heat-resistant insulating layer 1113 of the charge / discharge body 1100 is joined to both ends along the short direction of the current collector 111a and to the base end portion of the positive electrode tab 111b.

[0020] The current collector 200 is connected to the charge / discharge unit 100. The current collector 200 is also called a current collector plate. The current collector 200 shown in Figures 2 to 5, 10 and 12 includes a positive electrode current collector plate 210 and a negative electrode current collector plate 220.

[0021] The positive electrode current collector plate 210 connects the positive electrode tab 111b of the charge / discharge body 100 to the positive electrode terminal 410 via the current interrupter 300. The positive electrode current collector plate 210 includes a rectangular plate-shaped first base portion 210a, a rectangular plate-shaped second base portion 210b, and a connecting portion 210c that connects the first base portion 210a and the second base portion 210b in a stepped manner with different heights. A recess 210d is formed on the upper surface of the second base portion 210b, which is configured to be thinner than the second base portion 210b. In the center of the recess 210d, a ring-shaped recess, a fragile portion 210e, is formed, which partially weakens the recess 210d. The positive electrode current collector plate 210 is made of, for example, aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0022] The negative electrode current collector plate 220 connects the negative electrode tab 121b of the charge / discharge body 100 with the negative electrode terminal 420. The negative electrode current collector plate 220 includes a rectangular plate-shaped base portion 220a and an insertion hole 220b that penetrates the base portion 220a. The insertion portion 420b of the negative electrode terminal 420 is inserted into the insertion hole 220b of the negative electrode current collector plate 220. The negative electrode current collector plate 220 is formed of, for example, copper or a copper alloy.

[0023] The current interrupter 300 separates from the positive electrode current collector plate 210 when the internal pressure of the battery 1 rises above a predetermined value, thereby opening the current path between the current collector 200 and the positive electrode terminal 410. When the internal pressure of the battery 1 is within the predetermined value, the current interrupter 300 maintains contact with the positive electrode current collector plate 210, thereby maintaining the current path between the current collector 200 and the positive electrode terminal 410. The current interrupter 300 is also referred to as a current interruption device (CID). The current interrupter 300 shown in Figures 4, 5 and 12 includes a diaphragm 310, a conductive member 320, and a pair of support bases 330.

[0024] The diaphragm 310 includes a curved cylindrical body portion 310a, a disc-shaped first joint portion 310b provided on the tip side of the body portion 310a, and a ring-shaped second joint portion 310c provided on the base side of the body portion 310a. The first joint portion 310b is joined to a recess 210d of the positive electrode current collector plate 210. The second joint portion 310c is joined to the conductive member 320. The diaphragm 310 separates from the positive electrode current collector plate 210 when the internal pressure of the battery 1 rises above a predetermined value. The diaphragm 310 is formed of, for example, aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0025] The conductive member 320 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The conductive member 320 includes a disc-shaped base 320a and an insertion hole 320b opening in the center of the base 320a. The upper surface of the conductive member 320 is joined to the positive electrode side first insulating plate 620. The peripheral edge of the lower surface of the conductive member 320 is joined to the second joint portion 310c of the diaphragm 310. The conductive member 320 is formed of, for example, aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0026] The support base 330 includes a rectangular main body 330a extending in the short direction of the battery 1, and legs 330b extending downward from both sides in the longitudinal direction of the main body 330a. One support base 330 is provided at each end of the diaphragm 310 along the longitudinal direction of the battery 1. The main body 330a is attached to the positive electrode side first insulating plate 620. The legs 330b are attached to the second base 210b of the positive electrode current collector plate 210. The support base 330 is formed of, for example, an insulating resin.

[0027] The electrode terminals 400 are connected to the current collector 200 or the current interrupter 300. The electrode terminals 400 shown in Figures 1 to 6, 10, and 12 to 16 include a positive electrode terminal 410 and a negative electrode terminal 420.

[0028] The positive terminal 410 is connected to the conductive member 320 of the current interrupter 300. The positive terminal 410 includes a rectangular plate-shaped base 410a, a cylindrical insertion portion 410b protruding downward from the base 410a, and a cylindrical joint portion 410c protruding downward from the periphery of the base 410a. The base 410a is in contact with the base 640a of the positive-side second insulating plate 640. The insertion portion 410b is inserted into the insertion hole 640b of the positive-side second insulating plate 640, the positive-side insertion hole 520a of the cover 520, the insertion hole 620b of the positive-side first insulating plate 620, and the insertion hole 320b of the conductive member 320. The joint portion 410c protrudes downward from the insertion hole 320b of the conductive member 320 and is expanded radially outward to join with the conductive member 320. In other words, the joint portion 410c is crimped to the periphery of the insertion hole 320b of the conductive member 320. Furthermore, the joint portion 410c is welded to the periphery of the insertion hole 320b of the conductive member 320. The positive electrode terminal 410 is formed of, for example, aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0029] (Configuration of negative terminal 420) The configuration of the negative electrode terminal 420 will be described with reference to Figures 13 to 16, etc. Figure 13 is a perspective view showing a cross-section of the negative electrode terminal 420 of the first embodiment. Figure 14 is a perspective view showing the negative electrode terminal 420 of Figure 13 in an exploded view. Figure 15 is a perspective view showing the connection between multiple batteries 1 and busbar 10. Figure 16 is an end view showing the negative electrode terminal 420 and busbar 10 of the first embodiment.

[0030] The negative electrode terminal 420 is an electrode terminal. As shown in Figure 14, the negative electrode terminal 420 includes a first member 421, a second member 422, and a third member 423.

[0031] The first member 421 is electrically connected to the charge / discharge body 100 of the battery 1 via the negative electrode current collector plate 220. The first member 421 contains a first metal. The first metal is, for example, copper or a copper alloy. That is, the first member 421 is formed from a material containing copper or a copper alloy.

[0032] As shown in Figures 14 and 16, the first member 421 includes a head portion 421a, a main body portion 421b, and a leg portion 421c. As shown in Figure 14, the head portion 421a is formed in a cylindrical shape. The head portion 421a has an opposing portion 421a1 that faces the busbar 10 along the height direction Z of the battery 1, and an outer peripheral portion 421a2 that faces the second member 422 along the longitudinal direction X and the short direction Y of the battery 1. The head portion 421a may also be formed in a plate shape.

[0033] The main body portion 421b of the first member 421 is formed in a cylindrical shape, as shown in Figure 14. The main body portion 421b is formed integrally with the head portion 421a and is connected to the head portion 421a in a concentric manner. Compared to the head portion 421a, the main body portion 421b has a smaller diameter and a longer length along the height direction Z of the battery 1. The main body portion 421b has an outer peripheral portion 421b1 that faces the third member 423 along the longitudinal direction X and the short direction Y of the battery 1. The main body portion 421b may be formed in a plate shape.

[0034] The leg portion 421c of the first member 421 is formed in a cylindrical shape, as shown in Figure 14. The leg portion 421c is formed integrally with the main body portion 421b and is connected to the main body portion 421b in a concentric manner. The leg portion 421c has the same outer diameter as the main body portion 421b. The leg portion 421c faces the head portion 421a via the main body portion 421b. As shown in Figure 14, the leg portion 421c is bent outward so that the diameter of the leg portion 421c increases and is crimped and joined to the negative electrode current collector plate 220. The leg portion 421c may be laser-joined to the negative electrode current collector plate 220. The leg portion 421c may be laser-joined while it is crimped and joined to the negative electrode current collector plate 220.

[0035] The second member 422 is joined to the first member 421, as shown in Figures 14 and 16. The second member 422 contains a first metal; that is, the second member 422 is formed from a material containing copper or a copper alloy.

[0036] As shown in Figure 14, the second member 422 is formed in a plate shape. The second member 422 is provided with a first insertion portion 422a. The first member 421 is inserted into the first insertion portion 422a. In the second member 422, the inner circumferential surface of the first insertion portion 422a faces the outer circumferential portion 421b1 of the main body portion 421b.

[0037] As shown in Figure 16, the second member 422 is laser-bonded to the first member 421 at the welded joint S from the side facing the busbar 10 P. The second member 422 and the first member 421 are laser-bonded in a stacked state along the height direction Z of the battery 1, that is, in a state where they are superimposed along the height direction Z of the battery 1. The opposing surface P is the surface on which the negative electrode terminal 420 faces the busbar 10. The second member 422 is laser-bonded in an annular manner to the head 431a of the first member 421. The second member 422 and the first member 421 may also be laser-bonded linearly or in an arc along the short direction Y or long direction X of the battery 1 as shown in Figure 15. The second member 422 and the first member 421 may also be laser-bonded in a point manner. The second member 422 may be formed in a cylindrical shape.

[0038] The third member 423 is joined to the second member 422, as shown in Figures 14 and 16. The third member 423 contains a second metal of a different material than the first metal. The second metal is, for example, aluminum or an aluminum alloy. That is, the third member 423 is formed from a material containing aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The third member 423, formed from aluminum or the like, and the second member 422, formed from copper or the like, are formed from clad material. That is, the third member 423 and the second member 422 are interatomically joined. The third member 423 and the second member 422 may also be crimped together. The third member 423 and the second member 422 may also be formed by a non-fusion joint with superior durability other than interatomic joining. The third member 423 and the second member 422 may also be formed by a weld with superior durability.

[0039] As shown in Figure 14, the third member 423 is formed in a plate shape. As shown in Figure 14, the third member 423 has a facing portion 423a that faces the busbar 10 along the height direction Z of the battery 1. The third member 423 has a second insertion portion 423b. The first member 421 is inserted into the second insertion portion 423b. In the third member 423, the inner circumferential surface of the second insertion portion 423b faces the outer circumferential portion 421b1 of the main body portion 421b.

[0040] As shown in Figure 16, the third member 423 is provided on the same plane as the first member 421 on the side facing the busbar 10 P. As shown in Figure 16, the third member 423 is separated from the first member 421 in the stacking direction (height direction Z) of the first member 421 and the second member 422. In other words, the third member 423 does not directly or indirectly overlap with the first member 421 in the height direction Z of the battery 1.

[0041] As shown in Figure 16, the third member 423 is adjacent to the first member 421 on the side facing the busbar 10 P, along the longitudinal direction X or the short direction Y of the battery 1. The third member 423 and the first member 421 face each other on the surface along the busbar 10 P without any other components of the negative electrode terminal 420 in between. The third member 423 and the first member 421 face each other in a non-contact state, i.e., with a gap between them. The gap is, for example, several tens of micrometers to several hundred micrometers. The gap may also be, for example, several hundred micrometers to several millimeters. The spacing may be configured to be less than or equal to the thickness in the stacking direction (height direction) of the inner circumferential surface of the second insertion portion 423b of the third member 423. From the viewpoint of the rigidity of the negative electrode terminal 420, the gap may also be configured to be less than or equal to the thickness (height direction Z) of the second member 422. The gap may be configured to be the distance between the outer periphery 421b1 of the first member 421 and the first insertion portion 422a of the second member 422, from the viewpoint of ease of assembly of the negative electrode terminal 420 and stress relief. The third member 423 and the first member 421 may be placed facing each other in a state of contact, that is, without a gap.

[0042] As shown in Figure 16, the third member 423 is laser-bonded to the busbar 10 at the weld T on the side facing the busbar 10 (P). The third member 423 and the busbar 10 are laser-bonded in a stacked state, i.e., superimposed state, along the height direction Z of the battery 1. The third member 423 is joined to the busbar 10 at two or more locations that straddle the first member 421 along a direction intersecting the height direction Z. The direction intersecting the height direction Z is the short-side direction Y or the long-side direction X of the battery 1. The third member 423 and the busbar 10 are laser-bonded in a point-like, linear, arc-like, or annular manner.

[0043] As shown in Figure 16, the third member 423 is joined to the busbar 10 on the surface P facing the busbar 10. As shown in Figure 16, the first member 421 and the third member 423 are adjacent to each other along the longitudinal direction X or the short direction Y of the battery 1 on the side facing the busbar 10 P. That is, the first member 421 and the third member 423 face each other on the surface along the surface P facing the busbar 10, without any other components of the negative electrode terminal 420 in between. When viewed from the side facing the busbar 10 P, the first member 421 and the third member 423 are not sandwiching any other components of the negative electrode terminal 420.

[0044] The first member 421 and the third member 423 are facing each other in a state where they are not in contact, that is, with a partial gap along the annular shape. The gap is, for example, several micrometers to several hundred micrometers. The gap may also be, for example, several hundred micrometers to several millimeters.

[0045] The first member 421 and the third member 423 may be positioned opposite each other in a state where they are not in contact at all, that is, with a circular gap between them.

[0046] The first member 421 and the third member 423 may be placed facing each other in a state of contact, that is, without any gap between them.

[0047] In this configuration, if there is no gap between the first member 421 and the third member 423, when the first member 421 and the third member 423 are viewed from the side facing the busbar 10 (P), the second member 422 will not be present in the gap between the first member 421 and the third member 423. Such a configuration is included in the configuration where the first member 421 and the third member 423 are adjacent to each other along the longitudinal direction X or the short direction Y of the battery 1 on the side facing the busbar 10 (P).

[0048] Furthermore, even in configurations where there is a gap between the first member 421 and the third member 423, but this gap is not visible to the naked eye, if the first member 421 and the third member 423 are viewed from the side facing the busbar 10 (P), the second member 422 will not be present in the gap between the first member 421 and the third member 423. Such configurations are also included in configurations where the first member 421 and the third member 423 are adjacent to each other along the longitudinal direction X or the short direction Y of the battery 1 on the side facing the busbar 10 (P). The gap that is not visible to the naked eye is, for example, several micrometers to several tens of micrometers.

[0049] On the other hand, in the case where a visually recognizable gap is provided between the first member 421 and the third member 423, if the first member 421 and the third member 423 are viewed from the side facing the busbar 10 P, the second member 422 may be visible through the gap between the first member 421 and the third member 423. Such a configuration is included in the configuration in which the first member 421 and the third member 423 are adjacent to each other along the longitudinal direction X or the short direction Y of the battery 1 on the side facing the busbar 10 P. In other words, even if the presence of another member such as the second member 422 is recognized through the gap between the first member 421 and the third member 423, a configuration in which the other member is located below the first member 421 or the third member is included in the configuration in which the first member 421 and the third member 423 are adjacent to each other along the longitudinal direction X or the short direction Y of the battery 1 on the side facing the busbar 10 P.

[0050] At the negative terminal 420, the first member 421 and the second member 422 are electrically connected by an overlapping bond in the height direction Z of the battery 1. The second member 422 and the third member 423 are electrically connected by being made of cladding material.

[0051] The outer casing 500 houses or mounts the components of the battery 1. The outer casing 500 shown in Figures 1 to 6 and Figures 10 to 12 includes a container 510, a lid 520, a detachable valve 530, and a sealing plug 540.

[0052] The container 510 houses the charge / discharge unit 100, etc. The container 510 is made of a rectangular metal can. The container 510 includes an opening 510a that opens along the longitudinal direction and a housing section 510b that is connected to the opening 510a. The container 510 is made of, for example, aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0053] The lid 520 seals the opening 510a of the container 510. The container 510 is formed from a long, plate-shaped metal sheet. The lid 520 has a positive electrode insertion hole 520a, which is a circular through-hole, at one end in the longitudinal direction. The insertion portion 410b of the positive electrode terminal 410 is inserted into the positive electrode insertion hole 520a. The lid 520 has a negative electrode insertion hole 520b, which is a circular through-hole, at the other end in the longitudinal direction. The insertion portion 420b of the negative electrode terminal 420 is inserted into the negative electrode insertion hole 520b. Between the positive electrode insertion hole 520a and the negative electrode insertion hole 520b, the lid 520 has a liquid injection insertion hole 520c, which is a circular through-hole. The insertion portion 540b of the sealing plug 540 is inserted into the liquid injection insertion hole 520c. The lid 520 is welded to the container 510. The lid 520 is made of, for example, aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0054] As shown in Figure 11, the rupture valve 530 is integrally formed with the lid 520. The rupture valve 530 ruptures when the internal pressure of the battery 1 reaches a predetermined value, thereby reducing the internal pressure of the battery 1 to atmospheric pressure. The rupture valve 530 is also called a safety valve.

[0055] As shown in Figure 6, the sealing plug 540 seals the liquid injection hole 520c of the lid 520. The sealing plug 540 is formed in a cylindrical shape. As shown in Figure 11, the sealing plug 540 includes a head 540a with a relatively large outer diameter and an insertion portion 540b that is continuous with the head 540a and has a relatively smaller outer diameter. The head 540a of the sealing plug 540 is welded to the lid 520. The sealing plug 540 is formed of, for example, aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0056] The insulator 600 insulates the components of the battery 1 from the outer casing 500. The insulator 600 shown in Figures 2 to 5, 10 and 12 includes an insulating cover 610, a positive electrode side first insulating plate 620, a negative electrode side first insulating plate 630, a positive electrode side second insulating plate 640, and a negative electrode side second insulating plate 650.

[0057] The insulating cover 610 covers the charge / discharge element 100. The insulating cover 610 exposes one side 100a of the charge / discharge element 100 to the outside, while covering the rest of the charge / discharge element 100. The insulating cover 610 is formed, for example, in a pentahedral shape and is constructed by folding into a box shape. The insulating cover 610 is made of, for example, polypropylene.

[0058] The positive electrode side first insulating plate 620 insulates the positive electrode current collector plate 210 and the conductive member 320 from the lid 520. The positive electrode side first insulating plate 620 includes a rectangular plate-shaped base portion 620a, an insertion hole 620b that penetrates the base portion 620a, and a protrusion 620c that surrounds the side edge of the base portion 620a in an annular shape and protrudes away from the lid 520. The positive electrode side first insulating plate 620 houses the positive electrode current collector plate 210 and the conductive member 320, etc., in the space formed by the base portion 620a and the protrusion 620c. The insertion portion 410b of the positive electrode terminal 410 is inserted into the insertion hole 620b. The positive electrode side first insulating plate 620 is formed of, for example, an insulating resin.

[0059] The negative electrode side first insulating plate 630 insulates the negative electrode current collector plate 220 from the cover 520. The negative electrode side first insulating plate 630 includes a rectangular plate-shaped base portion 630a, an insertion hole 630b that penetrates the base portion 630a, and a protrusion 630c that surrounds the side edge of the base portion 630a in an annular shape and protrudes away from the cover 520. The negative electrode current collector plate 220 is housed in the space formed by the base portion 630a and the protrusion 630c of the negative electrode side first insulating plate 630. The insertion portion 420b of the negative electrode terminal 420 is inserted into the insertion hole 630b. The negative electrode side first insulating plate 630 is formed of, for example, an insulating resin.

[0060] The positive electrode side second insulating plate 640 insulates the positive electrode terminal 410 from the cover 520. The positive electrode side second insulating plate 640 includes a rectangular plate-shaped base portion 640a, an insertion hole 640b that penetrates the base portion 640a, and a protrusion 640c that surrounds the side edge of the base portion 640a in an annular shape and protrudes away from the cover 520. The positive electrode terminal 410 is housed in the space formed by the base portion 640a and the protrusion 640c of the positive electrode side second insulating plate 640. The insertion portion 410b of the positive electrode terminal 410 is inserted into the insertion hole 640b. The positive electrode side second insulating plate 640 is formed of, for example, an insulating resin.

[0061] The negative electrode side second insulating plate 650 insulates the negative electrode terminal 420 from the cover 520. The negative electrode side second insulating plate 650 includes a rectangular plate-shaped base portion 650a, an insertion hole 650b that penetrates the base portion 650a, and a protrusion 650c that surrounds the side edge of the base portion 650a in an annular shape and protrudes away from the cover 520. The negative electrode terminal 420 is housed in the space formed by the base portion 650a and the protrusion 650c of the negative electrode side second insulating plate 650. The insertion portion 420b of the negative electrode terminal 420 is inserted into the insertion hole 650b. The negative electrode side second insulating plate 650 is formed of, for example, an insulating resin.

[0062] The sealing body 700 seals the components of the battery 1 and the outer casing 500. The sealing body 700 shown in Figures 2 to 5, 10 and 12 includes a positive electrode gasket 710 and a negative electrode gasket 720.

[0063] The positive electrode gasket 710 seals the cover 520 on the positive electrode terminal 410 side, thereby sealing the outer casing 500. The positive electrode gasket 710 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The positive electrode gasket 710 includes a first insertion portion 710a with a relatively large outer diameter, a second insertion portion 710b that is continuous with the first insertion portion 710a and has a relatively smaller outer diameter, and an insertion hole 710c that penetrates the first insertion portion 710a and the second insertion portion 710b. As shown in Figure 5, the positive electrode gasket 710 is provided between the positive electrode terminal 410 and the positive electrode current collector plate 210. The first insertion portion 710a is inserted into the insertion hole 620b of the positive electrode side first insulating plate 620 shown in Figure 12. The second insertion portion 710b is inserted into the positive electrode side insertion hole 520a of the lid 520 shown in Figure 12 and the insertion hole 640b of the positive electrode side second insulating plate 640. The insertion portion 410b of the positive electrode terminal 410 shown in Figure 12 is inserted into the insertion hole 710c. The positive electrode side gasket 710 is formed of, for example, rubber that has insulating and elastic properties.

[0064] The negative electrode gasket 720 seals the cover 520 on the side of the negative electrode terminal 420, thereby sealing the outer casing 500. The negative electrode gasket 720 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The negative electrode gasket 720 includes a first insertion portion 720a with a relatively large outer diameter, a second insertion portion 720b that is continuous with the first insertion portion 720a and has a relatively smaller outer diameter, and an insertion hole 720c that penetrates the first insertion portion 720a and the second insertion portion 720b. As shown in Figure 3, the negative electrode gasket 720 is provided between the second member 422 of the negative electrode terminal 420 and the negative electrode current collector plate 220. The first insertion portion 720a is inserted into the insertion hole 630b of the negative electrode side first insulating plate 630 shown in Figure 11. The second insertion portion 720b is inserted into the negative electrode side insertion hole 520b of the lid 520 shown in Figure 11 and the insertion hole 650b of the negative electrode side second insulating plate 650. The main body portion 421b of the first member 421 of the negative electrode terminal 420 shown in Figure 11 is inserted into the insertion hole 720c. The negative electrode side gasket 720 is formed of, for example, rubber that has insulating and elastic properties.

[0065] (Bass 10 configuration) The busbar 10 is a conductive member. As shown in Figure 15, the busbar 10 electrically connects one battery 1 and another battery 1 adjacent to each other along the short direction Y of the battery 1. The busbar 10 contains a second metal. That is, the busbar 10 is formed from a material containing aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The busbar 10 containing aluminum, etc., is joined to the positive terminal 410 of one battery 1, which also contains aluminum, etc., and to the negative terminal 420 of the other battery 1, which also contains aluminum, etc.

[0066] (Effects of the negative terminal 420 and battery 1 equipped with the negative terminal 420) The effects of the negative terminal 420 of the first embodiment and the battery 1 equipped with the negative terminal 420 will be explained with reference to Figure 16, etc.

[0067] At the electrode terminals included in the battery 1, the third member 423 is joined to the busbar 10 on the surface P facing the busbar 10. As shown in Figure 16, the first member 421 and the third member 423 are adjacent to each other along the longitudinal direction X or the short direction Y of the battery 1 on the side facing the busbar 10 P.

[0068] This configuration makes it possible to improve the characteristics of the electrode terminals included in the battery 1. Specifically, for example, in the electrode terminal, the first member 421 is connected to the charge / discharge unit 100, and the third member 423 is connected to the busbar 10. Therefore, by arranging the first member 421 and the third member 423 of the electrode terminal adjacent to each other, the area of ​​the electrode terminal in the region along the opposing surface P can be reduced. In other words, the electrode terminal can be made smaller along the opposing surface P.

[0069] The electrode terminal is applied to the negative electrode terminal 420. With this configuration, the negative electrode terminal 420, which has been converted from a copper material to an aluminum-containing material, can be sufficiently joined to the aluminum-containing busbar 10.

[0070] At the negative terminal 420, the first member 421 and the second member 422 are laser-bonded. With this configuration, the first member 421 and the second member 422 can be sufficiently bonded using the highly versatile bonding method of laser bonding.

[0071] In the negative electrode terminal 420, the first member 421 and the second member 422 are laser-bonded from the side of the opposing surface P. The opposing surface P is the surface on which the negative electrode terminal 420 faces the busbar 10. With this configuration, it is not necessary to consider interference between the components of the negative electrode terminal 420 located on the side of the non-opposing surface Q and the laser beam. The components are, for example, the main body portion 421b and the leg portion 421c of the first member 421.

[0072] The first member 421 of the negative terminal 420 is provided on the same plane as the third member 423 on the side facing the busbar 10 P. "On the same plane" is defined considering the manufacturing tolerances of the external shapes of the first member 421 and the third member 423. That is, "on the same plane" includes cases where the first member 421 protrudes from the third member 423 by several micrometers to several hundred micrometers. Similarly, "on the same plane" includes cases where the third member 423 protrudes from the first member 421 by several micrometers to several hundred micrometers. "On the same plane" defines the positional relationship between the first member 421 and the third member 423 such that the third member 423 and the busbar 10 can be joined in a state of at least partial contact. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent a gap from occurring between the first member 411 and the busbar 10 when the busbar 10 and the third member 423 are joined. Furthermore, with this configuration, even when the busbar 10 and the third member 423 are laser-bonded, sputter generated during laser bonding can be prevented from entering the gap between the first member 411 and the busbar 10. Also, with this configuration, when the busbar 10 and the third member 423 are bonded, the first member 421 does not protrude further toward the busbar 10 than the third member 423. In other words, a gap between the third member 423 and the busbar 10 can be prevented. Therefore, the third member 423 and the busbar 10 can be sufficiently bonded.

[0073] In the negative electrode terminal 420, the first member 421 and the third member 423 are separated in the stacking direction (height direction Z) between the first member 421 and the second member 422. The first member 421 and the third member 423 do not directly overlap in the height direction Z. The first member 421 and the third member 423 do not indirectly overlap in the height direction Z through other members. That is, in the portion where the third member 423 that is joined to the busbar 10 is located, the third member 423 overlaps only with the second member 422 in the height direction Z. With this configuration, the thickness of the negative electrode terminal 420 in the stacking direction (height direction Z) can be suppressed in the portion where the third member 423 that is joined to the busbar 10 is located.

[0074] At the negative terminal 420, the third member 423 and the busbar 10 are joined at two or more locations that span the first member 421. With this configuration, even if stress is generated in the busbar 10 due to, for example, expansion and contraction of the battery 1, delamination between the third member 423 and the busbar 10 can be suppressed.

[0075] In the negative electrode terminal 420, the second member 422 and the third member 423 are formed from clad material. With this configuration, the second member 422 and the third member 423 can be sufficiently joined. In particular, with this configuration, members made of different materials, such as the second member 422 made of copper and the like, and the third member 423 made of aluminum, can be sufficiently joined.

[0076] (Negative terminal 430 of the second embodiment) (Configuration of negative terminal 430) The configuration of the negative terminal 430 in the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 17. Figure 17 is an end view showing the negative terminal 430 and busbar 10 in the second embodiment.

[0077] The negative electrode terminal 430 is an electrode terminal. For the negative electrode terminal 430, if it has the same configuration as the negative electrode terminal 420, the same reference numeral is used and the explanation is omitted. For the negative electrode terminal 430, if it has a different configuration from the negative electrode terminal 420, a different reference numeral is used and the explanation is omitted.

[0078] As shown in Figure 17, the negative electrode terminal 430 includes a first member 421, a second member 422, and a third member 423. As shown in Figure 17, the second member 422 is laser-bonded to the first member 421 at the weld U from the side of the non-facing surface Q. The non-facing surface Q is the surface opposite to the facing surface P on which the negative electrode terminal 430 faces the busbar 10. The second member 422 is laser-bonded in an annular manner to the head 431a of the first member 421. The second member 422 and the first member 421 may be laser-bonded linearly or in an arc along the short direction Y or the long direction X of the battery 1 shown in Figure 1. The second member 422 and the first member 421 may be laser-bonded in a point manner. The second member 422 may be formed in a cylindrical shape.

[0079] (Effect of negative terminal 430) The effect of the negative terminal 430 in the second embodiment will be explained with reference to Figure 17.

[0080] In the negative electrode terminal 430, the first member 421 and the second member 422 are laser-bonded from the non-opposing surface Q side. The non-opposing surface Q is the surface opposite to the opposing surface P on which the negative electrode terminal 430 faces the busbar 10. With this configuration, the influence of laser bonding on the non-opposing surface Q side can be suppressed in the bonding between the negative electrode terminal 430 located on the opposing surface P side and the busbar 10. Furthermore, with this configuration, the influence of laser bonding on the non-opposing surface Q side on the constituent members of the negative electrode terminal 430 located on the opposing surface P side can be suppressed.

[0081] (Negative terminal 440 of the third embodiment) (Configuration of negative terminal 440) The configuration of the negative terminal 440 of the third embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 18. Figure 18 is an end view showing the negative terminal 440 and busbar 10 of the third embodiment.

[0082] The negative electrode terminal 440 is an electrode terminal. For the negative electrode terminal 440, if it has the same configuration as the negative electrode terminal 420, the same reference numeral is used and the explanation is omitted. For the negative electrode terminal 440, if it has a different configuration from the negative electrode terminal 420, a different reference numeral is used and the explanation is omitted.

[0083] The negative terminal 440 is partially recessed toward the direction away from the busbar 10 relative to the surface P facing the busbar 10. As shown in Figure 18, the negative terminal 440 includes a first member 441, a second member 422, and a third member 423.

[0084] The first member 441 contains a first metal; that is, the first member 441 is formed from a material containing copper or a copper alloy.

[0085] The first member 441 is partially recessed in the direction away from the busbar 10. As shown in Figure 18, the first member 441 includes a head portion 441a, a body portion 421b, and a leg portion 421c. The head portion 441a has a facing portion 441a1 that faces the busbar 10 along the height direction Z of the battery 1, and an outer peripheral portion 441a2 that faces the second member 422 along the longitudinal direction X and the short direction Y of the battery 1. The length of the head portion 441a along the stacking direction (height direction Z) is shorter than that of the head portion 421a of the first member 421. That is, in the first member 441, the head portion 441a is recessed in the direction away from the busbar 10. There is a gap between the first member 441 and the busbar 10.

[0086] (Effect of negative terminal 440) The effect of the negative terminal 440 in the third embodiment will be explained with reference to Figure 18.

[0087] The negative terminal 440 is partially recessed in the direction away from the busbar 10. With this configuration, when the negative terminal 440 and the busbar 10 are joined, interference between the portion of the negative terminal 440 that does not actively join with the busbar 10 and the busbar 10 can be suppressed. The portion of the negative terminal 440 that is electrically conductive with the busbar 10 is the third member 423. Therefore, by partially recessing the first member 441 in the direction away from the busbar 10, interference between the first member 441 and the busbar 10 can be suppressed when the third member 423 and the busbar 10 are joined.

[0088] The second member 442 may also be recessed in a direction away from the busbar 10. In this case, interference between the second member 442 and the busbar 10 can be suppressed when the third member 423 and the busbar 10 are joined together.

[0089] (Negative terminal 450 of the fourth embodiment) (Configuration of the 450 negative terminals) The configuration of the negative terminal 450 of the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 19. Figure 19 is an end view showing the negative terminal 450 and busbar 10 of the fourth embodiment.

[0090] The negative electrode terminal 450 is an electrode terminal. For the negative electrode terminal 450, if it has the same configuration as the negative electrode terminal 420, the same reference numeral is used and the explanation is omitted. For the negative electrode terminal 450, if it has a different configuration from the negative electrode terminal 420, a different reference numeral is used and the explanation is omitted.

[0091] As shown in Figure 19, the negative terminal 450 includes a first member 451, a second member 422, and a third member 423.

[0092] The first member 451 contains a first metal; that is, the first member 451 is formed from a material containing copper or a copper alloy.

[0093] As shown in Figure 19, the first member 451 includes a head portion 451a, a main body portion 421b, and a leg portion 421c. The head portion 451a has an opposing portion 451a1 that faces the busbar 10 along the height direction Z of the battery 1, and an outer peripheral portion 451a2 that faces the second member 422 along the longitudinal direction X and the short direction Y of the battery 1. The head portion 451a has a recess 451a3. The recess 451a3 is a portion of the opposing portion 451a1 of the first member 451 that is partially recessed. The recess 451a3 of the first member 451 and the second member 422 are laser-bonded from the side of the surface facing the busbar 10. The recess 451a3 is laser-bonded to the opposing portion 451a1 in an annular shape. The recess 451a3 may also be laser-bonded to the opposing portion 451a1 in an arc shape. In other words, the recess 451a3 may be intermittently laser-bonded to the opposing portion 451a1.

[0094] (Effect of negative terminal 450) The effect of the negative terminal 450 in the fourth embodiment will be explained with reference to Figure 19.

[0095] At the negative electrode terminal 450, the first member 451 and the second member 422 are laser-bonded from the side facing the busbar 10 at the recess 451a3 of the first member 451. With this configuration, the sputter generated during laser bonding can be contained in the recess 451a3 while maintaining the rigidity of the first member 451. Therefore, for example, when the first member 451 is crimp-bonded to the negative electrode current collector plate 220, deformation of the first member 451 can be suppressed. In the first member 451, it is preferable that the recess 451a3 be located outside the main body portion 421b. This suppresses the transmission of stress generated when the first member 451 and the negative electrode current collector plate 220 are crimp-bonded to the recess 451a3.

[0096] (Negative terminal 460 of the fifth embodiment) (Configuration of 460 negative terminals) The configuration of the negative terminal 460 of the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 20. Figure 20 is an end view showing the negative terminal 460 and busbar 20 of the fifth embodiment.

[0097] The negative electrode terminal 460 is an electrode terminal. For the negative electrode terminal 460, if it has the same configuration as the negative electrode terminal 420, the same reference numeral is used and the explanation is omitted. For the negative electrode terminal 460, if it has a different configuration from the negative electrode terminal 420, a different reference numeral is used and the explanation is omitted.

[0098] The negative terminal 460 partially protrudes beyond the surface P facing the busbar 20 and toward the busbar 20. Here, unlike the busbar 10, the busbar 20 has a recess 20a on the side facing the surface P that accommodates the first member 461. As shown in Figure 20, the negative terminal 460 includes a first member 451, a second member 422, and a third member 423.

[0099] The first member 461 contains a first metal. That is, the first member 461 is formed from a material containing copper or a copper alloy.

[0100] As shown in Figure 20, the first member 461 includes a head portion 461a, a main body portion 421b, and a leg portion 421c. The head portion 461a has a facing portion 461a1 that faces the busbar 10 along the height direction Z of the battery 1, and an outer peripheral portion 461a2 that faces the second member 422 along the longitudinal direction X and the short direction Y of the battery 1. The head portion 461a is longer in length along the stacking direction (height direction Z) than the head portion 421a of the first member 421. That is, in the first member 461, the head portion 461a protrudes in a direction approaching the recess 20a of the busbar 20. A gap is provided between the first member 461 and the recess 20a of the busbar 20. A gap is not required between the first member 461 and the recess 20a of the busbar 20.

[0101] (Effect of negative terminal 460) The effect of the negative terminal 460 in the fifth embodiment will be explained with reference to Figure 20.

[0102] The negative terminal 460 partially protrudes beyond the surface P facing the busbar 20, and in a direction toward the busbar 20. The busbar 20 is provided with a recess 20a that accommodates the first member 461. With this configuration, when joining the negative terminal 460 and the busbar 10, the third member 453 and the busbar 20 can be joined even if the first member 461 protrudes further toward the busbar 20 than the third member 453. In other words, the specifications and manufacturing tolerances of the first member 461 can be mitigated.

[0103] The second member 442 may also be made to protrude beyond the surface P facing the busbar 20 and toward the busbar 20. The busbar 20 is configured to have a recess for accommodating the second member 442. In this case, interference between the second member 442 and the busbar 20 can be suppressed when joining the third member 453 and the busbar 20. That is, the specifications and manufacturing tolerances of the second member 442 can be mitigated.

[0104] (Negative terminal 470 of the sixth embodiment) (Configuration of negative terminal 470) The configuration of the negative terminal 470 of the sixth embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 21. Figure 21 is an end view showing the negative terminal 470 and busbar 10 of the sixth embodiment.

[0105] The negative electrode terminal 470 is an electrode terminal. For the negative electrode terminal 470, if it has the same configuration as the negative electrode terminal 420, the same reference numeral is used and the explanation is omitted. For the negative electrode terminal 470, if it has a different configuration from the negative electrode terminal 420, a different reference numeral is used and the explanation is omitted.

[0106] As shown in Figure 21, the negative electrode terminal 470 includes a first member 421, a second member 422, and a third member 423. In the negative electrode terminal 470, the first member 421 and the second member 422 are crimped together. Alternatively, in the negative electrode terminal 470, the first member 421 and the second member 422 may be crimped together and then laser-bonded.

[0107] (Effect of negative terminal 470) The effect of the negative terminal 470 in the sixth embodiment will be explained with reference to Figure 21.

[0108] At the negative terminal 470, the first member 421 and the second member 422 are crimped together. With this configuration, the first member 421 and the second member 422 can be joined by applying mechanical stress to them.

[0109] In the negative terminal 470, the first member 421 and the second member 422 may be crimped together, and then the first member 421 and the second member 422 may be laser-bonded. With such a configuration, the first member 421 and the second member 422 can be bonded even more securely.

[0110] (Negative terminal 480 of the seventh embodiment) (Configuration of 480 negative terminals) The configuration of the negative terminal 480 of the seventh embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 22. Figure 22 is an end view showing the negative terminal 480 and busbar 10 of the seventh embodiment.

[0111] The negative electrode terminal 480 is an electrode terminal. For negative electrode terminal 480, if it has the same configuration as negative electrode terminal 420, the same reference numeral is used and the explanation is omitted. For negative electrode terminal 480, if it has a different configuration from negative electrode terminal 420, a different reference numeral is used and the explanation is omitted.

[0112] As shown in Figure 22, the negative terminal 480 includes a first member 421, a second member 482, and a third member 483.

[0113] The second member 482 is joined to the first member 421. The second member 482 contains a first metal; that is, the second member 482 is formed of a material containing copper or a copper alloy. The second member 482 has a stepped portion 482b formed by a partial recess on the side of the second member 482 facing the busbar 10. The second member 482 and the first member 421 are adjacent to each other along the stacking direction (height direction Z) via the stepped portion 482b. That is, the second member 482 and the first member 421 are facing each other in a direction intersecting the stacking direction (height direction Z). The thickness of the stepped portion 482b of the second member 482 in the stacking direction (height direction Z) corresponds to the thickness of the second member 422.

[0114] The third member 483 is joined to the second member 482. The third member 483 contains a second metal; that is, the third member 483 is formed from a material containing aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The third member 483 is formed to be thinner than the third member 423 by the amount that the second member 482 is thicker than the second member 422. The external shape of the third member 483 corresponds to the shape of the third member 423 when it is thinned in the stacking direction (height direction Z).

[0115] (Effect of negative terminal 480) The effect of the negative terminal 480 in the seventh embodiment will be explained with reference to Figure 22.

[0116] At the negative terminal 480, the second member 482 and the first member 421 are adjacent to each other along the stacking direction (height direction Z). That is, the second member 482 and the first member 421 face each other in a direction intersecting the stacking direction (height direction Z). With this configuration, in particular, when the third member 483 is machined to expose the second member 482 in the second member 482 and third member 483 which are made of clad material, the second member 482 can be exposed without depending on the misalignment of the interface between copper and aluminum in the clad material. In other words, this configuration is equivalent to a configuration in which, when machined from the third member 483, a portion of the second member 482 is also machined, taking into account the misalignment of the interface in the clad material. Therefore, the second member 482 and the first member 481 can be sufficiently joined without depending on the misalignment of the interface in the clad material.

[0117] (Negative terminals 490A and 490B of the 8th embodiment) (Configuration of negative terminal 490A) The configuration of the negative terminal 490A of the eighth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 23 and 24. Figure 23 is a perspective view showing a cross-section of the negative terminal 490A of the eighth embodiment. Figure 24 is a perspective view showing the negative terminal 490A of Figure 23 in an exploded view.

[0118] The negative electrode terminal 490A is an electrode terminal. For negative electrode terminal 490A, if it has the same configuration as negative electrode terminal 420, the same reference numeral is used and the explanation is omitted. For negative electrode terminal 490A, if it has a different configuration from negative electrode terminal 420, a different reference numeral is used and the explanation is omitted.

[0119] As shown in Figures 23 and 24, the negative terminal 490A includes a first member 491, a pair of second members 492, and a third member 493.

[0120] The first member 491 is electrically connected to the charge / discharge body 100 of the battery 1 via the negative electrode current collector plate 220. The first member 491 contains a first metal; that is, the first member 491 is formed from a material containing copper or a copper alloy.

[0121] As shown in Figures 23 and 24, the first member 491 includes a head portion 491a, a main body portion 421b, and leg portions 421c. As shown in Figure 24, the head portion 491a is formed in a plate shape. As shown in Figure 24, the head portion 491a has an opposing portion 491a1 that faces the busbar 10 along the height direction Z of the battery 1. As shown in Figure 24, the head portion 491a has an outer portion 491a2 that faces the second member 422 along the short direction Y of the battery 1.

[0122] A pair of second members 492 are joined to the first member 491, as shown in Figure 23. The second members 492 contain the first metal; that is, the second members 492 are formed from a material containing copper or a copper alloy.

[0123] The pair of second members 492 are formed in a prismatic shape, as shown in Figure 24. The second member 492 has an opposing portion 492a that faces the busbar 10 along the height direction Z of the battery 1. The second member 492 is in contact with the outer portion 491a2 of the first member 491 along the short direction Y of the battery 1. The second member 492 is laser-bonded to the first member 491 from the side of the opposing surface P along the boundary with the first member 491. That is, the second member 492 and the first member 491 are laser-bonded in a butt-jointed state. The second member 492 and the first member 491 may also be joined at points.

[0124] As shown in Figure 23, the third member 493 is joined to the second member 492. The third member 493 contains a second metal; that is, the third member 493 is formed from a material containing aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The third member 493 is interatomically joined to the second member 492; that is, the third member 493, formed from aluminum or the like, and the second member 492, formed from copper or the like, are formed from a clad material. The third member 493 and the second member 492 may be crimped together.

[0125] As shown in Figure 24, the third member 493 is formed in a plate shape. The third member 493 has a facing portion 493a that faces the busbar 10 along the height direction Z of the battery 1. As shown in Figure 24, the third member 493 has a concave recess 493b. The first member 491 and the second member 492 are attached to the recess 493b. As shown in Figure 24, the third member 493 has an insertion portion 493c that penetrates the recess 493b. The main body portion 421b of the first member 491 is inserted into the insertion portion 493c. As shown in Figure 23, the third member 493, the second member 492 and the first member 491 are adjacent to each other along the longitudinal direction X of the battery 1 on the side facing the busbar 10 P.

[0126] The third member 493 is laser-bonded to the busbar 10 on the side facing the busbar 10 (P). The third member 493 and the busbar 10 are laser-bonded in a stacked state, i.e., in a superimposed state, along the height direction Z of the battery 1. The third member 493 is bonded to the busbar 10 at two or more locations, spanning the first member 491 and the pair of second members 492, along a direction intersecting the height direction Z. The third member 493 and the busbar 10 are laser-bonded linearly along the short-side direction of the battery. The third member 493 and the busbar 10 may also be laser-bonded in a point-like manner.

[0127] At the negative terminal 490A, the first member 491 and the second member 492 are electrically connected by laser bonding through butt jointing. The first member 491 and the second member 492 are not crimped together. The second member 492 and the third member 493 are electrically connected by being constructed from cladding material.

[0128] The negative electrode terminal 490A may have its first member 491 recessed away from the busbar 10, similar to the negative electrode terminal 440 of the third embodiment. The negative electrode terminal 490A may have its first member 491 protruding toward the busbar 20 beyond the surface P facing the busbar 20, similar to the negative electrode terminal 460 of the fifth embodiment.

[0129] (Configuration of negative terminal 490B) The configuration of the negative terminal 490B of the modified example of the eighth embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 25. Figure 25 is a perspective view showing a cross-section of the negative terminal 490B of the modified example of the eighth embodiment.

[0130] The negative electrode terminal 490B is an electrode terminal. For negative electrode terminal 490B, if it has the same configuration as negative electrode terminals 420 and 490A, the same reference numeral is used and the explanation is omitted. For negative electrode terminal 490B, if it has a different configuration from negative electrode terminals 420 and 490A, a different reference numeral is used and the explanation is omitted.

[0131] As shown in Figure 25, the negative terminal 490A includes a first member 421, a second member 494, and a third member 493. The second member 494 is constructed by changing the shape of the second member 492. The outer shape of the second member 494 is formed as a plate shape that includes the outer shapes of the pair of second members 492. The inner shape of the second member 494 is the same as that of the second member 422 shown in Figure 13. The second member 494 has a facing portion 494a that faces the busbar 10 along the height direction Z of the battery 1.

[0132] (Effects of negative terminals 490A and 490B) The effects of the negative terminals 490A and 490B of the eighth embodiment will be explained with reference to Figures 23 to 25.

[0133] In the negative electrode terminal 490A, the first member 491 and the third member 493 are not crimped together. This configuration prevents the negative electrode terminal 490A from being affected by physical deformation of the first member 491 and the third member 493. In the negative electrode terminal 490B, the first member 421 and the third member 493 are not crimped together. This configuration prevents the negative electrode terminal 490B from being affected by physical deformation of the first member 421 and the third member 493.

[0134] (Negative terminal of the 9th embodiment) (Configuration of the negative terminal) The configuration of the negative terminal in the ninth embodiment corresponds to the configuration of all embodiments from the first to the eighth embodiment, except for the configuration of the fifth embodiment shown in Figure 20.

[0135] The electrode terminal is applied, for example, to a configuration including a first member 421, a second member 422, and a third member 423 in the first embodiment shown in Figure 16. The first member 421 does not protrude further toward the busbar 10 than the third member 423 on the side facing the busbar 10 P. Here, the first member 421 of the negative electrode terminal is provided on the same plane as the third member 423 on the side facing the busbar 10 P. "On the same plane" is defined considering the manufacturing tolerances of the external shapes of the first member 421 and the third member 423. That is, "on the same plane" includes cases where the first member 421 protrudes from the third member 423 by several μm to several hundred μm. Similarly, "on the same plane" includes cases where the third member 423 protrudes from the first member 421 by several μm to several hundred μm. "On the same plane" defines the positional relationship between the first member 421 and the third member 423 such that the third member 423 and the busbar 10 can be joined in a state where they are at least partially in contact. The third member 423 and the busbar 10 are joined across the first member 421. The third member 423 and the busbar 10 are joined across the second member 422.

[0136] Similarly, the electrode terminals are applied to a configuration including, for example, a first member 491, a second member 492, and a third member 493 in the eighth embodiment shown in Figures 23 and 24. The first member 491 does not protrude further toward the busbar 10 than the third member 493 on the side facing the busbar 10 P. Here, the first member 491 of the negative electrode terminal is provided on the same plane as the third member 493 on the side facing the busbar 10 P. "On the same plane" is defined considering the manufacturing tolerances of the external shapes of the first member 491 and the third member 493. The third member 493 and the busbar 10 are joined across the first member 491. The third member 493 and the busbar 10 are joined across a pair of second members 492. The third member 493 and the busbar 10 may also be configured to be joined across either of the pair of second members 492.

[0137] (Effect of the negative terminal) The effect of the negative terminal of the ninth embodiment will be described.

[0138] The negative terminal provides the effects of some or all of the embodiments from the first to the eighth embodiments, excluding the fifth embodiment shown in Figure 20.

[0139] (Negative terminal and other embodiments of the battery) The battery of the present invention is not limited to the configuration described in the embodiments, but can be appropriately configured based on the content described in the claims.

[0140] The electrode terminals of the present invention can be configured by arbitrarily combining the configurations of the electrode terminals of the first to eighth embodiments.

[0141] The electrode terminal of the present invention is not limited to negative electrode terminals. The electrode terminal of the present invention can be applied to positive electrode terminals. With this configuration, the positive electrode terminal 410, which has been converted from an aluminum-containing material to a copper-containing material, can be sufficiently joined to a copper-containing busbar.

[0142] The battery of the present invention is not limited to lithium-ion batteries. The battery of the present invention can be applied to, for example, nickel-metal hydride batteries and lead-acid batteries. The battery of the present invention is not limited to secondary batteries. The battery of the present invention can be applied to primary batteries. The charge / discharge element of the battery of the present invention is not limited to a wound type charge / discharge element in which a positive electrode, separator, and negative electrode, each formed in a long shape, are bundled and wound together. A laminated type can be applied to the charge / discharge element of the battery of the present invention in which a plurality of rectangular positive electrodes, separators, and negative electrodes are alternately stacked. A laminated type can be applied to the charge / discharge element of the battery of the present invention in which a plurality of relatively short positive electrodes and a plurality of negative electrodes are alternately arranged facing each other via a separator to a single long separator. In a charge / discharge element with such a configuration, the positive electrode and negative electrode face each other via a separator by folding and stacking the separator. The battery of the present invention is not limited to a configuration with one charge / discharge element. The battery of the present invention can be applied to a configuration with two or more charge / discharge elements. The battery of the present invention is not limited to a configuration in which the charge / discharge element is sealed by a container and a lid. The battery of the present invention can be applied to a configuration in which the charge / discharge elements are sealed with a laminate film. [Explanation of symbols]

[0143] 1 Battery, 10 Busbar (conductive member), 20 Busbar (conductive member), 20a Recess, 100 Charge / discharge unit, 400 Electrode terminal, 410 Positive electrode terminal, 420 Negative electrode terminal, 420b Insertion part, 421 First member, 421a Head, 421a1 Opposing part, 421a2 Outer circumference, 421b Main body, 421b1 Outer circumference, 421c Leg part, 422 Second member, 422a First insertion part, 423 Third member, 423a Opposing part, 423b Second insertion part, 430 Negative electrode terminal, 431a Head, 440 Negative electrode terminal, 441 First member, 441a Head, 442 Second member, 450 Negative electrode terminal, 451 First member, 451a head, 451a3 recess, 453 Third member, 460 negative electrode terminal (electrode terminal), 461 First member, 461a head, 470 negative electrode terminal (electrode terminal), 480 negative electrode terminal (electrode terminal), 482 Second member, 482b stepped portion, 483 Third member, 490A negative electrode terminal (electrode terminal), 490B negative electrode terminal (electrode terminal), 491 First member, 491a head, 491a1 opposing portion, 491a2 outer portion, 492 Second member, 492a opposing portion, 492b, 493 Third member, 493a opposing portion, 493b recess, 493c insertion portion, 494 Second member, 494a opposing portion, P opposing surface with busbar 10 or busbar 20, Q non-opposing surface, S Welded joint, T welded joint, U welded joint, X is the longitudinal direction of battery 1, Y is the short direction of battery 1, and Z is the height direction of battery 1.

Claims

1. A first component comprising a first metal, which is electrically connected to the battery's charge / discharge element, A second member comprising a first insertion portion into which the first member is inserted, joined to the first member, and including the first metal, A third member comprising a second insertion portion into which the first member is inserted, joined to the second member, and containing a second metal of a different material from the first metal, It has, The third member electrically connects one of the batteries to the other battery and is joined to the conductive member on the surface facing the conductive member which includes the second metal. The first member and the third member are adjacent to each other on the side of the opposing surface, The first member has a main body portion inserted into the first insertion portion and a protruding portion that extends from the main body portion toward the third member, The aforementioned protruding portion has an outer periphery facing the second insertion portion, The surface of the protruding portion opposite to the surface facing the conductive member faces the second member or is joined to the second member. The first member is provided on the side of the opposing surface, on the same plane as the third member. electrode terminal.

2. A first component comprising a first metal, which is electrically connected to the battery's charge / discharge element, A second member comprising a first insertion portion into which the first member is inserted, joined to the first member, and including the first metal, A third member comprising a second insertion portion into which the first member is inserted, joined to the second member, and containing a second metal of a different material from the first metal, It has, The third member electrically connects one of the batteries to the other battery and is joined to the conductive member on the surface facing the conductive member which includes the second metal. The first member and the third member are adjacent to each other on the side of the opposing surface, The first member has a main body portion inserted into the first insertion portion and a protruding portion that extends from the main body portion toward the third member, The aforementioned protruding portion has an outer periphery facing the second insertion portion, The surface of the protruding portion opposite to the surface facing the conductive member faces the second member or is joined to the second member. The first member is partially recessed with respect to the opposing surface in a direction away from the conductive member, The first member and the second member are laser-bonded from the side of the opposing surface in a portion of the first member that is partially recessed. electrode terminal.

3. A first component comprising a first metal, which is electrically connected to the battery's charge / discharge element, A second member comprising a first insertion portion into which the first member is inserted, joined to the first member, and including the first metal, A third member comprising a second insertion portion into which the first member is inserted, joined to the second member, and containing a second metal of a different material from the first metal, It has, The third member electrically connects one of the batteries to the other battery and is joined to the conductive member on the surface facing the conductive member which includes the second metal. The first member and the third member are adjacent to each other on the side of the opposing surface, The first member has a main body portion inserted into the first insertion portion and a protruding portion that extends from the main body portion toward the third member, The aforementioned protruding portion has an outer periphery facing the second insertion portion, The surface of the protruding portion opposite to the surface facing the conductive member faces the second member or is joined to the second member. The first member and the third member are separated when viewed from the stacking direction of the first member and the second member. electrode terminal.

4. A first component comprising a first metal, which is electrically connected to the battery's charge / discharge element, A second member comprising a first insertion portion into which the first member is inserted, joined to the first member, and including the first metal, A third member comprising a second insertion portion into which the first member is inserted, joined to the second member, and containing a second metal of a different material from the first metal, It has, The third member electrically connects one of the batteries to the other battery and is joined to the conductive member on the surface facing the conductive member which includes the second metal. The first member and the third member are adjacent to each other on the side of the opposing surface, The first member has a main body portion inserted into the first insertion portion and a protruding portion that extends from the main body portion toward the third member, The aforementioned protruding portion has an outer periphery facing the second insertion portion, The surface of the protruding portion opposite to the surface facing the conductive member faces the second member or is joined to the second member. The first member and the third member do not overlap in the stacking direction of the first member and the second member. electrode terminal.

5. A first component comprising a first metal, which is electrically connected to the battery's charge / discharge element, A second member comprising a first insertion portion into which the first member is inserted, joined to the first member, and including the first metal, A third member comprising a second insertion portion into which the first member is inserted, joined to the second member, and containing a second metal of a different material from the first metal, It has, The third member electrically connects one of the batteries to the other battery and is joined to the conductive member on the surface facing the conductive member which includes the second metal. The first member has a main body portion inserted into the first insertion portion and a protruding portion that extends from the main body portion toward the third member, The protruding portion of the first member and the third member are adjacent to each other on the side of the opposing surface. The surface of the protruding portion opposite to the surface facing the conductive member faces the second member or is joined to the second member. electrode terminal.

6. The first member and the second member are laser-bonded. An electrode terminal according to any one of claims 1, 3, 4, and 5.

7. The first member and the second member are joined together from the side of the opposing surfaces. The electrode terminal according to claim 6.

8. The first member and the second member are joined together from the non-opposing side opposite to the opposing surface. The electrode terminal according to claim 6.

9. The first member is provided on the side of the opposing surface, on the same plane as the third member. An electrode terminal according to any one of claims 2 to 5.

10. The first member is partially recessed with respect to the opposing surface in a direction away from the conductive member. An electrode terminal according to any one of claims 1, 3, 4, and 5.

11. The first member and the second member are laser-bonded from the side of the opposing surface in a portion of the first member that is partially recessed. The electrode terminal according to claim 10.

12. The first member and the third member are separated when viewed from the stacking direction of the first member and the second member. An electrode terminal according to any one of claims 1, 2, 4, and 5.

13. The third member and the conductive member are joined at two or more locations that straddle the first member. An electrode terminal according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

14. The first member and the second member are crimped together. An electrode terminal according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

15. The second member and the third member are formed from clad material. An electrode terminal according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

16. The first metal is copper or a copper alloy. The second metal is aluminum or an aluminum alloy. Applied to the negative terminal, An electrode terminal according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

17. The first member protrudes beyond the opposing surface in a direction toward the conductive member, The conductive member has a recess on the side of the opposing surface that accommodates the first member. An electrode terminal according to any one of claims 2 to 5.

18. An electrode terminal according to any one of claims 1 to 5, A charge / discharge body electrically connected to the electrode terminals, A battery containing a battery.

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