Method for manufacturing a heat exchanger, heat exchanger, power storage device, and power storage device pack

Abstract

To provide a method for manufacturing a heat exchanger, the method enabling manufacturing of a heat exchanger having flat both main surfaces.SOLUTION: According to the present disclosure, a heat exchanger manufactured by a method for manufacturing a heat exchanger comprises: a particular first metal plate and second metal plate; and a zigzag metal plate which is arranged between the first and second metal plates and includes a third metal plate formed in a zigzag shape. The zigzag metal plate has a plurality of mountain portions joined to the first metal plate and a plurality of valley portions joined to the second metal plate. The third metal plate deforms more easily than the first and second metal plates. The method includes: preparing a laminated plate by layering the first metal plate, the third metal plate and the second metal plate in this order; joining the first metal plate and the third metal plate at regions corresponding to the mountain portions, of the laminated plate; and joining the second metal plate and the third metal plate at regions corresponding to the valley portions, of the laminated plate.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a method for manufacturing a heat exchanger, a heat exchanger, an electricity storage device, and an electricity storage device pack. [Background technology]

[0002] BACKGROUND ART Heat exchangers have conventionally been used to cool or heat a heat exchange object (for example, a battery).

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a method for manufacturing a heat exchanger. The manufacturing method disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a peripheral welding step, a depressurizing step, an internal welding step, and a swelling step. The peripheral welding step, the depressurizing step, the internal welding step, and the swelling step are performed in this order. According to the manufacturing method disclosed in Patent Document 1, a heat exchanger 900 shown in FIG. 9 is obtained. The heat exchanger 900 is a plate-shaped object.

[0004] In the peripheral welding process, two plate materials 910, 920 are overlapped and a weld 930 is formed around the entire periphery of the outer edge surfaces using a laser. In the depressurization process, air remaining in the gap between the two plate materials 910, 920 is sucked out to the outside using a vacuum pump through openings previously provided on the surface of each of the two plate materials 910, 920. In the internal welding process, while the gap between the two plate materials 910, 920 is maintained at a reduced pressure, a weld 940 is formed between the two plate materials 910, 920 using a laser on the plate surfaces of the two plate materials 910, 920, dividing the two plate materials 910, 920 into a bulging portion 901 and a non-bulging portion 902. In the swelling process, a fluid is injected into the bulging portion 901 to cause swelling deformation.

[0005] In the heat exchanger 100, by passing a fluid through the bulging portion 901, heat exchange occurs between the fluid passing through the bulging portion 901 and the surrounding fluid outside the heat exchanger 100. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-111640 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] As shown in FIG. 9 , the heat exchanger 100 has an uneven shape on both main surfaces. When a heat exchange object is brought into direct contact with the main surfaces of the heat exchanger 100, the heat exchange object is likely to come into contact with only a portion of the main surfaces of the heat exchanger 100 (specifically, a plurality of bulging portions 901). This may result in inefficient heat exchange between the heat exchange object and the heat exchange object. Furthermore, when the heat exchange object is brought into indirect contact with the main surfaces of the heat exchanger 100 via a thermally conductive material (e.g., thermally conductive paste), in order to efficiently exchange heat between the heat exchange object and the heat exchange object, it is necessary to fill the recesses of the uneven shape on the main surfaces of the heat exchanger 100 with a thermally conductive material. This may result in a risk of using a large amount of thermally conductive material. Therefore, there is a demand for a method of manufacturing a heat exchanger that can manufacture a heat exchanger with flat main surfaces.

[0008] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of the above circumstances. An object of one embodiment of the present disclosure is to provide a method for manufacturing a heat exchanger that can manufacture a heat exchanger having flat main surfaces, a heat exchanger, an electricity storage device, and an electricity storage device pack. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The means for solving the above problems include the following embodiments.

[0010] <1> A method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to a first aspect of the present disclosure includes: 1. A method of manufacturing a heat exchanger, comprising: The heat exchanger comprises a first metal plate having at least one first through hole, a second metal plate having at least one second through hole, and a third metal plate disposed between the first metal plate and the second metal plate and formed in a zigzag shape; The zigzag metal plate has a plurality of peaks joined to the first metal plate and a plurality of valleys joined to the second metal plate, a first flow path communicating with the first through hole is formed between the first metal plate and the zigzag metal plate, and a second flow path communicating with the second through hole is formed between the second metal plate and the zigzag metal plate, the third metal plate is more easily deformed than each of the first metal plate and the second metal plate, stacking the first metal plate, the third metal plate, and the second metal plate in this order to produce a laminated plate; joining the first metal body and the third metal plate in a region corresponding to the peak portion of the laminated plate; and joining the second metal body and the third metal plate in an area corresponding to the valley portion of the laminated plate.

[0011] "Tsuzuraori" refers to a shape that is bent like the vines of the Japanese holly tree (i.e., wavy). The term "flow path" refers to a space through which a heat exchange medium flows. "Easily deformable" refers to a property of being relatively low in rigidity and easily deforming under the action of pressure.

[0012] In the first aspect, when a fluid is pressurized into each of the first through holes and the second through holes of the laminate plate, portions of the third metal plate constituting the first flow path and the second flow path are selectively expanded to form the first flow path and the second flow path. At this time, each of the first metal plate and the second metal plate is less likely to deform. In other words, the first metal plate and the second metal plate are more likely to maintain the shape they had before the fluid was pressurized into each of the first through holes and the second through holes of the laminate plate. As a result, the heat exchanger manufacturing method of the first aspect can manufacture a heat exchanger with both flat main surfaces. Furthermore, a zigzag metal plate that is difficult to deform is usually manufactured using a mold, which is expensive. As a result, the method for manufacturing a heat exchanger of the first aspect allows for the manufacture of a heat exchanger at low cost.

[0013] <2> A method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to a second aspect of the present disclosure includes: The method further includes injecting a fluid into each of the first through hole and the second through hole to expand the third metal plate. <1> 1. A method for manufacturing the heat exchanger according to claim 1.

[0014] In the second aspect, a first flow path is formed between the first metal plate and the zigzag metal plate, and a second flow path is formed between the second metal plate and the zigzag metal plate. As a result, the heat exchanger manufacturing method of the second aspect can manufacture a heat exchanger having flat main surfaces.

[0015] <3> A method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to a third aspect of the present disclosure includes: the zigzag metal plate does not have a third through hole that connects the first flow path and the second flow path, the plurality of ridges include a plurality of first ridges formed at first intervals along a first direction perpendicular to a thickness direction of the heat exchanger, the plurality of valleys include a plurality of first valleys formed at second intervals along the first direction; <1> or the above <2> 1. A method for manufacturing the heat exchanger according to claim 1.

[0016] In the third aspect, the zigzag metal plate does not have a third through hole. In other words, the first flow path and the second flow path are independent. When a fluid is injected through the first through hole of the laminated plate, the distribution of the magnitude of the pressure applied to the first metal plate is more likely to be uniform than when a laminated plate does not include a plurality of first peaks formed at a first interval. When a fluid is injected through the second through hole of the laminated plate, the distribution of the magnitude of the pressure applied to the second metal plate is more likely to be uniform than when a laminated plate does not include a plurality of first valleys formed at a second interval. As a result, the heat exchanger manufacturing method of the third aspect can manufacture a heat exchanger with flatter main surfaces.

[0017] <4> A method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure includes: each of the first peaks and the first valleys extends along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction and the thickness direction of the heat exchanger; the first peaks and the first valleys are alternately formed along the first direction; <3> 1. A method for manufacturing the heat exchanger according to claim 1.

[0018] In the fourth aspect, when a fluid is injected through the first through-holes in the laminate, the distribution of the pressure magnitude applied to the first metal plate is more likely to be uniform than in the third aspect. Also, when a fluid is injected through the second through-holes in the laminate, the distribution of the pressure magnitude applied to the second metal plate is more likely to be uniform than in the third aspect. As a result, the method for manufacturing a heat exchanger of the fourth aspect can manufacture a heat exchanger having flatter main surfaces.

[0019] <5> A method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure includes: each of the first metal plate and the second metal plate includes a 6000 series aluminum alloy; the third metal plate contains 1000 series aluminum; <1> ~The above <4> 1. A method for manufacturing the heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

[0020] "6000 series aluminum alloy" refers to an Al-Mg-Si aluminum alloy specified by JIS. "1000 series aluminum" refers to pure aluminum as specified by JIS.

[0021] The rigidity of 1000 series aluminum is lower than that of 6000 series aluminum alloy. In other words, the third metal plate is more easily deformed than each of the first metal plate and the second metal plate. As a result, the heat exchanger manufacturing method of the fifth aspect can manufacture a heat exchanger with both flat main surfaces.

[0022] <6> A method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure includes: The thickness of each of the first metal plate and the second metal plate is 1.00 mm or more, The thickness of the third metal plate is less than 1.00 mm. <1> ~The above <5> The present invention provides a method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to any one of the above.

[0023] The rigidity of the third metal plate is lower than the rigidity of each of the first metal plate and the second metal plate. That is, the third metal plate is more easily deformed than each of the first metal plate and the second metal plate. As a result, the heat exchanger manufacturing method of the sixth aspect can manufacture a heat exchanger having flat main surfaces.

[0024] <7> A method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure includes: the zigzag metal plate further has at least one third through hole communicating the first flow path and the second flow path; the plurality of ridges include a plurality of first ridges formed at first intervals along a first direction perpendicular to a thickness direction of the heat exchanger, the plurality of valleys include a plurality of first valleys formed at second intervals along the first direction, The first interval and the second interval are equal, <1> ~The above <6> The present invention provides a method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to any one of the above.

[0025] In the seventh aspect, the zigzag metal plate has a third through hole. That is, the first flow path and the second flow path are connected. The first interval and the second interval are equal. As a result, when a fluid is pressed into the first through hole and the second through hole of the laminate plate, the distribution of the magnitude of the pressure applied to each of the first metal plate and the second metal plate is more likely to be uniform than when the first interval and the second interval are not equal. As a result, the heat exchanger manufacturing method of the seventh aspect can manufacture a heat exchanger with flatter main surfaces.

[0026] <8> A method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure includes: preparing a first brazing sheet having a first brazing filler metal layer formed on one main surface of the first metal plate for joining the plurality of peaks to the first metal plate, and a second brazing sheet having a second brazing filler metal layer formed on one main surface of the second metal plate for joining the plurality of valleys to the second metal plate; applying a first release agent to an area of ​​the main surface of the first brazing material layer excluding an area where the plurality of ridges are joined, to prepare a first brazing sheet with a release agent; Applying a second release agent to an area of ​​the main surface of the second brazing layer excluding an area where the plurality of valley portions are joined, to prepare a second brazing sheet with a release agent; and In producing the laminated plate, the first brazing sheet with a release agent, the third metal plate, and the second brazing sheet are laminated in this order, so as to produce the laminated plate; In joining the first metal plate and the third metal plate and joining the second metal plate and the third metal plate, the laminated plate is heated to braze the first metal plate and the third metal plate and braze the second metal plate and the third metal plate. <1> ~The above <7> The present invention provides a method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to any one of the above.

[0027] In an eighth aspect, the first metal plate and the plurality of peaks are joined by brazing, and the second metal plate and the plurality of valleys are joined by brazing. As a result, the heat exchanger manufacturing method of the eighth aspect can manufacture a heat exchanger more easily than when the joining method is not brazing.

[0028] <9> A heat exchanger according to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure includes: A metal plate having a first metal plate with at least one first through hole, a second metal plate with at least one second through hole, and a third metal plate disposed between the first metal plate and the second metal plate and formed in a zigzag shape, The zigzag metal plate has a plurality of peaks joined to the first metal plate and a plurality of valleys joined to the second metal plate, a first flow path communicating with the first through hole is formed between the first metal plate and the zigzag metal plate, and a second flow path communicating with the second through hole is formed between the second metal plate and the zigzag metal plate, In the heat exchanger, the zigzag metal plate is more easily deformed than each of the first metal plate and the second metal plate.

[0029] In the ninth aspect, the zigzag metal plate is more easily deformed than each of the first metal plate and the second metal plate. That is, the third metal plate is more easily deformed than each of the first metal plate and the second metal plate. The heat exchanger of the ninth aspect is suitably manufactured by the heat exchanger manufacturing method of the first aspect. Therefore, both main surfaces of the ninth heat exchanger are flat. As a result, the heat exchanger of the ninth aspect can efficiently adjust the heat of the heat exchange object.

[0030] <10> A heat exchanger according to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure comprises: Each of the front main surface of the first metal plate and the front main surface of the second metal plate is flat. <9> 1. A heat exchanger according to claim 1.

[0031] In the tenth aspect, the front main surface of the first metal plate and the front main surface of the second metal plate are each more likely to come into direct contact with the heat exchange object than when the front main surface of the first metal plate and the front main surface of the second metal plate are not planar. As a result, the heat exchanger of the tenth aspect can more efficiently regulate the heat of the heat exchange object.

[0032] <11> A heat exchanger according to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure comprises: The thickness is 10 mm or less. <9> 1. A heat exchanger according to claim 1.

[0033] The heat exchanger of the eleventh aspect is suitably used as a cooler for cooling the electricity storage module included in the electricity storage device of the twelfth aspect described below.

[0034] <12> An electricity storage device according to an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure includes: a plurality of stacked energy storage modules; The power storage module is provided between adjacent power storage modules in the stacking direction of the power storage modules. <9> ~ <11> a heat exchanger according to any one of the above items; Equipped with each of the plurality of power storage modules has an electrode stack including a plurality of electrodes stacked along a stacking direction of the power storage module with separators interposed therebetween, an electrolyte solution accommodated in an internal space formed between adjacent electrodes, and a sealing body that surrounds a side surface of the electrode stack along the stacking direction and seals the internal space; the plurality of electrodes includes a negative terminal electrode, a positive terminal electrode, and a plurality of bipolar electrodes stacked between the negative terminal electrode and the positive terminal electrode; Each of the plurality of bipolar electrodes includes an electrode plate, a positive electrode provided on a first surface of the electrode plate, and a negative electrode provided on a second surface of the electrode plate, the electrode stack has electrode exposed portions exposed from the sealing body at one end and the other end in the stacking direction, In the electricity storage device, the heat exchanger is disposed in contact with the electrode exposed portions facing each other between the electricity storage modules adjacent to each other in the stacking direction.

[0035] In the twelfth aspect, both main surfaces of the heat exchanger are flat. Therefore, the contact area between the exposed electrode portions and the heat exchanger is larger than when both main surfaces of the heat exchanger are not flat. As a result, the energy storage device of the twelfth aspect can efficiently regulate the heat of the energy storage module.

[0036] <13> The power storage device pack of the present disclosure includes: The aforementioned <12> and a lower case that houses the power storage device.

[0037] The electricity storage device pack of the thirteenth aspect can efficiently regulate the heat of the electricity storage module. [Effects of the Invention]

[0038] According to the present disclosure, a heat exchanger, a power storage device, and a power storage device pack are provided that enable the manufacture of a heat exchanger having flat main surfaces. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0039] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a heat exchanger according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the heat exchanger of FIG. 1 taken along line C2-C2. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the heat exchanger of FIG. 1 taken along line C3-C3. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining a method for manufacturing the heat exchanger according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining a method for manufacturing the heat exchanger according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the electricity storage device pack according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the power storage module according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a heat exchanger according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a conventional heat exchanger. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0040] In the present disclosure, a numerical range indicated using "to" means a range that includes the numerical values ​​before and after "to" as the minimum and maximum values, respectively. In numerical ranges described in stages in the present disclosure, the upper or lower limit value described in a certain numerical range may be replaced with the upper or lower limit value of another numerical range described in stages. In the present disclosure, a combination of two or more preferred embodiments is a more preferred embodiment. In the present disclosure, the term "process" includes not only an independent process, but also a process that cannot be clearly distinguished from other processes, as long as the intended purpose of the process is achieved.

[0041] Hereinafter, embodiments of a heat exchanger manufacturing method, a heat exchanger, a power storage device, and a power storage device pack according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are designated by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will not be repeated.

[0042] (1) First embodiment The method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure is a method for manufacturing a heat exchanger 1A.

[0043] (1.1) Heat exchanger As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the heat exchanger 1A includes a first metal plate 11, a second metal plate 12, a zigzag metal plate 13A, a first brazing filler metal layer 14 (see FIG. 2), and a second brazing filler metal layer 15 (see FIG. 2). The first brazing filler metal layer 14 is laminated on a main surface BS11 of the first metal plate 11. The second brazing filler metal layer 15 is laminated on a main surface BS12 of the second metal plate 11. The zigzag metal plate 13A is disposed between the first metal plate 11 and the second metal plate 12. The zigzag metal plate 13A is brazed to the first metal plate 11 and the second metal plate 12 by the first brazing filler metal layer 14 and the second brazing filler metal layer 15. The heat exchanger 1A is a hexahedron.

[0044] Hereinafter, one side of the thickness direction of the heat exchanger 1A is defined as the positive Z-axis direction, and the opposite side is defined as the negative Z-axis direction. One side of the direction in which one side of the main surface of the heat exchanger 1A extends is defined as the positive X-axis direction (an example of a first direction), and the opposite side is defined as the negative X-axis direction. One side of the main surface of the heat exchanger 1A in a direction perpendicular to the X-axis is defined as the positive Y-axis direction (an example of a second direction), and the opposite side is defined as the negative Y-axis direction. The X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are each perpendicular to one another. Note that these directions do not limit the orientation of the heat exchanger 1A during use.

[0045] The thickness L1 (length L1 in the Z-axis direction) of the heat exchanger 1A (see FIG. 2) is 10 mm or less. The thickness L1 may be 4 mm to 5 mm. The length L2 of the heat exchanger 1A in the X-axis direction and the length L3 of the heat exchanger 1A in the Y-axis direction may be, for example, 1000 mm to 2000 mm. The lengths L2 and L3 may be the same or different.

[0046] The heat exchanger 1A is suitably used as a cooler for cooling the electricity storage module of an electricity storage device pack, which will be described later.

[0047] (1.1.1) First metal plate The first metal plate 11 is a flat plate-like object. A main surface TS11 (an example of a main surface) of the first metal plate 11 is flat. The first metal plate 11 has two first through holes TH1. A thickness L4 (see FIG. 2) of the first metal plate 11 is 1.00 mm or more. The thickness L4 may be 1.00 mm to 3.00 mm, or may be 1.6 mm. The first metal plate 11 includes a 6000 series aluminum alloy and may be a 6000 series aluminum alloy. Examples of the 6000 series aluminum alloy include aluminum alloys with alloy numbers 6101, 6061, 6082, etc.

[0048] (1.1.2)Second metal plate The second metal plate 12 is a flat plate-like object. A main surface TS12 (an example of a main surface) of the second metal plate 12 is flat. The second metal plate 12 has two second through holes TH2. The thickness L5 (see FIG. 2) of the second metal plate 12 is 1.00 mm or more. The thickness L5 may be 1.00 mm to 3.00 mm, or may be 1.6 mm. The second metal plate 11 includes a 6000 series aluminum alloy and may be a 6000 series aluminum alloy. The second metal plate 12 may be the same as or different from the first metal plate 11.

[0049] (1.1.3) Zigzag-shaped metal plate The zigzag metal plate 13A is formed by zigzag-folding a third metal plate (not shown). The third metal plate is a flat plate. The third metal plate and the zigzag metal plate 13A are more easily deformed than the first metal plate 11 and the second metal plate 12. Specifically, the third metal plate has a thickness of less than 1.00 mm, and may be 0.6 mm to 0.1 mm, or may be 0.3 mm. The third metal plate includes 1000-series aluminum, and may be 1000-series aluminum. Examples of 1000-series aluminum include pure aluminum with alloy numbers 1085, 1080, 1070, 1060, 1050, and 1050A.

[0050] As shown in Figure 2, the zigzag metal plate 13A has a plurality of peaks M13 joined to the first metal plate 11 by a first solder layer 14 and a plurality of valleys V13 joined to the second metal plate 12 by a second solder layer 15.

[0051] The multiple peaks M13 include multiple linear peaks M13A (an example of first peaks) and frame-shaped peaks M13B formed along the periphery of the first metal plate 11. The linear peaks M13A extend along the Y-axis direction. The multiple linear peaks M13A are formed along the X-axis direction at first intervals L6. The frame-shaped peaks M13B surround the multiple linear peaks M13A.

[0052] The plurality of valleys V13 include a plurality of linear valleys V13A (an example of first valleys) and a frame-shaped valley V13B formed along the periphery of the first metal plate 11. The linear valleys V13A extend along the Y-axis direction. Each of the plurality of linear valleys V13A is formed along the X-axis direction at a second interval L7. The frame-shaped valley V13B surrounds the plurality of linear valleys V13A. In the first embodiment, the second interval L7 is the same as the first interval L6.

[0053] The frame-shaped peak M13B surrounds the frame-shaped valley V13B. A gap L8 (see FIG. 3) is formed between the frame-shaped peak M13B and the frame-shaped valley V13B in each of the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction. A gap L8 (see FIG. 2) is formed between one linear peak M13A and the adjacent linear peak M13A in the X-axis direction. The length of the gap L8 is half the length of each of the first gap L6 and the second gap L7.

[0054] A first flow path R1 communicating with the first through hole TH1 is formed between the first metal plate 11 and the zigzag metal plate 13A. A second flow path R2 communicating with the second through hole TH2 is formed between the second metal plate 12 and the zigzag metal plate 13A. In the first embodiment, the zigzag metal plate 13A does not have a third through hole communicating the first flow path R1 and the second flow path R2. The first flow path R1 and the second flow path R2 are independent of each other.

[0055] (1.1.4) First brazing layer The material of the first brazing material layer 14 is not particularly limited as long as it can braze the multiple peaks M13 of the zigzag metal plate 13A to the first metal plate 11, and may be a known brazing material. The thickness of the first brazing material layer 14 may be, for example, 10% of the total thickness of the first metal plate 11 and the first brazing material layer 14.

[0056] (1.1.5) Second brazing layer The material of the second brazing material layer 15 is not particularly limited as long as it can braze the multiple valley portions V13 of the zigzag metal plate 13A to the second metal plate 12, and may be a known brazing material. The thickness of the second brazing material layer 15 may be, for example, 10% of the total thickness of the second metal plate 12 and the second brazing material layer 15.

[0057] (1.1.6) Operation In the heat exchanger 1A, when a cooling medium is supplied to one of the two first through holes TH1, the cooling medium flows through the first flow path R1 and is discharged from the other of the two first through holes TH1. When a cooling medium is supplied to one of the two second through holes TH2, the cooling medium flows through the second flow path R2 and is discharged from the other of the two first through holes TH2. By circulating the cooling medium inside the heat exchanger 1A in this manner, the heat exchanger 1A can cool heat exchange objects that are in thermal contact with each of the main surface TS11 of the first metal plate 11 and the main surface TS12 of the second metal plate 12.

[0058] (1.2) Heat exchanger manufacturing method The method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to the first embodiment includes a preparation step, a first release agent application step, a second release agent application step, a lamination step, a bonding step, and a press-fitting step. The order in which the first release agent application step and the second release agent application step are performed is not particularly limited as long as they are performed after the preparation step and before the lamination step. The lamination step, the bonding step, and the press-fitting step are performed in this order after the first release agent application step and the second release agent application step.

[0059] Hereinafter, the first metal plate 11 and the first brazing material layer 14 will also be collectively referred to as the "first brazing sheet 110." Hereinafter, the second metal plate 12 and the second brazing material layer 15 will also be collectively referred to as the "second brazing sheet 120."

[0060] (1.2.1) Preparation process The preparation step prepares the first brazing sheet 110 and the second brazing sheet 120. The method for preparing the first brazing sheet 110 and the second brazing sheet 120 is not particularly limited, and any known method may be used.

[0061] (1.2.2) First release agent application process In the first release agent application process, as shown in FIG. 4, the first release agent is applied to the region RE1 of the main surface S14 of the first solder layer 14 of the first brazing sheet 110, excluding the region RM13 where the multiple ridges M13 are joined, to produce the first brazing sheet 1100 with the release agent.

[0062] The first brazing sheet 1100 with release agent has a first brazing sheet 110 and a first release agent coating layer 16. The region RM13 includes a region RM13A where a plurality of linear ridges M13A are joined, and a region RM13B where a frame-shaped ridge M13B is joined.

[0063] The method for applying the first release agent is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include a first application method, etc. In the first application method, masking tape is applied only to the region RM13A where the multiple ridges M13 of the first brazing material layer 14 are joined, and the first release agent is applied to the region of the first brazing material layer 14 where the masking tape is not applied (i.e., the region RE1), and the masking tape is peeled off from the first brazing material layer 14. The material of the first release agent is not particularly limited as long as it prevents brazing between the first brazing material layer 14 and the third metal plate, and may be a known release agent (e.g., boron nitride).

[0064] (1.2.3) Second release agent application process In the second release agent application process, as shown in FIG. 5, the second release agent is applied to the area RE2 of the main surface S15 of the second solder layer 15, excluding the area RV13 where multiple valley portions V13 are joined, to produce a second brazing sheet 1200 with release agent.

[0065] The second brazing sheet 1200 with a release agent has a second brazing sheet 120 and a second release agent coating layer 17. The region RV13 includes a region RV13A where a plurality of linear valley portions V13A are joined, and a region RV13B where a frame-shaped valley portion V13B is joined.

[0066] The method for applying the second release agent is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include the second application method. In the second application method, masking tape is applied only to the region RV13A where the multiple valleys V13 of the second brazing material layer 15 are joined, and the second release agent is applied to the region of the second brazing material layer 15 where the masking tape is not applied (i.e., region RE2), and the masking tape is then peeled off from the second brazing material layer 15. The material of the second release agent is not particularly limited as long as it prevents brazing between the second brazing material layer 15 and the third metal plate, and may be any known release agent. The second release agent may be the same as or different from the first release agent.

[0067] (1.2.4) Lamination process In the lamination step, the release agent-attached first brazing sheet 1100, the third metal plate, and the second brazing sheet 1200 are laminated so that the first metal plate 11, the first brazing layer 14, the third metal plate, the second brazing layer 15, and the second metal plate 12 are laminated in this order to produce a laminate. The lamination method is not particularly limited and may be any known method. The size of the third metal plate may be the same as or different from the size of the first metal plate 11 or the second metal plate 12.

[0068] (1.2.5) Bonding process In the joining process, the laminate is heated to join the first metal plate 11 and the third metal plate, and also to join the second metal plate 12 and the third metal plate. More specifically, in the first embodiment, the first metal plate 11 and the third metal plate are brazed in the region RM13B where the coating layer 16 of the first release agent is not formed. The first metal plate 11 and the third metal plate are not brazed in the region RE1 where the coating layer 16 of the first release agent is formed. The second metal plate 12 and the third metal plate are brazed in the region RV13B where the coating layer 17 of the second release agent is not formed. The second metal plate 12 and the third metal plate are not brazed in the region RE2 where the coating layer 17 of the second release agent is formed. The method of heating the laminate is not particularly limited and may be any known method.

[0069] (1.2.6) Press-fit process In the press-fitting process, a fluid is pressurized into each of the first through holes TH1 and the second through holes TH2 of the laminate to expand the third metal plate. The third metal plate is expanded by the fluid because the third metal plate and the zigzag metal plate 13A are more easily deformed than the first metal plate 11 and the second metal plate 12, respectively. After the press-fitting process, the first metal plate 11 and the second metal plate 12 tend to maintain their shapes before the press-fitting process. The press-fitting process forms the first flow path R1 and the second flow path R2. The fluid is not particularly limited as long as it expands the third metal plate, and examples thereof include gas and liquid. The fluid may be a cooling medium. Examples of cooling mediums include cooling liquids and cooling gases. The cooling liquid is not particularly limited as long as it is a liquid commonly used for cooling, and examples include water, oil, glycol-based aqueous solutions, air conditioner refrigerants, non-conductive liquids, and phase-change liquids. Examples of cooling gases include air and nitrogen gas. The temperature of the cooling medium is adjusted as appropriate depending on the type of heat exchange object, etc. The fluid is preferably a gas from the viewpoint of cleaning the first flow path R1 and the second flow path R2 after the pressurizing step is performed. The method of pressurizing the fluid is appropriately selected depending on the type of fluid, etc., and may be any known method.

[0070] (1.3) Power storage device pack 6, the power storage device pack 20 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure includes a power storage device 30 and a lower case 60. The lower case 60 houses the power storage device 30 therein.

[0071] (1.3.1) Energy storage device The power storage device pack 20 includes a power storage device 30 .

[0072] The power storage device 30 is used as a battery for various vehicles such as forklifts, hybrid vehicles, and electric vehicles. As shown in Fig. 6, the power storage device 30 includes a module stack 31 and a restraining member 32. The restraining member 32 applies a restraining load to the module stack 31 in the stacking direction of the module stack 31.

[0073] The module stack 31 includes a plurality of stacked power storage modules 33 and a plurality of heat exchangers 1A. The power storage modules 33 are, for example, bipolar batteries. The power storage modules 33 are, for example, secondary batteries such as nickel-metal hydride secondary batteries and lithium-ion secondary batteries. The module stack 31 has a rectangular shape when viewed in the stacking direction (i.e., the Z direction).

[0074] The power storage modules 33 adjacent to each other in the stacking direction are electrically connected via a heat exchanger 1A. The heat exchangers 1A are respectively arranged between the power storage modules 33 adjacent to each other in the stacking direction and on the outside of the power storage modules 33 located at the stacking ends. A positive electrode terminal 34 is connected to one of the heat exchangers 1A arranged on the outside of the power storage module 33 located at the stacking end. A negative electrode terminal 35 is connected to the other heat exchanger 1A arranged on the outside of the power storage module 33 located at the stacking end. The positive electrode terminal 34 and the negative electrode terminal 35 are drawn out, for example, from the edge of the heat exchanger 1A in a direction intersecting the stacking direction. The positive electrode terminal 34 and the negative electrode terminal 35 enable charging and discharging of the power storage device 30.

[0075] The heat exchanger 1A functions as a connecting member that electrically connects the power storage modules 33 to each other, and also functions as a heat sink that dissipates heat generated in the power storage modules 33.

[0076] The restraining member 32 has a pair of end plates 36 that sandwich the module stack 31 in the stacking direction, and fastening bolts 37 and nuts 38 that fasten the end plates 36 together. An electrically insulating film F is provided on the surface of the end plate 36 facing the module stack 31. The film F electrically insulates the end plate 36 from the heat exchanger 1A.

[0077] (1.3.1.1) Energy storage module 7, the electricity storage module 33 includes an electrode stack 41 and a resin sealing body 42 that seals the electrode stack 41. The electricity storage module 33 is formed in the shape of, for example, a rectangular parallelepiped.

[0078] The electrode stack 41 includes a plurality of electrodes stacked in the stacking direction with separators 43 interposed therebetween, and current collectors (metal plates 50A, 50B) located at the stacking ends of the electrode stack 41. The plurality of electrodes includes a negative terminal electrode 48, a positive terminal electrode 49, and a plurality of bipolar electrodes 44 stacked between the negative terminal electrode 48 and the positive terminal electrode 49. The stack of the plurality of bipolar electrodes 44 is provided between the negative terminal electrode 48 and the positive terminal electrode 49.

[0079] The bipolar electrode 44 has a metal plate 45 as a current collector, a positive electrode 46, and a negative electrode 47. The metal plate 45 has a first surface 45a and a second surface 45b provided on the opposite side of the first surface 45a. The positive electrode 46 is provided on the first surface 45a. The negative electrode 47 is provided on the second surface 45b. The positive electrode 46 is a positive electrode active material layer formed by coating the metal plate 45 with a positive electrode active material. The negative electrode 47 is a negative electrode active material layer formed by coating the metal plate 45 with a negative electrode active material. In the electrode stack 41, the positive electrode 46 of one bipolar electrode 44 faces the negative electrode 47 of another bipolar electrode 44 adjacent to it on one side in the stacking direction, with the separator 43 sandwiched between them. In the electrode stack 41, the negative electrode 47 of one bipolar electrode 44 faces the positive electrode 46 of another bipolar electrode 44 adjacent to it on the other side in the stacking direction, with the separator 43 sandwiched therebetween.

[0080] The negative terminal electrode 48 has a metal plate 45 and a negative electrode 47 provided on a second surface 45b of the metal plate 45. The negative terminal electrode 48 is arranged on one end side in the stacking direction so that the second surface 45b faces the center of the electrode stack 41 in the stacking direction. A metal plate 40A is further stacked on the first surface 45a of the metal plate 45 of the negative terminal electrode 48, and is electrically connected to one of the heat exchangers 1A adjacent to the power storage module 33 via this metal plate 40A. The negative electrode 47 provided on the second surface 45b of the metal plate 45 of the negative terminal electrode 48 faces the positive electrode 46 of the bipolar electrode 44 at one end in the stacking direction, via the separator 43.

[0081] The positive terminal electrode 49 has a metal plate 45 and a positive electrode 46 provided on a first surface 45a of the metal plate 45. The positive terminal electrode 49 is arranged on the other end side in the stacking direction so that the first surface 45a faces the center of the electrode stack 41 in the stacking direction. A metal plate 40B is further stacked on a second surface 45b of the metal plate 45 of the positive terminal electrode 49, and is electrically connected to the other heat exchanger 1A adjacent to the power storage module 33 via this metal plate 40B. The positive electrode 46 provided on the first surface 45a of the metal plate 45 of the positive terminal electrode 49 faces the negative electrode 47 of the bipolar electrode 44 at the other end in the stacking direction, via the separator 43.

[0082] The material of the metal plate 45 is a metal (for example, Al, SUS, Ni, Cu, etc.). Each metal plate 45 is one of the metal plates included in the electrode stack 41. Examples of the positive electrode active material that constitutes the positive electrode 46 include oxide active materials. Examples of oxide active materials include LiCoO2, LiMnO2, LiNiO2, LiVO2, and LiNi 1 / 3 Co 1 / 3 Mn 1 / 3 O2, etc., rock salt layered active materials, LiMn2O4, Li(Ni 0.5 Mn 1.5Examples of the negative electrode active material constituting the negative electrode 47 include a spinel-type active material such as LiFePO4, LiMnPO4, LiNiPO4, and LiCuPO4, and an olivine-type active material such as LiFePO4, LiMnPO4, LiNiPO4, and LiCuPO4. Examples of the negative electrode active material constituting the negative electrode 47 include a carbon active material, an oxide active material, and a metal active material. The electrode stack 41 has a plurality of stacked metal plates 45, 50A, and 50B.

[0083] The separator 43 is a member for preventing short circuits between the metal plates 45. The separator 43 is, for example, a sheet-like material. Examples of the separator 43 include a porous film made of a polyolefin resin such as polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP), and a woven or nonwoven fabric made of polypropylene, methyl cellulose, or the like. The separator 43 may be reinforced with a vinylidene fluoride resin compound. The separator 43 is not limited to a sheet-like shape, and a bag-like shape may also be used.

[0084] The metal plates 50A, 50B are substantially the same member as the metal plate 45. The material of the metal plates 50A, 50B is a metal (e.g., Al, SUS, Ni, Cu, etc.). Both the metal plates 50A, 50B are one of the metal plates included in the electrode stack 41. The metal plates 50A, 50B form uncoated electrodes in which neither the first surface 50a nor the second surface 50b is coated with a positive electrode active material layer nor a negative electrode active material layer. In other words, the metal plates 50A, 50B are uncoated electrodes in which no active material layers are provided on both surfaces.

[0085] The metal plate 50A positions the negative terminal electrode 48 between the metal plate 50A and the bipolar electrode 44 in the stacking direction. The second surface 50b of the metal plate 50A and the first surface 45a of the metal plate 45 of the negative terminal electrode 48 are electrically connected by direct contact without any intervening material. The metal plate 50B positions the positive terminal electrode 49 between the metal plate 50B and the bipolar electrode 44 in the stacking direction. The first surface 50a of the metal plate 50B and the second surface 45b of the metal plate 45 of the positive terminal electrode 49 are electrically connected by direct contact without any intervening material.

[0086] In the electrode stack 41, the central region of the electrode stack 41 (the region where the active material layers are arranged in the bipolar electrode 44, the negative terminal electrode 48, and the positive terminal electrode 49) bulges out in the stacking direction compared to the surrounding regions. As a result, the metal plates 50A, 50B bend in directions in which the central regions of the metal plates 50A, 50B move away from each other.

[0087] The electrode stack 41 has electrode exposed portions 50d that are exposed from the sealing body 42 at one end and the other end in the stacking direction (Z-axis direction). The electrode exposed portions 50d are formed by the central regions of the negative terminal electrode 48 and the positive terminal electrode 49 that are exposed from the sealing body 42. Between adjacent power storage modules 33 in the stacking direction, a heat exchanger 1A is disposed in contact with the opposing electrode exposed portions 50d.

[0088] The sealing body 42 is made of, for example, insulating resin and has a rectangular cylindrical shape as a whole. The sealing body 42 is provided so as to surround the side surface 41a of the electrode stack 41. The sealing body 42 seals the internal space V provided within the electrode stack 41.

[0089] The sealing body 42 has a plurality of frame-shaped first sealing portions 51 (resin portions) and a second sealing portion 52. The first sealing portions 51 are provided on the edge portions of the metal plates included in the electrode stack 41 (i.e., the edge portion 45c of the metal plate 45 and the edge portions 50c of the metal plates 50A and 50B). The second sealing portions 52 surround the frame-shaped first sealing portions 51 (resin portions) from the outside along the side surface 41a and are bonded to each of the first sealing portions 51. The first sealing portions 51 and the second sealing portions 52 are made of, for example, an insulating resin, and examples of the resin material include polypropylene (PP), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), and modified polyphenylene ether (modified PPE).

[0090] The first sealing portion 51 is provided continuously around the entire periphery of the edge portion 45c of the metal plate 45 and the edge portions 50c of the metal plates 50A and 50B, and forms a rectangular frame shape when viewed from the stacking direction. The first sealing portion 51 and the metal plate 45, and the first sealing portion 51 and the metal plates 50A and 50B are hermetically bonded, respectively. When viewed from the stacking direction, the first sealing portion 51 extends outward beyond the edge portion 45c of the metal plate 45 or the edge portions 50c of the metal plates 50A and 50B. The first sealing portion 51 includes an outer portion 51a that protrudes outward beyond the edge of the metal plate 45 or the metal plates 50A and 50B, and an inner portion 51b that is located inside the edge of the metal plate 45 or the metal plates 50A and 50B. A welding layer 53 is formed on the tip (outer edge) of the outer portion 51a of the first sealing portion 51.

[0091] The multiple first sealing portions 51 include multiple first sealing portions 51A provided on the bipolar electrode 44 and the positive terminal electrode 49, a first sealing portion 51B provided on the negative terminal electrode 48, a first sealing portion 51C provided on the metal plate 50A, and first sealing portions 51D and 51E provided on the metal plate 50B.

[0092] The first sealing portion 51A is joined to the first surfaces 45a of the metal plates 45 of the bipolar electrode 44 and the positive terminal electrode 49. The inner portions 51b of the first sealing portion 51A are located between the edge portions 45c of the metal plates 45 adjacent to each other in the stacking direction. The area where the edge portions 45c on the first surfaces 45a of the metal plates 45 overlap with the first sealing portion 51A is the bonding area between the metal plate 45 and the first sealing portion 51A.

[0093] In this embodiment, the first sealing portion 51A has a two-layer structure formed by folding one film in two. The outer edge of the first sealing portion 51A embedded in the second sealing portion 52 is the folded portion (bent portion) of the film. The first layer of film constituting the first sealing portion 51A is bonded to the first surface 45a. The inner edge of the second layer of film is located outside the inner edge of the first layer of film, forming a step portion on which the separator 43 is placed. The inner edge of the second layer of film is located inside the edge of the metal plate 45.

[0094] The first sealing portion 51B is bonded to the first surface 45a of the metal plate 45 of the negative terminal electrode 48. The inner portion 51b of the first sealing portion 51B is located between the edge portion 45c of the metal plate 45 of the negative terminal electrode 48 and the edge portion 50c of the metal plate 50A, which are adjacent to each other in the stacking direction. The area where the edge portion 45c on the first surface 45a of the metal plate 45 and the inner portion 51b of the first sealing portion 51B overlap is the bonding area between the metal plate 45 and the first sealing portion 51B. The first sealing portion 51B is also bonded to the second surface 50b of the metal plate 50A. The area where the edge portion 50c on the second surface 50b of the metal plate 50A and the first sealing portion 51B overlap is the bonding area between the metal plate 50A and the first sealing portion 51B. The first sealing portion 51B is also joined to an edge portion 50c on the second surface 50b of the metal plate 50A.

[0095] The first sealing portion 51C is joined to the first surface 50a (outer surface) of the metal plate 50A. The area where the edge portion 50c on the first surface 50a of the metal plate 50A and the first sealing portion 51C overlap is the bonding area between the metal plate 50A and the first sealing portion 51C. The first surface 50a of the metal plate 50A has an electrode exposed portion 50d (hereinafter also referred to as the "exposed surface 50d") exposed from the first sealing portion 51C. The heat exchanger 1A is arranged in contact with the exposed surface 50d.

[0096] The outer edges of the first sealing portions 51B and 51C embedded in the second sealing portion 52 are continuous. That is, the first sealing portions 51B and 51C are formed by folding a single film in two across the edge portion 50c of the metal plate 50A. The outer edges of the first sealing portions 51B and 51C are folded back portions of the film. The film constituting the first sealing portions 51B and 51C is joined to the edge portion 50c on both the first surface 50a and the second surface 50b of the metal plate 50A.

[0097] The first sealing portion 51D is joined to the first surface 50a of the metal plate 50B. An inner portion 51b of the first sealing portion 51D is located between an edge portion 45c of the metal plate 45 of the positive terminal electrode 49 adjacent to each other in the stacking direction and an edge portion 50c of the metal plate 50B. The region where the edge portion 50c on the first surface 50a of the metal plate 50B overlaps with the first sealing portion 51D is the bonding region between the metal plate 50B and the first sealing portion 51D.

[0098] The first sealing portion 51E is disposed on an edge portion 50c of the second surface 50b (outer surface) of the metal plate 50B. The first sealing portion 51E is not joined to the metal plate 50B. The second surface 50b of the metal plate 50B has an exposed surface 50d that is exposed from the first sealing portion 51E. The conductive plate 5 is disposed in contact with the exposed surface 50d.

[0099] The outer edges of the first sealing portions 51D and 51E embedded in the second sealing portion 52 are continuous. That is, the first sealing portions 51D and 51E are formed by folding a single film in two with the edge portion 50c of the metal plate 50B sandwiched between them. The outer edges of the first sealing portions 51D and 51E are folded back portions of the film. The film constituting the first sealing portions 51D and 51E is joined to the edge portion 50c on the first surface 50a of the metal plate 50B.

[0100] A plurality of internal spaces V are provided within the electrode stack 41. Each internal space V is provided between adjacent metal plates. The internal spaces V are spaces between adjacent metal plates in the stacking direction, partitioned airtight and liquidtight by the metal plates and the sealing body 42. This internal space V contains, for example, an electrolyte solution (not shown). The electrolyte solution contains, for example, a non-aqueous solvent and a supporting salt. Examples of the non-aqueous solvent include organic solvents such as carbonates, ethers, esters, nitriles, sulfones, and lactones. Examples of the supporting salt include lithium salts such as LiPF6. The electrolyte solution is impregnated into the separator 43, the positive electrode 46, and the negative electrode 47.

[0101] (1.3.2) Lower case The electricity storage device pack 20 includes a lower case 60. The lower case 60 houses the electricity storage device 30. The shape of the lower case 60 is not particularly limited as long as it can house the electricity storage module 33, and may be any known shape. The material of the lower case 60 may be metal or resin. The electricity storage device pack 20 may be fixed to the lower case 60. The method of fixing the electricity storage device pack 20 is appropriately selected depending on the material of the lower case 60, etc., and examples include methods using fastening parts, welding, hooking, and welding. Examples of fastening parts include bolts, nuts, screws, rivets, and pins. Examples of welding include metal welding and brazing.

[0102] (1.3.3) Cooling device The power storage device pack 20 may include a cooling device (not shown) that supplies a cooling medium to the heat exchanger 1 A. The cooling device may be a known device.

[0103] (1.3.4) Upper Case The power storage device pack 20 may include an upper case (not shown) that covers the power storage device 30. The shape of the upper case is not particularly limited as long as it is a shape that covers the power storage device 30, and may be any known shape. The material of the upper case may be metal or resin. The upper case is fixed to the lower case 60. The method for fixing the upper case is not particularly limited, and may be the same as the method exemplified as the method for fixing the power storage device pack 20.

[0104] (1.4) Action and effect As described with reference to Figures 1 to 7, the method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to the first embodiment is a method for manufacturing a heat exchanger 1A. The heat exchanger 1A includes a first metal plate 11, a second metal plate 12, and a zigzag metal plate 13A. The third metal plate is more easily deformed than either the first metal plate 11 or the second metal plate 12. The method for manufacturing a heat exchanger includes a stacking step and a joining step. As a result, when a fluid is pressed into each of the first through holes TH1 and the second through holes TH2 of the laminate plate, the portions of the third metal plate that constitute each of the first flow path R1 and the second flow path R2 are selectively expanded. At this time, each of the first metal plate 11 and the second metal plate 12 is less likely to deform. The manufacturing method for the heat exchanger of the first embodiment can manufacture a heat exchanger 1A having flat main surfaces TS11 and TS12. Furthermore, the method for manufacturing the heat exchanger of the first embodiment can manufacture a heat exchanger having flat main surfaces TS11 and TS12 at lower cost than when a die for the zigzag metal plate 13A is used.

[0105] As described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 7, the method for manufacturing the heat exchanger of the first embodiment includes a press-fitting step. As a result, a first flow path R1 is formed between the first metal plate 11 and the zigzag metal plate 13A, and a second flow path R2 is formed between the second metal plate 12 and the zigzag metal plate 13A. As a result, the method for manufacturing a heat exchanger of the first embodiment can manufacture a heat exchanger 1A having flat main surfaces TS11 and TS12.

[0106] 1 to 7, in the first embodiment, the zigzag metal plate 13A does not have a third through hole that connects the first flow path R1 and the second flow path R2. The multiple peaks M13 include multiple linear peaks M13A (an example of first peaks). The multiple valleys V13 include multiple linear valleys V13A (an example of first valleys). As a result, the first flow path R1 and the second flow path R2 are independent. When a fluid is injected through the first through hole TH1 of the laminate, the distribution of the magnitude of the pressure applied to the first metal plate 11 is more likely to be uniform than when the multiple peaks M13 do not include multiple linear peaks M13A formed at the first interval L6. When a fluid is injected through the second through hole TH2 of the laminate, the distribution of the magnitude of the pressure applied to the second metal plate 12 is more likely to be uniform than when the multiple valleys V13 do not include multiple linear valleys V13A formed at the second interval L7. As a result, the manufacturing method for a heat exchanger of the first embodiment can manufacture a heat exchanger 1A having flat main surfaces TS11 and TS12.

[0107] 1 to 7, in the first embodiment, the linear peaks M13A and linear valleys V13A extend along the Y-axis direction (an example of the second direction). The linear peaks M13A and linear valleys V13A are alternately formed along the X-axis direction (an example of the first direction). As a result, when a fluid is pressurized into the first through hole TH1 of the laminate plate, the distribution of the pressure magnitude applied to the first metal plate 11 tends to become more uniform. When a fluid is pressurized into the second through hole TH2 of the laminate plate, the pressure applied to the second metal plate 12 tends to become more uniform. As a result, the method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to the first embodiment can manufacture a heat exchanger 1A having flat main surfaces TS11 and TS12.

[0108] 1 to 7, in the first embodiment, the first metal plate 11 and the second metal plate 12 each contain a 6000 series aluminum alloy, and the third metal plate contains a 1000 series aluminum. That is, the third metal plate is more easily deformed than each of the first metal plate 11 and the second metal plate 12. As a result, the method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to the first embodiment can manufacture a heat exchanger 1A having flat main surfaces TS11 and TS12.

[0109] 1 to 7, in the first embodiment, the thickness of each of the first metal plate 11 and the second metal plate 12 is 1.00 mm or more. The thickness of the third metal plate is less than 1.00 mm. That is, the third metal plate is more easily deformed than each of the first metal plate 11 and the second metal plate 12. As a result, the method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to the first embodiment can manufacture a heat exchanger 1A having flat main surfaces TS11 and TS12.

[0110] As described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 7, the method for manufacturing the heat exchanger of the first embodiment further includes a preparation step, a first release agent application step, and a second release agent application step. As a result, the first metal plate 11 and the plurality of peaks M13 are joined by brazing. The second metal plate 12 and the plurality of valleys V13 are joined by brazing. As a result, the method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to the first embodiment can manufacture the heat exchanger 1A more easily than when the joining method is not brazing.

[0111] As described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 7 , the heat exchanger 1A of the first embodiment includes a first metal plate 11, a second metal plate 12, and a zigzag metal plate 13A. The zigzag metal plate 13A has a plurality of peaks M13 joined to the first metal plate 11 and a plurality of valleys V13 joined to the second metal plate 12. A first flow path R1 is formed between the first metal plate 11 and the zigzag metal plate 13A, and a second flow path R2 is formed between the second metal plate 12 and the zigzag metal plate 13A. The zigzag metal plate 13A is more easily deformed than either the first metal plate 11 or the second metal plate 12. The heat exchanger 1A is suitably manufactured by the heat exchanger manufacturing method of the first embodiment. Therefore, the main surfaces TS11 and TS12 of the ninth heat exchanger are flat. As a result, the heat exchanger 1A can efficiently cool the power storage module 33.

[0112] As described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 7, in the heat exchanger 1A of the first embodiment, the main surface TS11 of the first metal plate 11 and the main surface TS12 of the second metal plate are each flat. This makes it easier for each of the main surface TS11 of the first metal plate 11 and the main surface TS12 of the second metal plate 12 to come into direct contact with the electricity storage module 33 than when each of the main surface TS11 of the first metal plate 11 and the main surface TS12 of the second metal plate 12 is not planar. As a result, the heat exchanger 1A can cool the electricity storage module 33 more efficiently.

[0113] As described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 7, in the first embodiment, the thickness of the heat exchanger 1A is 10 mm or less. This makes the heat exchanger 1A suitable for use as a cooler for cooling the power storage module 33 included in the power storage device 30.

[0114] 1 to 7, the energy storage device 30 of the first embodiment includes a plurality of energy storage modules 33 and a plurality of heat exchangers 1A. Between the energy storage modules 33 adjacent to each other in the stacking direction, the heat exchanger 1A is disposed in contact with the electrode exposed portions 50d facing each other. The main surfaces TS11 and TS12 of the heat exchanger 1A are flat. Therefore, the contact area between the electrode exposed portion 50d and the heat exchanger 1A is larger than when the main surfaces TS11 and TS12 of the heat exchanger 1A are not flat. As a result, the power storage device 30 can efficiently cool the power storage modules 33.

[0115] As described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 7, the electricity storage device pack 20 of the first embodiment includes the electricity storage device 30 and the lower case 60. This allows the power storage device pack 20 to efficiently cool the power storage modules 33.

[0116] (2) Second embodiment The method for manufacturing the heat exchanger of the second embodiment of the present disclosure is mainly similar to the method for manufacturing the heat exchanger of the first embodiment, except that the zigzag metal plate has through holes.

[0117] The method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to the second embodiment is a method for manufacturing a heat exchanger 1B.

[0118] 8, the heat exchanger 1B includes a first metal plate 11, a second metal plate 12, a zigzag metal plate 13B, a first brazing material layer 14 (see FIG. 2), and a second brazing material layer 15 (see FIG. 2). The configuration of the zigzag metal plate 13B is similar to the configuration of the zigzag metal plate 13A, except that it has a third through hole TH3 that connects the first flow path R1 and the second flow path R2.

[0119] As described with reference to Fig. 8, in the second embodiment, the zigzag metal plate 13B further has a plurality of third through holes TH3 that connect the first flow path R1 and the second flow path R2. The plurality of peaks M13 include a plurality of linear peaks M13A (an example of a first peak). The plurality of valleys V13 include a plurality of linear valleys V13A (an example of a first valley). The first distance L6 and the second distance L7 are equal.

[0120] As a result, when a fluid is pressed into the first through hole TH1 and the second through hole TH2 of the laminate plate, the distribution of the magnitude of the pressure applied to each of the first metal plate 11 and the second metal plate 12 is more likely to be uniform than when the first distance L6 and the second distance L7 are not equal. As a result, the method for manufacturing a heat exchanger of the second embodiment can manufacture a heat exchanger 1B having flatter main surfaces TS11 and TS12.

[0121] (3) Variations The methods for manufacturing the heat exchangers of the first and second embodiments include a preparation step, a first release agent application step, a second release agent application step, a lamination step, a bonding step, and a press-fitting step. However, the method for manufacturing a heat exchanger of the present disclosure does not have to include at least one of the preparation step, the first release agent application step, the second release agent application step, and the press-fitting step, as long as it includes the lamination step and the bonding step.

[0122] In the first embodiment, the multiple peaks M13 include multiple linear peaks M13A, and the multiple valleys V13 include multiple linear valleys V13A, but in the manufacturing method of the heat exchanger disclosed herein, the multiple peaks M13 may not include multiple linear peaks M13A, and the multiple valleys V13 may not include multiple linear valleys V13A.

[0123] In the first embodiment, the first distance L6 and the second distance L7 are equal, but the first distance L6 and the second distance L7 may be different. In the first embodiment, the first flow path R1 and the second flow path R2 are independent. Therefore, even if the first distance L6 and the second distance L7 are different, the manufacturing method of the heat exchanger of the first embodiment can manufacture a heat exchanger having flat main surfaces TS11 and TS12.

[0124] In the first and second embodiments, each of the linear peaks M13A (an example of a first peak) and the linear valleys V13A (an example of a first valley) extends along the Y-axis direction, but in the present disclosure, each of the linear peaks M13A and the linear valleys V13A does not have to extend along the Y-axis direction. For example, the first peaks and the second valleys may be curved in the positive direction of the Y-axis.

[0125] In the first and second embodiments, the first metal plate 11 and the second metal plate 12 each contain a 6000 series aluminum alloy, and the third metal plate contains 1000 series aluminum, but in the present disclosure, the first metal plate 11 and the second metal plate 12 each do not have to contain a 6000 series aluminum alloy, and the third metal plate does not have to contain 1000 series aluminum. The material of each of the first metal plate 11, the second metal plate 12, and the third metal plate is appropriately selected depending on the thickness of each of the first metal plate 11, the second metal plate 12, and the third metal plate, and may be any metal.

[0126] In the first and second embodiments, the thickness of each of the first metal plate 11 and the second metal plate 12 is 1.00 mm or more, and the thickness of the third metal plate is less than 1.00 mm, but in the present disclosure, the thickness of each of the first metal plate 11 and the second metal plate 12 may be less than 1.00 mm, and the thickness of the third metal plate may be 1.00 mm or more. The thickness of each of the first metal plate 11, the second metal plate 12, and the third metal plate is selected appropriately depending on the material of each of the first metal plate 11, the second metal plate 12, and the third metal plate, etc.

[0127] When the manufacturing method for a heat exchanger according to the present disclosure is an embodiment (hereinafter referred to as "first case") that does not include the preparation step, the first release agent application step, and the second release agent application step, the plurality of peaks of the zigzag metal plate may be joined to the first metal plate by a joining method other than brazing, and the plurality of valleys of the zigzag metal plate may be joined to the second metal plate by a joining method other than brazing. Joining methods other than brazing are appropriately selected depending on the materials of the first metal plate, the second metal plate, and the third metal plate, and examples thereof include welding (e.g., laser welding), welding (e.g., friction stir welding (FSW), friction stir spot welding (FSSW)), and the like. When the manufacturing method for a heat exchanger according to the present disclosure is the first case, each of the heat exchanger 1A and the heat exchanger 1B may not include the first brazing material layer 14 and the second brazing material layer 15. When the manufacturing method of the heat exchanger disclosed herein is the first case, joining the first metal body and the third metal plate in the region corresponding to the peak portion of the laminate plate and joining the second metal body and the third metal plate in the region corresponding to the valley portion of the laminate plate may be performed separately rather than simultaneously.

[0128] In the heat exchanger 1A and the heat exchanger 1B, the principal surfaces TS11 and TS12 are planar, but in the present disclosure, the principal surfaces TS11 and TS12 do not have to be planar. For example, the periphery of each of the principal surfaces TS11 and TS12 may have a protruding portion that protrudes in the thickness direction (Z-axis direction) of each of the heat exchanger 1A and the heat exchanger 1B.

[0129] The thickness of each of the heat exchanger 1A and the heat exchanger 1B is 10 mm or less, but in the present disclosure, the thickness of each of the heat exchanger 1A and the heat exchanger 1B may be more than 10 mm.

[0130] In the first and second embodiments, the heat exchange medium is a cooling medium, but in the present disclosure, the heat exchange medium may be a heating medium. When the heat exchange medium is a heating medium, the heat exchangers 1A and 1B can heat a heat exchange object that is in thermal contact with each of the main surfaces TS11 and TS12. Examples of the heating medium include a heating liquid and a heating gas. The heating liquid is not particularly limited as long as it is a liquid commonly used as a heating liquid, and examples include water, oil, a glycol-based aqueous solution, an air conditioner refrigerant, a non-conductive liquid, and a phase-change liquid. Examples of the heating gas include air and water vapor. The temperature of the heating medium is adjusted appropriately depending on the type of the heat exchange object, etc. [Explanation of symbols]

[0131] 1A, 1B: heat exchanger, 11, 12: metal plate, 13A, 13B: zigzag-shaped metal plate 14, 15: brazing material layer, 20: electricity storage device pack, 30: electricity storage device, 60: lower case

Claims

1. 1. A method of manufacturing a heat exchanger, comprising: The heat exchanger comprises a first metal plate having at least one first through hole, a second metal plate having at least one second through hole, and a zigzag metal plate disposed between the first metal plate and the second metal plate and having a flat third metal plate formed in a zigzag shape, the zigzag metal plate has a plurality of peaks joined to the first metal plate and a plurality of valleys joined to the second metal plate, a first flow path communicating with the first through hole is formed between the first metal plate and the zigzag metal plate, and a second flow path communicating with the second through hole is formed between the second metal plate and the zigzag metal plate, the third metal plate is more easily deformed than each of the first metal plate and the second metal plate, stacking the first metal plate, the flat third metal plate, and the second metal plate in this order to produce a laminated plate; joining the first metal plate and the flat third metal plate by brazing in regions corresponding to the peak portions of the laminated plate; Joining the second metal plate and the flat third metal plate by brazing in an area corresponding to the valley portion of the laminated plate; forming the flat third metal plate into the zigzag-shaped metal plate by injecting a fluid into each of the first through hole and the second through hole to expand the flat third metal plate; A method for manufacturing a heat exchanger having the above structure.

2. the zigzag metal plate does not have a third through hole that connects the first flow path and the second flow path, the plurality of ridges include a plurality of first ridges formed at first intervals along a first direction perpendicular to a thickness direction of the heat exchanger, the plurality of valleys include a plurality of first valleys formed at second intervals along the first direction, The method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to claim 1 , wherein the first flow path and the second flow path are not in communication with each other.

3. each of the first peaks and the first valleys extends along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction and a thickness direction of the heat exchanger; The method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to claim 2 , wherein the first peaks and the first valleys are alternately formed along the first direction.

4. each of the first metal plate and the second metal plate includes a 6000 series aluminum alloy; The method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the third metal plate contains 1000 series aluminum.

5. The thickness of each of the first metal plate and the second metal plate is 1.00 mm or more, The method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the third metal plate has a thickness of less than 1.00 mm.

6. the zigzag metal plate further has at least one third through hole communicating the first flow path and the second flow path; the plurality of ridges include a plurality of first ridges formed at first intervals along a first direction perpendicular to a thickness direction of the heat exchanger, the plurality of valleys include a plurality of first valleys formed at second intervals along the first direction, The method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to claim 1 , wherein the first spacing and the second spacing are equal.

7. preparing a first brazing sheet having a first brazing filler metal layer formed on one main surface of the first metal plate for joining the plurality of peaks to the first metal plate, and a second brazing sheet having a second brazing filler metal layer formed on one main surface of the second metal plate for joining the plurality of valleys to the second metal plate; applying a first release agent to a region of the main surface of the first brazing filler metal layer excluding a region where the plurality of ridges are joined, to prepare a first brazing sheet with a release agent; applying a second release agent to a region of the main surface of the second brazing layer excluding a region where the plurality of valley portions are joined, to prepare a second brazing sheet with a release agent; and In producing the laminated plate, the first brazing sheet with a release agent, the third metal plate, and the second brazing sheet are laminated in this order, so as to produce the laminated plate; 3. The method for manufacturing a heat exchanger according to claim 1, wherein, in joining the first metal plate and the third metal plate and joining the second metal plate and the third metal plate, the laminated plate is heated to braze the first metal plate and the third metal plate and braze the second metal plate and the third metal plate.

8. A metal plate having a first metal plate with at least one first through hole, a second metal plate with at least one second through hole, and a third metal plate disposed between the first metal plate and the second metal plate and formed in a zigzag shape, the zigzag metal plate has a plurality of peaks joined to the first metal plate and a plurality of valleys joined to the second metal plate, The cross-sectional shape of the peaks and valleys is V-shaped, a first flow path communicating with the first through hole is formed between the first metal plate and the zigzag metal plate, and a second flow path communicating with the second through hole is formed between the second metal plate and the zigzag metal plate, The heat exchanger, wherein the zigzag metal plate is more deformable than each of the first metal plate and the second metal plate.

9. The heat exchanger according to claim 8 , wherein each of the front main surface of the first metal plate and the front main surface of the second metal plate is flat.

10. 9. The heat exchanger of claim 8, wherein the thickness is 10 mm or less.

11. The zigzag metal plate does not have a third through hole connecting the first flow path and the second flow path, The heat exchanger of claim 8 , wherein the first flow path and the second flow path are not in communication with each other.

12. a plurality of stacked energy storage modules; a plurality of heat exchangers according to any one of claims 8 to 11, which are provided between the power storage modules adjacent to each other in the stacking direction of the power storage modules; Equipped with each of the plurality of power storage modules has an electrode stack including a plurality of electrodes stacked in a stacking direction of the power storage module with separators interposed therebetween, an electrolyte solution accommodated in an internal space formed between adjacent electrodes, and a sealing body that surrounds a side surface of the electrode stack in the stacking direction and seals the internal space; the plurality of electrodes includes a negative terminal electrode, a positive terminal electrode, and a plurality of bipolar electrodes stacked between the negative terminal electrode and the positive terminal electrode; Each of the plurality of bipolar electrodes includes an electrode plate, a positive electrode provided on a first surface of the electrode plate, and a negative electrode provided on a second surface of the electrode plate, the electrode stack has electrode exposed portions exposed from the sealing body at one end and the other end in the stacking direction, The heat exchanger is disposed in contact with the electrode exposed portions facing each other between the adjacent ones of the power storage modules in the stacking direction.

13. An electricity storage device pack comprising: the electricity storage device according to claim 12; and a lower case that houses the electricity storage device.

Images