Battery module and spacer

Abstract

To provide a battery module and a spacer which can appropriately cool a battery cell.SOLUTION: There is provided a battery module in which a plurality of battery cells 20 and spacers 13, which are arranged between the battery cells 20 and are made of a synthetic resin, are alternately stacked. The spacer 13 has: a plurality of bar parts 50 which are arranged at a distance from each other along the battery cells 20; a first fin part 56 which is formed so as to be inclined with respect to an arrangement direction where the bar parts 50 are arranged and extend to the side of a first battery cell 20A and contacts a surface 21 of the first battery cell 20A; and a second fin part 57 which is formed so as to be inclined with respect to the arrangement direction and extend to the side of a second battery cell 20B different from the first battery cell 20A and contacts a surface 21 of the second battery cell 20B. The thickness of a base end 56A of the first fin part 56 is smaller than the thickness of a tip 56B of the first fin part 56. The thickness of a base end 57A of the second fin part 57 is smaller than the thickness of a tip 57B of the second fin part 57.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery module and a spacer. [Background technology]

[0002] In the battery module described in Patent Document 1, spacers are placed between the battery cells. The spacers have wall portions sandwiched between the main surfaces of the adjacent battery cells, and notches that penetrate the wall portions in the thickness direction are formed in the wall portions. By using such spacers and passing cooling gas through the notches, the temperature difference between the adjacent battery cells through the spacers is reduced. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-82170 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, with the technology described in Patent Document 1, there is a risk that the passageway for the cooling gas that penetrates the spacer in the thickness direction may become narrower than expected. That is, the internal pressure of the battery cells in the battery module may increase due to gas generated inside the case, causing them to expand. Part of the expanded battery cell may enter the passageway for the cooling gas provided in the spacer. In other words, if the battery cell expands, the passageway for the cooling gas provided in the spacer may become narrower than when the battery cell does not expand. This may result in inadequate cooling of the battery cell. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A battery module that solves the above problem is a battery module in which a plurality of battery cells and synthetic resin spacers that are placed between the battery cells are alternately stacked, and the spacers have a plurality of bar portions that are arranged at intervals along the battery cells, a first fin portion that is provided on the bar portions and is formed to extend toward one of the battery cells at an angle with respect to the arrangement direction of the bar portions and contacts a surface of the one battery cell, and a second fin portion that is provided on the bar portions and is formed to extend toward the other battery cell that is different from the one battery cell at an angle with respect to the arrangement direction and contacts a surface of the other battery cell, and the thickness of the base ends of the first fin portions and the second fin portions is smaller than the thickness of the tip ends of the first fin portions and the second fin portions.

[0006] According to the above configuration, the first fin portion contacts the surface of one of the battery cells, thereby ensuring an appropriate distance from the surface of the one battery cell, and the second fin portion contacts the surface of the other battery cell, thereby ensuring an appropriate distance from the surface of the other battery cell. Therefore, the spacer can appropriately ensure the distance between adjacent battery cells. Therefore, heat is appropriately dissipated into the space between the battery cells, allowing the battery cells to be appropriately cooled. Furthermore, by providing a thin portion in the fin portion, the thin portion can be actively deflected. Pressing the fin portion can prevent the bar portion from rotating together with the fin portion.

[0007] In the battery module, it is preferable that the first fin portion and the second fin portion are provided on the same bar portion among the plurality of bar portions. According to the above configuration, the first fin portion and the second fin portion are provided on the same bar portion, so that the first fin portion and the second fin portion come into contact with both adjacent battery cells, thereby ensuring insulation.

[0008] In the battery module, it is preferable that the first fin portion is inclined with respect to a first arrangement direction of the arrangement direction, and the second fin portion is inclined with respect to a second arrangement direction opposite to the first arrangement direction.

[0009] According to the above configuration, the first fin portion is inclined with respect to the first arrangement direction, and the second fin portion is inclined with respect to the second arrangement direction, so that the first fin portion and the second fin portion contact adjacent battery cells at different positions, thereby ensuring insulation.

[0010] In the above battery module, it is preferable that the first fin portion is provided on a first bar portion of the plurality of bar portions, and the second fin portion is provided on a second bar portion of the plurality of bar portions that is different from the first bar portion.

[0011] According to the above configuration, the first fin portion is provided on the first bar portion, and the second fin portion is provided on the second bar portion different from the first bar portion. Therefore, the first bar portion provided with the first fin and the second bar portion provided with the second fin portion are in contact with adjacent battery cells separately, thereby ensuring insulation.

[0012] It is preferable that the above battery module has two first fin portions, one of which is inclined with respect to a first arrangement direction of the arrangement direction and the other of which is inclined with respect to a second arrangement direction opposite to the first arrangement direction, and that the battery module has two second fin portions, one of which is inclined with respect to the first arrangement direction of the arrangement direction and the other of which is inclined with respect to a second arrangement direction opposite to the first arrangement direction.

[0013] According to the above configuration, the first bar section has first fin sections that are inclined with respect to the first arrangement direction and second fin sections that are inclined with respect to the second arrangement direction, and the second bar section has first fin sections that are inclined with respect to the first arrangement direction and second fin sections that are inclined with respect to the second arrangement direction. As a result, at least two fin sections from each bar section come into contact with the battery cells, thereby ensuring insulation between adjacent battery cells.

[0014] In the above battery module, it is preferable that the first fin portion is inclined with respect to a first arrangement direction of the arrangement direction, the second fin portion is inclined with respect to the first arrangement direction, and the battery module is provided with a first stopper portion formed on the first bar portion and extending in a second arrangement direction opposite to the first arrangement direction, and a second stopper portion formed on the second bar portion and extending in the second arrangement direction.

[0015] According to the above configuration, the first bar section is provided with first fin sections inclined with respect to the first arrangement direction and first stopper sections extending in the second arrangement direction, and the second bar section is provided with first fin sections inclined with respect to the first arrangement direction and second stopper sections extending in the second arrangement direction. As a result, at least the fin sections and stopper sections of each bar section come into contact with the battery cells, thereby ensuring insulation between adjacent battery cells.

[0016] The spacer is a spacer made of synthetic resin and placed between multiple battery cells that make up a battery module, and has multiple bar portions arranged at intervals from each other, a first fin portion provided on the bar portions and extending toward one of the battery cells at an angle relative to the arrangement direction in which the bar portions are arranged, and a second fin portion provided on the bar portions and extending toward the other battery cell that is different from the one battery cell at an angle relative to the arrangement direction, and the thickness of the base ends of the first fin portions and the second fin portions is smaller than the thickness of the tip ends of the first fin portions and the second fin portions.

[0017] According to the above configuration, the first fin portion contacts the surface of one of the battery cells, thereby ensuring an appropriate distance from the surface of the one battery cell, and the second fin portion contacts the surface of the other battery cell, thereby ensuring an appropriate distance from the surface of the other battery cell. Therefore, the spacer can appropriately ensure the distance between adjacent battery cells. Therefore, heat is appropriately dissipated into the space between the battery cells, allowing the battery cells to be appropriately cooled. Furthermore, by providing a thin portion in the fin portion, the thin portion can be actively deflected. Pressing the fin portion can prevent the bar portion from rotating together with the fin portion.

[0018] In the spacer, it is preferable that the first fin portion and the second fin portion are provided on the same bar portion among the plurality of bar portions. According to the above configuration, the first fin portion and the second fin portion are provided on the same bar portion, so that the first fin portion and the second fin portion come into contact with both adjacent battery cells, thereby ensuring insulation.

[0019] In the spacer, it is preferable that the first fin portion is inclined with respect to a first arrangement direction of the arrangement direction, and the second fin portion is inclined with respect to a second arrangement direction opposite to the first arrangement direction.

[0020] According to the above configuration, the first fin portion is inclined with respect to the first arrangement direction, and the second fin portion is inclined with respect to the second arrangement direction, so that the first fin portion and the second fin portion contact adjacent battery cells at different positions, thereby ensuring insulation.

[0021] With regard to the spacer, it is preferable that the first fin portion is provided on a first bar portion among the plurality of bar portions, and the second fin portion is provided on a second bar portion among the plurality of bar portions that is different from the first bar portion.

[0022] According to the above configuration, the first fin portion is provided on the first bar portion, and the second fin portion is provided on the second bar portion different from the first bar portion. Therefore, the first bar portion provided with the first fin and the second bar portion provided with the second fin portion are in contact with adjacent battery cells separately, thereby ensuring insulation.

[0023] It is preferable that the above-mentioned spacer has two first fin portions, one of which is inclined with respect to a first arrangement direction in the arrangement direction and the other of which is inclined with respect to a second arrangement direction opposite to the first arrangement direction, and that the spacer has two second fin portions, one of which is inclined with respect to the first arrangement direction in the arrangement direction and the other of which is inclined with respect to a second arrangement direction opposite to the first arrangement direction.

[0024] According to the above configuration, the first bar section has first fin sections that are inclined with respect to the first arrangement direction and second fin sections that are inclined with respect to the second arrangement direction, and the second bar section has first fin sections that are inclined with respect to the first arrangement direction and second fin sections that are inclined with respect to the second arrangement direction. As a result, at least two fin sections from each bar section come into contact with the battery cells, thereby ensuring insulation between adjacent battery cells.

[0025] Regarding the above-mentioned spacer, it is preferable that the first fin portion is inclined with respect to a first arrangement direction of the arrangement direction, the second fin portion is inclined with respect to the first arrangement direction, and the spacer is provided with a first stopper portion formed on the first bar portion and extending in a second arrangement direction opposite to the first arrangement direction, and a second stopper portion formed on the second bar portion and extending in the second arrangement direction.

[0026] According to the above configuration, the first bar section is provided with first fin sections inclined with respect to the first arrangement direction and first stopper sections extending in the second arrangement direction, and the second bar section is provided with first fin sections inclined with respect to the first arrangement direction and second stopper sections extending in the second arrangement direction. As a result, at least the fin sections and stopper sections of each bar section come into contact with the battery cells, thereby ensuring insulation between adjacent battery cells. [Effects of the Invention]

[0027] According to the present invention, the battery cells can be cooled appropriately. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0028] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of a battery module according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 2 is a cross-sectional view of the battery module of the embodiment taken along line 2-2 of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the spacer of the embodiment. [Figure 4] 4 is a cross-sectional view of a space forming portion of the spacer in an uncompressed state according to the embodiment; FIG. [Figure 5] 4 is a cross-sectional view of a space forming portion of the spacer in a compressed state according to the embodiment. FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a space forming portion of a spacer in a non-compressed state according to a second embodiment. [Figure 7] 4 is a cross-sectional view of a space forming portion of the spacer in a compressed state according to the embodiment. FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a space forming portion of a spacer in a non-compressed state according to a third embodiment. [Figure 9] 4 is a cross-sectional view of a space forming portion of the spacer in a compressed state according to the embodiment. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0029] (First embodiment) A first embodiment of a battery module and a spacer will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[0030] (Battery module 10) As shown in FIG. 1 , the battery module 10 has a lower case 11 and multiple battery cells 20 housed within it. The lower case 11 is a box-shaped member with an open top. The battery cells 20 have a flattened rectangular parallelepiped outer shape. The multiple battery cells 20 are stacked and arranged within the lower case 11. Each battery cell 20 has a surface in the X direction, which is the stacking direction of the battery cells 20. Surface 21 of the battery cell 20 is the largest outer surface. The battery module 10 houses two rows of battery groups each made up of multiple stacked battery cells 20. The direction in which the rows of battery groups of battery cells 20 are arranged is the Y direction. The direction toward the top of the lower case 11 is the Z direction. Bus bars, pole terminals, an upper case, etc. are actually attached to the battery module 10, but these are omitted from the illustration.

[0031] As shown in FIG. 2, the lower case 11 has a floor portion 11A and an end wall portion 11B. The floor portion 11A is a portion of the lower case 11 located below the multiple battery cells 20. The end wall portion 11B is a portion of the lower case 11 located to the side of the multiple battery cells 20. The multiple battery cells 20 housed in the lower case 11 are stacked alternately with spacers 13. In other words, the spacers 13 are arranged between the battery cells 20. End plates 14 are sandwiched between the battery cells 20 on both ends and the end wall portions 11B. The spacers 13 and end plates 14 are made of synthetic resin. The spacers 13 and end plates 14 are insulating and have a certain degree of flexibility.

[0032] The battery cells 20, spacers 13, and end plates 14 are constrained by the end wall portions 11B at both ends in the stacking direction (X direction). As a result, the battery cells 20, spacers 13, and end plates 14 are subjected to a compressive load in the stacking direction (X direction). When compressed and housed in the battery module 10, the battery cells 20, spacers 13, and end plates 14 are compressed in the stacking direction (X direction) more than when they are uncompressed.

[0033] (Spacer 13) 3, the spacer 13 has a space-forming portion 13C. The space-forming portion 13C is provided in the center portion of the spacer 13. The space-forming portion 13C is a portion that forms a space between the battery cells 20 located on both sides of the spacer 13.

[0034] The spacer 13 has a plurality of bar portions 50 in the space forming portion 13C. The bar portions 50 extend in the longitudinal direction (Y direction) of the surface 21 of the battery cell 20. The plurality of bar portions 50 are arranged at intervals from one another in the vertical direction (Z direction) along the surface 21 of the battery cell 20. Fin portions 55 are provided on the plurality of bar portions 50. The space forming portion 13C is composed of the bar portions 50 and the fin portions 55.

[0035] (Space forming part 13A) Next, the space forming portion 13C will be described in detail with reference to Figures 4 and 5. Figures 4 and 5 are cross-sectional views of the space forming portion 13C of the spacer 13. Figure 4 shows the space forming portion 13C in an uncompressed state together with the adjacent battery cells 20 on both sides. Figure 5 shows the space forming portion 13C in a compressed state together with the adjacent battery cells 20 on both sides.

[0036] 4, the bar portion 50 has, from top to bottom, a third bar portion 53, a first bar portion 51, a second bar portion 52, and a fourth bar portion 54. The fin portion 55 has a first fin portion 56, a second fin portion 57, a third fin portion 58, and a fourth fin portion 59.

[0037] The first bar portion 51 and the second bar portion 52 are provided with a first fin portion 56 and a second fin portion 57. The first fin portion 56 is inclined at a first angle θA with respect to a first arrangement direction (upward direction) in the arrangement direction (Z direction) in which the bar portions 50 are arranged, and extends in a first orthogonal direction (rightward in the figure) perpendicular to the arrangement direction (Z direction). The second fin portion 57 is inclined at a second angle θB with respect to a second arrangement direction (downward direction) opposite to the first arrangement direction, and extends in the first orthogonal direction (rightward in the figure). The first fin portion 56 and the second fin portion 57 are in contact with the surface 21 of the first battery cell 20A on the right side in the figure. The first angle θA and the second angle θB are the same angle.

[0038] A second fin portion 57 is provided on the third bar portion 53. The second fin portion 57 is inclined at a second angle θB with respect to the second arrangement direction (downward) and extends in a second orthogonal direction (leftward in the figure). The second fin portion 57 contacts the surface 21 of the second battery cell 20B on the left side.

[0039] A first fin portion 56 is provided on the fourth bar portion 54. The first fin portion 56 is inclined at a first angle θA with respect to the first arrangement direction (upward) and extends in a first orthogonal direction (rightward in the figure). The first fin portion 56 contacts the surface 21 of the first battery cell 20A on the right side.

[0040] (uncompressed state) As shown in FIG. 4 , in the uncompressed state, the tip of the first fin portion 56 on the first bar portion 51 protrudes beyond the first bar portion 51 toward the first battery cell 20A on the right side in the figure. In the uncompressed state, the tip of the second fin portion 57 on the first bar portion 51 protrudes beyond the first bar portion 51 toward the second battery cell 20B on the left side in the figure. In the uncompressed state, the tip of the first fin portion 56 on the second bar portion 52 protrudes beyond the second bar portion 52 toward the first battery cell 20A on the right side in the figure. In the uncompressed state, the tip of the second fin portion 57 on the second bar portion 52 protrudes beyond the second bar portion 52 toward the second battery cell 20B on the left side in the figure. The tip of the second fin portion 57 on the third bar portion 53 protrudes beyond the third bar portion 33 toward the second battery cell 20B on the left side in the figure. The tip of the first fin portion 56 provided on the fourth bar portion 54 protrudes further toward the first battery cell 20A on the right side than the fourth bar portion 54. The first bar portion 51, the second bar portion 52, the third bar portion 53, and the fourth bar portion 54 do not contact the surface 21 of the first battery cell 20A on the right side or the surface 21 of the second battery cell 20B on the left side.

[0041] The first fin length LA, which is the length of the first fin portion 56 from the first bar portion 51, and the second fin length LB, which is the length of the second fin portion 57 from the third bar portion 53, are both shorter than the interval P between the first bar portion 51 and the third bar portion 53 (LA < P, LB < P). The first fin length LA and the second fin length LB are of the same length (LA = LB). The sum of the first fin length LA and the second fin length LB is longer than the interval P between the first bar portion 51 and the third bar portion 53 (LA + LB > P).

[0042] The second fin length LB, which is the length of the second fin portion 57 from the first bar portion 51, and the first fin length LA, which is the length of the first fin portion 56 from the second bar portion 52, are both shorter than the interval P between the first bar portion 51 and the second bar portion 52 (LB < P, LA < P). The second fin length LB and the first fin length LA are of the same length (LB = LA). The sum of the second fin length LB and the first fin length LA is longer than the interval P between the first bar portion 51 and the second bar portion 52 (LB + LA > P).

[0043] The second fin length LB, which is the length of the second fin portion 57 from the second bar portion 52, and the first fin length LA, which is the length of the first fin portion 56 from the fourth bar portion 54, are both shorter than the interval P between the second bar portion 52 and the fourth bar portion 54 (LB < P, LA < P). The second fin length LB and the first fin length LA are of the same length (LB = LA). The sum of the second fin length LB and the first fin length LA is longer than the interval P between the second bar portion 52 and the fourth bar portion 54 (LB + LA > P).

[0044] The sum of the projection lengths LZA and LZB in the arrangement direction (Z direction) of the first fin portion 56 and the second fin portion 57 is shorter than the interval P between the first bar portion 51 and the third bar portion 53 in the non-compressed state (LZA + LZB < P). For this reason, in the non-compressed state, a gap G is provided in the arrangement direction (Z direction) between the tips of the first fin portion 56 and the second fin portion 57. Thereby, the first fin portion 56 and the second fin portion 57 are prevented from overlapping in the arrangement direction (Z direction). Such a spacer 13 can be manufactured at a low cost.

[0045] The sum of the projected length LZB in the arrangement direction (Z direction) of the second fin portion 57 and the projected length LZA in the arrangement direction (Z direction) of the first fin portion 56 is shorter than the distance P between the first bar portion 51 and the second bar portion 52 in the non-compressed state (LZB + LZA < P). Therefore, in the non-compressed state, a gap G is provided in the arrangement direction (Z direction) between the tips of the second fin portion 57 and the first fin portion 56. As a result, the second fin portion 57 and the first fin portion 56 are prevented from overlapping in the arrangement direction (Z direction). Such a spacer 13 can be manufactured at a low cost.

[0046] The sum of the projected length LZB in the arrangement direction (Z direction) of the second fin portion 57 and the projected length LZA in the arrangement direction (Z direction) of the first fin portion 56 is shorter than the distance P between the second bar portion 52 and the fourth bar portion 54 in the non-compressed state (LZB + LZA < P). Therefore, in the non-compressed state, a gap G is provided in the arrangement direction (Z direction) between the tips of the second fin portion 57 and the first fin portion 56. As a result, the second fin portion 57 and the first fin portion 56 are prevented from overlapping in the arrangement direction (Z direction). Such a spacer 13 can be manufactured at a low cost.

[0047] (Compressed state) As shown in FIG. 5, in the compressed state, the right side surface of the bar portion 50 is in contact with the surface 21 of the first battery cell 20A on the right side. The surface 21 of the second battery cell 20B on the left side is in contact with the left side surface of the bar portion 50. That is, in the compressed state, the bar portion 50 is sandwiched between the surface 21 of the first battery cell 20A and the surface 21 of the second battery cell 20B, and is compressed in the stacking direction (X direction). Further, the bar portion 50 presses the surface 21 of the first battery cell 20A and the surface 21 of the second battery cell 20B in a direction away from each other by the reaction force against the compression. As a result, the contact between the adjacent battery cells 20 is suppressed by the bar portion 50. And a space 15 is formed between the two adjacent bar portions 50 in the vertical direction, where the surfaces 21 of the battery cells 20 adjacent to both sides of the spacer 13 are separated from each other.

[0048] Because the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A is in contact with the right side surface of the first bar portion 51, the first fin portion 56 provided on the first bar portion 51 is pressed to the left by the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A. Due to this pressing, the first fin portion 56 is bent more to the left than in the uncompressed state along the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A. In this bent state, the first fin portion 56 extends upward along the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A. In this bent state, the first fin portion 56 presses the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A to the right due to the reaction force of the bending.

[0049] Because the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B is in contact with the left side surface of the first bar portion 51, the second fin portion 57 provided on the first bar portion 51 is pressed to the right by the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B. Due to this pressing, the second fin portion 57 is bent more to the right than in the uncompressed state along the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B. In this bent state, the second fin portion 57 extends downward along the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B. In this bent state, the second fin portion 57 presses the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B to the left due to the reaction force of the bending.

[0050] Because the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A is in contact with the right side surface of the second bar portion 52, the first fin portion 56 provided on the second bar portion 52 is pressed to the right by the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A. Due to this pressing, the first fin portion 56 is bent along the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A and is bent more to the left than when in an uncompressed state. In this bent state, the first fin portion 56 extends upward along the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A. In this bent state, the first fin portion 56 presses the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A to the right due to the reaction force of the bending.

[0051] Because the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B is in contact with the left side surface of the second bar portion 52, the second fin portion 57 provided on the second bar portion 52 is pressed to the right by the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B. Due to this pressing, the second fin portion 57 is bent more to the right than in the uncompressed state along the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B. In this bent state, the second fin portion 57 extends downward along the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B. In this bent state, the second fin portion 57 presses the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B to the left due to the reaction force of the bending.

[0052] Because the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B is in contact with the left side surface of the third bar portion 53, the second fin portion 57 provided on the third bar portion 53 is pressed to the right by the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B. Due to this pressing, the second fin portion 57 is bent more to the right than in the uncompressed state along the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B. In this bent state, the second fin portion 57 extends downward along the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B. In this bent state, the second fin portion 57 presses the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B to the left due to the reaction force of the bending.

[0053] Because the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A is in contact with the right side surface of the fourth bar portion 54, the first fin portion 56 provided on the fourth bar portion 54 is pressed to the left by the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A. Due to this pressing, the first fin portion 56 is bent more to the left than in the uncompressed state along the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A. In this bent state, the first fin portion 56 extends upward along the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A. In this bent state, the first fin portion 56 presses the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A to the right due to the reaction force of the bending.

[0054] As described above, the first fin length LA of the first fin portion 56 and the second fin length LB of the second fin portion 57 are both shorter than the distance P between the first bar portion 51 and the third bar portion 53. Therefore, there is a portion of the surface 21 of the first right-side battery cell 20A that is not covered by the first fin portion 56 within the distance P between the first bar portion 51 and the third bar portion 53. Similarly, there is a portion of the surface 21 of the second left-side battery cell 20B that is not covered by the second fin portion 57 within the distance P between the first bar portion 51 and the third bar portion 53.

[0055] Similarly, the second fin length LB of the second fin portion 57 and the first fin length LA of the first fin portion 56 are both shorter than the distance P between the first bar portion 51 and the second bar portion 52. Therefore, there is a portion of the surface 21 of the first right-side battery cell 20A that is not covered by the second fin portion 57 within the distance P between the first bar portion 51 and the second bar portion 52. Furthermore, there is a portion of the surface 21 of the second left-side battery cell 20B that is not covered by the first fin portion 56 within the distance P between the first bar portion 51 and the second bar portion 52.

[0056] Similarly, the second fin length LB of the second fin portion 57 and the first fin length LA of the first fin portion 56 are both shorter than the distance P between the second bar portion 52 and the fourth bar portion 54. Therefore, there is a portion of the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B that is not covered by the second fin portion 57 within the distance P between the second bar portion 52 and the fourth bar portion 54. Also, there is a portion of the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A that is not covered by the first fin portion 56 within the distance P between the second bar portion 52 and the fourth bar portion 54.

[0057] Therefore, the surfaces 21 of the battery cells 20 on both sides of the spacer 13 have portions exposed to the space 15 at the interval P between the bar portions 50. In other words, when the battery cells 20 on both sides of the spacer 13 generate heat, they can dissipate the heat into the space 15. The space 15 is a passageway for cooling gas in the battery module 10, through which gas for cooling the battery cells 20 flows. As a result, the spacer 13 can cool the battery cells 20 on both sides while preventing the temperature difference between the adjacent battery cells 20 from becoming too large.

[0058] As described above, the sum of the first fin length LA of the first fin portion 56 and the second fin length LB of the second fin portion 57 is longer than the distance P between the first bar portion 51 and the third bar portion 53. Therefore, in the compressed state, the first fin portion 56 and the second fin portion 57 overlap in the arrangement direction (Z direction). That is, there is an overlap L between the tip of the first fin portion 56 and the tip of the second fin portion 57. Therefore, the first fin portion 56 presses at least a region of the first right battery cell 20A that faces a region of the second left battery cell 20B that is not pressed by the second fin portion 57. The second fin portion 57 presses at least a region of the second left battery cell 20B that faces a region of the first right battery cell 20A that is not pressed by the first fin portion 56. In other words, the battery cells 20 on either side of the spacer 13 have no gap in the arrangement direction (Z direction) at the interval P between the bar portions 50, and are pressed away from each other by at least one of the first fin portion 56 and the second fin portion 57. Furthermore, the battery cells 20 on either side of the spacer 13 do not come into contact with each other between the first bar portion 51 and the third bar portion 53. For example, even if the adjacent battery cells 20 expand and enter the space 15 while bending their respective first fin portions 56 and second fin portions 57, at least one of the first fin portion 56 and the second fin portion 57 will always be present between the adjacent battery cells 20 on either side. This allows the spacer 13 to reliably maintain insulation between the adjacent battery cells 20 on either side.

[0059] Similarly, the sum of the second fin length LB of the second fin portion 57 and the first fin length LA of the first fin portion 56 is longer than the distance P between the first bar portion 51 and the second bar portion 52. Therefore, in the compressed state, the second fin portion 57 and the first fin portion 56 overlap in the arrangement direction (Z direction). That is, there is an overlap L between the tip of the second fin portion 57 and the tip of the first fin portion 56. Therefore, the second fin portion 57 presses at least a region of the first right battery cell 20A that faces a region of the second left battery cell 20B that is not pressed by the first fin portion 56. The first fin portion 56 presses at least a region of the second left battery cell 20B that faces a region of the first right battery cell 20A that is not pressed by the second fin portion 57. In other words, the battery cells 20 on either side of the spacer 13 have no gap in the arrangement direction (Z direction) at the interval P between the bar portions 30, and are pressed away from each other by at least one of the second fin portion 57 and the first fin portion 56. Furthermore, the battery cells 20 on either side of the spacer 13 do not come into contact with each other between the first bar portion 51 and the second bar portion 52. For example, even if the adjacent battery cells 20 expand and enter the space 15 while bending their respective second fin portions 57 and first fin portions 56, at least one of the second fin portion 57 and the first fin portion 56 will always be present between the adjacent battery cells 20. This allows the spacer 13 to reliably maintain insulation between the adjacent battery cells 20 on either side.

[0060] Similarly, the sum of the second fin length LB of the second fin portion 57 and the first fin length LA of the first fin portion 56 is longer than the distance P between the second bar portion 52 and the fourth bar portion 54. Therefore, in the compressed state, the second fin portion 57 and the first fin portion 56 overlap in the arrangement direction (Z direction). That is, there is an overlap L between the tip of the second fin portion 57 and the tip of the first fin portion 56. Therefore, the first fin portion 56 presses at least a region of the right-side first battery cell 20A that faces a region of the left-side second battery cell 20B that is not pressed by the second fin portion 57. The second fin portion 57 presses at least a region of the left-side second battery cell 20B that faces a region of the right-side first battery cell 20A that is not pressed by the first fin portion 56. In other words, the battery cells 20 on either side of the spacer 13 have no gap in the arrangement direction (Z direction) at the interval P between the bar portions 50, and are pressed away from each other by at least one of the first fin portion 56 and the second fin portion 57. Furthermore, the battery cells 20 on either side of the spacer 13 do not come into contact with each other between the second bar portion 52 and the fourth bar portion 54. For example, even if the adjacent battery cells 20 expand and enter the space 15 while bending their respective second fin portions 57 and first fin portions 56, at least one of the second fin portion 57 and the first fin portion 56 will always be present between the adjacent battery cells 20. This allows the spacer 13 to reliably maintain insulation between the adjacent battery cells 20 on either side.

[0061] 4, the thickness of the base end of fin portion 55 is smaller than the thickness of the tip end of fin portion 55. That is, the thickness of base end 56A of first fin portion 56 is smaller than the thickness of tip end 56B. Also, the thickness of base end 57A of second fin portion 57 is smaller than the thickness of tip end 57B.

[0062] When the tip end of the fin portion 55 is pressed by the surfaces 21 of the adjacent battery cells 20, the thinner base end bends, causing the fin portion 55 to extend along the surfaces 21 of the battery cells 20. In other words, by providing a thinner portion within the fin portion 55, it is possible to actively allow the thinner portion to bend. Furthermore, when the fin portion 55 is pressed, it is possible to prevent the bar portion 50 from rotating together with the fin portion 55. This prevents the bar portion 50 from rotating, causing local loads on the battery cells 20 due to the corners of the bar portion 50, and preventing the flow path of the cooling gas in the space 15 from being obstructed.

[0063] Even if the battery cells 20 expand for some reason, the spacers 13 can prevent the battery cells 20 from entering the spaces 15 by the first fin portions 56 and second fin portions 57 pressing against the battery cells 20. In other words, even if the battery cells 20 expand, the spacers 13 can prevent the length of the spaces 15 in the stacking direction (X direction) from becoming narrower, thereby ensuring the appropriate size of the spaces 15. Therefore, the spacers 13 can prevent the flow rate of the cooling gas flowing in the spaces 15 from decreasing due to the expansion of the battery cells 20. Therefore, the spacers 13 can prevent a decrease in the cooling function of the cooling gas flowing in the spaces 15 for the battery cells 20 from decreasing.

[0064] Next, the effects of the first embodiment will be described. (1-1) The first fin portion 56 contacts the surface 21 of the first battery cell 20A, thereby ensuring an appropriate distance from the surface 21 of the first battery cell 20A, and the second fin portion 57 contacts the surface 21 of the second battery cell 20B, thereby ensuring an appropriate distance from the surface 21 of the second battery cell 20B. Therefore, the spacer 13 ensures an appropriate distance between adjacent battery cells 20. Therefore, heat is appropriately dissipated into the space between the battery cells 20, allowing the battery cells 20 to be appropriately cooled. Furthermore, by providing a thin portion in the fin portion 55, the thin portion can be actively deflected. Then, by pressing the fin portion 55, it is possible to prevent the bar portion 50 from rotating together with the fin portion 55.

[0065] (1-2) The first fin portion 56 and the second fin portion 57 are provided on the same bar portion 50. Therefore, the first fin portion 56 and the second fin portion 57 contact both adjacent battery cells 20, thereby ensuring insulation.

[0066] (1-3) The first fin portion 56 is inclined with respect to the first arrangement direction, and the second fin portion 57 is inclined with respect to the second arrangement direction. Therefore, the first fin portion 56 and the second fin portion 57 contact adjacent battery cells 20 at different positions, thereby ensuring insulation.

[0067] (Second embodiment) A second embodiment of the battery module and spacer will be described below with reference to Figures 6 and 7. The battery module and spacer of this embodiment differ from those of the first embodiment in terms of the space-forming portion. The following description will focus on the differences from the first embodiment.

[0068] (Space forming part 13A) Next, the space forming portion 13A will be described in detail with reference to Figures 6 and 7. Figures 6 and 7 are cross-sectional views of the space forming portion 13A of the spacer 13. Figure 6 shows the space forming portion 13A in an uncompressed state together with the adjacent battery cells 20 on either side. Figure 7 shows the space forming portion 13A in a compressed state together with the adjacent battery cells 20 on either side.

[0069] As shown in FIG. 6, the bar portion 30 has, from top to bottom, a third bar portion 33, a first bar portion 31, a second bar portion 32, and a fourth bar portion . The first bar portion 31 is provided with a first fin portion 36 and a second fin portion 37. The first fin portion 36 is inclined at a first angle θA with respect to a first arrangement direction (upward) in the arrangement direction (Z direction) in which the bar portions 30 are arranged, and extends in a first orthogonal direction (rightward in the figure) that is perpendicular to the arrangement direction (Z direction). The second fin portion 37 is inclined at a second angle θB with respect to a second arrangement direction (downward) that is opposite to the first arrangement direction, and extends in the first orthogonal direction (rightward in the figure). The first fin portion 36 and the second fin portion 37 are in contact with the surface 21 of the first battery cell 20A on the right side in the figure. The first angle θA and the second angle θB are the same angle.

[0070] The second bar portion 32 is provided with a third fin portion 38 and a fourth fin portion 39. The third fin portion 38 is inclined at a third angle θC with respect to the first arrangement direction (upward) and extends in a second orthogonal direction (leftward in the figure), which is opposite to the first orthogonal direction (rightward in the figure). The fourth fin portion 39 is inclined at a fourth angle θD with respect to the second arrangement direction (downward) and extends in the second orthogonal direction (leftward in the figure). The third fin portion 38 and the fourth fin portion 39 are in contact with the surface 21 of the second battery cell 20B on the left side in the figure. The third angle θC and the fourth angle θD are the same angle. The first angle θA and the third angle θC are the same angle.

[0071] A fourth fin portion 39 is provided on the third bar portion 33. The fourth fin portion 39 is inclined at a fourth angle θD with respect to the second arrangement direction (downward) and extends in the second orthogonal direction (leftward in the figure). The fourth fin portion 39 contacts the surface 21 of the second battery cell 20B on the left side.

[0072] The fourth bar portion 34 is provided with a first fin portion 36. The first fin portion 36 is inclined at a first angle θA with respect to the first arrangement direction (upward) and extends in a first orthogonal direction (rightward in the figure). The first fin portion 36 contacts the surface 21 of the first battery cell 20A on the right side.

[0073] (uncompressed state) As shown in FIG. 6, in the uncompressed state, the tips of the first fin portion 36 and the second fin portion 37 provided on the first bar portion 31 protrude toward the first battery cell 20A side on the right side in the drawing rather than the first bar portion 31. Further, in the uncompressed state, the tips of the third fin portion 38 and the fourth fin portion 39 provided on the second bar portion 32 protrude toward the second battery cell 20B side on the left side rather than the second bar portion 32. The tip of the fourth fin portion 39 provided on the third bar portion 33 protrudes toward the second battery cell 20B side on the left side rather than the third bar portion 33. The tip of the first fin portion 36 provided on the fourth bar portion 34 protrudes toward the first battery cell 20A side on the right side rather than the fourth bar portion 34. The first bar portion 31, the second bar portion 32, the third bar portion 33, and the fourth bar portion 34 do not contact either the surface 21 of the first battery cell 20A on the right side or the surface 21 of the second battery cell 20B on the left side.

[0074] The first fin length LA, which is the length of the first fin portion 36 from the first bar portion 31, and the fourth fin length LD, which is the length of the fourth fin portion 39 from the second bar portion 32, are both shorter than the distance P between the first bar portion 31 and the third bar portion 33 (LA < P, LD < P). The first fin length LA and the fourth fin length LD are the same length (LA = LD). The sum of the first fin length LA and the fourth fin length LD is longer than the distance P between the first bar portion 31 and the third bar portion 33 (LA + LD > P).

[0075] The second fin length LB, which is the length of the second fin portion 37 from the first bar portion 31, and the third fin length LC, which is the length of the third fin portion 38 from the second bar portion 32, are both shorter than the distance P between the first bar portion 31 and the second bar portion 32 (LB < P, LC < P). The second fin length LB and the third fin length LC are the same length (LB = LC). The sum of the second fin length LB and the third fin length LC is longer than the distance P between the first bar portion 31 and the second bar portion 32 (LB + LC > P).

[0076] The fourth fin length LD, which is the length from the second bar portion 32 of the fourth fin portion 39, and the first fin length LA, which is the length from the fourth bar portion 34 of the first fin portion 36, are both shorter than the interval P between the second bar portion 32 and the fourth bar portion 34 (LD < P, LA < P). The fourth fin length LD and the first fin length LA are of the same length (LD = LA). The sum of the fourth fin length LD and the first fin length LA is longer than the interval P between the second bar portion 32 and the fourth bar portion 34 (LD + LA > P).

[0077] The sum of the projection lengths LZA in the arrangement direction (Z direction) of the first fin portion 36 and the projection length LZD in the arrangement direction (Z direction) of the fourth fin portion 39 is shorter than the interval P between the first bar portion 31 and the third bar portion 33 in the non-compressed state (LZA + LZD < P). For this reason, in the non-compressed state, a gap G is provided in the arrangement direction (Z direction) between the tips of the first fin portion 36 and the fourth fin portion 39. Thereby, the first fin portion 36 and the fourth fin portion 39 are prevented from overlapping in the arrangement direction (Z direction). Such a spacer 13 can be manufactured at low cost.

[0078] The sum of the projection lengths LZB in the arrangement direction (Z direction) of the second fin portion 37 and the projection length LZC in the arrangement direction (Z direction) of the third fin portion 38 is shorter than the interval P between the first bar portion 31 and the second bar portion 32 in the non-compressed state (LZB + LZC < P). For this reason, in the non-compressed state, a gap G is provided in the arrangement direction (Z direction) between the tips of the second fin portion 37 and the third fin portion 38. Thereby, the second fin portion 37 and the third fin portion 38 are prevented from overlapping in the arrangement direction (Z direction). Such a spacer 13 can be manufactured at low cost.

[0079] The sum of the projection length LZD in the arrangement direction (Z direction) of the fourth fin portion 39 and the projection length LZA in the arrangement direction (Z direction) of the first fin portion 36 is shorter than the distance P between the second bar portion 32 and the fourth bar portion 34 in the non-compressed state (LZD + LZA < P). Therefore, in the non-compressed state, a gap G is provided in the arrangement direction (Z direction) between the tips of the fourth fin portion 39 and the first fin portion 36. As a result, the fourth fin portion 39 and the first fin portion 36 do not overlap in the arrangement direction (Z direction). Such a spacer 13 can be manufactured at a low cost.

[0080] (Compressed state) As shown in FIG. 7, in the compressed state, the right side surface of the bar portion 30 is in contact with the surface 21 of the right first battery cell 20A. The surface 21 of the left second battery cell 20B is in contact with the left side surface of the bar portion 30. That is, in the compressed state, the bar portion 30 is sandwiched between the surface 21 of the first battery cell 20A and the surface 21 of the second battery cell 20B, and is compressed in the stacking direction (X direction). Further, the bar portion 30 presses the surface 21 of the first battery cell 20A and the surface 21 of the second battery cell 20B in a direction away from each other by the reaction force against the compression. As a result, the contact between the adjacent battery cells 20 is suppressed by the bar portion 30. And a space 15 is formed between the two bar portions 30 adjacent to each other vertically, in which the surfaces 21 of the battery cells 20 adjacent to both sides of the spacer 13 are separated from each other.

[0081] Since the surface 21 of the right first battery cell 20A is in contact with the right side surface of the first bar portion 31, the first fin portion 36 provided on the first bar portion 31 is pressed to the left by the surface 21 of the right first battery cell 20A. By this pressing, the first fin portion 36 is in a state of being bent to the left more than in the non-compressed state along the surface 21 of the right first battery cell 20A. The bent first fin portion 36 extends upward along the surface 21 of the right first battery cell 20A. And the bent first fin portion 36 presses the surface 21 of the right first battery cell 20A to the right by the reaction force of the bending.

[0082] Because the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A is in contact with the right side surface of the first bar 31, the second fin 37 provided on the first bar 31 is pressed to the left by the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A. Due to this pressing, the second fin 37 is bent more to the left than in the uncompressed state along the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A. In this bent state, the second fin 37 extends downward along the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A. In this bent state, the second fin 37 presses the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A to the right due to the reaction force of the bending.

[0083] Because the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B is in contact with the left side surface of the second bar portion 32, the third fin portion 38 provided on the second bar portion 32 is pressed to the right by the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B. Due to this pressing, the third fin portion 38 is bent more to the right than in the uncompressed state along the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B. In this bent state, the third fin portion 38 extends upward along the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B. In this bent state, the third fin portion 38 presses the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B to the left due to the reaction force of the bending.

[0084] Because the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B is in contact with the left side surface of the second bar portion 32, the fourth fin portion 39 provided on the second bar portion 32 is pressed to the right by the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B. Due to this pressing, the fourth fin portion 39 is bent more to the right than in the uncompressed state along the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B. In this bent state, the fourth fin portion 39 extends downward along the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B. The reaction force from this bending causes the fourth fin portion 39 to press the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B to the left.

[0085] Because the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B is in contact with the left side surface of the third bar portion 33, the fourth fin portion 39 provided on the third bar portion 33 is pressed to the right by the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B. Due to this pressing, the fourth fin portion 39 is bent more to the right than in the uncompressed state along the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B. In this bent state, the fourth fin portion 39 extends downward along the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B. The reaction force of this bending causes the bent fourth fin portion 39 to press the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B to the left.

[0086] Because the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A is in contact with the right side surface of the fourth bar 34, the first fin 36 provided on the fourth bar 34 is pressed to the left by the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A. Due to this pressing, the first fin 36 is bent more to the left than in the uncompressed state along the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A. In this bent state, the first fin 36 extends upward along the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A. In this bent state, the first fin 36 presses the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A to the right due to the reaction force of the bending.

[0087] As described above, the first fin length LA of the first fin portion 36 and the fourth fin length LD of the fourth fin portion 39 are both shorter than the distance P between the first bar portion 31 and the third bar portion 33. Therefore, there is a portion of the surface 21 of the first right-side battery cell 20A that is not covered by the first fin portion 36 within the distance P between the first bar portion 31 and the third bar portion 33. Similarly, there is a portion of the surface 21 of the second left-side battery cell 20B that is not covered by the fourth fin portion 39 within the distance P between the first bar portion 31 and the third bar portion 33.

[0088] Similarly, the second fin length LB of the second fin portion 37 and the third fin length LC of the third fin portion 38 are both shorter than the distance P between the first bar portion 31 and the second bar portion 32. Therefore, there is a portion of the surface 21 of the first right-side battery cell 20A that is not covered by the second fin portion 37 within the distance P between the first bar portion 31 and the second bar portion 32. Furthermore, there is a portion of the surface 21 of the second left-side battery cell 20B that is not covered by the third fin portion 38 within the distance P between the first bar portion 31 and the second bar portion 32.

[0089] Similarly, the fourth fin length LD of the fourth fin portion 39 and the first fin length LA of the first fin portion 36 are both shorter than the distance P between the second bar portion 32 and the fourth bar portion 34. Therefore, there is a portion of the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B that is not covered by the fourth fin portion 39 within the distance P between the second bar portion 32 and the fourth bar portion 34. Also, there is a portion of the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A that is not covered by the first fin portion 36 within the distance P between the second bar portion 32 and the fourth bar portion 34.

[0090] Therefore, the surfaces 21 of the battery cells 20 on both sides of the spacer 13 have portions exposed to the space 15 at the interval P between the bar portions 30. In other words, when the battery cells 20 on both sides of the spacer 13 generate heat, they can dissipate the heat into the space 15. The space 15 is a passageway for cooling gas in the battery module 10, through which gas for cooling the battery cells 20 flows. As a result, the spacer 13 can cool the battery cells 20 on both sides while preventing the temperature difference between the adjacent battery cells 20 from becoming too large.

[0091] As described above, the sum of the first fin length LA of the first fin portion 36 and the fourth fin length LD of the fourth fin portion 39 is longer than the distance P between the first bar portion 31 and the third bar portion 33. Therefore, in the compressed state, the first fin portion 36 and the fourth fin portion 39 overlap in the arrangement direction (Z direction). That is, there is an overlap L between the tip of the first fin portion 36 and the tip of the fourth fin portion 39. Therefore, the first fin portion 36 presses at least a region of the first right battery cell 20A that faces a region of the second left battery cell 20B that is not pressed by the fourth fin portion 39. The fourth fin portion 39 presses at least a region of the second left battery cell 20B that faces a region of the first right battery cell 20A that is not pressed by the first fin portion 36. In other words, the battery cells 20 on either side of the spacer 13 have no gap in the arrangement direction (Z direction) at the interval P between the bar portions 30, and are pressed away from each other by at least one of the first fin portion 36 and the fourth fin portion 39. Furthermore, the battery cells 20 on either side of the spacer 13 do not come into contact with each other between the first bar portion 31 and the third bar portion 33. For example, even if the adjacent battery cells 20 expand and enter the space 15 while bending their respective first fin portion 36 and fourth fin portion 39, at least one of the first fin portion 36 and the fourth fin portion 39 will always be present between the adjacent battery cells 20. This allows the spacer 13 to reliably maintain insulation between the adjacent battery cells 20 on either side.

[0092] Similarly, the sum of the second fin length LB of the second fin portion 37 and the third fin length LC of the third fin portion 38 is longer than the distance P between the first bar portion 31 and the second bar portion 32. Therefore, in the compressed state, the second fin portion 37 and the third fin portion 38 overlap in the arrangement direction (Z direction). That is, there is an overlap L between the tip of the second fin portion 37 and the tip of the third fin portion 38. Therefore, the second fin portion 37 presses at least a region of the first right-side battery cell 20A that faces a region of the second left-side battery cell 20B that is not pressed by the third fin portion 38. The third fin portion 38 presses at least a region of the second left-side battery cell 20B that faces a region of the first right-side battery cell 20A that is not pressed by the second fin portion 37. In other words, the battery cells 20 on either side of the spacer 13 have no gap in the arrangement direction (Z direction) at the interval P between the bar portions 30, and are pressed away from each other by at least one of the second fin portion 37 and the third fin portion 38. Furthermore, the battery cells 20 on either side of the spacer 13 do not come into contact with each other between the first bar portion 31 and the second bar portion 32. For example, even if the adjacent battery cells 20 expand and enter the space 15 while bending their respective second fin portions 37 and third fin portions 38, at least one of the second fin portion 37 and the third fin portion 38 will always be present between the adjacent battery cells 20. This allows the spacer 13 to reliably maintain insulation between the adjacent battery cells 20.

[0093] Similarly, the sum of the fourth fin length LD of the fourth fin portion 39 and the first fin length LA of the first fin portion 36 is longer than the distance P between the second bar portion 32 and the fourth bar portion 34. Therefore, in the compressed state, the fourth fin portion 39 and the first fin portion 36 overlap in the arrangement direction (Z direction). That is, there is an overlap L between the tip of the fourth fin portion 39 and the tip of the first fin portion 36. Therefore, the first fin portion 36 presses at least a region of the first right battery cell 20A that faces a region of the second left battery cell 20B that is not pressed by the fourth fin portion 39. The fourth fin portion 39 presses at least a region of the second left battery cell 20B that faces a region of the first right battery cell 20A that is not pressed by the first fin portion 36. In other words, the battery cells 20 on either side of the spacer 13 have no gap in the arrangement direction (Z direction) at the interval P between the bar portions 30, and are pressed away from each other by at least one of the first fin portion 36 and the fourth fin portion 39. Furthermore, the battery cells 20 on either side of the spacer 13 do not come into contact with each other between the second bar portion 32 and the fourth bar portion 34. For example, even if the adjacent battery cells 20 expand and enter the space 15 while bending their respective fourth fin portions 39 and first fin portions 36, at least one of the fourth fin portion 39 and the first fin portion 36 will always be present between the adjacent battery cells 20. This allows the spacer 13 to reliably maintain insulation between the adjacent battery cells 20 on either side.

[0094] When compressed, the first fin portion 36 and the second fin portion 37 on the first bar portion 31 are pressed by the first battery cell 20A on the right side. At this time, both the first fin portion 36 and the second fin portion 37 are pressed to the left. Therefore, if the first bar portion 31 is used as the center of rotation, the force from the first fin portion 36 to the first bar portion 31 and the force from the second fin portion 37 to the first bar portion 31 are in opposite directions and cancel each other out. This prevents the first bar portion 31 from rotating.

[0095] Similarly, the third fin portion 38 and the fourth fin portion 39 on the second bar portion 32 are pressed by the second battery cell 20B on the left side during compression. At this time, both the third fin portion 38 and the fourth fin portion 39 are pressed to the right. Therefore, if the second bar portion 32 is used as the center of rotation, the force from the third fin portion 38 to the second bar portion 32 and the force from the fourth fin portion 39 to the second bar portion 32 are in opposite directions and cancel each other out. This prevents the second bar portion 32 from rotating.

[0096] As shown in FIG. 6, the thickness of the base end of the fin portion 35 is smaller than the thickness of the tip end of the fin portion 35. That is, the thickness of the base end 36A of the first fin portion 36 is smaller than the thickness of the tip end 36B. The thickness of the base end 37A of the second fin portion 37 is smaller than the thickness of the tip end 37B. The thickness of the base end 38A of the third fin portion 38 is smaller than the thickness of the tip end 38B. The thickness of the base end 39A of the fourth fin portion 39 is smaller than the thickness of the tip end 39B.

[0097] As shown in FIG. 7 , when the tip end of the fin portion 35 is pressed by the surfaces 21 of the adjacent battery cells 20, the thinner base end bends, causing the fin portion 35 to extend along the surfaces 21 of the battery cells 20. In other words, by providing a thinner portion within the fin portion 35, it is possible to actively cause the thinner portion to bend. Furthermore, when the fin portion 35 is pressed, it is possible to prevent the bar portion 30 from rotating together with the fin portion 35. This prevents the bar portion 30 from rotating, causing local loads on the battery cells 20 due to the corners of the bar portion 30, and prevents obstruction of the flow path of the cooling gas in the space 15.

[0098] Even if the battery cell 20 expands for some reason, the spacer 13 can prevent the battery cell 20 from entering the space 15 by the first fin portion 36, the second fin portion 37, the third fin portion 38, and the fourth fin portion 39 pressing against the battery cell 20. In other words, even if the battery cell 20 expands, the spacer 13 can prevent the length of the space 15 in the stacking direction (X direction) from becoming narrower, thereby ensuring an appropriate space 15. Therefore, the spacer 13 can prevent the flow rate of the cooling gas flowing in the space 15 from decreasing due to the expansion of the battery cell 20. Therefore, the spacer 13 can prevent a decrease in the cooling function of the cooling gas flowing in the space 15 for the battery cell 20 from decreasing.

[0099] Next, the effects of the second embodiment will be described. (2-1) The first fin portion 36 and the second fin portion 37 contact the surface 21 of the first battery cell 20A, thereby ensuring an appropriate distance from the surface 21 of the first battery cell 20A. The third fin portion 38 and the fourth fin portion 39 contact the surface 21 of the second battery cell 20B, thereby ensuring an appropriate distance from the surface 21 of the second battery cell 20B. Therefore, the spacer 13 ensures an appropriate distance between adjacent battery cells 20. Therefore, heat is appropriately dissipated into the space between the battery cells 20, allowing the battery cells 20 to be appropriately cooled. Furthermore, by providing a thin portion in the fin portion 35, the thin portion can be actively deflected. Then, by pressing the fin portion 35, rotation of the bar portion 30 together with the fin portion 35 can be suppressed.

[0100] (2-2) The first fin portion 36 is provided on the first bar portion 31, and the second fin portion 37 is provided on a second bar portion 32 that is different from the first bar portion 31. Therefore, the first bar portion 31 on which the first fin portion 36 is provided and the second bar portion 32 on which the second fin portion 37 is provided are in contact with the adjacent battery cells 20 separately, thereby ensuring insulation.

[0101] (2-3) The first bar portion 31 is provided with first fin portions 36 that are inclined with respect to the first arrangement direction and second fin portions 37 that are inclined with respect to the second arrangement direction, and the second bar portion 32 is provided with first fin portions 36 that are inclined with respect to the first arrangement direction and second fin portions 37 that are inclined with respect to the second arrangement direction. As a result, at least two fin portions 35 from each bar portion 30 come into contact with the battery cells 20. This ensures insulation between adjacent battery cells 20.

[0102] (Third embodiment) A third embodiment of a battery module and a spacer will be described below with reference to Figures 8 and 9. The battery module and spacer of this embodiment differ from those of the first embodiment in terms of the space-forming portion. The following description will focus on the differences from the first embodiment.

[0103] (Space forming part 13B) 8 and 9 are cross-sectional views of the space-forming portion 13B of the spacer 13. Fig. 8 shows the space-forming portion 13B in an uncompressed state together with the adjacent battery cells 20 on either side. Fig. 9 shows the space-forming portion 13B in a compressed state together with the adjacent battery cells 20 on either side.

[0104] As shown in FIG. 8, the bar portion 40 has, from top to bottom, a third bar portion 43, a first bar portion 41, a second bar portion 42, and a fourth bar portion 44. The first bar portion 41 is provided with a first fin portion 45 and a first stopper portion 46. The first fin portion 45 is inclined at a first angle θA with respect to a first arrangement direction (downward direction) in the arrangement direction (Z direction) in which the bar portions 40 are arranged, and extends in a first orthogonal direction (rightward in the figure) that is perpendicular to the arrangement direction (Z direction). The first stopper portion 46 is formed to extend in a second arrangement direction (upward) that is opposite to the first arrangement direction. The first fin portion 45 contacts the surface 21 of the first battery cell 20A on the right side in the figure. It is desirable that the first stopper portion 46 does not deform when compressed, so the thickness of the first stopper portion 46 is preferably greater than the thickness of the first fin portion 45.

[0105] The second bar portion 42 is provided with a second fin portion 47 and a second stopper portion 48. The second fin portion 47 is inclined at a third angle θC with respect to the first arrangement direction (downward) and extends in a second orthogonal direction (leftward in the figure) opposite the first orthogonal direction (rightward in the figure). The second stopper portion 48 is formed to extend in the second arrangement direction (upward). The second fin portion 47 contacts the surface 21 of the second battery cell 20B on the left side in the figure. The first angle θA and the third angle θC are the same angle. It is desirable that the second stopper portion 48 does not deform when compressed, so the thickness of the second stopper portion 48 is preferably greater than the thickness of the second fin portion 47.

[0106] A second fin portion 47 is provided on the third bar portion 43. The second fin portion 47 is inclined at a third angle θC with respect to the first arrangement direction (downward) and extends in the second orthogonal direction (leftward in the figure). The second fin portion 47 contacts the surface 21 of the second battery cell 20B on the left side.

[0107] The fourth bar portion 44 is provided with a first stopper portion 46. The first stopper portion 46 is formed to extend in the second arrangement direction (upward).

[0108] (uncompressed state) As shown in Fig. 8, in the uncompressed state, the tip of the first fin portion 45 on the first bar portion 41 protrudes further toward the first battery cell 20A on the right side in the figure than the first bar portion 41. In addition, in the uncompressed state, the tip of the second fin portion 47 on the second bar portion 42 protrudes further toward the second battery cell 20B on the left side than the second bar portion 42. The tip of the second fin portion 47 on the third bar portion 43 protrudes further toward the second battery cell 20B on the left side than the third bar portion 43. The first bar portion 41, second bar portion 42, third bar portion 43, and fourth bar portion 44 do not contact the surface 21 of the first battery cell 20A on the right side or the surface 21 of the second battery cell 20B on the left side.

[0109] The first fin length LA, which is the length from the first bar portion 41 of the first fin portion 45, and the second fin length LB, which is the length from the second bar portion 42 of the second stopper portion 48, are both shorter than the interval P between the first bar portion 41 and the second bar portion 42 (LA < P, LB < P). The sum of the first fin length LA and the second fin length LB is longer than the interval P between the first bar portion 41 and the second bar portion 42 (LA + LB > P).

[0110] The third fin length LC, which is the length from the third bar portion 43 of the second fin portion 47, and the fourth fin length LD, which is the length from the first bar portion 41 of the first stopper portion 46, are both shorter than the interval P between the first bar portion 41 and the third bar portion 43 (LC < P, LD < P). The sum of the third fin length LC and the fourth fin length LD is longer than the interval P between the first bar portion 41 and the third bar portion 43 (LC + LD > P).

[0111] The third fin length LC, which is the length from the second bar portion 42 of the second fin portion 47, and the fourth fin length LD, which is the length from the fourth bar portion 44 of the first stopper portion 46, are both shorter than the interval P between the second bar portion 42 and the fourth bar portion 44 (LC < P, LD < P). The sum of the third fin length LC and the fourth fin length LD is longer than the interval P between the second bar portion 42 and the fourth bar portion 44 (LC + LD > P).

[0112] The sum of the projection length LZA in the arrangement direction (Z direction) of the first fin portion 45 and the second fin length LB of the second stopper portion 48 is shorter than the interval P between the first bar portion 41 and the second bar portion 42 in the non-compressed state (LZA + LB < P). Therefore, in the non-compressed state, a gap G is provided in the arrangement direction (Z direction) between the tips of the first fin portion 45 and the second stopper portion 48. As a result, the first fin portion 45 and the second stopper portion 48 are prevented from overlapping in the arrangement direction (Z direction). Such a spacer 13 can be manufactured at a low cost.

[0113] The total of the projection length LZC in the array direction (Z direction) of the second fin portion 47 and the fourth fin length LD of the first stopper portion 46 is shorter than the distance P between the first bar portion 41 and the third bar portion 43 in the non-compressed state (LZC + LD < P). Therefore, in the non-compressed state, a gap G is provided in the array direction (Z direction) between the tip of the second fin portion 47 and the first stopper portion 46. As a result, the second fin portion 47 and the first stopper portion 46 are prevented from overlapping in the array direction (Z direction). Such a spacer 13 can be manufactured at a low cost.

[0114] The total of the projection length LZC in the array direction (Z direction) of the second fin portion 47 and the fourth fin length LD of the first stopper portion 46 is shorter than the distance P between the second bar portion 42 and the fourth bar portion 44 in the non-compressed state (LZC + LD < P). Therefore, in the non-compressed state, a gap G is provided in the array direction (Z direction) between the tip of the second fin portion 47 and the first stopper portion 46. As a result, the second fin portion 47 and the first stopper portion 46 are prevented from overlapping in the array direction (Z direction). Such a spacer 13 can be manufactured at a low cost.

[0115] (Compressed state) As shown in FIG. 9, in the compressed state, the right side surface of the bar portion 40 is in contact with the surface 21 of the right first battery cell 20A. The surface 21 of the left second battery cell 20B is in contact with the left side surface of the bar portion 40. That is, in the compressed state, the bar portion 40 is sandwiched between the surface 21 of the first battery cell 20A and the surface 21 of the second battery cell 20B, and is compressed in the stacking direction (X direction). Further, the bar portion 40 presses the surface 21 of the first battery cell 20A and the surface 21 of the second battery cell 20B in a direction away from each other by the reaction force against the compression. As a result, the contact between the adjacent battery cells 20 is suppressed by the bar portion 40. And a space 15 is formed between the two adjacent bar portions 40 in the vertical direction, in which the surfaces 21 of the battery cells 20 adjacent to both sides of the spacer 13 are separated from each other.

[0116] Because the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A is in contact with the right side surface of the first bar portion 41, the first fin portion 45 provided on the first bar portion 41 is pressed to the left by the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A. Due to this pressing, the first fin portion 45 is bent more to the left than in the uncompressed state along the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A. In this bent state, the first fin portion 45 extends downward along the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A. In this bent state, the first fin portion 45 presses the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A to the right due to the reaction force of the bending.

[0117] Because the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B is in contact with the left side surface of the second bar portion 42, the second fin portion 47 provided on the second bar portion 42 is pressed to the right by the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B. Due to this pressing, the second fin portion 47 is bent more to the right than in the uncompressed state along the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B. In this bent state, the second fin portion 47 extends downward along the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B. In this bent state, the second fin portion 47 presses the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B to the left due to the reaction force of the bending.

[0118] Because the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B is in contact with the left side surface of the third bar portion 43, the second fin portion 47 provided on the third bar portion 43 is pressed to the right by the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B. Due to this pressing, the second fin portion 47 is bent more to the right than in the uncompressed state along the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B. In this bent state, the second fin portion 47 extends downward along the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B. In this bent state, the second fin portion 47 presses the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B to the left due to the reaction force of the bending.

[0119] As described above, the first fin length LA of the first fin portion 45 and the second fin length LB of the second stopper portion 48 are both shorter than the distance P between the first bar portion 41 and the second bar portion 42. Therefore, there is a portion of the surface 21 of the first right-side battery cell 20A that is not covered by the first fin portion 45 within the distance P between the first bar portion 41 and the second bar portion 42. Similarly, there is a portion of the surface 21 of the second left-side battery cell 20B that is not covered by the second stopper portion 48 within the distance P between the first bar portion 41 and the second bar portion 42.

[0120] Similarly, the third fin length LC of the second fin portion 47 and the fourth fin length LD of the first stopper portion 46 are both shorter than the distance P between the first bar portion 41 and the third bar portion 43. Therefore, there is a portion of the surface 21 of the first right-side battery cell 20A that is not covered by the first stopper portion 46 within the distance P between the first bar portion 41 and the third bar portion 43. Furthermore, there is a portion of the surface 21 of the second left-side battery cell 20B that is not covered by the second fin portion 47 within the distance P between the first bar portion 41 and the third bar portion 43.

[0121] Similarly, the third fin length LC of the second fin portion 47 and the fourth fin length LD of the first stopper portion 46 are both shorter than the distance P between the second bar portion 42 and the fourth bar portion 44. Therefore, there is a portion of the surface 21 of the second left battery cell 20B that is not covered by the second fin portion 47 within the distance P between the second bar portion 42 and the fourth bar portion 44. Furthermore, there is a portion of the surface 21 of the first right battery cell 20A that is not covered by the first stopper portion 46 within the distance P between the second bar portion 42 and the fourth bar portion 44.

[0122] Therefore, the surfaces 21 of the battery cells 20 on both sides of the spacer 13 have portions exposed to the space 15 at the interval P between the bar portions 30. In other words, when the battery cells 20 on both sides of the spacer 13 generate heat, they can dissipate the heat into the space 15. The space 15 is a passageway for cooling gas in the battery module 10, through which gas for cooling the battery cells 20 flows. As a result, the spacer 13 can cool the battery cells 20 on both sides while preventing the temperature difference between the adjacent battery cells 20 from becoming too large.

[0123] As described above, the sum of the fourth fin length LD of the first stopper portion 46 and the third fin length LC of the second fin portion 47 is longer than the distance P between the first bar portion 41 and the third bar portion 43. Therefore, in the compressed state, the first stopper portion 46 and the second fin portion 47 overlap in the arrangement direction (Z direction). That is, an overlap L is provided between the tip of the first stopper portion 46 and the tip of the second fin portion 47. Therefore, the first stopper portion 46 presses at least a region of the right-side first battery cell 20A that faces a region of the left-side second battery cell 20B that is not pressed by the second fin portion 47. The second fin portion 47 presses at least a region of the left-side second battery cell 20B that faces a region of the right-side first battery cell 20A that is not pressed by the first stopper portion 46. In other words, the battery cells 20 on either side of the spacer 13 have no gap in the arrangement direction (Z direction) at the interval P between the bar portions 40, and are pressed away from each other by at least one of the first stopper portion 46 and the second fin portion 47. Furthermore, the battery cells 20 on either side of the spacer 13 do not come into contact with each other between the first bar portion 41 and the third bar portion 43. For example, even if the adjacent battery cells 20 expand and enter the space 15 while bending their respective first stopper portions 46 and second fin portions 47, at least one of the first stopper portion 46 and the second fin portion 47 will always be present between the adjacent battery cells 20. This allows the spacer 13 to reliably maintain insulation between the adjacent battery cells 20 on either side.

[0124] Similarly, the sum of the first fin length LA of the first fin portion 45 and the third fin length LC of the second stopper portion 48 is longer than the distance P between the first bar portion 41 and the second bar portion 42. Therefore, in the compressed state, the first fin portion 45 and the second stopper portion 48 overlap in the arrangement direction (Z direction). That is, there is an overlap L between the tip of the first fin portion 45 and the tip of the second stopper portion 48. Therefore, the first fin portion 45 presses at least a region of the first right battery cell 20A that faces a region of the second left battery cell 20B that is not pressed by the second stopper portion 48. The second stopper portion 48 presses at least a region of the second left battery cell 20B that faces a region of the first right battery cell 20A that is not pressed by the first fin portion 45. In other words, the battery cells 20 on either side of the spacer 13 have no gap in the arrangement direction (Z direction) at the interval P between the bar portions 30, and are pressed away from each other by at least one of the first fin portion 45 and the second stopper portion 48. Furthermore, the battery cells 20 on either side of the spacer 13 do not come into contact with each other between the first bar portion 41 and the second bar portion 42. For example, even if the adjacent battery cells 20 expand and enter the space 15 while bending their respective first fin portions 45 and second stopper portions 48, at least one of the first fin portion 45 and the second stopper portion 48 will always be present between the adjacent battery cells 20. This allows the spacer 13 to reliably maintain insulation between the adjacent battery cells 20 on either side.

[0125] Similarly, the sum of the third fin length LC of the second fin portion 47 and the fourth fin length LD of the first stopper portion 46 is longer than the distance P between the second bar portion 42 and the fourth bar portion 44. Therefore, in the compressed state, the second fin portion 47 and the first stopper portion 46 overlap in the arrangement direction (Z direction). That is, there is an overlap L between the tip of the second fin portion 47 and the tip of the first stopper portion 46. Therefore, the second fin portion 47 presses at least a region of the first right battery cell 20A that faces a region of the second left battery cell 20B that is not pressed by the first stopper portion 46. The first stopper portion 46 presses at least a region of the second left battery cell 20B that faces a region of the first right battery cell 20A that is not pressed by the second fin portion 47. In other words, the battery cells 20 on either side of the spacer 13 have no gap in the arrangement direction (Z direction) at the interval P between the bar portions 30, and are pressed away from each other by at least one of the second fin portions 47 and the first stopper portions 46. Furthermore, the battery cells 20 on either side of the spacer 13 do not come into contact with each other between the second bar portion 42 and the fourth bar portion 44. For example, even if the adjacent battery cells 20 expand and enter the space 15 while bending their respective second fin portions 47 and first stopper portions 46, at least one of the second fin portions 47 and the first stopper portions 46 will always be present between the adjacent battery cells 20. This allows the spacer 13 to reliably maintain insulation between the adjacent battery cells 20 on either side.

[0126] When compressed, the first fin portion 45 provided on the first bar portion 41 is pressed by the first battery cell 20A on the right side. At this time, the first fin portion 45 is pressed to the left. Therefore, if the first bar portion 41 is used as the rotation center, even if the force applied from the first fin portion 45 to the first bar portion 41 causes the first bar portion 41 to rotate, the rotation of the first bar portion 41 is restricted by the first stopper portion 46. This prevents the first bar portion 41 from rotating and causing local loads on the battery cell 20 due to the corners of the first bar portion 41, or blocking the flow path of the cooling gas in the space 15.

[0127] Similarly, the second fin portion 47 on the second bar portion 42 is pressed by the second battery cell 20B on the left side during compression. At this time, the second fin portion 47 is pressed to the right. Therefore, if the second bar portion 42 is used as the rotation center, even if the second bar portion 42 attempts to rotate due to the force applied from the second fin portion 47 to the second bar portion 42, the rotation of the second bar portion 42 is restricted by the second stopper portion 48. This prevents the second bar portion 42 from rotating and causing local loads on the battery cell 20 due to the corners of the second bar portion 42, or blocking the flow path of the cooling gas in the space 15.

[0128] 8, the thickness of base end 45A of first fin portion 45 is smaller than the thickness of tip end 45B. Also, the thickness of base end 47A of second fin portion 47 is smaller than the thickness of tip end 47B.

[0129] As shown in FIG. 9 , when the tip end 45B of the first fin portion 45 is pressed by the surfaces 21 of the adjacent battery cells 20, the base end 45A (thicker), which has a smaller thickness, bends, causing the first fin portion 45 to extend along the surfaces 21 of the battery cell 20. When the tip end 47B of the second fin portion 47 is pressed by the surfaces 21 of the adjacent battery cells 20, the base end 47A (thicker), which has a smaller thickness, bends, causing the second fin portion 47 to extend along the surfaces 21 of the battery cell 20. That is, by providing thin portions in the first fin portion 45 and the second fin portion 47, it is possible to actively bend the thin portions. Furthermore, pressing the first fin portion 45 and the second fin portion 47 can suppress rotation of the bar portion 40 together with the first fin portion 45 and the second fin portion 47. In particular, the first stopper portion 46 is provided on the first bar portion 41, which further suppresses rotation of the first bar portion 41.

[0130] Even if the battery cell 20 expands for some reason, the spacer 13 can prevent the battery cell 20 from entering the space 15 by the first fin portion 45, the first stopper portion 46, the second fin portion 47, and the second stopper portion 48 pressing against the battery cell 20. In other words, even if the battery cell 20 expands, the spacer 13 can prevent the length of the space 15 in the stacking direction (X direction) from becoming narrower, thereby ensuring an appropriate space 15. Therefore, the spacer 13 can prevent the flow rate of the cooling gas flowing in the space 15 from decreasing due to the expansion of the battery cell 20. Therefore, the spacer 13 can prevent a decrease in the cooling function of the cooling gas flowing in the space 15 for the battery cell 20 from decreasing.

[0131] Next, the effects of the third embodiment will be described. (3-1) The first fin portion 45 and the first stopper portion 46 contact the surface 21 of the first battery cell 20A, thereby ensuring an appropriate distance from the surface 21 of the first battery cell 20A. The second fin portion 47 and the second stopper portion 48 contact the surface 21 of the second battery cell 20B, thereby ensuring an appropriate distance from the surface 21 of the second battery cell 20B. Therefore, the spacer 13 ensures an appropriate distance between adjacent battery cells 20. This allows heat to be appropriately dissipated into the space 15 between the battery cells 20, thereby allowing the battery cells 20 to be appropriately cooled. Furthermore, by providing thin portions in the first fin portion 45 and the second fin portion 47, the thin portions can be actively deflected. Furthermore, by pressing the first fin portion 45 and the second fin portion 47, rotation of the bar portion 40 together with the first fin portion 45 and the second fin portion 47 can be suppressed.

[0132] (3-2) The first fin portion 45 is provided on the first bar portion 41, and the second fin portion 47 is provided on a second bar portion 42 that is different from the first bar portion 41. Therefore, the first bar portion 41 on which the first fin portion 45 is provided and the second bar portion 42 on which the second fin portion 47 is provided are separately in contact with each other in both adjacent battery cells 20, thereby ensuring insulation.

[0133] (3-3) The first bar portion 41 is provided with first fin portions 45 that are inclined with respect to the first arrangement direction and first stopper portions 46 that extend in the second arrangement direction, and the second bar portion 42 is provided with first fin portions 45 that are inclined with respect to the first arrangement direction and second stopper portions 48 that extend in the second arrangement direction. As a result, at least the fin portions and stopper portions of each bar portion 40 come into contact with the battery cells 20. This ensures insulation between adjacent battery cells 20.

[0134] (Other embodiments) The above-described embodiments can be modified as follows: The above-described embodiments and the following modifications can be combined with each other within the scope of technical compatibility.

[0135] In the above embodiments, the arrangement direction of the bar portions is the vertical direction (Z direction) of the battery cells 20. However, the arrangement direction of the bar portions may also be the width direction (Y direction) of the battery cells 20. Furthermore, the number of bar portions can be changed as appropriate.

[0136] The above embodiments are applicable to any type of battery, such as a nickel-metal hydride secondary battery or a lithium-ion secondary battery, and there is no particular limitation thereon. [Explanation of symbols]

[0137] 10...Battery module 11...Lower case 11A...Floor section 11B...End wall section 13...Spacer 13A…Space forming part 13B…Space forming part 14...End plate 15…Space 20...Battery cell 20A…1st battery cell 20B...Second battery cell 21...face 30...Bar section 31...First bar section 32...Second bar section 33...Third bar section 34...4th bar section 35...Fin section 36...First fin part 37...Second fin part 38...Third fin part 39...Fourth fin 40...Bar section 41...First bar section 42...Second bar section 43...Third bar section 44...4th bar section 45...First fin part 46...First stopper part 47...Second fin part 48...Second stopper part 50...Bar section 51...First bar section 52...Second bar section 53...Third bar section 54...4th bar section 55...Fin section 56...First fin part 57...Second fin part LA...First fin length LB: Second fin length LC: Third fin length LD...4th fin length

Claims

1. A battery module in which a plurality of battery cells and synthetic resin spacers disposed between the battery cells are alternately stacked, The spacer is a plurality of bar portions arranged at intervals along the battery cell; a first fin portion provided on the bar portion, extending toward one of the battery cells at an angle with respect to the arrangement direction of the bar portions, and contacting a surface of the one of the battery cells; a second fin portion that is provided on the bar portion, is inclined with respect to the arrangement direction, extends toward the other battery cell that is different from the one battery cell, and comes into contact with a surface of the other battery cell; The thickness of the base end portion of the first fin portion and the second fin portion is smaller than the thickness of the tip end portion of the first fin portion and the second fin portion. Battery module.

2. The first fin portion and the second fin portion are provided on the same bar portion among the plurality of bar portions. The battery module according to claim 1 .

3. the first fin portion is inclined with respect to a first arrangement direction of the arrangement direction, The second fin portion is inclined with respect to a second arrangement direction opposite to the first arrangement direction. The battery module according to claim 2 .

4. the first fin portion is provided on a first bar portion of the plurality of bar portions, The second fin portion is provided on a second bar portion different from the first bar portion among the plurality of bar portions. The battery module according to claim 1 .

5. Two of the first fin portions are provided, one of the first fin portions is inclined with respect to a first arrangement direction of the arrangement direction, the other of the first fin portions is inclined with respect to a second arrangement direction opposite to the first arrangement direction, Two of the second fin portions are provided, one of the second fin portions is inclined with respect to a first arrangement direction of the arrangement direction, The other of the second fin portions is inclined with respect to a second arrangement direction opposite to the first arrangement direction. The battery module according to claim 4 .

6. the first fin portion is inclined with respect to a first arrangement direction of the arrangement direction, the second fin portion is inclined with respect to the first arrangement direction, a first stopper portion formed on the first bar portion and extending in a second arrangement direction opposite to the first arrangement direction; a second stopper portion formed on the second bar portion and extending in the second arrangement direction; The battery module according to claim 4 .

7. A spacer made of synthetic resin and arranged between a plurality of battery cells that constitute a battery module, A plurality of bar portions arranged at intervals from each other; a first fin portion provided on the bar portion and extending toward one of the battery cells at an angle with respect to the arrangement direction of the bar portions; a second fin portion provided on the bar portion and formed to be inclined with respect to the arrangement direction and extend toward the other battery cell that is different from the one battery cell, The thickness of the base end portion of the first fin portion and the second fin portion is smaller than the thickness of the tip end portion of the first fin portion and the second fin portion. Spacer.

8. The first fin portion and the second fin portion are provided on the same bar portion among the plurality of bar portions. The spacer according to claim 7.

9. the first fin portion is inclined with respect to a first arrangement direction of the arrangement direction, The second fin portion is inclined with respect to a second arrangement direction opposite to the first arrangement direction. The spacer according to claim 8 .

10. the first fin portion is provided on a first bar portion of the plurality of bar portions, The second fin portion is provided on a second bar portion different from the first bar portion among the plurality of bar portions. The spacer according to claim 7.

11. Two of the first fin portions are provided, one of the first fin portions is inclined with respect to a first arrangement direction of the arrangement direction, the other of the first fin portions is inclined with respect to a second arrangement direction opposite to the first arrangement direction, Two of the second fin portions are provided, one of the second fin portions is inclined with respect to a first arrangement direction of the arrangement direction, The other of the second fin portions is inclined with respect to a second arrangement direction opposite to the first arrangement direction. The spacer of claim 10.

12. the first fin portion is inclined with respect to a first arrangement direction of the arrangement direction, the second fin portion is inclined with respect to the first arrangement direction, a first stopper portion formed on the first bar portion and extending in a second arrangement direction opposite to the first arrangement direction; a second stopper portion formed on the second bar portion and extending in the second arrangement direction; The spacer of claim 10.

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