JP6755741B2 - Battery device and battery system - Google Patents

Description

Embodiments of the present invention relate to battery devices and battery systems.

A battery device in which a plurality of battery cells and modules are housed in a housing is known. In a battery device, for example, a battery cell or module is cooled to extend its life.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2015-201271

Battery devices configured to cool cells and modules evenly can be difficult to assemble and increase manufacturing costs.

The battery device according to one embodiment includes a housing, a second wall, a plurality of battery modules, a support portion, a plurality of fixing portions, and a cooling portion. The housing has a first wall. The second wall is detachably attached to the housing at a position separated from the first wall in the first direction. The plurality of battery modules are arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction inside the housing chamber of the housing provided between the first wall and the second wall. The first surface facing the first wall, the second surface facing the second wall, and the first positioning portion provided on the first surface, respectively, are included. The positioning portion of 1 includes one of a convex portion and a concave portion. The support portion extends in the second direction inside the storage chamber, supports the plurality of battery modules, and fits with the first positioning portion to move the plurality of battery modules in the second direction. A plurality of second positioning portions to be held are provided, and the plurality of second positioning portions include the other of the convex portion and the concave portion. The plurality of fixing portions are provided at positions closer to the second surface than the second surface or the first surface, and fix the plurality of battery modules and the housing to each other. The cooling unit is configured to allow the refrigerant to flow at intervals between the plurality of battery modules. The housing is provided with a first vent connected to a first passage provided between the plurality of battery modules and the first wall. The second wall is provided with a second vent connected to a second passage provided between the plurality of battery modules and the second wall. The cooling unit has a fan configured to flow a gaseous refrigerant from the first vent to the second vent, or from the second vent to the first vent. The housing connects the third wall extending in the first direction, the end of the first wall, and the end of the third wall, and intersects the first direction diagonally. It also has a fourth wall extending in a direction that diagonally intersects the second direction. A gap is provided between the third wall and the plurality of battery modules. The first vent is provided on the fourth wall.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically showing a vehicle according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the battery device of the first embodiment in an exploded manner. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the battery device of the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a perspective view schematically showing the inside of the battery device of the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the battery module of the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the battery module of the first embodiment in an exploded manner. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the battery device of the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing the first fixing member of the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a perspective view schematically showing the battery device according to the second embodiment. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the battery device of the second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the battery unit of the second embodiment in an exploded manner. FIG. 12 is a side view showing the battery unit of the second embodiment in an exploded manner. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the battery device of the second embodiment. FIG. 14 is a perspective view schematically showing the inside of the battery device of the second embodiment. FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the battery device according to the third embodiment. FIG. 16 is a perspective view schematically showing a plurality of battery devices according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 17 is a plan view showing a plurality of battery devices according to the fifth embodiment.

The first embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1 to 8. In this specification, the vertically upper direction is basically defined as the upward direction, and the vertically lower direction is defined as the downward direction. Further, in the present specification, a plurality of expressions may be described with respect to the component elements according to the embodiment and the description of the elements. The components and descriptions in which a plurality of expressions are expressed may be expressed in other expressions not described. Further, components and explanations that are not expressed in a plurality of expressions may be expressed in other expressions that are not described.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically showing a vehicle 10 according to the first embodiment. The vehicle 10 is an example of a battery system. The battery system may be, for example, a photovoltaic power generation system or another battery system such as a household power storage system.

The vehicle 10 is, for example, an electric vehicle, for example, a bus as shown in FIG. The vehicle 10 may be another vehicle such as a passenger car, a light rail, a train, or a tram. The vehicle 10 has a vehicle body 11, a plurality of wheels 12, and a plurality of battery devices 13.

As shown in the drawings, the X-axis, Y-axis and Z-axis are defined herein. The X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are orthogonal to each other. The X-axis is along the width of the vehicle 10. The Y-axis is along the length of the vehicle 10. The Z-axis is along the height of the vehicle 10.

The vehicle body 11 extends in a direction along the Y-axis and has a front portion 11a, a rear portion 11b, and a side portion 11c. The front portion 11a faces the traveling direction of the vehicle 10. The rear portion 11b is located on the opposite side of the front portion 11a.

The side portions 11c of the vehicle body 11 face each direction along the X axis. Ventilation slits 11d are provided on the side portions 11c, respectively. The ventilation slit 11d is a hole for communicating the inside and the outside of the vehicle body 11.

The plurality of battery devices 13 are housed inside the vehicle body 11, and supply electric power to, for example, a motor or an electrical system. The battery device 13 is removably fixed to a beam provided inside the vehicle body 11 by, for example, a screw or a fitting. The battery device 13 is not limited to this.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the battery device 13 of the first embodiment in an exploded manner. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the battery device 13 of the first embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the battery device 13 includes a housing 21, a lid member 22, a plurality of battery modules 23, and a plurality of first fixing members 24. The lid member 22 is an example of the second wall. The first fixing member 24 is an example of a fixing portion.

The housing 21 is made of metal. The housing 21 may be made of other materials such as resin. As shown in FIG. 3, the housing 21 has a bottom wall 31, two first side walls 32, and two square walls 33. The bottom wall 31 is an example of the first wall. The first side wall 32 is an example of a third wall. The square wall 33 is an example of a fourth wall.

The bottom wall 31 is a quadrangular wall extending on an XY plane and extends in a direction along the Y axis. The direction along the Y-axis is an example of the second direction, and the positive direction along the Y-axis (the direction indicated by the arrow on the Y-axis) and the negative direction along the Y-axis (the opposite direction of the arrow on the Y-axis) are defined. Including. The direction along the Y-axis is the longitudinal direction of the battery device 13.

The bottom wall 31 has an inner surface 31a. The inner surface 31a is a substantially flat surface facing in the positive direction along the Z axis (the direction indicated by the arrow on the Z axis, the upward direction). The positive direction and the upward direction along the Z axis are examples of the first direction.

Each of the two first side walls 32 is a quadrangular wall extending on the XX plane and extends in the positive direction along the Z axis. The two first side walls 32 are arranged apart from each other in the direction along the Y axis. The bottom wall 31 is located between the two first side walls 32 in the direction along the Y axis and at a position separated from the two first side walls 32.

The two square walls 33 have an end portion of the bottom wall 31 in the direction along the Y axis and an end portion of the first side wall 32 in the negative direction (opposite direction of the arrow on the Z axis, downward direction) along the Z axis. To connect. The square wall 33 extends in a direction diagonally intersecting the positive direction along the Z axis and diagonally intersecting the direction along the Y axis.

As shown in FIG. 2, the housing 21 further has two second side walls 34. Each of the two second side walls 34 is a quadrangular wall extending on a YY plane and extends in the positive direction along the Z axis from both ends of the bottom wall 31 along the X axis. The two second side walls 34 are arranged apart from each other in the direction along the X axis.

As shown in FIG. 3, the lid member 22 has an upper wall 35 and an edge wall 36. The upper wall 35 is a quadrangular wall extending on an XY plane and extends in a direction along the Y axis. The edge wall 36 is a rectangular wall extending on the XX plane. The edge wall 36 extends in the negative direction along the Z axis from the end of the upper wall 35 in the direction along the Y axis.

The lid member 22 is detachably attached to the housing 21 at a position separated from the bottom wall 31 of the housing 21 in the positive direction along the Z axis. For example, the lid member 22 is attached to the housing 21 with bolts.

The upper wall 35 has an inner surface 35a and an outer surface 35b. The inner surface 35a is a substantially flat surface facing in the negative direction along the Z axis. The inner surface 35a of the upper wall 35 and the inner surface 31a of the bottom wall 31 face each other with a gap. The outer surface 35b is a substantially flat surface facing in the positive direction along the Z axis. The outer surface 35b is located on the opposite side of the inner surface 35a.

A storage chamber C is provided in the housing 21. The accommodation chamber C is provided between the bottom wall 31 of the housing 21 and the upper wall 35 of the lid member 22, and is located between the two first side walls 32. The containment chamber C extends in the direction along the Y axis.

An intake port 33a is provided on each of the two square walls 33 of the housing 21. The intake port 33a is an example of the first ventilation port. The intake port 33a extends in a direction diagonally intersecting the positive direction along the Z axis and diagonally intersecting the direction along the Y axis. For example, the intake port 33a extends in a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the square wall 33 extends.

The lid member 22 is provided with a hood portion 41. The hood portion 41 is provided on the outer surface 35b of the upper wall 35. The hood portion 41 has a cover wall 42 and an end wall 43. In addition, various parts such as a circuit board may be accommodated in the hood part 41.

The cover wall 42 is a rectangular wall extending on an XY plane. The covering wall 42 is provided at a position separated from the outer surface 35b of the upper wall 35 in the positive direction along the Z axis. The end wall 43 connects the cover wall 42 and the upper wall 35. A plurality of exhaust ports 43a are provided on the end wall 43. The exhaust port 43a is an example of the second vent.

The hood portion 41 is provided with ramps Ps. The ramp Ps is an example of a third passage. When a component such as a circuit board is housed in the hood portion 41, the component is isolated from the ramp Ps.

At least a part of the ramp Ps is located between the cover wall 42 and the upper wall 35. One end of the ramp Ps is connected to the containment chamber C, and the other end of the ramp Ps is connected to the plurality of exhaust ports 43a. One end of the ramp Ps is connected to the central portion of the containment chamber C in the direction along the Y axis.

The ramp Ps extends in a direction that slopes downward toward the exhaust port 43a. In other words, the ramp Ps has a path that moves downward from the containment chamber C toward the ramp Ps.

A plurality of exhaust port covers 45 are attached to the outer surface 43b of the end wall 43. The exhaust port cover 45 is an example of a cover. The outer surface 43b of the end wall 43 is located on the opposite side of the inner surface 43c of the end wall 43 facing the ramp Ps.

The exhaust port cover 45 covers the exhaust port 43a and extends in a direction in which the exhaust port cover 45 is inclined downward toward the outside of the exhaust port 43a. In other words, the exhaust port cover 45 is connected to the exhaust port 43a and forms a flow path that faces downward or diagonally downward.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view schematically showing the inside of the battery device 13 of the first embodiment. FIG. 4 shows the housing 21 with a chain double-dashed line. As shown in FIG. 4, the housing 21 has two support frames 51 and two fixed frames 52. The support frame 51 is an example of a support portion.

The two support frames 51 extend in the direction along the Y axis inside the housing 21. The two support frames 51 are arranged apart from each other in the direction along the X axis. The support frame 51 is fixed to the housing 21, for example, the bottom wall 31 and the two second side walls 34 by welding. As a result, the support frame 51 improves the rigidity of the housing 21.

The support frame 51 is formed in the shape of a hollow pipe having a quadrangular frame-shaped cross section. The support frame 51 may have another shape. The support frame 51 has an upper surface 51a. The upper surface 51a is a substantially flat surface oriented in the positive direction along the Z axis.

The support frame 51 is provided with a plurality of recesses 51b. The recess 51b is an example of a second positioning portion. The support frame 51 may have a convex portion as a second positioning portion. The recess 51b is a hole that opens in the upper surface 51a. The recess 51b may be, for example, a recess or a notch. The plurality of recesses 51b are arranged at intervals in the direction along the Y axis.

The fixed frame 52 is provided at a position separated from the support frame 51 in the positive direction along the Z axis. The two fixed frames 52 extend in the direction along the Y axis inside the housing 21. The two fixed frames 52 are arranged apart from each other in the direction along the X axis. The fixing frame 52 is fixed to the housing 21, for example, two second side walls 34 by welding. As a result, the fixed frame 52 improves the rigidity of the housing 21.

The fixed frame 52 is formed in the shape of a hollow pipe having a quadrangular frame-shaped cross section. The fixed frame 52 may have another shape. The fixed frame 52 has an upper surface 52a. The upper surface 52a is a substantially flat surface oriented in the positive direction along the Z axis.

The fixed frame 52 is provided with a plurality of screw holes 52b. The screw hole 52b opens in the upper surface 52a. The screw hole 52b may be opened in another place. The plurality of screw holes 52b are arranged at intervals in the direction along the Y axis.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the battery module 23 of the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the battery module 23 of the first embodiment in an exploded manner. As shown in FIG. 6, the battery module 23 has a plurality of cells 61, a holder 62, and a plurality of bus bars 63. The cell 61 may also be referred to as, for example, a cell. The holder 62 is an example of a holder, and may also be referred to as a housing, for example.

The cell 61 is, for example, a lithium ion secondary battery. The cell 61 may be, for example, a nickel hydrogen battery, a nickel cadmium battery, or another secondary battery such as a lead storage battery. A lithium ion secondary battery is a type of non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery, and lithium ions in the electrolyte are responsible for electrical conduction.

Examples of the positive electrode material for the lithium ion secondary battery include lithium manganese composite oxide, lithium nickel composite oxide, lithium cobalt composite oxide, lithium nickel cobalt composite oxide, lithium manganese cobalt composite oxide, and spinel type lithium manganese nickel. Various materials such as composite oxides and lithium phosphorus oxides having an olivine structure are used. As the negative electrode material of the lithium ion secondary battery, for example, various materials such as oxide-based materials such as lithium titanate (LTO), carbonaceous materials, and silicon-based materials are used. As the electrolyte (for example, the electrolytic solution) of the lithium ion secondary battery, for example, a lithium salt such as a fluorine-based complex salt (for example, LiBF4, LiPF6) is blended, for example, ethylene carbonate, propylene carbonate, diethyl carbonate, ethylmethyl carbonate, etc. Organic solvents such as dimethyl carbonate are used alone or in admixture.

The battery module 23 may have, for example, a circuit board that detects the voltage and temperature of each cell 61. Further, the battery module 23 may have a circuit board that controls charging / discharging of a plurality of cells 61.

The cell 61 is formed in a quadrangular box shape. The cell 61 may be formed in a cylindrical shape, for example. Each of the plurality of cells 61 has a first end portion 61a, a second end portion 61b, and two terminals 61c.

The first end 61a faces in the direction along the Y axis. The direction along the Y axis is an example of the third direction. For example, the first end 61a faces one of a positive direction along the Y axis and a negative direction along the Y axis. The second end 61b is located on the opposite side of the first end 61a. The two terminals 61c are provided at the first end 61a.

The plurality of cells 61 are arranged in a matrix in a direction along the X-axis and a direction along the Z-axis. In other words, the plurality of cells 61 are arranged in a direction intersecting the Y axis. The direction intersecting the Y axis is an example of the direction intersecting the third direction. The first end 61a of the plurality of arranged cells 61 faces in the same direction.

The holder 62 accommodates and holds a plurality of cells 61. The holder 62 is made of synthetic resin. The holder 62 may be made of other materials such as metal. The holder 62 has a first member 65, a second member 66, and a third member 67.

The first member 65 is provided with a plurality of slits 65a. The plurality of slits 65a are recesses opened in the same direction. A plurality of arranged cells 61 are accommodated in the plurality of slits 65a. As a result, the first member 65 holds a plurality of arranged cells 61.

The second member 66 is attached to the first member 65 and covers the cell 61 housed in the slit 65a. The second member 66 is provided with a plurality of holes 66a for exposing the terminals 61c of the cell 61. The third member 67 is attached to the second member 66 and covers the hole 66a.

The plurality of bus bars 63 are arranged between the second member 66 and the third member 67. The plurality of bus bars 63 electrically connect the terminals 61c of the plurality of cells 61 to each other. The plurality of cells 61 are electrically connected at least in series and in parallel.

The battery module 23 has a first end face 23a shown in FIG. 5 and a second end face 23b shown in FIG. The first end face 23a is an example of the first face. The second end face 23b is an example of the second face.

The first end face 23a and the second end face 23b are provided on the first member 65. The first end surface 23a is a substantially flat surface oriented in the negative direction along the Z axis. The second end face 23b is a substantially flat surface facing in the positive direction along the Z axis, and is located on the opposite side of the first end face 23a.

The battery module 23 further includes a plurality of first convex portions 23c and a plurality of second convex portions 23d. The first convex portion 23c is an example of the first positioning portion. The battery module 23 may have a recess as a first positioning portion.

The plurality of first convex portions 23c are provided on the first end surface 23a and project from the first end surface 23a. The first convex portion 23c is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape. The first convex portion 23c may be formed in another shape. In the present embodiment, the two first convex portions 23c and the two other first convex portions 23c are arranged apart from each other in the direction along the X axis.

The plurality of second convex portions 23d are provided on the second end surface 23b and project from the second end surface 23b. The second convex portion 23d is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape. The second convex portion 23d may be formed in another shape. In the present embodiment, the two second convex portions 23d and the two other second convex portions 23d are arranged apart from each other in the direction along the X axis.

Screw holes 23e are provided inside the first convex portion 23c and inside the second convex portion 23d. For example, a metal cylinder provided with a screw hole 23e is insert-molded together with a first convex portion 23c and a second convex portion 23d. The screw hole 23e may be provided only inside the second convex portion 23d.

The battery module 23 further includes two terminal portions 23f. The terminal portion 23f is provided on the second end surface 23b and projects from the second end surface 23b. The terminal portion 23f has a terminal of the battery module 23. The terminal portion 23f is provided with, for example, an electrode to which a connector is attached. The terminal portions 23f of the plurality of battery modules 23 are electrically connected at least in series and in parallel.

As shown in FIG. 3, the plurality of battery modules 23 are arranged inside the accommodation chamber C in the direction along the Y axis with a distance G from each other. The plurality of battery modules 23 are arranged in a row in the direction along the Y axis, but may be arranged in a plurality of rows. A gap G is also provided between the battery module 23 located at the end of the row and the first side wall 32 of the housing 21.

The first end surface 23a of the battery module 23 faces the bottom wall 31 of the housing 21 via a gap. A lower passage Pl is provided between the first end surface 23a of the plurality of battery modules 23 and the bottom wall 31. The lower passage Pl extends in the direction along the Y axis and connects the intake port 33a and the distance G between the plurality of battery modules 23. In other words, the lower passage Pl is connected to the intake port 33a.

The second end surface 23b of the battery module 23 faces the upper wall 35 of the lid member 22 via a gap. An upper passage Pu is provided between the second end surface 23b of the plurality of battery modules 23 and the upper wall 35. The upper passage Pu extends in the direction along the Y axis and connects the ramp Ps and the distance G between the plurality of battery modules 23. In other words, the upper passage Pu is connected to the exhaust port 43a via the ramp Ps. Further, the ramp Ps connects the central portion of the upper passage Pu in the direction along the Y axis and the exhaust port 43a.

The two support frames 51 support the plurality of battery modules 23 at positions separated from the bottom wall 31 in the positive direction along the Z axis. For example, the first end surface 23a of the battery module 23 is supported on the upper surface 51a of the support frame 51. As a result, the lower passage Pl is provided between the plurality of battery modules 23 and the bottom wall 31.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the battery device 13 of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, the first convex portion 23c of the battery module 23 is inserted into the concave portion 51b of the support frame 51 in the direction along the Z axis. As a result, the concave portion 51b of the support frame 51 and the first convex portion 23c of the battery module 23 fit into each other.

The concave portion 51b and the first convex portion 23c hold a plurality of battery modules 23 at positions such as intervals G in the direction along the Y axis. The concave portion 51b and the first convex portion 23c restrict the plurality of battery modules 23 from moving relative to each other in the direction along the Y axis and the direction along the X axis.

There may be a gap between the concave portion 51b of the support frame 51 to be fitted and the first convex portion 23c of the battery module 23. That is, when the first convex portion 23c is located in the concave portion 51b, the concave portion 51b and the first convex portion 23c are fitted to each other.

The concave portion 51b and the first convex portion 23c maintain the length (width) of the distance G between the plurality of battery modules 23 in the direction along the Y axis. The length of the distance G between the plurality of battery modules 23 in the direction along the Y axis may be slightly variable. As shown in FIG. 3, the first end 61a and the second end 61b of the cell 61 face the distance G.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing the first fixing member 24 of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 8, the first fixing member 24 has a first plate portion 71, a second plate portion 72, a third plate portion 73, and bolts 75 and 76 in FIG. 7.

The first plate portion 71 and the second plate portion 72 are portions formed in a plate shape extending on an XY plane, respectively. A plurality of holes 71a are provided in the first plate portion 71. A plurality of holes 72a are provided in the second plate portion 72. The third plate portion 73 is a portion formed in a plate shape extending on a YY plane. The third plate portion 73 connects the end portion of the first plate portion 71 and the end portion of the second plate portion 72.

As shown in FIG. 7, the first plate portion 71 is supported by the second convex portion 23d of the battery module 23. For example, the tip of the second convex portion 23d is fitted into the recess provided in the first plate portion 71 and is positioned.

The bolt 75 passes through the hole 71a of FIG. 8 and is screwed into the screw hole 23e of the second convex portion 23d. As a result, the first plate portion 71 is fixed to the second convex portion 23d of the battery module 23. The first plate portion 71 may be welded to the second convex portion 23d.

The second plate portion 72 is supported by the upper surface 52a of the fixed frame 52. The bolt 76 passes through the hole 72a of FIG. 8 and is screwed into the screw hole 52b of the fixing frame 52. As a result, the second plate portion 72 is fixed to the fixed frame 52. The second plate portion 72 may be welded to the fixed frame 52.

As described above, the first fixing member 24 is provided on the second convex portion 23d of the second end surface 23b of the battery module 23. The first fixing member 24 fixes the battery module 23 and the fixing frame 52 of the housing 21 to each other.

As shown in FIG. 3, a fan 78 is provided between the upper passage Pu and the ramp Ps. The fan 78 is an example of a cooling unit and a fan. The fan 78 may be provided at another position, for example, a position adjacent to the intake port 33a.

When the fan 78 is driven, the gaseous refrigerant M flows from the two intake ports 33a to the exhaust ports 43a. The gaseous refrigerant M is, for example, air. The air is supplied from the outside of the vehicle 10 through, for example, the ventilation slit 11d of FIG. In FIG. 3, the flow of the refrigerant M is indicated by an arrow. The fan 78 may flow the gaseous refrigerant M from the exhaust port 43a to the two intake ports 33a.

The refrigerant M sucked from the intake port 33a passes through the lower passage Pl and flows into the space G between the plurality of battery modules 23 or the space G between the battery module 23 and the first side wall 32. That is, the fan 78 allows the refrigerant M to flow in the interval G between the plurality of battery modules 23.

The refrigerant M flowing through the interval G cools the first end 61a and the second end 61b of the cell 61 facing the interval G. The cell 61, which generates heat during charging and discharging, is cooled by the refrigerant M. The refrigerant M flows from the interval G through the upper passage Pu to the ramp Ps. The refrigerant M on the ramp Ps is discharged to the outside of the battery device 13 from the exhaust port 43a.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the battery device 13 further includes a plurality of spacers 79. The spacer 79 is made of, for example, a synthetic resin foam (sponge) such as Eptsealer®. The spacer 79 may be made of another material. Further, the battery device 13 does not have to have the spacer 79.

The spacer 79 is formed, for example, in a square columnar shape extending in a direction along the Z axis. The spacer 79 may be formed in another shape. In the direction along the X-axis, the width of the spacer 79 is substantially the same as the width of the support frame 51. The spacer 79 is attached to the battery module 23 with, for example, double-sided tape, and is arranged at intervals G.

Two spacers 79 are arranged at each of the plurality of intervals G. The two spacers 79 are arranged apart from each other in the direction along the X axis. The flow path through which the refrigerant M passes at the interval G is formed between the two spacers 79.

The spacer 79 keeps two adjacent battery modules 23 at positions separated by a gap G. As a result, the refrigerant M more reliably flows through the interval G and cools the cell 61. Further, the spacer 79 prevents the two adjacent battery modules 23 from coming into contact with each other and being damaged.

Hereinafter, an example of the method of assembling the battery device 13 described above will be described. First, the plurality of battery modules 23 are stored in the housing 21 from which the lid member 22 has been removed. By fitting the first convex portion 23c of the battery module 23 and the concave portion 51b of the support frame 51, the plurality of battery modules 23 can be easily positioned without tools. As a result, an interval G is formed between the plurality of battery modules 23. At this time, the battery module 23 can move in the positive direction along the Z axis.

Next, the second convex portion 23d of the plurality of battery modules 23 and the fixing frame 52 are fixed by the first fixing member 24. At this time, for example, screwing work with bolts 75 and 76 occurs. The second convex portion 23d and the fixed frame 52 are closer to the open upper end portion of the housing 21 than the support frame 51. Therefore, the operator can easily screw the bolts 75 and 76.

When the battery module 23 is fixed to the fixed frame 52 by the first fixing member 24, the movement of the battery module 23 in the positive direction along the Z axis is also restricted. As a result, the battery module 23 is fixed to the housing 21.

Next, the terminal portions 23f of the plurality of battery modules 23 are electrically connected to each other by, for example, a connector. Then, the lid member 22 is attached to the housing 21. As described above, the battery device 13 is assembled.

In the vehicle 10 according to the first embodiment described above, the support frame 51 is provided with a plurality of recesses 51b. The plurality of recesses 51b are fitted with the first convex portion 23c of the battery module 23, and hold the plurality of battery modules 23 at positions such as intervals G in the direction along the Y axis. That is, the battery module 23 has a first convex portion 23c as a first positioning portion, and the support frame 51 has a concave portion 51b as a second positioning portion.

At a position far from the lid member 22 that can be removed from the housing 21, operations such as screwing are generally difficult. However, according to the battery device 13 of the present embodiment, the plurality of battery modules 23 can be easily provided by fitting the first convex portion 23c and the concave portion 51b at a position far from the lid member 22 removable from the housing 21. Positioning is possible.

On the other hand, at a position close to the lid member 22 that can be removed from the housing 21, work such as screwing is generally easy. In the battery device 13 of the present embodiment, the battery module 23 and the housing 21 are placed closer to the second end surface 23b of the battery module 23 near the lid member 22 or to the second end surface 23b than to the first end surface 23a. A first fixing member 24 for fixing to each other is provided. This makes it possible to easily fix the battery module 23 to the housing 21.

As described above, the plurality of battery modules 23 can be easily arranged so as to form an interval G through which the refrigerant M can flow. Therefore, the assembly of the battery device 13 that can be cooled by the refrigerant M becomes easy. By facilitating the assembly of the battery device 13, the increase in the manufacturing cost of the battery device 13 is suppressed. Further, the refrigerant M flowing in the interval G between the plurality of battery modules 23 cools the plurality of battery modules 23, so that the deterioration of the cell 61 is suppressed and the life of the battery device 13 is suppressed to be shortened.

The terminal portion 23f is provided on the second end surface 23b. That is, the terminal portion 23f is arranged at a position close to the lid member 22, which is easy to work with. This makes it easier to electrically connect the terminal portions 23f of the two battery modules 23.

The plurality of cells 61 are arranged in a direction along the X axis and a direction along the Z axis, which intersects the direction along the Y axis to which the first end portion 61a faces. At least one of the first end 61a and the second end 61b of the cell 61 faces the spacing G between the plurality of battery modules 23. As a result, the refrigerant M that the fan 78 flows in the interval G between the plurality of battery modules 23 cools at least one of the first end portion 61a and the second end portion 61b of the plurality of cells 61. Therefore, the plurality of cells 61 of the battery module 23 are uniformly cooled.

The fan 78 causes the refrigerant M to flow from the intake port 33a to the exhaust port 43a. The intake port 33a is connected to the lower passage Pl, and the exhaust port 43a is connected to the upper passage Pu. Therefore, when the refrigerant M flows from the lower passage Pl toward the upper passage Pu, it passes through the interval G between the plurality of battery modules 23. Therefore, the plurality of battery modules 23 are cooled by the gaseous refrigerant M, and the performance deterioration due to the temperature change of the battery module 23 and the cell 61 is suppressed.

The square wall 33 provided with the intake port 33a extends in a direction diagonally intersecting the positive direction along the Z axis and diagonally intersecting the direction along the Y axis. As a result, the direction in which the refrigerant M flows from the intake port 33a into the lower passage Pl intersects diagonally with respect to the direction along the Y axis. Therefore, for example, even if the output of the fan 78 is strong, the refrigerant M can easily pass through the gap G between the first side wall 32 and the battery module 23, and the battery module 23 closest to the first side wall 32 is caused by the refrigerant M. It is cooled. Further, when a plurality of battery devices 13 are arranged in contact with each other, it is possible to prevent the intake port 33a from being blocked by the first side wall 32 of the other battery device 13.

The ramp Ps connecting the upper passage Pu and the exhaust port 43a extends in a direction in which it slopes downward toward the exhaust port 43a. As a result, for example, even if rainwater enters the ramp Ps from the exhaust port 43a, it is discharged from the exhaust port 43a due to gravity. Therefore, it is suppressed that rainwater enters the accommodation chamber C through the ramp Ps.

The exhaust port cover 45 partially covers the exhaust port 43a and extends in a direction in which the exhaust port cover 45 is inclined downward toward the outside of the exhaust port 43a. As a result, the exhaust port cover 45 prevents rainwater from entering the exhaust port 43a.

The second embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS. 9 to 14. In the following description of the plurality of embodiments, the components having the same functions as the components already described may be designated by the same reference numerals as those described above, and the description may be omitted. .. Further, the plurality of components having the same reference numerals do not necessarily have all the functions and properties in common, and may have different functions and properties according to each embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view schematically showing the battery device 13 according to the second embodiment. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the battery device 13 of the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 9, the battery device 13 of the second embodiment has a liquid cooling device 81. The liquid cooling device 81 is an example of a cooling unit, and may also be referred to as, for example, a water cooling device. The liquid cooling device 81 has a plurality of liquid cooling members 82, two supply devices 83A and 83B, and a plurality of pipes 84. The plurality of pipes 84 are an example of a pipeline.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the battery unit U of the second embodiment in an exploded manner. FIG. 12 is a side view showing the battery unit U of the second embodiment in an exploded manner. In the second embodiment, the battery device 13 has a plurality of battery units U.

The battery unit U has one liquid cooling member 82 and one or two battery modules 23. The battery unit U may have three or more battery modules 23. The battery module 23 of the second embodiment is the same as the battery module 23 of the first embodiment.

Hereinafter, the battery unit U having the two battery modules 23 will be described. The liquid cooling member 82 is made of a metal such as aluminum or copper. The liquid cooling member 82 may be made of another material. The liquid cooling member 82 has a cooling portion 91, a first mounting portion 92, a second mounting portion 93, and two projecting portions 94.

The cooling unit 91 is formed, for example, in the shape of a quadrangular plate. The cooling unit 91 may be formed in another shape. As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the cooling unit 91 has a lower end portion 91a, an upper end portion 91b, two side end portions 91c, and two connecting surfaces 91d.

The lower end portion 91a is an end portion of the cooling portion 91 in the negative direction along the Z axis. The upper end portion 91b is an end portion of the cooling portion 91 in the positive direction along the Z axis, and is located on the opposite side of the lower end portion 91a. The two side end portions 91c are the ends of the cooling portion 91 in the direction along the X axis. The two connecting surfaces 91d each face in the direction along the Y axis.

The first mounting portion 92 projects in the positive direction along the Z axis from the upper end portion 91b of the cooling portion 91. A plurality of screw holes 92a are provided in the first mounting portion 92. The screw hole 92a opens in the direction along the Y axis.

The second mounting portion 93 projects in the negative direction along the Z axis from the lower end portion 91a of the cooling portion 91. A plurality of screw holes 93a are provided in the second mounting portion 93. The screw hole 93a opens in the direction along the Y axis.

The two projecting portions 94 project from the two side end portions 91c of the cooling portion 91 in the direction along the X axis. The end of the protrusion 94 in the positive direction along the Z axis is continuous with the upper end 91b of the cooling portion 91. The end of the protrusion 94 in the negative direction along the Z axis is separated from the lower end 91a of the cooling portion 91. The protrusion 94 may be provided at another position.

A flow path 97 is provided inside the liquid cooling member 82. The flow path 97 is a passage through which the liquid refrigerant M can flow. The flow path 97 is formed, for example, in a substantially U shape. The flow path 97 may be formed in another shape.

The two ends of the flow path 97 open to the ends of the first mounting portion 92 in the positive direction along the Z axis. The two ends of the flow path 97 may be opened at other positions. The liquid cooling member 82 provided with the flow path 97 is formed, for example, by brazing a member having a groove and another member.

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the battery device 13 of the second embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 11 to 13, the battery module 23 has a second fixing member 86. The second fixing member 86 has a first plate portion 101, a second plate portion 102, a third plate portion 103, a fourth plate portion 104, and bolts 105, 106, 107.

The first plate portion 101 and the second plate portion 102 are portions formed in a plate shape extending on an XY plane, respectively. A plurality of holes 101a are provided in the first plate portion 101. A plurality of holes 102a are provided in the second plate portion 102. The third plate portion 103 is a portion formed in a plate shape extending on a YY plane. The third plate portion 103 connects the end portion of the first plate portion 101 and the end portion of the second plate portion 102.

The fourth plate portion 104 is a plate-shaped portion extending on the XX plane. The fourth plate portion 104 extends in the positive direction along the Z axis from the end of the first plate portion 101 in the direction along the Y axis. A plurality of holes 104a are provided in the fourth plate portion 104.

As shown in FIG. 13, the first plate portion 101 is supported by the second convex portion 23d of the battery module 23. The bolt 105 passes through the hole 101a of FIG. 11 and is screwed into the screw hole 23e of the second convex portion 23d. As a result, the first plate portion 101 is fixed to the second convex portion 23d of the battery module 23. The first plate portion 101 may be welded to the second convex portion 23d.

The second plate portion 102 is supported by the upper surface 52a of the fixed frame 52. The bolt 106 passes through the hole 102a in FIG. 11 and is screwed into the screw hole 52b of the fixing frame 52. As a result, the second plate portion 102 is fixed to the fixed frame 52. The second plate portion 102 may be welded to the fixed frame 52.

The fourth plate portion 104 is attached to the first attachment portion 92 of the liquid cooling member 82. The bolt 107 of FIG. 12 passes through the hole 104a of FIG. 11 and is screwed into the screw hole 92a of the first mounting portion 92. As a result, the fourth plate portion 104 is fixed to the liquid cooling member 82. In this way, the first mounting portion 92 of the liquid cooling member 82 is mounted on the battery module 23 via the second fixing member 86.

As shown in FIGS. 11 to 13, the battery module 23 has a third fixing member 87. The third fixing member 87 has a first plate portion 111, a second plate portion 112, a third plate portion 113, and bolts 115 and 116.

The first plate portion 111 is a portion formed in a plate shape extending on an XY plane. A plurality of holes 111a are provided in the first plate portion 111. The second plate portion 112 is a plate-shaped portion extending on the YY plane. The second plate portion 112 extends in the positive direction along the Z axis from the end of the first plate portion 111 in the direction along the X axis.

The third plate portion 113 is a portion formed in a plate shape extending on the XX plane. The third plate portion 113 extends in the negative direction along the Z axis from the end of the first plate portion 111 in the direction along the Y axis. A plurality of holes 113a are provided in the third plate portion 113.

As shown in FIG. 13, the first plate portion 111 is supported by the first convex portion 23c of the battery module 23. The bolt 115 passes through the hole 111a in FIG. 11 and is screwed into the screw hole 23e of the first convex portion 23c. As a result, the first plate portion 111 is fixed to the first convex portion 23c of the battery module 23.

The third plate portion 113 is attached to the second attachment portion 93 of the liquid cooling member 82. The bolt 116 of FIG. 12 passes through the hole 113a of FIG. 11 and is screwed into the screw hole 93a of the second mounting portion 93. As a result, the third plate portion 113 is fixed to the liquid cooling member 82. In this way, the second mounting portion 93 of the liquid cooling member 82 is mounted on the battery module 23 via the third fixing member 87.

The first mounting portion 92 is mounted on the battery module 23, and the second mounting portion 93 is also mounted on the battery module 23 at a position separated from the first mounting portion 92. As shown in FIG. 12, the connection surface 91d of the cooling portion 91 is located between the first mounting portion 92 and the second mounting portion 93.

The connecting surface 91d of the cooling unit 91 is formed to be convex toward the battery module 23 attached to the liquid cooling member 82. In other words, the connecting surface 91d swells toward the battery module 23 attached to the liquid cooling member 82. The connection surface 91d of the cooling unit 91 contacts the battery module 23 attached to the liquid cooling member 82 and is thermally connected. For example, thermal paste may be interposed between the connection surface 91d and the battery module 23.

The battery module 23 is thermally connected to each of the two connecting surfaces 91d of the cooling unit 91. That is, the liquid cooling member 82 is interposed between the two battery modules 23. The battery module 23 may be thermally connected only to one connection surface 91d of the cooling unit 91.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view schematically showing the inside of the battery device 13 of the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 14, the recess 51b of the support frame 51 of the second embodiment is a notch that opens to the upper surface 51a.

As shown in FIG. 13, a part of the first convex portion 23c and the third fixing member 87 of the battery module 23 is inserted into the concave portion 51b of the support frame 51 in the direction along the Z axis. As a result, the concave portion 51b of the support frame 51 and a part of the first convex portion 23c and the third fixing member 87 of the battery module 23 are fitted. At this time, the protruding portion 94 of the liquid cooling member 82 is supported by the upper surface 52a of the fixed frame 52.

The recess 51b, the first convex portion 23c, and a part of the third fixing member 87 hold the plurality of battery modules 23 at positions such as intervals G in the direction along the Y axis. In the second embodiment, the liquid cooling member 82 is arranged at the interval G between the plurality of battery modules 23. The battery module 23 of one battery unit U and the battery module 23 of another adjacent battery unit U may come into contact with each other.

There may be a gap between the recess 51b of the fitting support frame 51 and the first protrusion 23c of the battery module 23 and a part of the third fixing member 87. That is, when a part of the first convex portion 23c and the third fixing member 87 is located in the concave portion 51b, the concave portion 51b and the first convex portion 23c and a part of the third fixing member 87 are formed. Are fitted.

The recess 51b and a part of the first convex portion 23c and the third fixing member 87 mean that the plurality of battery modules 23 move relative to each other in the direction along the Y axis and the direction along the X axis. Restrict. The battery module 23 is positioned together with the liquid cooling member 82 as the battery unit U.

As shown in FIG. 9, the plurality of battery units U include a battery unit U having two battery modules 23 and a battery unit U having one battery module 23. The battery unit U having one battery module 23 is arranged substantially in the center of the plurality of battery units U arranged in the direction along the Y axis. In other words, the battery unit U having one battery module 23 is located between the two battery units U each having the two battery modules 23.

As schematically shown in FIG. 9, the plurality of pipes 84 connect the flow paths 97 of the plurality of liquid cooling members 82 and the two supply devices 83A and 83B. Specifically, two of the plurality of pipes 84 connect the two supply devices 83A and 83B and the flow path 97 of the liquid cooling member 82. The rest of the plurality of pipes 84 connect the flow paths 97 of two adjacent liquid cooling members 82.

The plurality of pipes 84 connect the flow paths 97 of the plurality of liquid cooling members 82 in series. Further, the plurality of pipes 84 connect the two supply devices 83A and 83B in parallel to the flow path 97 of the plurality of liquid cooling members 82 connected in series. The plurality of pipes 84 may connect the flow paths 97 of the plurality of liquid cooling members 82 and the two supply devices 83A and 83B in parallel.

The two supply devices 83A and 83B are, for example, pumps. The supply devices 83A and 83B may be other devices. The supply devices 83A and 83B may be connected to one battery device 13 or may be connected to a plurality of battery devices 13. Further, the supply devices 83A and 83B may also serve as a pump for the radiator of the vehicle 10.

The supply devices 83A and 83B supply the liquid refrigerant M to the flow paths 97 of the plurality of liquid cooling members 82 via the plurality of pipes 84. The liquid refrigerant M is, for example, an antifreeze liquid such as a liquid containing ethylene glycol. The liquid refrigerant M may be another liquid.

The liquid refrigerant M supplied from the supply devices 83A and 83B passes through the plurality of pipes 84 and the flow paths 97 of the plurality of liquid cooling members 82 and is returned to the supply devices 83A and 83B. That is, the liquid refrigerant M circulates in the supply devices 83A and 83B, the plurality of pipes 84, and the flow paths 97 of the plurality of liquid cooling members 82.

As described above, the liquid cooling device 81 causes the refrigerant M to flow through the flow path 97 of the liquid cooling member 82 arranged at the interval G between the battery modules 23. The refrigerant M flowing through the flow path 97 of the liquid cooling member 82 at the interval G cools the first end 61a or the second end 61b of the cell 61 facing the interval G.

The feeders 83A and 83B are, for example, pumps. The directions in which the two supply devices 83A and 83B flow the liquid refrigerant M are opposite to each other. By operating one of the two supply devices 83A and 83B, the supply devices 83A and 83B can selectively flow the refrigerant M in two directions. In this way, the two systems of supply devices 83A and 83B can change the direction in which the liquid refrigerant M flows. The supply devices 83A and 83B may be pumps that can rotate in the reverse direction.

For example, when one of the supply devices 83A flows a predetermined amount of the refrigerant M in one direction, the supply device 83A is stopped and the supply device 83B is operated. The supply device 83B flows the refrigerant M in the opposite direction of the supply device 83A. In other words, the two supply devices 83A and 83B are operated alternately to reverse the upstream and downstream of the flow of the liquid refrigerant M. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a temperature difference between the upstream battery unit U and the downstream battery unit U from occurring.

As shown in FIG. 10, the square wall 33 of the housing 21 of the second embodiment is not provided with the intake port 33a. Further, the lid member 22 of the second embodiment is not provided with the hood portion 41. As a result, the battery device 13 can be miniaturized. Further, the battery device 13 is sealed to prevent moisture and dust from entering the inside of the battery device 13.

In the vehicle 10 of the second embodiment described above, the liquid cooling member 82 of the liquid cooling device 81 is arranged at a distance G between the plurality of battery modules 23, and is arranged in at least one of the plurality of battery modules 23. A flow path 97 that is thermally connected and through which the liquid refrigerant M flows is provided. As a result, the plurality of battery modules 23 are cooled by the liquid refrigerant M, and performance deterioration due to temperature changes of the battery modules 23 and cells 61 is suppressed.

At least one of the plurality of battery modules 23 is attached to each of the plurality of liquid cooling members 82. As a result, the battery module 23 and the liquid cooling member 82 are treated as one battery unit U, and the battery module 23 and the liquid cooling member 82 can be easily arranged.

Generally, the portion between the first mounting portion 92 and the second mounting portion 93 mounted on one battery module 23 may be separated from the one battery module 23. However, the connecting surface 91d between the first mounting portion 92 and the second mounting portion 93 of the present embodiment is formed to be convex toward the battery module 23. As a result, the connection surface 91d is suppressed from being separated from the battery module 23, and the liquid cooling member 82 cools the battery module 23 more reliably.

The supply devices 83A and 83B can change the direction of supplying the liquid refrigerant M. As a result, the upstream and downstream of the flow paths 97 of the plurality of connected liquid cooling members 82 can be exchanged, and the plurality of liquid cooling members 82 and the plurality of battery modules 23 are cooled more evenly. Therefore, the performance deterioration due to the temperature change of the battery module 23 and the cell 61 is suppressed.

The two ends of the flow path 97 open to the ends of the first mounting portion 92 in the positive direction along the Z axis. This makes it easy to connect the pipe 84 to the flow path 97. The two ends of the flow path 97 may be provided on the protruding portion 94, for example. In this case, the short circuit of the terminal portion 23f due to the liquid refrigerant M is suppressed.

The battery unit U having one battery module 23 is arranged substantially in the center of the plurality of battery units U arranged in the direction along the Y axis. As a result, the weight balance of the battery device 13 is improved. Further, the cell 61 of the battery module 23 located substantially in the center is difficult to be cooled. However, one battery module 23 located substantially in the center is cooled more efficiently by being independently thermally connected to the liquid cooling member 82.

The third embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG. FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the battery device 13 according to the third embodiment. As shown in FIG. 15, the battery device 13 of the third embodiment has a plurality of battery units U as in the second embodiment. The plurality of battery units U are arranged with each other with an interval G.

The battery device 13 of the third embodiment has a fan 78 as in the first embodiment. When the fan 78 is driven, the gaseous refrigerant M flows from the two intake ports 33a to the exhaust ports 43a.

The refrigerant M sucked from the intake port 33a passes through the lower passage Pl and reaches the space G between the plurality of battery units U (battery modules 23) or the space G between the battery module 23 and the first side wall 32. It flows in. That is, the fan 78 flows the gaseous refrigerant M in the interval G between the plurality of battery modules 23.

The refrigerant M flowing through the interval G cools the first end 61a and the second end 61b of the cell 61 facing the interval G between the battery units U. The refrigerant M flows from the interval G through the upper passage Pu to the ramp Ps. The refrigerant M on the ramp Ps is discharged to the outside of the battery device 13 from the exhaust port 43a.

On the other hand, the liquid refrigerant M is flowed through the flow path 97 of the liquid cooling member 82. The refrigerant M flowing through the flow path 97 of the liquid cooling member 82 at the interval G cools the first end 61a or the second end 61b of the cell 61 facing the interval G.

In the vehicle 10 of the third embodiment described above, the fan 78 allows the gaseous refrigerant M to flow in the interval G between the battery modules 23, and the liquid cooling member arranged in the interval G between the battery modules 23. A liquid refrigerant M is flowed through the flow path 97 of the 82. As a result, the plurality of battery modules 23 are cooled more efficiently. Therefore, the performance deterioration due to the temperature change of the battery module 23 and the cell 61 is suppressed.

The fourth embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG. FIG. 16 is a perspective view schematically showing a plurality of battery devices 13 according to the fourth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 16, the vehicle 10 has a plurality of battery devices 13.

The plurality of battery devices 13 have a common battery module 23. In other words, the battery module 23 of one of the plurality of battery devices 13 and the other battery module 23 of the plurality of battery devices 13 are the same.

On the other hand, the plurality of battery devices 13 include a plurality of battery devices 13 having a different number of battery modules 23. In other words, the number of the plurality of battery modules 23 of the plurality of battery devices 13 is different from the number of the other plurality of battery modules 23 of the plurality of battery devices 13. In this case, the dimensions of the housing 21 and the lid member 22 of one battery device 13 are different from the dimensions of the housing 21 and the lid member 22 of the other battery device 13. A plurality of battery devices 13 having different numbers of battery modules 23 may have a common housing 21 and a lid member 22.

The plurality of battery devices 13 include at least one type of battery device 13 among the battery device 13 of the first embodiment, the battery device 13 of the second embodiment, and the battery device 13 of the third embodiment. That is, the plurality of battery devices 13 may include a plurality of battery devices 13 that are different from each other.

In the vehicle 10 of the fourth embodiment described above, the plurality of battery devices 13 include two battery devices 13 having different numbers of battery modules 23. That is, the number of battery modules 23 connected in series can be changed by changing the dimensions of the housing 21. Then, a battery system having a desired voltage is easily configured by combining a plurality of battery devices 13 having different numbers of battery modules 23.

The fifth embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG. FIG. 17 is a plan view showing a plurality of battery devices 13 according to the fifth embodiment. The plurality of battery devices 13 of the fifth embodiment include at least one type of the battery device 13 of the battery device 13 of the first embodiment and the battery device 13 of the third embodiment. That is, the plurality of battery devices 13 may include a plurality of battery devices 13 that are different from each other.

The plurality of battery devices 13 have a common housing 21. In other words, the housing 21 of one of the plurality of battery devices 13 and the other housing 21 of the plurality of battery devices 13 are the same.

On the other hand, the plurality of battery devices 13 include a plurality of battery devices 13 having different lid members 22. Specifically, the direction in which one exhaust port 43a of the plurality of battery devices 13 faces is different from the direction in which the other exhaust port 43a of the plurality of battery devices 13 faces. Therefore, the direction in which one ramp Ps of the plurality of battery devices 13 extends is different from the direction in which the other ramp Ps of the plurality of battery devices 13 extends.

For example, the exhaust port 43a of one battery device 13 opens in a direction away from another adjacent battery device 13. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the flow of the gaseous refrigerant M discharged from the exhaust port 43a from being obstructed by the other battery device 13.

In the vehicle 10 of the fifth embodiment described above, the plurality of battery devices 13 include two battery devices 13 in which the exhaust ports 43a face in different directions. That is, by changing the lid member 22, the direction in which the exhaust port 43a faces can be changed. The combination of the plurality of battery devices 13 in which the exhaust ports 43a face in different directions further improves the degree of freedom in arranging the plurality of battery devices 13.

According to at least one embodiment described above, the support portion is provided with a plurality of second positioning portions that are fitted with the first positioning portion of the battery module to hold the plurality of battery modules in the second direction. Be done. Further, a fixing portion for fixing the battery module and the housing to each other is provided at a position closer to the second surface of the battery module near the second wall or the second surface than the first surface. Therefore, it becomes easy to assemble a battery device that can be cooled by the refrigerant.

Although some embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other embodiments, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. These embodiments and modifications thereof are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention described in the claims and the equivalent scope thereof.
The contents of the scope of claims at the time of filing are added below.
[1]
A housing with a first wall and
A second wall, which is detachably attached to the housing at a position separated from the first wall in the first direction,
Inside the housing chamber of the housing provided between the first wall and the second wall, the housing is arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and is placed on the first wall. It has a first surface facing, a second surface facing the second wall, and a first positioning portion provided on the first surface, and the first positioning portion is a convex portion. And multiple battery modules, including one of the recesses,
A plurality of second units extending in the second direction inside the storage chamber, supporting the plurality of battery modules, and fitting with the first positioning portion to hold the plurality of battery modules in the second direction. A support portion, wherein two positioning portions are provided, and the plurality of second positioning portions include the other of the convex portion and the concave portion.
A plurality of fixing portions provided at a position closer to the second surface than the second surface or the first surface and fixing the plurality of battery modules and the housing to each other.
A cooling unit configured to allow the refrigerant to flow at intervals between the plurality of battery modules,
A battery device comprising.
[2]
Each of the plurality of battery modules has a terminal portion provided on the second surface.
The terminals of the two battery modules are electrically connected to each other.
The battery device of [1].
[3]
Each of the plurality of battery modules has a plurality of cells and a holder.
The plurality of cells include a first end portion facing in a third direction, a second end portion located on the opposite side of the first end portion, and terminals provided at the first end portion. , Each
The holding body holds the plurality of cells arranged in a direction intersecting the third direction, and holds the plurality of cells.
At least one of the first end and the second end faces the distance between the plurality of battery modules.
The battery device of [1] or [2].
[4]
The housing is provided with a first vent connected to a first passage provided between the plurality of battery modules and the first wall.
The second wall is provided with a second vent connected to a second passage provided between the plurality of battery modules and the second wall.
The cooling unit has a fan configured to flow a gaseous refrigerant from the first vent to the second vent, or from the second vent to the first vent.
A battery device according to any one of [1] to [3].
[5]
The housing connects the third wall extending in the first direction, the end of the first wall, and the end of the third wall, and intersects the first direction diagonally. It also has a fourth wall extending in a direction that diagonally intersects the second direction.
A gap is provided between the third wall and the plurality of battery modules.
The first vent is provided on the fourth wall.
The battery device of [4].
[6]
The second wall is provided with a third passage connecting the second passage and the second vent.
The third passage extends in a direction that slopes downward toward the second vent.
The battery device of [4] or [5].
[7]
A cover that is attached to the second wall, partially covers the second vent, and extends in a downwardly inclined direction toward the outside of the second vent, is further provided [4]. To the battery device according to any one of [6].
[8]
The cooling unit is arranged at intervals between the plurality of battery modules, is thermally connected to at least one of the plurality of battery modules, and is provided with a flow path through which a liquid refrigerant flows. The battery device according to any one of [1] to [7], which has the liquid cooling member of.
[9]
The battery device according to [8], wherein at least one of the plurality of battery modules is attached to each of the plurality of liquid cooling members.
[10]
The plurality of liquid cooling members include a first mounting portion mounted on the battery module, a second mounting portion mounted on the one battery module at a position separated from the first mounting portion, and a second mounting portion. It has a connection surface located between the first mounting portion and the second mounting portion and thermally connected to the one battery module.
The connecting surface is formed to be convex toward the one battery module.
The battery device of [9].
[11]
The cooling unit includes a supply device that supplies the liquid refrigerant to the flow path, and a pipeline that connects the flow path of the plurality of liquid cooling members and the supply device.
The supply device can change the direction of supplying the liquid refrigerant.
The battery device according to any one of [8] to [10].
[12]
A plurality of battery devices according to any one of [1] to [11] are provided.
The battery module of one of the plurality of battery devices and the other battery module of the plurality of battery devices are the same.
The number of the plurality of battery modules of the one among the plurality of battery devices is different from the number of the plurality of battery modules of the other one of the plurality of battery devices.
Battery system.
[13]
A plurality of battery devices according to any one of [4] to [7] are provided.
The battery module and the housing of one of the plurality of battery devices and the other battery module and the housing of the plurality of battery devices are the same.
The direction in which the one second vent of the plurality of battery devices faces is different from the direction in which the other second vent of the plurality of battery devices faces.
Battery system.

10 ... Vehicle, 13 ... Battery device, 21 ... Housing, 22 ... Lid member, 23 ... Battery module, 23a ... First end face, 23b ... Second end face, 23c ... First convex part, 23f ... Terminal part , 24 ... 1st fixing member, 31 ... bottom wall, 32 ... first side wall, 33 ... square wall, 33a ... intake port, 35 ... upper wall, 43 ... end wall, 43a ... exhaust port, 45 ... exhaust port Cover, 51 ... Support frame, 51b ... Recess, 61 ... Cell, 61a ... First end, 61b ... Second end, 61c ... Terminal, 62 ... Holder, 81 ... Liquid cooling device, 82 ... Liquid cooling member , 83A, 83B ... Supply device, 84 ... Pipe, 86 ... Second fixing member, 91 ... Cooling part, 91d ... Connection surface, 92 ... First mounting part, 93 ... Second mounting part, 97 ... Flow path , C ... containment chamber, Ps ... ramp, G ... interval, Pl ... lower passage, Pu ... upper passage, M ... refrigerant, U ... battery unit.

Claims (11)

A housing with a first wall and
A second wall, which is detachably attached to the housing at a position separated from the first wall in the first direction,
Inside the housing chamber of the housing provided between the first wall and the second wall, the housing is arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and is placed on the first wall. It has a first surface facing, a second surface facing the second wall, and a first positioning portion provided on the first surface, and the first positioning portion is a convex portion. And multiple battery modules, including one of the recesses,
A plurality of second units extending in the second direction inside the storage chamber, supporting the plurality of battery modules, and fitting with the first positioning portion to hold the plurality of battery modules in the second direction. A support portion, wherein two positioning portions are provided, and the plurality of second positioning portions include the other of the convex portion and the concave portion.
A plurality of fixing portions provided at a position closer to the second surface than the second surface or the first surface and fixing the plurality of battery modules and the housing to each other.
A cooling unit configured to allow the refrigerant to flow at intervals between the plurality of battery modules,
Equipped with
The housing is provided with a first vent connected to a first passage provided between the plurality of battery modules and the first wall.
The second wall is provided with a second vent connected to a second passage provided between the plurality of battery modules and the second wall.
The cooling unit has a fan configured to flow a gaseous refrigerant from the first vent to the second vent, or from the second vent to the first vent. ,
The housing connects the third wall extending in the first direction, the end of the first wall, and the end of the third wall, and intersects the first direction diagonally. It also has a fourth wall extending in a direction that diagonally intersects the second direction.
A gap is provided between the third wall and the plurality of battery modules.
The first vent is provided on the fourth wall.
Battery device. Each of the plurality of battery modules has a terminal portion provided on the second surface.
The terminals of the two battery modules are electrically connected to each other.
The battery device according to claim 1. Each of the plurality of battery modules has a plurality of cells and a holder.
The plurality of cells include a first end portion facing in a third direction, a second end portion located on the opposite side of the first end portion, and terminals provided at the first end portion. , Each
The holding body holds the plurality of cells arranged in a direction intersecting the third direction, and holds the plurality of cells.
At least one of the first end and the second end faces the distance between the plurality of battery modules.
The battery device according to claim 1 or 2. The second wall is provided with a third passage connecting the second passage and the second vent.
The third passage extends in a direction that slopes downward toward the second vent.
Any one of the cell apparatus of claims 1 to 3. Attached to said second wall, covering the second vent partially Claim 1, further comprising a cover, which extends in a direction inclined downwardly towards the outside of the second vent The battery device according to any one of claims 4 . The cooling unit is arranged at intervals between the plurality of battery modules, is thermally connected to at least one of the plurality of battery modules, and is provided with a flow path through which a liquid refrigerant flows. The battery device according to any one of claims 1 to 5 , further comprising the liquid cooling member of the above. The battery device according to claim 6 , wherein at least one of the plurality of battery modules is attached to each of the plurality of liquid cooling members. The plurality of liquid cooling members include a first mounting portion mounted on the battery module, a second mounting portion mounted on the one battery module at a position separated from the first mounting portion, and a second mounting portion. It has a connection surface located between the first mounting portion and the second mounting portion and thermally connected to the one battery module.
The connecting surface is formed to be convex toward the one battery module.
The battery device according to claim 7 . The cooling unit includes a supply device that supplies the liquid refrigerant to the flow path, and a pipeline that connects the flow path of the plurality of liquid cooling members and the supply device.
The supply device can change the direction of supplying the liquid refrigerant.
The battery device according to any one of claims 6 to 8 . A plurality of battery devices according to any one of claims 1 to 9 are provided.
The battery module of one of the plurality of battery devices and the other battery module of the plurality of battery devices are the same.
The number of the plurality of battery modules of the one among the plurality of battery devices is different from the number of the plurality of battery modules of the other one of the plurality of battery devices.
Battery system. Claim 1 comprising a plurality of cell apparatus any one of claim 9,
The battery module and the housing of one of the plurality of battery devices and the other battery module and the housing of the plurality of battery devices are the same.
A battery system in which the direction in which the one second vent of the plurality of battery devices faces is different from the direction in which the other second vent of the plurality of battery devices faces.

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