Abstract: An electric power source device is used in a vehicle equipped with a generator and a battery. The device includes a current detector for detecting a first current flowing in the battery, a DC-DC converter, a capacitor connected to the generator via the DC-DC converter, and a controller. The controller determines the state of charge of the battery based on a first input current detected by the current detector, and detects the running condition of the vehicle. When the vehicle decelerates, the controller controls, based on the determined state of charge of the battery, a second input current input to the capacitor via the DC-DC converter. Thereby, a regenerative electric power generated by the generator is used during the deceleration of the vehicle according to the SOC, thus utilizing the energy that is not conventionally.

Abstract: A sealed lead acid storage battery includes a monoblock container, a cover, plural assembly elements, each assembly element comprising a plurality of positive and negative electrode plates that are stacked via separators in a predetermined direction, a positive and negative electrode strap, and a positive and negative electrode terminal. The positive and negative electrode terminals protrude above the cover. The container further comprises ribs formed inside a bottom surface thereof for enabling the electrode plates to rest on the ribs. Each positive electrode plate has a pair of feet that are formed on a lower end thereof in a substantially symmetrical arrangement and further comprises a lug connected to the positive electrode strap that is disposed at a position shifting either to the left or to the right. One of the feet correspond to the position having the lug not resting on any rib, while the other foot rests on a rib.