Method for manufacturing battery pack, device for manufacturing battery pack, and battery pack

Abstract

A connection step (S03) and a pressing step (S04) of a method for manufacturing a battery pack (1) involve moving a cover (bus bar holder 321) while holding a holding part (321d), and connecting a first connection part (202b) of a spacer (cell spacer 202) and a second connection part (321b) of the bus bar holder (321). The cell spacer (202) of the battery pack (1) includes a first connection part (202b) protruding from a body part (202a) to the outside. The bus bar holder (321) of the battery pack (1) includes: a covering part (321a) that covers a first battery (100) and a second battery (100); a second connection part (321b) formed in the covering part (321a) and connected to the first connection part (202b); a reinforcing part (321c) formed in the covering part (321a), adjacent to the second connection part (321b), and reinforcing the second connection part (321b); and a holding part (321d) formed in a planar shape on the covering part (321a).

Description

Battery assembly manufacturing method, battery assembly manufacturing device, and battery assembly

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for manufacturing a battery pack, and a battery pack.

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, techniques relating to the manufacture of battery packs have been known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Patent Publication No. 2017-130313

[0004] In the automation of battery pack manufacturing, there is a demand for covering a plurality of batteries with a cover while connecting the cover to spacers between the batteries.

[0005] The battery pack of the present invention includes a plurality of batteries, a spacer disposed between a first battery and a second battery, and a cover connected to the spacer and covering the first battery and the second battery. The spacer includes a main body portion located between the first battery and the second battery and a first connection portion protruding outward from the main body portion. The cover includes a covering portion covering the first battery and the second battery, a second connection portion formed on the covering portion and connected to the first connection portion, a reinforcing portion formed on the covering portion adjacent to the second connection portion and reinforcing the second connection portion, and a retaining portion formed in a planar shape on the covering portion.

[0006] A method for manufacturing a battery pack according to the present invention includes a connecting step of moving the cover while holding the holding portion to connect the first connecting portion of the spacer and the second connecting portion of the cover.

[0007] The battery assembly manufacturing apparatus of the present invention is the battery assembly manufacturing apparatus described above, and includes a moving unit that holds and moves the holding unit to connect the first connection portion of the spacer and the second connection portion of the cover.

[0008] In the automation of the production of assembled batteries, a plurality of batteries can be covered with a cover, and the cover can be connected to the spacers between the batteries.

[0009] 6 is a perspective view showing a battery pack 1 according to an embodiment; a perspective view of the battery pack 1 of FIG. 1 in a different orientation; a perspective view showing the main parts of FIG. 2; an exploded perspective view of the main parts of FIG. 3; a top view of the battery pack 1 of FIG. 1 with the busbar holder 321 removed; a perspective view of the battery pack 1 of FIG. 1 with the busbar holder 321 removed and with some of the components of the junction unit 700 exploded in the width direction Y; an exploded perspective view of the main parts of FIG. 6; a perspective view of the battery pack 1 of FIG. 1 with the busbar holder 321 removed and with some of the components of the controller unit 400 exploded in the width direction Y; a perspective view of a plurality of batteries 100 and a holding unit 200 with some of the components of the holding unit 200 exploded in the width direction Y and the stacking direction X. 9 , excluding the first side plate 231, the second side plate 232, and the fastening bolts 241, and showing the components of the battery 100 and the holding unit 200 disassembled in the stacking direction X. A perspective view showing the busbar unit 300 and the voltage detection unit 500. A perspective view showing a portion of the temperature measurement unit 600 and the junction unit 700. A schematic diagram showing the state in which a case 721 is attached to the second side plate 232 holding multiple batteries 100, in relation to the manufacturing method and manufacturing apparatus for the battery pack 1. Following on from FIG. 13 , this is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the harness 503 is temporarily fastened to the busbar holder 321. Following on from FIG. 14 , this is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the busbar holder 321 is brought close to the multiple batteries 100. Following on from FIG. 15 , this is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the busbar holder 321 is connected to the spacer between the multiple batteries 100. Following on from FIG. 16 , this is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the harness 503 is removed from the busbar holder 321. 17 is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the bus bar 302 and the like are welded to the electrode terminals of the battery 100. Continuing from Fig. 13, this is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the connecting member 421 is attached to the case 721. Continuing from Fig. 19, this is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the connecting member 421, which was removed from the case 721, is attached to the case 721 again.

[0010] Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. To facilitate understanding of each embodiment, the size and proportions of components may be exaggerated in each drawing. The same reference numerals are used for the same components in each drawing. In each drawing, the stacking direction X, width direction Y, and height direction Z of the battery pack 1 are indicated by arrows. However, in each drawing, the stacking direction X, width direction Y, and height direction Z of the battery pack 1 indicate the relative positional relationship within the same drawing. That is, if the battery pack 1 is rotated 180 degrees and placed with the top and bottom sides reversed, or if the battery pack 1 is rotated 90 degrees and placed with the top side facing sideways, the stacking direction X, width direction Y, and height direction Z of the battery pack 1 will change. In each drawing, the threads on the outer surfaces of the fastening bolts and the grooves on the inner surfaces of the insert nuts are omitted.

[0011] (Configuration of Battery Pack 1 of the Embodiment) The configuration of a battery pack 1 of the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 12. FIG.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a battery pack 1 according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the battery pack 1 of FIG. 1 in a different orientation. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing essential parts of FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the essential parts of FIG. 3. FIG. 5 is a top view of the battery pack 1 of FIG. 1 , excluding a busbar holder 321. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the battery pack 1 of FIG. 1 , excluding the busbar holder 321, and showing some of the components of a junction unit 700 disassembled in the width direction Y. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the essential parts of FIG. 6. FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the battery pack 1 of FIG. 1 , excluding the busbar holder 321, and showing some of the components of a controller unit 400 disassembled in the width direction Y. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a plurality of batteries 100 and a holding unit 200, showing some of the components of the holding unit 200 disassembled in the width direction Y and the stacking direction X. 10 is a perspective view showing the battery 100 and the holding unit 200 with the first side plate 231, the second side plate 232, and the fastening bolts 241 removed from FIG. 9 and with the components disassembled in the stacking direction X. FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the bus bar unit 300 and the voltage detection unit 500. FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing a portion of the temperature measurement unit 600 and the junction unit 700.

[0013] The battery pack 1 is configured as, for example, a power source for operating an electrical device 1000 mounted on a vehicle. The battery pack 1 may also be configured as, for example, a power source for operating a motor for running the vehicle.

[0014] 1, the battery pack 1 includes a plurality of batteries 100, a holding unit 200 that holds the plurality of batteries 100, a bus bar unit 300 that electrically connects the plurality of batteries 100, and a controller unit 400 that controls the input and output of power to the plurality of batteries 100. The battery pack 1 also includes a voltage detection unit 500 that detects the voltage of the batteries 100, a temperature measurement unit 600 that measures the temperature of the batteries 100, and a junction unit 700 that electrically connects, for example, an electrical device 1000 on the vehicle side to the plurality of batteries 100. The components included in the battery pack 1 will be described below.

[0015] (Configuration of Battery 100) The batteries 100 shown in Figs. 1 to 10 are stacked in a stacking direction X via holding units 200. As shown in Fig. 9, for example, 12 batteries 100 are stacked. The batteries 100 are configured, for example, by lithium ion secondary batteries. The batteries 100 include a current collector and an electrolyte. As shown in Fig. 10, the battery 100 includes a container 101, a lid 102, a positive electrode terminal 103, a negative electrode terminal 104, and a safety valve 105. The components included in the battery 100 will be described below.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 10 , the battery 100 is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape. A positive electrode terminal 103 and a negative electrode terminal 104 are provided on an upper surface 100a of the battery 100 along the stacking direction X. The upper surface 100a corresponds to the upper surface of the battery 100 in FIG. 10 . The upper surface 100a is formed in a rectangular shape. The length of the upper surface 100a along the width direction Y of the battery 100 is longer than the length of the upper surface 100a along the stacking direction X of the battery 100. The upper surface 100a faces the busbar unit 300 shown in FIG. 1 . Two side surfaces 100b along the stacking direction X of the battery 100 face each other perpendicularly to the upper surface 100a. The side surfaces 100b are formed in a rectangular shape. The length of the side surfaces 100b along the height direction Z of the battery 100 is longer than the length of the side surfaces 100b along the stacking direction X of the battery 100. Two main surfaces 100 c of the battery 100 that face each other in the stacking direction X are in contact with the cell spacers 202 and the like of the holding unit 200 .

[0017] The current collector of the battery 100 corresponds to a charge / discharge element between which electric power is input and output. The current collector of the battery 100 is configured by winding or stacking a positive electrode and a negative electrode with a separator interposed therebetween. The container 101 contains the current collector and an electrolyte. The lid 102, together with the container 101, seals the current collector and the electrolyte. The lid 102 is joined to the container 101. The positive electrode terminal 103 and the negative electrode terminal 104 relay the input and output of electric power between the current collector and the electrical device 1000. The positive electrode terminal 103 and the negative electrode terminal 104 are attached to the lid 102. The positive electrode terminal 103 of one battery 100 and the negative electrode terminal 104 of the other battery 100, which are adjacent along the stacking direction X, face each other in the stacking direction X, as shown in FIG. 10 . The safety valve 105 ruptures toward the outside of the battery 100 when the internal pressure of the battery 100 exceeds a predetermined value. The safety valve 105 is also called a split valve. The safety valve 105 is provided in the lid 102, for example.

[0018] (Configuration of Holding Unit 200) As shown in Figures 1 to 10, the holding unit 200 holds multiple batteries 100. As shown in Figure 10, the holding unit 200 includes a first end spacer 201, a cell spacer 202, a first intermediate spacer 203, a second intermediate spacer 204, and a second end spacer 205. As shown in Figure 10, the holding unit 200 also includes a first end block 211, an intermediate block 212, and a second end block 213. As shown in Figure 10, the holding unit 200 also includes an insulating member 221 and an insert nut 222. As shown in Figure 9, the holding unit 200 also includes a first side plate 231, a second side plate 232, and a fastening bolt 241. The components included in the holding unit 200 will be described below.

[0019] As shown in FIG. 10 , the first end spacer 201 is provided between the first end block 211 and the battery 100. The first end spacer 201 contacts the first battery 100 located at one end of the twelve stacked batteries 100. This battery 100 corresponds to the battery 100 located at the left end in FIG. 5 . The first end spacer 201 insulates the first end block 211 from the battery 100. The first end spacer 201 covers each side surface of the first end block 211 and the battery 100 along the width direction Y. The first end spacer 201 covers a portion of the side surface 100b of the battery 100 along the stacking direction X. The thickness of the first end spacer 201 along the stacking direction X is sufficiently thinner than the thickness of the battery 100 along the stacking direction X. The first end spacer 201 is made of an insulating material. Like the cell spacer 202 described below, the first end spacer 201 may include a main body portion and a first connection portion.

[0020] The cell spacer 202 is a spacer. As shown in FIG. 10 , the cell spacer 202 is provided between adjacent batteries 100. The cell spacer 202 holds and insulates the adjacent batteries 100. The cell spacer 202 covers the main surfaces 100c of the adjacent batteries 100 along the width direction Y and a portion of the side surfaces 100b of the adjacent batteries 100 along the stacking direction X. The thickness of the cell spacer 202 along the stacking direction X is sufficiently thinner than the thickness of the batteries 100 along the stacking direction X. The cell spacer 202 is made of an insulating material.

[0021] The cell spacer 202 is provided between the first battery 100 and the second battery 100. As shown in FIG. 9 , the cell spacer 202 includes a main body 202a and a first connection portion 202b. The main body 202a is located between the first battery 100 and the second battery 100. The first connection portion 202b protrudes outward from the main body 202a. That is, the first connection portion 202b protrudes upward in the height direction Z from the main body 202a. The first connection portion 202b includes a convex protrusion. The first connection portion 202b is formed on both ends of the first battery 100 and the second battery 100 in the width direction Y (intersecting direction) that intersects with the stacking direction X.

[0022] As shown in FIG. 10 , the first intermediate spacer 203 is provided between the intermediate block 212 and the battery 100 relatively closer to the first end block 211. In FIG. 5 , the first intermediate spacer 203 contacts the sixth battery 100 from one end of the twelve stacked batteries 100. The first intermediate spacer 203 insulates the intermediate block 212 from the battery 100. The first intermediate spacer 203 covers each side surface of the battery 100 and the intermediate block 212 along the width direction Y and a portion of the side surface of the battery 100 along the stacking direction X. The thickness of the first intermediate spacer 203 along the stacking direction X is sufficiently thinner than the thickness of the battery 100 along the stacking direction X. The first intermediate spacer 203 is formed of an insulating material. Like the cell spacer 202 described above, the first intermediate spacer 203 may include a main body portion and a first connection portion.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 10 , the second intermediate spacer 204 is provided between the intermediate block 212 and the battery 100 relatively closer to the second end block 213. In FIG. 5 , the second intermediate spacer 204 contacts the seventh battery 100 from one end of the twelve stacked batteries 100. The second intermediate spacer 204 insulates the intermediate block 212 from the battery 100. The second intermediate spacer 204 covers each side surface of the intermediate block 212 and the battery 100 along the width direction Y and a portion of the side surface of the intermediate block 212 and the battery 100 along the stacking direction X. The thickness of the second intermediate spacer 204 along the stacking direction X is sufficiently thinner than the thickness of the battery 100 along the stacking direction X. The second intermediate spacer 204 is formed of an insulating material. Like the cell spacer 202 described above, the second intermediate spacer 204 may include a main body portion and a first connection portion.

[0024] As shown in FIG. 10 , the second end spacer 205 is provided between the battery 100 and the second end block 213. The second end spacer 205 contacts the twelfth battery 100 located at the other end of the twelve stacked batteries 100. This battery 100 corresponds to the rightmost battery 100 in FIG. 2 . The second end spacer 205 insulates the battery 100 from the second end block 213. The second end spacer 205 covers each side surface of the battery 100 and the second end block 213 along the width direction Y and a portion of the side surface of the battery 100 along the stacking direction X. The thickness of the second end spacer 205 along the stacking direction X is sufficiently thinner than the thickness of the battery 100 along the stacking direction X. The second end spacer 205 is formed of an insulating material. Like the cell spacer 202 described above, the second end spacer 205 may include a main body portion and a first connection portion.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 10 , the first end block 211 is stacked with the first battery 100 located at one end of the twelve stacked batteries 100, via a first end spacer 201. The first end block 211 extends in a width direction Y that intersects with the stacking direction X of the batteries 100. The first end block 211 is adjacent to the battery 100 located at the end along the stacking direction X and supports the battery 100. The first end block 211 is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape extending in the width direction Y. Fastening bolts 241 are screwed into a plurality of screw holes 211m formed in the side surface of the first end block 211 along the stacking direction X shown in FIG. 10 and a plurality of screw holes 211n formed in the side surface of the first end block 211 along the width direction Y. As shown in FIG. 6 , the first end block 211 is fixed to the first side plate 231 by the fastening bolts 241. 6, the first end block 211 is fixed to the second side plate 232 by a fastening bolt 241. The first end block 211 is made of, for example, metal or resin.

[0026] The intermediate block 212 is an intermediate member. As shown in FIG. 10 , the intermediate block 212 is stacked between the first intermediate spacer 203 and the second intermediate spacer 204. That is, in FIG. 5 , the intermediate block 212 is located, for example, between the sixth and seventh batteries 100 of the twelve stacked batteries 100. The intermediate block 212 is adjacent to the batteries 100 along the width direction Y of the batteries 100 and supports the batteries 100. The intermediate block 212 is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape extending in the width direction Y. Fastening bolts 241 are screwed into a plurality of screw holes 212m formed on the side surface of the intermediate block 212 along the stacking direction X shown in FIG. 10 . The intermediate block 212 is fixed to the first side plate 231 by the fastening bolts 241 as shown in FIG. 8 . Similarly, the intermediate block 212 is fixed to the second side plate 232 by the fastening bolts 241 as shown in FIG. 6 . The intermediate block 212 is made of, for example, metal or resin.

[0027] The intermediate block 212 holds the batteries 100. The intermediate block 212 is provided between the third battery 100 and the fourth battery 100. The third battery 100 is the sixth battery 100 of the twelve stacked batteries 100. The fourth battery 100 is the seventh battery 100 of the twelve stacked batteries 100. The intermediate block 212 is covered by a busbar holder 321.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 10 , the second end block 213 is stacked with the twelfth battery 100 located at the other end of the twelve stacked batteries 100 via a second end spacer 205. The second end block 213 extends along the width direction Y of the batteries 100. The second end block 213 is adjacent to the battery 100 located at the end along the stacking direction X and supports the battery 100. The second end block 213 is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape extending in the width direction Y. Fastening bolts 241 are screwed into multiple screw holes 213m formed on the side surface of the second end block 213 along the stacking direction X shown in FIG. 10 and multiple screw holes formed on the side surface along the width direction Y. The second end block 213 is fixed to the first side plate 231 by the fastening bolts 241 as shown in FIGS. 5 and 8 . Similarly, the second end block 213 is fixed to the second side plate 232 by the fastening bolts 241 as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 . The second end block 213 is formed of, for example, metal or resin.

[0029] 10 , the insulating member 221 is inserted into a recess located near the junction unit 700 on the upper surface of the first end block 211. The insulating member 221 is also inserted into a recess located near the junction unit 700 on the upper surface of the second end block 213. The insulating member 221 is formed, for example, in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped. The insulating member 221 is made of an insulating material.

[0030] The insulating member 221 may be configured as follows. That is, the insulating member 221 may be molded integrally with the first end spacer 201, or may be molded separately from the first end spacer 201 and then joined to the first end spacer 201. In such a case, the first end block 211 has a recess on its surface facing the first end spacer 201 that accommodates the insulating member 221 along the stacking direction X. Similarly, the insulating member 221 may be molded integrally with the second end spacer 205, or may be molded separately from the second end spacer 205 and then joined to the second end spacer 205. In such a case, the second end block 213 has a recess on its surface facing the second end spacer 205 that accommodates the insulating member 221 along the stacking direction X.

[0031] 10, the insert nut 222 is embedded in a recess formed in the upper surface of the insulating member 221. The insert nut 222 has the fastening bolt 311 anchored thereto via the negative electrode side connection terminal 709, for example.

[0032] 1, the first side plate 231 is arranged along the stacking direction X of the stacked batteries 100, at one end of the plurality of batteries 100 in the width direction Y. As shown in FIG. 1, the first side plate 231 is located on the controller unit 400 side.

[0033] The first side plate 231 holds a plurality of batteries 100 along the stacking direction X. As shown in Fig. 9 , fastening bolts 241 are inserted into a plurality of insertion holes 231m formed on a side surface of the first side plate 231 along the stacking direction X and a plurality of insertion holes 231n formed on a side surface of the first side plate 231 along the width direction Y. As shown in Figs. 1 and 8 , the first side plate 231 is fixed to the first end block 211, the intermediate block 212, and the second end block 213 by the fastening bolts 241. As shown in Fig. 1 , a controller unit 400 is attached to the first side plate 231.

[0034] The second side plate 232 is a support member. The second side plate 232 supports the plurality of batteries 100 in the stacking direction X. As shown in FIG. 1 , the second side plate 232 is arranged at the other end of the plurality of batteries 100 in the width direction Y, along the stacking direction X of the stacked plurality of batteries 100. As shown in FIG. 1 , the second side plate 232 is located on the side of the junction unit 700.

[0035] The second side plate 232 holds a plurality of batteries 100 along the stacking direction X. As shown in FIG. 9 , fastening bolts 241 are inserted into a plurality of insertion holes 232m formed on a side surface of the second side plate 232 along the stacking direction X and a plurality of insertion holes 232n formed on a side surface of the second side plate 232 along the width direction Y. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 6 , the second side plate 232 is fixed to the first end block 211, the intermediate block 212, and the second end block 213 by the fastening bolts 241. As shown in FIG. 1 , a junction unit 700 is attached to the second side plate 232.

[0036] The fastening bolts 241 fasten the first end block 211 and the case 721 of the junction unit 700 along the width direction Y and stacking direction X of the battery 100. The fastening bolts 241 fasten the second end block 213 and the case 721 of the junction unit 700 along the width direction Y and stacking direction X of the battery 100. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 8 , the fastening bolts 241 fasten the first side plate 231 and the first end block 211, the first side plate 231 and the intermediate block 212, and the first side plate 231 and the second end block 213. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 , the fastening bolts 241 also fasten the second side plate 232 and the first end block 211, the second side plate 232 and the intermediate block 212, and the second side plate 232 and the second end block 213.

[0037] (Configuration of busbar unit 300) The busbar unit 300 shown in Figures 1 to 8 and 11 electrically connects multiple batteries 100. As shown in Figure 11, the busbar unit 300 includes a first end busbar 301, multiple busbars 302, an intermediate busbar 303, and a second end busbar 304. As shown in Figure 1, the busbar unit 300 also includes a fastening bolt 311 and a busbar holder 321. The configuration included in the busbar unit 300 will be described below.

[0038] As shown in FIG. 5 , the first end bus bar 301 is joined to the first relay bus bar 701 of the junction unit 700. The first end bus bar 301 is also joined to the positive terminal 103 of the battery 100 closest to the first end block 211 among the twelve stacked batteries 100. As shown in FIG. 11 , the first end bus bar 301 includes a plate-shaped first joint portion 301a, a plate-shaped second joint portion 301b, a curved connecting portion 301c, and an insertion hole 301d. The first joint portion 301a is joined to the first relay bus bar 701 of the junction unit 700. The second joint portion 301b is joined to the positive terminal 103 of the first battery 100 among the twelve stacked batteries 100. The connecting portion 301c connects the first joint portion 301a and the second joint portion 301b. The insertion hole 301d is formed in the first joint portion 301a. A fastening bolt 311 is inserted into the insertion hole 301d. The first end bus bar 301 is made of, for example, aluminum. When the first end bus bar 301 is made of a clad material, for example, the first joint portion 301a is made of copper and the second joint portion 301b is made of aluminum. When the negative electrode terminal 104 of the battery 100 is configured such that copper is converted to aluminum, the first end bus bar 301 may be configured such that the first joint portion 301a and the second joint portion 301b are integrally formed of aluminum.

[0039] As shown in FIG. 5 , the bus bar 302 electrically connects one battery 100 and another battery 100 that are adjacent to each other along the stacking direction X. As shown in FIG. 5 , the bus bar 302 is joined to the positive terminal 103 of one battery 100 that is adjacent to each other along the stacking direction X and the negative terminal 104 of the other battery 100 that is adjacent to each other along the stacking direction X, except for the sixth and seventh batteries 100, among the twelve stacked batteries 100. As shown in FIG. 11 , the bus bar 302 includes a plate-shaped first joint portion 302a, a plate-shaped second joint portion 302b, and a curved connecting portion 302c. The first joint portion 302a is joined to the negative terminal 104 of one adjacent battery 100. The second joint portion 302b is joined to the positive terminal 103 of the other adjacent battery 100. The connecting portion 302c connects the first joint portion 302a and the second joint portion 302b. The bus bar 302 is formed, for example, from a clad material in which copper and aluminum are bonded together, copper, or aluminum. When the bus bar 302 is formed from a clad material, for example, the first joint portion 302a is formed from copper and the second joint portion 302b is formed from aluminum. When the negative electrode terminal 104 of the battery 100 is configured such that copper is converted to aluminum, the bus bar 302 may be configured such that the first joint portion 302a, the second joint portion 302b, and the connecting portion 302c are integrally formed from aluminum.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 5 , the intermediate bus bar 303 electrically connects adjacent batteries 100 along the stacking direction X to other batteries 100. As shown in FIG. 5 , the intermediate bus bar 303 is joined to the sixth and seventh batteries 100 located in the center of the stack along the stacking direction X among the twelve stacked batteries 100. As shown in FIG. 11 , the intermediate bus bar 303 includes a plate-shaped first joint portion 303a, a plate-shaped second joint portion 303b, and a curved connecting portion 303c. The first joint portion 303a is joined to the negative terminal 104 of the sixth battery 100. The second joint portion 303b is joined to the positive terminal 103 of the seventh battery 100. The connecting portion 303c connects the first joint portion 303a and the second joint portion 303b. Here, the intermediate bus bar 303 electrically connects the sixth and seventh batteries 100 via the intermediate block 212. For this reason, the intermediate bus bar 303 is formed to have a longer overall length along the stacking direction X than the bus bar 302. The intermediate bus bar 303 is formed, for example, from a clad material in which copper and aluminum are bonded together, copper, or aluminum. When the intermediate bus bar 303 is formed from a clad material, for example, the first joint portion 303a is formed from copper and the second joint portion 303b is formed from aluminum. When the negative electrode terminal 104 of the battery 100 is configured such that copper is converted to aluminum, the intermediate bus bar 303 may be configured such that the first joint portion 303a and the second joint portion 303b are integrally formed from aluminum.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 5 , the second end bus bar 304 is joined to the negative terminal 104 of the battery 100 closest to the second end block 213 among the twelve stacked batteries 100. The second end bus bar 304 is also joined to the negative electrode side connection terminal 709 of the junction unit 700. As shown in FIG. 11 , the second end bus bar 304 includes a plate-shaped first joint portion 304a, a plate-shaped second joint portion 304b, a curved connecting portion 304c, and an insertion hole 304d. The first joint portion 304a is joined to the negative electrode terminal 104 of the twelfth battery 100. The second joint portion 304b is joined to the negative electrode side connection terminal 709 of the junction unit 700. The connecting portion 304c connects the first joint portion 304a and the second joint portion 304b. The insertion hole 304d is formed in the second joint portion 304b. A fastening bolt 311 is inserted into the insertion hole 304d. The second end bus bar 304 is made of, for example, copper.

[0042] As shown in Figures 5 and 11 , the fastening bolt 311 fastens the first relay bus bar 701 of the junction unit 700 to the first end bus bar 301, providing electrical continuity. This fastening bolt 311 is fixed to an insert nut 222 provided on the first end block 211 shown in Figure 10. Also, as shown in Figures 5 and 11 , the fastening bolt 311 provides electrical continuity between the second end bus bar 304 and the negative electrode side connection terminal 709 of the junction unit 700. This fastening bolt 311 is fixed to an insert nut 222 provided on the second end block 213 shown in Figure 10.

[0043] The bus bar holder 321 is a cover. As shown in Fig. 1 , the bus bar holder 321 integrally holds the first end bus bar 301, the plurality of bus bars 302, the intermediate bus bar 303, and the second end bus bar 304. The bus bar holder 321 also covers and insulates the stacked batteries 100.

[0044] The busbar holder 321 is connected to the cell spacer 202. The busbar holder 321 covers the first battery 100, the second battery 100, etc. As shown in Figures 3, 4 and 11, the busbar holder 321 includes a covering portion 321a, a second connecting portion 321b, a reinforcing portion 321c, a holding portion 321d, a mooring portion 321e, an opening 321f, a mooring portion 321g, and an insertion portion 321h.

[0045] The covering portion 321a is formed in a plate shape as shown in Figures 3, 4 and 11. The covering portion 321a covers the first battery 100 and the second battery 100 as shown in Figure 2.

[0046] As shown in Figures 3, 4, and 11, the second connection portion 321b is formed on the covering portion 321a. The second connection portion 321b is connected to the first connection portion 202b of the cell spacer 202. The second connection portion 321b faces the first connection portion 202b. The second connection portion 321b includes a concave recess into which the protrusion of the first connection portion 202b is inserted. The second connection portion 321b is formed on both ends of the covering portion 321a in the width direction Y, which intersects with the stacking direction X of the first battery 100 and the second battery 100. A plurality of second connection portions 321b are formed along the stacking direction X of the first battery 100 and the second battery 100.

[0047] As shown in Figures 3, 4, and 11, the reinforcing portion 321c is formed on the covering portion 321a. The reinforcing portion 321c is adjacent to the second connecting portion 321b. The reinforcing portion 321c reinforces the second connecting portion 321b. The reinforcing portion 321c includes a plurality of protruding portions protruding from the covering portion 321a.

[0048] As shown in Figures 3, 4, and 11, the holding portion 321d is formed in a flat shape on the covering portion 321a. The holding portion 321d is located between the second connecting portions 321b formed on both ends of the covering portion 321a. Two holding portions 321d are included, spaced apart from each other. The holding portions 321d face the intermediate block 212 via the covering portion 321a.

[0049] As shown in Figures 3, 4, and 11, the mooring portion 321e is formed on the covering portion 321a. The mooring portion 321e moors the harness 406. The mooring portion 321e includes a first mooring portion 321e1 and a second mooring portion 321e2. The first mooring portion 321e1 stands upright from the covering portion 321a. The second mooring portion 321e2 is formed on the tip side of the first mooring portion 321e1. The second mooring portion 321e2 extends in the first direction Y1, which intersects with the first mooring portion 321e1.

[0050] 11, openings 321f are formed in covering portion 321a. Openings 321f expose the first joint portions or second joint portions of first end bus bar 301, multiple bus bars 302, intermediate bus bar 303, or second end bus bar 304 toward battery 100. Each opening 321f is larger than the first joint portion or second joint portion of the corresponding bus bar.

[0051] As shown in Fig. 11 , the mooring portions 321g are formed on the covering portion 321a. The mooring portions 321g hold the ends of the first joint portions or the second joint portions of the first end bus bar 301, the plurality of bus bars 302, the intermediate bus bar 303, and the second end bus bar 304. Each mooring portion 321g is formed on the edge of the opening 321f. Each mooring portion 321g has a linear groove along the surface of the bus bar holder 321. The groove provided in each mooring portion 321g receives the end of the first joint portion or the second joint portion of the corresponding bus bar.

[0052] The insertion portion 321h is formed in the covering portion 321a as shown in Fig. 11. An electric wire 602 of the temperature measuring unit 600 is inserted into the insertion portion 321h.

[0053] (Configuration of Controller Unit 400) The controller unit 400 shown in FIGS. 1 to 8 and 12 controls the input and output of power to and from the plurality of batteries 100. The controller unit 400 is generally referred to as a battery energy control module (BECM). The controller unit 400 is disposed on a side of the stacked plurality of batteries 100 along the stacking direction X of the plurality of batteries 100. The controller unit 400 faces the junction unit 700 along the width direction Y, with the stacked plurality of batteries 100 interposed therebetween. As shown in FIG. 8, the controller unit 400 includes a control board 401, a first socket 402, a second socket 403, a first connector 404, electric wires 405, a harness 406, and an external connector 407. As shown in FIG. 8, the controller unit 400 also includes a case 411 and a lid 412. As shown in FIG. 1, the controller unit 400 also includes a connecting member 421, a first protective member 422, and a second protective member 423. The components included in the controller unit 400 will be described below.

[0054] The control board 401 controls the plurality of batteries 100. The control board 401 includes a ROM storing a program related to the control of the batteries 100, a CPU that controls the batteries 100, and a RAM that temporarily stores the control status of the batteries 100. The control board 401 extends in the stacking direction X as shown in FIG. 8 .

[0055] As shown in Fig. 8, the first socket 402 is attached to one end of the control board 401 along the stacking direction X. As shown in Fig. 5, the first connector 404 is inserted into the first socket 402.

[0056] As shown in Fig. 8, the second socket 403 is attached to the other end of the control board 401 along the stacking direction X. As shown in Fig. 5, the second connector 504 of the voltage detection unit 500 is inserted into the second socket 403.

[0057] 8, the first connector 404 electrically connects the first socket 402 and the electric wire 405. The first connector 404 is configured to be detachable from the first socket 402.

[0058] The electric wires 405 transmit signals related to the control of the battery 100, etc., between the control board 401 and the vehicle-side electrical equipment 1000. One end of each of the two electric wires 405 is connected to an external connection connector 407, as shown in Fig. 12 . The other ends of the two electric wires 405 are connected to the first connector 404. As shown in Fig. 5 , the electric wires 405 extend from the controller unit 400 side (one end) toward the junction unit 700 side (other end) that faces the controller unit 400 side along the width direction Y of the battery 100.

[0059] As shown in Fig. 12 , the harness 406 bundles and covers the electric wires 405, 602, 711, and 712. The harness 406 covering the plurality of electric wires 405 extends from the first connector 404 toward the upper surface of the lid 412 as shown in Fig. 2. The harness 406 that extends to the upper surface of the lid 412 extends along the upper surface of the lid 412 toward the end of the intermediate block 212 of the holding unit 200 as shown in Fig. 5. The harness 406 that extends to the end of the intermediate block 212 extends from the controller unit 400 toward the junction unit 700 while following the upper surface of the intermediate block 212.

[0060] As shown in Fig. 12 , the external connection connector 407 is provided at the tip of the electric wire 405 and is electrically connected to an external device. The external device is, for example, a control device of a vehicle equipped with the battery pack 1. That is, the external connection connector 407 is connected to a socket of an electrical device 1000 provided in the vehicle. Two external connection connectors 407 are shown in Fig. 12 as an example.

[0061] As shown in FIG. 8 , the case 411 is box-shaped and has an opening. The case 411 extends in the stacking direction X. The case 411 houses the control board 401. The case 411 exposes the first socket 402 to the outside at one end along the stacking direction X. The case 411 exposes the second socket 403 to the outside at the other end along the stacking direction X. As shown in FIG. 8 , the case 411 has a plurality of insertion holes 411m formed on its side surface along the stacking direction X, into which fastening bolts 241 are inserted. As shown in FIG. 2 , the case 411 is fixed to the first side plate 231 by the fastening bolts 241. The case 411 has a recess (not shown) formed on the side surface facing the first side plate 231. The recess formed in the case 411 prevents interference with the fastening bolt 241 that fastens the first side plate 231 to the intermediate block 212, and interference with the protrusion formed linearly on the first side plate 231 along the stacking direction X.

[0062] 2, the lid 412 is attached to the case 411. The lid 412, together with the case 411, seals the control board 401.

[0063] 7 , the connection member 421 connects the electric wires covered by the harness to the case 721. The connection member 421 detachably attaches the electric wires to the case 721. The connection member 421 detachably attaches all or part of the electric wires 405, 602, 711, 712, etc. to the case 721 via the harness.

[0064] As shown in FIG. 7 , the connecting member 421 includes a shaft portion 421a and a deformation portion 421b. The shaft portion 421a is formed in a cylindrical shape. The deformation portion 421b is formed integrally with the shaft portion 421a. As shown in FIG. 7 , the deformation portion 421b is inclined with respect to the shaft portion 421a so as to taper radially from the base end portion 421b1 to the tip end portion 421b2 of the connecting member 421. The tip end portion 421b2 of the deformation portion 421b is connected to the shaft portion 421a. The base end portion 421b1 is the portion facing the tip end portion 421b2. The base end portion 421b1 is the farthest from the shaft portion 421a of the deformation portion 421b. Two deformation portions 421b are formed on the shaft portion 421a. The deformation portions 421b face each other across the shaft portion 421a. Three or more deforming portions 421b may be formed on the shaft portion 421a.

[0065] The deformation portion 421b is configured to be elastically deformable from the base end 421b1 toward the tip end 421b2. When pressure is applied from the outside to the inside in the radial direction of the shaft portion 421a, the deformation portion 421b deforms from the base end 421b1 to the tip end 421b2, moving toward the inside in the radial direction of the shaft portion 421a. The connecting member 421 is inserted into and attached to the attachment portion 721b of the case 721. When the connecting member 421 is inserted into the attachment portion 721b of the case 721, the deformation portion 421b elastically deforms toward the shaft portion 421a. After the connecting member 421 is inserted into the attachment portion 721b of the case 721, the deformation portion 421b elastically deforms toward the shaft portion 421a. The base end 421b1 of the connecting member 421 is anchored to the attachment portion 721b. The connecting member 421 is formed, for example, from resin.

[0066] 12 , the first protective member 422 covers and protects the electric wires 405. The first protective member 422 is formed, for example, from a long vinyl tape. The first protective member 422 is wrapped around the electric wires 405. The first protective member 422 covers a part of the electric wires 405 extending from the vicinity of the connection member 421 toward the control board 401.

[0067] 12 , the second protective member 423 covers and protects the electric wire 405. The second protective member 423 is formed, for example, of a cylindrical vinyl tube. The electric wire 405 is inserted into the second protective member 423. The second protective member 423 covers the outer periphery of the electric wire 405 from the vicinity of the connection member 421 to the external connection connector 407.

[0068] (Configuration of voltage detection unit 500) The voltage detection unit 500 shown in Figures 1 to 8 and 11 detects the voltage of the battery 100 based on control by the controller unit 400. As shown in Figure 11, the voltage detection unit 500 includes a voltage detection terminal 501, an electric wire 502, a harness 503, and a second connector 504. The configuration included in the voltage detection unit 500 will be described below.

[0069] 11 , the voltage detection terminal 501 is conductive and formed in a plate shape. The voltage detection terminal 501 is joined to the first end bus bar 301, the plurality of bus bars 302, the intermediate bus bar 303, and the second end bus bar 304 of the bus bar unit 300, respectively.

[0070] 11, the electric wires 502 electrically connect the voltage detection terminals 501 to the control board 401. The electric wires 502 are joined to the respective voltage detection terminals 501.

[0071] 11 , the harness 503 bundles and covers the electric wires 502 at the end of the bus bar holder 321 of the bus bar unit 300. The harness 503 covering the electric wires 502 extends to the second connector 504 as shown in FIG.

[0072] 11, the second connector 504 is connected to each of the electric wires 502 covered by the harness 503. The second connector 504 is inserted into the second socket 403 of the controller unit 400 shown in FIG.

[0073] (Configuration of temperature measurement unit 600) The temperature measurement unit 600 shown in Figures 1 to 8 and 12 measures the temperature of the battery 100 based on the control of the controller unit 400. As shown in Figure 12, the temperature measurement unit 600 includes a temperature sensor 601 and an electric wire 602. The configuration included in the temperature measurement unit 600 will be described below.

[0074] The temperature sensor 601 measures the temperature of the battery 100. As shown in Fig. 5 , the temperature sensor 601 is, for example, joined to the lid 102 of the battery 100 that is located fourth from the first end block 211 toward the intermediate block 212. The temperature sensor 601 is also joined to the lid 102 of the battery 100 that is located third from the intermediate block 212 toward the second end block 213.

[0075] 12, the electric wire 602 electrically connects the temperature sensor 601 and the first connector 404 of the controller unit 400. The electric wire 602 is attached to the harness 406 of the controller unit 400.

[0076] (Configuration of Junction Unit 700) The junction unit 700 shown in FIGS. 1 to 8 and 12 electrically connects a plurality of batteries 100 and an electrical device 1000 based on control by the controller unit 400. The junction unit 700 is generally referred to as a junction box. As shown in FIG. 12 , the junction unit 700 includes a first relay bus bar 701, a second relay bus bar 702, a fuse 703, a third relay bus bar 704, a relay 705, a fourth relay bus bar 706, a current sensor 707, a positive electrode side connection terminal 708, and a negative electrode side connection terminal 709. As shown in FIG. 12 , the junction unit 700 also includes an electric wire 711 and an electric wire 712. As shown in FIG. 6 , the junction unit 700 also includes a case 721, an insert nut 722, and a fastening bolt 723. The components included in the junction unit 700 will be described below.

[0077] As shown in FIG. 5 , the first relay bus bar 701 is joined to the first end bus bar 301. As shown in FIG. 12 , the first relay bus bar 701 includes a plate-shaped first joint portion 701a, a plate-shaped second joint portion 701b, and a curved connecting portion 701c. The first joint portion 701a has a first insertion hole 701d formed therein, into which a fastening bolt 311 of the bus bar unit 300 is inserted. The second joint portion 701b has a second insertion hole 701e formed therein, into which a fastening bolt 723 is inserted. The first joint portion 701a is joined to the first end bus bar 301 via the fastening bolt 311. The second joint portion 701b is connected to the second relay bus bar 702 via the fastening bolt 723. The connecting portion 701c connects the first joint portion 701a and the second joint portion 701b. The connecting portion 701c protrudes toward the battery 100. The first relay bus bar 701 is made of, for example, copper.

[0078] As shown in Fig. 12 , the second relay bus bar 702 connects the first relay bus bar 701 and the fuse 703. The second relay bus bar 702 is formed by bending both ends of a long plate. The second relay bus bar 702 has a rectangular connection portion 702a formed at its upper end. The connection portion 702a is connected to the second joint portion 701b of the first relay bus bar 701. The connection portion 702a has an insertion hole 702b formed therein, into which a fastening bolt 723 is inserted. The second relay bus bar 702 is made of, for example, copper.

[0079] 12, fuse 703 blows when a current exceeding a predetermined value is input for a predetermined period of time. When fuse 703 blows, electrical continuity between multiple batteries 100 and electrical device 1000 is interrupted. Fuse 703 is connected between second relay bus bar 702 and third relay bus bar 704.

[0080] 12, the third relay bus bar 704 connects the fuse 703 and the relay 705. The third relay bus bar 704 is formed in a plate shape and is made of, for example, copper.

[0081] 12 , the relay 705 electrically connects or disconnects the plurality of batteries 100 and the electrical device 1000 based on control by the controller unit 400. The relay 705 is connected between the third relay bus bar 704 and the fourth relay bus bar 706.

[0082] 12 , the fourth relay bus bar 706 connects the relay 705 and the current sensor 707. The fourth relay bus bar 706 is formed in a plate shape and is made of, for example, copper.

[0083] 12 , the current sensor 707 measures the current value of the power output from the plurality of batteries 100 based on the control of the controller unit 400. The current sensor 707 is connected between the fourth relay bus bar 706 and the positive electrode side connection terminal 708.

[0084] As shown in FIG. 1 , the positive connection terminal 708 is connected to a power cable of the electric device 1000. That is, the positive connection terminal 708 corresponds to an input / output terminal for power on the positive side of the battery pack 1. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 12 , the positive connection terminal 708 is joined to the current sensor 707 and the power cable of the electric device 1000. The positive connection terminal 708 is formed with a connection portion 708a to which the power cable of the electric device 1000 is connected. The connection portion 708a is formed with an insertion hole 708b to which a fastening bolt 723 is inserted. The positive connection terminal 708 is connected to the power cable of the electric device 1000 via the fastening bolt 723 inserted into the insertion hole 708b. The positive connection terminal 708 is made of, for example, copper.

[0085] As shown in FIG. 1 , the negative connection terminal 709 is connected to a power cable of the electric device 1000. That is, the negative connection terminal 709 corresponds to a negative power input / output terminal of the battery pack 1. As shown in FIG. 1 , the negative connection terminal 709 is joined to the second end bus bar 304 and the power cable of the electric device 1000. As shown in FIG. 12 , the external shape of the negative connection terminal 709 is the same as the external shape of the first relay bus bar 701. As shown in FIG. 12 , the negative connection terminal 709 includes a plate-shaped first joint portion 709a, a plate-shaped second joint portion 709b, and a curved connecting portion 709c. A first insertion hole 709d is formed in the first joint portion 709a, into which a fastening bolt 311 is inserted. The first joint portion 709a is joined to the second end bus bar 304 via the fastening bolt 311 inserted into the first insertion hole 709d. The second joint portion 709b is formed with a second insertion hole 709e into which a fastening bolt 723 is inserted. The second joint portion 709b is connected to the power cable of the electric device 1000 via the fastening bolt 723 inserted into the second insertion hole 709e. The linking portion 709c of the negative connection terminal 709 links the first joint portion 709a and the second joint portion 709b. The negative connection terminal 709 is made of, for example, copper.

[0086] 12, one end of the electric wire 711 is connected to the relay 705, and the other end is connected to the first connector 404. The electric wire 711 is bundled into the harness 406 between the controller unit 400 and the junction unit 700.

[0087] 12, one end of the electric wire 712 is connected to the current sensor 707, and the other end is connected to the first connector 404. The electric wire 712 is bundled into the harness 406 between the controller unit 400 and the junction unit 700.

[0088] The case 721 is a holding member. The case 721 is attached to the second side plate 232. The case 721 holds components related to input and output of the battery 100. As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the case 721 includes a base 721a, an attachment portion 721b, and an opening 721c.

[0089] The base 721 a is attached to the second side plate 232 .

[0090] 7, the attachment portion 721b penetrates the base portion 721a. The connection member 421 is detachably attached to the attachment portion 721b.

[0091] As shown in FIG. 7 , the opening 721c is adjacent to the mounting portion 721b. The opening 721c is connected to the connecting member 421 that penetrates the base portion 721a. The opening 721c is exposed to the outside when the base portion 721a is attached to the second side plate 232. A plurality of openings 721c are formed in the base portion 721a. Each opening 721c has the same shape. The openings 721c are formed as through holes or notches in the base portion 721a. The openings 721c are formed on the side that faces the battery 100 in a direction that intersects with the stacking direction X across the second side plate 232. The openings 721c are formed in a direction that does not face the battery 100 across the second side plate 232.

[0092] As shown in FIG. 6 , the case 721 houses the second relay bus bar 702, fuse 703, third relay bus bar 704, relay 705, fourth relay bus bar 706, current sensor 707, and positive electrode side connection terminal 708. The first relay bus bar 701 and negative electrode side connection terminal 709 are attached to the top surface of the case 721 shown in FIG. 6 . The case 721 is formed of an insulating material. As shown in FIG. 5 , the case 721 is provided along the stacking direction X of the multiple batteries 100. An insert nut 722 is embedded in the case 721. The connection portion 708a of the positive electrode side connection terminal 708 is attached to the case 721 via the insert nut 722. As shown in FIG. 6 , the case 721 has multiple insertion holes 721m formed on its side surface along the stacking direction X, into which fastening bolts 241 are inserted. 1, the case 721 is fixed to the second side plate 232 by a fastening bolt 241. A fastening bolt 723 is anchored to the insert nut 722 via the negative electrode side connection terminal 709.

[0093] 6 , the fastening bolt 723, together with the insert nut 722, fastens the first relay bus bar 701 and the second relay bus bar 702, thereby enabling electrical continuity between the first relay bus bar 701 and the second relay bus bar 702. The fastening bolt 723, together with the insert nut 722, fastens the positive connection terminal 708 and the power cable of the electric device 1000, thereby enabling electrical continuity between the positive connection terminal 708 and the power cable of the electric device 1000. Similarly, the fastening bolt 723, together with the insert nut 722, fastens the negative connection terminal 709 and the power cable of the electric device 1000, thereby enabling electrical continuity between the negative connection terminal 709 and the power cable of the electric device 1000. The power cable terminal is, for example, a bus bar made of a metal plate.

[0094] (Manufacturing Method and Manufacturing Apparatus of Battery Pack 1) In this embodiment, a manufacturing method and part of a manufacturing apparatus of the battery pack 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 13 to 18. FIG.

[0095] The manufacturing method of the battery pack 1 includes a first mounting step S01, a mooring step S02, a connection step S03, a pressing step S04, a detachment step S05, a joining step S06, a second mounting step S07, and an adjustment step S08. The manufacturing device of the battery pack 1 is an embodiment of the manufacturing method of the battery pack 1.

[0096] (First Attachment Step S01) The first attachment step S01 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0097] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the case 721 is attached to the second side plate 232 holding the plurality of batteries 100, in relation to the manufacturing method and manufacturing apparatus for the battery pack 1.

[0098] The first attachment step S01 is performed before the second attachment step S07. In the first attachment step S01, the case 721 is attached to the second side plate 232. In the first attachment step S01, the base 721a of the case 721 is attached to the second side plate 232 by fastening bolts 241 (bolts). The fastening bolts 241 are screwed into the threaded holes 211m of the first end block 211 and the threaded holes 213m of the second end block 213 via the insertion holes 721m of the case 721 and the insertion holes 232m of the second side plate 232.

[0099] The first mounting step S01 is embodied by a first mounting unit of the battery pack 1 manufacturing apparatus. The first mounting unit moves the case 721 toward and brings it into contact with the second side plate 232. The first mounting unit screws the fastening bolt 241 into the threaded hole 211m of the first end block 211 via the insertion hole 721m of the case 721 and the insertion hole 232m of the second side plate 232. The first mounting unit screws the fastening bolt 241 into the threaded hole 213m of the second end block 213 via the insertion hole 721m of the case 721 and the insertion hole 232m of the second side plate 232.

[0100] (Mooring Step S02) The mooring step S02 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0101] Continuing from FIG. 13, FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram showing a state in which the harness 503 is temporarily fastened to the bus bar holder 321. As shown in FIG.

[0102] The mooring step S02 is performed before the connecting step S03. In the mooring step S02, the harness 503 is moved toward the mooring portion 321e of the bus bar holder 321 along a second direction Y2 opposite to the first direction Y1, and the harness 503 is moored to the mooring portion 321e. The mooring portion 321e includes a first mooring portion 321e1 and a second mooring portion 321e2. The harness 503 is moored to the first mooring portion 321e1 standing up from the covering portion 321a of the bus bar holder 321 and the second mooring portion 321e2 extending in the first direction Y1. The harness 503 covers the electric wires 502.

[0103] The mooring step S02 is embodied by a mooring unit of the battery pack 1 manufacturing equipment. The mooring unit includes a mooring / detaching member 2002. The mooring / detaching member 2002 includes a lever that can rotate clockwise and counterclockwise. The mooring / detaching member 2002 moves the harness 503 toward the mooring portion 321e of the busbar holder 321 along the second direction Y2 to moor the harness 503, and then retracts the harness 503 from the busbar holder 321 along the first direction Y1.

[0104] (Connection Step S03) The connection step S03 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0105] 15 is a schematic diagram illustrating a state in which the busbar holder 321 is brought close to the plurality of batteries 100, following FIG.

[0106] The connecting step S03 is performed after the mooring step S02. By providing the pressing step S04 at the end of the connecting step S03, the second connecting portion 321b of the busbar holder 321 and, for example, the first connecting portion 202b of the cell spacer 202 can be configured to approach or contact each other in the connecting step S03.

[0107] In the connecting step S03, the busbar holder 321 is moved while holding the holding portion 321d, and the first connection portion 202b of the cell spacer 202 is connected to the second connection portion 321b of the busbar holder 321. In the connecting step S03, the holding portion 321d is held by suction. In the connecting step S03, the two holding portions 321d are held. In the connecting step S03, the busbar holder 321 is moved in a state in which the harness 503 is moored by the mooring portion 321e. The harness 503 covers the electric wires 502.

[0108] The connection step S03 is embodied by a connection unit of the battery pack 1 manufacturing equipment. The connection member 2003 includes a cylindrical suction unit, a vacuum pump (not shown), and a three-axis stage (not shown) that supports the suction unit. The joining unit suctions and holds the holding unit 321d of the busbar holder 321, and stops suction on the holding unit 321d to release the holding unit. The connection member 2003 moves in the stacking direction X, width direction Y, and height direction Z while holding the busbar holder 321. The connection member 2003 holds and moves the holding unit 321d of the busbar holder 321, bringing, for example, the first connection unit 202b of the cell spacer 202 and the second connection unit 321b of the busbar holder 321 closer to or into contact with each other.

[0109] (Pressing Step S04) The pressing step S04 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0110] Continuing from FIG. 15, FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram showing a state in which a busbar holder 321 is connected to a spacer between a plurality of batteries 100. As shown in FIG.

[0111] The pressing step S04 is performed at the end of the connecting step S03. The pressing step S04 is not essential. The pressing step S04 is a step that complements the connecting step S03. If the pressing step S04 is not provided in the manufacturing method of the battery pack 1, the second connecting portion 321b of the busbar holder 321 and, for example, the first connecting portion 202b of the cell spacer 202 are connected only by the connecting step S03.

[0112] In the pressing step S04, the second connection portion 321b of the busbar holder 321 is moved downward in the height direction Z. In the pressing step S04, the second connection portion 321b of the busbar holder 321 is pressed toward the first connection portion 202b of the cell spacer 202. The second connection portion 321b of the busbar holder 321 is connected to the first connection portion 202b of the cell spacer 202.

[0113] The pressing step S04 is embodied by a pressing unit of the manufacturing equipment for the battery pack 1. The pressing unit includes a pair of pressing members 2004. The pair of pressing members 2004 are arranged along the stacking direction X of the busbar holder 321. The pair of pressing members 2004 are arranged facing each other on both sides of the busbar holder 321 in the width direction Y. The pair of pressing members 2004 are configured to be movable along the height direction Z. The pair of pressing members 2004 move downward in the height direction Z to press the busbar holder 321 downward in the height direction Z. The second connection portion 321b of the busbar holder 321 is connected to the first connection portion 202b of the cell spacer 202, etc. The pair of pressing members 2004 move upward in the height direction Z to move away from the busbar holder 321.

[0114] (Removal Step S05) The removal step S05 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0115] 17 is a schematic diagram illustrating a state in which the harness 503 is being removed from the bus bar holder 321, following FIG.

[0116] The detaching step S05 is performed after the pressing step S04 or together with the pressing step S04. The detaching step S05 may be performed after the joining step S06. If the detaching step S05 is performed after the joining step S06, the harness 503 may be temporarily fixed using a fixing member that prevents movement, etc. In the detaching step S05, the harness 503 is moved away from the mooring portion 321e along the first direction Y1 to detach the harness 503 from the mooring portion 321e. The mooring portion 321e includes a first mooring portion 321e1 and a second mooring portion 321e2. The harness 503 is detached from the first mooring portion 321e1 that stands up from the covering portion 321a of the busbar holder 321 and the second mooring portion 321e2 that extends in the first direction Y1. The harness 503 covers the electric wires 502. The second connector 504 attached to the harness 503 is attached to the second socket 403 of the controller unit 400. The second connector 504 may be temporarily fastened without being attached to the second socket 403.

[0117] The detachment step S05 is embodied by a detachment unit of the manufacturing apparatus for the battery pack 1. The detachment unit includes a mooring / detachment member 2002. The mooring / detachment member 2002 moves the harness 503 away from the mooring portion 321e of the busbar holder 321 along the first direction Y1, and retracts the harness 503 from the busbar holder 321 along the first direction Y1.

[0118] (Bonding Step S06) The bonding step S06 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0119] Continuing from FIG. 17, FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the bus bar 302 and the like are being welded to the electrode terminals of the battery 100. As shown in FIG.

[0120] The joining step S06 is performed after the detaching step S05. In the joining step S06, the first end bus bar 301, the bus bar 302, and the second end bus bar 304 are welded to the positive terminal 103 or the negative terminal 104 of the battery 100, for example, by laser welding.

[0121] The joining step S06 is embodied by a joining section of the manufacturing equipment for the battery pack 1. The joining section includes a laser welder 2005. The laser welder 2005 laser-welds the first end bus bar 301, the bus bar 302, and the second end bus bar 304 to the positive terminal 103 or the negative terminal 104 of the battery 100 while scanning with a laser beam using a mirror or a moving stage.

[0122] (Second Attachment Step S07) The second attachment step S07 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0123] 19 is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the connecting member 421 is attached to the case 721, following FIG. 13. FIG.

[0124] The second attachment step S07 is performed after the first attachment step S01 and before the adjustment step S08. In the second attachment step S07, the connecting member 421 is attached to the case 721. In the second attachment step S07, the connecting member 421 is inserted into the attachment portion 721b of the case 721 and attached. When the connecting member 421 is pressed against the attachment portion 721b of the case 721, the deformation portion 421b of the connecting member 421 elastically deforms in a direction approaching the shaft portion 421a. In other words, the deformation portion 421b of the connecting member 421 deforms from the base end portion 421b1 to the tip end portion 421b2 so as to approach the shaft portion 421a. As a result, the connecting member 421 is inserted into the attachment portion 721b. The connecting member 421 inserted into the attachment portion 721b elastically deforms in a direction away from the shaft portion 421a. As a result, the base end portion 421b1 of the deformation portion 421b is anchored to the attachment portion 721b.

[0125] The second attachment step S07 is embodied by a second attachment unit of the manufacturing apparatus for the battery pack 1. The second attachment unit moves the connection member 421 toward the case 721 to bring the connection member 421 into contact with the attachment portion 721b. The second attachment unit presses the connection member 421 against the attachment portion 721b and inserts the connection member 421 into the attachment portion 721b to attach it.

[0126] (Adjusting Step S08) The adjusting step S08 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0127] 20 is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the connecting member 421 removed from the case 721 is reattached to the case 721, following FIG.

[0128] The adjustment step S08 is performed after the second attachment step S07. In the adjustment step S08, the connecting member 421 is adjusted while the case 721 is attached to the second side plate 232. That is, in the adjustment step S08, the connecting member 421 is adjusted through the opening 721c of the case 721. In the adjustment step S08, the connecting member 421 is removed from, for example, the attachment portion 721b of the case 721 through the opening 721c of the case 721. In the adjustment step S08, the removed connecting member 421 is reattached to the attachment portion 721b of the case 721 while, for example, changing the orientation of the harness 503 fastened to the connecting member 421. The harness 503 covers the electric wires 502. In this case, it is assumed that the harness 503 is re-routed in the orientation specified, for example. That is, in this case, in order to attach the harness 503 to the case 721 in the orientation as specified, the connecting member 421 that has been removed and reoriented is attached to the attachment portion 721 b of the case 721 .

[0129] In the adjustment step S08, a different connection member 421 different from the removed connection member 421 may be attached to the attachment portion 721b of the case 721. A different harness 503 different from the harness 503 fastened to the removed connection member 421 is fastened to the different connection member 421. The harness 503 covers the electric wires 502. In this case, it is assumed, for example, that a different harness 503 according to the specifications is rerouted. That is, in this case, in order to attach the correct harness 503 according to the specifications to the case 721, a different connection member 421 different from the removed connection member 421 is attached to the attachment portion 721b of the case 721.

[0130] In the adjustment step S08, the connecting member 421 may be removed, for example, about halfway from the mounting portion 721b and then reattached to the mounting portion 721b without being completely removed from the mounting portion 721b. In this case, it is assumed, for example, that the harness 503 is re-routed in the orientation specified. That is, in this case, in order to attach the harness 503 to the case 721 in the orientation specified, the connecting member 421 is removed, for example, about halfway and reoriented, and then attached to the mounting portion 721b of the case 721. Furthermore, in this case, it is assumed, for example, that if the connecting member 421 is not fully attached to the mounting portion 721b of the case 721, the connecting member 421 is reattached to the mounting portion 721b of the case 721. That is, in this case, in order to fully attach the connecting member 421 to the mounting portion 721b of the case 721, the connecting member 421 is removed, for example, about halfway, and then attached to the mounting portion 721b of the case 721.

[0131] The adjusting step S08 is embodied by an adjusting unit of the manufacturing apparatus for the battery pack 1. The adjusting unit includes an adjusting member 2001. After the connecting member 421 is attached to the attachment portion 721b of the case 721 using the adjusting member 2001, the connecting member 421 is adjusted via the opening 721c. That is, in the adjusting step S08, the connecting member 421 attached to the attachment portion 721b of the case 721 is adjusted via the opening 721c of the case 721 using the adjusting member 2001. The adjusting member 2001 includes a V-shaped pressing portion 2001a. When the pressing portion 2001a of the adjusting member 2001 is pressed against the deforming portion 421b of the connecting member 421, the deforming portion 421b of the connecting member 421 elastically deforms toward the shaft portion 421a. That is, the deforming portion 421b of the connecting member 421 deforms from the base end 421b1 to the tip end 421b2 so as to approach the shaft portion 421a. As a result, the base end 421b1 of the connecting member 421 is released from the attachment portion 721b of the case 721. In this state, when the connecting member 421 is moved to the outside of the case 721, the connecting member 421 is detached from the case 721.

[0132] (Method of Manufacturing Battery Assembly 1, Apparatus for Manufacturing Battery Assembly 1, and Effects of Battery Assembly 1 of the Embodiment) A method of manufacturing battery assembly 1, an apparatus for manufacturing battery assembly 1, and effects of battery assembly 1 of the embodiment will be described.

[0133] (1) The manufacturing method of the battery pack 1 includes a connection step S03. In the connection step S03, the busbar holder 321 is moved while holding the holding portion 321d, and the first connection portion 202b of the cell spacer 202 and the second connection portion 321b of the busbar holder 321 are connected to each other.

[0134] (14) The manufacturing device for the battery pack 1 has a moving unit. The moving unit holds and moves the holding portion 321d of the busbar holder 321 to connect the first connection portion 202b of the cell spacer 202 and the second connection portion 321b of the busbar holder 321.

[0135] (15) The battery pack 1 includes a plurality of batteries 100, a cell spacer 202 provided between the first battery 100 and the second battery 100, and a busbar holder 321 connected to the cell spacer 202 and covering the first battery 100 and the second battery 100. The cell spacer 202 includes a main body 202a located between the first battery 100 and the second battery 100, and a first connection portion 202b protruding outward from the main body 202a. The busbar holder 321 includes a covering portion 321a that covers the first battery 100 and the second battery 100, a second connection portion 321b that is formed on the covering portion 321a and connected to the first connection portion 202b, a reinforcing portion 321c that is formed on the covering portion 321a and adjacent to the second connection portion 321b and that reinforces the second connection portion 321b, and a holding portion 321d that is formed in a flat shape on the covering portion 321a.

[0136] According to this configuration, the busbar holder 321 can be moved using the holding portion 321d of the busbar holder 321, and the cell spacer 202 and the busbar holder 321 can be sufficiently connected.

[0137] (2) In the method for manufacturing the battery pack 1, in the connection step S03, the holding portion 321d is held by suction. In the connection step S03, the holding portion 321d may be held by suction.

[0138] According to this configuration, the busbar holder 321 can be moved while being sufficiently held by the holding portion 321d of the busbar holder 321 that is attracted.

[0139] (3) In the method for manufacturing the battery pack 1, the busbar holder 321 includes two holding portions 321d spaced apart from each other. In the method for manufacturing the battery pack 1, the two holding portions 321d are held in the connection step S03. The busbar holder 321 may include three or more holding portions 321d. In the connection step S03, three or more holding portions 321d may be held.

[0140] According to this configuration, the busbar holder 321 can be moved while being sufficiently held via the two or more holding portions 321d of the busbar holder 321.

[0141] (4) The manufacturing method of the battery pack 1 includes a pressing step S04. The pressing step S04 is performed together with the connecting step S03. The pressing step S04 is performed in the latter half of the connecting step S03. In the pressing step S04, the second connection portion 321b of the busbar holder 321 is pressed toward the first connection portion 202b of the cell spacer 202. In the pressing step S04, the first connection portion 202b of the cell spacer 202 may be pressed toward the second connection portion 321b of the busbar holder 321. In the pressing step S04, the first connection portion 202b of the cell spacer 202 may be pressed toward the second connection portion 321b of the busbar holder 321, and the second connection portion 321b of the busbar holder 321 may be pressed toward the first connection portion 202b of the cell spacer 202.

[0142] With this configuration, the first connection portion 202b of the cell spacer 202 and the second connection portion 321b of the busbar holder 321 can be connected sufficiently.

[0143] (5) In the method for manufacturing the battery pack 1, the battery pack 1 has electric wires that are indirectly connected to the batteries 100 via a bus bar or the like. The battery pack 1 may also have electric wires that are directly connected to the batteries 100. The bus bar holder 321 includes a mooring portion 321e that moor the electric wires covered by the harness 503. In the method for manufacturing the battery pack 1, in the connection step S03, the bus bar holder 321 is moved in a state in which the electric wires covered by the harness 503 are moored at the mooring portion 321e. In the embodiment, the harness 503 in which the electric wires 502 are bundled is used, but the electric wires 502 themselves may also be used.

[0144] With this configuration, the bus bar holder 321 to which the electric wires are moored can be moved.

[0145] (6) In the manufacturing method of the battery pack 1, the busbar holder 321 includes a mooring portion 321e including a first mooring portion 321e1 that stands up from the covering portion 321a and a second mooring portion 321e2 that extends from the tip side of the first mooring portion 321e1 in the first direction Y1 that intersects with the first mooring portion 321e1. The manufacturing method of the battery pack 1 includes a mooring step S02. The mooring step S02 is performed before the connecting step S03. The mooring step S02 may be performed together with the connecting step S03. When the mooring step S02 is performed together with the connecting step S03, it is performed, for example, in the first half of the connecting step S03. In the mooring step S02, the electric wires covered by the harness 503 are moved toward the mooring portion 321 e along a second direction Y2 opposite to the first direction Y1, and the electric wires covered by the harness 503 are moored to the mooring portion 321 e. In the embodiment, the harness 503 in which the electric wires 502 are bundled is used, but the electric wires 502 themselves may also be used.

[0146] According to this configuration, when connecting the cell spacer 202 and the bus bar holder 321, the electric wires can be easily anchored to the bus bar holder 321.

[0147] (7) The busbar holder 321 includes a mooring portion 321e including a first mooring portion 321e1 that stands up from the covering portion 321a and a second mooring portion 321e2 that extends from the tip of the first mooring portion 321e1 in a first direction Y1 that intersects with the first mooring portion 321e1. The manufacturing method of the battery pack 1 includes a detaching step S05. The detaching step S05 is performed after the connecting step S03. The detaching step S05 may be performed together with the connecting step S03. When the detaching step S05 is performed together with the connecting step S03, it is performed, for example, in the latter half of the connecting step S03. In the detaching step S05, the harness 503 is moved away from the mooring portion 321e along the first direction Y1 to detach the harness 503 from the mooring portion 321e. In the embodiment, the harness 503 in which the electric wires 502 are bundled is used, but the electric wires 502 themselves may also be used.

[0148] According to this configuration, when connecting the cell spacer 202 and the bus bar holder 321, the electric wires can be easily detached from the bus bar holder 321.

[0149] (8) The cell spacer 202 has the first connection portion 202b formed on at least one end in the width direction Y that intersects with the stacking direction X of the first battery 100 and the second battery 100. The busbar holder 321 has the second connection portion 321b formed on at least one end in the width direction Y that faces the first connection portion 202b.

[0150] With this configuration, a first connection portion 202b is formed at one end of the cell spacer 202, and a second connection portion 321b is formed at one end of the busbar holder 321, so that even if the connection is relatively difficult, the cell spacer 202 and the busbar holder 321 can be sufficiently connected.

[0151] (9) The busbar holder 321 used has the second connection portions 321b formed on both ends of the covering portion 321a in the width direction Y that intersects with the stacking direction X of the first battery 100 and the second battery 100. The busbar holder 321 used has the holding portion 321d located between the second connection portions 321b formed on both ends of the covering portion 321a.

[0152] With this configuration, a first connection portion 202b is formed at both ends of the cell spacer 202, and a second connection portion 321b is formed at both ends of the busbar holder 321 via a holding portion 321d, so that even if connection is relatively difficult, the cell spacer 202 and the busbar holder 321 can be sufficiently connected.

[0153] (10) The cell spacer 202 has a first connection portion 202b including a convex protrusion. The busbar holder 321 has a second connection portion 321b including a concave recess into which the protrusion is inserted.

[0154] According to this configuration, the first connecting portion 202b of the cell spacer 202 and the second connecting portion 321b of the bus bar holder 321 can be realized in a shape that is highly versatile and easy to manufacture.

[0155] (11) The busbar holder 321 has a plurality of second connection portions 321b formed along the stacking direction X of the first battery 100 and the second battery 100.

[0156] According to this configuration, it is possible to realize the busbar holder 321 in which the plurality of second connection portions 321b are formed.

[0157] (12) The busbar holder 321 includes a reinforcing portion 321c having one or more protruding portions protruding from the covering portion 321a.

[0158] According to this configuration, the reinforcing portion 321c of the busbar holder 321 can be realized in a shape that is highly versatile and easy to manufacture.

[0159] (13) The battery pack 1 includes an intermediate block 212 that is provided between the third battery 100 and the fourth battery 100 and is covered by a busbar holder 321. The busbar holder 321 has a holding portion 321d that faces the intermediate block 212 with the covering portion 321a interposed therebetween.

[0160] According to this configuration, the holding portion 321 d can be formed in the busbar holder 321 in an area that does not face the batteries 100 , which is related to the energy density of the battery pack 1 .

[0161] (Battery Assembly of Other Embodiments) The battery assembly of the present invention is not limited to the configuration of the battery assembly described in the embodiments, and can be configured appropriately based on the content described in the claims.

[0162] The embodiments are described in detail or simply to make the present invention easier to understand, and do not necessarily include all of the components described, or may include components not shown. Also, some of the components of the embodiments may be deleted, replaced with components of other embodiments, or combined with components of other embodiments.

[0163] The number of batteries 100 included in the battery pack 1 is not limited to 12. The number of batteries 100 may be, for example, 2 to 11 or 13 or more. The batteries 100 are not limited to lithium-ion batteries. For example, nickel-metal hydride batteries and lead-acid batteries can be used as the batteries 100. The batteries 100 are not limited to secondary batteries. For example, primary batteries can be used as the batteries 100.

[0164] DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Battery pack, 100 Battery, 100a Top surface, 100b Side surface, 100c Main surface, 101 Container, 102 Lid, 103 Positive electrode terminal, 104 Negative electrode terminal, 105 Safety valve, 200 Holding unit, 201 First end spacer, 202 Cell spacer, 202a Main body, 202b First connection portion, 203 First intermediate spacer, 204 Second intermediate spacer, 205 Second end spacer, 211 First end block, 211m Screw hole, 211n Screw hole, 212 Intermediate block, 212m Screw hole, 213 Second end block, 213m Screw hole, 221 Insulating member, 222 Insert nut, 231 First side plate, 231m Insertion hole, 231n insertion hole, 232 second side plate (support member), 232m insertion hole, 232n insertion hole, 241 fastening bolt, 300 bus bar unit, 301 first end bus bar, 301a first joint portion, 301b second joint portion, 301c connecting portion, 301d insertion hole, 302 bus bar, 302a first joint portion, 302b second joint portion, 302c connecting portion, 303 intermediate bus bar, 303a first joint portion, 303b second joint portion, 303c connecting portion, 304 second end bus bar, 304a first joint portion, 304b second joint portion, 304c connecting portion, 304d insertion hole, 311 fastening bolt, 321 bus bar holder, 321a Covering portion, 321b Second connection portion, 321c Reinforcement portion, 321d Holding portion, 321e Mooring portion, 321e1 First mooring portion, 321e2 Second mooring portion, 321f Opening portion, 321g Mooring portion, 321h Insertion portion, 400 Controller unit, 401 Control board, 402 First socket, 403 Second socket, 404 First connector, 405 Electric wire, 406 Harness, 407 External connection connector, 411 Case, 411m Insertion hole, 412 Lid, 421 Connection member, 421a Shaft portion, 421b Deformation portion,421b1 Base end portion, 421b2 Tip portion, 422 First protective member, 423 Second protective member, 500 Voltage detection unit, 501 Voltage detection terminal, 502 Electric wire, 503 Harness, 504 Second connector, 600 Temperature measurement unit, 601 Temperature sensor, 602 Electric wire, 700 Junction unit, 701 First relay bus bar, 701a First joint portion, 701b Second joint portion, 701c Coupling portion, 701d First insertion hole, 701e Second insertion hole, 702 Second relay bus bar, 702a Connection portion, 702b Insertion hole, 703 Fuse, 704 Third relay bus bar, 705 Relay, 706 Fourth relay bus bar, 707 Current sensor, 708 Positive electrode side connection terminal, 708a Connection portion, 708b Insertion hole, 709 Negative electrode side connection terminal, 709a First joint portion, 709b Second joint portion, 709c Linking portion, 709d First insertion hole, 709e Second insertion hole, 711 Electric wire, 712 Electric wire, 721 Case (holding member), 721a Base portion, 721b Mounting portion, 721c Opening portion, 721m Insertion hole, 722 Insert nut, 723 Fastening bolt, 1000 Electrical equipment, 2001 Adjustment member, 2001a Pressing portion, 2002 Mooring / release member, 2003 Connecting member, 2004 Pressing member, 2005 Laser welder, S01 First mounting step, S02 Mooring process, S03 Connection process, S04 Pressing process, S05 Detachment process, S06 Joining process, S07 Second attachment process, S08 Adjustment process, X (of battery 100) stacking direction, Y (of battery 100) width direction, Y1 (in width direction Y) first direction, Y2 (in width direction Y) second direction, Z (of battery 100) height direction.

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing an assembled battery having a plurality of batteries, a spacer provided between a first battery and a second battery, and a cover connected to the spacer and covering the first battery and the second battery, wherein the spacer includes a main body portion located between the first battery and the second battery, and a first connection portion protruding outward from the main body portion, and the cover includes a covering portion covering the first battery and the second battery, a second connection portion formed on the covering portion and connected to the first connection portion, a reinforcing portion formed on the covering portion and adjacent to the second connection portion, and a holding portion formed in a planar shape on the covering portion, and the method for manufacturing an assembled battery includes a connection step of holding the holding portion and moving the cover to connect the first connection portion of the spacer and the second connection portion of the cover.

2. The method for manufacturing a battery pack according to claim 1, wherein in the connecting step, the holding portion is held by suction or adsorption.

3. The method for manufacturing a battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the cover includes two or more of the retaining portions spaced apart from each other, and the two or more retaining portions are retained in the connection step.

4. The method for manufacturing a battery pack according to claim 1, further comprising, in addition to the connecting step, a pressing step of pressing the first connecting portion of the spacer and the second connecting portion of the cover against each other.

5. A method for manufacturing a battery pack as described in claim 1, wherein the battery pack further has electric wires indirectly or directly connected to the batteries, the cover further includes a mooring portion formed in the covering portion for mooring the electric wires, and in the connecting step, the cover is moved with the electric wires moored at the mooring portion.

6. A method for manufacturing a battery pack as described in claim 5, wherein the cover uses a mooring portion including a first mooring portion standing from the covering portion and a second mooring portion extending from a tip side of the first mooring portion in a first direction intersecting with the first mooring portion, and further comprising a mooring step, performed before or together with the connecting step, of moving the electric wires toward the mooring portion in a second direction opposite to the first direction, thereby mooring the electric wires to the mooring portion.

7. A method for manufacturing a battery pack as described in claim 5, wherein the cover uses a mooring portion including a first mooring portion standing from the covering portion and a second mooring portion extending from a tip side of the first mooring portion in a first direction intersecting with the first mooring portion, and further comprising a detaching step, after the connecting step or together with the connecting step, of moving the electric wire away from the mooring portion along the first direction to detach the electric wire from the mooring portion.

8. A method for manufacturing a battery pack as claimed in claim 1, wherein the spacer has the first connection portion formed on at least one end side in a cross direction that crosses the stacking direction of the first battery and the second battery, and the cover has the second connection portion formed on at least one end side in the cross direction and facing the first connection portion.

9. A method for manufacturing a battery pack as described in claim 1, wherein the cover is such that the second connection portions are formed on both end sides of the covering portion in a direction intersecting with the stacking direction of the first battery and the second battery, and the holding portion is located between the second connection portions formed on both end sides of the covering portion.

10. A method for manufacturing a battery pack as described in claim 1, wherein the spacer has a first connection portion including a convex projection, and the cover has a second connection portion including a concave recess into which the projection is inserted.

11. The method for manufacturing a battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the cover has a plurality of second connection parts formed along the stacking direction of the first battery and the second battery.

12. The method for manufacturing a battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the cover includes a configuration in which the reinforcing portion has one or more protruding portions protruding from the covering portion.

13. A method for manufacturing a battery pack as described in claim 1, wherein the battery pack further comprises an intermediate member that is provided between a third battery and a fourth battery, is covered by the cover and holds the batteries, and the cover has a holding portion that faces the intermediate member via the covering portion.

14. A method for manufacturing an assembled battery having a plurality of batteries, a spacer provided between a first battery and a second battery, and a cover connected to the spacer and covering the first battery and the second battery, wherein the spacer includes a main body portion located between the first battery and the second battery, and a first connection portion protruding outward from the main body portion, and the cover includes a covering portion covering the first battery and the second battery, a second connection portion formed on the covering portion and connected to the first connection portion, a reinforcing portion formed on the covering portion and adjacent to the second connection portion for reinforcing the second connection portion, and a holding portion formed in a planar shape on the covering portion, and a manufacturing apparatus for an assembled battery having a moving portion that holds and moves the holding portion to connect the first connection portion of the spacer and the second connection portion of the cover.

15. An assembled battery comprising: a plurality of batteries; a spacer provided between a first battery and a second battery; and a cover connected to the spacer and covering the first battery and the second battery, wherein the spacer includes a main body portion located between the first battery and the second battery, and a first connection portion protruding outward from the main body portion, and the cover includes a covering portion covering the first battery and the second battery, a second connection portion formed on the covering portion and connected to the first connection portion, a reinforcing portion formed on the covering portion adjacent to the second connection portion and reinforcing the second connection portion, and a holding portion formed in a planar shape on the covering portion.

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