Flexible conductor bending device for solar cell and control method

Abstract

The application discloses a flexible conductor bending device and control method of a solar cell piece. The flexible conductor bending device of the solar cell piece comprises a bending base, a suction cup, a first clamping block, a second clamping block, the horizontal moving directions of the first clamping block and the second clamping block are parallel and opposite, the movement processes of the first clamping block and the second clamping block at least have a waiting bending position, a bending position and a clamping position, the first clamping block is above the flexible conductor of the solar cell piece and the second clamping block is below the flexible conductor of the solar cell piece at the waiting bending position, the first clamping block and the second clamping block are staggered in the horizontal direction, the positions of the first clamping block and the second clamping block are the same in height and have a movable gap between the first clamping block and the second clamping block at the bending position, the first clamping block and the second clamping block clamp the flexible conductor at the clamping position, and a bending driving device is arranged. The flexible conductor bending device of the solar cell piece has the advantages of low cost, high bending efficiency, high yield and the like.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of solar cell manufacturing technology, and more specifically, to a flexible conductor bending device for solar cells and a control method for the flexible conductor bending device for solar cells. Background Technology

[0002] Silver paste screen printing is one of the methods to achieve metallization of crystalline silicon solar cells, but it is costly.

[0003] Electroplating can use cheaper metals such as nickel and copper to partially or completely replace silver, thus reducing the cost of solar cells. Before electroplating, the solar cells need to be pre-treated by attaching flexible conductors such as copper foil to the pre-set contact positions on the cells. After attaching the copper foil, it needs to be bent before being transferred to the electroplating equipment.

[0004] In related technologies, the bending of copper foil in solar cells is achieved using a five-axis robot. However, five-axis robots are costly, have many motion paths, and take a long time to operate, which limits the production cycle, results in low production efficiency, and makes it difficult to improve efficiency, thus failing to meet the needs of mass production. At the same time, during operation, the robot often pulls the copper foil on the silicon wafer contacts, causing the copper foil to loosen its adhesion to the contacts, affecting subsequent electroplating processes. In severe cases, this can lead to microcracks or even breakage of the solar cells, resulting in large fluctuations in the defect rate and affecting the stable operation of mass production. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention aims to at least solve one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, the present invention proposes a flexible conductor bending device for solar cells, which has the advantages of low cost, high bending efficiency, and high yield.

[0006] The present invention also proposes a control method for a flexible conductor bending device for solar cells.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, according to an embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention, a flexible conductor bending device for a solar cell is provided. The flexible conductor bending device for the solar cell includes: a bending base; a suction cup for adsorbing or releasing the solar cell, the suction cup being disposed on the bending base; a first clamping block, the first clamping block being horizontally movably disposed on the bending base; and a second clamping block, the second clamping block being vertically movable and horizontally movably disposed on the bending base. The movement process of the first clamping block and the second clamping block includes at least a bending position, a bending position, and a clamping position. The clamping position is such that, in the bending position, the first clamping block is located above the flexible conductor of the solar cell adsorbed by the suction cup, and the second clamping block is located below the flexible conductor of the solar cell adsorbed by the suction cup, with the first and second clamping blocks horizontally offset; in the bending position, the first and second clamping blocks are at the same height and have an movable gap between them; in the clamping position, the first and second clamping blocks clamp the flexible conductor; and a bending drive device is connected to the first and second clamping blocks respectively.

[0008] The flexible conductor bending device for solar cells according to embodiments of the present invention has advantages such as low cost, high bending efficiency, and high yield.

[0009] In addition, the flexible conductor bending device for the solar cell according to the above embodiments of the present invention may also have the following additional technical features:

[0010] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the flexible conductor bending device for the solar cell further includes: a base, the bending base being disposed on the base; a feeding conveyor belt assembly, the feeding conveyor belt assembly being disposed on the base and adapted to convey the solar cell to a position suitable for adsorption by the suction cup; and a discharging conveyor belt assembly, the discharging conveyor belt assembly being disposed on the base and adapted to convey the solar cell released by the suction cup to a subsequent process.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the bending base is movably disposed on the base, and the base is provided with a linear drive device that is pulsatorically connected to the bending base.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present invention, each of the feeding conveyor belt assembly and the unloading conveyor belt assembly includes: a bracket mounted on the base; a motor mounted on the bracket; a drive wheel drivenly connected to the motor shaft of the motor; a plurality of driven wheels rotatably mounted on the bracket; and a conveyor belt sleeved on the drive wheel and the plurality of driven wheels.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the present invention, each of the feeding conveyor belt assembly and the unloading conveyor belt assembly further includes: a dropping sensor, the dropping sensor being disposed on the support and located in the middle of the conveyor belt; and a positioning sensor, the positioning sensor being disposed on the support and located at the downstream end of the conveyor belt in the conveying direction.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the bending drive device includes: a first cylinder, which is disposed on the bending base and connected to the first clamping block and adapted to drive the first clamping block to move horizontally; a second vertical cylinder, which is disposed on the bending base; and a second horizontal cylinder, which is disposed on the second vertical cylinder and adapted to drive the second horizontal cylinder to move vertically, the second horizontal cylinder being connected to the second clamping block and adapted to drive the second clamping block to move horizontally.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the present invention, one end of the flexible conductor is connected to the solar cell and the other end extends beyond the edge of the solar cell.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first clamping block, the second clamping block and the suction cup are all two in number and are symmetrically arranged on the bending base.

[0017] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a control method for a flexible conductor bending device of a solar cell is provided, wherein the flexible conductor bending device of the solar cell has at least a suction cup, a first clamping block, and a second clamping block, and the control method includes the following steps:

[0018] Provide solar cells with flexible conductors attached;

[0019] The suction cup is used to attach solar cells;

[0020] Move the first clamp and the second clamp to the bending position, where the first clamp is above the flexible conductor of the solar cell adsorbed by the suction cup and the second clamp is below the flexible conductor of the solar cell adsorbed by the suction cup, and the first clamp and the second clamp are offset in the horizontal direction.

[0021] Move the first clamping block and the second clamping block to the bending position, where the first clamping block and the second clamping block are at the same height and there is an active gap between them;

[0022] The first clamp and the second clamp are moved to the clamping position, where the first clamp and the second clamp clamp the flexible conductor.

[0023] The control method for the flexible conductor bending device of the solar cell according to the present invention has the advantages of low cost, high bending efficiency, and high yield.

[0024] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the flexible conductor bending device for the solar cell further includes an feeding conveyor belt assembly, an unloading conveyor belt assembly, and a bending base, wherein the first clamping block, the second clamping block, and the suction cup are disposed on the bending base, and the control method further includes:

[0025] Before the step of using the suction cup to adsorb the solar cell, the solar cell is transported to a position suitable for adsorption by the suction cup using the feeding conveyor assembly;

[0026] After the step of moving the first clamping block and the second clamping block to the clamping position, the bending base is moved from the loading position adjacent to the loading conveyor belt assembly to the unloading position adjacent to the unloading conveyor belt assembly, and the first clamping block and the second clamping block maintain the clamping of the flexible conductor during the movement;

[0027] After the bending base moves to the unloading position, the first clamping block and the second clamping block move to the bending position, the suction cup releases the solar cell, and the unloading conveyor belt assembly transports the solar cell to the subsequent process.

[0028] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0029] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0030] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a flexible conductor bending device for a solar cell according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the first clamping block and the second clamping block are located at the bending position.

[0031] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a flexible conductor bending device for a solar cell according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the first clamping block and the second clamping block are located at the bending position.

[0032] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a flexible conductor bending device for a solar cell according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the first clamping block and the second clamping block are located at the bending position.

[0033] Figure 4This is a schematic diagram of the flexible conductor bending device for a solar cell according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the first clamping block and the second clamping block are located in the clamping position.

[0034] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the flexible conductor bending device for a solar cell according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the first clamping block and the second clamping block are located in the clamping position.

[0035] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a flexible conductor bending device for a solar cell according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the first clamping block and the second clamping block are located at the bending position.

[0036] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the feeding conveyor belt assembly of a flexible conductor bending device for solar cells according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 8 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of a flexible conductor bending device for a solar cell according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the solar cell and the flexible conductor of the flexible conductor bending device for the solar cell according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a solar cell and a flexible conductor in a flexible conductor bending device for a solar cell according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the flexible conductor is in a bent state.

[0040] Figure 11 This is a flowchart of a control method for a flexible conductor bending device for a solar cell according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Reference numerals: 1. Flexible conductor bending device for solar cells; 10. Bending base; 11. Elongated hole; 12. Suction cup bracket; 20. Suction cup; 21. Adsorption sensor; 22. Pressure regulating valve; 31. First clamping block; 32. Second clamping block; 40. Base; 50. Feeding conveyor belt assembly; 51. Bracket; 52. Motor; 53. Drive wheel; 54. Driven wheel; 55. Conveyor belt; 56. Dropping sensor; 57. Position sensor; 60. Unloading conveyor belt assembly; 71. First cylinder; 72. Second vertical cylinder; 73. Second horizontal cylinder; 74. Support plate; 80. Linear drive device; 2. Solar cell; 3. Flexible conductor. Detailed Implementation

[0042] This invention is based on the inventors' findings regarding the following facts and problems:

[0043] In related technologies, the bending of copper foil in solar cells is achieved by a five-axis robot. During operation, the robot must first clamp the copper foil before bending, which often results in the copper foil pulling on the silicon wafer contacts. This causes the copper foil to loosen its adhesion to the contacts, affecting subsequent electroplating processes. In severe cases, it can cause microcracks or even breakage of the solar cells, leading to large fluctuations in the defect rate and affecting the stable operation of mass production.

[0044] In addition, the transfer of the bent battery cells is also completed by this five-axis robot, which further increases the number of robot movement paths and extends the operation time.

[0045] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0046] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential," etc., indicating orientation or positional relationships, are based on the orientation or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings and are only for the convenience of describing the invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of the invention. Furthermore, features defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this invention, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0047] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0048] The flexible conductor bending device 1 for a solar cell according to an embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0049] like Figures 1-10As shown, the flexible conductor bending device 1 for solar cells according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a bending base 10, a suction cup 20, a first clamping block 31, a second clamping block 32, and a bending drive device.

[0050] A suction cup 20 is used to adsorb or release solar cell sheets 2, and the suction cup 20 is disposed on a bending base 10. A first clamping block 31 is horizontally movable on the bending base 10 (the vertical direction is shown by the arrow in the figure and is only for ease of description, not a limitation on the actual setting direction; those skilled in the art can determine the horizontal direction based on the vertical direction). A second clamping block 32 is vertically movable and horizontally movable on the bending base 10. The first clamping block 31 and the second clamping block 32 have at least a bending position, a bending position, and a clamping position. In the bending position, the first clamping block 31 is located above the flexible conductor 3 of the solar cell sheet 2 adsorbed by the suction cup 20, and the second clamping block 32 is located below the flexible conductor 3 of the solar cell sheet 2 adsorbed by the suction cup 20, and the first clamping block 31 and the second clamping block 32 are horizontally offset. In the bending position, the first clamping block 31 and the second clamping block 32 are at the same height and have an movable gap between them. In the clamping position, the first clamping block 31 and the second clamping block 32 clamp the flexible conductor 3. The bending drive device is connected to the first clamping block 31 and the second clamping block 32 respectively.

[0051] Those skilled in the art will understand that the first clamping block 31 and the second clamping block 32 move in opposite directions when moving from the bending position to the clamping position. The "movable gap" is a gap that allows the flexible conductor 3 to move within it without being completely clamped; that is, the movable gap is greater than the thickness of the flexible conductor 3. Those skilled in the art can adjust it according to actual needs; preferably, the movable gap is greater than or equal to 1 mm. The "bending position," "bending position," and "clamping position" are all positions relative to the bending base 10.

[0052] Specifically, after the solar cell 2 is attached to the flexible conductor 3, the solar cell 2 is attracted by the suction cup 20, and the first clamp 31 and the second clamp 32 move to the bending position (e.g., Figure 1 and Figure 2(As shown). Then, the second clamping block 32 rises. Since the first clamping block 31 is above the flexible conductor 3 and the second clamping block 32 is below the flexible conductor 3, as the second clamping block 32 gradually rises, the flexible conductor 3 is gradually bent by the first clamping block 31 and the second clamping block 32 until it moves to the bending position. At this point, the first clamping block 31 and the second clamping block 32 are at the same horizontal height, and because there is a gap between them, the flexible conductor 3 is not clamped tightly. Then, it moves to the clamping position, so that the first clamping block 31 and the second clamping block 32 clamp the flexible conductor 3, completing the bending and positioning of the flexible conductor 3. Finally, the first clamping block 31 and the second clamping block 32 move back to the bending position, and the suction cup 20 releases the currently adsorbed solar cell 2, preparing for the bending of the flexible conductor 3 of the next solar cell 2.

[0053] Unbent flexible conductor 3, such as Figure 9 As shown, the bent flexible conductor 3 is as follows Figure 10 As shown.

[0054] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the flexible conductor bending device 1 for solar cells uses a suction cup 20, a first clamping block 31, and a second clamping block 32 to position the solar cell 2 and bend the flexible conductor 3 attached to the solar cell 2 using the first clamping block 31 and the second clamping block 32. Compared with the five-axis robot arm in related technologies for bending flexible conductors, this method can reduce the cost of the flexible conductor bending device 1 for solar cells, reduce the movement path of the flexible conductor bending device 1 for solar cells, shorten the operation time of the flexible conductor bending device 1 for solar cells, thereby improving the bending efficiency of the flexible conductor of the solar cell and improving the production efficiency of solar cells.

[0055] Furthermore, by moving the first clamping block 31 and the second clamping block 32 sequentially to the bending position, the bending position, and the clamping position, the first clamping block 31 and the second clamping block 32 can first bend the flexible conductor 3 and then clamp and position it. Compared with the method of using a five-axis robot to bend the flexible conductor in related technologies, this avoids the operation of the five-axis robot clamping the flexible conductor before bending it, avoids pulling the contact points between the flexible conductor 3 and the solar cell 2 during the bending process, avoids loosening of the fit between the flexible conductor 3 and the solar cell 2, avoids microcracks or even breakage of the solar cell 2, improves the yield of solar cells, and achieves stable mass production of solar cells.

[0056] Therefore, the flexible conductor bending device 1 for solar cells according to the present invention has advantages such as low cost, high bending efficiency, and high yield.

[0057] The following description, with reference to the accompanying drawings, describes a flexible conductor bending device 1 for a solar cell according to a specific embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] In some specific embodiments of the present invention, such as Figures 1-10 As shown, the flexible conductor bending device 1 for solar cells according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a bending base 10, a suction cup 20, a first clamping block 31, a second clamping block 32, and a bending drive device.

[0059] Advantageously, such as Figures 1-6 As shown, the flexible conductor bending device 1 for solar cells also includes a base 40, a feeding conveyor belt assembly 50, and a discharging conveyor belt assembly 60. The bending base 10 is disposed on the base 40. The feeding conveyor belt assembly 50 is disposed on the base 40 and adapted to transport the solar cells 2 to a position suitable for suction cup 20 adsorption. The discharging conveyor belt assembly 60 is disposed on the base 40 and adapted to transport the solar cells 2 released from the suction cup 20 to subsequent processes. This allows the loading and unloading processes of the solar cell 2 to be completed by the loading conveyor belt assembly 50 and the unloading conveyor belt assembly 60, respectively. Moreover, the use of conveyor belts for transporting the solar cell 2 simplifies the movement path of the flexible conductor bending device 1, compared to the method in related technologies where loading and unloading are also completed by a five-axis robot. This improves the bending efficiency of the flexible conductor bending device 1. Furthermore, the loading conveyor belt assembly 50 and the unloading conveyor belt assembly 60 can complete the loading and unloading actions during the bending operation of the first clamping block 31 and the second clamping block 32, allowing multiple solar cells 2 to be simultaneously mounted on the flexible conductor bending device 1, further improving the bending efficiency of the flexible conductor bending device 1.

[0060] Specifically, such as Figures 1-6As shown, the bending base 10 is movably mounted on the base 40, and the base 40 is equipped with a linear drive device 80 that is pulsatorically connected to the bending base 10. Specifically, the bending base 10 is movable between a loading position near the loading conveyor belt assembly 50 and a unloading position near the unloading conveyor belt assembly 60. After the loading conveyor belt assembly 50 conveys the solar cell 2 to a position suitable for suction cup 20 to adsorb, the bending base 10 moves to the loading position, the suction cup 20 adsorbs the solar cell 2, and the first clamping block 31 and the second clamping block 32 complete the bending and clamping action. Then, the bending base 10 moves to the unloading position, the first clamping block 31 and the second clamping block 32 release the flexible conductor 3, and the suction cup 20 releases the solar cell 2, so that the solar cell 2 falls onto the unloading conveyor belt assembly 60, and is finally conveyed by the unloading conveyor belt assembly 60 to the subsequent process. This allows the solar cell 2 to move between the feeding conveyor belt assembly 50 and the unloading conveyor belt assembly 60 by moving the bending base 10, which facilitates the overall arrangement of the flexible conductor bending device 1 for the solar cell.

[0061] More specifically, such as Figure 7 As shown, each of the feeding conveyor belt assembly 50 and the unloading conveyor belt assembly 60 includes a bracket 51, a motor 52, a drive wheel 53, driven wheels 54, and a conveyor belt 55. The bracket 51 is mounted on the base 40. The motor 52 is mounted on the bracket 51. The drive wheel 53 is driven by the motor shaft of the motor 52. Multiple driven wheels 54 are rotatably mounted on the bracket 51. The conveyor belt 55 is fitted onto the drive wheel 53 and the multiple driven wheels 54. In this way, the drive wheel 53 can drive the conveyor belt 55 and the driven wheels 54 to rotate, realizing the conveying of solar cells 2 by the conveyor belt 55, and the multiple driven wheels 54 can facilitate the maintenance of tension on the conveyor belt 55.

[0062] Specifically, such as Figure 7 As shown, the motor shaft of motor 52 can be connected to a rotating shaft via a coupling. There can be two drive wheels 53, spaced axially on the rotating shaft. There can be two conveyor belts 55, each fitted onto one of the two drive wheels 53 for independent drive. Multiple driven wheels 54 can be divided into two groups and arranged along the paths of the two conveyor belts 55. This allows for the transport of solar cells 2 using two conveyor belts 55, improving the reliability of the transport and facilitating the placement of other structures, such as sensors, between the two conveyor belts 55.

[0063] More advantageously, such as Figure 7As shown, each of the feeding conveyor belt assembly 50 and the unloading conveyor belt assembly 60 also includes a dropping sensor 56 and a positioning sensor 57. The dropping sensor 56 is mounted on the support 51 and located in the middle of the conveyor belt 55. The positioning sensor 57 is mounted on the support and located at the downstream end of the conveyor belt 55 in the conveying direction. Specifically, the dropping sensor 56 and the positioning sensor 57 can be positioned between the two conveyor belts 55. This allows the dropping sensor 56 to detect whether the solar cell 2 has been placed on the conveyor belt 55, and the positioning sensor 57 to detect whether the solar cell 2 has been conveyed to the correct position, thereby facilitating the control of the flexible conductor bending device 1 for the solar cell.

[0064] Figure 8 A flexible conductor bending device 1 for a solar cell according to some examples of the present invention is shown. For example... Figure 9 As shown, the bending drive device includes a first cylinder 71, a second vertical cylinder 72, and a second horizontal cylinder 73. The first cylinder 71 is mounted on the bending base 10 and connected to the first clamping block 31, and is adapted to drive the first clamping block 31 to move horizontally. The second vertical cylinder 72 is mounted on the bending base 10. The second horizontal cylinder 73 is mounted on the second vertical cylinder 72, and the second vertical cylinder 72 is adapted to drive the second horizontal cylinder 73 to move vertically. The second horizontal cylinder 73 is connected to the second clamping block 32 and is adapted to drive the second clamping block 32 to move horizontally. In this way, the first cylinder 71 can drive the first clamping block 31 to move horizontally, and the second vertical cylinder 72 and the second horizontal cylinder 73 can drive the vertical and horizontal movements of the second clamping block 32 respectively, thereby realizing the driving of the movement of the first clamping block 31 and the second clamping block 32.

[0065] Specifically, such as Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, one end of the flexible conductor 3 is connected to the solar cell 2, and the other end extends beyond the edge of the solar cell 2. This facilitates the bending of the flexible conductor 3 by the first clamping block 31 and the second clamping block 32.

[0066] Advantageously, such as Figure 8 As shown, the suction cup 20 is equipped with an adsorption sensor 21, which is triggered when the solar cell 2 is adsorbed by the suction cup 20. This allows the adsorption sensor 21 to detect whether the suction cup 20 has properly adsorbed the solar cell 2, facilitating control of the suction cup 20 and improving the reliability of the adsorption of the solar cell 2.

[0067] Optionally, such as Figures 1-6 As shown, the first clamping block 31, the second clamping block 32, and the suction cup 20 are all arranged in pairs and symmetrically on the bending base 10. This allows the flexible conductor bending device 1 of the solar cell to perform bending operations on both solar cells 2 simultaneously, further improving the bending efficiency of the flexible conductor bending device 1 of the solar cell.

[0068] Specifically, the two first clamping blocks 31, the second clamping block 32, and the suction cup 20 share a bending base 10, and the two second clamping blocks 32 share a second vertical cylinder 72. This can improve the space utilization of the flexible conductor bending device 1 for solar cells and reduce the cost of the flexible conductor bending device 1 for solar cells.

[0069] Two second horizontal cylinders 73 are mounted on the same support plate 74, and the second vertical cylinder 72 drives the support plate 74 to move up and down.

[0070] The linear drive device 80 can be a linear motor. The solar cell 2 can be a silicon wafer, the flexible conductor 3 can be copper foil, the material dropping sensor 56 is a capacitive sensor, and the positioning sensor 57 is a proximity switch. The suction cup 20 is a pneumatic suction cup, preferably a Bernoulli suction cup connected to a pressure regulating valve 22 to adjust the suction force of the suction cup 20.

[0071] A suction cup bracket 12 is installed on the bending base 10 through an elongated hole 11. The first cylinder 71 and the suction cup 20 are installed on the suction cup bracket 12 to facilitate the adjustment of the position and height of the suction cup 20, the first cylinder 71 and the first clamping block 31.

[0072] The first cylinder 71 is connected to the first clamping block 31 via an adapter block, and the second horizontal cylinder 73 is connected to the second clamping block 32 via an adapter block.

[0073] The first cylinder 71, the second vertical cylinder 72, and the second horizontal cylinder 73 all have limiting devices to limit the maximum stroke.

[0074] The upper surfaces of the conveyor belts 55 of the feeding conveyor belt assembly 50 and the unloading conveyor belt assembly 60 are coplanar to facilitate the transport of the solar cell 2.

[0075] The following is for reference. Figures 1-10 The operation of the flexible conductor bending device 1 for a solar cell according to an embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0076] The feeding conveyor belt assembly 50 transports the solar cell 2 attached to the flexible conductor 3 to a position suitable for suction cup 20 to adsorb. After the position sensor 57 detects that the solar cell 2 has arrived, the suction cup 20 picks up the solar cell 2 from the feeding conveyor belt assembly 50. After the adsorption sensor 21 detects the solar cell 2, the first cylinder 71 operates to push the first clamping block 31 to the bending position. Then, the second vertical cylinder 72 operates to push the second horizontal cylinder 73 and the second clamping block 32 to the bending position to realize the bending process of the flexible conductor 3. Then, the second horizontal cylinder 73 operates to push the second clamping block 32 to the clamping position to fit with the first clamping block 31 to clamp the flexible conductor 3, thus completing the bending operation of the flexible conductor 3.

[0077] After the bending operation of the flexible conductor 3 is completed, the linear drive device 80 operates to transport the bending base 10 to the designated area of ​​the unloading conveyor belt assembly 60. It operates synchronously with the flexible conductor clamping device (not shown in the figure) of the next process and performs docking operation. After the flexible conductor clamping device of the next process clamps the upper end of the flexible conductor 3, the first cylinder 71 and the second horizontal cylinder 73 operate simultaneously to release the flexible conductor 3 and return it to the bending position. Then, the suction cup 20 releases the solar cell 2 to the unloading conveyor belt assembly 60. The linear drive device 80 runs in the opposite direction to transport the bending base 10 back to the loading conveyor belt assembly 50 and start the next operation cycle. The unloading conveyor belt assembly 60 transports the solar cell 2 to the next process.

[0078] The following describes a control method for a flexible conductor bending device for a solar cell according to an embodiment of the present invention. For example... Figure 11 As shown, the bending device for the flexible conductor of a solar cell according to an embodiment of the present invention has at least a suction cup, a first clamping block, and a second clamping block, and the control method includes the following steps:

[0079] Provide solar cells with flexible conductors attached;

[0080] The suction cup is used to attach solar cells;

[0081] Move the first clamping block and the second clamping block to the bending position, where the first clamping block is above the flexible conductor of the solar cell adsorbed by the suction cup and the second clamping block is below the flexible conductor of the solar cell adsorbed by the suction cup, and the first clamping block and the second clamping block are horizontally offset.

[0082] The first clamping block and the second clamping block are moved to a bending position, where the first clamping block and the second clamping block are at the same height and there is a gap between them.

[0083] The first clamp and the second clamp are moved to the clamping position, where the first clamp and the second clamp clamp the flexible conductor.

[0084] The control method for the flexible conductor bending device of the solar cell according to the present invention has the advantages of low cost, high bending efficiency, and high yield.

[0085] Advantageously, such as Figure 11 As shown, the flexible conductor bending device for the solar cell further includes a feeding conveyor belt assembly, a discharging conveyor belt assembly, and a bending base. The first clamping block, the second clamping block, and the suction cup are disposed on the bending base. The control method further includes:

[0086] Before the step of using the suction cup to adsorb the solar cell, the solar cell is transported to a position suitable for adsorption by the suction cup using the feeding conveyor assembly;

[0087] After the step of moving the first clamping block and the second clamping block to the clamping position, the bending base is moved from the loading position adjacent to the loading conveyor belt assembly to the unloading position adjacent to the unloading conveyor belt assembly, and the first clamping block and the second clamping block maintain the clamping of the flexible conductor during the movement;

[0088] After the bending base moves to the unloading position, the first clamping block and the second clamping block move to the bending position, the suction cup releases the solar cell, and the unloading conveyor belt assembly transports the solar cell to the subsequent process. This allows the loading and unloading processes of the solar cell to be completed by the loading and unloading conveyor belt assemblies respectively. Furthermore, the use of conveyor belts for transporting the solar cell simplifies the movement path of the flexible conductor bending device compared to related technologies where loading and unloading are also completed by a five-axis robot, thus improving the bending efficiency. Moreover, the loading and unloading actions can be completed by the loading and unloading conveyor belt assemblies during the bending operation of the first and second clamping blocks, allowing multiple solar cells to be simultaneously mounted on the flexible conductor bending device, further improving the bending efficiency. By keeping the first and second clamps holding the flexible conductor as the bending base moves from the loading position to the unloading position, the flexible conductor can be positioned using the first and second clamps, thus preventing deformation or damage to the flexible conductor itself or the connection between the flexible conductor and the solar cell.

[0089] Other configurations and operations of the flexible conductor bending device 1 for solar cells according to embodiments of the present invention are known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail here.

[0090] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0091] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A flexible conductor bending device for solar cells, characterized in that, include: Bending base; A suction cup, used to adsorb or release the solar cell, is disposed on the bending base; A first clamping block is horizontally movably mounted on the bending base; The second clamping block is mounted on the bending base and is movable vertically and horizontally. The movement of the first clamping block and the second clamping block includes at least a bending position, a bending position, and a clamping position. In the bending position, the first clamping block is located above the flexible conductor of the solar cell adsorbed by the suction cup, and the second clamping block is located below the flexible conductor of the solar cell adsorbed by the suction cup, and the first clamping block and the second clamping block are horizontally offset. In the bending position, the first clamping block and the second clamping block are at the same height and there is an movable gap between them. In the clamping position, the first clamping block and the second clamping block clamp the flexible conductor. A bending drive device is connected to the first clamping block and the second clamping block respectively, and the first clamping block and the second clamping block move in the order of the position to be bent, the bending position and the clamping position. The base, wherein the bent base is disposed on the base; A feeding conveyor belt assembly, which is disposed on the base and adapted to transport the solar cell to a position suitable for adsorption by the suction cup; A feeding conveyor belt assembly is disposed on the base and adapted to transport the solar cell released by the suction cup to a subsequent process. A bending base is movably disposed on the base. A linear drive device is provided on the base and is pulverically connected to the bending base. The bending drive device includes: a first cylinder, which is disposed on the bending base and connected to the first clamping block and adapted to drive the first clamping block to move horizontally. A second vertical cylinder is mounted on the bending base; a second horizontal cylinder is mounted on the second vertical cylinder and is adapted to drive the second horizontal cylinder to move vertically, the second horizontal cylinder is connected to the second clamping block and is adapted to drive the second clamping block to move horizontally.

2. The flexible conductor bending device for solar cells according to claim 1, characterized in that, Each of the feeding conveyor belt assembly and the unloading conveyor belt assembly includes: The bracket is mounted on the base; The motor is mounted on the bracket; A drive wheel, which is connected to the motor shaft of the motor via a transmission connection; A plurality of driven wheels are rotatably mounted on the bracket; A conveyor belt, which is fitted onto the drive wheel and the plurality of driven wheels.

3. The flexible conductor bending device for solar cells according to claim 2, characterized in that, Each of the feeding conveyor belt assembly and the unloading conveyor belt assembly further includes: A material drop sensor is mounted on the bracket and located in the middle of the conveyor belt; A positioning sensor is mounted on the bracket and located at the downstream end of the conveyor belt in the conveying direction.

4. The flexible conductor bending device for solar cells according to claim 1, characterized in that, One end of the flexible conductor is connected to the solar cell, and the other end extends beyond the edge of the solar cell.

5. The flexible conductor bending device for solar cells according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first clamping block, the second clamping block, and the suction cup are all in pairs and are symmetrically arranged on the bending base.

6. A control method for a flexible conductor bending device for a solar cell according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The control method includes the following steps: Provide solar cells with flexible conductors attached; The suction cup is used to attach solar cells; Move the first clamp and the second clamp to the bending position, where the first clamp is above the flexible conductor of the solar cell adsorbed by the suction cup and the second clamp is below the flexible conductor of the solar cell adsorbed by the suction cup, and the first clamp and the second clamp are offset in the horizontal direction. Move the first clamping block and the second clamping block to the bending position, where the first clamping block and the second clamping block are at the same height and there is an active gap between them; The first clamping block and the second clamping block are moved to the clamping position, where the first clamping block and the second clamping block clamp the flexible conductor. The flexible conductor bending device for the solar cell further includes an feeding conveyor belt assembly, a discharging conveyor belt assembly, and a bending base. The first clamping block, the second clamping block, and the suction cup are disposed on the bending base. The control method further includes: Before the step of using the suction cup to adsorb the solar cell, the solar cell is transported to a position suitable for adsorption by the suction cup using the feeding conveyor assembly; After the step of moving the first clamping block and the second clamping block to the clamping position, the bending base is moved from the loading position adjacent to the loading conveyor belt assembly to the unloading position adjacent to the unloading conveyor belt assembly, and the first clamping block and the second clamping block maintain the clamping of the flexible conductor during the movement; After the bending base moves to the unloading position, the first clamping block and the second clamping block move to the bending position, the suction cup releases the solar cell, and the unloading conveyor belt assembly transports the solar cell to the subsequent process.

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