Temperature sensor device and battery module

Abstract

A temperature sensor device (30A) comprises a support body (310A), a temperature sensor element (320) for detecting the temperature of a battery cell (100), and a mechanism for rotatably supporting the temperature sensor element (320) using the support body (310A).

Description

Temperature sensor device and battery module

[0001] The present invention relates to a temperature sensor device and a battery module.

[0002] In recent years, various battery modules have been developed, each of which includes at least one battery cell.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes a battery module that includes a plurality of battery cells, a voltage detection device that detects the voltage of the plurality of battery cells, a support plate attached to the voltage detection device, and a temperature sensor attached to the support plate.

[0004] Patent Document 2 describes a battery module, which includes battery cells, thermistors that detect the temperatures of the battery cells, and coil springs that press the thermistors against the battery cells.

[0005] Patent Document 3 describes a battery wiring module. The battery wiring module includes a voltage detection wire, a wire cover that covers the voltage detection wire, and a hinge connected to the wire cover.

[0006] Patent Document 4 describes a terminal block. The terminal block includes an electrical connection portion, an opening / closing portion that can rotate together with the electrical connection portion, and a hinge portion that rotates the opening / closing portion.

[0007] JP 2023-180757 A JP 2018-045858 A JP 2012-256538 A JP 2023-083711 A

[0008] For example, as described in Patent Document 1, a temperature sensor may be pressed against a battery cell by a support. When the temperature sensor is pressed against the battery cell by a support, it is required that the temperature sensor be brought into accurate contact with a desired position on the battery cell.

[0009] One example of an object of the present invention is to bring a temperature sensor into accurate contact with a desired position of a battery cell. Other objects of the present invention will become apparent from the description of this specification.

[0010] One aspect of the present invention is as follows: 1. A temperature sensor device comprising: a support; a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of a battery cell; and a mechanism by which the support rotatably supports the temperature sensor. 2. The temperature sensor device described in 1., wherein the mechanism has an axis of rotation defined by a locally weak portion of the support. 3. The temperature sensor device described in 1., wherein the mechanism has a hinge for rotating the support. 4. A battery module comprising the battery cell and the temperature sensor device described in any one of 1. to 3.

[0011] According to the above aspect of the present invention, the temperature sensor can be brought into accurate contact with the desired position of the battery cell.

[0012] 1 is an exploded perspective view of a battery module according to embodiment 1. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a temperature sensor device according to embodiment 1 in a state where the temperature sensor element is supported substantially perpendicular to the battery cell. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a temperature sensor device according to embodiment 1 in a state where the temperature sensor element is supported obliquely to the battery cell. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a temperature sensor device according to embodiment 1 in a state where the temperature sensor element is supported substantially parallel to the battery cell. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a support body according to a first modified example. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a support body according to a second modified example. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a temperature sensor device according to embodiment 2 in a state where the temperature sensor element is supported obliquely to the battery cell. FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of a portion of the temperature sensor device according to embodiment 2 in a state where the temperature sensor element is supported obliquely to the battery cell. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a temperature sensor device according to embodiment 2 in a state where the temperature sensor element is supported substantially parallel to the battery cell.

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments and modifications of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In all the drawings, like components are designated by like reference numerals, and descriptions thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0014] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a battery module 1 according to a first embodiment.

[0015] For the purpose of explanation, arrows indicating the X, Y, and Z directions are shown in each figure. Hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, the tip of an arrow indicating the X direction will be referred to as the rear side of the battery module 1, and the base end of an arrow indicating the X direction will be referred to as the front side of the battery module 1. The Y direction is perpendicular to the X direction. The Y direction is the left-to-right direction of the battery module 1. Hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, the tip of an arrow indicating the Y direction will be referred to as the left side of the battery module 1, and the base end of an arrow indicating the Y direction will be referred to as the right side of the battery module 1. The Z direction is perpendicular to both the X and Y directions. The Z direction is the up-down direction of the battery module 1. Hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, the tip of an arrow indicating the Z direction will be referred to as the upper side of the battery module 1, and the base end of an arrow indicating the Z direction will be referred to as the lower side of the battery module 1. Hereinafter, as necessary, the tip and base ends of an arrow indicating the X direction will be referred to as the +X side and the -X side, respectively, the tip and base ends of an arrow indicating the Y direction will be referred to as the +Y side and the -Y side, respectively, and the tip and base ends of an arrow indicating the Z direction will be referred to as the +Z side and the -Z side, respectively. Note that the relationship between each of the X direction, Y direction, and Z direction and each of the front-rear direction, left-right direction, and up-down direction of the battery module 1 is not limited to the above-mentioned example.

[0016] The battery module 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0017] The battery module 1 includes a cell stack 10, a voltage detection device 20, a plurality of temperature sensor devices 30A, and a housing 40.

[0018] The cell stack 10 has a plurality of battery cells 100. The plurality of battery cells 100 are stacked in the Y direction. The longitudinal direction of each battery cell 100 is approximately parallel to the X direction. The lateral direction of each battery cell 100 is approximately parallel to the Z direction. The thickness direction of each battery cell 100 is approximately parallel to the Y direction. The shape of each battery cell 100 is not limited to this example.

[0019] Each battery cell 100 includes a battery element (not shown), an exterior material 102, a positive electrode terminal 104, and a negative electrode terminal 106. In one example, the battery element includes a plurality of positive electrodes and a plurality of negative electrodes (not shown) stacked alternately in the Y direction, and a separator (not shown) positioned between adjacent positive electrodes and negative electrodes in the Y direction. The exterior material 102 seals the battery element and an electrolyte (not shown). The positive electrode terminal 104 is electrically connected to the positive electrode of the battery element. The positive electrode terminal 104 is drawn out from one of both sides of the exterior material 102 in the X direction. The negative electrode terminal 106 is electrically connected to the negative electrode of the battery element. The negative electrode terminal 106 is drawn out from the other side of the exterior material 102 in the X direction. However, the structure of each battery cell 100 is not limited to this example.

[0020] Each battery cell 100 may be an all-solid-state battery. In an all-solid-state battery, a solid electrolyte layer is provided in a portion corresponding to a separator. An all-solid-state battery does not contain an electrolytic solution. Unless otherwise specified, the following description will be given assuming that each battery cell 100 is a battery cell containing an electrolytic solution.

[0021] In the first embodiment, the plurality of battery cells 100 are electrically connected in a combination of series and parallel. Specifically, cell groups including at least two battery cells 100 adjacent to each other in the Y direction and connected in parallel are stacked in the Y direction and connected in series. On the −X side of the cell stack 10, a positive terminal 104 drawn from a battery cell 100 of one cell group connected in parallel and a negative terminal 106 drawn from a battery cell 100 of another cell group connected in parallel are electrically connected to each other, forming a terminal group 108 including the positive terminal 104 and the negative terminal 106. The positive terminal 104 and the negative terminal 106 in the terminal group 108 are joined to each other by, for example, laser welding. A terminal group is similarly formed on the +X side of the cell stack 10. Thus, a plurality of cell groups are connected in series from the cell group located at one end of the cell stack 10 in the Y direction to the cell group located at the other end of the cell stack 10 in the Y direction.

[0022] The electrical connection of the plurality of battery cells 100 is not limited to the above example. For example, the cell stack 10 may be configured by connecting single battery cells 100 in series.

[0023] The voltage detection device 20 detects the voltages of the multiple battery cells 100. The voltage detection device 20 has a protector 200, multiple voltage detection terminals 210, a positive bus bar 232, and a negative bus bar 234.

[0024] The protector 200 covers the −X side portion of the cell stack 10. The protector 200 defines a plurality of openings 202. Each of the plurality of terminal groups 108 is exposed toward the −X side through each of the plurality of openings 202. The protector 200 integrally holds a plurality of voltage detection terminals 210. Therefore, by installing the protector 200 at an appropriate position relative to the cell stack 10, each of the plurality of voltage detection terminals 210 can be disposed at an appropriate position relative to each of the plurality of terminal groups 108.

[0025] The +X side surface of each voltage detection terminal 210 and the −X side surface of each terminal group 108 are joined to each other by a joining method such as laser welding. Thus, each voltage detection terminal 210 and each terminal group 108 are electrically connected to each other. Therefore, each voltage detection terminal 210 can detect the voltage of each terminal group 108. One end of a voltage detection wire such as a harness (not shown) is electrically connected to each voltage detection terminal 210. Thus, the multiple voltage detection terminals 210 can be electrically connected to a connector (not shown) via the multiple voltage detection wires.

[0026] The positive electrode bus bar 232 is disposed at the end of the protector 200 on the −Y side. The positive electrode bus bar 232 is electrically connected to the positive electrode terminal 104 drawn out from the cell group located at the end of the −Y side of the cell stack 10. The positive electrode bus bar 232 functions as an external terminal for electrically connecting the battery module 1 to an external device such as another battery module.

[0027] The negative electrode bus bar 234 is disposed at the end on the +Y side of the protector 200. The negative electrode bus bar 234 is electrically connected to the negative electrode terminal 106 drawn out from the cell group located at the end on the +Y side of the cell stack 10. The negative electrode bus bar 234 functions as an external terminal for electrically connecting the battery module 1 to an external device such as another battery module.

[0028] In the first embodiment, the positive electrode terminal 104 at the end of a group of multiple cells connected in series is the positive electrode terminal 104 drawn toward the −X side from the battery cell 100 of the cell group located at the end on the −Y side of the cell stack 10, and the negative electrode terminal 106 at the end of a group of multiple cells connected in series is the negative electrode terminal 106 drawn toward the −X side from the battery cell 100 of the cell group located at the end on the +Y side of the cell stack 10. Therefore, the positive electrode bus bar 232 and the negative electrode bus bar 234 are both arranged on the −X side of the battery cell 100. However, the arrangement of the positive electrode terminal 104 and the negative electrode terminal 106 at the end of a group of multiple cells connected in series may differ depending on the number of battery cells 100 included in the cell stack 10. For example, consider a case where the positive electrode terminal 104 at the end of a group of multiple cells connected in series is the positive electrode terminal 104 drawn out toward the +X side from the battery cell 100 of the cell group located at the end on the -Y side of the cell stack 10, and the negative electrode terminal 106 at the end of a group of multiple cells connected in series is the negative electrode terminal 106 drawn out toward the -X side from the battery cell 100 of the cell group located at the end on the +Y side of the cell stack 10. In this case, the positive electrode bus bar 232 is arranged on the +X side of the cell stack 10, and the negative electrode bus bar 234 is arranged on the -X side of the cell stack 10.

[0029] A plurality of temperature sensor devices 30A are provided in the voltage detection device 20. In the example shown in Fig. 1, when viewed from the X direction, a plurality of temperature sensor devices 30A are provided in approximately the center in the Y direction of the +Z side portion of the protector 200 and at the end on the -Y side of the +Z side portion of the protector 200. However, the number and arrangement of the plurality of temperature sensor devices 30A are not limited to this example. For example, the number of temperature sensor devices 30A provided in the voltage detection device 20 may be only one.

[0030] The housing 40 includes a first plate 410, a second plate 420, a third plate 430, a fourth plate 440, a fifth plate 450, and a sixth plate 460. Each plate is made of a metal such as aluminum. The first plate 410 covers the −X side of the cell stack 10, with the voltage detection device 20 positioned between the cell stack 10 and the first plate 410. The second plate 420 covers the +X side of the cell stack 10. The third plate 430 covers the −Y side of the cell stack 10. The fourth plate 440 covers the +Y side of the cell stack 10. The fifth plate 450 covers the −Z side of the cell stack 10, with a thermally conductive adhesive 452 positioned between the cell stack 10 and the fifth plate 450. The cell stack 10 and the fifth plate 450 are bonded to each other via the thermally conductive adhesive 452. The cell stack 10 and the fifth plate 450 are thermally bonded to each other via a thermally conductive adhesive 452. Therefore, heat generated from the cell stack 10 can be dissipated toward the -Z side of the battery module 1 through the thermally conductive adhesive 452. The sixth plate 460 covers the +Z side of the cell stack 10, with a plurality of structural adhesives 462 positioned between the cell stack 10 and the sixth plate 460. In the example shown in FIG. 1 , the plurality of structural adhesives 462 extend in the Y direction. However, the arrangement of the plurality of structural adhesives 462 is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 1 . The cell stack 10 and the sixth plate 460 are bonded to each other via the plurality of structural adhesives 462.

[0031] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the temperature sensor device 30A according to the first embodiment in a state where the temperature sensor element 320 is supported substantially perpendicular to the battery cell 100. Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the temperature sensor device 30A according to the first embodiment in a state where the temperature sensor element 320 is supported obliquely to the battery cell 100. Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the temperature sensor device 30A according to the first embodiment in a state where the temperature sensor element 320 is supported substantially parallel to the battery cell 100.

[0032] Hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, the term "the temperature sensor element 320 is supported approximately perpendicular to the battery cell 100" means that the temperature sensor element 320 is supported approximately perpendicular to a plane perpendicular to the Z direction. Hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, the term "the temperature sensor element 320 is supported approximately parallel to the battery cell 100" means that the temperature sensor element 320 is supported approximately parallel to a plane perpendicular to the Z direction. Hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, the term "the temperature sensor element 320 is supported obliquely to the battery cell 100" means that the temperature sensor element 320 is supported obliquely to a plane perpendicular to the Z direction.

[0033] A temperature sensor device 30A according to a first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG.

[0034] As shown in FIG. 2, the temperature sensor device 30A according to the first embodiment includes a support 310A and a temperature sensor element 320.

[0035] The support 310A is formed of a resin such as polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), etc. The resin forming the support 310A may or may not be flexible. As shown in FIG. 2 , the support 310A includes a base end 312A, a lead-out portion 314A, a mounting portion 316A, and a connection portion 318A.

[0036] 2, the base end portion 312A has a generally plate-like shape perpendicular to the X direction. However, the shape of the base end portion 312A is not limited to this example. For example, the base end portion 312A is held by the protector 200 in a state where at least a portion of the base end portion 312A is inserted into the protector 200. The method of holding the base end portion 312A by the protector 200 is not limited to this example.

[0037] The lead-out portion 314A is led out from the base end portion 312A. In the example shown in Fig. 2, the lead-out portion 314A has a generally plate-like shape perpendicular to the X direction. However, the shape of the lead-out portion 314A is not limited to this example. In the example shown in Fig. 2, the base end portion 312A and the lead-out portion 314A are located on approximately the same plane that is generally perpendicular to the X direction when the lead-out portion 314A is not bent relative to the base end portion 312A.

[0038] The mounting portion 316A is positioned offset toward the +Y side relative to the drawer portion 314A. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the drawer portion 314A has a generally plate-like shape perpendicular to the X direction. However, the shape of the mounting portion 316A is not limited to this example. In the example shown in FIG. 2, a temperature sensor element 320 is attached to the +X side surface of the mounting portion 316A. The temperature sensor element 320 includes, for example, a thermistor. The temperature sensor element 320 can detect the temperature of the battery cell 100 when the +Z side of the battery cell 100 and the −Z side surface of the temperature sensor element 320 are in contact with each other. In the example shown in FIG. 2, when viewed from the X direction, the temperature sensor element 320 has a generally rectangular shape with a pair of short sides generally parallel to the Y direction and another pair of long sides generally parallel to the Z direction. The temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the battery cell 100 is not limited to the temperature sensor element 320 according to the first embodiment. For example, the shape of the temperature sensor element 320 is not limited to this example. 2, the +X side surface of the mounting portion 316A and the −X side surface of the temperature sensor element 320 are bonded to each other, for example, with an adhesive. However, the method for attaching the mounting portion 316A and the temperature sensor element 320 to each other is not limited to this example.

[0039] The lead-out portion 314A and the mounting portion 316A are connected to each other via a connecting portion 318A. The connecting portion 318A is located between the lead-out portion 314A and the mounting portion 316A in the Y direction. In the example shown in FIG. 2, slits are provided on both sides of the connecting portion 318A of the support body 310A in the Z direction. These slits can function as markers for attaching the mounting portion 316A and the temperature sensor element 320 to each other. For example, the mounting portion 316A and the temperature sensor element 320 may be attached to each other with the -Y side edge of the temperature sensor element 320 at least partially aligned with the slit. However, the slit does not have to be provided.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 2 , a notch 313A is provided on the +X-side surface between the +Z-side end of the base end 312A of the support 310A and the −Z-side end of the lead-out portion 314A. The notch 313A extends in the Y-direction. In the example shown in FIG. 2 , the thickness in the X-direction of the portion of the support 310A where the notch 313A is provided is less than the thickness in the X-direction of the portion of the support 310A where the notch 313A is not provided. Therefore, the portion of the support 310A where the notch 313A is provided is a locally weak portion of the support 310A. Therefore, this portion of the support 310A defines a rotation axis that allows the lead-out portion 314A to rotate around the Y-direction relative to the base end 312A. Therefore, this portion of the support 310A serves as a mechanism by which the support 310A rotatably supports the temperature sensor element 320.

[0041] In the example shown in Fig. 2, when viewed from the Y direction, the notch 313A has a generally triangular concave shape that narrows in the Z direction toward the -X side. Therefore, when the lead-out portion 314A is bent at a generally right angle to the base end portion 312A when viewed from the Y direction as shown in Fig. 4, it is possible to prevent interference between the base end portion 312A and the portions of the lead-out portion 314A near the notch 313A. However, the shape of the notch 313A when viewed from the Y direction is not limited to the example shown in Fig. 2.

[0042] The notch 313A may be provided on the −X side surface between the +Z side end of the base end 312A of the support 310A and the −Z side end of the drawer 314A. Even if the notch 313A is provided on the −X side surface of the support 310A, the portion of the support 310A where the notch 313A is provided can define a rotation axis that enables the drawer 314A to rotate around the Y direction relative to the base end 312A.

[0043] As shown in Fig. 2, a pair of first guide protrusions 350A are provided on the +X side surface of the base end portion 312A. In the example shown in Fig. 2, the base end portion 312A and the pair of first guide protrusions 350A are integrally molded. However, the base end portion 312A and the pair of first guide protrusions 350A may be separate members joined together. The pair of first guide protrusions 350A face each other in the Y direction with a gap between them.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 2, a first locking hole 352A and a second locking hole 354A are provided on the +Y side surface of the -Y side first guide protrusion 350A. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the -Y side ends of the first locking hole 352A and the second locking hole 354A penetrate the -Y side surface of the -Y side first guide protrusion 350A. However, the -Y side ends of the first locking hole 352A and the second locking hole 354A do not have to penetrate the -Y side surface of the -Y side first guide protrusion 350A. When viewed from the -Y side, the second locking hole 354A is positioned clockwise relative to the first locking hole 352A on the same circumference centered on the notch 313A.

[0045] As shown in FIG. 2 , a second guide protrusion 360A is provided on the +X side surface of the drawer portion 314A. In the example shown in FIG. 2 , the drawer portion 314A and the second guide protrusion 360A are integrally molded. However, the drawer portion 314A and the second guide protrusion 360A may be separate members joined together. When viewed from the Y direction, the gap between the pair of first guide protrusions 350A and the second guide protrusion 360A are located on the same circumference with the notch 313A as the center. The dimension of the second guide protrusion 360A in the Y direction is less than the dimension of the gap between the pair of first guide protrusions 350A in the Y direction. Therefore, when the drawer portion 314A rotates around the notch 313A in the Y direction relative to the base end 312A, the second guide protrusion 360A can enter the gap between the pair of first guide protrusions 350A.

[0046] As shown in FIG. 2, a locking protrusion 362A is provided on the +X side surface of the second guide protrusion 360A. When viewed from the Y direction, the first locking hole 352A, the second locking hole 354A, and the locking protrusion 362A are located on the same circumference with the notch 313A as the center. Therefore, when the drawn-out portion 314A rotates around the Y direction of the notch 313A relative to the base end portion 312A, the locking protrusion 362A can enter the first locking hole 352A or the second locking hole 354A. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the surface on the -Y side of the locking protrusion 362A is convexly curved. Therefore, compared to when the -Y side surface of locking protrusion 362A is partially angular, locking protrusion 362A can be more easily inserted into first locking hole 352A or second locking hole 354A, and locking protrusion 362A can be more easily removed from first locking hole 352A or second locking hole 354A. However, the shape of the -Y side surface of locking protrusion 362A is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 2, and may be partially angular, for example.

[0047] An example of a method for assembling the temperature sensor element 320 into the battery module 1 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0048] 2, the attachment portion 316A and the temperature sensor element 320 are attached to each other in a state where the lead-out portion 314A is not bent relative to the base end portion 312A. Next, the base end portion 312A is held by the protector 200.

[0049] Next, as shown in FIG. 3 , when viewed from the -Y side, the drawer portion 314A, the mounting portion 316A, and the connecting portion 318A are rotated clockwise around the Y direction of the notch 313A. As shown in FIG. 3 , by rotating the drawer portion 314A, the mounting portion 316A, and the connecting portion 318A, the second guide protrusion 360A is at least partially inserted into the gap between the pair of first guide protrusions 350A, and the locking protrusion 362A is inserted into the first locking hole 352A. In the example shown in FIG. 3 , the pair of first guide protrusions 350A function as a guide structure for guiding the second guide protrusion 360A. In the example shown in FIG. 3 , when the locking protrusion 362A is inserted into the first locking hole 352A, the first locking hole 352A and the locking protrusion 362A form a locking structure that locks with each other. The locking structure including the first locking hole 352A and the locking protrusion 362A forms a mechanism whereby the pair of first guide protrusions 350A and second guide protrusions 360A lock the support body 310A while the mounting portion 316A supports the temperature sensor element 320 at an angle relative to the battery cell 100.

[0050] Next, with the base end 312 A held by the protector 200 , the voltage detection device 20 is placed on the −X side of the cell stack 10 .

[0051] Next, as shown in Fig. 4 , when viewed from the -Y side, the drawer portion 314A, the mounting portion 316A, and the connecting portion 318A are further rotated clockwise around the Y direction of the notch 313A. As shown in Fig. 4 , by further rotating the drawer portion 314A, the mounting portion 316A, and the connecting portion 318A, the second guide protrusion 360A is further inserted at least partially into the gap between the pair of first guide protrusions 350A, and the locking protrusion 362A is inserted into the second locking hole 354A. In the example shown in Fig. 4 , during the process of housing the cell stack 10, the voltage detection device 20, and the temperature sensor device 30A into the housing 40, the sixth plate 460 presses the drawer portion 314A, the mounting portion 316A, and the connecting portion 318A against the battery cell 100. In the example shown in Fig. 4, when the locking protrusion 362A is inserted into the second locking hole 354A, the second locking hole 354A and the locking protrusion 362A are locked to each other. The locking structure including the second locking hole 354A and the locking protrusion 362A allows the pair of first guide protrusions 350A and second guide protrusions 360A to function as a mechanism for locking the support body 310A in a state in which the mounting portion 316A supports the temperature sensor element 320 approximately parallel to the battery cell 100. In the example shown in Fig. 4, the temperature sensor element 320 is assembled to the battery module 1 in a state in which the battery cell 100 and the temperature sensor element 320 are in contact with each other.

[0052] 2 to 4, in the first embodiment, the portion of the support body 310A where the notch 313A is provided provides a mechanism that enables the support body 310A to rotatably support the temperature sensor element 320. Therefore, compared to when this mechanism is not provided, it is possible to prevent the drawn-out portion 314A from twisting relative to the base end portion 312A. Therefore, in the first embodiment, it is possible to bring the temperature sensor element 320 into accurate contact with the desired position on the battery cell 100, compared to when the drawn-out portion 314A twists relative to the base end portion 312A.

[0053] In the first embodiment, as shown in Fig. 3 , the support body 310A can be engaged with the mounting portion 316A while supporting the temperature sensor element 320 at an angle relative to the battery cell 100. If the sixth plate 460 presses the temperature sensor element 320 toward the battery cell 100 while the temperature sensor element 320 is supported substantially perpendicular to the battery cell 100, there is a possibility that at least one of the support body 310A and the temperature sensor element 320 will interfere with the sixth plate 460. Furthermore, if the temperature sensor element 320 is disposed substantially parallel to the battery cell 100 and the voltage detection device 20 and the temperature sensor device 30A are disposed on the -X side of the cell stack 10, there is a possibility that at least one of the support body 310A and the temperature sensor element 320 will interfere with the battery cell 100. 3 , when the mounting portion 316A supports the temperature sensor element 320 at an angle relative to the battery cell 100, interference between the sixth plate 460 and at least one of the support body 310A and the temperature sensor element 320, and interference between the battery cell 100 and at least one of the support body 310A and the temperature sensor element 320, can be suppressed. Therefore, in the first embodiment, the workability of assembling the temperature sensor element 320 to the battery module 1 can be improved. Furthermore, in the first embodiment, because the above-mentioned interference is suppressed, the component precision of the temperature sensor device 30A can be improved.

[0054] The first locking hole 352A, the second locking hole 354A, and the locking protrusion 362A are not limited to the example according to the first embodiment.

[0055] For example, the second locking hole 354A does not have to be provided. If the second locking hole 354A is not provided, the support body 310A may not be locked in a state in which the attachment portion 316A supports the temperature sensor element 320 approximately parallel to the battery cell 100. Even if the support body 310A is not locked in a state in which the attachment portion 316A supports the temperature sensor element 320 approximately parallel to the battery cell 100, the temperature sensor element 320 can be accurately brought into contact with the desired position of the battery cell 100.

[0056] The first locking hole 352A and the second locking hole 354A may be provided in the +Y side first guide protrusion 350A instead of or in addition to the -Y side first guide protrusion 350A. When the first locking hole 352A and the second locking hole 354A are provided in the +Y side first guide protrusion 350A, for example, the locking protrusion 362A provided on the +Y side surface of the second guide protrusion 360A fits into the first locking hole 352A and the second locking hole 354A provided on the -Y side surface of the +Y side first guide protrusion 350A.

[0057] 5 is a perspective view of a support body 310A1 according to a first modified example. The support body 310A1 according to the first modified example is similar to the support body 310A according to the first embodiment, except for the following points. The support body 310A1 according to the first modified example does not have the pair of first guide protrusions 350A and second guide protrusions 360A according to the first embodiment. However, similar to the first embodiment, the support body 310A1 according to the first modified example may be provided with the pair of first guide protrusions 350A and second guide protrusions 360A according to the first embodiment.

[0058] In the first modified example, a pair of notches 313A1 are provided on both sides of the Y-axis in a portion of the support 310A1 between the +Z-axis end of the base end 312A and the −Z-axis end of the lead-out portion 314A. Therefore, the portion of the support 310A1 between the pair of notches 313A1 is a locally weak portion of the support 310A1. This portion of the support 310A1 defines a rotation axis that allows the lead-out portion 314A to rotate around the Y-axis relative to the base end 312A. This portion of the support 310A1 therefore functions as a mechanism for the support 310A1 to rotatably support the temperature sensor element 320. The first modified example also suppresses twisting of the lead-out portion 314A relative to the base end 312A compared to a case where this mechanism is not provided. Therefore, similar to the first embodiment, the temperature sensor element 320 can be accurately brought into contact with the desired position of the battery cell 100.

[0059] The number and positions of the notches 313A1 are not limited to the example shown in Fig. 5. For example, the notches 313A1 may be provided on only one side in the Y direction in a portion between the +Z side end of the base end 312A of the support body 310A1 and the -Z side end of the draw-out portion 314A.

[0060] 6 is a perspective view of a support body 310A2 according to a second modified example. The support body 310A2 according to the second modified example is similar to the support body 310A according to the first embodiment, except for the following points. The support body 310A2 according to the second modified example does not have the pair of first guide protrusions 350A and second guide protrusions 360A according to the first embodiment. However, similar to the first embodiment, the support body 310A2 according to the second modified example may be provided with the pair of first guide protrusions 350A and second guide protrusions 360A according to the first embodiment.

[0061] In the second modified example, a plurality of holes 313A2 are provided in the support 310A2 between the +Z end of the base end 312A and the −Z end of the lead-out portion 314A. In the example shown in FIG. 6 , the plurality of holes 313A2 are aligned in the Y direction. Therefore, the portion of the support 310A1 where the plurality of holes 313A2 are provided is a locally weak portion of the support 310A2. This portion of the support 310A2 defines a rotation axis that allows the lead-out portion 314A to rotate around the Y direction relative to the base end 312A. This portion of the support 310A2 therefore functions as a mechanism for the support 310A2 to rotatably support the temperature sensor element 320. The second modified example also suppresses twisting of the lead-out portion 314A relative to the base end 312A compared to a case where this mechanism is not provided. Therefore, similar to the first embodiment, the temperature sensor element 320 can be accurately brought into contact with the desired position of the battery cell 100.

[0062] The number and positions of the holes 313A2 are not limited to the example shown in Fig. 6. For example, a single hole 313A2 may be provided in a portion between the +Z side end of the base end 312A of the support 310A2 and the -Z side end of the lead-out portion 314A.

[0063] Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the temperature sensor device 30B according to the second embodiment in a state where the temperature sensor element 320 is supported at an angle relative to the battery cell 100. Fig. 8 is an enlarged view of a portion of the temperature sensor device 30B according to the second embodiment in a state where the temperature sensor element 320 is supported at an angle relative to the battery cell 100. Fig. 9 is a perspective view of the temperature sensor device 30B according to the second embodiment in a state where the temperature sensor element 320 is supported approximately parallel to the battery cell 100. The temperature sensor device 30B according to the second embodiment is similar to the temperature sensor device 30A according to the first embodiment except for the following points.

[0064] A temperature sensor device 30B according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 7 to 9. In Figure 8, a white circle with an X indicating the Y direction indicates that the tip of the arrow indicating the Y direction is pointing into the paper.

[0065] As shown in Fig. 7, the temperature sensor device 30B according to the second embodiment includes a partial protector 300B, a support 310B, a temperature sensor element 320, and a plurality of temperature sensor wires 330. In Fig. 9, the plurality of temperature sensor wires 330 have been removed for ease of explanation.

[0066] The partial protector 300B is a portion of the protector 200 to which the support 310B is attached. A pair of pipe portions 302B is provided on the +X side surface of the partial protector 300B. As shown in FIGS. 7 and 9, the pair of pipe portions 302B are aligned in the Y direction. As shown in FIG. 8, when viewed from the -Y side, the -Y side pipe portion 302B has a generally C-shape extending counterclockwise around the Y direction from the first end face 302Ba to the second end face 302Bb of the -Y side pipe portion 302B. As shown in FIG. 8, the -Y side pipe portion 302B opens toward the +X side between the first end face 302Ba and the second end face 302Bb. The shape of the +Y side pipe portion 302B can also be the same as the shape of the -Y side pipe portion 302B. However, the shape of each pipe portion 302B is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 8. A locking hole 350B is provided on the +X side surface of the partial protector 300B. In the examples shown in Figures 7 and 9, the locking hole 350B is located on the -Y side with respect to the -Y side pipe portion 302B.

[0067] The support body 310B is made of a resin such as PP, and includes a shaft portion 312B, a lead-out portion 314B, a mounting portion 316B, a first extending portion 319Ba, and a second extending portion 319Bb, as shown in FIG.

[0068] The shaft portion 312B extends in the Y direction. The shaft portion 312B is rotatable in the Y direction with both Y-direction ends of the shaft portion 312B inserted into the pair of tube portions 302B. A locking protrusion 360B is provided at the -Y side end of the shaft portion 312B. The locking protrusion 360B is located on the -Y side of the -Y side tube portion 302B. When viewed from the Y direction, the locking hole 350B and the locking protrusion 360B are located on the same circumference with the shaft portion 312B as the center. Therefore, by rotating the shaft portion 312B in the Y direction, the locking protrusion 360B can fit into the locking hole 350B.

[0069] The lead-out portion 314B is led out from the shaft portion 312B via a first extension portion 319Ba and a second extension portion 319Bb. As shown in FIG. 8 , the first extension portion 319Ba extends through an opening between the first end surface 302Ba of the -Y side tube portion 302B and the tube portion 302B. The second extension portion 319Bb extends between the +X side end of the first extension portion 319Ba and the -X side end of the lead-out portion 314B. When viewed from the -Y side, the radial direction from the shaft portion 312B to the -X side end of the lead-out portion 314B is offset counterclockwise around the Y direction of the shaft portion 312B with respect to the radial direction from the shaft portion 312B to the +X side end of the first extension portion 319Ba. The shapes of the lead-out portion 314B, the first extending portion 319Ba, and the second extending portion 319Bb are not limited to the examples shown in FIGS.

[0070] The mounting portion 316B is positioned offset toward the +Y side with respect to the drawn-out portion 314B. A temperature sensor element 320 is attached to the -Z side surface of the mounting portion 316B. In the second embodiment, a member equivalent to the connecting portion 318A according to the first embodiment is not provided between the drawn-out portion 314B and the mounting portion 316B. However, also in the second embodiment, a member equivalent to the connecting portion 318A according to the first embodiment may be provided between the drawn-out portion 314B and the mounting portion 316B.

[0071] 7, a plurality of temperature sensor wires 330 are drawn out from the temperature sensor element 320. In the example shown in Fig. 7, the plurality of temperature sensor wires 330 pass through through holes provided in the second extending portion 319Bb and are routed by the partial protector 300B.

[0072] In the second embodiment, the pair of tube portions 302B and the shaft portion 312B form a hinge for rotating the support body 310B around the Y direction of the shaft portion 312B. Therefore, the hinge including the pair of tube portions 302B and the shaft portion 312B forms a mechanism for the support body 310B to rotatably support the temperature sensor element 320. Therefore, in the second embodiment, the temperature sensor element 320 can be brought into contact with the desired position of the battery cell 100 more accurately than in a case where this mechanism is not provided.

[0073] An example of a method for assembling the temperature sensor element 320 to the battery module 1 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0074] First, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 , with the mounting portion 316B and the temperature sensor element 320 attached to each other, the shaft portion 312B is inserted into the pair of tube portions 302B. In the example shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 , the -Z side portion of the opening edge around the X-direction of the locking hole 350B and the tip of the locking protrusion 360B are in at least partial contact with each other. With this portion of the opening edge of the locking hole 350B and the tip of the locking protrusion 360B in at least partial contact with each other, the locking hole 350B and the locking protrusion 360B form an locking structure that locks with each other. The locking structure including the locking hole 350B and the locking protrusion 360B can restrict clockwise rotation of the shaft portion 312B in the Y-direction when viewed from the -Y side. In the example shown in FIG. 8 , the first end face 302Ba of the −Y-side tube portion 302B and the +Z-side surface of the first extension portion 319Ba are at least partially in contact with each other. With the first end face 302Ba of the −Y-side tube portion 302B and the +Z-side surface of the first extension portion 319Ba in at least partial contact with each other, the −Y-side tube portion 302B and the first extension portion 319Ba are locked to each other. The locking structure including the tube portion 302B and the first extension portion 319Ba restricts counterclockwise rotation of the shaft portion 312B around the Y direction as viewed from the −Y side. The locking structure shown in FIG. 8 is also applied to the +Y-side tube portion 302B. However, the locking structure shown in FIG. 8 may be applied to only one of the pair of tube portions 302B. Therefore, the tube portions 302B, first extending portions 319Ba, locking holes 350B, and locking projections 360B function as a mechanism for locking the support body 310B in a state in which the mounting portions 316B support the temperature sensor element 320 at an angle relative to the battery cell 100. Therefore, similar to the first embodiment, the second embodiment also improves the workability of assembling the temperature sensor element 320 into the battery module 1.

[0075] Next, as shown in FIG. 9 , when viewed from the −Y side, the support 310B is rotated clockwise around the Y direction of the shaft 312B. In the example shown in FIG. 9 , the locking protrusion 360B is pushed toward the locking hole 350B, causing at least one of the −Z side portion of the opening edge around the X direction of the locking hole 350B and the tip portion of the locking protrusion 360B perpendicular to the Y direction to bend at least partially. Therefore, the locking protrusion 360B shown in FIG. 9 is recessed further back on the −X side of the locking hole 350B than the locking protrusion 360B shown in FIG. 7 . In the example shown in FIG. 9 , during the process of housing the cell stack 10, the voltage detection device 20, and the temperature sensor device 30B in the housing 40, the sixth plate 460 presses the drawer portion 314B and the mounting portion 316B against the battery cell 100. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the temperature sensor element 320 is assembled to the battery module 1 in a state where the battery cell 100 and the temperature sensor element 320 are in contact with each other.

[0076] The tube portion 302B, the shaft portion 312B, the locking hole 350B, and the locking protrusion 360B are not limited to the example according to the second embodiment.

[0077] For example, the tube portion 302B and the shaft portion 312B that configure the hinge are not limited to the example according to embodiment 2. For example, the shaft portion 312B may be inserted through three or more tube portions 302B.

[0078] For example, instead of or in addition to the -Y side of the -Y side pipe portion 302B, the locking hole 350B and the locking protrusion 360B may be provided on the +Y side of the +Y side pipe portion 302B.

[0079] Although the embodiments and modifications of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings, these are merely examples of the present invention, and various configurations other than those described above can also be adopted.

[0080] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-033641, filed March 6, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0081] 1 Battery module, 10 Cell stack, 20 Voltage detection device, 30A, 30B Temperature sensor device, 40 Housing, 100 Battery cell, 102 Exterior material, 104 Positive electrode terminal, 106 Negative electrode terminal, 108 Terminal group, 200 Protector, 202 Opening, 210 Voltage detection terminal, 232 Positive electrode bus bar, 234 Negative electrode bus bar, 300B Partial protector, 302B Pipe portion, 302Ba First end surface, 302Bb Second end surface, 310A, 310A1, 310A2, 310B Support, 312A Base end portion, 312B Shaft portion, 313A, 313A1 Notch, 313A2 Hole, 314A, 314B Pull-out portion, 316A, 316B Mounting portion, 318A Connection portion, 319Ba First extension portion, 319Bb Second extension portion, 320 Temperature sensor element, 330 Temperature sensor wire, 350A First guide protrusion, 350B Locking hole, 352A First locking hole, 354A Second locking hole, 360A Second guide protrusion, 360B Locking protrusion, 362A Locking protrusion, 410 First plate, 420 Second plate, 430 Third plate, 440 Fourth plate, 450 Fifth plate, 452 Thermally conductive adhesive, 460 Sixth plate, 462 Structural adhesive

Claims

1. A temperature sensor device comprising: a support; a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of a battery cell; and a mechanism for rotatably supporting the temperature sensor on the support.

2. The temperature sensor device of claim 1, wherein said mechanism has an axis of rotation defined by a localized weakening of said support.

3. The temperature sensor device of claim 1, wherein the mechanism includes a hinge for rotating the support.

4. A battery module comprising: the battery cell; and the temperature sensor device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

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