Insulating ring, battery pack, and method of manufacturing battery pack

Abstract

To achieve an insulation ring used for fixing and insulating a battery pack by suppressing a time and a cost, required for a manufacturing.SOLUTION: An insulation ring 1A includes: a flat plate like continuous part 10 in which a ring part 11 group corresponding to each electrode plane in a parallel cylindrical battery group contained in a battery pack using them is continued; and an extension part 20 that extends to an outer side from a side edge part 12 of the continuous part 10 corresponding to a valley between the adjacent cylindrical batteries. The continuous part 10 is attached to the electrode plane to fix the cylindrical battery group, and the extension part 20 is folded to the valley 30 between the adjacent cylindrical batteries, and thus a side surface of each cylindrical battery is insulated. As mentioned above, by obtaining the insulation ring 1A that can perform a fixing and an insulation of each cylindrical battery group contained in the battery pack in a punching processing using a metal mold, a time and a cost required for the manufacturing can be suppressed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an insulating ring, a battery pack, and a method for manufacturing the battery pack. [Background technology]

[0002] Battery packs containing multiple cylindrical cells arranged in parallel are known. Known techniques for such batteries include securing the multiple cylindrical cells by wrapping adhesive tape around them, and attaching strip-shaped insulating tape or ring-shaped insulators to the cells to prevent contact between the cells and protective elements such as diodes connected to them.

[0003] Another known battery pack technology involves forming a fixed component as an integrally molded resin part, the fixed component having a bottom with a planar shape that encompasses the end faces of multiple cells and a body formed by walls erected around the bottom and with protruding pieces formed in positions that correspond to the recesses between the cells. Other known technologies include press-fitting and fixing multiple cells into the space formed by the bottom and body of the fixed component, and electrically connecting protective elements arranged along the protruding pieces of the fixed component to the cells. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-73326 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In a battery pack containing multiple cylindrical batteries arranged side by side, if the multiple cylindrical batteries are secured by wrapping adhesive tape around them, it becomes difficult to accommodate electronic components such as diodes in the gaps between adjacent cylindrical batteries. Furthermore, if the multiple cylindrical batteries are secured using flat insulating rings with continuous ring sections corresponding to the battery electrode surfaces, it becomes necessary to apply insulating tape or the like to the gaps between adjacent cylindrical batteries in order to accommodate electronic components.

[0006] One possible way to simultaneously secure multiple cylindrical batteries and insulate the gaps between adjacent cylindrical batteries is to use an insulating ring that is a one-piece molded resin product with a bottom that corresponds to the shape of the end faces of the multiple cylindrical batteries, as described above, and a body and protruding pieces that stand around the bottom. However, the time and cost required to create, adjust, and modify the mold for this type of insulating ring can be time-consuming and costly, making it difficult to efficiently and cost-effectively manufacture the insulating rings, and even the assembled batteries that use them.

[0007] In one aspect, the present invention aims to realize an insulating ring used for fixing and insulating a battery pack while reducing the time and cost required for manufacturing it, and in another aspect, to realize a battery pack using such an insulating ring. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In one embodiment, Adjacent to each other with their sides touching The battery pack includes a plurality of cylindrical batteries arranged in parallel, and includes a plurality of flat ring portions corresponding to the electrode surfaces provided on one end face side of the plurality of cylindrical batteries, and the plurality of ring portions so that the ring portions corresponding to adjacent cylindrical batteries in the plurality of cylindrical batteries are continuous with each other, Continuous in the same plane 、 A flat continuous portion and at least one set of the plurality of cylindrical batteries of the flat continuous portion The aforementioned An insulating ring is provided having an extension extending outward from a side edge corresponding to the valley between adjacent cylindrical cells and the continuous portion.

[0009] In one embodiment, a battery pack using the insulating ring as described above is provided. , absolute A method for manufacturing a battery assembly using edge rings is provided. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] In one aspect, it is possible to reduce the time and cost required for manufacturing an insulating ring used to fix and insulate a battery pack, and in another aspect, it is possible to realize a battery pack using such an insulating ring. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 3A to 3C are diagrams illustrating an example of the configuration of an insulating ring according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a diagram (part 1) illustrating an example of how an insulating ring according to the first embodiment is attached to a cylindrical battery group. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram (part 2) illustrating an example of attaching an insulating ring to a cylindrical battery group according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a battery pack according to a first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 5] 5A to 5C are diagrams illustrating another example of the configuration of the insulating ring according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating another example of the configuration of the battery pack according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of the configuration of an insulating ring according to a second embodiment. [Figure 8] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of how an insulating ring according to a second embodiment is attached to a cylindrical battery group. [Figure 9] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating another example of the configuration of the insulating ring according to the second embodiment. [Figure 10] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating another example of how an insulating ring according to the second embodiment is attached to a cylindrical battery group. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] [First embodiment] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an insulating ring according to a first embodiment. FIG. 1(A) is a schematic perspective view of an example of an insulating ring. FIG. 1(B) is a schematic plan view of an example of an insulating ring. FIG. 1(C) is a schematic front view of an example of an insulating ring (viewed from direction V1 in FIG. 1(B)). FIG. 1(D) is a schematic left side view of an example of an insulating ring (viewed from direction V2 in FIG. 1(B)).

[0013] The insulating ring 1A shown in Figures 1(A) to 1(D) is an example of an insulating ring attached to eight cylindrical battery groups in a battery pack that includes eight cylindrical battery groups arranged in a row. Each cylindrical battery included in the battery pack has a positive terminal on one end face and a negative terminal on the other end face. Here, the end face of a cylindrical battery that has a positive terminal is also referred to as the "electrode surface" or "positive electrode surface," and the end face that has a negative terminal is also referred to as the "electrode surface" or "negative electrode surface."

[0014] Various insulating materials can be used for the insulating ring 1A. For example, various insulating resins can be used for the insulating ring 1A. As an example, polycarbonate can be used for the insulating ring 1A. Other materials that can be used for the insulating ring 1A include polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, and polyethylene. Before being attached to the cylindrical battery group, the insulating ring 1A is in a flat plate shape as shown in FIGS. 1(A) to 1(D). The thickness of the flat insulating ring 1A is approximately 0.1 mm to 1 mm, for example, 0.2 mm.

[0015] The insulating ring 1A has a flat continuous portion 10 consisting of a group of eight rings 11 connected together, each corresponding to one end of the eight cylindrical battery groups (positive or negative electrode surfaces). Each ring 11 in the continuous portion 10 has an opening 10a that connects to the electrode surface of the corresponding cylindrical battery. The insulating ring 1A also has a flange-shaped extension 20 that extends outward from a side edge 12 of the flat continuous portion 10 that corresponds to a valley 30 between at least one pair of adjacent cylindrical batteries (four pairs of adjacent cylindrical batteries in this example) among the eight cylindrical battery groups. Before the insulating ring 1A is attached to the cylindrical battery groups, the extension 20 is flat like the continuous portion 10 and is shaped to lie in the same plane as the continuous portion 10. After the insulating ring 1A is attached to the cylindrical battery groups, the extension 20 can be bent into the valley 30 between adjacent cylindrical batteries.

[0016] The extension portion 20 extends, for example, from a side edge 12 of the continuous portion 10 that corresponds to the valley 30 between adjacent cylindrical batteries, in a direction inclined relative to the axis along which the ring portions 11 of the continuous portion 10 are arranged. More specifically, when positioned on the same plane as the flat continuous portion 10, as shown in FIG. 1(B), the extension portion 20 extends from the side edge 12 of the continuous portion 10 in a direction inclined at a predetermined angle θ1 relative to the center line C1 (axis of the continuous portion 10) connecting the centers O1 of the ring portions 11 corresponding to the adjacent cylindrical batteries in a planar view. The angle θ1 of the extension direction of the extension portion 20 is, for example, in the range of 40° to 90°.

[0017] The insulating ring 1A has a bilaterally symmetrical shape, as shown in Fig. 1(B), for example. That is, the continuous portion 10 and the extending portion 20 corresponding to four cylindrical battery groups from one side (e.g., the left side of Fig. 1(B)) of the eight cylindrical battery groups arranged in a row are symmetrical to the continuous portion 10 and the extending portion 20 corresponding to four cylindrical battery groups from the other side (e.g., the right side of Fig. 1(B)).

[0018] The insulating ring 1A is attached to at least one of the electrode surfaces of the cylindrical battery groups arranged side by side, for example, only one of the positive electrode surface side and the negative electrode surface side of the cylindrical battery groups, or both. When insulating rings 1A are attached to both the electrode surfaces of the cylindrical battery groups arranged side by side, insulating rings 1A of the same shape are attached to both the electrode surfaces of the cylindrical battery groups.

[0019] The flat insulating ring 1A having the continuous portion 10 where the group of ring portions 11 are connected and the extension portion 20 that extends outward from the side edge portion 12 at a predetermined position thereof is formed, for example, by punching using a die. As described below, the flat insulating ring 1A thus formed has the continuous portion 10 where the group of ring portions 11 are connected attached to the electrode surface of a group of cylindrical batteries that are arranged side by side, and the extension portion 20 provided corresponding to the valley 30 between adjacent cylindrical batteries is bent into the valley 30 when in use.

[0020] A known technique involves preparing a one-piece resin molded product with a bottom that corresponds to the shape of the end face of a group of cylindrical batteries, and a body and protrusions that stand around the bottom, and attaching this to the end face of the group of cylindrical batteries, thereby achieving a usage pattern similar to that of the insulating ring 1A. However, when forming such a one-piece resin molded product, it can be relatively time-consuming and costly to create, adjust, and modify the mold.

[0021] In contrast, the flat insulating ring 1A described above can be formed by punching using a die. Because the insulating ring 1A is flat and the die used has a relatively simple structure, the time and cost required for die fabrication can be reduced. The flat insulating ring 1A is then attached to the electrode surface of a group of cylindrical batteries at its continuous portion 10 and bent into the valleys 30 between adjacent cylindrical batteries before use. By providing a shape that can be formed by punching using a die and that is usable in this way, the insulating ring 1A used in battery packs can be manufactured efficiently and at low cost. Furthermore, using such insulating ring 1A allows battery packs to be manufactured efficiently and at low cost.

[0022] Next, the attachment of the insulating ring 1A having the above-described configuration to a group of cylindrical batteries will be described. 2 and 3 are diagrams illustrating an example of attachment of an insulating ring to a cylindrical battery group according to the first embodiment. Fig. 2 is a schematic perspective view of an example of a state in which a flat insulating ring is attached to a cylindrical battery group. Fig. 3 is a schematic perspective view of an example of a state in which the extension portion of the insulating ring attached to the cylindrical battery group is folded.

[0023] The insulating ring 1A is attached to a group of eight cylindrical batteries 41 arranged in a row as shown in FIGS. To do this, first, as shown in FIG. 2, a single flat insulating ring 1A is attached to one end face of the group of cylindrical batteries 41. The insulating ring 1A is attached to one end face of the group of cylindrical batteries 41 so that each ring portion 11 of the continuous portion 10 faces one of the electrode surfaces 41a of the group of cylindrical batteries 41, and a portion of the corresponding electrode surface 41a is exposed through the opening 10a provided in each ring portion 11. The insulating ring 1A is attached to one end face of the group of cylindrical batteries 41 with its continuous portion 10 (group of ring portions 11) attached using, for example, double-sided tape or adhesive. At this stage, the extension portion 20 of the insulating ring 1A extends from the side edge portion 12 of the continuous portion 10 that corresponds to the valley 30 between predetermined adjacent cylindrical batteries 41 in the group of cylindrical batteries 41, in a predetermined direction within the same plane as the continuous portion 10.

[0024] Similarly, another flat insulating ring 1A is attached to the other end face opposite the group of cylindrical batteries 41. The insulating ring 1A is attached to one end face of the group of cylindrical batteries 41 so that each ring portion 11 of the continuous portion 10 faces the electrode surface 41a of each of the cylindrical batteries 41 on the other end face, and a portion of the corresponding electrode surface 41a is exposed through the opening 10a provided in each ring portion 11. The insulating ring 1A is attached to the other end face of the group of cylindrical batteries 41 with its continuous portion 10 (group of ring portions 11) attached using, for example, double-sided tape or adhesive. At this stage, the extension portion 20 of the insulating ring 1A extends from the side edge portion 12 of the continuous portion 10 that corresponds to the valley 30 between predetermined adjacent cylindrical batteries 41 in the group of cylindrical batteries 41, in a predetermined direction within the same plane as the continuous portion 10.

[0025] As shown in Figure 2, two flat insulating rings 1A of the same shape are attached to one end face and the other end face of the group of cylindrical batteries 41. Therefore, the extension portions 20 of the two flat insulating rings 1A extend in the same direction in each of the valleys 30 between adjacent cylindrical batteries 41. By attaching the continuous portions 10 of the two flat insulating rings 1A to the electrode surfaces 41a on one end face and the other end face of the group of cylindrical batteries 41, the group of cylindrical batteries 41 is fixed in a row by the two flat insulating rings 1A, as shown in Figure 2.

[0026] After the two flat insulating rings 1A are attached, as shown in Figure 3, the extensions 20 of each insulating ring 1A are bent toward the valleys 30 between adjacent cylindrical batteries 41 that correspond to the side edges 12 of the continuous section 10 where they are attached. As a result, the insulating ring 1A has its extensions 20 bent at bending positions 21 into the valleys 30 between adjacent cylindrical batteries 41, and extends along the valleys 30. The extensions 20 bent into the valleys 30 are attached to the side of the cylindrical battery 41 in that valley 30 (one of the adjacent cylindrical batteries 41). The extensions 20 may be attached to the side using double-sided tape or the like.

[0027] By using two insulating rings 1A of the same shape attached to one end face and the other end face of the group of cylindrical batteries 41, the extensions 20 of each are bent into the same valleys 30 and are provided on the side of the same cylindrical battery 41 at each valley 30, as shown in Figure 3. The extensions 20 of the two insulating rings 1A attached to one end face and the other end face of the group of cylindrical batteries 41 that are bent into the same valleys 30 may be set to lengths such that, for example, their tips come into contact with each other or overlap when bent.

[0028] Using the method shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, a group of eight cylindrical batteries 41 arranged in a row is fixed using two insulating rings 1A. Connection terminals such as tabs are connected to the electrode surfaces 41a (positive and negative electrode surfaces) of the group of cylindrical batteries 41 fixed using the insulating ring 1A, and electronic components including protective elements such as diodes are connected to the connection terminals to obtain a battery pack.

[0029] Fig. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a battery pack according to the first embodiment, showing a schematic perspective view of an example of a battery pack. As shown in FIG. 4 , a group of eight cylindrical batteries 41 are arranged in a row and secured in place using an insulating ring 1A. A variety of metal materials can be used for the connection terminals 50. The connection terminals 50 are provided with flat connection portions 51 that connect to the electrode surfaces 41a of the cylindrical batteries 41, and lead-out portions 52 that extend from the connection portions 51. The lead-out portions 52 are provided so that they correspond to the extension portions 20 of the insulating ring 1A and extend in the same direction as the extension portions 20 when the connection portions 51 are connected to the portions of the electrode surfaces 41a of the cylindrical batteries 41 exposed through the openings 10a of the insulating ring 1A. Before being connected to the electrode surfaces 41a of the connection terminals 50, the lead-out portions 52 are flat, just like the connection portions 51, and are shaped to be flush with the connection portions 51.

[0030] When connecting the connection terminals 50, first, the connection portions 51 of the flat connection terminals 50 prepared in advance are connected by welding or other methods to the electrode surfaces 41a of the cylindrical batteries 41 exposed through the openings 10a of the insulating ring 1A, as shown in Fig. 4. At this time, the connection terminals 50 are oriented so that the lead-out portions 52 extending from the connection portions 51 extend in the same direction as the extension portions 20 of the insulating ring 1A, and the connection portions 51 are connected to the electrode surfaces 41a by welding or other methods. After the connection portions 51 are connected to the electrode surfaces 41a, the lead-out portions 52 are then bent into the valleys 30 between adjacent cylindrical batteries 41, similar to the extension portions 20, to fit the external shape of the insulating ring 1A with the extension portions 20 bent, as shown in Fig. 4. As a result, the connection terminal 50 has a shape in which the drawn-out portion 52 is drawn out from the connection portion 51, passing over the continuous portion 10 of the insulating ring 1A, and onto the extension portion 20 bent into the valley 30 between adjacent cylindrical batteries 41.

[0031] The connection portions 51 of these flat connection terminals 50 are connected to the electrode surfaces 41a of the cylindrical batteries 41 at both one end and the other end, and the lead portions 52 extending from the connection portions 51 are bent. Then, as shown in Figure 4, electronic components 60 including protection elements such as diodes are connected as safety components to the bent lead portions 52 of the connection terminals 50 connected to one end of the cylindrical batteries 41 and the bent lead portions 52 of the connection terminals 50 connected to the other end. For example, the two axial leads 61 of an axial-type electronic component 60 are connected to the bent lead portions 52 of the connection terminals 50 connected to one end of the cylindrical batteries 41 and the bent lead portions 52 of the connection terminals 50 connected to the other end. The electronic component 60 as a safety component is connected between the electrode surfaces 41a on one end face and the other end face of the cylindrical battery 41, i.e., between the positive and negative electrode surfaces, thereby preventing over-discharge between the positive and negative electrode surfaces.

[0032] In this way, the connection portion 51 of the connection terminal 50 is connected to the electrode surfaces 41a (positive and negative electrode surfaces) of the group of cylindrical batteries 41 fixed using the insulating ring 1A, and the electronic component 60 is connected to the lead-out portion 52 extending from the connection portion 51 and bent into the valley 30, thereby obtaining the assembled battery 40A as shown in Figure 4.

[0033] In this example, a flat connection terminal 50 is connected to the electrode surface 41a of a cylindrical battery 41, its lead-out portion 52 is bent, and the axial lead 61 of the electronic component 60 is connected to the bent lead-out portion 52. Alternatively, a connection terminal 50 with a bent lead-out portion 52 connected to the axial lead 61 of the electronic component 60 can be prepared in advance and then connected to the electrode surface 41a of the cylindrical battery 41.

[0034] Although not shown here, the assembled battery 40A may further be connected with leads, tabs, etc. for electrically connecting different cylindrical batteries 41, and may also be connected with tabs, leads, connectors, etc. for electrically connecting the assembled battery 40A to the outside.

[0035] In the battery pack 40A, the electronic components 60 are housed in the valleys 30 between adjacent cylindrical batteries 41, which prevents the battery pack 40A from increasing in size due to the inclusion of the electronic components 60. In the battery pack 40A, the extensions 20 of the insulating ring 1A are bent into the valleys 30 between adjacent cylindrical batteries 41, and the electronic components 60 are placed on the extensions 20 bent into the valleys 30, ensuring insulation between the side surfaces of the cylindrical batteries 41 and the electronic components 60 by the extensions 20 bent into the valleys 30. Therefore, when placing the electronic components 60 in the valleys 30 between adjacent cylindrical batteries 41, there is no need to insulate the valleys 30 with insulating tape or the like.

[0036] Because the side surfaces of the cylindrical batteries 41 are covered by the exterior body of the battery can, which also serves as one of the positive and negative electrodes, some kind of insulation is required between them to prevent the exterior body from breaking due to heat generated by the axial leads 61 during operation of the electronic component 60, causing the axial leads 61 to come into contact with the battery can of the cylindrical batteries 41 and short-circuit. Conventionally, this insulation has been achieved by applying insulating tape or other similar means. In contrast, with the battery pack 40A, the extensions 20 on the insulating ring 1A are bent into the valleys 30 between adjacent cylindrical batteries 41 and extend along the valleys 30, thereby providing insulation between the side surfaces of the cylindrical batteries 41 and the electronic component 60. This eliminates the need for the process of applying insulating tape or other similar means.

[0037] The insulating ring 1A can secure the cylindrical batteries 41 via the continuous portion 10 where the ring portions 11 are connected, and can insulate the valleys 30 by bending the extension portions 20 that extend from the continuous portion 10 to correspond to the valleys 30. This type of insulating ring 1A can be formed, for example, by punching using a die. This makes it possible to efficiently and low-costly obtain the insulating ring 1A that can secure and insulate the cylindrical batteries 41 as described above, and further makes it possible to efficiently and low-costly obtain a battery pack 40A using this insulating ring 1A.

[0038] The above explanation has been given as an example of an insulating ring 1A used in a battery pack 40A including a group of eight cylindrical batteries 41 arranged in a row, but the insulating ring can be made into various shapes to suit the number and arrangement of the cylindrical battery groups included in the battery pack.

[0039] 5A to 5C are diagrams illustrating another example of the configuration of the insulating ring according to the first embodiment, each of which is a schematic plan view of an example of the insulating ring. The insulating ring 1B shown in FIG. 5(A) is an example of an insulating ring that is attached to three cylindrical battery groups in a battery pack that includes three cylindrical battery groups arranged side by side in a row. The insulating ring 1B has a flat continuous portion 10 that connects three ring portions 11 that correspond to the electrode surfaces (positive or negative electrode surfaces) of each of the three cylindrical battery groups on one end face of the three cylindrical battery groups. Each ring portion 11 in the continuous portion 10 has an opening 10a that opens to the electrode surface of the corresponding cylindrical battery. The insulating ring 1B also has a flange-shaped extension portion 20 that extends outward from a side edge 12 of the flat continuous portion 10 that corresponds to the valley between adjacent cylindrical batteries. Before the insulating ring 1B is attached to the cylindrical battery group, the extension portion 20 is flat and located in the same plane as the continuous portion 10. After the insulating ring 1B is attached to the cylindrical battery group, it can be bent into the valley between adjacent cylindrical batteries.

[0040] The insulating ring 1C shown in FIG. 5(B) is an example of an insulating ring attached to four cylindrical battery groups arranged in a row in a battery pack. The insulating ring 1C has a flat continuous portion 10 formed by a series of four ring portions 11 connected together, each corresponding to one end of the four cylindrical battery groups' electrode surfaces (positive or negative electrode surfaces). Each ring portion 11 in the continuous portion 10 has an opening 10a that opens to the electrode surface of the corresponding cylindrical battery. The insulating ring 1C also has a flange-shaped extension portion 20 that extends outward from a side edge 12 of the flat continuous portion 10 that corresponds to the gap between adjacent cylindrical battery groups. Before the insulating ring 1C is attached to the cylindrical battery groups, the extension portion 20 is flat and located in the same plane as the continuous portion 10. After the insulating ring 1C is attached to the cylindrical battery groups, it can be bent to fit into the gap between adjacent cylindrical batteries.

[0041] The insulating ring 1D shown in FIG. 5(C) is an example of an insulating ring attached to nine cylindrical battery groups arranged in two rows of nine cylindrical batteries in a battery pack. The insulating ring 1D has a flat continuous portion 10 formed by a series of nine ring portions 11 corresponding to the electrode surfaces (positive or negative electrode surfaces) of each of the nine cylindrical battery groups provided on one end face of the nine cylindrical battery groups. Each ring portion 11 of the continuous portion 10 has an opening 10a that opens to the electrode surface of the corresponding cylindrical battery. The insulating ring 1D also has a flange-shaped extension portion 20 that extends outward from a side edge 12 of the flat continuous portion 10 that corresponds to the gap between adjacent cylindrical battery groups. Before the insulating ring 1D is attached to the cylindrical battery groups, the extension portion 20 is flat and located in the same plane as the continuous portion 10. After the insulating ring 1D is attached to the cylindrical battery groups, it can be bent into the gap between adjacent cylindrical batteries.

[0042] By following the examples of insulating rings 1B, 1C, and 1D described above, insulating rings of various shapes can be obtained that match the number and arrangement of cylindrical battery groups included in the battery pack. Insulating rings of various shapes, such as insulating rings 1B, 1C, and 1D, can be formed, for example, by punching using a die.

[0043] As described above, insulating rings of various shapes can be attached to groups of cylindrical batteries arranged side by side, and the extensions 20 can be bent into the gaps between adjacent cylindrical batteries, and then connecting terminals and electronic components to obtain a battery pack. As an example, a battery pack in which three groups of cylindrical batteries are arranged side by side in a row and which uses insulating ring 1B as shown in Figure 5(A) above will be described with reference to the following Figure 6.

[0044] Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating another example of the configuration of the battery pack according to the first embodiment. Figure 6(A) is a schematic perspective view of an example of a state in which the extensions of the insulating ring attached to the cylindrical battery group are folded. Figure 6(B) is a schematic perspective view of an example of a state in which the connection terminals and electronic components are connected.

[0045] First, as shown in Figure 6(A), identical flat insulating rings 1B are attached to one end face and the other end face of a group of three cylindrical batteries 41 arranged in a row. The insulating rings 1B are attached using double-sided tape or similar so that each ring portion 11 of the continuous portion 10 faces the electrode surface 41a of each cylindrical battery 41, and a portion of the corresponding electrode surface 41a is exposed through the opening 10a provided in each ring portion 11. After the insulating rings 1B are attached, the extensions 20 are folded at bending positions 21 into the valleys 30 between adjacent cylindrical batteries 41. The extensions 20 folded into the valleys 30 may then be attached to the side surfaces of the cylindrical batteries 41 using double-sided tape or similar. This results in a state where three cylindrical batteries 41 are arranged side by side in a row and fixed by the flat continuous portions 10 of the two insulating rings 1B, with extension portions 20 provided in the valleys 30, as shown in Figure 6(A).

[0046] Next, as shown in FIG. 6(B), the connection portions 51 of the connection terminals 50 are connected by welding or other methods to the electrode surfaces 41a on one and the other end faces of the cylindrical batteries 41 exposed through the openings 10a of the insulating ring 1B. Furthermore, the extension portions 52 of the connection terminals 50 are bent into the valleys 30 between adjacent cylindrical batteries 41 to match the outer shape of the insulating ring 1B with the bent extension portions 20. The axial leads 61 of electronic components 60, including diodes and other protective elements, are then connected to the bent extension portions 52 of the connection terminals 50. The axial leads 61 and the side faces of the cylindrical batteries 41 are insulated by the extension portions 20 of the insulating ring 1B bent into the valleys 30. For example, in this manner, a battery pack 40B such as the one shown in FIG. 6(B) can be obtained.

[0047] It is also possible to prepare a connection terminal 50 in advance by bending the lead-out portion 52 to which the axial lead 61 of the electronic component 60 is connected, and then connect this to the electrode surface 41 a of the cylindrical battery 41 .

[0048] Although not shown here, the assembled battery 40B may further be connected with leads, tabs, etc. for electrically connecting the different cylindrical batteries 41, and may also be connected with tabs, leads, connectors, etc. for electrically connecting the assembled battery 40B to the outside.

[0049] The insulating ring 1B allows the cylindrical batteries 41 to be fixed by the continuous portion 10 where the ring portions 11 are connected, and also provides insulation at the valleys 30 by bending the extension portions 20 that extend from the continuous portion 10 to correspond to the valleys 30. This type of insulating ring 1B can be formed, for example, by punching using a die. This makes it possible to efficiently and low-costly obtain the insulating ring 1B that can fix and insulate the cylindrical batteries 41 as described above, and further makes it possible to efficiently and low-costly obtain a battery pack 40B using this insulating ring 1B.

[0050] Insulating rings of various shapes can be used to realize corresponding assembled batteries in the same manner as described above. [Second embodiment] 7A and 7B are diagrams illustrating an example of the configuration of an insulating ring according to the second embodiment, each of which is a schematic plan view of an example of an insulating ring.

[0051] The insulating ring 1E shown in FIG. 7(A) is an example of an insulating ring attached to eight cylindrical battery groups in a battery pack including eight cylindrical battery groups arranged side by side in a row. The insulating ring 1E has a configuration in which a flange-shaped extension portion 20 extends outward from a side edge portion 12 of the continuous portion 10 corresponding to a valley between adjacent cylindrical batteries, and extends in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the arrangement of the ring portions 11 of the continuous portion 10. More specifically, when positioned in the same plane as the flat continuous portion 10, the extension portion 20 of the insulating ring 1E extends from a position Q1 corresponding to the contact point between the side surfaces of adjacent cylindrical batteries in a planar view, from the side edge portion 12 of the continuous portion 10 in a direction perpendicular to the center line C1 (the axis of the continuous portion 10) connecting the centers O1 of the ring portions 11 corresponding to the adjacent cylindrical batteries. This configuration distinguishes the insulating ring 1E from the insulating ring 1A ( FIG. 1 ) described in the first embodiment.

[0052] 7(B) is an example of an insulating ring attached to eight cylindrical battery groups in a battery pack including eight cylindrical battery groups arranged side by side in a row. The insulating ring 1F has a configuration in which flange-shaped extensions 20 extend from side edge portions 12 of the continuous portion 10 that correspond to all of the valleys between the arranged cylindrical battery groups in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the arrangement of the ring portions 11 of the continuous portion 10. The insulating ring 1F differs from the insulating ring 1E shown in FIG. 7(A) in that it has this configuration.

[0053] As shown in Figures 7(A) and 7(B), flat insulating rings 1E and 1F having a continuous portion 10 in which a group of ring portions 11 are connected and an extension portion 20 extending outward from a side edge portion 12 at a predetermined position thereof are formed, for example, by punching using a mold.

[0054] The above-described flat insulating rings 1E, 1F can be formed by punching using a die, and because the die used has a relatively simple structure, it is possible to reduce the time and cost required for die fabrication, etc. This makes it possible to manufacture the insulating rings 1E, 1F efficiently and at low cost. Furthermore, using such insulating rings 1E, 1F makes it possible to manufacture battery packs efficiently and at low cost.

[0055] Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of attachment of an insulating ring to a cylindrical battery group according to the second embodiment. Figure 8(A) is a schematic perspective view of an example of a state in which a flat insulating ring is attached to a cylindrical battery group. Figure 8(B) is a schematic perspective view of an example of a state in which the extended portion of the insulating ring attached to the cylindrical battery group is folded. Figure 8(C) is a schematic perspective view of an example of a state in which a connection terminal is connected.

[0056] First, as shown in FIG. 8(A), a flat insulating ring 1E, for example, is attached to one end face of the group of cylindrical batteries 41 arranged in a row. The insulating ring 1E is attached using double-sided tape or the like so that each ring portion 11 of the continuous portion 10 faces the electrode surface 41a of each cylindrical battery 41, and a portion of the corresponding electrode surface 41a is exposed through the opening 10a provided in each ring portion 11. After the insulating ring 1E is attached, the extension portions 20 are folded at bending positions 21 into the valleys 30 between adjacent cylindrical batteries 41, as shown in FIG. 8(B). This results in the group of cylindrical batteries 41 arranged in a row, secured in place by the flat continuous portion 10 of the insulating ring 1E, and the extension portions 20 being provided in the valleys 30.

[0057] Although not shown here, a flat insulating ring 1E having the same shape as that on one end face may be attached to the other end face of the group of cylindrical batteries 41 arranged in a row, and its extension 20 may be bent into the valley 30 between adjacent cylindrical batteries 41.

[0058] After the insulating ring 1E is attached and its extensions 20 are bent, as shown in Figure 8(C), the connection portions 51 of the connection terminals 50 are connected by welding or other methods to the electrode surfaces 41a of the cylindrical batteries 41 exposed through the openings 10a of the insulating ring 1E, and the lead-out portions 52 are bent into the valleys 30 between adjacent cylindrical batteries 41. Electronic components, including protective elements such as diodes, are connected to the bent lead-out portions 52 of the connection terminals 50.

[0059] The insulating ring 1A of the first embodiment shown in Figure 1 has a configuration in which the extension portions 20 provided corresponding to the valleys 30 between adjacent cylindrical batteries 41 extend in a direction inclined in plan view relative to the axis of the continuous portion 10. Therefore, in the battery pack 40A using the insulating ring 1A obtained as shown in Figures 2 to 4, the extension portions 20 that are bent into the valleys 30 between adjacent cylindrical batteries 41 are provided on one side of the adjacent cylindrical batteries 41, thereby insulating that side.

[0060] In contrast, the insulating ring 1E shown in Figures 7(A) and 8(A) has an extension portion 20 that is provided corresponding to the valley 30 between adjacent cylindrical batteries 41 and that extends in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the continuous portion 10 in a plan view. As a result, in a battery pack using the insulating ring 1E, as shown in Figures 8(B) and 8(C), the extension portion 20 that is bent into the valley 30 between adjacent cylindrical batteries 41 is provided on both side surfaces of the adjacent cylindrical batteries 41, making it possible to insulate both side surfaces. The extension portion 20 that is bent into the valley 30 may be curved in the depth direction of the valley 30, i.e., in the direction toward the contact point between the side surfaces of adjacent cylindrical batteries 41, and may be attached to both side surfaces of the adjacent cylindrical batteries 41 using double-sided tape or the like. According to the insulating ring 1E, the extensions 20 of the valleys 30 insulate the electronic components connected to the draw-out portions 52 of the connection terminals 50 bent into the valleys 30 between adjacent cylindrical batteries 41 from both side surfaces of the adjacent cylindrical batteries 41.

[0061] Furthermore, in a battery pack using the insulating ring 1E, by extending the extension portion 20 of the insulating ring 1E in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the continuous portion 10, the shape of the connection terminal 50 that connects to the electrode surfaces 41a of the cylindrical batteries 41 can be made into a relatively simple and easy-to-manufacture cross shape. For example, the cross-shaped connection terminal 50 can be made by punching using a die, or by preparing two rectangular flat plates and welding them together to form a cross shape.

[0062] The insulating ring 1E can secure the cylindrical batteries 41 via the continuous portion 10, which is a continuous group of ring portions 11. Furthermore, the extension portions 20 extending from the continuous portion 10 at the corresponding valleys 30 provide insulation. The valleys 30 can also provide insulation for the side surfaces of the cylindrical batteries 41 on both sides. This type of insulating ring 1E can be formed, for example, by stamping using a die. This allows for efficient and low-cost production of the insulating ring 1E capable of securing and insulating the cylindrical batteries 41 described above. Furthermore, the connecting terminals 50 used in a battery pack using the insulating ring 1E can be made relatively simple and easy to fabricate. Using this type of insulating ring 1E and connecting terminals 50, battery packs can be produced efficiently and at low cost.

[0063] Although Figures 8(A) to 8(C) show an example in which an insulating ring 1E as shown in Figure 7(A) is used, it is also possible to obtain a battery pack similar to that described above by following this example and using an insulating ring 1F as shown in Figure 7(B), and to obtain the same effects as those described above.

[0064] Another configuration example will be further described. 9A and 9B are diagrams illustrating another example of the configuration of the insulating ring according to the second embodiment, each of which is a schematic plan view of an example of the insulating ring.

[0065] The insulating ring 1G shown in Fig. 9(A) has a configuration in which a slit 70 is provided between a continuous portion 10 where a group of ring portions 11 are connected and an extension portion 20 that extends from a side edge portion 12 corresponding to a valley between predetermined adjacent cylindrical batteries, i.e., at the base of the extension portion 20. For example, the insulating ring 1G has a slit 70 provided in the tangential direction of the ring portion 11 at the base of the extension portion 20. The insulating ring 1G differs from the insulating ring 1E shown in Fig. 7(A) above in that it has such a configuration.

[0066] Furthermore, the insulating ring 1H shown in Fig. 9(B) has a configuration in which a slit 70 is provided between the continuous portion 10 where the group of ring portions 11 are connected and the extension portion 20 that extends from the side edge portion 12 corresponding to the valley between all adjacent cylindrical batteries, i.e., at the base of the extension portion 20. For example, the insulating ring 1H has a slit 70 provided in the tangential direction of the ring portion 11 at the base of the extension portion 20. The insulating ring 1H differs from the insulating ring 1F shown in Fig. 7(B) above in that it has such a configuration.

[0067] The extension length of the extension portion 20 is not particularly limited as long as it is capable of covering the areas on the side surfaces of the cylindrical batteries that require insulation when the extension portion 20 is bent into the valley between adjacent cylindrical batteries.

[0068] Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating another example of attachment of an insulating ring to a cylindrical battery group according to the second embodiment. Figure 10(A) is a schematic perspective view of an example of a state in which a flat insulating ring is attached to a cylindrical battery group. Figure 10(B) is a schematic perspective view of an example of a state in which the extended portion of the insulating ring attached to the cylindrical battery group is folded. Figure 10(C) is a schematic perspective view of an example of a state in which a connecting terminal is connected.

[0069] First, as shown in Figure 10(A), a flat insulating ring 1G, for example, is attached to one end face of the group of cylindrical batteries 41 arranged in a single row. The insulating ring 1G is attached using double-sided tape or the like so that each ring portion 11 of the continuous portion 10 faces the electrode surface 41a of each cylindrical battery 41, and a portion of the corresponding electrode surface 41a is exposed through the opening 10a provided in each ring portion 11. After the insulating ring 1G is attached, the extension portion 20 is then folded at the folding position 21 into the valleys 30 between adjacent cylindrical batteries 41, as shown in Figure 10(B). This results in the group of cylindrical batteries 41 arranged in a single row, secured in place by the flat continuous portion 10 of the insulating ring 1G, and the extension portion 20 being provided in the valleys 30.

[0070] Although not shown here, a flat insulating ring 1G having the same shape as that on one end face may be attached to the other end face of the group of cylindrical batteries 41 arranged in a row, and its extension portion 20 may be bent into the valley 30 between adjacent cylindrical batteries 41.

[0071] After the insulating ring 1G is attached and its extensions 20 are bent, as shown in Figure 10(C), the connection portions 51 of the connection terminals 50 are connected by welding or other methods to the electrode surfaces 41a of the cylindrical batteries 41 exposed from the openings 10a of the insulating ring 1G, and the lead-out portions 52 are bent into the valleys 30 between adjacent cylindrical batteries 41. Electronic components, including protective elements such as diodes, are connected to the bent lead-out portions 52 of the connection terminals 50.

[0072] 9(A) and 10(A), a slit 70 is provided at the base of the extension 20, between the continuous portion 10 and the extension 20 extending from the side edge 12 at a predetermined position. Therefore, in this insulating ring 1G, the width of the bending portion of the extension 20 is narrower than in the insulating ring 1E shown in FIGS. 7(A) and 8(A), making it relatively easy to bend the extension 20. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 10(B), in the insulating ring 1G, the bending position 21 of the extension 20 is shifted deeper in the valley 30 between adjacent cylindrical batteries 41, i.e., closer to the contact point between the side surfaces of adjacent cylindrical batteries 41, compared to the insulating ring 1E. 10(B), the insulating ring 1G can be provided with the side edges 22 with slits 70 on both sides of the bending position 21 of the extension 20 bent or curved along both side surfaces of the adjacent cylindrical battery 41. The extension 20 bent into the valley 30 can be attached to both side surfaces of the adjacent cylindrical battery 41 using double-sided tape or the like.

[0073] The insulating ring 1G makes it easy to provide extensions 20 bent into the valleys 30 of adjacent cylindrical batteries 41 on both side surfaces of adjacent cylindrical batteries 41. This makes it possible to more reliably insulate the extensions 20 from both side surfaces of the adjacent cylindrical batteries 41 and the electronic components connected to the extensions 20, as shown in Figure 10(C).

[0074] Furthermore, the insulating ring 1G can be formed by stamping using a die, similar to the insulating ring 1E. This makes it possible to efficiently and inexpensively obtain the insulating ring 1G capable of fixing and insulating the group of cylindrical batteries 41 described above. Furthermore, the connecting terminals 50 applied to the battery pack using the insulating ring 1G can be made into a relatively simple and easy-to-manufacture shape, such as a cross shape. Using such insulating ring 1G and connecting terminals 50, it is possible to efficiently and inexpensively obtain the battery pack.

[0075] Although Figures 10(A) to 10(C) show an example in which an insulating ring 1G as shown in Figure 9(A) is used, it is also possible to obtain a battery pack similar to that described above by following this example and using an insulating ring 1H as shown in Figure 9(B), and to obtain the same effects as those described above.

[0076] The insulating rings according to the first and second embodiments described above enable the manufacturing time and cost of an insulating ring that can secure the cylindrical batteries included in a battery pack and insulate the side surfaces of selected cylindrical batteries to be reduced. Furthermore, the use of such insulating rings enables the manufacturing time and cost of a battery pack to be reduced. [Explanation of symbols]

[0077] 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E, 1F, 1G, 1H Insulation ring 10 Continuous section 10a opening 11 Ring section 12 Side edge 20 Stretching section 21 Bending position 22 Side edge 30 Valley 40A,40B assembled battery 41 Cylindrical battery 41a Electrode surface 50 connection terminal 51 Connection 52 Drawer section 60 Electronic Components 61 Axial Lead 70 Notch

Claims

1. A battery pack including a plurality of cylindrical batteries arranged side by side so that their side surfaces are in contact with each other, the battery pack including a plurality of flat ring portions corresponding to the electrode surfaces provided on one end face side of the plurality of cylindrical batteries, the plurality of ring portions being continuous in the same plane so that the ring portions corresponding to adjacent cylindrical batteries in the plurality of cylindrical batteries are continuous with each other; an extension portion extending from a side edge portion of the flat continuous portion corresponding to a valley between at least one pair of adjacent cylindrical batteries among the plurality of cylindrical batteries to the outside of the continuous portion; An insulating ring comprising:

2. The insulating ring described in claim 1, characterized in that when the extension portion is located in the same plane as the flat continuous portion, it extends from the side edge portion of the continuous portion in a direction at an angle of 40° to 90° from the center of one of the ring portions corresponding to the adjacent cylindrical batteries in a planar view, relative to the center line connecting the centers of the ring portions corresponding to the adjacent cylindrical batteries.

3. The insulating ring described in claim 1, characterized in that when positioned in the same plane as the flat continuous portion, the extension portion extends from the side edge portion of the continuous portion in a direction perpendicular to the center line connecting the centers of the ring portions corresponding to the adjacent cylindrical batteries, from a position corresponding to the contact point of the adjacent cylindrical batteries in a planar view.

4. 4. The insulating ring according to claim 1, further comprising a notch disposed between the continuous portion and the extending portion.

5. A plurality of cylindrical batteries arranged side by side so that their sides are in contact with each other; a first insulating ring attached to one end surface side of the plurality of cylindrical batteries; Including, The first insulating ring is a flat-plate-shaped first continuous portion including a plurality of flat-plate-shaped first ring portions corresponding to the first electrode surfaces provided on the one end face side of the plurality of cylindrical batteries, the plurality of first ring portions being continuous in the same plane so that the first ring portions corresponding to adjacent cylindrical batteries in the plurality of cylindrical batteries are continuous with each other; a first extension portion extending from a first side edge portion of the flat first continuous portion corresponding to a first valley between at least one pair of adjacent cylindrical batteries among the plurality of cylindrical batteries to the outside of the first continuous portion; and The battery pack, wherein the first extension portion is bent from the first side edge portion to the first valley portion and extends along the first valley portion.

6. 6. The battery pack according to claim 5, wherein the first extension portion is provided on a side surface of one of the adjacent cylindrical batteries.

7. 6. The battery pack according to claim 5, wherein the first extension portion is provided across both side surfaces of the adjacent cylindrical batteries.

8. a second insulating ring attached to the other end surface side of the plurality of cylindrical batteries; The second insulating ring is a flat-plate-shaped second continuous portion including a plurality of flat-plate-shaped second ring portions corresponding to the second electrode surfaces provided on the other end face side of the plurality of cylindrical batteries, the plurality of second ring portions being continuous in the same plane so that the second ring portions corresponding to adjacent cylindrical batteries are continuous with each other; a second extension portion extending from a second side edge portion of the flat second continuous portion corresponding to the first valley between the adjacent cylindrical batteries to the outside of the second continuous portion; and 8. The battery pack according to claim 5, wherein the second extension portion is bent from the second side edge portion to the first valley portion and extends along the first valley portion.

9. a first connection terminal including a first connection portion connected to the first electrode surface and a first lead portion led from the first connection portion, passing over the first continuous portion, to the first extending portion bent into the first valley; a second connection terminal including a second connection portion connected to the second electrode surface and a second lead portion led from the second connection portion, passing over the second continuous portion, to the second extension portion bent into the first valley; an electronic component provided in the first valley and having a first lead connected to the first lead portion and a second lead connected to the second lead portion; The battery pack according to claim 8, further comprising:

10. In a battery pack including a plurality of cylindrical batteries arranged in parallel, on one end surface side of the plurality of cylindrical batteries, a flat first continuous portion formed by a series of first ring portions corresponding to the first electrode surfaces of the cylindrical batteries provided on the one end surface side of the cylindrical batteries; a first extension portion extending from a first side edge portion of the flat first continuous portion corresponding to a first valley between at least one pair of adjacent cylindrical batteries among the plurality of cylindrical batteries to the outside of the first continuous portion; a first insulating ring having a first electrode surface and a first ring portion, the first insulating ring having a first electrode surface and a first ring portion, bending the first extension portion from the first side edge portion to the first valley and extending the first extension portion along the first valley; A method for manufacturing a battery pack, comprising:

11. On the other end surface side of the plurality of cylindrical batteries, a flat second continuous portion formed by a series of second ring portions corresponding to the second electrode surfaces of the cylindrical batteries provided on the other end surface side; a second extension portion extending from a second side edge portion of the flat second continuous portion corresponding to the first valley between the adjacent cylindrical batteries to the outside of the second continuous portion; and attaching a second insulating ring having a second ring portion to the second electrode surface, the second insulating ring having a second ring portion. bending the second extension portion from the second side edge portion to the first valley and extending the second extension portion along the first valley; The method for manufacturing a battery pack according to claim 10, further comprising:

12. providing a first connection terminal having a first connection portion connected to the first electrode surface and a first drawn-out portion drawn from the first connection portion, passing over the first continuous portion, and onto the first extending portion bent into the first valley; providing a second connection terminal having a second connection portion connected to the second electrode surface and a second lead portion led from the second connection portion, passing over the second continuous portion, to the second extension portion bent into the first valley; providing an electronic component in the first valley, the electronic component having a first lead connected to the first lead portion and a second lead connected to the second lead portion; The method for manufacturing a battery pack according to claim 11, further comprising:

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