Equipment module

Abstract

This equipment module switches the series connection and the parallel connection of a first battery and a second battery. The equipment module is provided with a series relay (26) and parallel relays (53, 54). The series relay has: a series fixed terminal (160S); a series movable terminal (170S) that comes into contact with and separates from the series fixed terminal; and a series rod (129S) that is passed through the series movable terminal so as to guide the movement of the series movable terminal. The parallel relay has parallel fixed terminals (160N, 160P), parallel movable terminals (170N, 170P) that come into contact with and separate from the parallel fixed terminals, and parallel rods (129N, 129P) that are respectively passed through the parallel movable terminals so as to guide the movement of the parallel movable terminals. The extension direction of the series rod and the extension direction of each of the parallel rods are different.

Description

Equipment Module CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is based on Patent Application No. 2023-196231 filed in Japan on November 17, 2023, and the contents of the original application are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0002] The disclosure herein relates to instrument modules.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes a vehicle equipped with a power storage device. The power storage device includes two battery modules and three relays. One relay is provided on an electric wire connecting the positive electrodes of the two battery modules. Another relay is provided on an electric wire connecting the positive electrode of one battery module and the negative electrode of another battery module. A further relay is provided on an electric wire connecting the negative electrodes of the two battery modules. The three relays are arranged in a circuit including the two battery modules in a manner that allows them to be switched between a series state and a parallel state.

[0004] Patent No. 6992540

[0005] When electromagnetic mechanical relays are used as switches, there is a risk that three relays may be unintentionally turned on simultaneously if a large vibration or the like occurs.

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an equipment module that prevents the series relay and the parallel relay from being unintentionally turned on at the same time.

[0007] An equipment module according to one aspect of the present disclosure is an equipment module that switches between a series connection and a parallel connection of a first battery and a second battery, and includes: a series relay that connects the first battery and the second battery in series; and a parallel relay that connects the first battery and the second battery in parallel, wherein the series relay and the parallel relay have fixed connection terminals that are electrically connected to different current paths, the series relay has a series fixed terminal that is a fixed connection terminal possessed by the series relay, a series movable terminal that makes contact with and separates from the series fixed terminal, and a series rod that is passed through the series movable terminal to guide movement of the series movable terminal, and the parallel relay has a parallel fixed terminal that is a fixed connection terminal possessed by the parallel relay, a parallel movable terminal that makes contact with and separates from the parallel fixed terminal, and a parallel rod that is passed through the parallel movable terminal to guide movement of the parallel movable terminal, and the extension direction of the series rod is different from the extension direction of the parallel rod.

[0008] This prevents the series relay and the parallel relay from being unintentionally turned on at the same time due to large vibrations or the like.

[0009] It should be noted that the reference numerals in the appended claims merely indicate the corresponding relationships with the configurations described in the embodiments to be described later, and do not in any way limit the technical scope.

[0010] 1 is a schematic diagram for explaining a power supply system; FIG. 2 is a circuit diagram for explaining a current path during driving; FIG. 3 is a circuit diagram for explaining a current path during charging; FIG. 4 is a circuit diagram for explaining a current path during charging; FIG. 5 is a top view of an equipment module; FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a relay; FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a series relay and a parallel relay extracted from an equipment module; FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of a series relay and a parallel relay extracted from an equipment module in a second embodiment; FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of a series relay and a parallel relay extracted from an equipment module in a third embodiment; and FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a series relay and a parallel relay extracted from an equipment module in a fourth embodiment.

[0011] Hereinafter, several embodiments for carrying out the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In each embodiment, parts corresponding to matters described in the preceding embodiment will be assigned the same reference numerals, and duplicated explanations may be omitted. In each embodiment, when only a part of the configuration is described, the other previously described embodiments may be applied to the other parts of the configuration.

[0012] In addition, it is not only possible to combine parts that are explicitly stated as being possible in each embodiment, but it is also possible to partially combine embodiments, embodiments and variants, and variants even if not explicitly stated, as long as there are no particular problems with the combination.

[0013] (First embodiment) A high-voltage junction box (hereinafter referred to as high-voltage J / B) 10 according to the first embodiment shown in Fig. 1 is used in an electric vehicle such as a BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle). The high-voltage J / B 10 is mounted on the electric vehicle together with a battery device 2, a power conversion device 3, a charging inlet 4, etc. The high-voltage J / B 10 is electrically connected to the battery device 2, the power conversion device 3, the charging inlet 4, etc. The high-voltage J / B 10 may be referred to as an equipment module. The battery device 2 may be referred to as a power supply device.

[0014] The battery device 2 has a first battery 2A and a second battery 2B. The first battery 2A and the second battery 2B each include a plurality of battery cells. These battery cells are, for example, secondary batteries such as lithium batteries. The first battery 2A and the second battery 2B are configured by electrically connecting a plurality of battery cells in series. The first battery 2A may be referred to as the first battery. The second battery 2B may be referred to as the second battery.

[0015] In this embodiment, the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B include the same number of battery cells. The first battery 2A and the second battery 2B output a power supply of approximately 400 V. The power supply power is sometimes referred to as output power. The first battery 2A or the second battery 2B individually outputs a power supply of approximately 400 V. Alternatively, the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B output a combined power supply of approximately 800 V. When the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B are connected in series, the rated voltage of the battery device 2 is 800 V. When the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B are connected in parallel, the rated voltage of the battery device 2 is 400 V. Note that the voltages of the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B do not have to be the same.

[0016] Such switching of the power supply output is performed by the high voltage J / B 10. The high voltage J / B 10 may be referred to as a power distribution device. By switching the power supply output by the high voltage J / B 10, power supply of approximately 400 V or approximately 800 V is supplied to the power conversion device 3.

[0017] The power conversion device 3 mainly has an inverter. The inverter is connected to the motor generator of the electric vehicle. The inverter converts the supplied DC power into AC power. This AC power is supplied to the motor generator. The motor generator runs using this AC power. The running wheels of the electric vehicle rotate autonomously through power running. The motor generator also converts the kinetic energy of the running wheels into electrical energy. The motor generator generates electricity regeneratively. The AC power generated by regenerative power generation is converted into DC power by the power conversion device 3. This DC power is supplied to the battery device 2 via the high-voltage J / B 10.

[0018] A charging cable from a charging stand 6 provided outside the vehicle is connected to the charging inlet 4. DC power for charging the battery 2 is applied to the charging inlet 4. The charging inlet 4 supplies the DC power input from the charging stand 6 to the high-voltage J / B 10. The charging stand 6 is provided in a charging facility or the like. Charging from the charging stand 6 to the battery 2 is performed via the charging inlet 4. The charging stand 6 is sometimes referred to as an external charger. The charging stand 6 includes a normal charger and a quick charger.

[0019] An example of a normal charger includes a single-phase AC power supply with a voltage of 200V or 100V, and is configured to supply AC power with an output of approximately 3kW (voltage 200V, maximum current 15A). An example of a quick charger is configured to supply DC power with a maximum output of 160kW (maximum voltage 400V, maximum current 400A). This quick charger is sometimes referred to as a low-voltage quick charger. Another example of a quick charger is configured to supply DC power with a maximum output of 160kW (maximum voltage 800V, maximum current 200A). This quick charger is sometimes referred to as a high-voltage quick charger.

[0020] Rapid charging is a charging method that aims to charge the battery 2 in a short time by passing a large current through the battery 2. Rapid charging uses a direct current to charge the battery 2. Charging in this embodiment can also be called DC (Direct Current) charging. Note that the large current is a current larger than that in normal charging. A short time is a time shorter than that in normal charging. In this embodiment, an example is adopted in which charging of the battery 2 from the charging stand 6 is performed using a rapid charger.

[0021] The high voltage J / B 10 includes a power control circuit 70 and a fixing base 80 to which the power control circuit 70 is fixed. The power control circuit 70 includes a plurality of current paths. The power control circuit 70 switches between the plurality of current paths. The power control circuit 70 includes a first wiring 20, a second wiring 30, and a third wiring 50. The first wiring 20, the second wiring 30, and the third wiring 50 are formed of copper plate members such as bus bars.

[0022] The first wiring 20 is a power line that connects the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B in series and is connected to the power conversion device 3. The first wiring 20 has a first connection piece 21, a second connection piece 22, and a third connection piece 23. The first connection piece 21 connects the power conversion device 3 and the first battery 2A. The second connection piece 22 connects the power conversion device 3 and the second battery 2B. The third connection piece 23 connects the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B. The first connection piece 21 connects the positive electrode 3A of the power conversion device 3 to the positive electrode of the first battery 2A. The second connection piece 22 connects the negative electrode 3B of the power conversion device 3 to the negative electrode of the second battery 2B. The third connection piece 23 connects the negative electrode of the first battery 2A to the positive electrode of the second battery 2B.

[0023] The second wiring 30 is a power line connected to the first wiring 20 and the charging inlet 4. The second wiring 30 includes a positive-side second wiring 31 and a negative-side second wiring 32. The positive-side second wiring 31 connects the first connection piece 21 to the positive side of the charging inlet 4. The negative-side second wiring 32 connects the second connection piece 22 to the negative side of the charging inlet 4. The charging inlet 4 includes a positive-side charging inlet 4A that connects to the positive electrode 6A of the charging stand 6 and a negative-side charging inlet 4B that connects to the negative electrode 6B of the charging stand 6. The first connection piece 21 and the positive-side second wiring 31 are electrically connected at a first connection portion 41. The third connection piece 23 and the negative-side second wiring 32 are electrically connected at a second connection portion 42.

[0024] The third wiring 50 is a power line connected to the second connection piece 22 and the connection portions 41, 42. The third wiring 50 has a positive-side third wiring 51 and a negative-side third wiring 52. The positive-side third wiring 51 connects the third connection piece 23 and the first connection portion 41. The negative-side third wiring 52 connects the third connection piece 23 and the second connection portion 42.

[0025] In addition to the wiring 20, 30, and 50, the power control circuit 70 also has seven relays 24, 25, 26, 33, 34, 53, and 54. The seven relays 24, 25, 26, 33, 34, 53, and 54 are system main relays 24 and 25, switching relays 26, 53, and 54, and charging relays 33 and 34. The system main relays 24 and 25 have a positive-side system main relay 24 and a negative-side system main relay 25. The switching relays 26, 53, and 54 have a series relay 26 and parallel relays 53 and 54. The parallel relays 53 and 54 have a positive-side parallel relay 54 and a negative-side parallel relay 53. The charging relays 33 and 34 have a positive-side charging relay 33 and a negative-side charging relay 34. The positive-side parallel relay 54 is sometimes referred to as the first parallel relay. The negative-side parallel relay 53 is sometimes referred to as the second parallel relay.

[0026] A positive system main relay 24 is provided in the first connection piece 21. The positive system main relay 24 is provided in the first connection piece 21, between the connection portion of the power conversion device 3 and the first connection portion 41. A negative system main relay 25 is provided in the second connection piece 22. The negative system main relay 25 is provided in the second connection piece 22, between the connection portion of the power conversion device 3 and the second connection portion 42. A series relay 26 is provided in the third connection piece 23.

[0027] A positive-side charging relay 33 is provided on the positive-side second wiring 31. A negative-side charging relay 34 is provided on the negative-side second wiring 32. A positive-side parallel relay 54 is provided on the positive-side third wiring 51. One end of the positive-side third wiring 51 is connected to the first connection portion 41. The other end of the positive-side third wiring 51 is connected between the connection portion of the third connection piece 23 with the series relay 26 and the connection portion with the second battery 2B. The connection portion between the other end of the positive-side third wiring 51 and the third connection piece 23 may be referred to as the third connection portion 61. A closed loop is formed by the positive-side third wiring 51, the third connection piece 23, the series relay 26, the first battery 2A, and a portion of the first connection piece 21.

[0028] A negative-side parallel relay 53 is provided on the negative-side third wiring 52. One end of the negative-side third wiring 52 is connected to the second connection portion 42. The other end of the negative-side third wiring 52 is connected between the connection portion of the third connection piece 23 with the series relay 26 and the connection portion with the first battery 2A. The connection portion between the other end of the negative-side third wiring 52 and the third connection piece 23 may be referred to as a fourth connection portion 62. A closed loop is formed by the negative-side third wiring 52, the third connection piece 23, the series relay 26, the second battery 2B, and a portion of the second connection piece 22.

[0029] As will be explained in detail later, system main relays 24, 25 and series relay 26 are relays used when running at 800 V. Charging relays 33, 34 and series relay 26 are relays used when charging at 800 V. Parallel relays 53, 54 and charging relays 33, 34 are relays used when charging at 400 V.

[0030] The system main relays 24, 25, the switching relays 26, 53, 54, and the charging relays 33, 34 open and close in response to control signals from the ECU. The ECU includes a processing unit such as a CPU, memory devices including RAM and ROM, input / output devices, etc. The input / output devices are electrically connected to the seven relays 24, 25, 26, 33, 34, 53, 54, as well as to each switching element of the power conversion device 3 and the charging stand 6.

[0031] The arithmetic processing device executes a program stored in the memory device. The arithmetic processing device performs arithmetic processing in accordance with the program. The arithmetic processing device also performs arithmetic processing using data stored in the memory device. The arithmetic processing device controls each switching element and seven relays 24, 25, 26, 33, 34, 53, and 54 via the input / output device. In this embodiment, the processing operations performed by the arithmetic processing device are described as processing operations of the ECU. The ECU can also be called an electronic control device.

[0032] <800V Travel> The arithmetic processing device is configured to be electrically connectable to the charging stand 6 via the input / output device. When the battery 2 is not being charged from the charging stand 6, the arithmetic processing device outputs ON signals to the system main relays 24, 25 and the series relay 26. At the same time, the arithmetic processing device outputs OFF signals to the charging relays 33, 34 and the parallel relays 53, 54. As a result, a current path is formed through which a current flows, as shown by the dashed line in FIG. 2 . The current path includes the energized relays 24, 25, 26, the first battery 2A, the second battery 2B, and the first wiring 20.

[0033] Due to the above-described electrical connection configuration, when the battery device 2 is not being charged from the charging stand 6, the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B are electrically connected in series. The potential difference between the first connection piece 21 and the second connection piece 22 is approximately 800 V. The battery device 2 is connected to the power conversion device 3 via the first connection piece 21 and the second connection piece 22. A source of power of approximately 800 V is supplied to the power conversion device 3.

[0034] The power converter 3 converts the supplied power from DC to AC. The converted 800V power is supplied to the motor generator. The motor generator runs on the converted AC power, and the electric vehicle runs in this way.

[0035] <800V Charging> When charging the battery 2 from the charging stand 6, the arithmetic processing device outputs an OFF signal to the system main relays 24, 25. When connected to a high-voltage quick charger as the charging stand 6, the arithmetic processing device outputs an ON signal to the charging relays 33, 34 and the series relay 26. In addition, the arithmetic processing device outputs an OFF signal to the parallel relays 53, 54 and the system main relays 24, 25. This forms a current path through which a current flows, as shown by the dashed lines in FIG. 3 . The current path includes the energized relays 26, 33, 34, the first battery 2A, the second battery 2B, the positive-side second wiring 31, the negative-side second wiring 32, and a portion of the first wiring 20 that connects the first connection 41 and the second connection 42.

[0036] Due to the electrical connection configuration described above, when connected to a high-voltage quick charger, the first battery 2A and the second battery 2B are electrically connected in series. The potential difference between the positive electrode side second wiring 31 and the negative electrode side second wiring 32 is approximately 800 V. External power of approximately 800 V is supplied to the battery device 2 via a part of the first wiring 20 and the second wiring 30. The battery device 2 is charged with external power of approximately 800 V.

[0037] <400V Charging> When connected to a low-voltage quick charger as the charging stand 6, the arithmetic processing unit outputs ON signals to the charging relays 33, 34 and the parallel relays 53, 54. In addition, the arithmetic processing unit outputs OFF signals to the series relay 26 and the system main relays 24, 25. This forms two current paths through which current flows, as shown by the dashed lines in Figure 4.

[0038] One current path includes the energized relays 33, 34, 53, the battery 2A, the positive-side second wiring 31, the negative-side second wiring 32, the negative-side third wiring 52, and a portion of the first wiring 20 that connects the first connection portion 41 and the fourth connection portion 62. External power of approximately 400 V is supplied to the first battery 2A via this path. The first battery 2A is charged by the external power of approximately 400 V.

[0039] Another current path includes the energized relays 33, 34, 54, the second battery 2B, the positive-side second wiring 31, the negative-side second wiring 32, the positive-side third wiring 51, and a portion of the first wiring 20 that connects the second connection part 42 and the third connection part 61. External power of approximately 400 V is supplied to the second battery 2B via this path. The second battery 2B is charged by the external power of approximately 400 V.

[0040] Note that the same function may be provided by stopping the output of an OFF signal from each of the relays 24, 25, 26, 33, 34, 53, and 54. The same function may be provided by stopping the output of an ON signal from each of the relays 24, 25, 26, 33, 34, 53, and 54.

[0041] <Configuration of Equipment Module> Next, the configuration of the high-voltage J / B 10 will be described with reference to Figure 5. Note that each drawing shows the components of the high-voltage J / B 10 in a schematic manner. In the following, three mutually orthogonal directions are referred to as the X direction, Y direction, and Z direction. In the drawings, the "directions" are omitted and simply referred to as X, Y, and Z. The high-voltage J / B 10 is provided in the body of the vehicle. As an example, the high-voltage J / B 10 is disposed under the floor of the passenger compartment.

[0042] The high-voltage J / B 10 has a power control circuit 70 and a fixed base 80. The fixed base 80 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. The fixed base 80 has a mounting surface 81 on which the power control circuit 70 is mounted and a mounting surface on the reverse side thereof. Seven relays 24, 25, 26, 33, 34, 53, and 54 are mounted on the mounting surface 81. The direction in which the seven relays 24, 25, 26, 33, 34, 53, and 54 and the fixed base 80 are aligned corresponds to the Z direction. The seven relays 24, 25, 26, 33, 34, 53, and 54 are fixed to the fixed base 80 in the Z direction. The mounting surface 81 and the mounting surface are spaced apart in the Z direction. The mounting surface faces the floor of the vehicle compartment. The high-voltage J / B 10 is fixed to the vehicle by fixing the mounting surface to the floor of the vehicle compartment. The fixed base 80 is primarily made of insulating resin.

[0043] The mounting surface 81 extends in a plane along the X and Y directions. The mounting surface 81 has a first end 82 and a third end 84 that are spaced apart in the X direction. The mounting surface 81 has a second end 83 and a fourth end 85 that are spaced apart in the Y direction. The first end 82 to the fourth end 85 are integrally connected in this order clockwise.

[0044] The series relay 26 is mounted at the center in the X direction on the mounting surface 81. The parallel relays 53, 54 are mounted so as to sandwich the series relay 26 from both sides in the X direction. The system main relays 24, 25 are mounted so as to sandwich the parallel relays 53, 54 from both sides in the X direction. The charging relays 33, 34 are mounted so as to sandwich the parallel relays 53, 54 from both sides in the X direction. Note that the series relay 26 does not have to be mounted at the center in the X direction on the mounting surface 81. As long as the series relay 26 is arranged in the above-described order, the position where it is arranged on the mounting surface 81 is not limited to the center.

[0045] The arrangement of the seven relays 24, 25, 26, 33, 34, 53, and 54 will be described in more detail below. The series relay 26 is used as a reference. The positive parallel relay 54, the positive system main relay 24, and the positive charging relay 33 are arranged closer to the third end 84 than the series relay 26. The negative parallel relay 53, the negative system main relay 25, and the negative charging relay 34 are arranged closer to the first end 82 than the series relay 26.

[0046] The battery device 2 is disposed adjacent to the fourth end 85 of the fixed base 80 in the Y direction. The power conversion device 3 and the charging inlet 4 are disposed adjacent to the second end 83 of the fixed base 80 in the Y direction. As described above, the battery device 2 and the seven relays 24, 25, 26, 33, 34, 53, and 54 are electrically connected by the respective wiring. The connection of each wiring has been described above, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0047] <Relay Configuration> Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of relays 24, 25, 26, 33, 34, 53, and 54. Relays 24, 25, 26, 33, 34, 53, and 54 are composed of an electromagnetic actuator 120, a relay main body 140, and a relay housing 190. The reciprocating direction of the electromagnetic actuator 120 in relays 24, 25, 26, 33, 34, 53, and 54 corresponds to the axial direction of a rod 129, which will be described later. A direction perpendicular to the axial direction may be referred to as the "orthogonal direction." The axial direction of rod 129 can be rephrased as the extension direction of rod 129. The extension direction of rod 129 may also be referred to as the longitudinal direction of the rod.

[0048] The electromagnetic actuator 120 is aligned with the relay main body 140 in the axial direction. For convenience, the side of the relay main body 140 relative to the electromagnetic actuator 120 is referred to as the upper direction, and the side of the electromagnetic actuator 120 relative to the relay main body 140 is referred to as the lower direction. The electromagnetic actuator 120 is mechanically connected to the relay main body 140. The electromagnetic actuator 120 supplies a driving force to the relay main body 140 for switching operation.

[0049] The electromagnetic actuator 120 is composed of a fixed core 121, a movable core 126, a rod 129, an exciting coil 130, a coil housing 132, a return spring 133, a damper sheet 135, and a housing cylinder 136, etc.

[0050] The fixed core 121 is made of a magnetic material such as iron. It has a base portion 122 and a cylinder portion 123. The base portion 122 is formed in the shape of a thin plate in the axial direction. The fixed core 121 is disposed in a position facing the relay main body 140, with the main surface of the base portion 122 aligned along a plane extending in the orthogonal direction. A through hole is formed in the base portion 122, which communicates with a spring accommodating hole 123A (described later).

[0051] The cylinder portion 123 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The cylinder portion 123 is integrally connected to the main surface of the base portion 122 on the electromagnetic actuator 120 side. The cylinder portion 123 is provided with a spring accommodating hole 123A and a first opposing surface 124. The spring accommodating hole 123A is a hole in which the return spring 133 is accommodated. The spring accommodating hole 123A is formed by the inner circumferential wall surface of the cylinder portion 123. The spring accommodating hole 123A communicates with a through hole formed in the base portion 122. The diameter of the through hole is smaller than the diameter of the spring accommodating hole 123A. The first opposing surface 124 is formed by the lower end surface of the cylinder portion 123 facing downward.

[0052] The movable core 126 is cylindrical and made of a magnetic material such as iron. The outer diameter of the movable core 126 is substantially the same as or slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the cylinder portion 123. The movable core 126 is disposed below the cylinder portion 123 so as to be coaxial with the cylinder portion 123. The movable core 126 is provided with a rod retaining hole 127 and a second opposing surface 128. The rod retaining hole 127 is a hole for retaining a rod 129. The rod retaining hole 127 is formed by the inner circumferential wall surface of the movable core 126. The second opposing surface 128 is formed by the upper end surface of the movable core 126 facing upward. A gap is interposed between the second opposing surface 122 and the first opposing surface 124. The fixed core 121 and the movable core 126 face each other across the gap.

[0053] The rod 129 is formed into a long, thin columnar shape from a non-magnetic metal material or the like. The rod 129 is inserted into a through-hole in the fixed core 121, including the spring accommodating hole 123A. The lower portion of the rod 129 is fitted into the rod holding hole 127. The rod 129 moves back and forth along the axial direction together with the movable core 126. The upper portion of the rod 129 passes through the spring accommodating hole 123A and protrudes upward from the base portion 122. The upper portion of the rod 129 is housed in the relay body 140.

[0054] The excitation coil 130 is formed by winding a thin wire material such as copper around a coil bobbin 131. The coil bobbin 131 is formed of a resin material in a cylindrical or rectangular tube shape. The excitation coil 130 is disposed so as to surround the outer periphery of the cylinder portion 123 and the movable core 126. Electricity is applied to the excitation coil 130 in accordance with a control signal output from a control device. When energized, the excitation coil 130 is placed in an excited state, generating a magnetic flux along the axial direction on the inner periphery.

[0055] The coil housing 132 is formed in the shape of a bottomed container from a magnetic material such as ferromagnetic stainless steel. The coil housing 132 is disposed below the base portion 122. The upper edge of the coil housing 132 is in contact with the outer edge of the base portion 122. The excitation coil 130 is accommodated inside the coil housing 132.

[0056] The return spring 133 is made of a metal wire wound in a spiral shape. The return spring 133 is disposed on the outer periphery of the rod 129. The return spring 133 is accommodated in the spring accommodating hole 123A in a state in which it is compressed in the axial direction between the cylinder portion 123 and the movable core 126. The return spring 133 biases the movable core 126 in the axial direction away from the cylinder portion 123 by its restoring force.

[0057] The damper sheet 135 is formed into a thin disk shape from a rubber material, a resin material, or the like. The damper sheet 135 is disposed below the movable core 126. The damper sheet 135 comes into contact with the lower end surface of the movable core 126 facing downward, and restricts movement of the movable core 126 in a direction away from the cylinder portion 123.

[0058] The housing cylinder 136 is made of metal and has a cylindrical shape with a bottom. The housing cylinder 136 houses the movable core 126 and the damper sheet 135. The upper edge of the peripheral wall of the housing cylinder 136 is fitted onto the outer peripheral wall surface of the cylinder portion 123. The inner peripheral wall surface of the housing cylinder 136 slidably supports the outer peripheral wall surface of the movable core 126. The movable core 126 can reciprocate within the housing cylinder 136 along the axial direction.

[0059] A magnetic circuit is formed in the electromagnetic actuator 120 described above. The magnetic circuit is formed by the fixed core 121, the movable core 126, the coil housing 132, and the containing cylinder 136, and circulates around the exciting coil 130. When the exciting coil 130 is energized and magnetic flux is generated in the magnetic circuit, the movable core 126 is attracted to the fixed core 121 by magnetic force. The movable core 126 moves upward so as to reduce the gap between the fixed core 121 and the movable core 126. When the energization of the exciting coil 130 is stopped and the magnetic flux generated in the magnetic circuit disappears, the movable core 126 moves downward due to the biasing force of the return spring 133.

[0060] The relay body 140 is composed of a pressure spring 145, a pressure plate 146, a spring holder 147, a movable terminal stopper 148, a sealed case 150, a fixed terminal 160, and a movable terminal 170. The pressure spring 145, the pressure plate 146, the spring holder 147, the movable terminal 170, and the movable terminal 148 are attached to the upper portion of a rod 129 protruding from the electromagnetic actuator 120.

[0061] The pressure spring 145 is made of a metal wire wound in a spiral shape. The pressure spring 145 is disposed on the outer periphery of the rod 129. The pressure spring 145 is disposed between a pressure plate 146 and a spring holder 147. When the rod 129 is displaced upward, the pressure spring 145 is compressed between the pressure plate 146 and the spring holder 147. The restoring force of the pressure spring 145 serves as a biasing force that presses the movable terminal 170 against the fixed terminal 160.

[0062] The pressure plate 146 is formed into a plate shape from a metal material or the like. The pressure plate 146 is disposed between the pressure spring 145 and the movable terminal 170. The pressure plate 146 is displaceable in the up and down direction relative to the rod 129. The pressure plate 146 transmits the upward driving force of the electromagnetic actuator 120 and the upward biasing force of the pressure spring 145 to the movable terminal 170.

[0063] The spring holder 147 is made of a metal material or the like and is formed into a flat, cylindrical shape with a bottom. The spring holder 147 is fitted onto the rod 129 and is held by the rod 129. The spring holder 147 moves back and forth in the axial direction together with the rod 129. The spring holder 147 houses the lower end of the pressure spring 145. When the rod 129 moves upward, the spring holder 147 compresses the pressure spring 145 in the axial direction.

[0064] The mover stopper 148 is formed into a cylindrical shape with a flange from a metal material or a hard resin material. The flange portion of the mover stopper 148 is located above the movable terminal 170. The mover stopper 148 moves back and forth along the axial direction together with the rod 129. When the rod 129 moves downward (in the return direction), the mover stopper 148 comes into contact with the movable terminal 170 and pushes the movable terminal 170 downward.

[0065] The sealed case 150 is made of a ceramic material. The sealed case 150 has a container shape with a bottom. The sealed case 150 is disposed above the electromagnetic actuator 120 with its opening facing downward. The sealed case 150 has a top wall 151, four side walls 152, and a rod stopper 157.

[0066] The upper wall 151 is formed in a plate shape having a thickness in the axial direction. Two terminal accommodating holes 154, 155 are formed in the upper wall 151. The terminal accommodating holes 154, 155 are through holes that penetrate the upper wall 151 in the plate thickness direction. The terminal accommodating holes 154, 155 are formed with a gap between them in the orthogonal direction. The terminal accommodating holes 154, 155 are circular openings.

[0067] The rod stopper 157 is formed in a plate shape from a metal material or a hard resin material. The rod stopper 157 is held by a relay housing 190 or the like. The rod stopper 157 is located above the upper end 129A of the rod 129 and faces the upper end 129A in the axial direction. The rod stopper 157 restricts the upward movement of the rod 129 by contacting the upper end 129A. The relay housing 190 is a case body that houses the electromagnetic actuator 120 and the relay main body 140. The relay housing 190 is formed in a box shape overall from a resin material or the like.

[0068] The fixed terminal 160 is made of a metal material with excellent conductivity, such as copper. The fixed terminal 160 is electrically connected to a current path formed in the power control circuit 70. The fixed terminal 160 is provided with a connection hole 165 and a fixed contact 167. The connection hole 165 is formed in a cylindrical hole shape. The connection hole 165 is used to fix a conductive member, such as a bus bar, that forms the current path to the fixed terminal 160. The fixed contact 167 is formed on the bottom wall surface of the fixed terminal 160 facing downward. The fixed contact 167 faces the movable terminal 170 in the axial direction. The fixed contact 167 comes into contact with the movable terminal 170 when displaced upward.

[0069] The fixed terminal 160 includes a first fixed terminal 161 and a second fixed terminal 162. The two fixed terminals 161, 162 are accommodated in the terminal accommodating holes 154, 155, respectively, and are arranged at an interval from each other in the perpendicular direction. As described above, a bus bar or the like that forms a current path is fixed to the fixed terminal 160. The bus bar or the like is held to each fixed terminal 161, 162 by a fastening member such as a screw that threads into the connection hole 165.

[0070] The movable terminal 170 is formed in a plate shape having a thickness in the axial direction and is made of a metal material with excellent conductivity, such as copper. The movable terminal 170 has a rod insertion hole 174. The rod insertion hole 174 is a through-hole that passes through the movable terminal 170 in the plate thickness direction. The rod 129 is inserted into the rod insertion hole 174. The movable terminal 170 is attached to the rod 129 with its main surface aligned with a plane along the orthogonal direction. The movable terminal 170 is allowed to move up and down between the pressure plate 146 and the movable terminal stopper 148.

[0071] The movable terminal 170 is pressed almost evenly against both the first fixed terminal 161 and the second fixed terminal 162 by the biasing force of the pressure spring 145. The movable terminal 170 has a first movable contact 171 and a second movable contact 172.

[0072] The first movable contact 171 is formed on the upper surface of the upward-facing movable terminal 170 in a region facing the bottom wall surface of the first fixed terminal 161. When the first movable contact 171 is displaced upward, the first movable contact 171 comes into contact with the fixed contact 167 of the first fixed terminal 161. The first movable contact 171 is in a closed state with respect to the first fixed terminal 161, i.e., in an ON state. When the movable terminal 170 is displaced downward, the first movable contact 171 is separated from the fixed contact 167 of the first fixed terminal 161. The first movable contact 171 is in an open state with respect to the first fixed terminal 161, i.e., in an OFF state.

[0073] Similarly, the second movable contact 172 is formed on the upper surface of the upward-facing movable terminal 170 in a region facing the bottom wall surface of the second fixed terminal 162. When the movable terminal 170 is displaced upward, the second movable contact 172 comes into contact with the fixed contact 167 of the second fixed terminal 162. The second movable contact 172 is in a closed state with respect to the second fixed terminal 162, i.e., in an ON state. When the second movable contact 172 is displaced downward, the second movable contact 172 is separated from the fixed contact 167 of the second fixed terminal 162. The second movable contact 172 is in an open state with respect to the second fixed terminal 162, i.e., in an OFF state.

[0074] <DC Relay and Parallel Relay> Fig. 7 is a schematic diagram showing the series relay 26, the parallel relays 53 and 54, and a portion of the fixed base 80 extracted from the high-voltage J / B 10. Fig. 7 also shows the rod 129, the pressure spring 145, the fixed terminal 160, and the movable terminal 170 extracted from the series relay 26 and the parallel relays 53 and 54. Note that Fig. 7 only shows these components. Other components of the series relay 26 and the parallel relays 53 and 54 are not shown. The outlines of the series relay 26 and the parallel relays 53 and 54 are shown by two-dot chain lines.

[0075] The series relay 26 has a rod 129S, a pressure spring 145S, a fixed terminal 160S, and a movable terminal 170S. The negative side parallel relay 53 has a rod 129N, a pressure spring 145N, a fixed terminal 160N, and a movable terminal 170N. The positive side parallel relay 54 has a rod 129P, a pressure spring 145P, a fixed terminal 160P, and a movable terminal 170P. Components marked with "S" are components of the series relay 26. Components marked with "N" are components of the negative side parallel relay 53. Components marked with "P" are components of the positive side parallel relay 54.

[0076] The fixed terminals 160S, 160N, and 160P may be referred to as connecting fixed terminals. The rod 129P may be referred to as a first parallel rod. The rod 129N may be referred to as a second parallel rod. The rod 129S may be referred to as a serial rod. The movable terminal 170S may be referred to as a serial movable terminal. The fixed terminal 160S may be referred to as a serial fixed terminal. The rods 129N and 129P may be referred to as parallel rods. The movable terminals 170N and 170P may be referred to as parallel movable terminals. The fixed terminals 160N and 160P may be referred to as parallel fixed terminals.

[0077] The fixed terminal 160S is electrically and mechanically connected to a bus bar or the like that forms the third connection piece 23. The third connection piece 23 has a connection piece 23A that is connected to the first battery 2A and a connection piece 23B that is connected to the second battery 2B. A first fixed terminal 161S of the fixed terminal 160S is connected to the first battery 2A via the connection piece 23A. A second fixed terminal 162S of the fixed terminal 160S is connected to the second battery 2B via the connection piece 23B.

[0078] The fixed terminal 160N is electrically and mechanically connected to a bus bar or the like that forms the negative-side third wiring 52. The negative-side third wiring 52 has a connection piece 52A that is connected to the first battery 2A and a connection piece 52B that is connected to the second battery 2B. A first fixed terminal 161N of the fixed terminal 160N is connected to the first battery 2A via the connection piece 52A. A second fixed terminal 162N of the fixed terminal 160N is connected to the second battery 2B via the connection piece 52B.

[0079] The fixed terminal 160P is electrically and mechanically connected to a bus bar or the like that forms the third positive wiring 51. The third positive wiring 51 has a connection piece 51A that is connected to the first battery 2A and a connection piece 51B that is connected to the second battery 2B. The first fixed terminal 161P of the fixed terminal 160P is connected to the first battery 2A via the connection piece 51A. The second fixed terminal 162P of the fixed terminal 160P is connected to the second battery 2B via the connection piece 51B.

[0080] In the first embodiment, the axial direction of the rod 129S of the series relay 26 is different from the axial direction of the parallel relays 53 and 54. As an example, the axial directions of the rods 129N and 129P are the same. As an example, the axial directions of the rods 129N and 129P coincide with the Y direction. The axial direction of the rod 129S does not coincide with the Y direction. Figure 7 shows, as an example, a configuration in which the axial direction of the rod 129S is an oblique direction having an X-direction component and a Y-direction component.

[0081] <Operation and Effect> The movable terminal 170 moves along the axial direction of the rod 129. When the movable terminal 170 moves upward, it comes into contact with the fixed terminal 160. When the movable terminal 170 comes into contact with the fixed terminal 160, the movable contacts 171, 172 and the fixed contact 167 are in a closed state, i.e., an ON state. When the movable terminal 170 moves downward, it separates from the fixed terminal 160. When the movable terminal 170 separates from the fixed terminal 160, the movable contacts 171, 172 and the fixed contact 167 are in an open state, i.e., an OFF state. In the first embodiment, as described above, the axial direction of the rod 129S of the series relay 26 is different from the axial direction of the rods 129N, 129P of the parallel relays 53, 54.

[0082] For example, when vibration occurs along the axial direction of rod 129S, movable terminal 170S may be displaced up and down. The vibration may cause movable terminal 170S to unintentionally come into contact with fixed terminal 160N. To cope with this, movable terminals 170N and 170P are passed through rods 129N and 129P, which have an axial direction different from that of rod 129S. Even if movable terminals 170N and 170P attempt to displace up and down along the axial direction of rod 129S, the displacement is suppressed by rods 129N and 129P. This prevents movable terminals 170N and 170P from coming into contact with fixed terminals 160N and 160P.

[0083] Similarly, when vibration occurs along the axial direction of rods 129N, 129P, movable terminals 170N, 170P may unintentionally come into contact with fixed terminals 160N, 160P due to the vibration. In response to this, movable terminal 170S is passed through rod 129S, which has an axial direction different from that of rods 129N, 129P. Even if movable terminal 170S attempts to displace up and down along the axial direction of rods 129N, 129P, the displacement is suppressed by rod 129S. This prevents movable terminal 170S from coming into contact with fixed terminal 160S.

[0084] That is, the series relay 26 and the parallel relays 53, 54 are prevented from being turned on simultaneously. In any of the states of 800V running, 800V charging, and 400V charging, the series relay 26 and the parallel relays 53, 54 are prevented from being turned on simultaneously. Unintentional changes in the current path of each mode due to large vibrations can be prevented. Unintentional short-circuiting of the current path including the series relay 26 and the negative side parallel relay 53 is prevented. Unintentional short-circuiting of the current path including the series relay 26 and the positive side parallel relay 54 is prevented.

[0085] Second Embodiment FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating a portion of the series relay 26, the parallel relays 53 and 54, and the fixed base 80 extracted from the high-voltage J / B 10 in the second embodiment. In the second embodiment, the axial direction of the rod 129S, the axial direction of the rod 129N, and the axial direction of the rod 129P are different. As an example, the axial direction of the rod 129N coincides with the Y direction. The axial direction of the rod 129S and the axial direction of the rod 129P do not coincide with the Y direction. Furthermore, the axial direction of the rod 129S and the axial direction of the rod 129P are different from each other. As long as they do not coincide with the Y direction, the axial direction of the rod 129S and the axial direction of the rod 129S may be along any direction. As an example, the axial direction of the rod 129S and the axial direction of the rod 129P are oblique directions having X-direction and Y-direction components. For example, the oblique directions may be individually defined so that the axial direction of the rod 129S and the axial direction of the rod 129P are symmetrical.

[0086] According to this embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment, the negative side parallel relay 53 and the positive side parallel relay 54 are prevented from being turned on simultaneously. When the negative side parallel relay 53 and the positive side parallel relay 54 are turned on simultaneously, a closed loop is formed in the current path including the negative side parallel relay 53 and the positive side parallel relay 54. When the voltage of the negative side parallel relay 53 and the voltage of the positive side parallel relay 54 differ, a weak current may flow in the current path including the negative side parallel relay 53 and the positive side parallel relay 54. In the second embodiment, the negative side parallel relay 53 and the positive side parallel relay 54 are prevented from being turned on simultaneously. Therefore, when the voltage of the negative side parallel relay 53 and the voltage of the positive side parallel relay 54 differ, a weak current is prevented from flowing in the electrical wiring including the negative side parallel relay 53 and the positive side parallel relay 54.

[0087] 9 is a schematic diagram showing a part of the series relay 26, the parallel relays 53 and 54, and the fixed base 80 extracted from the high-voltage J / B 10 in the third embodiment. In the third embodiment, two of the three rods 129S, 129N, and 129P have the same axial direction. The direction in which one movable terminal 170 of the rods 129 having the same axial direction approaches the fixed terminal 160 is different from the direction in which the other movable terminal 170 of the rods 129 having the same axial direction approaches the fixed terminal 160. The direction in which one movable terminal 170 approaches the fixed terminal 160 is opposite to the direction in which the other movable terminal 170 approaches the fixed terminal 160.

[0088] As an example of the third embodiment, the axial direction of rod 129S is the same as the axial direction of rod 129P. In the same axial direction, the direction in which movable terminal 170S approaches fixed terminal 160S is different from the direction in which movable terminal 170P approaches fixed terminal 160P. The direction in which movable terminal 170S approaches fixed terminal 160S is opposite to the direction in which movable terminal 170P approaches fixed terminal 160P. Furthermore, the axial direction of rods 129S and 129P is different from the axial direction of rod 129N.

[0089] Specifically, with respect to the example of the third embodiment shown in FIG. 9 , the axial direction of rod 129S and the axial direction of rod 129P are aligned with the X direction. The axial direction of rod 129N is different from the axial direction of rod 129S and the axial direction of rod 129P. The axial direction of rod 129N is aligned with the Y direction. This makes it easier for the following to occur when vibration occurs in the X direction such that the movable terminal 170S approaches the fixed terminal 160S. The movable terminal 170S is more likely to come into contact with the fixed terminal 160S, and the movable terminal 170P is more likely to move away from the fixed terminal 160S. Even if vibration is applied to the high-voltage J / B 10 in a specific direction in the X direction, the relays 26 and 54, which are coaxial but oriented in different directions, are prevented from being turned on simultaneously.

[0090] Generally, a vehicle may be subjected to a large impact from either the front or rear direction, such as a rear or front collision, from either the left or right direction, such as a side collision, or from either the up or down direction, such as when the vehicle is run over. By applying the high-voltage J / B 10 of the third embodiment to a vehicle, it is possible to effectively prevent the two relays 26, 54, 55, which are arranged coaxially but facing different directions, from being turned on simultaneously in response to an impact from one direction.

[0091] As a preferred example, in the third embodiment, the axial direction of rod 129S coincides with any one of the front-rear, left-right, and up-down directions of the vehicle. In this case, movable terminal 170S can only be displaced in response to an impact along this direction. The axial directions of rods 129N and 129P coincide with one of the front-rear, left-right, and up-down directions of the vehicle that is different from the axial direction of rod 129S. Each movable terminal 170N and 170P can only be displaced in response to an impact along this direction. This effectively suppresses displacement of movable terminals 170S, 170N, and 170P.

[0092] As described above, in the third embodiment, when an impact is applied from one side in the axial direction, it is expected that the two coaxial relays will not be simultaneously turned on. However, the pressure spring 145 has spring properties. Therefore, the movable terminal 170 of one of the two relays that is expected to be in the off state may be unintentionally turned on by the biasing force of the pressure spring 145. In this case, there is a risk that the two relays may be unintentionally turned on simultaneously.

[0093] As another example, the axial direction of rod 129S and the axial direction of rod 129N may be the same. In this case, in the same axial direction, the direction in which movable terminal 170S approaches fixed terminal 160S is different from the direction in which movable terminal 170N approaches fixed terminal 160N. The direction in which movable terminal 170S approaches fixed terminal 160S is opposite to the direction in which movable terminal 170N approaches fixed terminal 160N.

[0094] As yet another example, the axial direction of rod 129N and the axial direction of rod 129P may be the same. In this case, in the same axial direction, the direction in which movable terminal 170N approaches fixed terminal 160N is different from the direction in which movable terminal 170P approaches fixed terminal 160P. The direction in which movable terminal 170N approaches fixed terminal 160N is opposite to the direction in which movable terminal 170P approaches fixed terminal 160P. In these cases, the same effect as described above is achieved.

[0095] 10 is a schematic diagram showing a part of the series relay 26, the parallel relays 53 and 54, and the fixed base 80 extracted from the high-voltage J / B 10 in the fourth embodiment. In the fourth embodiment, the axial direction of the rod 129S, the axial direction of the rod 129N, and the axial direction of the rod 129P are mutually orthogonal. As an example of the fourth embodiment, the axial direction of the rod 129S coincides with the Y direction. The axial direction of the rod 129S coincides with the X direction. The axial direction of the rod 129P coincides with the Z direction.

[0096] When the high-voltage J / B 10 of the fourth embodiment is applied to a vehicle, the axial directions of the rods 129S, 129N, and 129P correspond to the front-rear direction, the left-right direction, and the up-down direction, respectively. This prevents the series relay 26, the negative-side parallel relay 53, and the positive-side parallel relay 54 from being simultaneously turned on, regardless of the direction of vibration. Furthermore, regardless of the axial direction of impact, the two relays are prevented from being simultaneously turned on.

[0097] Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to the embodiments, it is understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments or structures. The present disclosure also encompasses various modifications and modifications within the scope of equivalents. In addition, although various combinations and forms are shown in the present disclosure, other combinations and forms including only one element, more, or less than one element are also within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure.

[0098] (Disclosure of Technical Ideas) This specification discloses multiple technical ideas described in the following multiple clauses. Some clauses may be described in a multiple dependent form, where the subsequent clause alternatively refers to the preceding clause. Some clauses may be described in a multiple dependent form, where the subsequent clause refers to another multiple dependent clause. These multiple dependent clauses define multiple technical ideas.

[0099] (Technical Idea 1) An equipment module (10) that switches between a series connection and a parallel connection of a first battery (2A) and a second battery (2B), comprising: a series relay (26) that connects the first battery and the second battery in series; and a parallel relay (53, 54) that connects the first battery and the second battery in parallel, wherein the series relay and the parallel relay have fixed connection terminals (160S, 160N, 160P) that are electrically connected to different current paths, and the series relay has a series fixed terminal (160S) that is the fixed connection terminal of the series relay, a series movable terminal (170S) that makes contact with and separates from the series fixed terminal, and a series rod (129S) that passes through the series movable terminal to guide movement of the series movable terminal, the parallel relay includes parallel fixed terminals (160N, 160P) that are the connection fixed terminals of the parallel relay, parallel movable terminals (170N, 170P) that come into contact with and separate from the parallel fixed terminals, and parallel rods (129N, 129P) that are passed through the parallel movable terminals so as to guide the movement of the parallel movable terminals, and the extension direction of the series rods and the extension direction of the parallel rods are different.

[0100] (Technical Idea 2) The equipment module according to Technical Idea 1, wherein the parallel relay includes a first parallel relay (54) provided in a wiring connecting the positive electrodes of the first battery and the second battery, and a second parallel relay (53) provided in a wiring connecting the negative electrodes of the first battery and the second battery, the first parallel relay includes a first parallel rod (129P) that is the parallel rod, and the second parallel relay includes a second parallel rod (129N) that is the parallel rod.

[0101] (Technical Concept 3) The equipment module according to Technical Concept 2, wherein the extending direction of the series rods, the extending direction of the first parallel rods, and the extending direction of the second parallel rods are different.

[0102] (Technical Idea 4) The equipment module according to Technical Idea 2 or 3, wherein a direction in which the series movable terminal approaches the series fixed terminal, a direction in which the parallel movable terminal of the first parallel relay approaches the parallel fixed terminal of the first parallel relay, and a direction in which the parallel movable terminal of the second parallel relay approaches the parallel fixed terminal of the second parallel relay are different.

[0103] (Technical Concept 5) The equipment module according to Technical Concept 2 or 3, wherein the extending direction of the series rods, the extending direction of the first parallel rods, and the extending direction of the second parallel rods are orthogonal to each other in three different directions.

[0104] (Technical Concept 6) The equipment module according to Technical Concept 5, which is mounted on a vehicle, wherein the three directions correspond to the front-rear direction of the vehicle, the left-right direction of the vehicle, and the up-down direction of the vehicle.

[0105] (Technical Idea 7) The device module according to any one of Technical Ideas 1 to 6, wherein the parallel fixed terminal is electrically connected to wiring (51, 52) through which power for charging the first battery or the second battery is supplied.

Claims

1. An equipment module (10) that switches between a series connection and a parallel connection of a first battery (2A) and a second battery (2B), comprising: a series relay (26) that connects the first battery and the second battery in series; and a parallel relay (53, 54) that connects the first battery and the second battery in parallel, wherein the series relay and the parallel relay have fixed connection terminals (160S, 160N, 160P) that are electrically connected to different current paths, and the series relay has a series fixed terminal (160S) that is the fixed connection terminal of the series relay, a series movable terminal (170S) that makes contact with and separates from the series fixed terminal, and a series rod (129S) that is passed through the series movable terminal to guide the movement of the series movable terminal, the parallel relay includes parallel fixed terminals (160N, 160P) which are the connection fixed terminals of the parallel relay, parallel movable terminals (170N, 170P) which come into contact with and separate from the parallel fixed terminals, and parallel rods (129N, 129P) which are passed through the parallel movable terminals so as to guide the movement of the parallel movable terminals, and an equipment module in which an extension direction of the series rod and an extension direction of the parallel rod are different.

2. The equipment module described in claim 1, wherein the parallel relay includes a first parallel relay (54) provided in the wiring connecting the positive electrodes of the first battery and the second battery, and a second parallel relay (53) provided in the wiring connecting the negative electrodes of the first battery and the second battery, the first parallel relay includes a first parallel rod (129P) that is the parallel rod, and the second parallel relay includes a second parallel rod (129N) that is the parallel rod.

3. The equipment module according to claim 2, wherein the extending direction of the series rods is different from the extending direction of the first parallel rods and the extending direction of the second parallel rods.

4. The equipment module according to claim 2 or 3, wherein a direction in which the series movable terminal approaches the series fixed terminal, a direction in which the parallel movable terminal of the first parallel relay approaches the parallel fixed terminal of the first parallel relay, and a direction in which the parallel movable terminal of the second parallel relay approaches the parallel fixed terminal of the second parallel relay are different.

5. The equipment module according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the extending direction of the series rods, the extending direction of the first parallel rods, and the extending direction of the second parallel rods are orthogonal to each other in three different directions.

6. The equipment module according to claim 5, which is mounted on a vehicle, and the three directions correspond to the front-rear direction of the vehicle, the left-right direction of the vehicle, and the up-down direction of the vehicle.

7. An equipment module as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the parallel fixed terminal is electrically connected to wiring (51, 52) through which power is supplied for charging the first battery or the second battery.

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