Secondary battery manufacturing method

Abstract

To efficiently accommodate a flat electrode body into a case while preventing the electrode body from being damaged.SOLUTION: A manufacturing method of a secondary battery includes the steps of: preparing a case body having a first opening; fabricating a flat electrode body including a positive electrode plate and a negative electrode plate; inserting the electrode body into the case body through the first opening; and, after inserting the electrode body into the case body, sealing the first opening with a first sealing plate. The step of inserting the electrode body into the case body includes: holding the electrode body with a holding member; inserting the electrode body into the case body together with the holding member; and pulling out the holding member from the base body while leaving the electrode body inside the case body.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 17

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present technology relates to a method for manufacturing a secondary battery. [Background technology]

[0002] Japanese Patent No. 4537353 (Patent Document 1) shows a rectangular secondary battery in which an electrode group (25) is housed in a case (14) having openings (14a, 14b) at both ends, and electrode terminals (21, 23) are attached to cap plates (33, 33') that seal the openings (14a, 14b).

[0003] In addition, Patent Publication No. 2021-048141 (Patent Document 2) and Patent Publication No. 2016-103425 (Patent Document 3) disclose that the separator interposed between the positive electrode plate and the negative electrode plate is folded zigzag and arranged so as to surround the outer periphery of the stack of positive electrode plate and negative electrode plate. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 4537353 [Patent Document 2] Patent Publication No. 2021-048141 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-103425 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] It is necessary to efficiently house the flat electrode body in the case while suppressing damage to the electrode body.

[0006] An object of the present technology is to provide a secondary battery that can meet such demands and a method for manufacturing the same. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The present technology provides the following method for manufacturing a secondary battery.

[0008] [1] A method for manufacturing a secondary battery, comprising the steps of: preparing a case body having a first opening; fabricating a flat electrode body including a positive electrode plate and a negative electrode plate; inserting the electrode body into the case body through the first opening; and sealing the first opening with a first sealing plate after inserting the electrode body into the case body, wherein the step of inserting the electrode body into the case body includes holding the electrode body with a holding member, inserting the electrode body into the case body together with the holding member, and pulling out the holding member from the case body while leaving the electrode body in the case body.

[0009] [2] The method for manufacturing a secondary battery according to [1], wherein the length of the case body in a direction perpendicular to the opening surface of the first opening is 30 cm or more.

[0010] [3] A method for manufacturing a secondary battery described in [1] or [2], wherein the electrode body is inserted into the case body along a first direction, and when the electrode body is inserted into the case body, the tip of the holding member reaches a distance from the first opening that is 30 percent or more of the length of the case body in the first direction.

[0011] [4] The method for manufacturing a secondary battery according to any one of [1] to [3], wherein the electrode body is a laminated electrode body in which a plurality of positive electrode plates and a plurality of negative electrode plates are stacked with separators interposed therebetween.

[0012] [5] A method for manufacturing a secondary battery described in any one of [1] to [4], wherein when the holding member is pulled out from the case body, the case body is tilted so that a direction perpendicular to the opening surface of the first opening intersects obliquely with the horizontal direction.

[0013] [6] A method for manufacturing a secondary battery according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a step of covering at least a portion of the electrode body with an insulating sheet before it is inserted into the case body, and when the electrode body is inserted into the case body, the electrode body is held by the holding member via the insulating sheet. [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] According to this technology, the electrode body is held by a holding member, and the electrode body is inserted into the case body together with the holding member.Then, the holding member is pulled out of the case body while leaving the electrode body inside the case body, thereby enabling the electrode body to be efficiently stored in the case while minimizing damage to the flat electrode body. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a front view of the secondary battery. [Figure 2] 2 is a diagram showing the secondary battery shown in FIG. 1 as viewed from the direction of arrow II. [Figure 3] 3 is a diagram showing the secondary battery shown in FIG. 1 as viewed from the direction of arrow III. [Figure 4] 4 is a diagram showing the secondary battery shown in FIG. 1 as viewed from the direction of arrow IV. FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an electrode assembly taken out from the assembly shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the electrode body shown in FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a front view showing a negative electrode blank before being formed into a negative electrode plate. [Figure 8] 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line VIII-VIII of the negative electrode plate shown in FIG. 7. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a front view showing a negative electrode plate formed from a negative electrode original plate. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a front view showing a positive electrode plate before it is formed into a positive electrode plate. [Figure 11] 11 is a cross-sectional view of the positive electrode plate taken along the line XI-XI in FIG. 10. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a front view showing a positive electrode plate formed from a positive electrode original plate. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a connection structure between a negative electrode tab group and a negative electrode current collector. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a connection structure between a positive electrode tab group and a positive electrode current collector. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 is a diagram (part 1) showing a state in which the electrode body is held by a holding member. [Figure 16] FIG. 2 is a diagram (part 2) showing a state in which the electrode body is held by a holding member. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram (part 1) showing the process of inserting the electrode assembly held by the holding member into the case. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram (part 2) showing the process of inserting the electrode assembly held by the holding member into the case. [Figure 19] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the electrode body housed in the case. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the cover member shown in FIG. [Figure 21] FIG. 1 is a diagram (part 1) showing an example of the layout of a holding member that holds an electrode body. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a diagram (part 2) showing an example of the layout of a holding member that holds an electrode body. [Figure 23] FIG. 1 is a diagram (part 1) showing an example of a cross section of a holding member. [Figure 24] FIG. 10 is a diagram (part 2) showing an example of a cross section of a holding member. [Figure 25] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing an electrode body provided with tape. [Figure 26] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing an electrode body provided with an electrode body holder. [Figure 27] FIG. 1 is a diagram (part 1) showing an example of a cross section of a tape. [Figure 28] FIG. 2 is a diagram (part 2) showing an example of a cross section of a tape. [Figure 29] FIG. 3 is a diagram (part 3) showing an example of a cross section of a tape. [Figure 30] FIG. 2 is a flow chart showing each step of a method for manufacturing a secondary battery. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present technology will be described. Note that the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference characters, and description thereof may not be repeated.

[0017] In the embodiments described below, when numbers, amounts, etc. are mentioned, the scope of the present technology is not necessarily limited to those numbers, amounts, etc., unless otherwise specified. Furthermore, in the following embodiments, each component is not necessarily essential to the present technology, unless otherwise specified. Furthermore, the present technology is not necessarily limited to those that achieve all of the effects and advantages mentioned in the present embodiments.

[0018] In this specification, the terms "comprise," "include," and "have" are open-ended. That is, when a certain feature is included, other features may or may not be included.

[0019] Furthermore, when geometric terms and terms expressing positional and directional relationships are used in this specification, such as "parallel," "orthogonal," "45° diagonal," "coaxial," and "along," these terms allow for manufacturing errors and slight variations. When terms expressing relative positional relationships, such as "upper side" and "lower side," are used in this specification, these terms are used to indicate relative positional relationships in a single state, and the relative positional relationships can be reversed or rotated to any angle depending on the installation direction of each mechanism (for example, by turning the entire mechanism upside down).

[0020] In this specification, the term "battery" is not limited to lithium-ion batteries, but may include other batteries such as nickel-metal hydride batteries and sodium-ion batteries. In this specification, the term "electrode" may collectively refer to positive and negative electrodes. Furthermore, the term "electrode plate" may collectively refer to positive and negative plates.

[0021] (Overall battery configuration) Fig. 1 is a front view of a secondary battery 1 according to the present embodiment. Fig. 2 to Fig. 4 are views of the secondary battery 1 shown in Fig. 1 as viewed from the directions of arrows II, III, and IV, respectively.

[0022] The secondary battery 1 can be mounted in an electric vehicle (BEV: Battery Electric Vehicle), a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV: Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle), a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV: Hybrid Electric Vehicle), etc. However, the use of the secondary battery 1 is not limited to being mounted in a vehicle.

[0023] 1 to 4, the secondary battery 1 includes an exterior body 100 and an electrode assembly 200. The exterior body 100 includes a case body 110, a sealing plate 121 (first sealing plate), and a sealing plate 122 (second sealing plate).

[0024] In this specification, the X-axis direction (first direction) shown in Figures 1 to 4 may be referred to as the "width direction" of the secondary battery 1 or the case body 110, the Y-axis direction (second direction) may be referred to as the "thickness direction" of the secondary battery 1 or the case body 110, and the Z-axis direction (third direction) may be referred to as the "height direction" of the secondary battery 1 or the case body 110.

[0025] When configuring a battery pack including the secondary batteries 1, multiple secondary batteries 1 are stacked in their thickness direction. The stacked secondary batteries 1 may be constrained in the stacking direction (Y-axis direction) by a constraining member to form a battery module, or the battery pack may be directly supported on the side surface of the battery pack case without using a constraining member.

[0026] The case body 110 is made of a cylindrical, preferably rectangular, member. This results in a rectangular secondary battery 1. The case body 110 is made of metal. Specifically, the case body 110 is made of aluminum, an aluminum alloy, iron, an iron alloy, or the like.

[0027] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, sealing plates 121, 122 are provided at both ends of the case body. The case body 110 can be formed into a rectangular tube shape, for example, by abutting the edges of bent plate-like members (joint 110A shown in Figure 2) and joining them together (for example, by laser welding). The corners of the "rectangular tube" may be rounded.

[0028] In this embodiment, the case body 110 is formed so that it is longer in the width direction (X-axis direction) of the secondary battery 1 than in the thickness direction (Y-axis direction) and height direction (Z-axis direction) of the secondary battery 1. The dimension (width) of the case body 110 in the X-axis direction is preferably about 30 cm or more. This allows for the construction of a relatively large (high-capacity) secondary battery 1. The dimension (height) of the case body 110 in the Z-axis direction is preferably about 20 cm or less, more preferably about 15 cm or less, and even more preferably about 10 cm or less. This allows for the construction of a relatively low-height secondary battery 1, which improves, for example, the mountability in a vehicle.

[0029] 3, an opening 111 (first opening) is provided at one end of the case body 110. The opening 111 is sealed by a sealing plate 121. The sealing plate 121 is provided with a negative electrode terminal 131 (first electrode terminal), a liquid inlet hole 141, and a gas release valve 151. The positions of the negative electrode terminal 131, the liquid inlet hole 141, and the gas release valve 151 can be changed as appropriate. The opening 111 and the sealing plate 121 have a substantially rectangular shape with the Y-axis direction as the short side direction and the Z-axis direction as the long side direction.

[0030] 4, an opening 112 (second opening) is provided at one end of the case body 110. The opening 112 is sealed by a sealing plate 122. The sealing plate 122 is provided with a positive electrode terminal 132 (second electrode terminal), a liquid inlet hole 142, and a gas release valve 152. The positions of the positive electrode terminal 132, the liquid inlet hole 142, and the gas release valve 152 can be changed as appropriate. The opening 112 and the sealing plate 122 have a substantially rectangular shape with the Y-axis direction as the short side direction and the Z-axis direction as the long side direction.

[0031] The sealing plates 121 and 122 are made of metal. Specifically, the sealing plates 121 and 122 are made of aluminum, an aluminum alloy, iron, an iron alloy, or the like.

[0032] The negative electrode terminal 131 is electrically connected to the negative electrode of the electrode assembly 200. The positive electrode terminal 132 is electrically connected to the positive electrode of the electrode assembly 200.

[0033] The negative electrode terminal 131 is made of a conductive material (more specifically, a metal), and may be made of, for example, copper or a copper alloy. The outer surface of the negative electrode terminal 131 may be provided with a portion or layer made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0034] The positive electrode terminal 132 is made of a conductive material (more specifically, a metal), and may be made of, for example, aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0035] The liquid inlet holes 141 and 142 are sealed with a sealing member (not shown), which may be, for example, a blind rivet or other metal member.

[0036] Gas exhaust valves 151 and 152 break when the pressure inside exterior body 100 reaches or exceeds a predetermined value, and exhaust gas inside exterior body 100 to the outside.

[0037] (Configuration of electrode body 200) Fig. 5 is a diagram showing the electrode assembly 200 housed in the exterior housing 100. Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the electrode assembly 200. The electrode assembly 200 is housed in the exterior housing 100 so that its longitudinal direction is parallel to the X-axis direction.

[0038] The electrode assembly 200 includes a negative electrode tab group 210A (first electrode tab group) provided at an end (first end) on the sealing plate 121 side, and a positive electrode tab group 220A (second electrode tab group) provided at an end (second end) on the sealing plate 122 side. The negative electrode tab group 210A and the positive electrode tab group 220A are connected to the negative electrode plates 210 and the positive electrode plates 220, respectively, of the electrode assembly 200. The negative electrode tab group 210A and the positive electrode tab group 220A are formed so as to protrude from a main body portion of the electrode assembly 200 (a portion where positive electrode plates and negative electrode plates are stacked with a separator interposed between them) toward the sealing plates 121, 122, respectively.

[0039] The electrode assembly 200 is housed together with an electrolytic solution (electrolyte), not shown. The electrolytic solution (nonaqueous electrolytic solution) may be, for example, a nonaqueous solvent obtained by mixing ethylene carbonate (EC), ethyl methyl carbonate (EMC), and diethyl carbonate (DEC) in a volume ratio (25°C) of 30:30:40, in which LiPF is dissolved at a concentration of 1.2 mol / L. Note that a solid electrolyte may be used instead of the electrolytic solution.

[0040] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the electrode assembly 200 includes a negative electrode plate 210, a positive electrode plate 220, and a separator 230. The negative electrode plate 210 and the positive electrode plate 220 each have a main surface (a surface extending in the vertical direction in Figure 6) and an end surface (a surface extending in the horizontal direction in Figure 6). The main surface and the end surface intersect each other so as to be approximately perpendicular to each other. The main surfaces of the negative electrode plate 210 and the positive electrode plate 220 are stacked in the stacking direction (Y-axis direction).

[0041] The number of stacked negative electrode plates 210 and positive electrode plates 220 is not limited to that shown in Fig. 6. In one example, 30 or more negative electrode plates 210 and 30 or more positive electrode plates 220 are stacked.

[0042] The negative electrode plates 210 and the positive electrode plates 220 are stacked with a separator 230 interposed therebetween. The separator 230 has a first region 231, a second region 232, and a third region 233. The first region 231 is a region arranged around the outermost periphery of the electrode assembly 200 on one end face (first end face) of the negative electrode plates 210 and the positive electrode plates 220 (the lower side in FIG. 6). The second region 232 is a region folded zigzag along the multiple positive electrode plates 220 and the multiple negative electrode plates 210. The third region 233 is a region arranged around the outermost periphery of the electrode assembly 200 on the other end face (second end face) of the negative electrode plates 210 and the positive electrode plates 220 (the upper side in FIG. 6).

[0043] In the cross-sectional view of Figure 6, the first region 231, the second region 232, and the third region 233 of the separator 230 are composed of continuous strip-shaped insulating sheets, but the scope of the present technology is not limited to this, and for example, the first region 231 and the third region 233 (peripheral portions) and the second region 232 (laminated portion) may be composed of separate insulating sheets.

[0044] More specifically, for example, the second region 232 of the separator 230 may be formed from a rectangular or pouch-shaped insulating sheet, and a strip-shaped insulating sheet may be wrapped around (surround) the outer periphery of the electrode body 200 to form the first region 231 and the third region 233 of the separator 230. To secure the edge of the separator 230 wrapped around the outer periphery of the electrode body 200, tape may be used, adhesive may be used, or the separators 230 may be welded together.

[0045] In addition, the insulating sheet may be overlapped in the first region 231 and the third region 233, that is, the portion extending from the zigzag second region 232 may be wound around the outer periphery of the negative electrode plate 210 and the positive electrode plate 220 multiple times.

[0046] In one example, the separator 230 faces the inner circumferential surface of the case body 110 without any other member interposed therebetween. In this case, the separator 230 directly faces the inner circumferential surface of the case body 110 via only gas, only electrolytic solution, or only gas and electrolytic solution. However, the scope of the present technology is not limited to this, and other members such as an insulating electrode body holder may be provided between the separator 230 and the case body 110.

[0047] In this embodiment, a stacked electrode body 200 is exemplified, but the scope of the present technology is not limited to a stacked electrode body, and any flat electrode body may be used. For example, a wound electrode body may be used instead of the stacked electrode body. Also, an electrode body in which multiple wound electrode bodies are stacked may be used.

[0048] (Electrode plate configuration) FIG. 7 is a front view showing a negative electrode blank 210S before the negative electrode plate 210 (first electrode) is formed, FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII of the negative electrode blank 210S shown in FIG. 7, and FIG. 9 is a front view showing the negative electrode plate 210 formed from the negative electrode blank 210S.

[0049] The negative electrode plate 210 is manufactured by processing a negative electrode original plate 210S. As shown in Figures 7 and 8, the negative electrode original plate 210S includes a negative electrode core 211 and a negative electrode active material layer 212. The negative electrode core 211 is a copper foil or a copper alloy foil.

[0050] A negative electrode active material layer 212 is formed on both surfaces of the negative electrode substrate 211 except for one end portion. The negative electrode active material layer 212 is formed by applying a negative electrode active material layer slurry using a die coater.

[0051] The negative electrode active material layer slurry is prepared by kneading graphite as the negative electrode active material, styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) as binders, and water as a dispersion medium so that the mass ratio of graphite:SBR:CMC is approximately 98:1:1.

[0052] The negative electrode substrate 211 coated with the negative electrode active material layer slurry is dried to remove water contained in the negative electrode active material layer slurry, thereby forming the negative electrode active material layer 212. The negative electrode active material layer 212 is then compressed to form a negative electrode base plate 210S including the negative electrode substrate 211 and the negative electrode active material layer 212. The negative electrode base plate 210S is cut into a predetermined shape to form the negative electrode plate 210. The negative electrode base plate 210S can be cut by laser processing using energy beam irradiation, mold processing, cutter processing, or the like.

[0053] As shown in Fig. 9, a plurality of negative electrode tabs 210B each made of a negative electrode core 211 is provided at one end in the width direction of a negative electrode plate 210 formed from a negative electrode original plate 210S. When the negative electrode plates 210 are stacked, the plurality of negative electrode tabs 210B are stacked to form a negative electrode tab group 210A. Note that the shape of the negative electrode tabs 210B is not limited to the example shown in Fig. 9.

[0054] FIG. 10 is a front view showing a positive electrode plate 220S before the positive electrode plate 220 (second electrode) is formed, FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the positive electrode plate 220S shown in FIG. 10 taken along line XX, and FIG. 12 is a front view showing a positive electrode plate 220 formed from the positive electrode plate 220S.

[0055] The positive electrode plate 220 is manufactured by processing a positive electrode original plate 220S. As shown in Figures 10 and 11, the positive electrode original plate 220S includes a positive electrode core 221, a positive electrode active material layer 222, and a positive electrode protective layer 223. The positive electrode core 221 is an aluminum foil or an aluminum alloy foil.

[0056] A positive electrode active material layer 222 is formed on both surfaces of the positive electrode core 221 except for one end portion. The positive electrode active material layer 222 is formed on the positive electrode core 221 by applying a positive electrode active material layer slurry using a die coater.

[0057] The positive electrode active material layer slurry is prepared by kneading lithium nickel cobalt manganese composite oxide as the positive electrode active material, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVdF) as a binder, a carbon material as a conductive material, and N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) as a dispersion medium so that the mass ratio of lithium nickel cobalt manganese composite oxide:PVdF:carbon material is approximately 97.5:1:1.5.

[0058] The positive electrode protective layer 223 is in contact with the positive electrode core 221 and is formed on one end of the positive electrode active material layer 222 in the width direction. The positive electrode protective layer 223 is formed on the positive electrode core 221 by applying a positive electrode protective layer slurry using a die coater. The positive electrode protective layer 223 has a larger electrical resistance than the positive electrode active material layer 222.

[0059] The positive electrode protective layer slurry is prepared by kneading alumina powder, a carbon material as a conductive material, PVdF as a binder, and NMP as a dispersion medium so that the mass ratio of alumina powder:carbon material:PVdF is approximately 83:3:14.

[0060] The positive electrode substrate 221 coated with the positive electrode active material layer slurry and the positive electrode protective layer slurry is dried, and the NMP contained in the positive electrode active material layer slurry and the positive electrode protective layer slurry is removed, thereby forming the positive electrode active material layer 222 and the positive electrode protective layer 223. The positive electrode active material layer 222 is then compressed to form a positive electrode base plate 220S including the positive electrode substrate 221, the positive electrode active material layer 222, and the positive electrode protective layer 223. The positive electrode base plate 220S is cut into a predetermined shape to form the positive electrode plate 220. The positive electrode base plate 220S can be cut by laser processing using energy beam irradiation, mold processing, cutter processing, or the like.

[0061] As shown in Fig. 12, a plurality of positive electrode tabs 220B each made of a positive electrode core 221 is provided at one end in the width direction of a positive electrode plate 220 formed from a positive electrode original plate 220S. When the positive electrode plates 220 are stacked, the plurality of positive electrode tabs 220B are stacked to form a positive electrode tab group 220A. Note that the shape of the positive electrode tabs 220B is not limited to the example shown in Fig. 12.

[0062] The base of each of the positive electrode tabs 220B is provided with a positive electrode protective layer 223. The positive electrode protective layer 223 does not necessarily have to be provided at the base of the positive electrode tab 220B.

[0063] In a typical example, the thickness of the negative electrode tab 210B (one piece) is smaller than the thickness of the positive electrode tab 220B (one piece). In this case, the thickness of the negative electrode tab group 210A is smaller than the thickness of the positive electrode tab group 220A.

[0064] (Connection structure between electrode body 200 and current collector) 13 is a cross-sectional view of the connection structure between the negative electrode tab group 210A and the negative electrode current collector 310. As shown in FIG. 13, the negative electrode tab group 210A is joined to the negative electrode current collector 310 at a joint 310A. The joint 310A can be formed by, for example, ultrasonic welding, resistance welding, laser welding, or crimping. The joint 310A forms a conductive path between the negative electrode tab group 210A and the negative electrode terminal 131.

[0065] The negative electrode current collector 310 is connected to the negative electrode terminal 131 between the electrode body 200 and the sealing plate 121. The negative electrode current collector 310 includes a first conductive member 311 and a second conductive member 312. The first conductive member 311 and the second conductive member 312 are joined at a joint 313.

[0066] The negative electrode tab group 210A is joined to the first conductive member 311 of the negative electrode current collector 310 at a joint 310A. The first conductive member 311 is connected to the second conductive member 312 at a joint 313. The joint 313 can be formed by, for example, ultrasonic bonding, resistance welding, laser welding, caulking, or the like.

[0067] The first conductive member 311 and the second conductive member 312 are attached to the inner surface side of the sealing plate 121 via an insulating member 410 made of resin.

[0068] The negative electrode terminal 131 is attached to the sealing plate 121 via a resin insulating member 410A. The negative electrode terminal 131 is exposed to the outside of the sealing plate 121 and is provided so as to reach the second conductive member 312 of the negative electrode current collector 310 provided on the inside side of the sealing plate 121. The negative electrode terminal 131 and the second conductive member 312 can be connected by, for example, ultrasonic bonding, resistance welding, laser welding, or crimping. In the present embodiment, a through hole is provided in the second conductive member 312, the negative electrode terminal 131 is inserted into the through hole, the negative electrode terminal 131 is crimped onto the second conductive member 312, and then the crimped portion and the second conductive member 312 are welded at a joint 131A, thereby connecting the negative electrode terminal 131 and the second conductive member 312.

[0069] The assembly procedure for each component is as follows: first, the negative electrode terminal 131 and the second conductive member 312 are attached to the sealing plate 121 together with the insulating members 410 and 410A. Next, the first conductive member 311 connected to the electrode body 200 is attached to the second conductive member 312. At this time, the first conductive member 311 is placed on the insulating member 410 so that a portion of the first conductive member 311 overlaps the second conductive member 312. Next, the first conductive member 311 and the second conductive member 312 are welded together at the joint 313. Note that the insulating members 410 and 410A may be formed from a single member.

[0070] However, the negative electrode terminal 131 may be electrically connected to the sealing plate 121. Alternatively, the sealing plate 121 may serve as the negative electrode terminal 131.

[0071] Although FIG. 13 illustrates the negative electrode current collector 310 made up of two components (first conductive member 311 and second conductive member 312), the negative electrode current collector 310 may be made up of a single component.

[0072] 14 is a cross-sectional view of the connection structure between the positive electrode tab group 220A and the positive electrode current collector 320. As shown in FIG. 14, the positive electrode current collector 320 is provided on the inner surface side of the sealing plate 122 and is connected to the electrode assembly 200 and the positive electrode terminal 132. The positive electrode current collector 320 includes a first conductive member 321 (first component) and a second conductive member 322 (second component). The first conductive member 321 and the second conductive member 322 are joined at a joint 323. The first conductive member 321 and the second conductive member 322 are attached to the inner surface side of the sealing plate 122 via a resin insulating member 420.

[0073] The first conductive member 321 has a step portion 321A. The step portion 321A extends in the long side direction (Z-axis direction) of the rectangular sealing plate 122. As shown in FIG. 14 , in a region (first region) on one side (left side in FIG. 14 ) of the step portion 321A, the first conductive member 321 is provided so as to follow the sealing plate 122 and is joined to the positive electrode tab group 220A (joint portion 320A). In a region (second region) on the other side (right side in FIG. 14 ) of the step portion 321A, the first conductive member 321 is provided so as to overlap with the second conductive member 322.

[0074] The positive electrode tab group 220A is joined to a first conductive member 321 of the positive electrode current collector 320 at a joint 320A. The first conductive member 321 is connected to a second conductive member 322 at a joint 323. The joint 323 can be formed by, for example, ultrasonic bonding, resistance welding, laser welding, caulking, or the like.

[0075] The positive electrode terminal 132 is attached to the sealing plate 122 via a resin insulating member 420A. The positive electrode terminal 132 is exposed to the outside of the sealing plate 122 and is provided so as to reach the second conductive member 322 of the positive electrode current collector 320 provided on the inside side of the sealing plate 122. The positive electrode terminal 132 and the second conductive member 322 can be connected by, for example, ultrasonic bonding, resistance welding, laser welding, crimping, or the like. In the present embodiment, a through hole is provided in the second conductive member 322, the positive electrode terminal 132 is inserted into the through hole, the positive electrode terminal 132 is crimped onto the second conductive member 322, and then the crimped portion and the second conductive member 322 are welded at a joint 132A, thereby connecting the positive electrode terminal 132 and the second conductive member 322.

[0076] The assembly procedure for each component is as follows: first, the positive electrode terminal 132 and the second conductive member 322 are attached to the sealing plate 122 together with the insulating members 420 and 420A. Next, the first conductive member 321 connected to the electrode body 200 is attached to the second conductive member 322. At this time, the first conductive member 321 is placed on the insulating member 420 so that a portion of the first conductive member 321 overlaps the second conductive member 322. Next, the first conductive member 321 and the second conductive member 322 are welded together at the joint 323. Note that the insulating members 420 and 420A may be formed from a single member.

[0077] However, the positive electrode terminal 132 may be electrically connected to the sealing plate 122. Alternatively, the sealing plate 122 may serve as the positive electrode terminal 132.

[0078] Although FIG. 14 illustrates the positive electrode current collector 320 made up of two parts (first conductive member 321 and second conductive member 322), the positive electrode current collector 320 may be made up of a single part.

[0079] In the present technology, the connection structure between the electrode assembly 200 and the current collector is not limited to the structures shown in Figures 13 and 14. For example, the positive electrode tab group 220A may be electrically connected to the sealing plate 122 directly or via the positive electrode current collector 320. In this case, the sealing plate 122 may also serve as the positive electrode terminal 132.

[0080] (Insertion of electrode body 200 into case body 110) 15 and 16 are diagrams showing a state in which the electrode assembly 200 is held by a holding member 600. As shown in Fig. 15 and Fig. 16, the electrode assembly 200 is sandwiched by the holding members 600 from both sides in its thickness direction (Y-axis direction). In Fig. 15, the negative electrode tab group 210A and the positive electrode tab group 220A are in a state in which the negative electrode plates 210 and the positive electrode plates 220 remain stacked.

[0081] From the state shown in FIG. 15, as shown in FIG. 16, the negative electrode tab group 210A and the positive electrode tab group 220A are collected into foil while the electrode body 200 is held by the holding member 600.

[0082] 17 and 18 are diagrams showing the process of inserting the electrode body 200 held by the holding member 600 into the case body 110. FIG.

[0083] As shown in Figures 17 and 18, after the negative electrode tab group 210A and the positive electrode tab group 220A are collected into foil, the electrode body 200 is inserted into the case body 110 together with the holding member 600 while still being held by the holding member 600.

[0084] As shown in Figure 17, the electrode body 200 may be inserted with the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the case body 110 kept horizontal, or as shown in Figure 18, the electrode body 200 may be inserted with the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the case body 110 tilted obliquely with respect to the horizontal direction (tilted by an angle θ (0° < θ < 90°) so that the insertion opening is facing upward).

[0085] In this way, by continuing to hold the electrode body 200 by the holding member 600 from the time the negative electrode tab group 210A and the positive electrode tab group 220A are collected until they are inserted into the case body 110, it is possible to suppress stacking misalignment of the negative electrode plates 210 and the positive electrode plates 220 due to processing and transportation up to insertion into the case body 110.

[0086] After the electrode body 200 is inserted into the case body 110, the holding (chucking) of the electrode body 200 by the holding member 600 is released, and only the holding member 600 is pulled out from the case body 110, leaving the electrode body 200 in the case body 110.

[0087] By doing so, it is possible to suppress the stacking misalignment of the negative electrode plate 210 and the positive electrode plate 220 during the process of inserting the electrode body 200 into the case body 110, reduce the load acting on the end of the electrode body 200, and suppress damage to the electrode body 200.

[0088] Here, a laminated electrode body 200 has been described as an example, but even in the case of a wound electrode body, damage to the electrode body 200 during the process of inserting the electrode body 200 into the case body 110 can be suppressed by inserting it using the holding member 600.

[0089] (Configuration of cover member 500) Fig. 19 is a diagram showing a state in which the electrode body 200 is housed in the case body 110. In the example shown in Fig. 19, cover members 500 are provided on both sides in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the electrode body 200. After the electrode body 200 is inserted into the case body 110, the cover members 500 are inserted into the case body 110 via the openings 111, 112 on both sides, and attached to the electrode body 200.

[0090] 20 is a perspective view of the cover member 500. As shown in Fig. 20, the cover member 500 has openings 510 for allowing the negative electrode tab group 210A and the positive electrode tab group 220A to pass through. The cover member 500 does not need to cover the entire side surface of the electrode assembly 200, and may cover only a portion of the side surface of the electrode assembly 200.

[0091] By providing the cover member 500, it is possible to prevent foreign matter from entering the end portion of the electrode body 200 after the electrolyte solution is poured in. It is also possible to prevent the electrode body 200 from being damaged when the electrolyte solution is poured in.

[0092] (Configuration of holding member 600) 21 and 22 are diagrams each showing an example of the layout of a holding member 600. As shown in FIGS.

[0093] The holding members 600 are arranged to sandwich the electrode body 200 via a pair of main surfaces 201. In the example of Fig. 21, one holding member 600 is arranged on each main surface 201, and in the example of Fig. 22, a holding member 600 consisting of one first member 610 and two second members 620 is arranged on each main surface 201.

[0094] The thickness of each of the holding members 600 is preferably about 1 mm or more. As an example, the thickness of the holding members 600 is about 3 mm.

[0095] 21 and 22, the pressing length (L2, L21) in the X-axis direction by the holding member 600 is preferably about 0.6 times or more the length (L1) in the X-axis direction of the electrode body 200. In the example of Fig. 22, the pressing length (L22) of the second member 620 is shorter than the pressing length (L21) of the first member 610.

[0096] For example, when inserting the electrode body 200 into the case body 110 through the opening 111, it is preferable that the tip of the holding member 600 extends from the opening 111 to a distance of at least 30 percent (more preferably at least 50 percent, and even more preferably at least 80 percent) of the length of the case body 110 in the X-axis direction.

[0097] 21 and 22, the pressing width (H2) in the Z-axis direction by the holding member 600 is smaller than the height (H1) in the Z-axis direction of the electrode body 200, and is preferably about 0.8 times or less (H2≦0.8H1). In the example of Fig. 22, the total pressing width in the Z-axis direction of the pair of second members 620 is smaller than the pressing width in the Z-axis direction of a single first member 610.

[0098] 22, after the electrode body 200 is held by the first member 610 and the second member 620 and inserted into the case body 110, first, the holding of the first member 610 is released, and only the first member 610 is pulled out from the case body 110, leaving the electrode body 200 in the case body 110. Next, the holding of the second member 620 is released, and only the second member 620 is pulled out from the case body 110, leaving the electrode body 200 in the case body 110.

[0099] As described above, by performing the two-stage pulling out of the first member 610 and the second member 620, the holding member 600 can be easily pulled out from the case body 110.

[0100] 23 and 24 are diagrams showing examples of a cross section of a holding member 600. In the example of Fig. 23, both an upper surface 601 and a lower surface 602 of the holding member 600 have a flat shape. The lower surface 602 abuts against the main surface 201 of the electrode body 200.

[0101] 24, a lower surface 603 including an uneven shape is provided instead of a flat lower surface 602. This uneven shape is preferably formed parallel to the direction (X-axis direction) in which the holding member 600 is pulled out. From the viewpoints of reducing the load on the electrode body 200 and making it easier to pull out the holding member 600, it is preferable that the uneven shape of the lower surface 603 does not have corners that come into contact with the main surface 201 of the electrode body 200.

[0102] (Insulation sheet configuration) Next, an example of an "insulating sheet" interposed between the electrode assembly 200 and the holding member 600 will be described. Fig. 25 is a perspective view showing the electrode assembly 200 provided with tape 700 as an example of the "insulating sheet." Fig. 26 is a perspective view showing the electrode assembly 200 provided with an electrode assembly holder 800 as another example of the "insulating sheet."

[0103] 25, tape 700 is provided so as to cover a portion of each of the pair of main surfaces 201 of the electrode body 200. The tape 700 is provided in an area including the center (geometric center of gravity) of the rectangular main surface 201, but the scope of the present technology is not limited to this. The size of the tape 700 can be changed as appropriate. In one example, the area of ​​the tape 700 is approximately 50 percent or more of the area of ​​the main surface 201.

[0104] 26 , the electrode assembly holder 800 is provided so as to entirely cover the pair of main surfaces 201 and the pair of end surfaces 203 of the electrode assembly 200. However, the scope of the present technology is not limited thereto, and the electrode assembly holder 800 may be provided so as to cover only a portion of the pair of main surfaces 201 and the pair of end surfaces 203. In this case, the electrode assembly holder 800 preferably has a shape that covers approximately 80 percent or more of the area of ​​the pair of main surfaces 201 and the pair of end surfaces 203.

[0105] The thickness of the tape 700 and the electrode assembly holder 800 is preferably about 0.1 mm or more. In one example, the thickness of the tape 700 and the electrode assembly holder 800 is greater than the thickness of the separator 230.

[0106] When the electrode body 200 is inserted into the case body 110, the electrode body 200 can be held by the holding member 600 via the tape 700 or the electrode body holder 800 (insulating sheet).

[0107] Figures 27 to 29 are diagrams showing examples of the cross section of the tape 700. Note that although Figures 27 to 29 show examples of the cross section of the tape 700, the cross section of the electrode body holder 800 also has the same tendency as below.

[0108] 27, both the upper surface 701 and the lower surface 702 of the tape 700 have a flat shape. The upper surface 701 abuts against the holding member 600, and the lower surface 702 abuts against the main surface 201 of the electrode body 200.

[0109] 28 and 29, upper surfaces 703 and 704 including rectangular or triangular concave and convex shapes are provided instead of flat upper surface 701. These concave and convex shapes are preferably formed parallel to the direction in which holding member 600 is pulled out (X-axis direction).

[0110] 27 to 29, by placing a tape 700 or an electrode assembly holder 800 as an "insulating sheet" on the electrode assembly 200, the electrode assembly 200 is held by the holding member 600 via the tape 700 or the electrode assembly holder 800. Therefore, unintended damage to the electrode assembly 200 when the electrode assembly 200 is held by the holding member 600 can be effectively suppressed.

[0111] Furthermore, by providing an uneven shape on top surfaces 703, 704 of tape 700, it is possible to reduce the contact area between holding member 600 and tape 700. As a result, holding member 600 and tape 700 can be easily separated, and holding member 600 can be more smoothly pulled out from case body 110.

[0112] (Manufacturing process of secondary battery 1) Fig. 30 is a flow diagram showing each step of the manufacturing method of the secondary battery 1. As shown in Fig. 30, in S10, the case body 110 is prepared. Next, in S20, the electrode body 200 is produced, in S30, an insulating sheet (tape 700 or electrode body holder 800) is arranged, and in S40, the electrode body 200 is inserted into the case body 110.

[0113] In this process, first, a plurality of negative electrode plates 210 and positive electrode plates 220 are stacked with separators 230 interposed therebetween (S21), and then a tape 700 or an electrode assembly holder 800 is placed on the main surface 201 of the electrode assembly 200 (S30). Next, the electrode assembly 200 is held by a holding member 600 (S41). With the electrode assembly 200 held, the negative electrode tab group 210A and the positive electrode tab group 220A are each collected into foil (S22), and then the electrode assembly 200 together with the holding member 600 is inserted into the case body 110 (S42). After the electrode assembly 200 and the holding member 600 are inserted into the case body 110, only the holding member 600 is pulled out from the case body 110, leaving the electrode assembly 200 inside the case body 110 (S43).

[0114] After the insertion of the electrode assembly 200 into the case body 110 (S40) is completed, cover members 500 are placed on both sides of the electrode assembly 200 (S50). Then, the negative electrode tab group 210A and the positive electrode tab group 220A are electrically connected to the negative electrode terminal 131 and the positive electrode terminal 132, respectively. This electrical connection step may be performed before the electrode assembly 200 is inserted into the case body 110. Furthermore, the openings 111 and 112 are sealed with sealing plates 121 and 122, respectively (S60). The sealing step using the sealing plates 121 and 122 is performed by, for example, laser welding.

[0115] The step (S61) of sealing the opening 111 with the negative electrode-side sealing plate 121 may be performed after the step (S62) of sealing the opening 112 with the positive electrode-side sealing plate 122, or at least some of the steps (S61, S62) of sealing with the sealing plates 121, 122 may be performed simultaneously. Furthermore, one of the steps (S61, S62) of sealing with the sealing plates 121, 122 may be performed before the electrode body 200 is inserted into the case body 110 (S40).

[0116] After the sealing step (S60) using sealing plates 121, 122 is completed, electrolyte is poured into exterior body 100 through pouring holes 141, 142, and then pouring holes 141, 142 are sealed. After pouring holes 141, 142 are sealed, secondary battery 1 is completed through a predetermined inspection step.

[0117] (Action and effect) According to the secondary battery 1 of this embodiment, the electrode body 200 is inserted into the case body 110 having openings 111 and 112 facing each other, and the negative terminal 131 and the positive terminal 132 are respectively provided on the sealing plates 121 and 122 that seal the openings 111 and 112, thereby reducing the height of the secondary battery 1 and improving the mountability of the secondary battery 1 in a vehicle.

[0118] Furthermore, by holding the electrode body 200 with the holding member 600, inserting the electrode body 200 together with the holding member 600 into the case body 110, and then pulling out the holding member 600 from the case body 110 while leaving the electrode body 200 inside the case body 110, the electrode body 200 can be efficiently accommodated in the case body 110 while minimizing damage to the flat electrode body 200.

[0119] Furthermore, when a laminated electrode body 200 is used, by using a strip-shaped separator 230 in which the first region 231 and the third region 233 provided at the outermost periphery of the electrode body 200 are continuous with the second region 232 folded zigzag along the plurality of negative electrode plates 210 and positive electrode plates 220, it is possible to suppress the stacking misalignment of the negative electrode plates 210 and positive electrode plates 220, and more effectively suppress damage to the electrode body 200.

[0120] Furthermore, by continuing to hold the electrode body 200 using the holding member 600 from the time the negative electrode tab group 210A and the positive electrode tab group 220A are collected to the time they are inserted into the case body 110, damage to the electrode body 200 can be more effectively suppressed.

[0121] As a result of the above, according to the secondary battery 1 and the manufacturing method thereof of the present embodiment, the electrode body 200 can be efficiently housed in the case body 110 while preventing damage to the flat electrode body 200.

[0122] Although the embodiments of the present technology have been described above, the embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. The scope of the present technology is defined by the claims, and it is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0123] 1 secondary battery, 100 exterior body, 110 case body, 110A joint, 111, 112 opening, 121, 122 sealing plate, 131 negative electrode terminal, 131A joint, 132 positive electrode terminal, 132A joint, 141, 142 liquid injection hole, 151, 152 gas release valve, 200 electrode body, 210 negative electrode plate, 210A negative electrode tab group, 210B negative electrode tab, 210S negative electrode base plate, 211 negative electrode core, 212 negative electrode active material layer, 220 positive electrode plate, 220A positive electrode tab group, 220B positive electrode tab, 220S positive electrode base plate, 221 positive electrode core, 222 positive electrode active material layer, 223 positive electrode protective layer, 230 separator, 231 First region, 232, second region, 233, third region, 310, negative electrode current collector, 310A, joint portion, 311, 321, first conductive member, 312, 322, second conductive member, 313, 323, joint portion, 320, positive electrode current collector, 320A, joint portion, 321A, step portion, 410, 410A, 420, 420A, insulating member, 500, cover member, 510, opening, 600, holding member, 601, upper surface, 602, 603, lower surface, 610, first member, 620, second member, 700, tape, 701, 703, 704, upper surface, 702, lower surface, 800, electrode body holder.

Claims

1. providing a case body having a first opening; a step of preparing a flat electrode body including a positive electrode plate and a negative electrode plate, having a pair of rectangular main surfaces and side surfaces adjacent to the main surfaces at ends in a first direction, and further including an electrode tab protruding from the side surfaces; inserting the electrode assembly into the case body along the first direction through the first opening; and sealing the first opening with a first sealing plate after inserting the electrode body into the case body. The step of inserting the electrode body into the case body includes: holding the electrode body by a first holding member and a second holding member so as to sandwich the pair of main surfaces from both sides in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction; inserting the electrode body together with the first holding member and the second holding member into the case body; After inserting the electrode body into the case body, releasing the electrode body from the first holding member and pulling out the first holding member from the case body while leaving the electrode body inside the case body; After the first holding member is pulled out from the case body, the holding by the second holding member is released, and the second holding member is pulled out from the case body while the electrode body is left in the case body, the pair of main surfaces have a first length in the first direction and a first width in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction; In the first direction, a pressing length of the pair of main surfaces by the first holding member is 0.6 times or more of the first length, and a pressing length of the pair of main surfaces by the second holding member is shorter than a pressing length by the first holding member, a total pressing width of the pair of main surfaces of the first holding member and the second holding member in the third direction is 0.8 times or less than the first width, and a pressing width of the pair of main surfaces by the second holding member is smaller than a pressing width by the first holding member.

2. The method for manufacturing a secondary battery according to claim 1 , wherein the length of the case body in the first direction is 30 cm or more.

3. A method for manufacturing a secondary battery as described in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein when the electrode body is inserted into the case body, the tip of the first holding member reaches a distance from the first opening that is more than 30 percent of the length of the case body in the first direction.

4. 3. The method for manufacturing a secondary battery according to claim 1, wherein the electrode assembly is a laminated electrode assembly in which a plurality of positive electrode plates and a plurality of negative electrode plates are laminated with separators interposed therebetween.

5. A method for manufacturing a secondary battery as described in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein when the first retaining member and the second retaining member are pulled out from the case body, the case body is tilted so that the first direction intersects diagonally with the horizontal direction.

6. a step of covering at least a portion of the electrode assembly with an insulating sheet before the electrode assembly is inserted into the case body; 3. The method for manufacturing a secondary battery according to claim 1, wherein when the electrode body is inserted into the case body, the electrode body is held by the first holding member and the second holding member via the insulating sheet.

Images