WO2006109610A1

WO2006109610A1 - Production method for electric device assembly and electric device assembly

Info

Publication number: WO2006109610A1
Application number: PCT/JP2006/307074
Authority: WO
Inventors: Toshizo Hosoya; Takeshi Kanai
Original assignee: Nec Corporation; Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
Priority date: 2005-04-05
Filing date: 2006-04-04
Publication date: 2006-10-19

Abstract

Battery cells (20) each having sheet-form electrode tabs (25a, 25b) led out from the opposite ends are connected to each other in the following manner. First, battery cells (20) are flatly arranged in one row so that the electrode tab (25a) of one battery cell (20) and the electrode tab (25b) of the other battery cell (20) partially overlap each other. Next, the electrode tabs are connected with each other at the overlapped portions (35A, 35B) where the electrode tabs overlap. Then a plurality of battery cells (20) are laminated one upon another in a staggeringly folded up form.

Description

Manufacturing method of electrical device assembly and technical field of electrical device assembly

TECHNICAL FIELD [0001] The present invention relates to an electric device assembly (for example, an assembled battery) in which a plurality of electric devices such as battery cells are assembled, and a method for manufacturing the same. The present invention relates to a device that uses the extracted electrical device.

Background art

[0002] In recent years, for example, a lightweight and small battery has been developed as a power source for driving a motor of an electric vehicle. As one of this type of battery, an assembled battery in which multiple thin batteries (also called “battery cells”) are assembled is known.

[0003] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2004-6141 (Patent Document 1) discloses a method of connecting electrode tabs when manufacturing such an assembled battery. Hereinafter, the configuration of the assembled battery and the method of connecting the electrode tabs described in the same document will be described with reference to FIG.

[0004] As shown in FIG. 17, the assembled battery 250 includes a plurality of battery cells 220 assembled in a stacked state, and positive and negative electrode tabs 225a and 225b are drawn out from each battery cell 220. Has been. The battery cells 220 that are adjacent to each other are sandwiched between the electrode tabs 225a and 225b and the sandwiching member 240 that also has an insulating material force, whereby the battery cells 220 are electrically connected.

[0005] The connection method disclosed in Patent Document 1 is to connect by sandwiching electrode tabs and bringing them into close contact with each other as described above. In addition to this, for example, laser welding or ultrasonic welding may be used for the connection between the electrode tabs as disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2003-338275 (Patent Document 2).

[0006] The connection method disclosed in Patent Document 1 has the advantage that the electrode tabs can be securely brought into close contact with each other using the clamping member 240. However, since the clamping member 240 is used, it is not suitable for downsizing the assembled battery 250 as a whole.

[0007] On the other hand, the connection method described in Patent Document 2 directly joins the electrode tabs by welding or the like without using a clamping member or the like, which is advantageous for downsizing the assembled battery. It is. However, the connection method described in the same document, like Patent Document 1, involves welding the electrode tabs in a state where a plurality of battery cells are stacked, so there is room for improvement in terms of connection workability. Left behind!

[0008] That is, for example, in order to perform ultrasonic welding, a process of pressing an ultrasonic head against an overlapping portion between electrode tabs is necessary. However, when electrode tabs are welded together in a state in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked three-dimensionally, the pressing process of the ultrasonic head may not be performed satisfactorily because the work space is not secured. . Such workability problems are not limited to ultrasonic welding, and may occur in the same manner even when other welding methods such as laser welding are used.

[0009] In addition, the configuration shown in FIG. 17 is disadvantageous in terms of the viewpoint power to inspect the formed weld afterwards. That is, it is relatively difficult to inspect each welded part after welding with the battery cells overlapped in this way, and an efficient inspection operation cannot be performed.

Disclosure of the invention

[0010] The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to connect the electrode tabs with good workability, and afterwards connect the connection parts (welding parts, etc.). ), Even if it is inspected! It is to provide a method for manufacturing an electrical device assembly. Another object of the present invention is a structure that can be manufactured by using the manufacturing method of the present invention, and the shikaji is also a case where the connecting portion between the electrode tabs is sandwiched between, for example, a pair of members. It is also easy to sandwich the device and provide an electrical device assembly.

[0011] In order to achieve the above object, a method of manufacturing an electrical device assembly of the present invention includes a step of preparing a plurality of electrical devices in which sheet-like electrode tabs are drawn out in opposite directions from two opposing sides; The step of arranging a plurality of electrical devices in a row so that the electrode tabs partially overlap each other due to the relationship between adjacent electrical devices, and the overlapping of the electrode tabs in a state where the plurality of electrical devices are arranged. There are a step of connecting the electrode tabs across the mating portion, and a step of stacking a plurality of electrical devices so as to be folded in a zigzag manner after connecting the electrode tabs.

[0012] In the manufacturing method of the present invention described above, the electric devices are arranged in a line and the electrode tabs are arranged in this state Connection. Therefore, workability is improved as compared with the method of connecting the electrode tabs in a state where the electrical devices are three-dimensionally overlapped as described above. In addition, according to such a method, there is an advantage that the inspection work can be easily performed even when the connection portion is inspected later.

[0013] In the manufacturing method of the present invention described above, in the step of arranging the electric devices in a line, the plurality of electric devices may be arranged so that the electrode tabs of the electric devices adjacent to each other are straight. I like it.

[0014] The present invention is not limited to the arrangement of the electric devices one by one as described above, and may be the following method. That is, another method for producing an electric device assembly of the present invention includes a step of preparing a plurality of electric devices in which opposing two-side force sheet-like electrode tabs are drawn out in opposite directions, and two or more electric devices. Stacking electrical devices and partially overlapping each of the electrode tabs drawn from the electrical devices to form a plurality of electrical device assemblies so that the stacked electrical devices are connected in parallel; In the relationship between adjacent electrical device assemblies, the device assembly is arranged in a row so that the portions where the electrode tabs overlap each other, and the electrode tabs are aligned between the electrical device assemblies. A step of connecting the electrode tabs in the overlapping portion of the electrode, and after connecting the electrode tabs to each other, the electrodes are folded in a zigzag manner. Laminating the device assembly, and has a.

[0015] That is, in this method, electric devices of several forces (for example, two) connected in parallel are paired, and the electric device assembly is connected in the same manner as the above method.

[0016] In common with the above two manufacturing methods, the present invention may further be as follows.

That is, the step of connecting the electrode tabs may include connecting a plate-like member made of a metal material cover to the overlapping portion of the electrode tabs. The step of connecting the electrode tabs may use laser welding or ultrasonic welding. To give a more specific example, the electrode tabs are overlapped from the surface opposite to the side where the plate members are disposed in a state where the plate members are disposed on one surface of the overlapping portion of the electrode tabs. It may include irradiating a laser beam to the mating portion.

[0017] In the electrical device assembly of the present invention, the opposing two side forces are also pulled out in directions opposite to each other. Have multiple electrical devices with sheet-like electrode tabs! The plurality of electric devices are connected in series by connecting the electrode tabs, and are bent in a zigzag manner by bending the electrode tabs. Therefore, in the relationship between two electrical devices that are supported and adjacent to each other, the electrode tabs of one electrical device and the electrode tabs of the other electrical device are pulled out of each electrical device in a direction away from each other. Yes.

[0018] Another electrical device assembly of the present invention is formed by stacking a plurality of electrical devices having sheet-like electrode tabs drawn out in opposite directions to each other with opposing two-side forces so as to be connected in parallel. And a plurality of electrical device assemblies. The plurality of electrical device assemblies are directly connected by connecting the electrode tabs to each other, and are zigzag folded by bending the electrode tabs so that the plurality of electrical device assemblies are electrically connected. The connection between the electrode tabs connected to each other is supported by a fixed support, and is adjacent to one electrical device assembly in one electrical device assembly and one electrical device assembly in the other. In relation to the electric device, the electrode tab of one electric device and the electrode tab of the other electric device are pulled out from the electric devices in a direction away from each other.

[0019] As described above, in common with each electric device assembly, the present invention may further be as follows. It is preferable that the drawing angle α of the electrode tabs drawn out in the direction away from each other is in the range of 0.5 ° to 6.0 ° with respect to the reference line in the drawing direction. In addition, the electrode tabs drawn out from the electrical device in at least one of the plurality of electrical devices including not only the electrode tabs drawn away from each other but also other electrode tabs. The force bent portion may be drawn straight along the reference line in the pulling direction, and the force may be bent at the bent portion. In addition, the fixed support portion is disposed on the opposite side of the bus bar between the bus bar disposed in the region surrounded by the two electrode tabs drawn in the direction away from each other, and cooperates with the bus bar. And a plate-like member that sandwiches the connecting portion. Also

The plate-like member may be bonded to the overlapping portion between the electrode tabs.

[0020] According to the method of manufacturing an electrical device assembly of the present invention, as described above, the electrical device Since the electrode tabs are connected to each other in a lined state, the electrode tabs can be connected with good workability, and it is also advantageous when inspecting the connection parts (welded parts, etc.) afterwards. It is. Further, according to the electric device assembly of the present invention, the pair of electrode tabs are pulled out in a direction away from each other, so that a space between the electrode tabs is widened. Even when the connection portion between the electrode tabs is clamped, the clamping is easy.

Brief Description of Drawings

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a battery cell in a single state.

FIG. 2A is a side view of the assembled battery for illustrating the manufacturing method of the first embodiment.

2B is a plan view of the assembled battery shown in FIG. 2A.

FIG. 3 is a drawing for explaining the manufacturing method according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a specific example of a jig used during welding.

FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the manufacturing method of the second embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining the manufacturing method of the second embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing an assembled battery and a storage box for storing it.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing the storage box of FIG. 7 in a single state.

FIG. 9A is a side view at the connection portion of the electrode tab in the assembled battery for explaining the manufacturing method of the third embodiment.

FIG. 9B is a plan view of the part shown in FIG. 9A.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a pair of members that sandwich a connection portion between electrode tabs.

FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing a state in which the connecting portion between the electrode tabs is sandwiched between the pair of members shown in FIG.

FIG. 12A is a diagram showing a configuration of an assembled battery according to a fourth embodiment.

FIG. 12B is an enlarged view of the lead portion of the electrode tab in FIG. 12A.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a configuration of another assembled battery according to the fourth embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a view showing, as a comparative example, a configuration in which three battery cells having electrode tabs having the same length are assembled.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a configuration of an assembled battery according to a fifth embodiment. FIG. 16A] A diagram showing a state before connection of the cell sample for explaining a method of manufacturing the assembled battery according to the fifth embodiment.

FIG. 16B] A diagram showing a state after connection of the cell assembly for explaining the method of manufacturing the assembled battery according to the fifth embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a method for joining electrode tabs in a conventional assembled battery. Explanation of symbols

20, 120, 120A to 120C battery sensing

22 Battery element

23, 123 Sealing part

24 Exterior film

25a, 25b, 25a \ 25b \ 125 Electrode tab

26a Bent part

26b R

27, 127, 127 'cell assembly

30a, 30b weld

31 cases

32 lids

33 Storage box

35A, 35B, 35C, 35D, 135A, 135B Overlap

36 Fixing member

37 Bar groove

38 Jig

39, 39A Busbar

48 Pressing jig

49 Receiving jig

49a slit

50, 51, 52, 53 batteries

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION [0023] (First embodiment)

As shown in FIG. 1, the battery cell 20 includes a thin battery element 22 that outputs a predetermined electromotive force (for example, 3.6 V) and is hermetically sealed with an exterior film 24. A sealing portion 23 in which the films are fused to each other is formed. From two sides of the sealing portion 23 facing each other, a sheet-like positive electrode tab 25a and a negative electrode tab 25b are drawn out in opposite directions. Such a battery cell is sometimes called a “film-covered battery” because it uses an exterior film as an outer package of the battery element 22! /.

[0024] The electrode tabs 25a and 25b will be described more specifically. The thickness of the electrode tabs 25a and 25b is, for example, about several hundred m (for example, 50πι to 300 / ζ m). Although depending on the material, by setting the thickness of the electrode tabs 25a and 25b to this level, the electrode tabs 25a and 25b have flexibility. By providing the electrode tabs 25a and 25b with flexibility, the electrode tab can be bent in the form shown in FIG.

[0025] Each of the electrode tabs 25a, 25b is connected to the internal battery element 22, and a suitable material is selected according to the polarity. In other words, the material of the electrode tab 25a for the positive electrode is selected from aluminum, an aluminum alloy, or any one of them subjected to alumite treatment or resin coating (“aluminum-based material”). be able to. On the other hand, the material of the electrode tab 25b for the negative electrode is either copper, copper alloy, or a metal plating (for example, nickel plating) applied to them ("Copper-based material" and ヽぅ). You can choose.

[0026] As shown in Fig. 3, the entire assembled battery has a configuration in which a plurality of stacked battery cells 20 are connected in series. In FIG. 3, three battery cells 20 are shown. The number of power battery cells 20 is not limited to this! /. When the electromotive force per battery cell 20 is about 3.6 V as described above, for example, it is preferable to configure the assembled battery 50 by collecting, for example, 12 battery cells. In this case, the total output of the assembled battery as a whole is 43.2 V (3.6 VX 12 units), and the total output is 50 V or less in this way, for example, safety for workers handling the assembled battery 50. It is preferable in terms of increase.

[0027] In addition, FIG. 3 shows a state in which each battery cell 20 is housed in a cell case or the like! However, the present invention is not limited to this. Naturally, each battery cell 20 may be accommodated in a predetermined cell case.

Next, a method for manufacturing the assembled battery 50 configured as described above will be described.

First, a plurality of battery cells 20 are prepared, and these are arranged in a line in a plane (two-dimensional) as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B. In this state, the electrode tab 25a for the positive electrode of one battery cell 20 and the electrode tab 25b for the negative electrode of the battery cell 20 adjacent thereto are partially overlapped with each other. In FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B, the portions where the electrode tabs 25a and 25b are overlapped are shown as overlapping portions 35A and 35B (hereinafter also referred to as “the overlapping portion 35” without distinction). In the overlapping portion 35A, the electrode tab 25b for negative electrode is overlapped on the electrode tab 25a for positive electrode. The other overlapping portion 35B has the opposite configuration.

[0030] In FIG. 2A, the force depicted in a state where the electrode tabs are separated from each other in any of the overlapping portions 35A and 35B. Actually, the electrode tabs are in contact with each other in close contact with each other. Yes. In order to maintain such close contact between the electrode tabs, for example, a predetermined jig (not shown) may be used, or the electrode tabs may be temporarily fixed using an adhesive or the like. . Further, in the present embodiment, the form of superposition is changed in the superposition portions 35A and 35B as described above, but naturally the present invention is not limited to this, and all the superposition portions may have the same form. .

[0031] Next, for example, laser welding is sequentially performed on the overlapping portions 35A and 35B in a state where the battery cells 20 are arranged as described above. Laser welding can be performed, for example, by irradiating a laser beam from the upper surface side while supporting the lower surface side of the overlapping portion 35 with the jig 38. The shape of the welded portion formed in the overlapping portion 35 is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a linear welded portion 30a as shown in the overlapping portion 35A, or the overlapping portion 35B. However, it may be a spot-like weld 30b as shown.

[0032] After the battery cells 20 are connected to each other in this way, the battery cells 20 are folded one by one in a zigzag shape in the form shown in FIG. As a result, an assembled battery 50 in which a plurality of battery cells 20 are stacked is manufactured. [0033] In the overlapping portion 35 in which two electrode tabs are stacked, the rigidity thereof is higher than that of the other portion (the portion having one electrode tab). Therefore, as illustrated in FIG. 3, the overlapping portion 35A remains substantially flat, and the electrode tabs 25a and 25b are curved in a natural R shape at both upper and lower ends of the overlapping portion 35A.

[0034] When a plurality of battery cells 20 are stacked, for example, a spacer (not shown) is used, for example, between lmm to the main surfaces (referred to as maximum area surfaces) of the battery cells 20. It is preferable to secure a gap of about 3 mm. This is because the heat of the battery cell 20 that generates heat during use can be released through this gap.

[0035] As described above, according to the present embodiment, the electrode tabs of adjacent battery cells 20 are welded in a state where the plurality of battery cells 20 are arranged in a line, so that the battery cells 20 are three-dimensionally arranged. Therefore, workability is improved compared to the conventional method. Further, in the connection method of this embodiment, the electrode tabs can be overlapped with each other in a straight (flat) state without bending each electrode tab. Therefore, the tabs are in good contact with each other, so that the occurrence of poor welding is minimized. Further, for example, even when the formed welded portion is inspected after welding is performed on all the overlapping portions 35, this inspection can be performed with a plurality of battery cells 20 arranged in a plane. The inspection work is also easy and easy.

[0036] As described above, other welding methods such as ultrasonic welding can be used as a method for connecting force electrode tabs described for connecting electrode tabs using laser welding. Alternatively, the electrode tabs can be connected to each other using a pair of clamping members as described with reference to FIG. Even in this case, it is possible to improve workability because the clamping member can be attached in a state where the plurality of battery cells 20 are arranged.

[0037] Working with the battery cells 20 arranged in a plane as in the present embodiment has various advantages. For example, in addition to the above, a resin sealant may be applied to the overlapping portions 35A and 35B after welding to make the overlapping portions 35A and 35B airtight. In the overlapping portions 35A and 35B, the electrode tabs 25a and 25b, which are different metals, are in close contact with each other, and such contact between different metals tends to cause problems due to electrolytic corrosion. this In order to prevent this, it is effective to make the contact portion between different metals airtight so that moisture does not enter the contact surfaces of the electrode tabs 25a and 25b.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a specific example of a jig used during welding. The receiving jig 49 is a member that also supports the lower surface side force of the overlapping portion between the electrode tabs 25a and 25b. In the receiving jig 49, a slit 49a is formed corresponding to a region where a welded portion (not shown) is formed. The pair of holding jigs 48 is arranged on the opposite side of the receiving jig 49 with the electrode tabs 25a and 25b interposed therebetween, and is configured so that the overlapping portion can be pressed during welding. By using such jigs 48 and 49, the overlapped portion is stably held, which contributes to improvement in welding reliability. The reason why such jigs 48 and 49 can be used is that the welding process in the present embodiment is performed with the battery cells arranged. It is difficult to use such a jig in a state in which battery cells are three-dimensionally stacked as in the prior art. That is, the manufacturing method of the present embodiment is advantageous in that such a jig can be used.

[0039] (Second Embodiment)

5 and 6 show a second embodiment of the present invention. That is, according to the present invention, as shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 in which battery cells 20 are not connected one by one, a cell assembly in which a plurality (two in this embodiment) of battery cells 20 are connected in parallel. 27 may be connected in series.

[0040] In each cell assembly 27, two battery cells 20 are stacked in the thickness direction of the battery cell, and the electrode tab 25a of one battery cell and the electrode tab 25a of the other battery cell face each other. It has become. That is, in the cell assembly 27, the two battery cells 20 are stacked so that the electrode tabs having the same polarity are drawn from the same side.

[0041] Each electrode tab 25a is bent into a predetermined shape in advance by, for example, a press carriage, so that the tip sides thereof are in close contact with each other. The electrode tab 25b for negative electrode has the same configuration as the electrode tab 25a for positive electrode.

[0042] In one cell assembly 27, a predetermined gap is secured between the main surfaces of the battery cells 20 by a spacer (not shown).

[0043] The cell assemblies 27 are arranged in a line in a plane as in the first embodiment. In this state, the part where the two electrode tabs 25a of one cell assembly 27 overlap each other, A portion where two electrode tabs 25b of the other cell assembly 27 adjacent to each other overlap each other overlaps each other. That is, in the overlapping portions 35C and 35D, the four electrode tabs are in close contact with each other and overlapped. In FIG. 5, two electrode tabs 25a are positioned on the upper side in the overlapping portion 35C, and the electrode tab 25b is positioned on the upper side in the overlapping portion 35D. This is also described in the first embodiment. As described above, the present invention is not limited to such a form.

[0044] The assembled battery of the present embodiment configured as described above can also be manufactured by the same method as in the first embodiment. That is, laser welding is sequentially performed on the overlapping portions 35C and 35D in a state where the cell assemblies 27 are arranged as described above. The four electrode tabs are joined by irradiating the overlapped part with a laser beam. After the cell assemblies 27 are connected to each other in this way, the cell assembly 27 is folded one by one in a form as shown in FIG.

[0045] According to the second embodiment described above, since the welding process is performed in a state where the cell assemblies 27 are arranged in a plane, the workability is improved as in the first embodiment. Ru

[0046] (Third embodiment)

Incidentally, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the assembled battery 52 may be housed and used in a housing box 33 composed of a case 31 and a lid 32. The storage box 33 is characterized in that, for example, a plurality of bus bars 39, which are plate-like members made of metal material, are attached to a part of the peripheral wall surface. More specifically, a plurality of bar grooves 37 are formed on the side surface of the case 31, and one bus bar 39 is attached to each bar groove 37.

The nose bar 39 functions as a voltage extraction terminal corresponding to each battery 20 by being connected to each of the connection portions of the electrode tabs 25a and 25b as will be described later. That is, by connecting a predetermined electrical circuit to each voltage extraction terminal (bus bar 39), the voltage of each battery cell 20 is managed, or even if an abnormality occurs in one battery cell 20, the entire circuit It is possible to install a fuse for each battery cell 20 so that the battery is not damaged. The bus bar 39 is attached to the side of the case as shown in FIG. This increases the rigidity of the entire storage box.

[0048] Thus, the present invention can also be applied to the assembled battery 52 using the bus bar 39. In this case, as shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, with the electrode tabs 25a and 25b partially overlapped, the nose bar 39 is positioned below the overlapped portion. In FIG. 9A, the electrode tabs 25a, 25b and the bus bar 39 are shown in a state where they are separated from each other.

[0049] Next, a laser beam is irradiated from the upper side (the side opposite to the side where the bus bar 39 is disposed) with respect to the overlapping portion of the electrode tabs. Thereby, the two electrode tabs 25a, 25b and the bus bar 39 are joined to each other. Subsequent steps are similar to the first embodiment, whereby the battery cells 20 with bus bars are manufactured by folding the battery cells 20 in a zigzag shape. The battery cells 20 are folded so that the bus bar 39 is outside the electrode tabs 25a and 25b.

[0050] Next, the assembled battery 52 with a bus bar manufactured by the above process is disposed in the case 31, and the final battery is assembled by attaching the bus bar 39 to the bar groove 37 on the side surface of the case.

[0051] Since the bus bar 39 is welded in close contact with the electrode tab as described above, the surface (upper surface in FIG. 9A) of the bus bar 39 that is in close contact with the electrode tab is preferably a flat surface. Yes.

[0052] According to the third embodiment described above, the same advantages as those of the first embodiment are obtained by performing the welding process by arranging the battery cells 20 in a plane. In addition to this effect, when the electrode tabs are welded to each other, the bus bar 39 can be joined together, so that a further advantage can be obtained that the work process can be simplified.

[0053] However, in addition to the nose bar 39, for example, a plate-like fixing member 36 as shown in FIG. In the configuration of FIG. 10, the bus bar 39A attached to the side surface of the case is arranged inside the electrode tabs 25a and 25b, and the electrode tab is sandwiched between the bus bar 39A and the fixing member 36.

[0054] In this case, the bus bar 39A needs to be joined to the overlapping portion of the electrode tabs. What is necessary is just to join the fixing member 36 to the overlapping part of electrode tabs. The fixing member 36 can be joined in the same manner as described above with reference to FIG. 9A.

[0055] When assembling the battery, the fixing member 36 is joined, and the assembled battery folded in zigzag is inserted into the case 31, and then the bus bar 39A is positioned inside the electrode tabs 25a and 25b. Install on the side. Next, both ends of the fixing member 36 are fixed to the bus bar 39A. As a result, the overlapping portion of the electrode tab is sandwiched between the bus bar 39A and the fixing member 36, and the nose bar 39A is brought into conduction with the electrode tab.

[0056] (Fourth embodiment)

In the configuration as described above in which the assembled battery is accommodated in the storage box, the following problems may occur if the electrode tabs 25a and 25b are too short. FIG. 11 shows a state in which the tip side force of the electrode tab of each battery cell is fixedly supported by the bus bar 39A and the fixing member 36 described with reference to FIG. In other words, the bus bar 39A and the fixing member 36 constitute a fixed support portion, and the connection portion between the electrode tabs is supported by the fixed support portion.

[0057] As shown in FIG. 11, in the configuration in which the electrode tabs 25a and 25b force S are short and stretched, if the battery cell 20 moves due to some impact force, the electrode tabs 25a and 25b force There is a risk of being pulled and damaged.

Therefore, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12A, the electrode tabs 25a and 25b are provided with a space. FIG. 12B shows an enlarged view of the electrode tab lead-out portion of FIG. 12A.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 12A, the electrode tab 25a of one battery cell 20 and the electrode tab 25b of the other battery cell 20 extend from each battery cell 20 in a direction away from each other. Yes. The electrode tab lead angle α at this time may be within a range of, for example, 0.5 ° to 6.0 ° with respect to the reference line L in the lead-out direction. If the angle α is smaller than 0.5 °, the effect of giving the electrode tab a sufficient space cannot be obtained. On the other hand, if the angle α exceeds 6.0 °, the electrode tab is too long and requires extra space.

[0060] In addition, when the electrode tab is pulled out at a steep angle, that is, when the electrode tab 25a is bent at a steep angle, for example, the base tab force is also bent, the tab is bent and sealed. There is a risk that the stopper 23 may be subjected to a force to peel off the films. If such a force is applied, the airtightness of the sealing portion 23 may be impaired. This means a decrease in the reliability of the battery cell 20. From this point of view, it is preferable that the lead angle α of the electrode tab be kept relatively small.

[0061] As shown in FIG. 12B, the electrode tab 25a has a base force in the region L up to a predetermined distance.

It is also possible to adopt a configuration that extends straightly and has a bent portion 26a at the tip from there. In the case of this configuration, there is no possibility that an extra force is applied to the sealing portion 23 even if the electrode tab lead angle α exceeds the above range. In this way, the electrode tab may be pulled out straight and bend at a pulling angle α within the above range.

[0062] The specific dimensions of region L are variously changed in consideration of the size of battery cell 20 and the like.

twenty five

For example, about lmm or more. Further, the bending of the electrode tab as described above may be performed, for example, by a pre-press carriage.

[0063] Also, as shown in FIG. 12A, it is preferable to have an R portion 26b bent with a curvature on the tip side of each electrode tab. The radius of curvature of the R portion 26b may be, for example, about 5 times the thickness of the electrode tab. The R portion 26b may be formed by a predetermined process after the tabs are welded together, for example, by embossing using a jig or the like, or through such a prior process. It is naturally formed when the zigzag is folded.

[0064] According to the fourth embodiment described above, the following advantages can be obtained by adopting the configuration as described above. In other words, since the electrode tabs 25a and 25b are relatively long, the electrode tabs are damaged even if the battery cell 20 is moved under some impact force. Hard to occur. Further, since the electrode tabs 25a and 25b are bent in a direction away from each other, a space surrounded by the electrode tabs 25a and 25b is widened. This is advantageous in that the above-described bus bar 39A can be easily placed in this space.

[0065] The invention as described above can also be applied to the parallel-type assembled battery described in the second embodiment. Fig. 13 shows a configuration example in which the fourth embodiment is applied to a parallel type assembled battery. is doing.

[0066] As shown in FIG. 13, the assembled battery 52 is formed by connecting the cell assemblies 27 as in the second embodiment, and the inner electrode tabs are denoted by reference numerals 25a 'and 25b'. The outer electrode tabs are indicated by reference numerals 25a and 25b. Inner electrode tabs 25a 'and 25b' are provided in the same manner as in the configuration of FIG. In this way, the electrode tabs 25a ′ and 25b ′ are pulled out by being directed outward (forced away from each other) and bent at the R portion 26b. The space between 25b 'is wide. Therefore, as described above, there is an advantage that the nose bar 39A can be easily placed in this space. Furthermore, such a configuration can be performed even if all electrode tabs are the same length. Therefore, the battery cells 20 having the same configuration can be used, and it is not necessary to distinguish the battery cells in the manufacturing process. Also, it is preferable that the outer electrode tabs 25a and 25b be pulled out with a gentle extraction angle, as with the inner electrode tabs.

[0067] (Fifth embodiment)

In the embodiment described above, the force in which the lengths of the electrode tabs of the respective battery cells are the same. Conversely, the lengths of the electrode tabs can be positively made irregular. This will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[0068] FIG. 14 shows an example in which a cell assembly 127 is configured by superposing three battery cells 120 having electrode tabs of the same length! / The electrode tab length! For the same reason, for example, the innermost (left side) electrode tab 125 is pulled out of the sealing portion 123 toward the outside (right side) at a relatively steep angle. In such a configuration, the electrode tab member is wasted and the electrode tab is pulled out at a relatively steep angle, so that an extra force may be applied to the sealing portion 123. As shown in FIG. 12B, if the bent portion 26a is provided in advance, it is different force. Otherwise, pulling out the electrode tab at a steep angle as described above means that the sealing portion 123 This means that a force is applied to peel the films apart. Therefore, from this point of view, it is preferable that the electrode tab is pulled out from the sealing portion 123 at a relatively gentle angle.

Therefore, as shown in FIG. 15, FIG. 16A, and FIG. 16B, the assembled battery 53 of the present embodiment is configured such that the lengths of the electrode tabs are not uniform. The cell in the horizontal center shown in Figure 16B Referring to assembly 127, cell assembly 127 is a stack of three battery cells 120A, 120B, and 120C. Battery cell 120A has the longest positive electrode tab 125a-3 and the shortest negative electrode. Electrode tab 125b-l. In the battery cell 120C, the shortest positive electrode tab 125a-l and the longest negative electrode tab 125b-3 are arranged opposite to the battery cell 120A. The battery cell 120B is an intermediate battery, and includes a positive electrode tab 125a-2 and a negative electrode tab 125b-2 having an intermediate length.

[0070] The shortest electrode tabs 125a-l and 125b-l have the same length as the electrode tabs 25a and 25b in FIG. 12A (see FIG. 15). As a result, as shown in FIG. 15, the electrode tabs 125a-l and 125b-l are drawn away from each other, and the space between the electrode tabs is widened.

In order to make the lengths of the electrode tabs uneven in this way, for example, electrode tabs having different lengths may be provided in the process of manufacturing the battery cell. Alternatively, it is possible to cut the electrode tabs in the process after manufacturing the battery cells having the same configuration to obtain the three battery senoles 120A to 120C having different configurations.

[0072] The assembled battery 53 having the above-described configuration is manufactured as follows. First, the cell assemblies 127 are arranged in a plane so as to have a form as shown in FIG. 16B. In the overlapping portion 135A, the shortest electrode tabs 125a-l and 125b-l are partially overlapped with each other while being in a straight state. With respect to the remaining four electrode tabs, the respective leading ends are overlapped with the overlapping portions of the electrode tabs 125a-l and 125b-l.

[0073] The overlapping portion 135B is basically configured in the same manner as the above-described overlapping portion 135A !, but the bow I protruding position of each electrode tab is vertically inverted. Therefore, the position of the overlapping portion 135B is opposite to the overlapping portion 135A.

Next, the cell assemblies 127 are connected to each other by welding the overlapping portions 135A and 135B in a state where the cell assemblies 127 are arranged in a plane as described above. Next, the assembled battery 53 according to the present embodiment is obtained by sequentially folding the cell assembly 127 in a zigzag shape.

[0075] According to the fifth embodiment described above, the same advantages as those of the second embodiment can be obtained by arranging the cell assemblies 127 in a plane and performing the welding process. The shortest power Since the polar tabs 125a-l and 125b-l are drawn away from each other as in the above embodiment, the same advantages as in the fourth embodiment can be obtained in this embodiment. Furthermore, the length of each electrode tab is set to an appropriate length, and as a result, the angle of the electrode tab drawn out from the sealing portion 123 of each battery cell becomes relatively gentle. It is also possible to prevent extra force from being applied to part 123.

[0076] As described above, the power described for several embodiments of the present invention. The present invention may be used by appropriately combining the technical ideas described in the above embodiments.

In each embodiment, the battery cell 20 whose outer package is the outer film 24 is described as an example. However, as the battery cell (electric device), a sheet-like electrode tab is drawn out. For example, the battery element 22 (electric device element) may be hermetically sealed using a can instead of the exterior film. Although not described in detail in the above description, the battery element 22 used in the battery cell is a lithium ion secondary battery, specifically, a positive electrode such as lithium manganese oxide or lithium cobalt oxide. A positive electrode plate coated with active material on both sides such as aluminum foil and a negative electrode plate coated with lithium-doped / de-doped carbon material on both sides such as copper foil are opposed to each other with a separator therebetween. It may be impregnated with an electrolytic solution containing lithium salt. However, in addition to lithium ion secondary batteries, the battery elements may be battery elements of other types of chemical batteries such as nickel metal hydride batteries, nickel cadmium batteries, lithium metal primary batteries or secondary batteries, and lithium polymer batteries. Good. Further, the battery element is not limited to a laminated type, and a positive electrode side active electrode and a negative electrode side active electrode are stacked with a separator interposed between them, wound, and then compressed into a flat shape to compress the positive electrode side active electrode. It may be a wound type having a structure in which electrodes and negative electrode side active electrodes are alternately laminated. Further, as the electric device element, a device that stores and outputs electric energy such as a capacitor element such as an electric double layer capacitor or an electrolytic capacitor may be used.

Claims

The scope of the claims

[1] preparing a plurality of electrical devices in which sheet-like electrode tabs are drawn in opposite directions from two opposite sides;

Arranging the plurality of electrical devices in a row such that the electrode tabs partially overlap each other in a relationship between the electrical devices adjacent to each other;

A step of connecting the electrode tabs in an overlapping portion of the electrode tabs in a state where the plurality of electric devices are arranged;

After connecting the electrode tabs, the step of stacking the plurality of electrical devices in a zigzag manner,

A method for manufacturing an electrical device assembly.

[2] The step of arranging the electrical devices in a line includes arranging the plurality of electrical devices such that electrode tabs of the electrical devices adjacent to each other are in a straight state! Item 2. A method for producing an electrical device assembly according to Item 1.

[3] The electrical device assembly according to claim 1, wherein the step of connecting the electrode tabs includes connecting a plate-like member made of a metal material to the overlapping portion of the electrode tabs. Production method.

[4] The step of connecting the electrode tabs includes disposing the plate member on one surface of the overlapping portion of the electrode tabs, and a surface opposite to the side on which the plate member is disposed. 4. The method for producing an electrical device assembly according to claim 3, further comprising: irradiating a laser beam onto an overlapping portion between the electrode tabs.

[5] The method for producing an electrical device assembly according to claim 1, wherein the step of connecting the electrode tabs includes connecting the electrode tabs by laser welding or ultrasonic welding.

[6] preparing a plurality of electrical devices in which sheet-like electrode tabs are drawn in opposite directions from two opposite sides;

Two or more electrical devices are stacked, and a plurality of electrical devices are formed by partially overlapping each of the electrode tabs bowed from the electrical device so that the stacked electrical devices are connected in parallel. Configuring the assembly; and Arranging the plurality of electrical device assemblies in a row so that the portions where the electrode tabs overlap each other in a relationship between the electrical device assemblies adjacent to each other; and

A step of connecting the electrode tabs to each other at an overlapping portion of the electrode tabs in a state where the electric device assemblies are arranged;

After the electrode tabs are connected to each other, the step of stacking the plurality of electrical device assemblies in a zigzag manner,

A method for manufacturing an electrical device assembly.

[7] The electrical device assembly according to claim 6, wherein the step of connecting the electrode tabs includes connecting a plate-like member made of a metal material to the overlapping portion of the electrode tabs. Production method.

[8] The step of connecting the electrode tabs includes disposing the plate member on one surface of the overlapping portion of the electrode tabs, and a surface opposite to the side on which the plate member is disposed. The method of manufacturing an electrical device assembly according to claim 7, further comprising: irradiating a laser beam onto an overlapping portion of the electrode tabs.

[9] The method for producing an electrical device assembly according to [6], wherein the step of connecting the electrode tabs includes connecting the electrode tabs by laser welding or ultrasonic welding.

[10] having a plurality of electrical devices having sheet-like electrode tabs drawn in opposite directions from two opposite sides;

The plurality of electrical devices are connected in series by connecting the electrode tabs, and are folded zigzag by bending the electrode tabs,

The connection part between the electrode tabs is supported by a fixed support part,

In the relationship between the two electric devices adjacent to each other, the electrode tab of one of the electric devices and the electrode tab of the other electric device are pulled out from the electric devices in a direction away from each other. Electrical device assembly.

[11] The extraction angle of the electrode tabs drawn out by force in directions away from each other α force is within a range of 0.5 ° to 6.0 ° with respect to a reference line in the drawing direction. Power of Qi device aggregate.

[12] In at least one of the plurality of electric devices, the electrode tab force drawn from the electric device, the root force, and the bent portion are drawn out along the reference line in the pulling direction, and the bent portion is The electrical device assembly according to claim 10, wherein the force is also bent.

[13] The fixed support portion includes a bus bar disposed in a region surrounded by the two electrode tabs pulled out in a direction away from each other, and an electrode tab between the bus bar and the opposite side of the bus bar. 11. The electric device assembly according to claim 10, further comprising: a plate-like member that is disposed and cooperates with the bus bar to sandwich the connection portion.

14. The electric device assembly according to claim 13, wherein the plate-like member is joined to an overlapping portion between the electrode tabs.

[15] A plurality of electrical devices having sheet-like electrode tabs drawn in opposite directions from two opposite sides have a plurality of electrical device assemblies stacked so as to be connected in parallel.

The plurality of electrical device assemblies are directly connected by connecting the electrode tabs, and are zigzag folded by bending the electrode tabs. A connecting portion between the electrode tabs connected for connection is supported by a fixing support portion,

In the relationship between one electrical device of one of the electrical device assemblies and one electrical device of the other electrical device assembly that are adjacent to each other, an electrode tab of the one electrical device and And an electrode tab of the other electric device and an electric device assembly that is pulled out from each electric device in a direction away from each other.

[16] The drawing angle of the electrode tabs drawn out by force in directions away from each other [alpha] force is within a range of 0.5 [deg.] To 6.0 [deg.] With respect to a reference line in the drawing direction. A collection of electrical devices.

[17] In at least one of the plurality of electric devices, the electrode tab force drawn from the electric device, the root force, and the bent portion are laid along the reference line in the drawing direction. The electric device assembly according to claim 15, wherein the electric device assembly is pulled out immediately and the force is also bent at the bent portion.

[18] The fixed support portion includes a bus bar arranged in a region surrounded by the two electrode tabs pulled out in a direction away from each other, and the electrode tab between the bus bar and the opposite side of the bus bar. 16. The electric device assembly according to claim 15, further comprising: a plate-like member that is disposed and cooperates with the bus bar to sandwich the connection portion.

[19] The electric device assembly according to [18], wherein the plate-like member is joined to an overlapping portion of the electrode tabs.