Battery connection device and power storage system

Abstract

To promote component commonality of bus bars for electrically connecting storage batteries, in a storage battery connection device configured to connect a plurality of types of storage batteries having different distances between a positive electrode terminal and a negative electrode terminal.SOLUTION: A storage battery connection device 100 is configured to connect in series a plurality of types of storage battery modules M1 to M10 having different distances between a positive electrode terminal P and a negative electrode terminal N. The storage battery connection device 100 includes a power line that provides electrical conduction between adjacent ones of the storage battery modules M1 to M10. The power line includes: a main bus bar 102 electrically connected to the positive electrode terminal P of one storage battery module M1 to M10 and the negative electrode terminal N of the other storage battery module M1 to M10; and sub-bus bars 105, 106 electrically connected to the main bus bar 102 and electrically and mechanically connected to one of the positive electrode terminal P and the negative electrode terminal N. A mechanical connection position between the sub-bus bar 105, 106 and the positive electrode terminal P or the negative electrode terminal N can be adjusted in accordance with the distance between the positive electrode terminal P and the negative electrode terminal N.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a storage battery connection device and a power storage system. [Background technology]

[0002] A known energy storage system in which multiple storage battery modules are connected has an exterior member that houses a control board and is placed on top of the storage battery modules, and bus bars that electrically connect the storage battery modules are provided on the exterior member (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-203754 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-123339 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the above-described energy storage system, when connecting multiple types of storage battery modules with different distances between the positive and negative terminals, multiple types of bus bars with different lengths are required to match the differences in distances between the positive and negative terminals.

[0005] In view of the above circumstances, the present invention aims to promote the standardization of busbar components that electrically connect storage batteries in a storage battery connection device that connects multiple types of storage batteries with different distances between their positive and negative terminals, and in an energy storage system. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The storage battery connection device of the present invention is a storage battery connection device that connects in series a plurality of types of storage batteries having different distances between their positive and negative terminals, and includes a conductive path that provides electrical conductivity between adjacent storage batteries, the conductive path including a first bus bar that is electrically connected to the positive terminal of one of the storage batteries and the negative terminal of the other storage battery, and a second bus bar that is electrically connected to the first bus bar and is electrically and mechanically connected to one of the positive and negative terminals. a third bus bar electrically connected to the first bus bar and electrically and mechanically connected to the other of the positive electrode terminal and the negative electrode terminal; a mechanical connection position between the second bus bar and one of the positive electrode terminal and the negative electrode terminal is adjustable according to the distance between the positive electrode terminal and the negative electrode terminal. a mechanical connection position between the third bus bar and the other of the positive electrode terminal and the negative electrode terminal is adjustable according to the distance between the positive electrode terminal and the negative electrode terminal; do. The battery connection device of the present invention is a battery connection device that connects in series multiple types of batteries with different distances between their positive and negative terminals, and includes a conductive path that provides electrical conductivity between adjacent batteries, the conductive path including a first bus bar electrically connected to the positive terminal of one of the batteries and the negative terminal of the other battery, and a second bus bar electrically connected to the first bus bar and electrically and mechanically connected to one of the positive terminal and the negative terminal, and the conductive path includes a first switch that electrically connects or disconnects the positive terminal or the negative terminal to the first bus bar, a bypass path that electrically connects adjacent first bus bars, and a second switch that is provided in the bypass path and electrically connects or disconnects adjacent first bus bars. The battery connection device of the present invention is a battery connection device that connects in series multiple types of batteries with different distances between their positive and negative terminals, and is provided with a conductive path that provides electrical conductivity between adjacent batteries, the conductive path including a first bus bar electrically connected to the positive terminal of one of the batteries and the negative terminal of the other battery, and a second bus bar electrically connected to the first bus bar and electrically and mechanically connected to one of the positive terminal and the negative terminal, and a plate on which the conductive path is provided, and the plate has openings formed therein for mechanically connecting the positive terminal and the negative terminal to the conductive path.

[0007] The present invention provides an energy storage system including a plurality of types of storage batteries having different distances between their positive and negative terminals, and a storage battery connection device that connects the plurality of types of storage batteries in series, wherein the storage battery connection device includes a conductive path that provides electrical conductivity between adjacent storage batteries, the conductive path including a first bus bar that is electrically connected to the positive terminal of one of the storage batteries and the negative terminal of the other storage battery, and a second bus bar that is electrically connected to the first bus bar and is electrically and mechanically connected to one of the positive terminal and the negative terminal. a third bus bar electrically connected to the first bus bar and electrically and mechanically connected to the other of the positive electrode terminal and the negative electrode terminal; a mechanical connection position between the second bus bar and one of the positive electrode terminal and the negative electrode terminal is adjustable according to the distance between the positive electrode terminal and the negative electrode terminal. a mechanical connection position between the third bus bar and the other of the positive electrode terminal and the negative electrode terminal is adjustable according to the distance between the positive electrode terminal and the negative electrode terminal; do. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, in a battery connection device and a power storage system that connect multiple types of storage batteries with different distances between their positive and negative terminals, it is possible to promote the standardization of bus bar components that electrically connect the storage batteries. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a power storage system including a storage battery connection device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a circuit diagram showing a circuit configuration of the power storage system shown in FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is an enlarged perspective view of a part of the power storage system shown in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a plan view showing the switch unit shown in FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a plan view showing the main bus bar and the sub-bus bar shown in FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a connection structure between the storage battery module and the sub-bus bar shown in FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a plan view showing a modified example of the sub-bus bar shown in FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the connection structure between the storage battery module and the sub-bus bar shown in FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is an enlarged perspective view showing a part of a power storage system including a storage battery connection device according to another embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The present invention will be described below in accordance with preferred embodiments. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below, and the embodiments can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention. In addition, in the embodiments described below, some components are omitted from illustration and description, but for the details of the omitted technologies, publicly known or well-known technologies are applied as appropriate within the scope of not causing any contradictions with the content described below.

[0011] 1 is a perspective view showing a power storage system 1 including a storage battery connection device 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in this figure, the power storage system 1 includes a storage battery string 10 and the storage battery connection device 100.

[0012] The storage battery string 10 is a stationary or vehicle-mounted power supply that includes n storage battery modules M1-M10 (n is an integer of 2 or greater, and 10 in this embodiment) connected in series. Although not particularly limited, the storage battery modules M1-M10 in this embodiment are refurbished second-hand storage batteries, and the storage battery modules M1-M10 have different degrees of deterioration. The storage battery modules M1-M10 are, for example, secondary batteries such as lithium-ion batteries or lithium-ion capacitors, and are charged by receiving power from an external system (not shown) via a power converter 130, and then discharge the charged power via the power converter 130 to supply power to the external system.

[0013] The external system includes a load, a generator, etc. When the power storage system 1 is for stationary use, the load is the business equipment or home appliances, and the generator is a solar power generation system, etc. On the other hand, when the power storage system 1 is for vehicle use, the load is the drive motor, air conditioner, various vehicle electrical components, etc. The drive motor is both a load and a generator.

[0014] The battery string 10 may include a plurality of battery cells or battery packs connected in series, instead of the plurality of battery modules M1 to M10 connected in series. As will be described later, the power storage system 1 includes switch units SU1 to SU10 that bypass the respective battery modules M1 to M10, but may include switch units SU1 to SU10 that bypass the respective battery cells or battery packs.

[0015] The storage battery modules M1 to M10 each include a positive terminal P and a negative terminal N. The distances between the positive terminals P and negative terminals N of the storage battery modules M1 to M10 (hereinafter referred to as inter-terminal distances) are not the same. For example, as shown in the figure, the inter-terminal distances of the storage battery modules M1 and M10 are shorter than the inter-terminal distances of the storage battery modules M2 to M9, and the inter-terminal distances of the storage battery modules M2 to M4 and M7 to M9 are shorter than the inter-terminal distances of the storage battery modules M5 and M6. That is, the storage battery string 10 includes multiple types (three types in the example shown) of storage battery modules M1 to M10 with different inter-terminal distances.

[0016] The battery connection device 100 includes a base plate 101, a plurality of switch units SU1 to SU10, main bus bars 102, 103, and 104, and sub-bus bars 105 and 106. The battery connection device 100 also includes a current sensor 107, a power converter 130, a service plug 140, and a BMS (Battery Management System) 150. The battery connection device 100 also includes a wire harness unit 160 for communication and power supply.

[0017] On the other hand, the battery connection device 100 includes n (n is an integer equal to or greater than 2, and is 6 in this embodiment) connection units CU1 to CU6 arranged in a line. The first connection unit CU1 is provided with a power converter 130 and a current sensor 107. Following this connection unit CU1, the connection units CU2 to CU6 are arranged in order. The connection units CU3 to CU5 arranged between the connection unit CU2 and the last connection unit CU6 have a common configuration. The connection units CU2 and CU6 have different configurations from the connection units CU3 to CU5. Furthermore, the connection units CU2 and CU6 have different configurations from each other. However, the connection units CU2 to CU6 include units with a common structure. The connection unit CU2 is fabricated by mounting a BMS 150 and the like on a unit with a common structure. The connection unit CU6 is fabricated by mounting a service plug 140, main bus bars 103 and 104 and the like on a unit with a common structure.

[0018] The battery modules M1 to M5 are arranged in a linear row from the front to the rear, and the battery modules M6 to M10 are arranged in a linear row from the rear to the front. The row of battery modules M1 to M5 and the row of battery modules M6 to M10 are arranged parallel to each other, and the battery connection device 100 is arranged on top of the battery modules M1 to M10.

[0019] The connection unit CU2 is arranged overlapping the storage battery modules M1 and M10 and includes a pair of switch units SU1 and SU10. The connection unit CU3 is arranged overlapping the storage battery modules M2 and M9 and includes a pair of switch units SU2 and SU9. The connection unit CU4 is arranged overlapping the storage battery modules M3 and M8 and includes a pair of switch units SU3 and SU8. The connection unit CU5 is arranged overlapping the storage battery modules M4 and M7 and includes a pair of switch units SU4 and SU7. The connection unit CU6 is arranged overlapping the storage battery modules M5 and M6 and includes a pair of switch units SU5 and SU6.

[0020] The storage battery modules M1 to M10 are arranged in the order M1, M2, ... M10 in the direction in which the storage battery modules M1 to M10 are connected. Similarly, the switch units SU1 to SU10 are arranged in the order SU1, SU2, ... SU10 in the direction in which the storage battery modules M1 to M10 are connected.

[0021] The switch units SU1 to SU10 are connected to the positive terminals P of the storage battery modules M1 to M10 via a sub-bus bar 105, and are connected to the negative terminals N of the storage battery modules M1 to M10 via a sub-bus bar 106. The switch units SU1 to SU10 have a common configuration. Details of the configuration of the switch units SU1 to SU10 and the connection structure between the switch units SU1 to SU10 and the storage battery modules M1 to M10 will be described later.

[0022] The power converter 130 is, for example, a bidirectional DC / DC converter, and includes a positive terminal 131 on the primary side during discharge, a negative terminal 132 on the primary side during discharge, a positive terminal (not shown) on the secondary side during discharge, and a negative terminal (not shown) on the secondary side during discharge. A pair of main bus bars 102 are arranged to straddle the connection unit CU1 and the connection unit CU2. The positive terminal 131 is connected to the switch unit SU1 of the connection unit CU2 via a current sensor 107 and one of the main bus bars 102. The negative terminal 132 is connected to the switch unit SU10 of the connection unit CU2 via the other main bus bar 102.

[0023] A pair of main bus bars 102 are arranged to straddle the connection unit CU2 and the connection unit CU3. The switch unit SU1 of the connection unit CU2 is connected to the switch unit SU2 of the connection unit CU3 via one of the main bus bars 102. The switch unit SU9 of the connection unit CU3 is connected to the switch unit SU10 of the connection unit CU2 via the other main bus bar 102.

[0024] Similarly, a pair of main bus bars 102 are arranged to straddle the connection unit CU3 and the connection unit CU4. The switch unit SU2 of the connection unit CU3 is connected to the switch unit SU3 of the connection unit CU4 via one of the main bus bars 102. Furthermore, the switch unit SU8 of the connection unit CU4 is connected to the switch unit SU9 of the connection unit CU3 via the other main bus bar 102.

[0025] Similarly, a pair of main bus bars 102 are arranged to straddle the connection unit CU4 and the connection unit CU5. The switch unit SU3 of the connection unit CU4 is connected to the switch unit SU4 of the connection unit CU5 via one of the main bus bars 102. Furthermore, the switch unit SU7 of the connection unit CU5 is connected to the switch unit SU8 of the connection unit CU4 via the other main bus bar 102.

[0026] Similarly, a pair of main bus bars 102 are arranged to straddle the connection unit CU5 and the connection unit CU6. The switch unit SU4 of the connection unit CU5 is connected to the switch unit SU5 of the connection unit CU6 via one of the main bus bars 102. The switch unit SU6 of the connection unit CU6 is connected to the switch unit SU7 of the connection unit CU5 via the other main bus bar 102.

[0027] A pair of main bus bars 103 and a pair of main bus bars 104 are arranged on the connection unit CU6. The switch unit SU5 of the connection unit CU6 is connected to the service plug 140 via one of the main bus bars 103 and one of the main bus bars 104. The service plug 140 is connected to the switch unit SU6 of the connection unit CU6 via the other of the main bus bars 104 and the other of the main bus bars 103.

[0028] Here, adjacent switch units SU1 to SU10 are mechanically coupled by a main bus bar 102, thereby integrating multiple connection units CU2 to CU6 and forming a base plate 101 in which multiple plates 110 (see Figure 3) are integrated.

[0029] FIG. 2 is a circuit diagram showing the circuit configuration of the power storage system 1 shown in FIG. 1. As shown in this diagram, the power storage system 1 includes n (n is an integer of 2 or more, and is 10 in this embodiment) switch units SU1 to SU10 provided for each of the storage battery modules M1 to M10. Each of the switch units SU1 to SU10 includes a bypass line BL and switches S1 and S2. The bypass line BL is a power line that bypasses each of the storage battery modules M1 to M10. The switch S1 is provided on the bypass line BL. This switch S1 is, for example, a semiconductor switch, a mechanical switch, or a relay. The switch S2 is provided on the main power line PL between the positive electrode of each of the storage battery modules M1 to M10 and one end of the bypass line BL. This switch S2 is, for example, a semiconductor switch, a mechanical switch, or a relay.

[0030] When switch S1 is turned OFF and switch S2 is turned ON in all switch units SU1 to SU10, all storage battery modules M1 to M10 are connected in series to the power converter 130 and an external system (not shown). On the other hand, when switch S2 is turned OFF and switch S1 is turned ON in any of switch units SU1 to SU10, the storage battery module M1 to M10 corresponding to that switch unit SU1 to SU10 is bypassed.

[0031] The switch units SU1 to SU10 are connected to a BMS 150 (see FIG. 1). The BMS 150 monitors and controls each of the storage battery modules M1 to M10, and controls the ON / OFF of the switches S1, S2 of each of the switch units SU1 to SU10.

[0032] Here, one end of switch S2 is electrically connected to connection terminal 108, which is electrically and mechanically connected to sub-bus bar 105, which is electrically and mechanically connected to the positive terminal P of the storage battery modules M1 to M10. Also, one end of switch S1 is electrically connected to connection terminal 109, which is electrically and mechanically connected to sub-bus bar 106, which is electrically and mechanically connected to the negative terminal N of the storage battery modules M1 to M10.

[0033] Furthermore, the switch units SU1 to SU10 adjacent to each other in the connection direction of the storage battery modules M1 to M10 are electrically and mechanically connected by the main bus bar 102. As described above, the storage battery modules M5 and M6 are electrically connected via the main bus bars 103 and 104 and the service plug 140.

[0034] As described above, the terminal distances of the storage battery modules M1 to M10 are not the same. Therefore, the mechanical connection position between the positive terminal P and the sub-bus bar 105 differs for each of the storage battery modules M1 to M10 depending on the terminal distances of the storage battery modules M1 to M10. Furthermore, the mechanical connection position between the negative terminal N and the sub-bus bar 106 differs for each of the storage battery modules M1 to M10 depending on the terminal distances of the storage battery modules M1 to M10.

[0035] Fig. 3 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the power storage system 1 shown in Fig. 1. As shown in this figure, the sub-bus bars 105, 106 are provided on a plate 110. The plate 110 is formed with four elongated holes 110H (see Fig. 6), through which the positive electrode terminal P or the negative electrode terminal N of each of the storage battery modules M1 to M10 is inserted. The elongated holes 110H extend along straight lines connecting the positive electrode terminal P and the negative electrode terminal N of each of the storage battery modules M1 to M10. Metal collars 113 (see Fig. 6) are fitted into the elongated holes 110H. The sub-bus bars 105, 106 are provided on the metal collars 113.

[0036] The sub-bus bars 105, 106 are long conductive plate members extending along a straight line connecting the positive electrode terminal P and the negative electrode terminal N of each of the storage battery modules M1 to M10. The sub-bus bars 105, 106 are formed with elongated holes 105H, 106H (see FIG. 5) extending along the straight line connecting the positive electrode terminal P and the negative electrode terminal N of each of the storage battery modules M1 to M10. The positive electrode terminal P is inserted into the elongated hole 105H of the sub-bus bar 105, and the negative electrode terminal N is inserted into the elongated hole 106H of the sub-bus bar 106.

[0037] The positive terminal P and the negative terminal N are male screws. The positive terminal P protrudes onto the plate 110 through the elongated hole 105H of the sub-bus bar 105, and the sub-bus bar 105 and the positive terminal P are electrically and mechanically connected by fastening the positive terminal P to a nut NT (see FIG. 6). The negative terminal N protrudes onto the plate 110 through the elongated hole 106H of the sub-bus bar 106, and the sub-bus bar 106 and the negative terminal N are electrically and mechanically connected by fastening the negative terminal N to a nut NT (see FIG. 6).

[0038] As described above, the inter-terminal distances of the storage battery modules M1 to M10 are not the same. Therefore, the distance between the positive electrode terminal P and the connection terminal 108 and the distance between the negative electrode terminal N and the connection terminal 109 differ among the storage battery modules M1 to M10. For example, as shown in the figure, in the storage battery modules M5 and M6, which have longer inter-terminal distances than the other storage battery modules M1 to M4 and M7 to M10, the distance between the positive electrode terminal P and the connection terminal 108 and the distance between the negative electrode terminal N and the connection terminal 109 are longer than those of the other storage battery modules M1 to M4 and M7 to M10.

[0039] Here, the mechanical connection position between the connection terminal 108 and the sub-bus bar 105 by fastening is set at one longitudinal end of the sub-bus bar 105, and the mechanical connection position between the positive terminal P and the sub-bus bar 105 by fastening is set at the other longitudinal end of the sub-bus bar 105. In the storage battery modules M5 and M6 having the longest inter-terminal distance, the mechanical connection position between the positive terminal P and the sub-bus bar 105 is set at the other longitudinal end of the sub-bus bar 105. In contrast, in the storage battery modules M1 to M4 and M7 to M10 having relatively short inter-terminal distances, the mechanical connection position between the positive terminal P and the sub-bus bar 105 is set closer to the center in the longitudinal direction of the sub-bus bar 105 than in the storage battery modules M5 and M6.

[0040] Similarly, the mechanical connection position between the connection terminal 109 and the sub-bus bar 106 due to fastening is set at one longitudinal end of the sub-bus bar 106, and the mechanical connection position between the negative terminal N and the sub-bus bar 106 due to fastening is set at the other longitudinal end of the sub-bus bar 106. In the storage battery modules M5 and M6 having the longest inter-terminal distance, the mechanical connection position between the negative terminal N and the sub-bus bar 106 is set at the other longitudinal end of the sub-bus bar 106. In contrast, in the storage battery modules M1 to M4 and M7 to M10 having relatively short inter-terminal distances, the mechanical connection position between the negative terminal N and the sub-bus bar 106 is set closer to the longitudinal center of the sub-bus bar 106 than in the storage battery modules M5 and M6.

[0041] Fig. 4 is a plan view showing the switch units SU1 to SU10 shown in Fig. 1. As shown in this figure, the switch units SU1 to SU10 include connection terminals 108, 109, 111, and 112.

[0042] Connection terminal 108 is connected to one end of switch S2 via a power line PL. Connection terminal 109 is connected to one end of switch S1 via a power line PL and a bypass line BL, and is connected to connection terminal 112 via the power line PL. Connection terminal 111 is connected to the other end of switch S1 via the power line PL and a bypass line BL, and is connected to the other end of switch S2 via the power line PL. Connection terminal 112 is connected to one end of switch S1 via the power line PL and a bypass line BL.

[0043] The connection terminal 108 is electrically and mechanically connected to one longitudinal end of the sub-bus bar 105 (see FIG. 1) by fastening, and the connection terminal 109 is electrically and mechanically connected to one longitudinal end of the sub-bus bar 106 (see FIG. 1) by fastening.

[0044] The connection terminal 111 is electrically and mechanically connected to the main bus bar 102 (see FIG. 1) by fastening, and the connection terminal 112 is electrically and mechanically connected to another main bus bar 102 by fastening.

[0045] Fig. 5 is a plan view showing the main bus bar 102 and the sub-bus bars 105 and 106 shown in Fig. 1. As shown in this figure, round holes 102H are formed at both longitudinal ends of the main bus bar 102. One of the round holes 102H is a hole through which a screw (bolt) is inserted to fasten the main bus bar 102 to the connection terminal 111 (see Fig. 4), and the other round hole 102H is a hole through which a screw is inserted to fasten the main bus bar 102 to the connection terminal 112 (see Fig. 4).

[0046] On the other hand, the sub-bus bar 105 has an elongated hole 105H formed therein, extending from one longitudinal end to the other longitudinal end of the sub-bus bar 105. A screw (in this embodiment, the positive terminal P itself) that fastens the connection terminal 108 (see FIG. 4) and the positive terminal P (see FIG. 3) together is inserted into this elongated hole 105H, and the positive terminal P is inserted into this elongated hole 105H. The sub-bus bar 106 also has an elongated hole 106H that extends from one longitudinal end to the other longitudinal end of the sub-bus bar 106. A screw (in this embodiment, the negative terminal N itself) that fastens the connection terminal 109 (see FIG. 4) and the negative terminal N (see FIG. 3) together is inserted into this elongated hole 106H.

[0047] Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing the connection structure between the storage battery module M5 and the sub-bus bars 105 and 106 shown in Fig. 1. This drawing shows a cross section passing through the central axis between the positive terminal P and the negative terminal N of the storage battery module M5.

[0048] As described above, a pair of elongated holes 110H are formed in the plate 110, and metal collars 113 are fitted into the respective holes. The metal collars 113 are annular members that fit into the elongated holes 110H, and reinforce the periphery of the elongated holes 110H of the plate 110. The pair of metal collars 113 are insulated from each other by the insulating plate 110.

[0049] The shape and dimensions of the elongated holes 105H, 106H of the sub-bus bars 105, 106 are the same as the shape and dimensions of the opening in the metal collar 113. A positive terminal P is inserted through the opening in the metal collar 113, the elongated hole 105H of the sub-bus bar 105, and a washer W. The positive terminal P is fastened to the sub-bus bar 105 by a nut NT at the other longitudinal end of the sub-bus bar 105. A negative terminal N is inserted through the opening in the metal collar 113, the elongated hole 106H of the sub-bus bar 106, and a washer W. The negative terminal N is fastened to the sub-bus bar 106 by a nut NT at the other longitudinal end of the sub-bus bar 106. The sub-bus bars 105 and 106 are insulated from each other by an insulating plate 110.

[0050] The tip of the connection terminal 108 is placed on one longitudinal end of the sub-bus bar 105. A bolt B is inserted through a round hole 108H (see FIG. 4) of the connection terminal 108 and an elongated hole 105H of the sub-bus bar 105. The tip of the connection terminal 108 and the one longitudinal end of the sub-bus bar 105 are fastened together by the bolt B and a nut NT.

[0051] The tip of the connection terminal 109 is placed over one longitudinal end of the sub-bus bar 106. A bolt B is inserted through a round hole 109H (see FIG. 4) of the connection terminal 109 and an elongated hole 106H of the sub-bus bar 106. The tip of the connection terminal 109 and one longitudinal end of the sub-bus bar 106 are fastened together by the bolt B and a nut NT.

[0052] As described above, the storage battery connection device 100 according to this embodiment connects in series multiple types of storage battery modules M1 to M10 with different inter-terminal distances. The storage battery connection device 100 includes power lines PL that conduct electricity between adjacent storage battery modules M1 to M10, and the power lines PL include a main bus bar 102 and a sub-bus bar 105. The main bus bar 102 is electrically connected to the positive electrode terminal P of one of the adjacent storage battery modules M1 to M10 and the negative electrode terminal N of the other of the adjacent storage battery modules M1 to M10. On the other hand, the sub-bus bar 105 is electrically connected to the main bus bar 102, and is electrically and mechanically connected to the positive electrode terminal P of one of the adjacent storage battery modules M1 to M10.

[0053] Here, the mechanical connection position between the sub-bus bar 105 and the positive terminal P is configured to be adjustable according to the inter-terminal distance of the storage battery modules M1 to M10. This makes it possible to connect multiple types of storage battery modules M1 to M10 with different inter-terminal distances in series by adjusting the mechanical connection position between the sub-bus bar 105 and the positive terminal P, rather than by adjusting the length of the main bus bar 102. Therefore, in the storage battery connection device 100 that connects multiple types of storage battery modules M1 to M10 with different inter-terminal distances in series, it is possible to promote the use of standardized components for the main bus bar 102 that connects the storage battery modules M1 to M10.

[0054] Furthermore, in the storage battery connection device 100 according to this embodiment, the sub-bus bar 106 is electrically connected to the main bus bar 102, and is electrically and mechanically connected to the other negative electrode terminal N of the adjacent storage battery modules M1 to M10.

[0055] Here, the mechanical connection position between the sub-bus bar 106 and the negative terminal N is configured to be adjustable according to the inter-terminal distance of the storage battery modules M1 to M10. This makes it possible to connect multiple types of storage battery modules M1 to M10 having different inter-terminal distances in series by adjusting the mechanical connection position between the sub-bus bar 105 and the positive terminal P and the mechanical connection position between the sub-bus bar 106 and the negative terminal N, rather than by adjusting the length of the main bus bar 102. Therefore, compared to the case where only the mechanical connection position between the sub-bus bar 105 and the positive terminal P is adjusted, it is possible to accommodate a wider range of differences in inter-terminal distances of the storage battery modules M1 to M10.

[0056] The sub-bus bar 105 also has an elongated hole 105H that extends along a straight line connecting the positive terminal P and the negative terminal N, and is connected to the positive terminal P through the elongated hole 105H. This makes it possible to adjust the mechanical connection position between the sub-bus bar 105 and the positive terminal P in the longitudinal direction of the elongated hole 105H.

[0057] The sub-bus bar 106 also has an elongated hole 106H that extends along a straight line connecting the positive terminal P and the negative terminal N, and is connected to the negative terminal N through the elongated hole 106H. This makes it possible to adjust the mechanical connection position between the sub-bus bar 106 and the negative terminal N in the longitudinal direction of the elongated hole 106H.

[0058] The battery connection device 100 according to this embodiment also includes a switch S2 that electrically connects or disconnects the positive terminal P and the main bus bar 102. The battery connection device 100 also includes a bypass line BL that electrically connects adjacent main bus bars 102, and a switch S1 that is provided on the bypass line BL and electrically connects or disconnects adjacent main bus bars 102. As a result, by turning switch S1 OFF and switch S2 ON, the corresponding battery modules M1 to M10 can be placed in a connected state. On the other hand, by turning switch S1 ON and switch S2 OFF, the corresponding battery modules M1 to M10 can be placed in a bypass state.

[0059] The storage battery connection device 100 according to this embodiment also includes a plate 110 on which the main bus bar 102 and the sub-bus bars 105, 106 are provided. The plate 110 is formed with an elongated hole 110H for mechanically connecting the positive terminal P and the sub-bus bar 105, and an elongated hole 110H for mechanically connecting the negative terminal N and the sub-bus bar 106. This makes it possible to connect multiple types of storage battery modules M1 to M10 with different inter-terminal distances in series without using a wire harness.

[0060] Fig. 7 is a plan view showing a modification of the sub-bus bar 105 shown in Fig. 5. The configuration of the sub-bus bar 106 shown in Fig. 5 may also be modified in a similar manner.

[0061] The sub-bus bar 105A of the first modified example has a plurality of elongated holes 105H' (for example, two as shown in the figure). Each elongated hole 105H' extends in the longitudinal direction of the sub-bus bar 105A. The plurality of elongated holes 105H' are arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction of the sub-bus bar 105A. A positive terminal P (see FIG. 6) is inserted into one of the elongated holes 105H', and a bolt B (see FIG. 6) for fastening a connection terminal 108 (see FIG. 6) is inserted into the other elongated hole 105H'.

[0062] The sub-bus bar 105B, which is the second modified example, has a plurality of holes 105H" (three or more, for example, seven as shown in the figure) formed therein. The plurality of holes 105H" are arranged in a line in the longitudinal direction of the sub-bus bar 105B. A positive terminal P is inserted into any one of the holes 105H", and a bolt B for fastening the connection terminal 108 is inserted into any other one of the holes 105H".

[0063] Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the connection structure between the storage battery module M5 and the sub-bus bars 105, 106 shown in Fig. 6. This figure shows a cross section passing through the central axis between the positive electrode terminal P and the negative electrode terminal N of the storage battery module M5. Note that the connection structures between the other storage battery modules M1 to M4, M6 to M10 and the sub-bus bars 105, 106 may also be modified in a similar manner. Furthermore, the same reference numerals are used for configurations similar to those in the above-described embodiment, and the description of the above-described embodiment is incorporated herein.

[0064] The positive electrode terminal P and the negative electrode terminal N of the storage battery module M5 of this modified example are female threads. The upper end surfaces of the positive electrode terminal P and the negative electrode terminal N are in contact with the lower surface of the metal collar 113. The positive electrode terminal P and the negative electrode terminal N may be inserted into openings in the metal collar 113.

[0065] Bolt B is inserted through washer W, elongated hole 105H of sub-bus bar 105, and opening in metal collar 113, and is screwed into positive terminal P. Positive terminal P is fastened to sub-bus bar 105 by bolt B at the other longitudinal end of sub-bus bar 105. Bolt B is also inserted through washer W, elongated hole 106H of sub-bus bar 106, and opening in metal collar 113, and is screwed into negative terminal N. Negative terminal N is fastened to sub-bus bar 106 by bolt B at the other longitudinal end of sub-bus bar 106.

[0066] 9 is an enlarged perspective view showing a part of a power storage system 1A including a storage battery connection device 100A according to another embodiment of the present invention. Note that the same reference numerals are used to designate the same components as those in the above-described embodiment, and the description of the above-described embodiment is incorporated herein by reference.

[0067] 9, the storage battery connection device 100A of this embodiment includes a base plate 101A. The base plate 101A is made of a single long insulating plate. Main bus bars 102, 103, and 104, sub-bus bars 105 and 106, switch units SU1 to SU10, etc. are provided on the base plate 101A.

[0068] The present invention has been described above based on the above-mentioned embodiment, but the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment, and modifications may be made within the scope of the spirit of the present invention, and publicly known or well-known technologies may be combined as appropriate.

[0069] For example, in the above-described embodiment, not only the mechanical connection position between the positive terminal P and the sub-bus bar 105 but also the mechanical connection position between the negative terminal N and the sub-bus bar 106 can be adjusted. However, it is sufficient if at least one of the mechanical connection position between the positive terminal P and the bus bar and the mechanical connection position between the negative terminal N and the bus bar can be adjusted.

[0070] In the above-described embodiment, the bypass line BL and the switches S1 and S2 are provided, but these are not essential. For example, if the deterioration state of the storage battery modules M1 to M10 is uniform, it is possible not to provide the bypass line BL and the switches S1 and S2.

[0071] In the above-described embodiment, the switch S2 is provided between the connection terminal 108 and the main bus bar 102 so as to electrically connect / disconnect the positive terminal P and the main bus bar 102. However, the switch S2 may be provided between the connection terminal 109 and the subsequent main bus bar 102 so as to electrically connect / disconnect the negative terminal N and the subsequent main bus bar 102.

[0072] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the row of battery modules M1 to M5 and the row of battery modules M6 to M10 are arranged in parallel and are housed directly below the base plate 101, 101A. Furthermore, the battery modules M1 to M10 are connected to the battery connection devices 100, 100A at both widthwise ends of the base plate 101, 101A. However, the battery modules M1 to M10 may be arranged in a row and connected to the battery connection devices 100, 100A at one widthwise end of the base plate 101, 101A. In this case, it is not necessary for the battery modules M1 to M10 to be housed directly below the base plate 101, 101A; the battery modules M1 to M10 may extend beyond the other widthwise end of the base plate 101, 101A. [Explanation of symbols]

[0073] 1: Energy storage system 1A: Energy storage system 100: Battery connection device 100A: Battery connection device 101: Base plate (plate) 101A: Base plate (plate) 102: Main bus bar (first bus bar) 105: Sub-bus bar (second bus bar) 105H: Long hole 105H': Long hole 105H”:hole 106: Sub-bus bar (third bus bar) 106H: Long hole 110: Plate 110H: Long hole (opening) BL: Bypass line (bypass route) M1 to M10: Battery modules (batteries) N: Negative terminal P:Positive terminal PL: Power line (conductive path) S1: Switch (second switch) S2: Switch (first switch)

Claims

1. A battery connection device that connects in series multiple types of storage batteries with different distances between their positive and negative terminals, a conductive path for electrically connecting adjacent storage batteries; The conductive path is a first bus bar electrically connected to the positive electrode terminal of one of the storage batteries and the negative electrode terminal of the other storage battery; a second bus bar electrically connected to the first bus bar and electrically and mechanically connected to one of the positive electrode terminal and the negative electrode terminal; a third bus bar electrically connected to the first bus bar and electrically and mechanically connected to the other of the positive electrode terminal and the negative electrode terminal; Equipped with a mechanical connection position between the second bus bar and one of the positive electrode terminal and the negative electrode terminal is adjustable according to a distance between the positive electrode terminal and the negative electrode terminal; a mechanical connection position between the third bus bar and the other of the positive electrode terminal and the negative electrode terminal is adjustable according to the distance between the positive electrode terminal and the negative electrode terminal.

2. 2. The battery connection device according to claim 1, wherein the second bus bar has a long hole extending along a straight line connecting the positive terminal and the negative terminal, or a plurality of holes aligned along a straight line connecting the positive terminal and the negative terminal, and is connected to one of the positive terminal and the negative terminal through the long hole or the hole.

3. 2. The battery connection device according to claim 1, wherein the third bus bar has a long hole extending along a straight line connecting the positive terminal and the negative terminal, or a plurality of holes aligned along a straight line connecting the positive terminal and the negative terminal, and is connected to the other of the positive terminal and the negative terminal through the long hole or the hole.

4. A battery connection device for connecting in series multiple types of batteries with different distances between their positive and negative terminals, a conductive path for electrically connecting adjacent storage batteries; The conductive path is a first bus bar electrically connected to the positive electrode terminal of one of the storage batteries and the negative electrode terminal of the other storage battery; a second bus bar electrically connected to the first bus bar and electrically and mechanically connected to one of the positive electrode terminal and the negative electrode terminal; Equipped with The conductive path is a first switch that electrically connects or disconnects the positive electrode terminal or the negative electrode terminal to the first bus bar; a bypass path electrically connecting the adjacent first bus bars; a second switch provided in the bypass path and configured to electrically connect or disconnect the adjacent first bus bars; A battery connection device comprising:

5. A battery connection device for connecting in series multiple types of batteries with different distances between their positive and negative terminals, a conductive path for electrically connecting adjacent storage batteries; The conductive path is a first bus bar electrically connected to the positive electrode terminal of one of the storage batteries and the negative electrode terminal of the other storage battery; a second bus bar electrically connected to the first bus bar and electrically and mechanically connected to one of the positive electrode terminal and the negative electrode terminal; Equipped with a plate on which the conductive path is provided; The plate has openings formed therein for mechanically connecting the positive and negative terminals to the conductive paths.

6. a plurality of types of storage batteries each having a different distance between a positive electrode terminal and a negative electrode terminal; a battery connection device that connects a plurality of types of the storage batteries in series; A power storage system comprising: The storage battery connection device is a conductive path for electrically connecting adjacent storage batteries; The conductive path is a first bus bar electrically connected to the positive electrode terminal of one of the storage batteries and the negative electrode terminal of the other storage battery; a second bus bar electrically connected to the first bus bar and electrically and mechanically connected to one of the positive electrode terminal and the negative electrode terminal; a third bus bar electrically connected to the first bus bar and electrically and mechanically connected to the other of the positive electrode terminal and the negative electrode terminal; Equipped with a mechanical connection position between the second bus bar and one of the positive electrode terminal and the negative electrode terminal is adjustable according to a distance between the positive electrode terminal and the negative electrode terminal; a mechanical connection position between the third bus bar and the other of the positive electrode terminal and the negative electrode terminal is adjustable according to a distance between the positive electrode terminal and the negative electrode terminal.

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