Battery string conveying method and battery module production equipment

Abstract

This invention discloses a battery string conveying method and a battery module production apparatus. The battery string conveying method includes: performing EL detection on the wire-welded battery strings to determine a first detection result; if the first detection result indicates a severely abnormal string, transferring the battery string to a return material box; if the first detection result indicates a slightly abnormal string, transferring the battery string to a first conveying mechanism; if the number of battery strings on the first conveying mechanism reaches a first preset value, then conveying the first preset value of battery strings on the first conveying mechanism to a typesetting machine, wherein the first preset value is the number of battery strings included in the battery module. The battery string conveying method provided by this invention, for battery strings with a first detection result of slightly abnormality, directly conveys them to the typesetting machine via the first conveying mechanism, eliminating the need for re-conducting the strings, thereby reducing redundant repetitive work for rework personnel and improving rework efficiency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of photovoltaic technology, and in particular to a method for conveying battery strings and a battery module production apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] A solar module, also known as a photovoltaic module, consists of laminates comprising multiple cell strings. A cell string is formed by arranging multiple cells sequentially and electrically connecting them end-to-end. A stringer is used to connect multiple cells in series to form a cell string, while a layout machine is used to lay multiple cell strings flat on glass with an adhesive film applied for layout.

[0003] Currently, the battery strings output by the stringer must pass EL (Electro Luminescence) testing before being sent to the stacking machine for stacking. Battery strings that fail the EL test must be returned to the stacking machine. After repair, the returned battery strings are manually loaded onto the stacking machine. After stacking and the lamination process, another EL test is required. Photovoltaic laminates that fail the EL test must be returned to the stacking machine.

[0004] However, in the rework process, the lack of EL test images for reference makes the rework process slow and the success rate low. The reworked battery strings are easily detected as unqualified in the EL test after the stacking process, thus requiring stacking rework, i.e., a second rework, resulting in low overall rework efficiency.

[0005] Method content

[0006] This invention provides a battery string conveying method and a battery module production apparatus, aiming to solve the technical problem of low overall rework efficiency of battery strings in the string welding, arrangement and stacking processes in the prior art.

[0007] In a first aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a battery string conveying method, applied to the conveying of battery strings in the production of battery modules, characterized in that it includes:

[0008] EL testing is performed on the wired battery string to determine the first test result of the battery string;

[0009] If the first detection result indicates a severely abnormal string, the battery string is transferred to the return box.

[0010] If the first detection result indicates a slight abnormality, the battery string is transferred to the first conveying mechanism;

[0011] If the number of battery strings on the first conveying mechanism reaches a first preset value, then the first preset value of battery strings on the first conveying mechanism are conveyed to the typesetting machine, wherein the first preset value is the number of battery strings included in the battery assembly.

[0012] Optionally, the first detection result for determining the battery string includes:

[0013] Determine whether the number of battery cells in the battery string that have experienced the first abnormality is greater than zero and less than or equal to a second preset value, wherein half of the total number of battery cells in the battery string is taken as the first value, and the second preset value is within the range of the first value minus two to the first value plus two.

[0014] If so, then the first detection result is determined to be a mildly abnormal string;

[0015] If not, then the first detection result is determined to be a severely abnormal string.

[0016] Optionally, after the step of conveying the first preset number of battery strings on the first conveying mechanism to the typesetting machine if the number of battery strings on the first conveying mechanism reaches a first preset value, the method further includes:

[0017] EL testing is performed on the photovoltaic stacked component, which includes a first preset number of battery strings, to determine the second test result of the photovoltaic stacked component;

[0018] If the second test result indicates an abnormality, the photovoltaic stacked component is transported to the stacking and rewinding platform.

[0019] Optionally, after the step of performing EL testing on the wired battery strings to determine the first test result of the battery strings, and before the step of performing EL testing on the stacked photovoltaic stack including a first preset number of battery strings to determine the second test result of the photovoltaic stack, the method further includes:

[0020] If the first detection result is a qualified string, the battery string is transferred to the second conveying mechanism, wherein the conveying direction of the second conveying mechanism is the same as that of the first conveying mechanism.

[0021] If the number of battery strings on the second conveying mechanism reaches a first preset value, then the first preset value of battery strings on the second conveying mechanism are conveyed to the typesetting machine.

[0022] Optionally, the typesetting machine includes a third conveying mechanism movable to a first position, a second position, and a third position, with a horizontal direction perpendicular to the conveying direction of the first conveying mechanism as the first direction, and the first position, the second position, and the third position being distributed at intervals along the first direction;

[0023] The step of conveying the first preset number of battery strings on the first conveying mechanism to the typesetting machine includes:

[0024] The first preset number of battery strings on the first conveying mechanism are conveyed to the third conveying mechanism located at the first position, so that the typesetting machine can type up the battery strings on the third conveying mechanism located at the first position.

[0025] The step of conveying the first preset number of battery strings on the second conveying mechanism to the typesetting machine includes:

[0026] The first preset number of battery strings on the second conveying mechanism are conveyed to the third conveying mechanism located at the second position;

[0027] The third conveying mechanism located at the second position is moved to the third position so that the typesetting machine can type up the battery strings on the third conveying mechanism located at the third position.

[0028] In this embodiment of the invention, battery strings with a first detection result of mild abnormality are directly conveyed to the typesetting machine via the first conveying mechanism, eliminating the need for reconnection and reducing redundant repetitive work for reconnection and repair personnel. These battery strings with a first detection result of mild abnormality are subsequently transferred to the stacking and rework section for direct rework. The stacking and rework section utilizes EL detection images for reference, resulting in high rework efficiency and thus improving overall rework efficiency and production capacity. Conversely, battery strings with a first detection result of severe abnormality are transferred to the reconnection box for reconnection, ensuring... This ensures the smooth operation of subsequent layout processes and avoids the back-up blockage caused by transferring abnormal battery strings to the back-up process. Furthermore, for battery strings with a slightly abnormal initial inspection result, back-up is unnecessary, preventing the addition of defective cells due to manual inspection or errors during back-up, thus avoiding additional rework and ensuring rework efficiency. Additionally, in this embodiment, automatic detection and classification are possible, improving efficiency compared to manual selection and turnover of battery strings, and avoiding the addition of defective cells during manual selection.

[0029] In a second aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a battery component manufacturing apparatus, including a battery string conveying device for conveying stringed battery strings output from a stringer to a typesetting machine, the battery string conveying device comprising:

[0030] The first EL detection component is used to perform EL detection on the wired battery string and determine the first detection result of the battery string.

[0031] The battery string to be returned box is used to place the battery string whose first detection result is a severely abnormal string and needs to be returned;

[0032] A first conveying mechanism is used to place battery strings whose first detection result is slightly abnormal, and is also used to convey a first preset value of battery strings on the first conveying mechanism to a typesetting machine if the number of battery strings on the first conveying mechanism reaches a first preset value, wherein the first preset value is the number of battery strings included in the battery assembly.

[0033] The battery string transfer assembly is used to transfer battery strings with a slightly abnormal result to the first conveying mechanism, and also to transfer battery strings with a severely abnormal result to the return box.

[0034] Optionally, with the conveying direction of the first conveying mechanism as the second direction, the return box to be processed is located on one side of the first EL detection component along the second direction.

[0035] Optionally, the battery string conveying device further includes a second conveying mechanism, the conveying direction of the second conveying mechanism being consistent with the second direction, the second conveying mechanism being used to place battery strings whose first detection result is qualified, and the second conveying mechanism being used to convey the first preset value of battery strings on the second conveying mechanism to the typesetting machine if the number of battery strings on the second conveying mechanism reaches a first preset value.

[0036] Optionally, the battery string conveying device further includes a string welding machine unloading belt, which is used to receive the battery strings output by the string welding machine. The first direction is a horizontal direction perpendicular to the second direction, and the string welding machine unloading belt, the first conveying mechanism, the second conveying mechanism and the first EL detection component are arranged at intervals along the first direction.

[0037] Optionally, the typesetting machine includes a third conveying mechanism movable to a first position, a second position, and a third position. The third conveying mechanism is located on one side of the second conveying mechanism along the second direction, and the first position, the second position, and the third position are spaced apart along the first direction.

[0038] The third conveying mechanism located at the first position is used to receive the battery string conveyed from the first conveying mechanism, the third conveying mechanism located at the second position is used to receive the battery string conveyed from the second conveying mechanism, and the layout machine is used to grab the battery string on the third conveying mechanism located at the first position or the battery string on the third conveying mechanism located at the third position for layout.

[0039] Optionally, it also includes a second EL detection component, a stacking platform, and a photovoltaic stack conveying component. The second EL detection component is used to perform EL detection on the stacked photovoltaic stack including a first preset number of cell strings and determine a second detection result of the photovoltaic stack.

[0040] The stacking and re-returning platform is used to place photovoltaic stacked components whose second detection result is abnormal and which need to be stacked and re-returned. The photovoltaic stacked component conveying assembly is used to transfer the photovoltaic stacked components whose second detection result is abnormal to the stacking and re-returning platform.

[0041] In this embodiment of the invention, battery strings with a first detection result of mild abnormality are directly conveyed to the typesetting machine via the first conveying mechanism, eliminating the need for reconnection and reducing redundant repetitive work for reconnection maintenance personnel. These battery strings with a first detection result of mild abnormality are subsequently transferred to the stacking and rework section for direct rework. The stacking and rework section utilizes EL detection images for reference, resulting in high rework efficiency and thus improving overall rework efficiency and production capacity. Conversely, battery strings with a first detection result of severe abnormality are transferred to the reconnection box for reconnection, ensuring... This ensures the smooth operation of subsequent layout processes and avoids the back-up blockage caused by transferring abnormal battery strings to the back-up process. Furthermore, for battery strings with a slightly abnormal initial inspection result, back-up is unnecessary, preventing the addition of defective cells due to manual inspection or errors during back-up, thus avoiding additional rework and ensuring rework efficiency. Additionally, in this embodiment, automatic detection and classification are possible, improving efficiency compared to manual selection and turnover of battery strings, and avoiding the addition of defective cells during manual selection.

[0042] The above description is merely an overview of the technical solution of the present invention. In order to better understand the technical means of the present invention, it can be implemented according to the contents of the specification. In order to make the above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention more obvious and understandable, specific embodiments of the present invention are described below. Attached Figure Description

[0043] Figure 1 This is a process flow diagram of the existing technology for string welding, string reversal, layout, stacking, stacking reversal and lamination of battery strings;

[0044] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a device used in the prior art for conveying battery strings between a string welding machine and a typesetting machine;

[0045] Figure 3 A flowchart illustrating the steps of a battery string transport method provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 4 A flowchart illustrating the steps of another battery string delivery method provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 5 A process flow diagram illustrating the practical application of another battery string conveying method provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of the battery string conveying equipment in the battery module production apparatus provided in this embodiment of the invention. Figure 1 ;

[0049] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the structure of the battery string conveying equipment in the battery module production apparatus provided in this embodiment of the invention. Figure 2 .

[0050] Figure label:

[0051] 1-String welding machine unloading conveyor belt, 2-Stringing conveyor belt, 3-NG material box, 4-Battery string transfer mechanism, 5-EL detection component, 6-Conveying conveyor belt, 7-First guide rail, 8-Second guide rail, 10-First EL detection component, 11-Lower electrical fixture, 20-Waiting string return box, 30-First conveying mechanism, 40-Battery string transfer component, 41-Telescopic component, 42-Support rod, 43-Upper voltage block, 44-Battery cell suction component, 50-First sliding component, 51-First slide rail, 52-First slider, 53-Second slide rail, 54-Second slider, 55-Limiting block, 60-Second conveying mechanism, 70-String welding machine unloading belt, 80-Third conveying mechanism, 81-First position, 82-Second position, 83-Third position, 90-Second sliding component, 91-Third slide rail, 92-Third slider. Detailed Implementation

[0052] Exemplary embodiments of the invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. While exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings, it should be understood that the invention may be implemented in various forms and should not be limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this invention will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0053] Currently, referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2 Taking a battery module consisting of 12 battery strings as an example, the battery strings are first conveyed from the stringing machine to the two stringing machine unloading conveyor belts 1. Then, the battery string transfer mechanism 4 slides along the extension direction of the first guide rail 7 to one of the stringing machine unloading conveyor belts 1 to pick up the battery strings on the stringing machine unloading conveyor belt 1. After picking up the battery strings, the battery string transfer mechanism 4 moves to the EL detection component 5. Then, the EL detection component 5 performs power-on detection on the battery strings and outputs the detection results. When the detection result is OK, the battery string transfer mechanism 4 will move the battery strings to the conveyor belt 6 by translation. After the conveyor belt 6 has twelve OK strings, the conveyor belt 6 will transport the twelve OK strings to the string arranging conveyor belt 2. Then, the string arranging conveyor belt 2 moves along the extension direction of the second guide rail 8 to the Figure 2 The position is indicated by the dashed box. Afterward, the transfer module in the typesetting machine will transfer the battery strings on the string conveyor belt 2 located at the position indicated by the dashed box to the alignment platform of the typesetting machine for alignment. After alignment, the typesetting module of the typesetting machine will pick up the battery strings on the alignment platform for typesetting, and finally complete the typesetting action of the typesetting machine. At this time, the battery strings are located on the glass. After the glass is filled with 12 battery strings, the glass flows out and enters the next process, namely the lamination process.

[0054] When the EL detection component 5 detects an NG string, the battery string transfer mechanism 4 transfers the battery string to the NG material box 3. Once the NG material box 3 contains 12 battery strings, these NG strings are sent to a separate string return area for string return. After the string return is completed, once the repaired NG strings total 12, they are manually fed onto the string arrangement conveyor belt 2 of the arrangement machine for arrangement. After arrangement, they proceed to the next process, namely the lamination process. Both OK strings and repaired NG strings undergo pre-EL detection after the lamination process. If the pre-EL detection is OK, they continue to the lamination process; if the pre-EL detection is NG, they need to be re-laminationed. After the re-lamination is completed and passes the rework EL detection, they are then transferred to the lamination process. It should be noted that the above-mentioned OK strings indicate that the battery strings have passed the EL test, and NG strings indicate that the battery strings have failed the EL test. In other words, the battery strings cannot be directly laid out and need to be repaired before being laid out. String return means battery string rework process, and stack return means photovoltaic stack component rework process. Photovoltaic stack components include unlaminated glass, upper encapsulation film, laid-out battery string group, lower encapsulation film, and backsheet.

[0055] However, in the rework process, since there are no EL test images for reference, rework personnel must manually inspect the cells for defects such as cold solder joints and microcracks. The inspection process is slow and prone to omissions. Excessive force applied by the rework personnel during inspection and rework can also cause new microcracks in the cells, resulting in a slow rework process and a low success rate. After rework, the battery strings are easily detected as non-compliant in the EL test after the stacking process, thus requiring stacking rework, i.e., a second rework, resulting in low overall rework efficiency. In addition, currently, all battery strings that fail the test need to be reworked. Battery strings that still have abnormalities after rework are sent to the layout and stacking processes for further processing, which will eventually all flow to the stacking rework line, causing stacking rework line blockage.

[0056] To address the aforementioned problems, embodiments of the present invention provide a battery string conveying method and a battery module production apparatus. The battery string conveying method and battery module production apparatus mentioned above will be described in detail below.

[0057] Firstly, referring to Figures 3 to 5This invention discloses a method for conveying battery strings, applied to the conveying of battery strings during the production of battery modules. (Refer to...) Figure 3 The battery string delivery method provided in this embodiment of the invention includes:

[0058] Step 101: Perform EL testing on the wired battery string to determine the first test result of the battery string.

[0059] Specifically, the battery string conveying method can be performed using the battery module production apparatus shown in this embodiment of the invention. The stringed battery strings output by the stringer need to undergo EL testing, and the number of solar cells in the battery string is greater than or equal to 2. Electroluminescence, also known as field emission, is abbreviated as EL. EL testing is used to detect defects in the solar cells within the battery string. Specifically, the stringed battery strings can be EL tested using the first EL testing component 10 in the battery string conveying equipment. During testing, a forward bias voltage can be applied to the battery string, injecting a large number of non-equilibrium charge carriers. The recombination of these non-equilibrium charge carriers causes the battery string to emit photons. The battery string is then photographed to obtain a first EL testing image, and the first testing result of the battery string can be determined from this first EL testing image.

[0060] The first inspection results can be categorized into qualified strings, slightly abnormal strings, and severely abnormal strings. Qualified strings are those that pass the first EL inspection component 10. Slightly abnormal strings fail the first EL inspection component 10 but can be pre-layouted and subsequently re-layouted. Severely abnormal strings fail the first EL inspection component 10 and cannot be directly laid out, requiring re-layout. Slightly abnormal strings are easier to rework during the re-layout process, while severely abnormal strings face greater difficulty if transferred to the re-layout process.

[0061] The stringed battery strings output from the stringer can be divided into two channels and conveyed to two stringer unloading belts 70, which can be belt conveyors. The battery strings on the stringer unloading belts 70 can be transferred to the first EL detection component 10 for EL detection by the battery string transfer component 40 in the battery string conveying equipment.

[0062] Step 102: If the first detection result indicates a severely abnormal battery string, transfer the battery string to the return box.

[0063] Specifically, the battery strings with a severe abnormality detected by the first EL detection component 10 can be transferred to the return box 20 via the battery string transfer component 40 in the battery string conveying equipment. The return box 20 is used to hold the battery strings that need to be returned. When the number of battery strings in the return box 20 reaches a first preset value, an alarm will be triggered. At this time, a new return box 20 can be manually replaced, and the return box 20 containing the first preset value of battery strings will be sent to the return platform for return. The battery module, i.e., the laminate in the photovoltaic module, includes the first preset value of battery strings, that is, the first preset value is the number of battery strings included in the battery module, such as 12.

[0064] Step 103: If the first detection result indicates a slight abnormality, the battery string is transferred to the first conveying mechanism.

[0065] Specifically, the battery string with a slightly abnormal detection result can be transferred from the first EL detection component 10 to the first conveying mechanism 30 via the battery string transfer component 40. The first conveying mechanism 30 can be a belt conveyor. The conveying direction of the first conveying mechanism 30 is taken as the second direction, which can be referenced... Figure 6 The direction indicated by arrow A in the middle refers to the horizontal direction perpendicular to the conveying direction of the first conveying mechanism 30 as the first direction, which can be referenced. Figure 6 The direction indicated by arrow B. The two string welding machine unloading belts 70 are spaced apart along the first direction, and the first conveying mechanism 30 is located between the two string welding machine unloading belts 70. When the string welding machine unloading belt 70 is a conveyor belt, the conveying direction of the string welding machine unloading belt 70 can be consistent with the conveying direction of the first conveying mechanism 30.

[0066] Step 104: If the number of battery strings on the first conveying mechanism reaches the first preset value, then the first preset value of battery strings on the first conveying mechanism are conveyed to the typesetting machine.

[0067] Specifically, the number of battery strings on the first conveying mechanism 30 gradually increases. When the first conveying mechanism 30 is a belt conveyor, the belt in the first conveying mechanism 30 remains stationary until the number of battery strings on the first conveying mechanism 30 reaches the first preset value. When the number of battery strings on the first conveying mechanism 30 reaches the first preset value, the belt in the first conveying mechanism 30 moves, conveying the first preset value of battery strings on the first conveying mechanism 30 to the typesetting machine. The first preset value is the number of battery strings included in the battery assembly, such as 12.

[0068] In this embodiment of the invention, battery strings with a first detection result of mild abnormality are directly conveyed to the typesetting machine via the first conveying mechanism, eliminating the need for reconnection and reducing redundant repetitive work for reconnection maintenance personnel. These battery strings with a first detection result of mild abnormality will subsequently be transferred to the stacking rework machine for direct rework. The stacking rework process, with EL detection images for reference, has high rework efficiency, thereby improving overall rework efficiency and increasing production capacity. Conversely, battery strings with a first detection result of severe abnormality are transferred to the reconnection box for reconnection, ensuring the normal operation of subsequent typesetting processes and preventing stacking rework line blockage caused by transferring all abnormal battery strings to the stacking rework machine. Furthermore, battery strings with a first detection result of mild abnormality... The battery strings are directly transferred to the stacking and stacking process via a different transport path than those with severely abnormal battery strings in the first inspection, which undergo stacking and stacking before being transferred to the stacking process. This avoids simultaneous transfers to the stacking process, thus preventing line blockage during stacking. Furthermore, for battery strings with slightly abnormal battery strings in the first inspection, since there is no need for stacking and stacking to prevent line blockage, it avoids the addition of defective cells due to manual inspection or errors during stacking and stacking, thereby avoiding additional rework and ensuring rework efficiency. In addition, in this embodiment of the invention, automatic inspection and classification can be performed, which improves efficiency compared to manual selection and turnover of battery strings and avoids the addition of defective cells due to manual selection.

[0069] The first detection result for determining the battery string in step 101 includes:

[0070] Determine whether the number of battery cells in the battery string that have the first abnormality is greater than zero and less than or equal to a second preset value, wherein half of the total number of battery cells in the battery string is taken as the first value, and the second preset value is within the range of the first value minus two to the first value plus two; if yes, then the first detection result is determined to be a mild abnormal string; if no, then the first detection result is determined to be a severe abnormal string.

[0071] Specifically, the second preset value can be a positive integer. It can be the first value minus two, minus one, the first value, plus one, or plus two. For example, if the battery string contains 12 cells, the first value is 6, and the second preset value is in the range of 4-8, meaning it can be 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8. The first anomaly refers to minor anomalies such as the first microcrack, the first cold solder joint, or scratches in the cells. These anomalies do not affect the picking and layout of the battery string during the layout process, and are relatively easy to repair during the stacking and rework process. The first microcrack in the first anomaly can refer to a microcrack with a width greater than or equal to a first percentage of the width of a single cell. The first cold solder joint in the first anomaly refers to a cold solder joint with an area greater than or equal to a second percentage of the area of ​​a single cell. The area of ​​a cold solder joint in a single cell is based on the detected shadow area of ​​the cold solder joint. The first percentage and the second percentage can be set according to the quality requirements of the battery string without specific limitations; for example, the first percentage can be 0.08%, and the second percentage can be 7.5%.

[0072] It should be noted that when determining a mild anomaly string, the number of cells exhibiting the first anomaly within the string is not specifically limited. That is, as long as the number of cells exhibiting the first anomaly in the string is greater than zero and less than or equal to a second preset value, regardless of the number of instances of the first anomaly within those cells, the first detection result is determined to be a mild anomaly string. If the number of cells exhibiting the first anomaly in the string is greater than the second preset value, the first detection result is determined to be a severe anomaly string.

[0073] It should be noted that a qualified battery string is one that meets the battery string quality standards. A qualified string may have minor flaws but will still function normally. The criteria for determining a qualified battery string in the first test result are as follows:

[0074] The number of cells with minor abnormalities in the battery string is less than or equal to a third preset value, and there is only one minor abnormality among the cells with minor abnormalities.

[0075] It should be noted that if the number of cells with minor abnormalities in a battery string is less than or equal to the third preset value, and there is only one minor abnormality among the cells, the performance of the battery string will not be affected, and it meets production standards. The damage to the cells caused by minor abnormalities is less than the damage caused by the first abnormality. Minor abnormalities can be second microcracks with a width less than a first percentage of the width of a single cell, second cold solder joints with an area less than a second percentage of the area of ​​a single cell, etc. The third preset value can be one, two, or three. It should be noted that if the number of cells with minor abnormalities in a battery string is greater than the third preset value but less than or equal to the second preset value, the first detection result is determined to be a slightly abnormal string. If the number of cells with minor abnormalities in a battery string is greater than the second preset value, the first detection result can be a severely abnormal string. If the number of cells with minor abnormalities in a battery string is less than or equal to the third preset value, but there is more than one minor abnormality among the cells, the first detection result is determined to be a slightly abnormal string.

[0076] The first detection result for determining the battery string in step 101 may also include:

[0077] Determine whether the number of battery cells in the battery string that have experienced the second anomaly is greater than or equal to a fourth preset value. If so, determine that the first detection result is a severely abnormal string.

[0078] The second type of anomaly includes severe anomalies such as cell breakage, short circuit, and failure to power on. Cells exhibiting this second type of anomaly are more difficult to repair and cannot be directly redesigned. The fourth preset value can be set according to actual needs; for example, the fourth preset value can be one or two.

[0079] In this embodiment of the invention, the number of battery cells with the first abnormality in the battery string whose first detection result is a slightly abnormal string is within this range, which can ensure the efficiency of stacking and avoid stacking and line blockage.

[0080] Reference Figure 4 After step 104, the following also includes:

[0081] Step 105: Perform EL testing on the photovoltaic stacked component, which includes the first preset number of battery strings, after layout and stacking, and determine the second test result of the photovoltaic stacked component.

[0082] Specifically, after the first preset value of battery strings on the first conveying mechanism 30 are conveyed to the layout machine, the layout machine will arrange the first preset value of battery strings, that is, lay the first preset value of battery strings flat on the glass and the encapsulating film. Then, a stacking process is performed. After the stacking process is completed, the output is a photovoltaic stacked component, which includes unlaminated glass, upper encapsulating film, arranged battery string group, lower encapsulating film, and back sheet.

[0083] EL testing of photovoltaic tandem modules can be performed using a second EL testing component. Figure 5 The process involves first-pass EL (Elastic Optical Detection) testing to determine the second inspection result of the photovoltaic (PV) tandem module. During testing, a first preset number of cell strings are energized, causing them to emit photons. The PV tandem module is then photographed to obtain a second EL image. This second EL image determines the second inspection result of the PV tandem module. The second inspection result is categorized into two types: qualified and unqualified. Qualified modules meet the PV tandem module quality standards, while unqualified modules do not.

[0084] Step 106: If the second test result is abnormal, transfer the photovoltaic stacked component to the stacking and reversion platform.

[0085] Specifically, if the second inspection result indicates an abnormality, the photovoltaic tandem module can be transferred to the re-inspection platform for re-inspection. It should be noted that the second EL inspection image of the photovoltaic tandem module is used as a reference during re-inspection. Repair is performed by identifying the corresponding defective location in the second EL inspection image, resulting in high repair efficiency and accuracy. Figure 5 If the EL test after the lamination process is NG (Not Good), meaning the second test result indicates an abnormal part, the laminate needs to be re-laminated. After the re-laminated repair is completed, the repaired photovoltaic laminate will undergo another EL test. If the re-laminated EL test is qualified, it will be transferred to the lamination process; if the re-laminated EL test is unqualified, the lamination process will continue. Additionally, if the second test result is qualified, i.e. Figure 5 When the EL test is OK after the intermediate stacking process, the photovoltaic stacked components will be transported to the lamination process.

[0086] In this embodiment of the invention, by performing EL testing on the photovoltaic stacked components including a first preset number of battery strings after layout and stacking, photovoltaic stacked components including battery strings with slightly abnormal first test results can be detected, and rework can be carried out through re-stack; in addition, performing EL testing after the layout and stacking process and before the lamination process facilitates the rework of abnormal photovoltaic stacked components.

[0087] Reference Figure 4 After step 101 and before step 105, the following is also included:

[0088] Step 107: If the first test result is a qualified string, the battery string is transferred to the second conveying mechanism.

[0089] Specifically, a qualified battery string is one that meets the battery string quality standards. For battery strings that pass the first inspection, the battery string can be transferred from the first EL detection component 10 to the second conveying mechanism 60 via the battery string transfer component 40. The conveying direction of the second conveying mechanism 60 is the same as that of the first conveying mechanism 30. The second conveying mechanism 60 can be a belt conveyor. The second conveying mechanism 60 is also located between the two string welding machine unloading belts 70. The first conveying mechanism 30, the second conveying mechanism 60, and the first EL detection component 10 can be arranged sequentially at intervals along the first direction.

[0090] Step 108: If the number of battery strings on the second conveying mechanism reaches the first preset value, then the first preset value of battery strings on the second conveying mechanism are conveyed to the typesetting machine.

[0091] Specifically, the number of battery strings on the second conveying mechanism 60 will gradually increase. When the second conveying mechanism 60 is a belt conveying mechanism, the belt in the second conveying mechanism 60 will not move if the number of battery strings on the second conveying mechanism 60 does not reach the first preset value. When the number of battery strings on the second conveying mechanism 60 reaches the first preset value, the belt in the second conveying mechanism 60 will move to transport the first preset value of battery strings on the second conveying mechanism 60 to the typesetting machine.

[0092] In this embodiment of the invention, battery strings with a first detection result of "qualified" are transferred to the second conveying mechanism 60. This prevents battery strings with a first detection result of "qualified" from being placed together with battery strings with a first detection result of "slightly abnormal". This avoids the subsequent layout machine from placing battery strings with a first detection result of "qualified" and battery strings with a first detection result of "slightly abnormal" on the same glass for layout, thereby reducing the number of photovoltaic stacked components with a second detection result of "abnormal", and thus ensuring the production progress of the battery module.

[0093] Reference Figure 6 The typesetting machine includes a third conveying mechanism 80 movable to a first position 81, a second position 82, and a third position 83, with the first position 81, the second position 82, and the third position 83 spaced apart along a first direction. The third conveying mechanism 80 can be a belt conveyor, and the conveying direction of the third conveying mechanism 80 can be consistent with the conveying direction of the first conveying mechanism 30.

[0094] Step 104, which involves conveying the first preset number of battery strings on the first conveying mechanism 30 to the typesetting machine, includes:

[0095] The first preset number of battery strings on the first conveying mechanism 30 are conveyed to the third conveying mechanism 80 located at the first position 81, so that the typesetting machine can type the battery strings on the third conveying mechanism 80 located at the first position 81.

[0096] Specifically, the third conveying mechanism 80 located at the first position 81 is used to receive the battery strings conveyed from the first conveying mechanism 30. After the first preset number of battery strings on the first conveying mechanism 30 are conveyed to the third conveying mechanism 80 located at the first position 81, the typesetting module in the typesetting machine will grab and type the first preset number of battery strings on the third conveying mechanism 80 located at the first position 81.

[0097] Step 108, which involves conveying the first preset number of battery strings on the second conveying mechanism 60 to the typesetting machine, includes:

[0098] The first preset number of battery strings on the second conveying mechanism 60 are conveyed to the third conveying mechanism 80 located at the second position 82; the third conveying mechanism 80 located at the second position 82 is moved to the third position 83 so that the typesetting machine can type the battery strings on the third conveying mechanism 80 located at the third position 83.

[0099] Specifically, the third conveying mechanism 80 located at the second position 82 is used to receive the battery strings conveyed from the second conveying mechanism 60. After the first preset number of battery strings on the second conveying mechanism 60 are conveyed to the third conveying mechanism 80 located at the second position 82, the third conveying mechanism 80 will move from the second position 82 to the third position 83, and the typesetting module in the typesetting machine will grab and type the first preset number of battery strings on the third conveying mechanism 80 located at the third position 83.

[0100] In this embodiment of the invention, by setting the third conveying mechanism 80 to be movable to different positions, battery strings with a first detection result of slight abnormality and battery strings with a first detection result of qualified can be arranged by the typesetting machine at different positions, thereby ensuring the production progress of battery strings with a first detection result of qualified.

[0101] Secondly, referring to Figure 6 and Figure 7This invention also discloses a battery module production apparatus, including a battery string conveying device for conveying the stringed battery strings output from a stringer to a typesetting machine. The battery string conveying device includes: a first EL detection component 10 for performing EL detection on the stringed battery strings to determine a first detection result; a return-to-string box 20 for placing battery strings whose first detection result is a severely abnormal string and which need to be returned; a first conveying mechanism 30 for placing battery strings whose first detection result is a slightly abnormal string, and for conveying a first preset value of battery strings on the first conveying mechanism 30 to the typesetting machine if the number of battery strings on the first conveying mechanism 30 reaches a first preset value, wherein the first preset value is the number of battery strings included in the battery module; and a battery string transfer component 40 for transferring battery strings whose first detection result is a slightly abnormal string to the first conveying mechanism 30, and for transferring battery strings whose first detection result is a severely abnormal string to the return-to-string box 20.

[0102] Specifically, the first EL detection component 10 includes two lower power-applying fixtures 11 spaced apart along the second direction. The lower power-applying fixtures 11 cooperate with the upper voltage block 43 in the upper battery string transfer component 40 to power the solder strips at both ends of the battery string, thereby performing EL detection. The first detection results, as described above, can be categorized into qualified strings, slightly abnormal strings, and severely abnormal strings. Once the number of battery strings in the return-to-string box 20 reaches a first preset value, a new return-to-string box 20 needs to be replaced, and the return-to-string box 20 containing the first preset value of battery strings is sent to the return-to-string platform for return-to-string processing.

[0103] The first conveying mechanism 30 is used as the conveying direction, and the horizontal direction perpendicular to the conveying direction of the first conveying mechanism 30 is used as the first direction. The first conveying mechanism 30 and the battery string return box 20 can be spaced apart along the first direction. The battery string transfer assembly 40 can pick up battery strings and can move along the first and second directions. The battery string conveying device may also include a first sliding assembly 50, which is used to drive the battery string transfer assembly 40 to move along the first and second directions. The first sliding assembly 50 includes a first slide rail 51 and a first slider 52 slidably connected to the first slide rail 51. The extension direction of the first slide rail 51, i.e., the sliding direction of the first slider 52, is consistent with the first direction. Two first slide rails 51 can be spaced apart. A second slide rail 53 is fastened to the first slider 52. The extension direction of the second slide rail 53 is consistent with the second direction. A second slider 54 is slidably connected to the second slide rail 53. The second slider 54 can slide along the extension direction of the second slide rail 53 and is connected to the battery string transfer assembly 40. Limiting blocks 55 are provided at both ends of the second slide rail 53. The limiting blocks 55 are used to limit the sliding stroke of the second slider 54 and prevent the second slider 54 from disengaging from the second slide rail 53. It should be noted that the first conveying mechanism 30, the return material box 20, and the first EL detection component 10 are located below the first slide rail 51.

[0104] The battery string transfer assembly 40 is used to transfer battery strings with a first detection result of slight abnormality from the first EL detection assembly 10 to the first conveying mechanism 30. The battery string transfer assembly 40 is also used to transfer battery strings from the first EL detection assembly 10 to the second conveying mechanism 60. The battery string transfer assembly 40 may include a telescopic component 41, a support rod 42 connected to the telescopic component 41, multiple battery cell suction components 44 disposed on the support rod 42, and two voltage-applying blocks 43 disposed at both ends of the support rod 42. The battery cell suction component 44 includes a connecting rod connected to the support rod 42 and a suction nozzle disposed at the end of the connecting rod opposite to the support rod 42, the suction nozzle being used to suction the battery cells from the battery string. The telescopic component 41 may be a telescopic cylinder, the housing of which is connected to the second slider 54, and the output shaft of which is connected to the support rod 42. Through the telescopic component 41, the downward movement of the support rod 42 and the battery cell suction components 44 to suction the battery cells from the battery string, and the upward movement of the battery cell suction components 44 after suctioning the battery cells from the battery string, are possible.

[0105] In this embodiment of the invention, battery strings with a first detection result of mild abnormality are directly conveyed to the typesetting machine via the first conveying mechanism 30, eliminating the need for reconnection and reducing redundant work for reconnection maintenance personnel. These battery strings with a first detection result of mild abnormality will subsequently be transferred to the stacking and rework machine for direct rework. The stacking and rework process is highly efficient due to the reference provided by EL detection images, thereby improving overall rework efficiency and increasing production capacity. Conversely, battery strings with a first detection result of severe abnormality are transferred to the reconnection box 20 for reconnection, ensuring the smooth operation of subsequent typesetting machines. The process of forming the battery pack proceeds normally and avoids transferring abnormal battery strings to the re-return line, which would cause blockages. In addition, for battery strings with a slight abnormality in the first detection result, since there is no need to re-return them, it can avoid the addition of defective cells due to errors or mistakes during manual inspection during re-return, thereby avoiding additional rework and ensuring rework efficiency. Furthermore, in this embodiment of the invention, the first EL detection component 10 can automatically perform detection and classification, which improves efficiency compared to manual selection and turnover of battery strings and avoids the addition of defective cells due to manual selection.

[0106] With the conveying direction of the first conveying mechanism 30 as the second direction, the return box 20 is located on one side of the first EL detection component 10 along the second direction. Specifically, in this embodiment of the invention, the return box 20 does not occupy additional space in the first direction, thus achieving reasonable use of space.

[0107] The battery string conveying device also includes a second conveying mechanism 60. The conveying direction of the second conveying mechanism 60 is consistent with the second direction. The second conveying mechanism 60 is used to place battery strings that have passed the first inspection. The second conveying mechanism 60 is also used to convey the first preset value of battery strings on the second conveying mechanism 60 to the typesetting machine if the number of battery strings on the second conveying mechanism 60 reaches the first preset value. Specifically, the second conveying mechanism 60 can be a belt conveyor mechanism. In this case, when the number of battery strings on the second conveying mechanism 60 reaches the first preset value, the belt in the second conveying mechanism 60 moves, conveying the first preset value of battery strings on the second conveying mechanism 60 to the typesetting machine.

[0108] In this embodiment of the invention, battery strings with a first detection result of "qualified" are transferred to the second conveying mechanism 60. This prevents battery strings with a first detection result of "qualified" from being mixed with battery strings with a first detection result of "slightly abnormal". This avoids the subsequent typesetting machine from placing battery strings with a first detection result of "qualified" and battery strings with a first detection result of "slightly abnormal" on the same glass for typesetting, thereby ensuring the production progress of battery strings with a first detection result of "qualified".

[0109] The battery string conveying equipment also includes a string welding machine unloading belt 70, which is used to receive the battery strings output by the string welding machine. The first direction is the horizontal direction perpendicular to the second direction. The string welding machine unloading belt 70, the first conveying mechanism 30, the second conveying mechanism 60 and the first EL detection component 10 are arranged at intervals along the first direction.

[0110] Specifically, two stringer unloading belts 70 can be provided. The stringed battery strings output by the stringer can be divided into two channels and transported to the two stringer unloading belts 70 respectively. The stringer unloading belts 70 can be belt conveyors. The two stringer unloading belts 70 are spaced apart along a first direction. The first conveying mechanism 30, the second conveying mechanism 60, the first EL detection component 10, and the return box 20 are located between the two stringer unloading belts 70. One stringer unloading belt 70, the first conveying mechanism 30, the second conveying mechanism 60, the first EL detection component 10, and the other stringer unloading belt 70 are arranged sequentially and spaced apart along the first direction. In this embodiment of the invention, the space can be rationally utilized by arranging the stringer unloading belts 70, the first conveying mechanism 30, the second conveying mechanism 60, and the first EL detection component 10 spaced apart along the first direction.

[0111] The typesetting machine includes a third conveying mechanism 80 movable to a first position 81, a second position 82, and a third position 83. The third conveying mechanism 80 is located on one side of the second conveying mechanism 60 along a second direction, and the first position 81, the second position 82, and the third position 83 are spaced apart along a first direction. The third conveying mechanism 80 at the first position 81 is used to receive battery strings conveyed from the first conveying mechanism 60, and the third conveying mechanism 80 at the second position 82 is used to receive battery strings conveyed from the second conveying mechanism 60. The typesetting machine is used to grab battery strings located on the third conveying mechanism 80 at the first position 81 or the third conveying mechanism 80 at the third position 83 for typesetting. Of course, the typesetting machine can also be used to grab battery strings located on the third conveying mechanism 80 at other positions.

[0112] Specifically, the battery string conveying device also includes a second sliding assembly 90, which drives the third conveying mechanism 80 to move back and forth between the first position 81, the second position 82, and the third position 83. The second sliding assembly 90 includes a third slide rail 91 and a third slider 92 slidably connected to the third slide rail 91. The extending direction of the third slide rail 91, i.e., the sliding direction of the third slider 92, is consistent with the first direction. The third slider 92 is securely connected to the third conveying mechanism 80. Two third slide rails 91 may be provided at intervals.

[0113] The third conveyor mechanism 80 is located above the third slide rail 91.

[0114] The third conveying mechanism 80 can be a belt conveyor, and its conveying direction can be the same as that of the first conveying mechanism 30. After the first preset number of battery strings on the first conveying mechanism 30 are conveyed to the third conveying mechanism 80 located at the first position 81, the typesetting module in the typesetting machine will grasp and type the first preset number of battery strings on the third conveying mechanism 80 located at the first position 81. After the first preset number of battery strings on the second conveying mechanism 60 are conveyed to the third conveying mechanism 80 located at the second position 82, the third conveying mechanism 80 will move from the second position 82 to the third position 83, and the typesetting module in the typesetting machine will grasp and type the first preset number of battery strings on the third conveying mechanism 80 located at the third position 83. In this embodiment of the invention, by setting the third conveying mechanism 80 to be movable to different positions, battery strings with a first detection result of slight abnormality and battery strings with a first detection result of qualified can be typed by the typesetting machine at different positions, thereby ensuring the production progress of battery strings with a first detection result of qualified.

[0115] The battery module production apparatus also includes a second EL detection component, a stacking and re-returning platform, and a photovoltaic stacking component conveying component. The second EL detection component is used to perform EL detection on the stacked photovoltaic stacking component including a first preset number of battery strings and determine the second detection result of the photovoltaic stacking component. The stacking and re-returning platform is used to place photovoltaic stacking components with abnormal second detection results that need to be stacked and re-returned. The photovoltaic stacking component conveying component is used to convey photovoltaic stacking components with abnormal second detection results to the stacking and re-returning platform.

[0116] Specifically, if the second detection result is abnormal, the photovoltaic stacked components can be transferred to the stacking and rework platform via the photovoltaic stacked component transport assembly for stacking and rework. The photovoltaic stacked component transport assembly can be a production line transport assembly. In this embodiment of the invention, by performing EL detection on the photovoltaic stacked components including a first preset number of cell strings after layout and stacking, photovoltaic stacked components including cell strings with slightly abnormal first detection results can be detected and reworked through stacking and rework; in addition, performing EL detection after the layout and stacking process and before the lamination process facilitates the rework of abnormal photovoltaic stacked components.

[0117] It should be noted that, in this document, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Unless otherwise specified, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes that element.

[0118] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above. The specific embodiments described above are merely illustrative and not restrictive. Those skilled in the art can make many other forms under the guidance of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. All of these forms are within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A method for conveying battery strings, applied to the conveying of battery strings in the production of battery modules, characterized in that, include: EL testing is performed on the wired battery string to determine the first test result of the battery string; If the first detection result indicates a severely abnormal string, the battery string is transferred to the return box. If the first detection result indicates a slight abnormality, the battery string is transferred to the first conveying mechanism; If the number of battery strings on the first conveying mechanism reaches a first preset value, then the first preset value of battery strings on the first conveying mechanism are conveyed to the typesetting machine, wherein the first preset value is the number of battery strings included in the battery assembly; The first detection result for determining the battery string includes: Determine whether the number of battery cells in the battery string that have experienced the first abnormality is greater than zero and less than or equal to a second preset value, wherein half of the total number of battery cells in the battery string is taken as the first value, and the second preset value is within the range of the first value minus two to the first value plus two. If so, then the first detection result is determined to be a mildly abnormal string; If not, then the first detection result is determined to be a severely abnormal string.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, After the step of conveying the first preset number of battery strings on the first conveying mechanism to the typesetting machine if the number of battery strings on the first conveying mechanism reaches a first preset value, the method further includes: EL testing is performed on the photovoltaic stacked component, which includes a first preset number of battery strings, to determine the second test result of the photovoltaic stacked component; If the second test result indicates an abnormality, the photovoltaic stacked component is transported to the stacking and rewinding platform.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, After the step of performing EL testing on the wired battery strings to determine the first test result of the battery strings, and before the step of performing EL testing on the stacked photovoltaic stack including a first preset number of battery strings to determine the second test result of the photovoltaic stack, the method further includes: If the first detection result is a qualified string, the battery string is transferred to the second conveying mechanism, wherein the conveying direction of the second conveying mechanism is the same as that of the first conveying mechanism. If the number of battery strings on the second conveying mechanism reaches a first preset value, then the first preset value of battery strings on the second conveying mechanism are conveyed to the typesetting machine.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The typesetting machine includes a third conveying mechanism that can be moved to a first position, a second position, and a third position, with a horizontal direction perpendicular to the conveying direction of the first conveying mechanism as the first direction, and the first position, the second position, and the third position being distributed at intervals along the first direction; The step of conveying the first preset number of battery strings on the first conveying mechanism to the typesetting machine includes: The first preset number of battery strings on the first conveying mechanism are conveyed to the third conveying mechanism located at the first position, so that the typesetting machine can type up the battery strings on the third conveying mechanism located at the first position. The step of conveying the first preset number of battery strings on the second conveying mechanism to the typesetting machine includes: The first preset number of battery strings on the second conveying mechanism are conveyed to the third conveying mechanism located at the second position; The third conveying mechanism located at the second position is moved to the third position so that the typesetting machine can type up the battery strings on the third conveying mechanism located at the third position.

5. A battery module production apparatus, characterized in that, Includes a battery string conveying device for conveying the stringed battery strings output from the stringer to the typesetting machine, the battery string conveying device comprising: The first EL detection component is used to perform EL detection on the wired battery string and determine the first detection result of the battery string. The battery string to be returned box is used to place the battery string whose first detection result is a severely abnormal string and needs to be returned; A first conveying mechanism is used to place battery strings whose first detection result is slightly abnormal, and is also used to convey a first preset value of battery strings on the first conveying mechanism to a typesetting machine if the number of battery strings on the first conveying mechanism reaches a first preset value, wherein the first preset value is the number of battery strings included in the battery assembly. A battery string transfer assembly is used to transfer battery strings with a slightly abnormal first detection result to the first conveying mechanism, and also to transfer battery strings with a severely abnormal first detection result to the return box. With the conveying direction of the first conveying mechanism as the second direction, the battery string conveying device further includes a second conveying mechanism. The conveying direction of the second conveying mechanism is consistent with the second direction. The second conveying mechanism is used to place battery strings whose first detection result is qualified. The second conveying mechanism is also used to convey the first preset value of battery strings on the second conveying mechanism to the typesetting machine if the number of battery strings on the second conveying mechanism reaches a first preset value.

6. The battery module production apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, The return box to be processed is located on one side of the first EL detection component along the second direction.

7. The battery module production apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, The battery string conveying equipment also includes a string welding machine unloading belt, which is used to receive the battery strings output by the string welding machine. The first direction is a horizontal direction perpendicular to the second direction. The string welding machine unloading belt, the first conveying mechanism, the second conveying mechanism and the first EL detection component are arranged at intervals along the first direction.

8. The battery module production apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that, The typesetting machine includes a third conveying mechanism movable to a first position, a second position, and a third position. The third conveying mechanism is located on one side of the second conveying mechanism along the second direction, and the first position, the second position, and the third position are distributed at intervals along the first direction. The third conveying mechanism located at the first position is used to receive the battery string conveyed from the first conveying mechanism, the third conveying mechanism located at the second position is used to receive the battery string conveyed from the second conveying mechanism, and the layout machine is used to grab the battery string on the third conveying mechanism located at the first position or the battery string on the third conveying mechanism located at the third position for layout.

9. The battery module production apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, It also includes a second EL detection component, a stacking platform, and a photovoltaic stack conveying component. The second EL detection component is used to perform EL detection on the stacked photovoltaic stack including a first preset number of battery strings and determine the second detection result of the photovoltaic stack. The stacking and re-returning platform is used to place photovoltaic stacked components whose second detection result is abnormal and which need to be stacked and re-returned. The photovoltaic stacked component conveying assembly is used to transfer the photovoltaic stacked components whose second detection result is abnormal to the stacking and re-returning platform.

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