Apparatus and method for injecting electrolyte into battery cell

Abstract

According to the present disclosure, an apparatus and method for injecting an electrolyte into a battery cell may be provided, comprising: one or more trays that accommodate a case in which an electrode assembly is inserted therein; one or more first hoppers that inject an electrolyte into the case; one or more level sensors that measure the level of the electrolyte injected into the case; and a controller that receives the level of the electrolyte from the level sensors and measures the degree of impregnation by comparing the level of the electrolyte with a reference level.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an apparatus and method for injecting an electrolyte into a battery cell. Background Technology

[0002] Rechargeable batteries are batteries capable of being charged and discharged. Batteries are used in various devices, such as electric vehicles, energy storage systems, and portable electronic devices. Batteries are manufactured in cell units; a single battery cell can be used in portable electronic devices, or multiple battery cells can be assembled into a module or pack for use in electric vehicles or energy storage systems. A battery has a structure in which an electrode assembly, consisting of a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator, is submerged in an electrolyte inside a case. The electrolyte provides a pathway for ion movement between the negative and positive electrodes. The electrolyte may contain lithium salts and organic solvents. Prior art literature

[0003] (Patent Document 0001) KR 10-2022-2483406 B1 The problem to be solved

[0004] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an apparatus and method for injecting an electrolyte into a battery cell and measuring the liquid level of the electrolyte to verify the degree of impregnation are provided.

[0005] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an apparatus and method for injecting an electrolyte into a battery cell and applying ultrasonic vibration according to the liquid level of the electrolyte to improve the degree of impregnation are provided.

[0006] An apparatus and method for injecting an electrolyte into a battery cell according to one aspect of the present disclosure can be applied to the manufacturing process of batteries widely used in green technology fields such as electric vehicles, battery charging stations, and other areas utilizing batteries, such as solar power generation and wind power generation.

[0007] An apparatus and method for injecting an electrolyte into a battery cell according to one aspect of the present disclosure can be applied to the manufacturing process of batteries used in eco-friendly electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, etc., to prevent climate change by suppressing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. means of solving the problem

[0008] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an apparatus for injecting an electrolyte into a battery cell may include one or more trays that accommodate a case in which an electrode assembly is inserted therein, one or more first hoppers that inject an electrolyte into the case, one or more level sensors that measure the level of the electrolyte injected into the case, and a controller that receives the level of the electrolyte from the level sensors and measures the degree of impregnation by comparing the level of the electrolyte with a reference level.

[0009] According to one embodiment, the device for injecting electrolyte into a battery cell may further include one or more weight sensors connected to a position in the tray where the case is received to measure the weight of the case.

[0010] According to one embodiment, the controller measures the weight of the electrolyte injected into the case using the weight received from the weight sensor, and can additionally inject the electrolyte if the amount of electrolyte injected into the case is less than a reference.

[0011] According to one embodiment, a device for injecting electrolyte into a battery cell may further include a sensor moving part that moves the liquid level sensor to an injection port formed in the case.

[0012] According to one embodiment, the controller controls the sensor moving part so that the level sensor is separated from the inlet while the first hopper injects the electrolyte through the inlet, and controls the sensor moving part so that the level sensor is moved to the inlet after the first hopper injects the electrolyte.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the device for injecting an electrolyte into a battery cell may further include a vibration applying part that is connected to the tray and contacts the side of the case, and applies ultrasonic vibration to the case.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the controller can control the vibration applying unit to apply ultrasonic vibration to the case when the liquid level of the electrolyte injected into the case exceeds the reference liquid level.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the controller can determine whether the level of the electrolyte injected into the case exceeds the reference level and corresponds to one of a plurality of preset levels, and control the vibration application unit to apply vibration to the case according to the corresponding level.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the vibration applying unit may include a wall connected to the tray and extending to the center of the case, and a plurality of vibrators connected to the wall so as to face the case.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the controller may control the vibration applying unit to apply a first level vibration when the degree to which the liquid level of the electrolyte injected into the case exceeds the reference liquid level corresponds to a first level, control the vibration applying unit to apply a second level vibration when the degree to which the liquid level of the electrolyte injected into the case exceeds the reference liquid level corresponds to a second level greater than the first level, and control the vibration applying unit to apply a third level vibration when the degree to which the liquid level of the electrolyte injected into the case exceeds the reference liquid level corresponds to a third level greater than the second level.

[0018] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a method for injecting an electrolyte into a battery cell may include the steps of: a first hopper injecting an electrolyte into a case in which an electrode assembly is housed, said case being housed in a tray; a level sensor measuring the level of the electrolyte injected into the case; and a controller receiving the level of the electrolyte from the level sensor and measuring the degree of impregnation by comparing the level of the electrolyte with a reference level.

[0019] According to one embodiment, a method for injecting an electrolyte into a battery cell may further include the steps of: measuring the weight of the case by a weight sensor connected to a position where the case is received in the tray before the electrolyte is injected into the case; measuring the weight of the case into which the electrolyte is injected by the weight sensor after the electrolyte is injected into the case; calculating the weight of the electrolyte injected into the case by subtracting the weight of the case before the electrolyte is injected from the weight of the case into which the electrolyte is injected received by the weight sensor by the controller; comparing the weight of the electrolyte injected into the case with a reference weight by the controller; and, if the weight of the electrolyte is less than the reference weight, the controller controlling the first hopper to additionally inject an amount of electrolyte equal to the difference between the weight of the electrolyte and the reference weight.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the controller may perform the step of further injecting the electrolyte and then the step of measuring the weight of the case into which the electrolyte has been injected, and if the weight of the electrolyte is greater than or equal to a reference weight, the controller may perform the step of measuring the liquid level of the electrolyte.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the step of injecting the electrolyte may be performed by the controller controlling a sensor moving part that moves the liquid level sensor to an injection port formed in the case, so that the liquid level sensor is spaced apart from the injection port while the first hopper injects the electrolyte through the injection port.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the step of measuring the liquid level of the electrolyte may be performed while the controller controls the sensor moving unit to move the liquid level sensor to the inlet.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the step of measuring the degree of impregnation may include the step of the controller comparing the level of the electrolyte injected into the case with a reference level, and the step of the controller determining the level of the electrolyte to one of a plurality of preset levels.

[0024] According to one embodiment, a method for injecting an electrolyte into a battery cell may further include the step of controlling a vibration applying unit, which is connected to the tray and contacts the side of the case, and which applies ultrasonic vibration to the case, to apply vibration according to the level to the case.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the step of applying the vibration may be such that the controller controls the vibration applying unit to apply a first level vibration when the degree to which the liquid level of the electrolyte injected into the case exceeds the reference liquid level corresponds to a first level, controls the vibration applying unit to apply a second level vibration when the degree to which the liquid level of the electrolyte injected into the case exceeds the reference liquid level corresponds to a second level greater than the first level, and controls the vibration applying unit to apply a third level vibration when the degree to which the liquid level of the electrolyte injected into the case exceeds the reference liquid level corresponds to a third level greater than the second level.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the plurality of vibrators may include a plurality of first vibrators that apply vibrations of a first range of frequencies, and a plurality of second vibrators that apply vibrations of a second range of frequencies higher than the first range, and two first vibration rows arranged such that the plurality of first vibrators are spaced apart at a certain distance may be located in the middle-lower and middle-upper parts of the wall, respectively, and three second vibration rows arranged such that the plurality of first vibrators are spaced apart at a certain distance may be located in the lower, middle, and upper parts of the wall, respectively.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the first level vibration may be a vibration by the two first vibration trains applied to the case for a first time.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the second level vibration may be such that vibration by a second vibration train located at the top and center of the wall is applied to the case for a second time, and subsequently vibration by the two first vibration trains is applied to the case for a third time.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the third level vibration may be such that vibrations caused by a second vibration row located at the top of the wall and the two first vibration rows are applied to the case for a fourth time, subsequently vibrations caused by a second vibration row located at the center and bottom of the wall are applied to the case for a fifth time, and vibrations caused by the two first vibration rows are applied to the case for a sixth time.

[0030] The features and advantages of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description based on the accompanying drawings.

[0031] Prior to this, terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be interpreted in their ordinary and dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted in a meaning and concept consistent with the technical spirit of this disclosure, based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concept of the terms to best describe his invention. Effects of the invention

[0032] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the degree to which an electrode assembly is impregnated with an electrolyte can be improved.

[0033] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the degree of impregnation of the electrode assembly and the electrolyte can be detected without disassembling the battery cell.

[0034] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a change in the liquid level of the electrolyte can be measured during the manufacturing process of a battery cell, and this can be used as a criterion for determining a change in the process according to the battery cell model. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0035] FIG. 1 is a flowchart showing the overall process of injecting an electrolyte into a battery cell according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a device for injecting an electrolyte into a battery cell according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the state in which a water level sensor according to one embodiment measures the water level of an electrolyte injected into a case. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating that a controller according to one embodiment determines the liquid level of an electrolyte to one of a plurality of levels. FIG. 5 is a drawing showing a vibration application unit connected to a tray according to one embodiment. FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a plurality of vibrators of a vibration application unit according to one embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing each step of a method for injecting an electrolyte into a battery cell according to one embodiment. Figure 8 is a drawing showing the state in which a case is accommodated in a tray. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the state in which a predetermined amount of electrolyte is transferred from the second hopper to the first hopper. Figure 10 is a drawing showing the state in which the tray moves upward and the first hopper and the injection port of the case are connected. Figure 11 is a drawing showing the state in which the electrolyte is injected from the first hopper into the case. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing the state in which the tray moves downward and the liquid level sensor measures the liquid level of the electrolyte injected into the case. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the process of checking the amount of electrolyte injected using a weight sensor in a method of injecting electrolyte into a battery cell according to one embodiment. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a process of improving the degree of impregnation using a vibration application unit in a method of injecting an electrolyte into a battery cell according to one embodiment. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0036] Hereinafter, the present disclosure will be described in detail (with reference to the attached drawings). However, this is merely illustrative and the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described illustratively.

[0037] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0038] FIG. 1 is a flowchart showing the entire process of injecting an electrolyte (4) into a battery cell (1).

[0039] According to one embodiment, the process of injecting an electrolyte (4) in the process of manufacturing a battery cell (1) may include a first electrolyte injection step (S1), a thermal vacuum pre-charge step (S2), and a second electrolyte injection step (S3). The first electrolyte injection step (S1) is a step of injecting a predetermined amount of electrolyte (4) into a case (2) in which an electrode assembly (3) is housed. The amount of electrolyte (4) injected in the first electrolyte injection step (S1) may be a part of the electrolyte (4) injected into the finished battery cell (1). The thermal vacuum pre-charge (HVPC) step (S2) is a step of creating a high temperature and vacuum environment while the electrode assembly (3) is submerged in the electrolyte (4) and performing charging. When the thermal vacuum pre-charge step (S2) is performed, the electrolyte (4) and the positive electrode (3a) and negative electrode (3c) react to form a Solid Electrolyte Interphase (SEI). The second electrolyte injection step (S3) involves injecting the remainder of a predetermined amount of electrolyte before sealing the battery cell (1). After performing the second electrolyte injection step (S3), the injection port (2a) of the case (2) can be sealed.

[0040] A device (1) for injecting an electrolyte into a battery cell according to one embodiment can be used in a first electrolyte injection step (S1) or a second electrolyte injection step (S3).

[0041] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a device (1) for injecting an electrolyte into a battery cell according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a state in which a liquid level sensor according to one embodiment measures the liquid level of the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2).

[0042] A device (1) for injecting an electrolyte into a battery cell according to one embodiment may include one or more trays (110) that accommodate a case (2) in which an electrode assembly (3) is inserted, one or more first hoppers (120) that inject an electrolyte (4) into the case (2), one or more level sensors (130) that measure the level of the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2), and a controller (180) that receives the level of the electrolyte (4) from the level sensors (130) and measures the degree of impregnation by comparing the level of the electrolyte (4) with a reference level. The device (1) for injecting an electrolyte into a battery cell may further include a chamber (140) that accommodates the tray (110) that accommodates the case (2) and forms a vacuum environment, a second hopper (150) that stores the electrolyte (4), and a valve (151) that supplies a predetermined amount of the electrolyte (4) stored in the second hopper (150) to the first hopper (120).

[0043] A device (1) for injecting electrolyte into a battery cell can inject electrolyte (4) into a case (2) in which an electrode assembly (3) is inserted. The case (2) in which the electrode assembly (3) is inserted can be accommodated in a tray (110). A device (1) for injecting electrolyte into a battery cell can inject electrolyte (4) into a plurality of cases (2) simultaneously.

[0044] The tray (110) may include a receiving portion (111) that accommodates the case (2). The receiving portion (111) may be formed in the shape of a concave groove in the tray (110). The size or shape of the receiving portion (111) may be determined to correspond to the case (2). Multiple trays (110) may be arranged within the chamber (140). The tray (110) may be moved up and down while accommodating the case (2). The tray (110) may be moved up and down using a motor, gear, belt, or other physical device.

[0045] The first hopper (120) can temporarily store a fixed amount of electrolyte (4) and inject the electrolyte (4) into the case (2). The first hopper (120) can receive a portion of the electrolyte (4) stored in the second hopper (150) through the valve (151). The first hopper (120) can be positioned across the inside and outside of the chamber (140). The electrolyte (4) outlet of the first hopper (120) can be located inside the chamber (140), and the electrolyte (4) inlet of the first hopper (120) can be located outside the chamber (140). Multiple first hoppers (120) can be arranged in the chamber (140) to correspond to the number of trays (110).

[0046] A case (2) according to one embodiment may include a case (2) of a rectangular battery cell and a case (2) of a cylindrical battery cell. As shown in the enlarged cross-sectional view along A-A' of FIG. 3, an electrode assembly (3) in which a positive electrode (3a), a separator (3b), and a negative electrode (3c) are stacked may be housed inside the case (2). The electrode assembly (3) is also referred to as a jelly roll.

[0047] An injection port (2a) may be formed on the upper surface of the case (2). The injection port (2a) is a hole formed in the case (2) to inject an electrolyte (4) while the electrode assembly (3) is housed inside the case (2). The injection port (2a) may be sized to allow the outlet (122) of the first hopper (120) to be inserted.

[0048] The level sensor (130) can measure the level of the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2). The level sensor (130) may include a contact sensor or a non-contact sensor. The level sensor (130) may include an ultrasonic sensor, a laser sensor, a radio wave sensor, a rope sensor, etc. The level sensor (130) can provide the level of the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2) to the controller (180). Multiple level sensors (130) may be arranged within the chamber (140) to correspond to the number of trays (110).

[0049] The device (1) for injecting electrolyte into a battery cell may further include a sensor moving part (131) for moving a level sensor (130) to an injection port (2a) formed in a case (2). The controller (180) may control the sensor moving part (131) so that the level sensor (130) is separated from the injection port (2a) while the first hopper (120) injects the electrolyte (4) through the injection port (2a), and may control the sensor moving part (131) so that the level sensor (130) is moved to the injection port (2a) after the first hopper (120) injects the electrolyte (4).

[0050] The water level sensor (130) can be moved by the sensor moving part (131). The sensor moving part (131) can move the position of the water level sensor (130) by means of a motor, gear, belt, link, or other device. The sensor moving part (131) can move the water level sensor (130) toward the electrolyte (4) injection port (2a) of the case (2). The sensor moving part (131) can move the water level sensor (130) to a position spaced apart from the electrolyte (4) injection port (2a) of the case (2).

[0051] The liquid level sensor (130) can measure the liquid level of the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2) through the injection port (2a) of the case (2). Since the positions of the tray (110), the case (2), and the liquid level sensor (130) are fixed, the liquid level of the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2) can be measured by measuring the distance between the liquid level sensor (130) and the electrolyte (4).

[0052] Since the liquid level sensor (130) measures the liquid level of the electrolyte (4) through the injection port (2a) of the case (2), when the electrolyte (4) is injected into the case (2), the liquid level sensor (130) needs to be spaced apart from the injection port (2a) of the case (2). The controller (180) can position the first hopper (120) or the liquid level sensor (130) at the injection port (2a) of the case (2) by moving the tray (110) up and down and controlling the sensor moving part (131) to move the liquid level sensor (130) toward or away from the injection port (2a) of the case (2).

[0053] The controller (180) receives the liquid level of the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2) from the liquid level sensor (130) and can measure the degree of impregnation based on the liquid level of the electrolyte (4). The degree of impregnation may refer to the degree to which the electrolyte (4) permeates the electrode assembly (3). If the electrolyte (4) is sufficiently impregnated into the positive electrode (3a) or negative electrode (3c) of the electrode assembly (3), a battery with good performance can be manufactured, and if the degree of impregnation of the electrolyte (4) is poor, the performance of the battery may be lower. When a predetermined amount of electrolyte (4) is injected into the case (2), if the degree of impregnation is good, the electrolyte (4) permeates a large amount into the positive electrode (3a) or negative electrode (3c), so the liquid level of the electrolyte (4) may be low. If the degree of impregnation is not good, the amount of electrolyte (4) that has seeped into the anode (3a) or cathode (3c) is small, so the level of the electrolyte (4) may be high. The controller (180) can compare the level of the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2) received from the level sensor (130) with the set reference level, and if the level of the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2) is high, it can determine that the degree of impregnation is poor.

[0054] The controller (180) may include a processor capable of executing program code and a storage unit connected to the processor to transmit and receive data. The processor may include a CPU, GPU, ASIC, or other data processing device. The storage unit may store program code written to perform a method of injecting electrolyte (4) into a battery cell (1) according to one embodiment, a reference water level, the content of vibration applied according to the level, and other data or commands. The processor may perform a method of injecting electrolyte (4) into the battery cell (1) by reading and executing the program code from the storage unit.

[0055] The controller (180) may further include an input / output interface connected to a processor for data transmission and reception, or a communication interface connected to a processor for data transmission and reception. The input / output interface may include an input device and an output device. The input device may include a keyboard, mouse, touchpad, touchscreen, button, switch, etc., used by a user to input data or commands to the controller (180). The output device may include a display, speaker, lamp, printer, etc., for providing data or information to the user. The communication interface may include a communication element, circuit, antenna, etc., for transmitting and receiving data to and from a manufacturing process management system or other computer device that manages the battery cell (1) manufacturing process. The communication interface may use LAN, WAN, Ethernet, IPv4, IPv6, 5G, 6G, LTE, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, and various other communication methods.

[0056] The second hopper (150) may be located outside the chamber (140). Multiple second hoppers (150) may be arranged to correspond to the number of trays (110). The second hopper (150) may store electrolyte (4). The electrolyte (4) stored in the second hopper (150) may be supplied to the first hopper (120) by a valve (151). The valve (151) may be opened or closed according to a control signal from the controller (180). The valve (151) may include a metering valve (151) that outputs a predetermined amount.

[0057] The chamber (140) includes a plurality of trays (110), a water level sensor (130), and a sensor moving part (131) inside, and may include a first hopper (120) extending from the inside and outside of the chamber (140). A vacuum line (141) may be connected to one side of the chamber (140). The vacuum line (141) may be connected to a vacuum generator. The vacuum generator may operate based on the control of a controller (180) to form a vacuum inside the chamber (140).

[0058] The controller (180) can control the valve (151) to move a predetermined amount of electrolyte (4) from the second hopper (150) to the first hopper (120) in order to inject the electrolyte (4) into the case (2). The controller (180) can control the sensor moving part (131) to move the water level sensor (130) away from the inlet (2a) of the case (2). The controller (180) can move the tray (110) upward so that the outlet (122) of the first hopper (120) is inserted into the inlet (2a) of the case (2). The controller (180) can control the vacuum generator to form a vacuum inside the chamber (140). When a vacuum is formed inside the chamber (140), the electrolyte (4) stored in the first hopper (120) can be injected into the case (2). The vacuum formed inside the chamber (140) can facilitate the electrolyte (4) from seeping into the electrode assembly (3). The controller (180) can move the tray (110) downward when all the electrolyte (4) stored in the first hopper (120) is injected into the case (2). The controller (180) can control the sensor moving part (131) to move the liquid level sensor (130) to the injection port (2a) of the case (2). The liquid level sensor (130) can measure the liquid level of the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2) and provide it to the controller (180). The controller (180) can measure the degree of impregnation based on the liquid level of the electrolyte (4) received from the liquid level sensor (130).

[0059] The device (1) for injecting electrolyte into the battery cell may further include one or more weight sensors (160) connected to a position in the tray (110) where the case (2) is received to measure the weight of the case (2). The controller (180) measures the weight of the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2) using the weight received from the weight sensor (160), and can inject additional electrolyte (4) if the amount of electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2) is less than a reference.

[0060] The weight sensor (160) may include a weight measuring sensor such as a load cell. The weight sensor (160) may be located in the receiving portion (111) of the tray (110). The weight sensor (160) may measure the weight of the case (2) and provide it to the controller (180). The weight sensor (160) may measure the weight of the case (2) before injecting the electrolyte (4) into the case (2). The weight sensor (160) may measure the weight of the case (2) after injecting the electrolyte (4) into the case (2).

[0061] The controller (180) can calculate the weight of the electrolyte (4) by subtracting the weight of the case (2) before the electrolyte (4) was injected from the weight of the case (2) into which the electrolyte (4) was injected. Since the amount of electrolyte (4) provided by the second hopper (150) to the first hopper (120) is controlled by the valve (151), it may be difficult to precisely control the predetermined amount. Therefore, the controller (180) can determine whether the electrolyte (4) has been injected in a predetermined amount based on the weight of the electrolyte (4) in order to accurately measure the amount of electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2). The controller (180) can control the valve (151) and the first hopper (120) to inject additional electrolyte (4) if the amount of electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2) is less than the reference amount. The controller (180) can additionally inject the electrolyte (4) into the case (2), then measure the weight of the case (2) with the weight sensor (160), and calculate the weight of the electrolyte (4). The controller (180) can measure the level of the electrolyte (4) when the weight of the electrolyte (4) reaches a predetermined standard.

[0062] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating that a controller (180) according to one embodiment determines the level of the electrolyte (4) to one of a plurality of levels.

[0063] The controller (180) can determine whether the level of the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2) exceeds the reference level and corresponds to one of a plurality of preset levels. The controller (180) can determine how much the level of the electrolyte (4) exceeds the reference level and classify the degree of exceedance into a plurality of levels. For example, there may be three levels. There may be two or four or more levels. The controller (180) can compare the level of the electrolyte (4) with the reference level and compare the level of the electrolyte (4) with a boundary level that distinguishes the levels.

[0064] The controller (180) can determine the first level if the level of liquid injected into the case (2) exceeds the reference level and is below the first level boundary level. The controller (180) can determine the second level if the level of liquid injected into the case (2) exceeds the first level boundary level and is below the second level boundary level. The controller (180) can determine the third level if the level of liquid injected into the case (2) exceeds the second level boundary level. In this way, the controller (180) can determine the level of the liquid of the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2).

[0065] If it corresponds to the first level, the controller (180) may determine that the degree of impregnation is good. If it corresponds to the second level, the controller (180) may determine that the degree of impregnation is worse than the first level. If it corresponds to the third level, the controller (180) may determine that the degree of impregnation is worse than the second level. The controller (180) may display the degree of impregnation as a level to the user, or convert the degree of impregnation corresponding to the level into a set numerical value and display it. If the degree of impregnation is poor, the user may decide to perform additional processes to improve the degree of impregnation. The user may also improve the electrolyte (4) injection process using the electrolyte (4) level data.

[0066] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing a vibration application unit (170) connected to a tray (110) according to one embodiment. FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a plurality of vibrators (172) of the vibration application unit (170) according to one embodiment.

[0067] A device (1) for injecting electrolyte into a battery cell may further include a vibration applying unit (170) that is connected to a tray (110) and contacts the side of a case (2) and applies ultrasonic vibration to the case (2). A controller (180) may control the vibration applying unit (170) to apply ultrasonic vibration to the case (2) when the liquid level of the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2) exceeds a reference liquid level.

[0068] The vibration application unit (170) can apply vibration to the case (2). The vibration application unit (170) can output vibration according to the control of the controller (180). The vibration application unit (170) can be connected to the tray (110). The vibration application unit (170) is formed one on each side of the receiving portion (111) of the tray (110) and can come into contact with both sides of the case (2). The vibration application unit (170) can apply ultrasonic vibration to the case (2).

[0069] The vibration application unit (170) may include a wall (171) connected to the tray (110) and extending to the center of the case (2), and a plurality of vibrators (172) connected to the wall (171) so as to face the case (2).

[0070] The bottom of the wall (171) can be connected to the tray (110). The top of the wall (171) can be located in the center of the case (2). The height of the wall (171) can be half or slightly greater than half the height of the case (2). The height of the wall (171) may be similar to the height of the case (2). If the height of the wall (171) is low, vibration can be applied to the lower part of the case (2), and if the height of the wall (171) is high, vibration can also be applied to the center and top of the case (2). The height of the wall (171) can be determined according to the area to which vibration is applied to the case (2).

[0071] A vibrator (172) can be connected to a wall (171) toward a case (2). A plurality of vibrators (172) can be connected to the wall (171). A plurality of vibrators (172) can apply vibration to the case (2) based on the control of a controller (180). When the vibrator (172) applies vibration to the case (2), vibration can be transmitted to the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2). When vibration is applied to the electrolyte (4), the electrolyte (4) can penetrate better into the electrode assembly (3). Recently, as part of a method to improve power density, there has been a tendency to increase the loading amount of active material on the electrode, increase the compression ratio of the active material of the electrode, and increase the density of the electrode assembly (3). While this trend can improve power density, it may act in a direction that lowers the impregnation of the electrolyte (4). According to one embodiment, by providing vibration to the case (2), the vibrator (172) can at least temporarily form a space between the anode (3a), the separator (3b), and the cathode (3c), thereby providing a space into which the electrolyte (4) can permeate. Thus, when the vibrator (172) is operated, the degree of impregnation can be improved.

[0072] The controller (180) can determine whether the amount of the liquid level of the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2) exceeding the reference liquid level corresponds to one of a plurality of preset levels, and then control the vibration application unit (170) to apply vibration to the case (2) according to the level corresponding to the liquid level of the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2). For example, the controller (180) can control the vibration application unit (170) to apply first level vibration when the amount of the liquid level of the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2) exceeding the reference liquid level corresponds to a first level. The controller (180) can control the vibration application unit (170) to apply second level vibration when the amount of the liquid level of the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2) exceeding the reference liquid level corresponds to a second level greater than the first level. The controller (180) can control the vibration application unit (170) to apply third-level vibration when the level of the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2) corresponds to a third level greater than the second level, to the extent that the level of the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2) exceeds the reference level.

[0073] The first level vibration, second level vibration, and third level vibration may be set differently in terms of vibration intensity, frequency, and duration. As the level increases, the vibration intensity and the duration for applying vibration may increase. The frequency of vibration may be set differently depending on the level. For example, the second level vibration may have a greater vibration intensity or duration than the first level vibration. The third level vibration may have a greater vibration intensity or duration than the second level vibration. Since a higher level determined by the controller (180) implies a poor degree of impregnation, the controller (180) may be set to apply a larger vibration to the case (2) when the level is high. A poor degree of impregnation can be interpreted as an environment where the density of the electrode assembly (3) is high, making it difficult for the electrolyte (4) to penetrate between the anode (3a), separator (3b), and cathode (3c). When the controller (180) applies strong or prolonged vibration to the case (2), a space between the anode (3a), separator (3b), and cathode (3c) can be formed as a result. The electrolyte (4) can penetrate into the space temporarily formed by the vibration, and the degree of impregnation can be improved.

[0074] A plurality of vibrators (172) may include a plurality of first vibrators (173) that apply vibrations of a first frequency range, and a plurality of second vibrators (174) that apply vibrations of a second frequency range higher than the first range. The first vibrators (173) may output vibrations in a relatively low frequency range. For example, the first vibrators (173) may output vibrations of a frequency range from 10 Hz to 1 kHz. The second vibrators (174) may output vibrations in a relatively high frequency range. For example, the second vibrators (174) may output vibrations of a frequency range from 100 Hz to 10 kHz. Vibrations of a frequency according to a control signal provided by a controller (180) of the first vibrators (173) and the second vibrators (174) may be output. The frequency of the vibrations output by the vibrators (172) may be set differently depending on the design of the electrodes and active materials. The vibration output by the vibrator (172) can be determined at a frequency in which the active material layer is not separated from the current collector and no cracks occur in the active material layer.

[0075] A plurality of first vibrators (173) may be spaced apart from each other and arranged in a line. A plurality of second vibrators (174) may be spaced apart from each other and arranged in a line. For example, two first vibration rows, in which a plurality of first vibrators (173) are arranged spaced apart at a certain interval, may be located in the middle-lower and middle-upper parts of the wall (171), respectively, and three second vibration rows, in which a plurality of first vibrators (173) are arranged spaced apart at a certain interval, may be located in the lower, middle, and upper parts of the wall (171), respectively. The number, location, and arrangement of the first vibration rows and the second vibration rows may be changed to provide effective vibration for improving the degree of impregnation in the case (2). Depending on the location or number of the first vibration rows and the second vibration rows, the magnitude, time, and frequency of the first level vibration, second level vibration, and third level vibration may be set in various ways.

[0076] The first level vibration may be vibrations caused by two first vibration rows applied to the case (2) for a first time. The second level vibration may be vibrations caused by a second vibration row located at the top and center of the wall (171) applied to the case (2) for a second time, and subsequently vibrations caused by two first vibration rows applied to the case (2) for a third time. The third level vibration may be vibrations caused by a second vibration row located at the top of the wall (171) and two first vibration rows applied to the case (2) for a fourth time, and subsequently vibrations caused by a second vibration row located at the center and bottom of the wall (171) applied to the case (2) for a fifth time, and vibrations caused by two first vibration rows applied to the case (2) for a sixth time.

[0077] The first level vibration applies vibration of a frequency output by the first vibrator (173) to the case (2). Since the two first vibration rows are located in the middle-lower and middle-upper parts of the wall (171), vibration can be applied to a position corresponding to the lower part of the case (2) overall. Since the first level has a better degree of impregnation than the second or third level, vibration can be applied with a low frequency and for a relatively short time. The first time in the first level vibration may be about 60 seconds. The first time may be set differently.

[0078] The second level vibration may be such that the second vibration train operates for a second time period, and then the first vibration train operates for a third time period. That is, the second level vibration may be a type of vibration in which a high-frequency vibration is applied first and a low-frequency vibration is applied later. Among the plurality of second vibration trains, the second vibration train located at the upper and central parts of the wall (171) may operate, while the second vibration train located at the lower part of the wall (171) may not operate. The second level vibration may be such that both the second vibration trains located at the middle-upper and middle-lower parts of the wall (171) operate. The second time may be 30 seconds, and the third time may be 60 seconds. The second time and the third time may be set differently. Depending on the characteristics of the electrode assembly (3), the first vibrator (173) may operate first, and the second vibrator (174) may operate later.

[0079] When the second vibration train located at the upper and central parts of the wall (171) is activated, high-frequency vibration can be applied to the central part of the case (2). Thus, the space between the electrode assemblies (3) can be formed better. Subsequently, when the first vibration train located at the middle-lower and middle-upper parts of the wall (171) is activated, the vibration frequencies are different, so the space that can be formed in the electrode assemblies (3) can also be different. Thus, the electrolyte (4) can be absorbed better into the space, and the degree of impregnation can be improved.

[0080] The third level of vibration involves applying high-frequency vibration and low-frequency vibration simultaneously to the case (2), then applying high-frequency vibration to the case (2), and finally applying low-frequency vibration to the case (2). The fact that the liquid level of the electrolyte (4) is at the third level means that the degree of impregnation is low. By simultaneously applying low-frequency vibration and high-frequency vibration to the case (2), a space can be better formed inside the electrode assembly (3). Therefore, the electrolyte (4) can seep into the space better, and the degree of impregnation can be improved. The fourth time may be 60 seconds, the fifth time may be 30 seconds, and the sixth time may be 60 seconds. The fourth to sixth times may be set differently.

[0081] The reason for poor impregnation may be that the electrolyte (4) is difficult to penetrate into the central part of the electrode assembly (3) rather than the upper and lower parts corresponding to the edges of the electrode assembly (3). Therefore, when the level is high, the vibration application unit (170) can be controlled to apply strong and complex vibrations to the central part of the case (2). Accordingly, the third level vibration can apply vibrations of complex frequencies to the central part of the case (2) by simultaneously operating the second vibration row located at the top of the wall (171) and the first vibration row located at the middle-upper and middle-lower parts of the wall (171). Next, the third level vibration can apply high-frequency vibrations to the middle-lower part of the case (2) by operating the second vibration row at the central and lower parts of the wall (171). Finally, the third level vibration can apply low-frequency vibrations to the lower part of the case (2) by operating the first vibration row located at the middle-upper and middle-lower parts of the wall (171). Accordingly, a space is formed in the central and middle lower parts of the electrode assembly (3), allowing the electrolyte (4) to seep through the space and improve the degree of impregnation.

[0082] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing each step of a method for injecting an electrolyte (4) into a battery cell (1) according to one embodiment.

[0083] A method for injecting an electrolyte (4) into a battery cell (1) may include the step (S10) of injecting an electrolyte (4) into a case (2) in which an electrode assembly (3) is housed, with the first hopper (120) being housed in a tray (110); the step (S20) of a level sensor (130) measuring the level of the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2); and the step (S30) of a controller (180) receiving the level of the electrolyte (4) from the level sensor (130) and comparing the level of the electrolyte (4) with a reference level to measure the degree of impregnation.

[0084] The step (S10) of injecting the electrolyte (4) is a step in which the electrolyte (4) is injected from the first hopper (120) into the case (2). In the step (S10) of injecting the electrolyte (4), the case (2) is accommodated in the tray (110), a predetermined amount of electrolyte (4) is stored in the first hopper (120), the outlet (122) of the first hopper (120) is inserted into the injection port (2a) of the case (2), and the electrolyte (4) can be injected from the first hopper (120) into the case (2).

[0085] Referring to FIGS. 8 to 11, the step (S10) of injecting the electrolyte (4) is described.

[0086] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing the state in which a case (2) is received in a tray (110).

[0087] A case (2) can be inserted into the receiving portion (111) of a tray (110) located within the chamber (140). An electrode assembly (3) can be housed inside the case (2). The case (2) may be a case (2) of a rectangular battery cell (1) or a case (2) of a cylindrical battery cell (1). An inlet (2a) on the upper surface of the case (2) may be open. The tray (110) may be moved downward so that the case (2) can be inserted into the tray (110). When the case (2) is housed in the tray (110) while the tray (110) is moved downward, the case (2) and the first hopper (120) may be separated.

[0088] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing the state in which a predetermined amount of electrolyte (4) is moved from the second hopper (150) to the first hopper (120).

[0089] The controller (180) can control the valve (151) so that a predetermined amount of electrolyte (4) moves from the second hopper (150) to the first hopper (120). The valve (151) is opened for a predetermined time and then closed so that a portion of the electrolyte (4) stored in the second hopper (150) can move to the inlet (121) of the first hopper (120). The controller (180) can control the amount of electrolyte (4) by adjusting the time the valve (151) is opened.

[0090] In order for the first hopper (120) and the inlet (2a) of the case (2) to be connected, there must be no water level sensor (130) between the first hopper (120) and the case (2). The step (S10) of injecting the electrolyte (4) can be performed by the controller (180) controlling a sensor moving part (131) that moves the water level sensor (130) to the inlet (2a) formed in the case (2), thereby keeping the water level sensor (130) separated from the inlet (2a) while the first hopper (120) injects the electrolyte (4) through the inlet (2a). The controller (180) controlling the sensor moving part (131) to separate the water level sensor (130) from the case (2) may be performed immediately after the water level measurement is performed.

[0091] FIG. 10 is a drawing showing the state in which the tray (110) moves upward and the first hopper (120) and the injection port (2a) of the case (2) are connected.

[0092] The controller (180) can move the tray (110) upward to insert the outlet (122) of the first hopper (120) into the inlet (2a) of the case (2). When the tray (110) is moved upward, the outlet (122) of the first hopper (120), located above the inlet (2a) of the case (2), can be inserted into the inlet (2a). Since the height of the case (2) and the position of the outlet of the second hopper (150) are values ​​determined according to the type of case (2), the controller (180) can control the tray (110) to move upward by a set height.

[0093] FIG. 11 is a drawing showing the state in which the electrolyte (4) is injected from the first hopper (120) into the case (2).

[0094] The controller (180) can control a vacuum generator connected via a vacuum line (141) so that the inside of the chamber (140) becomes a vacuum. When the inside of the chamber (140) becomes a vacuum, the electrolyte (4) stored in the first hopper (120) can be moved into the inlet (2a) of the case (2) by atmospheric pressure. The controller (180) can block the outlet (122) of the first hopper (120) when all the electrolyte (4) has been injected. When the inside of the chamber (140) becomes a vacuum, the inside of the case (2) also becomes a vacuum, and since there is no air between the positive electrode (3a), the separator (3b), and the negative electrode (3c) of the electrode assembly (3), the electrolyte (4) can be easily absorbed.

[0095] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing the state in which the tray (110) moves downward and the water level sensor (130) measures the water level of the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2).

[0096] The step (S20) of measuring the level of the electrolyte (4) can be performed after the controller (180) moves the tray (110) downward. The step (S20) of measuring the level of the electrolyte (4) can be performed after the controller (180) controls the sensor moving part (131) to move the level sensor (130) to the injection port (2a).

[0097] In the step (S20) of measuring the liquid level of the electrolyte (4), the controller (180) can move the tray (110) downward. When the tray (110) is moved downward, the outlet (122) of the first hopper (120) can be separated from the inlet (2a) of the case (2). Then, the first hopper (120) and the case (2) can be separated to form a space where the liquid level sensor (130) is positioned. The controller (180) can control the sensor moving part (131) that moves the liquid level sensor (130) to position the liquid level sensor (130) above the inlet (2a) of the case (2). The liquid level sensor (130) can measure the liquid level of the electrolyte (4) through the inlet (2a). The liquid level sensor (130) can measure the liquid level of the electrolyte (4) and provide it to the controller (180).

[0098] The step (S30) of measuring the degree of impregnation involves the controller (180) measuring the degree of impregnation by comparing the level of the electrolyte (4) received from the level sensor (130) with a reference level. The controller (180) compares the set reference level with the level of the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2) received from the level sensor (130), and if the level of the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2) is high, it can determine that the degree of impregnation is poor.

[0099] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the process of checking the amount of electrolyte (4) injected using a weight sensor (160) in a method of injecting electrolyte (4) into a battery cell (1) according to one embodiment. Refer to FIG. 1 and FIG. 8 to FIG. 12 together.

[0100] In the step (S10) of injecting the electrolyte (4), the electrolyte (4) must be injected in a precise amount so that the level of the electrolyte (4) can be measured accurately to determine the degree of impregnation. Therefore, in the method of injecting the electrolyte (4) into the battery cell (1), the amount of the electrolyte (4) can be checked using a weight sensor (160) to verify the amount of the electrolyte (4) injected in the step (S10) of injecting the electrolyte (4).

[0101] A method for injecting an electrolyte (4) into a battery cell (1) comprises the steps of: measuring the weight of the case (2) using a weight sensor (160) connected to a position where the case (2) is received in a tray (110) before the electrolyte (4) is injected into the case (2) (S41); measuring the weight of the case (2) into which the electrolyte (4) has been injected using the weight sensor (160) after the electrolyte (4) has been injected into the case (2) (S42); calculating the weight of the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2) by subtracting the weight of the case (2) before the electrolyte (4) is injected from the weight of the case (2) into which the electrolyte (4) has been injected, which is received from the weight sensor (160) by the controller (180) (S43); comparing the weight of the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2) with a reference weight by the controller (180) (S44); and if the weight of the electrolyte (4) is less than the reference weight, the controller (180) [performs] a first The method may further include a step (S45) of controlling the hopper (120) to additionally inject electrolyte (4) by the difference between the weight of the electrolyte (4) and the reference weight. Then, after performing the step (S45) of additionally injecting electrolyte (4), a step (S42) of measuring the weight of the case (2) into which the electrolyte (4) has been injected may be performed. Then, if the weight of the electrolyte (4) is greater than or equal to the reference weight, the controller (180) may perform a step (S20) of measuring the liquid level of the electrolyte (4).

[0102] The step (S41) of measuring the weight of the case (2) can be performed when the case (2) is inserted into the tray (110). Before the electrolyte (4) is injected into the case (2), the weight sensor (160) can measure the weight while the electrode assembly (3) is inserted inside and provide it to the controller (180).

[0103] Then, the controller (180) performs the step (S10) of injecting the electrolyte (4) into the case (2), and when the electrolyte (4) stored in the first hopper (120) is injected into the case (2), it can perform the step (S42) of measuring the weight of the case (2) into which the electrolyte (4) has been injected.

[0104] The step (S42) of measuring the weight of the case (2) into which the electrolyte (4) has been injected can be performed while the tray (110) is moved upward. If it is necessary to inject additional electrolyte (4), there is no need to move the tray (110) again, which can help shorten the process time. The weight sensor (160) can measure the weight of the case (2) into which the electrolyte (4) has been injected and provide it to the controller (180).

[0105] The step (S43) of calculating the weight of the electrolyte (4) involves the controller (180) calculating the weight of the electrolyte (4) by subtracting the weight of the case (2) before the electrolyte (4) was injected from the weight of the case (2) into which the electrolyte (4) was injected. Once the weight of the electrolyte (4) is calculated, the exact amount of electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2) can be verified. Since the amount of electrolyte (4) moved by opening and closing the valve (151) may not be accurate, the amount of electrolyte (4) is measured accurately once more using weight.

[0106] The step (S44) of comparing the weight of the electrolyte (4) with the reference weight is for the controller (180) to compare the weight of the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2) with the reference weight. The reference weight is a value set as the weight of the electrolyte (4) to be injected into the case (2). If the electrolyte (4) is smaller than the reference weight, additional electrolyte (4) injection is required because a sufficient amount of electrolyte (4) is needed to improve the degree of impregnation.

[0107] The step (S45) of additionally injecting the electrolyte (4) can be performed when the weight of the electrolyte (4) is less than the reference weight. In the step (S45) of additionally injecting the electrolyte (4), the controller (180) can control the first hopper (120) to additionally inject the electrolyte (4) by the difference between the weight of the electrolyte (4) and the reference weight. The controller (180) can control the valve (151) to move the electrolyte (4) from the second hopper (150) to the first hopper (120) by the amount of electrolyte (4) to be additionally injected, and open the outlet (122) of the first hopper (120) to inject the electrolyte (4) into the case (2).

[0108] After additionally injecting the electrolyte (4), the controller (180) may again perform the step (S42) of measuring the weight of the case (2) into which the electrolyte (4) has been injected. Then, the controller (180) may recalculate the weight of the electrolyte (4) and compare it with a reference weight. If the weight of the electrolyte (4) is greater than or equal to the reference weight, the controller (180) may perform the step (S20) of measuring the level of the electrolyte (4).

[0109] When measuring the degree of impregnation when the electrolyte (4) is injected in an amount less than the set amount, a problem may occur where the level is displayed as low even though the actual degree of impregnation is low. As explained, if the level of the electrolyte (4) is measured after confirming whether the electrolyte (4) has been injected in the set amount using a weight sensor (160), the degree of impregnation can be determined more accurately.

[0110] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a process of improving the degree of impregnation using a vibration application unit (170) in a method of injecting an electrolyte (4) into a battery cell (1) according to one embodiment. Refer to FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 together.

[0111] The step of measuring the degree of impregnation (S30) may include a step (S31) in which the controller (180) compares the level of the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2) with a reference level, and a step (S32) in which the controller (180) determines the level of the electrolyte (4) to one of a plurality of preset levels.

[0112] The step (S31) of comparing the level of the electrolyte (4) with the reference level is for the controller (180) to compare the level of the electrolyte (4) received from the level sensor (130) with a preset reference level. If the level of the electrolyte (4) is below the reference level, the controller (180) can determine (S33) that the degree of impregnation is good.

[0113] When the liquid level of the electrolyte (4) exceeds the reference liquid level, the controller (180) may perform the step (S32) of determining the liquid level of the electrolyte (4) to one of a plurality of preset levels. The plurality of levels are preset. The higher the level, the more the liquid level of the electrolyte (4) exceeds the reference liquid level. Since the liquid level of the electrolyte (4) exceeding the reference liquid level means that the degree of impregnation is poor, vibration may be applied to the case (2) to improve the degree of impregnation.

[0114] The controller (180) can determine the first level if the liquid level of the electrolyte (4) exceeds the reference level and is below the first level boundary. The controller (180) can determine the second level if the liquid level of the electrolyte (4) exceeds the first level boundary and is below the second level boundary. The controller (180) can determine the third level if the liquid level of the electrolyte (4) exceeds the third level boundary. The reference level, the first level boundary, the second level boundary, and the third level boundary may vary depending on the type, size, design of the battery cell (1), the characteristics of the electrode assembly (3) and the electrolyte (4), etc.

[0115] The method of injecting electrolyte (4) into the battery cell (1) may further include the step (S50) of applying vibration according to a level to the case (2) by controlling a vibration applying unit (170) which is connected to the tray (110) and contacts the side of the case (2) and applies ultrasonic vibration to the case (2).

[0116] The step of applying vibration (S50) can be performed according to the degree of impregnation measured in the step of measuring the degree of impregnation (S30). In the step of applying vibration (S50), the controller (180) can operate the vibration application unit (170) to apply vibration to the case (2). When vibration is applied to the case (2), the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2) can also vibrate, and the electrode assembly (3) can also vibrate. Since the electrode assembly (3) is in the form of a stacked anode (3a), a separator (3b), and a cathode (3c), a space for the electrolyte (4) to seep between the anode (3a), the separator (3b), and the cathode (3c) can be formed by the vibration. Therefore, the degree of impregnation can be improved by applying vibration while the electrolyte (4) is injected.

[0117] The controller (180) can control the vibration application unit (170) to apply vibration according to the level to the case (2). For example, in the step (S50) of applying vibration, the controller (180) can control the vibration application unit (170) to apply first-level vibration when the degree to which the liquid level of the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2) exceeds the reference liquid level corresponds to a first level, control the vibration application unit (170) to apply second-level vibration when the degree to which the liquid level of the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2) exceeds the reference liquid level corresponds to a second level greater than the first level, and control the vibration application unit (170) to apply third-level vibration when the degree to which the liquid level of the electrolyte (4) injected into the case (2) exceeds the reference liquid level corresponds to a third level greater than the second level.

[0118] The vibration applied to the case (2) can be designed in various ways depending on the arrangement structure of the vibrator (172) of the vibration application unit (170). The vibration application unit (170) may include a wall (171) connected to the tray (110) and extending to the center of the case (2), and a plurality of vibrators (172) connected to the wall (171) so as to face the case (2). In addition, the plurality of vibrators (172) may include a plurality of first vibrators (173) that apply vibration of a first range of frequencies, and a plurality of second vibrators (174) that apply vibration of a second range of frequencies higher than the first range. In addition, two first vibration rows, each having multiple first vibrators (173) arranged at regular intervals, may be located in the middle-lower and middle-upper parts of the wall (171), respectively, and three second vibration rows, each having multiple first vibrators (173) arranged at regular intervals, may be located in the lower, middle, and upper parts of the wall (171), respectively.

[0119] As described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, the first level vibration, second level vibration, and third level vibration can be set differently in terms of the position, frequency range, intensity, and time of the operating vibrator (172).

[0120] The first level vibration may be vibrations caused by two first vibration rows applied to the case (2) for a first time. The second level vibration may be vibrations caused by a second vibration row located at the top and center of the wall (171) applied to the case (2) for a second time, followed by vibrations caused by two first vibration rows applied to the case (2) for a third time. The third level vibration may be vibrations caused by a second vibration row located at the top of the wall (171) and two first vibration rows applied to the case (2) for a fourth time, followed by vibrations caused by a second vibration row located at the center and bottom of the wall (171) applied to the case (2) for a fifth time, followed by vibrations caused by two first vibration rows applied to the case (2) for a sixth time.

[0121] As specific details regarding Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 vibrations have been explained above, redundant content will be omitted.

[0122] The present disclosure has been described in detail through specific embodiments. The description above is merely an example of applying the principles of the present disclosure, and other configurations may be further included without departing from the scope of the present invention. Explanation of the symbols

[0123] 1: Battery cell 2: Case 2a: Inlet 3: Electrode assembly 3a: Anode 3b: Separator 3c: Cathode 4: Electrolyte 10: Device for injecting electrolyte into battery cells 110: Tray 111: Cell Receptor 120: 1st Hopper 130: Water level sensor 131: Sensor moving part 140: Chamber 141: Vacuum line 150: 2nd Hopper 151: Valve 160: Weight sensor 170: Vibration Intake 171: Wall 172: Vibrator 173: First vibrator 174: Second vibrator 180: Controller

Claims

Claim 1 An apparatus for injecting electrolyte into a battery cell, comprising: one or more trays for housing a case in which an electrode assembly is inserted; one or more first hoppers for injecting electrolyte into the case; one or more level sensors for measuring the level of the electrolyte injected into the case; and a controller for receiving the level of the electrolyte from the level sensors and measuring the degree of impregnation by comparing the level of the electrolyte with a reference level. Claim 2 An apparatus for injecting electrolyte into a battery cell according to claim 1, further comprising one or more weight sensors connected to a position in which the case is received in the tray to measure the weight of the case, wherein the controller measures the weight of the electrolyte injected into the case using the weight received from the weight sensors, and additionally injects the electrolyte if the amount of electrolyte injected into the case is less than a reference. Claim 3 An apparatus for injecting electrolyte into a battery cell according to claim 1, further comprising a sensor moving part for moving the liquid level sensor to an inlet formed in the case, wherein the controller controls the sensor moving part so that the liquid level sensor is separated from the inlet while the first hopper injects the electrolyte through the inlet, and controls the sensor moving part so that the liquid level sensor is moved to the inlet after the first hopper injects the electrolyte. Claim 4 An apparatus for injecting electrolyte into a battery cell, wherein, in any one of claims 1 to 3, it further comprises a vibration applying unit connected to the tray and in contact with the side of the case, and applying ultrasonic vibration to the case, and wherein the controller controls the vibration applying unit to apply ultrasonic vibration to the case when the liquid level of the electrolyte injected into the case exceeds the reference liquid level. Claim 5 A device for injecting electrolyte into a battery cell according to claim 4, wherein the controller determines whether the level of the electrolyte injected into the case exceeds the reference level and corresponds to one of a plurality of preset levels, and controls the vibration applying unit to apply vibration to the case according to the corresponding level. Claim 6 An apparatus for injecting electrolyte into a battery cell, wherein the vibration applying unit comprises a wall connected to the tray and extending to the center of the case; and a plurality of vibrators connected to the wall so as to face the case, and the controller controls the vibration applying unit to apply a first level vibration when the degree to which the liquid level of the electrolyte injected into the case exceeds the reference liquid level corresponds to a first level, controls the vibration applying unit to apply a second level vibration when the degree to which the liquid level of the electrolyte injected into the case exceeds the reference liquid level corresponds to a second level greater than the first level, and controls the vibration applying unit to apply a third level vibration when the degree to which the liquid level of the electrolyte injected into the case exceeds the reference liquid level corresponds to a third level greater than the second level. Claim 7 In claim 6, the plurality of vibrators comprises a plurality of first vibrators that apply vibration of a first range of frequencies; and includes a plurality of second vibrators that apply vibrations of a second range with a frequency higher than the first range, wherein two first vibration rows, arranged such that the plurality of first vibrators are spaced apart at a certain interval, are respectively located in the middle-lower and middle-upper parts of the wall, and three second vibration rows, arranged such that the plurality of first vibrators are spaced apart at a certain interval, are respectively located in the lower, central, and upper parts of the wall, and the first level vibration is the vibration caused by the two first vibration rows being applied to the case for a first time, the second level vibration is the vibration caused by the second vibration row located in the upper and central parts of the wall being applied to the case for a second time, and subsequently the vibration caused by the two first vibration rows being applied to the case for a third time, and the third level vibration is the vibration caused by the second vibration row located in the upper part of the wall and the two first vibration rows being applied to the case for a fourth time, and subsequently the vibration caused by the second vibration row located in the central and lower parts of the wall being applied to the case for a fifth time. A device for injecting electrolyte into a battery cell, wherein vibrations caused by the two first vibration heats are applied to the case for a sixth time. Claim 8 A method for injecting electrolyte into a battery cell, comprising: a step in which a case containing an electrode assembly is received in a tray, and a first hopper injects electrolyte into the case; a step in which a level sensor measures the level of the electrolyte injected into the case; and a step in which a controller receives the level of the electrolyte from the level sensor and measures the degree of impregnation by comparing the level of the electrolyte with a reference level. Claim 9 A method for injecting electrolyte into a battery cell according to claim 8, comprising: a step in which a weight sensor connected to a position where the case is received in the tray measures the weight of the case before the electrolyte is injected into the case; a step in which the weight sensor measures the weight of the case into which the electrolyte is injected after the electrolyte is injected into the case; a step in which the controller calculates the weight of the electrolyte injected into the case by subtracting the weight of the case before the electrolyte is injected from the weight of the case into which the electrolyte is injected received from the weight sensor; a step in which the controller compares the weight of the electrolyte injected into the case with a reference weight; and further comprising, if the weight of the electrolyte is less than the reference weight, a step in which the controller controls the first hopper to additionally inject the electrolyte by the difference between the weight of the electrolyte and the reference weight, and after performing the step of additionally injecting the electrolyte, a step of measuring the weight of the case into which the electrolyte is injected, and if the weight of the electrolyte is greater than or equal to the reference weight, a step in which the controller measures the liquid level of the electrolyte. Claim 10 A method for injecting electrolyte into a battery cell according to claim 8, wherein the step of injecting the electrolyte is performed by the controller controlling a sensor moving unit that moves the liquid level sensor to an injector formed in the case, so as to keep the liquid level sensor separated from the injector while the first hopper injects the electrolyte through the injector, and the step of measuring the liquid level of the electrolyte is performed by the controller controlling the sensor moving unit to move the liquid level sensor to the injector. Claim 11 A method for injecting an electrolyte into a battery cell, wherein, in any one of claims 8 to 10, the step of measuring the degree of impregnation comprises: a step in which the controller compares the level of the electrolyte injected into the case with a reference level; and a step in which the controller determines the level of the electrolyte to one of a plurality of preset levels. Claim 12 A method for injecting an electrolyte into a battery cell according to claim 11, further comprising the step of controlling a vibration applying unit that applies ultrasonic vibration to the case, wherein the controller is connected to the tray and contacts the side of the case, and applies vibration according to the level to the case. Claim 13 A method for injecting electrolyte into a battery cell according to claim 12, wherein the step of applying vibration comprises: controlling the vibration applying unit to apply a first level vibration when the degree to which the liquid level of the electrolyte injected into the case exceeds the reference liquid level corresponds to a first level; controlling the vibration applying unit to apply a second level vibration when the degree to which the liquid level of the electrolyte injected into the case exceeds the reference liquid level corresponds to a second level greater than the first level; and controlling the vibration applying unit to apply a third level vibration when the degree to which the liquid level of the electrolyte injected into the case exceeds the reference liquid level corresponds to a third level greater than the second level. Claim 14 In claim 13, the vibration applying unit comprises a wall connected to the tray and extending to the center of the case; and a plurality of vibrators connected to the wall so as to face the case, wherein the plurality of vibrators comprises a plurality of first vibrators that apply vibration of a first range of frequencies; and includes a plurality of second vibrators that apply vibrations of a second range with a frequency higher than the first range, wherein two first vibration rows, arranged such that the plurality of first vibrators are spaced apart at a certain interval, are respectively located in the middle-lower and middle-upper parts of the wall, and three second vibration rows, arranged such that the plurality of first vibrators are spaced apart at a certain interval, are respectively located in the lower, central, and upper parts of the wall, and the first level vibration is the vibration caused by the two first vibration rows being applied to the case for a first time, the second level vibration is the vibration caused by the second vibration row located in the upper and central parts of the wall being applied to the case for a second time, and subsequently the vibration caused by the two first vibration rows being applied to the case for a third time, and the third level vibration is the vibration caused by the second vibration row located in the upper part of the wall and the two first vibration rows being applied to the case for a fourth time, and subsequently the vibration caused by the second vibration row located in the central and lower parts of the wall being applied to the case for a fifth time. A method for injecting an electrolyte into a battery cell, wherein the vibration caused by the two first vibration heats is applied to the case for a sixth time.

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