Assembly apparatus, assembly device and assembly method

Abstract

The application discloses an assembling device, an assembling equipment and an assembling method. The assembling device comprises a first limiting piece, a second limiting piece and a third limiting piece. One side of the first limiting piece is provided with a first surface and a second surface. The second limiting piece is opposite to the first surface of the first limiting piece. The third limiting piece is opposite to the second surface of the first limiting piece. The first limiting piece moves towards or away from the second limiting piece and the third limiting piece under the action of a driving force. Through the position setting of the first limiting piece, the second limiting piece and the third limiting piece and the movable setting of the first limiting piece, the assembling precision of the assembling device can be improved, and the assembling error of the battery module after assembling can be reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of batteries, and more particularly to an assembly apparatus, assembly equipment, and assembly method. Background Technology

[0002] Energy conservation and emission reduction are key to the sustainable development of the automotive industry, and electric vehicles, due to their energy-saving and environmentally friendly advantages, have become an important component of this sustainable development. For electric vehicles, battery technology is a crucial factor in their development.

[0003] The battery contains battery modules, but the existing assembly equipment has low assembly precision when assembling the battery modules, resulting in assembly errors in the assembled battery modules. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of the above problems, this application provides an assembly apparatus, assembly equipment and assembly method, which can alleviate the problem of low assembly accuracy of the assembly apparatus for batteries.

[0005] In a first aspect, this application provides an assembly device, the assembly device comprising: a first limiting member, a second limiting member and a third limiting member, wherein the first limiting member has a first surface and a second surface on one side, the second limiting member is opposite to the first surface of the first limiting member, and the third limiting member is opposite to the second surface of the first limiting member; wherein, the first limiting member moves toward or away from the second limiting member and the third limiting member under the action of a driving force.

[0006] In the technical solution of this application embodiment, by setting the positions of the first limiting member, the second limiting member, and the third limiting member, and by setting the movement of the first limiting member, the assembly accuracy of the assembly device can be improved, thereby reducing the assembly error that exists after the battery module is assembled.

[0007] In some embodiments, the second limiting member includes a limiting portion and a supporting portion. The limiting portion is opposite to the first surface. One end of the supporting portion is connected to the limiting portion, and the other end extends toward the first limiting member. The limiting portion, the supporting portion, and the first limiting member cooperate to define a limiting recess. The third limiting member is located on the opening side of the limiting recess. The structure of the second limiting member enables the end plate to be supported without the aid of an external supporting structure.

[0008] In some embodiments, the assembly apparatus may further include: a limiting base and a first driving assembly. The limiting base is connected to the side of the bearing portion opposite to the limiting recess. The first driving assembly is connected to both the limiting base and the first limiting member. The first driving assembly drives the first limiting member to move towards or away from the limiting portion. By connecting the first limiting member and the second limiting member together through the limiting base and the first driving assembly, the integration of the assembly apparatus can be improved. Furthermore, by driving the first limiting member to move towards or away from the limiting portion through the first driving assembly, the movement speed of the first limiting member can be increased.

[0009] In some embodiments, the assembly device may further include: a fixing member disposed on the side of the third limiting member opposite to the first limiting member, wherein a portion of the surface of the fixing member near the third limiting member is connected to the third limiting member, and a portion of the surface is opposite to the limiting portion. The connection between the fixing member and the third limiting member enables the third limiting member to be fixed and its structural strength increased. Furthermore, the fact that a portion of the surface of the fixing member near the third limiting member is opposite to the limiting portion allows the second limiting member to abut against the fixing member, thereby limiting the position of the second limiting member.

[0010] In some embodiments, the assembly apparatus may further include a second driving component connected to the limiting base, the second driving component driving the limiting base to move toward or away from the fixing member. By driving the second driving component, the dimensions between the first and third limiting members, and between the second and third limiting members, can be adjusted, thereby enabling the assembly apparatus to accommodate battery modules with different size requirements; simultaneously, the second driving component can drive the limiting base to move toward or away from the fixing member, thereby increasing the movement rate of the limiting base.

[0011] In some embodiments, the assembly apparatus may further include a fourth limiting member and a fifth limiting member. The fourth limiting member is disposed on one side of the support portion, with a portion of the fourth limiting member located on the side of the support portion closer to the opening. The fifth limiting member is disposed on the other side of the support portion, with a portion of the fifth limiting member located on the side of the support portion closer to the opening. The fourth and fifth limiting members allow the assembly apparatus to define the positions of both sides of the battery, resulting in better battery assembly.

[0012] In some embodiments, the assembly apparatus may further include: a third driving component connected to the fourth limiting member, the third driving component driving the fourth limiting member to move toward or away from the fifth limiting member. By driving the fourth limiting member toward or away from the fifth limiting member using the third driving component, the distance between the fourth and fifth limiting members can be adjusted according to the specific dimensions between the two sides of the battery, and the third driving component can increase the moving speed of the fourth limiting member.

[0013] Secondly, this application provides an assembly device, comprising: a turntable and a connecting plate. The turntable rotates under the action of a driving force, and the connecting plate is connected to a third surface of the turntable. At least one assembly device, as described in any one of the above descriptions, is disposed on the side of the connecting plate opposite to the third surface. When multiple assembly devices are disposed on the connecting plate, the multiple assembly devices on the connecting plate are configured to perform the same assembly action. Firstly, the rotation of the turntable allows for the sequential assembly of various structural components that make up a battery module to achieve battery module assembly. Secondly, the multiple assembly devices on the connecting plate are configured to perform the same assembly action, enabling the simultaneous assembly of multiple battery modules, thereby improving assembly efficiency. Thirdly, because the assembly device is a rotating design, the area occupied by the assembly device can be reduced.

[0014] In some embodiments, the assembly device may further include: a base disposed on the fourth surface side of the turntable, the base having a rotating shaft extending toward the center of the fourth surface of the turntable, the rotating shaft being connected to the turntable and driving the turntable to rotate; wherein the fourth surface is opposite to the third surface. The base can support the turntable and provide rotational power to the turntable.

[0015] In some embodiments, the assembly device may further include: a clamping structure connected to the base, the clamping structure extending toward the third surface side of the turntable, and a pressure-applying component bent at the third surface side of the clamping structure opposite to the assembly device, a portion of the pressure-applying component moving toward or away from the assembly device under the action of a driving force. The downward pressure of the clamping structure makes the battery module assembly more compact.

[0016] In some embodiments, the assembly equipment may further include: a detection structure connected to the base, the detection structure extending toward the third surface side of the turntable, and a first detection element disposed on the third surface side of the turntable, the first detection element being opposite to the assembly area of ​​the assembly device. The detection structure can detect whether the assembly area has a specified structural component to be assembled, thereby reducing rework caused by missing structural components.

[0017] In some embodiments, the assembly equipment may further include: a first connector and multiple material handling devices, each of which is connected to the first connector. Different material handling devices are configured to provide different materials to the assembly equipment. The multiple material handling devices can pick up different structural components for the assembly equipment, thereby improving the assembly efficiency of the assembly equipment.

[0018] In some embodiments, the material handling device includes a second connector and a material handling plate. The second connector is connected to the first connector, and a connecting recess is recessed on the side of the second connector away from the first connector. The material handling plate is slidably connected to two opposing inner walls of the connecting recess, and a suction cup is provided on the surface of the material handling plate away from the second connector. The suction cup can be used to pick up the structural component to be assembled by adsorption. Once the component is picked up to the assembly area, it can be released, which is both convenient and quick.

[0019] In some embodiments, the material handling device further includes a limiting member and an elastic member. The limiting member is connected to a second connecting member at one end of the material handling plate, and the elastic member is disposed between the limiting member and the material handling plate, connecting the limiting member and the material handling plate respectively. The elastic member provides a buffering force to the material handling plate so that when the structural component on the suction cup and the assembly area are not fully aligned, the structural component on the suction cup can have a slight displacement under the limiting action of the first limiting member, the second limiting member, and the third limiting member, thereby allowing the structural component on the suction cup to be aligned with the assembly area.

[0020] In some embodiments, the material-grabbing device further includes: a first rotating member and a second rotating member, one end of the first rotating member and one end of the second rotating member being respectively connected to the side of the second connecting member, the other ends of the first rotating member and the second rotating member switching between a mating state and a separating state, and the mating position of the first rotating member and the second rotating member being on the same plane as the suction surface of the suction cup. By having the mating position of the first rotating member and the second rotating member on the same plane as the suction surface of the suction cup, after the suction cup adsorbs the structural member, the first rotating member and the second rotating member rotate to a mating state and clamp the film, such as release paper, of the structural member adsorbed on the suction cup facing the suction cup side surface. When the suction cup releases the adsorbed structural member, the first rotating member and the second rotating member remain in a mating state to carry away the film as the material-grabbing device moves away from the released structural member.

[0021] In some embodiments, the material handling device further includes a second detection element disposed within the connecting recess, and the material handling plate having a through hole opposite to the second detection element. The second detection element allows for the determination of whether the suction cup has adsorbed structural components (e.g., release paper), thereby reducing the likelihood of rework due to unremoved release paper.

[0022] In some embodiments, the material handling device includes: a first picking claw, a second picking claw, and a third detection element. The first picking claw and the second picking claw are opposite to each other, and the first picking claw and / or the second picking claw move towards or away from each other under the action of a driving force. The third detection element is positioned relative to the first picking claw and the second picking claw. The first picking claw and the second picking claw can pick up the structural component to be assembled by gripping, while the third detection element can detect whether the structural component to be assembled has been gripped, which can reduce the probability of missing structural components in the assembled structure (e.g., battery module).

[0023] Thirdly, this application provides an assembly method applied to the assembly apparatus described in any one of the above descriptions. The assembly method includes: placing a first structural member between a second limiting member and a first limiting member; driving the first limiting member to move so that the first structural member abuts against the second limiting member; placing a second structural member on the first structural member so that the second structural member abuts against a second surface of the first limiting member; placing a third structural member on the side of the second structural member facing away from the first limiting member; and driving the first limiting member to move so that the third structural member abuts against a third limiting member. The battery module assembled using this method can better control the distance between the second end face of the battery cell and the surface of the protective cover facing away from the second end face; control the distance between the first end face of the battery cell and the surface of the protective cover facing the first end face; and control the distance between the surface of the end plate away from the first end face and the second end face of the battery cell. This reduces the probability of assembly errors in the assembled battery module.

[0024] The above description is only an overview of the technical solution of this application. In order to better understand the technical means of this application and to implement it in accordance with the contents of the specification, and to make the above and other objects, features and advantages of this application more obvious and understandable, the following are specific embodiments of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Various other advantages and benefits will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the detailed description of the preferred embodiments below. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this application. Furthermore, throughout the drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same elements. In the drawings:

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the vehicle structure according to some embodiments of this application;

[0027] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the exploded structure of a battery according to some embodiments of this application;

[0028] Figure 3 This is a partial structural diagram of a battery module according to some embodiments of this application;

[0029] Figure 4 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of a battery module according to some embodiments of this application;

[0030] Figure 5 This is a partial exploded view of the battery module in some embodiments of this application;

[0031] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly apparatus according to some embodiments of this application;

[0032] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly apparatus of some embodiments of this application during the assembly of a battery module;

[0033] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly apparatus according to some embodiments of this application;

[0034] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the assembly apparatus for assembling the end plate and protective cover in a battery module according to some embodiments of this application;

[0035] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly apparatus for assembling the end plate and protective cover in a battery module according to some embodiments of this application;

[0036] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly apparatus of some embodiments of this application when assembling the end plate, protective cover and battery cell in the battery module;

[0037] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly equipment according to some embodiments of this application;

[0038] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the assembly equipment according to some embodiments of this application when assembling a battery module;

[0039] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first connector and the material handling device of the assembly equipment according to some embodiments of this application;

[0040] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the material handling device in the assembly equipment of some embodiments of this application;

[0041] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the material handling device in the assembly equipment of some embodiments of this application;

[0042] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the material handling device in the assembly equipment of some embodiments of this application when it picks up the protective cover in the battery module;

[0043] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the material handling device in the assembly equipment of some embodiments of this application when it picks up the protective cover in the battery module;

[0044] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of the material handling device in the assembly equipment of other embodiments of this application;

[0045] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the material handling device in the assembly equipment of other embodiments of this application when it picks up the end plate in the battery module.

[0046] The reference numerals in the detailed embodiments are as follows:

[0047] 100-Vehicle, 110-Battery, 111-Box, 1111-First Part, 1112-Second Part, 112-Battery Module, 1121-End Plate, 1122-Protective Cover, 11221-Release Paper, 1123-Battery Cell, 1123A-First End Face, 1123B-Second End Face, 120-Controller, 130-Motor;

[0048] 200 - Assembly device; 210 - First limiting member; 210A - Second reference surface; 220 - Second limiting member; 220A - First reference surface; 221 - Limiting part; 222 - Bearing part; 230 - Third limiting member; 230A - Third reference surface; 240 - Limiting base; 250 - First driving assembly; 260 - Fixing member; 270 - Second driving assembly; 280 - Fourth limiting member; 290 - Fifth limiting member; 300 - Third driving assembly;

[0049] 1000 - Assembly equipment, 310 - Turntable, 320 - Connecting plate, 330 - Base, 340 - Pressing structure, 341 - Pressure plate, 350 - Detection structure, 351 - First detection component, 360 - First connecting component, 371 - Second connecting component, 372 - Picking plate, 373 - Suction cup, 374 - Limiting component, 375 - Elastic component, 376 - First rotating component, 377 - Second rotating component, 378 - First picking claw, 379 - Second picking claw, 380 - Third detection component. Detailed Implementation

[0050] The embodiments of the technical solution of this application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. These embodiments are only used to more clearly illustrate the technical solution of this application and are therefore merely examples, and should not be used to limit the scope of protection of this application.

[0051] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains; the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the application; the terms “comprising” and “having”, and any variations thereof, in the specification, claims, and foregoing description of the drawings are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0052] In the description of the embodiments of this application, technical terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish different objects and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number, specific order, or primary and secondary relationship of the indicated technical features. In the description of the embodiments of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly defined.

[0053] In this document, the term "embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0054] In the description of the embodiments in this application, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent three cases: A exists, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists. In addition, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the related objects before and after it have an "or" relationship.

[0055] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the term "multiple" refers to two or more (including two), similarly, "multiple sets" refers to two or more (including two sets), and "multiple pieces" refers to two or more (including two pieces).

[0056] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the technical 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" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of this application and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this application.

[0057] In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, technical terms such as "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; 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; they can refer to the communication of internal components of two elements or the interaction between two elements. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this application can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0058] Currently, judging from market trends, the application of power batteries is becoming increasingly widespread. Power batteries are not only used in energy storage systems such as hydropower, thermal power, wind power, and solar power plants, but also extensively used in electric vehicles such as electric bicycles, electric motorcycles, and electric cars, as well as in military equipment and aerospace. With the continuous expansion of power battery applications, market demand is also constantly increasing.

[0059] The inventors have noticed that a battery module is provided in the battery, and that the existing assembly device has low assembly accuracy when assembling the battery module, resulting in assembly errors in the assembled battery module.

[0060] To alleviate the problem of assembly errors in battery modules caused by the low assembly precision of existing assembly devices, the applicant has discovered that assembly precision can be improved by limiting the position of each structural component that makes up the battery module during assembly.

[0061] Based on the above considerations, in order to solve the problem of assembly errors in the assembled battery modules caused by the low assembly accuracy of existing assembly devices, the inventors have conducted in-depth research and designed an assembly device with three limiting members. Each pair of limiting members limits the position of at least one structural component that makes up the battery module, thereby improving the assembly accuracy.

[0062] The battery module and battery in this application can serve as the power system for an electrical device, which can be, but is not limited to, mobile phones, tablets, laptops, electric toys, power tools, electric vehicles, electric cars, ships, spacecraft, etc. Electric toys can include stationary or mobile electric toys, such as game consoles, electric car toys, electric ship toys, and electric airplane toys, etc. Spacecraft can include airplanes, rockets, space shuttles, and spacecraft, etc.

[0063] For ease of explanation, the following embodiments use a vehicle 100 as an example to illustrate the electrical device.

[0064] Please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a vehicle 100 provided in some embodiments of this application. The vehicle 100 can be a gasoline-powered vehicle, a natural gas-powered vehicle, or a new energy vehicle. The new energy vehicle can be a pure electric vehicle, a hybrid electric vehicle, or a range-extended electric vehicle, etc. A battery 110 is disposed inside the vehicle 100, and the battery 110 can be located at the bottom, front, or rear of the vehicle 100. The battery 110 can be used to power the vehicle 100; for example, the battery 110 can serve as the operating power source for the vehicle 100. The vehicle 100 may also include a controller 120 and a motor 130. The controller 120 is used to control the battery 110 to supply power to the motor 130, for example, to meet the power needs of the vehicle 100 during starting, navigation, and driving.

[0065] In some embodiments of this application, the battery 110 can not only serve as the operating power source for the vehicle 100, but also as the driving power source for the vehicle 100, replacing or partially replacing fuel or natural gas to provide driving power for the vehicle 100.

[0066] Please refer to Figure 2 , Figure 2 This is an exploded structural diagram of a battery 110 provided in some embodiments of this application. The battery 110 includes a housing 111 and a battery module 112, with the battery module 112 housed within the housing 111. The housing 111 provides a space for the battery module 112, and the housing 111 can have various structures. In some embodiments, the housing 111 may include a first portion 1111 and a second portion 1112, which overlap each other, and together define a space for accommodating the battery module 112. The second part 1112 can be a hollow structure with one end open, and the first part 1111 can be a plate-like structure. The first part 1111 covers the open side of the second part 1112 so that the first part 1111 and the second part 1112 together define the accommodating space. Alternatively, the first part 1111 and the second part 1112 can both be hollow structures with one side open, and the open side of the first part 1111 covers the open side of the second part 1112. Of course, the box 111 formed by the first part 1111 and the second part 1112 can be of various shapes, such as a cylinder, a cuboid, etc.

[0067] When multiple battery modules 112 are installed inside the housing 111, the multiple battery modules 112 can be directly connected in series, parallel, or mixed together, and then the whole assembly of the multiple battery modules 112 is housed inside the housing 111. The battery 110 may also include other structures, for example, the battery 110 may also include a busbar component for realizing the electrical connection between the multiple battery modules 112.

[0068] Please refer to Figures 3-5 , Figure 3 This is a partial structural diagram of the battery module 112 provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 4 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the battery module 112 provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 5 This is a partial exploded view of the battery module 112 provided in some embodiments of this application. For example... Figure 3 The battery module 112 includes an end plate 1121, a protective cover 1122, multiple battery cells 1123, and other functional components.

[0069] An end plate 1121 is disposed on one side of the battery cell 1123 to separate the battery cell 1123 from the inner wall of the housing 111. The shape of the end plate 1121 can be adapted to the shape of the battery cell 1123 to fit the battery cell 1123. Optionally, the end plate 1121 can be made of a material with a certain hardness and strength (such as aluminum alloy), so that the end plate 1121 is less prone to deformation under compression and impact, enabling the battery module 112 to have higher structural strength and improved safety performance. Of course, the battery module 112 can also be provided with a bottom plate, a cover plate, and side plates, which together form a cavity for accommodating the battery cell 1123.

[0070] A protective cover 1122 is disposed at one end of the battery cell 1123. The protective cover 1122 is made of insulating material to prevent the casing 111 from becoming electrified. Alternatively, the protective cover 1122 can be L-shaped, with one part located at one end of the battery cell 1123 and the other part located between the battery cell 1123 and the end plate 1121 to prevent the end plate 1121 from becoming electrified. The protective cover 1122 can be made of materials such as plastic or rubber.

[0071] The battery cell 1123 contains a cell assembly, which is mainly formed by winding or stacking positive and negative electrode sheets, and typically a separator is provided between the positive and negative electrode sheets. The portions of the positive and negative electrode sheets containing active material constitute the main body of the cell assembly, while the portions of the positive and negative electrode sheets without active material each constitute a tab. The positive and negative tabs can be located together at one end of the main body or at opposite ends of the main body. During the charging and discharging process of the battery cell 1123, the positive and negative active materials react with the electrolyte, and the tabs connect to the electrode terminals to form a current loop. The battery cell 1123 may be connected to electrode terminals for inputting or outputting electrical energy from the cell assembly.

[0072] The battery cell 1123 can be a secondary battery or a primary battery; it can also be a lithium-sulfur battery, a sodium-ion battery, or a magnesium-ion battery, but is not limited to these. The battery cell 1123 can be cylindrical, flat, cuboid, or other shapes.

[0073] In some embodiments, the battery module 112 may also be provided with a pressure relief mechanism for releasing internal pressure when the internal pressure or temperature of the battery module 112 reaches a threshold.

[0074] The technical solution provided in this application controls three dimensions during the assembly of the battery module 112, referring to... Figure 4The distances are as follows: d1 is the distance between the second end face 1123B of the control end plate 1121 and the surface of the protective cover 1122 facing away from the second end face 1123B; d2 is the distance between the surface of the control end plate 1121 near the second end face 1123B and the surface of the protective cover 1122 facing away from the second end face 1123B; and d3 is the distance between the surface of the control end plate 1121 away from the first end face 1123A and the second end face 1123B of the battery cell 1123. The first end face 1123A and the second end face 1123B are the two end faces at both ends of the battery cell 1123. By controlling these three dimensions, the positional accuracy of each component in the assembled battery module 112 can be effectively guaranteed. However, existing assembly devices cannot achieve the control of these dimensions, resulting in assembly errors in the assembled battery module 112.

[0075] According to some embodiments of this application, refer to Figure 6 Please refer to further details. Figures 7 to 11 , Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly apparatus provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly apparatus provided in some embodiments of this application during the assembly of a battery module. Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly apparatus provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly apparatus provided in some embodiments of this application during the assembly of the end plate and protective cover in a battery module. Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly apparatus provided in some embodiments of the present application during the assembly of the end plate and protective cover in a battery module. Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly apparatus provided in some embodiments of this application when assembling the end plate, protective cover and battery cell in a battery module.

[0076] This application provides an assembly apparatus 200. The assembly apparatus 200 includes: a first limiting member 210, a second limiting member 220, and a third limiting member 230. The first limiting member 210 has a first surface and a second surface on one side. The second limiting member 220 is opposite to the first surface of the first limiting member 210, and the third limiting member 230 is opposite to the second surface of the first limiting member 210. The first limiting member 210 moves towards or away from the second limiting member 220 and the third limiting member 230 under the action of a driving force.

[0077] The first and second surfaces of the first limiting member 210 can be in the same plane, or they can be two surfaces with an included angle, depending on the specific situation. For example: Figure 6 As shown, the first surface and the second surface of the first limiting member 210 are in the same plane, but the second surface is provided with a protruding structure that is adapted to the structure at the corresponding position on the battery module 112.

[0078] The first surface and the second surface are located on the same side of the first limiting member 210, the second limiting member 220 is opposite to the first surface of the first limiting member 210, and the third limiting member 230 is opposite to the second surface of the first limiting member 210, that is, the second limiting member 220 and the third limiting member 230 are located on the same side of the first limiting member 210.

[0079] The first reference surface 220A of the second limiting member 220 opposite to the first surface and the third reference surface 230A of the third limiting member 230 opposite to the second surface may or may not be in the same plane, depending on the specific circumstances. For example: Figure 6 As shown, the first surface and the second surface of the first limiting member 210 are in the same plane, while the first reference surface 220A of the second limiting member 220 is closer to the first limiting member 210 than the third reference surface 230A of the third limiting member 230, and the first reference surface 220A protrudes from the third reference surface 230A by a distance d3.

[0080] The first limiting member 210 moves toward or away from the second limiting member 220 and the third limiting member 230 under the action of the driving force, which can be provided by human power or by electricity / mechanical means.

[0081] In one embodiment, the assembly device 200 is placed on a flat surface, which serves as a bearing surface to support the end plate 1121. (Refer to...) Figures 3 to 7 When assembling the battery module 112, the surface of the second limiting member 220 facing the first limiting member 210 is the first reference surface 220A. An end plate 1121 is placed on the bearing plane between the second limiting member 220 and the first limiting member 210, driving the first limiting member 210 to move so that the end plate 1121 abuts against the first reference surface 220A. The surface of the first limiting member 210 facing the second limiting member 220 is the second reference surface 210A. A protective cover 1122 is placed on the end plate 1121, and the protective cover 1122 abuts against the second reference surface 220A. The third reference surface 230A is the surface of the third limiting member 230 facing the first limiting member 210. A battery cell 1123 is placed on the side of the protective cover 1122 away from the first limiting member 210. The first limiting member 210 is moved so that the battery cell 1123 abuts against the third reference surface 230A. Then, pressure is applied to the side of the battery cell 1123 away from the end plate 1121, causing the battery cell 1123, the protective cover 1122, and the end plate 1121 to fit together. At this point, the battery module 112 is assembled. The first limiting member 210 is then moved away from the second limiting member 220 and the third limiting member 230 to remove the assembled battery module 112. The distance by which the first reference surface 220A protrudes from the third reference surface 230A is d3.

[0082] In this embodiment, by setting the positions of the first limiting member 210, the second limiting member 220, and the third limiting member 230, and by setting the movement of the first limiting member 210, the assembly accuracy of the assembly device 200 can be improved, thereby reducing the assembly error that exists after the battery module 112 is assembled.

[0083] It is understandable that the assembly device 200 can sequentially stack and assemble the end plate 1121, the protective cover 1122 and the battery cell 1123 without having to replace the assembly device 200 during the stacking process, thereby preventing assembly errors caused by different control dimensions due to replacement.

[0084] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, reference is made to... Figure 6 The second limiting member 220 includes a limiting part 221 and a supporting part 222. The limiting part 221 is opposite to the first surface. One end of the supporting part 222 is connected to the limiting part 221, and the other end extends in the direction of the first limiting member 210. The limiting part 221, the supporting part 222 and the first limiting member 210 cooperate to define a limiting recess. The third limiting member 230 is located on the opening side of the limiting recess.

[0085] After the limiting part 221 and the supporting part 222 are connected, they form an L-shaped structure. The first surface of the first limiting member 210 is opposite to the limiting part 221, and the other end of the supporting part 222 extends toward the first limiting member 210. Thus, the limiting part 221, the supporting part 222 and the first limiting member 210 cooperate to form a U-shaped structure. Therefore, when assembling the battery module 112, the end plate 1121 can be placed on the supporting part 222, so that no other external supporting structure is needed.

[0086] The limiting part 221 can be integrally formed with the supporting part 222 to improve the structural strength of the second limiting member 220.

[0087] In this embodiment, the structure of the second limiting member 220 enables the end plate 1121 to be supported without the aid of an external supporting structure.

[0088] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, reference is made to... Figure 6 The assembly device 200 may further include: a limiting base 240 and a first driving component 250. The limiting base 240 is connected to the side of the bearing portion 222 away from the limiting recess. The first driving component 250 is connected to the limiting base 240 and the first limiting member 210 respectively. The first driving component 250 drives the first limiting member 210 to move towards or away from the limiting portion 221.

[0089] The limiting base 240 is connected to the side of the bearing portion 222 opposite to the limiting recess. The first drive assembly 250 is connected to the limiting base 240 and the first limiting member 210 respectively. That is, the first limiting member 210 and the second limiting member 220 are connected together through the limiting base 240 and the first drive assembly 250. The first drive assembly 250 can be a motor assembly, a cylinder assembly, or other electric / mechanical drive methods, which are not specifically limited here.

[0090] In this embodiment, the first limiting member 210 and the second limiting member 220 are connected together by the limiting base 240 and the first driving component 250, thereby improving the integration of the assembly device 200; while the first driving component 250 drives the first limiting member 210 to move closer to or further away from the limiting part 221, thereby improving the movement efficiency of the first limiting member 210.

[0091] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, reference is made to... Figure 6 The assembly device 200 may further include: a fixing member 260, which is disposed on the side of the third limiting member 230 away from the first limiting member 210. On the surface of the fixing member 260 near the third limiting member 230, part of the surface is connected to the third limiting member 230 and part of the surface is opposite to the limiting part 221.

[0092] The fastener 260 can be a single plate, a composite plate made up of multiple plates stacked together, or... Figures 6 to 11 The plate shown is composed of a plate-shaped member and two support parts connected together. One side of the plate-shaped member is connected to the third limiting member 230, and the other side is connected to two support parts. The two support parts are trapezoidal and symmetrically arranged, thereby improving the firmness of the plate-shaped member.

[0093] In this embodiment, the connection between the fixing member 260 and the third limiting member 230 can fix the third limiting member 230 and increase its structural strength. Furthermore, by having a portion of the surface of the fixing member 260 near the third limiting member 230 opposite to the limiting part 221, the second limiting member 220 can abut against the fixing member 260, thereby limiting the position of the second limiting member 220.

[0094] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, reference is made to... Figure 6 The assembly device 200 may further include a second drive assembly 270, which is connected to the limiting base 240 and drives the limiting base 240 to move toward or away from the fixing member 260.

[0095] The second drive assembly 270 can drive the limiting base 240 to move closer to or further away from the fixing member 260. That is, the second drive assembly 270 can move the first limiting member 210 and the second limiting member 220 closer to or further away from the third limiting member 230, so as to adjust the size between the first limiting member 210 and the third limiting member 230 and the size between the second limiting member 220 and the third limiting member 230, thereby enabling the assembly device 200 to accommodate battery modules 112 with different size requirements. The second drive assembly 270 can be a motor assembly, a cylinder assembly, or other electric / mechanical drive methods, which are not specifically limited here.

[0096] In this embodiment, the second driving component 270 can be used to adjust the dimensions between the first limiting member 210 and the third limiting member 230, as well as between the second limiting member 220 and the third limiting member 230, so that the assembly device 200 can be adapted to battery modules 112 with different size requirements. At the same time, the second driving component 270 can drive the limiting base 240 to move closer to or further away from the fixing member 260, so as to increase the moving speed of the limiting base 240.

[0097] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, reference is made to... Figures 6 to 11 The assembly device 200 may further include a fourth limiting member 280 and a fifth limiting member 290. The fourth limiting member 280 is disposed on one side of the support portion 222, and a portion of the fourth limiting member 280 is located on the side of the support portion 222 near the opening. The fifth limiting member 290 is disposed on the other side of the support portion 222, and a portion of the fifth limiting member 290 is located on the side of the support portion 222 near the opening.

[0098] The fourth limiting member 280 is provided on one side of the bearing portion 222, with a portion of the fourth limiting member 280 located on the side of the bearing portion 222 near the opening. The fifth limiting member 290 is provided on the other side of the bearing portion 222, with a portion of the fifth limiting member 290 located on the side of the bearing portion 222 near the opening. In other words, the fourth limiting member 280 and the fifth limiting member 290 are respectively located on both sides of the bearing portion 222 and are both partially located on the opening side of the bearing portion 222. This allows the first limiting member 210, the second limiting member 220, the fourth limiting member 280, and the fifth limiting member 290 to form a limiting recess that can limit movement from four directions.

[0099] In this embodiment, the fourth limiting member 280 and the fifth limiting member 290 enable the assembly device 200 to limit the position of both sides of the battery module 112, thereby improving the assembly effect of the battery module 112.

[0100] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, reference is made to... Figures 6 to 11The assembly device may further include a third drive assembly 300, which is connected to the fourth limiting member 280. The third drive assembly 300 drives the fourth limiting member 280 to move closer to or further away from the fifth limiting member 290. Alternatively, the fifth limiting member 290 may also be connected to a drive assembly capable of driving the fifth limiting member 290 to move closer to or further away from the fourth limiting member 280, thereby facilitating the adjustment of the distance between the fourth limiting member 280 and the fifth limiting member 290 through the movement of the fourth limiting member 280 and / or the fifth limiting member 290.

[0101] In this embodiment, the third driving component 300 drives the fourth limiting member 280 to move closer to or further away from the fifth limiting member 290, so that the distance between the fourth limiting member 280 and the fifth limiting member 290 can be adjusted according to the specific dimensions between the two sides of the battery module 112, and the third driving component 300 can increase the moving speed of the fourth limiting member 280.

[0102] According to some embodiments of this application, refer to Figure 12 and Figure 13 , Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly equipment provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly equipment provided in some embodiments of this application when assembling a battery module.

[0103] This application also provides an assembly device 1000. The assembly device 1000 includes a turntable 310 and a connecting plate 320. The turntable 310 rotates under the action of a driving force. The connecting plate 320 is connected to a third surface of the turntable 310. At least one assembly device 200 as described in any one of the above descriptions is provided on the side of the connecting plate 320 away from the third surface. When multiple assembly devices 200 are provided on the connecting plate 320, the multiple assembly devices 200 on the connecting plate 320 are configured to perform the same assembly action.

[0104] The turntable 310 rotates under the action of driving force. A connecting plate 320 is connected to the third surface of the turntable 310. At least one assembly device 200, as described in any one of the above descriptions, is provided on the side of the connecting plate 320 facing away from the third surface. Thus, the assembly device 200 on the connecting plate 320 can be rotated to the position of the operator or to a position closer to the structural component to be assembled by rotating the turntable 310. The connecting plate 320 can be detachably connected to the turntable 310, so that the assembly equipment 1000 can be disassembled into smaller structures for transport, and the number of connecting plates 320 connected to the turntable 310 can be adjusted according to actual needs. Multiple assembly devices 200 on the connecting plate 320 are configured to perform the same assembly action, while assembly devices 200 on different connecting plates 320 are configured to perform different assembly actions. Thus, after one connecting plate 320 of the assembly device 200 rotates to the first position, the first structural component can be assembled; after rotating to the second position, the second structural component can be assembled; after rotating to the third position, the third structural component can be assembled, and so on, until all structural components are assembled.

[0105] A ring of connecting plates 320, either adjacent, spaced apart, or partially adjacent and partially spaced apart, can be provided around the edge of the third surface of the turntable 310. Different structural components to be assembled are sequentially placed around the circumference of the turntable 310 along its rotation direction. As the turntable 310 rotates to different positions, different structural components are assembled. When the turntable 310 rotates less than one revolution, one revolution, or more than one revolution, the battery module 112 is assembled. Compared to a production line assembly device, the assembly device 200 of this embodiment occupies a smaller area.

[0106] In this embodiment, firstly, the various structural components that make up the battery module 112 can be assembled sequentially after the turntable 310 rotates, thereby realizing the assembly of the battery module 112; secondly, the multiple assembly devices 200 on the connecting plate 320 are configured to perform the same assembly action, so that multiple battery modules 112 can be assembled at the same time, thereby improving the assembly efficiency; thirdly, since the assembly equipment 1000 is a rotating design, the area occupied by the assembly equipment 1000 can be reduced.

[0107] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, reference is made to... Figure 12 and Figure 13 The assembly equipment 1000 may further include: a base 330, which is disposed on the fourth surface side of the turntable 310. The base 330 has a rotating shaft extending toward the center of the fourth surface of the turntable 310. The rotating shaft is connected to the turntable 310 and drives the turntable 310 to rotate. The fourth surface is opposite to the third surface.

[0108] The height of the seat 330 can be designed according to actual needs. Of course, the seat 330 can also be designed with a height adjustment mechanism to adjust the height of the seat 330 according to actual needs. The seat 330 can be solid, hollow, or formed in other forms; no specific limitations are made here.

[0109] In this embodiment, the base 330 can support the turntable 310 and provide rotational power to the turntable 310.

[0110] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, reference is made to... Figure 12 and Figure 13 The assembly equipment 1000 may further include: a pressing structure 340 connected to the base 330, the pressing structure 340 extending toward the third surface side of the turntable 310, the pressing structure 340 located on the third surface side of the turntable 310 having a pressure-applying component opposite to the assembly device 200, and part of the pressure-applying component moving toward or away from the assembly device 200 under the action of a driving force.

[0111] The pressure-applying component of the clamping structure 340 can apply downward pressure in the direction of the assembly device 200 so that the battery cell 1123, the protective cover 1122 and the end plate 1121 on the assembly device 200 are attached to each other. When a connecting material is provided between the two attached parts, the two attached parts are more firmly connected. After the pressure is applied, the pressure-applying component can move away from the assembly device 200.

[0112] The pressure application assembly may include a pressure plate 341 and a fourth drive assembly connected to the pressure plate 341. The pressure plate 341 may contact the structural component to be pressured in the assembly area to apply pressure. The fourth drive assembly drives the pressure plate 341 to move towards / away from the assembly device 200. The fourth drive assembly may be a motor, a cylinder, or other electric and / or mechanical drive structure; no specific limitation is made here.

[0113] In this embodiment, the battery module 112 is assembled more tightly by means of the clamping structure 340.

[0114] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, reference is made to... Figure 12 and Figure 13 The assembly equipment 1000 may further include: a detection structure 350, which is connected to the base 330 and extends toward the third surface side of the turntable 310. The detection structure 350 located on the third surface side of the turntable 310 is provided with a first detection element 351, which is opposite to the assembly area of ​​the assembly device 200.

[0115] In some embodiments, the first detection element 351 is a sensor or an image acquisition device.

[0116] Detection structure 350 can be Figure 11 and Figure 12 The rod shape shown could also be in other forms.

[0117] The first detection element 351 is opposite to the assembly area of ​​the assembly device 200. The first detection element 351 is used to detect whether the assembly area has a specified structural component to be assembled, so as to reduce rework caused by insufficient assembly of structural components.

[0118] When the first detection element 351 is a sensor, the sensor can be a distance sensor. The signal emitted by the sensor is sent to the assembly area and then returned to obtain the distance between the sensor and the assembly area. When the obtained distance is equal to a preset distance, it is determined that the specified structural component has been assembled. When the obtained distance is greater than the preset distance, it is determined that a structural component has not been assembled or that the quantity of a certain structural component has been assembled exceeded. Of course, the first detection element 351 can also be other types of sensors.

[0119] When the first detection element 351 is an image acquisition device, the image acquisition device can be a lens that can capture images of the assembly area. When the acquired image matches a preset image, it is determined that the specified structural component is assembled. When the acquired image does not match the preset image, it is determined that a structural component is not assembled or that an excessive number of structural components are assembled. Of course, the first detection element 351 can also be other forms of image acquisition device.

[0120] In this embodiment, the detection structure 350 can detect whether the assembly area has the specified structural components to be assembled, thereby reducing rework caused by the lack of assembly structural components.

[0121] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, reference is made to... Figure 14 The assembly equipment 1000 may also include: a first connector 360 and multiple material handling devices, which are respectively connected to the first connector 360, and different types of material handling devices are configured to provide different materials to the assembly equipment 200.

[0122] The assembly device 200 can assemble multiple identical or different structural components together, while various picking devices can retrieve the required structural components for the assembly device 200. In a specific implementation, the first connecting member 360 may be connected to a displacement device such as a robotic arm, so that the picking device can move between the location of the structural component to be assembled and the location of the assembly area of ​​the assembly device 200.

[0123] In this embodiment, multiple material handling devices can pick up different structural components for the assembly device 200, thereby improving the assembly efficiency of the assembly equipment 1000.

[0124] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, reference is made to... Figures 14 to 16 The material handling device may include: a second connector 371 and a material handling plate 372. The second connector 371 is connected to the first connector 360. The side of the second connector 371 away from the first connector 360 has a connecting recess. The material handling plate 372 is slidably connected to the two inner walls of the connecting recess. A suction cup 373 is provided on the surface of the material handling plate 372 away from the second connector 371.

[0125] The suction cup 373 utilizes the pressure difference between the internal and external atmospheres to adsorb structural components to be assembled, such as the adsorption end plate 1121, the protective cover 1122, or the battery cell 1123. The picking plate 372 is slidably connected to the two opposing inner walls of the connecting recess. Thus, when there is a slight distance between the structural component to be assembled adsorbed on the suction cup 373 and the assembly area on the assembly device 200, the sliding of the picking plate 372 can bring the structural component adsorbed on the suction cup 373 into alignment with the assembly area.

[0126] In this embodiment, the suction cup 373 can be used to pick up the structural component to be assembled by adsorption. Once the component is picked up to the assembly area, it can be released, which is both convenient and quick.

[0127] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, reference is made to... Figures 14 to 16 The material handling device may further include: a limiting member 374 and an elastic member 375. The limiting member 374 is connected to a second connecting member 371 at one end of the material handling plate 372. The elastic member 375 is disposed between the limiting member 374 and the material handling plate 372. The elastic member 375 is connected to the limiting member 374 and the material handling plate 372 respectively.

[0128] Limiting component 374 can be as follows Figure 16 The rod-shaped component shown can also be other structural shapes. The elastic element 375 can be a spring or a structural component made of materials such as rubber or silicone.

[0129] In this embodiment, the elastic element 375 can provide a buffering force for the material picking plate 372 so that when the structural component on the suction cup 373 and the assembly area are not completely opposite, the structural component on the suction cup 373 can have a slight displacement under the limiting action of the first limiting element 210, the second limiting element 220 and the third limiting element 230, thereby enabling the structural component on the suction cup 373 to be opposite to the assembly area.

[0130] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, reference is made to... Figures 15 to 19The material handling device may further include: a first rotating member 376 and a second rotating member 377, one end of the first rotating member 376 and one end of the second rotating member 377 being connected to the side of the second connecting member 371 respectively, the other end of the first rotating member 376 and the other end of the second rotating member 377 switching between a mating state and a separating state, and the mating position of the first rotating member 376 and the second rotating member 377 being on the same plane as the adsorption surface of the suction cup 373.

[0131] In this embodiment, the contact positions of the first rotating member 376 and the second rotating member 377 are on the same plane as the adsorption surface of the suction cup 373. After the suction cup 373 adsorbs the structural member, the first rotating member 376 and the second rotating member 377 rotate to the contact state and clamp the film, such as release paper 11221, on the surface of the structural member adsorbed on the suction cup 373 facing the suction cup 373. When the suction cup 373 releases the adsorbed structural member, the first rotating member 376 and the second rotating member 377 remain in the contact state so that the film can be taken away when the material picking device moves away from the released structural member.

[0132] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, the material handling device may further include: a second detection element disposed in the connecting recess, and the material handling plate 372 is provided with a through hole opposite to the second detection element.

[0133] In some embodiments, the second detection element is a sensor or an image acquisition device.

[0134] When the second detection element is a sensor, the sensor can be a distance sensor. The signal emitted by the sensor travels through a through hole to the suction cup 373 side of the picking plate 372 and then returns to obtain the distance between the sensor and the suction cup 373 side. When the obtained distance is equal to a preset distance, it is determined that a structural component has been adsorbed; when the obtained distance is greater than the preset distance, it is determined that no structural component has been adsorbed or that the adsorbed structure is not the desired structural component. Of course, the second detection element can also be other types of sensors.

[0135] When the second detection element is an image acquisition device, the image acquisition device can be a lens that can capture an image of the suction cup 373 side of the material handling plate 372 through a through hole. When the acquired image matches the preset image, it is determined that a structural component has been adsorbed; when the acquired image does not match the preset image, it is determined that no structural component has been adsorbed. Of course, the second detection element can also be other forms of image acquisition device.

[0136] In this embodiment, the second detection device can determine whether the suction cup 373 has a structural component (such as release paper 11221) adsorbed, so as to reduce the rework probability caused by the release paper 11221 not being removed.

[0137] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, reference is made to... Figure 14 , Figure 19 and Figure 20 The material handling device includes a first material handling claw 378, a second material handling claw 379, and a third detection element 380. The first material handling claw 378 and the second material handling claw 379 are opposite to each other. The first material handling claw 378 and / or the second material handling claw 379 move toward or away from each other under the action of a driving force. The third detection element 380 is positioned relative to the first material handling claw 378 and the second material handling claw 379.

[0138] In some embodiments, the third detection element is a sensor or an image acquisition device.

[0139] The first and / or second grippers 378 move toward or away from each other under the action of a driving force. Thus, when the first and / or second grippers 378 move toward each other under the action of a driving force, they can clamp the structural component to be assembled; and when the first and / or second grippers 378 move away from each other under the action of a driving force, they can release the clamped structural component to be assembled. A third detection element is used to detect whether the first and second grippers 378 are clamping the structural component to be assembled. The third detection element can refer to the settings of the first or second detection element, and will not be elaborated here.

[0140] In this embodiment, the first picking claw 378 and the second picking claw 379 can pick up the structural components to be assembled by gripping, while the third detection component can detect whether the structural components to be assembled have been gripped, which can reduce the probability of missing structural components in the assembled structure (such as battery module 112).

[0141] According to some embodiments of this application, this application also provides an assembly method applied to the assembly apparatus 200 described in any of the above-mentioned embodiments, referring to... Figure 6 and Figure 7 The assembly method includes: placing a first structural member between the second limiting member 220 and the first limiting member 210, driving the first limiting member 210 to move so that the first structural member abuts against the second limiting member 220; placing a second structural member on the first structural member and making the second structural member abut against the second surface of the first limiting member; placing a third structural member on the side of the second structural member away from the first limiting member 210, driving the first limiting member 210 to move so that the third structural member abuts against the third limiting member 230.

[0142] In one embodiment, the first structural component is the end plate 1121 of the battery module 112, the second structural component is the protective cover 1122 of the battery module 112, and the third structural component is the battery cell 1123 of the battery module 112.

[0143] In this embodiment, the battery module 112 assembled by the assembly method can better control the distance d1 between the second end face 1123B of the battery cell 1123 and the surface of the protective cover 1122 facing away from the second end face 1123B, control the distance d2 between the surface of the end plate 1121 close to the second end face 1123B and the surface of the protective cover 1122 facing away from the second end face 1123B, and control the distance d3 between the surface of the end plate 1121 away from the first end face 1123A and the second end face 1123B of the battery cell 1123. This reduces the probability of assembly errors in the assembled battery module 112.

[0144] In one specific embodiment, refer to Figures 6 to 20 As shown, the assembly equipment 1000 includes:

[0145] The system comprises a turntable 310, four connecting plates 320, a base 330, a clamping structure 340, and eight detection structures 350. The turntable 310 has a third and a fourth surface that are opposite to each other. The four connecting plates 320 are evenly distributed around the edge of the third surface of the turntable 310. The base 330 is located on the fourth surface side of the turntable 310, and a rotating shaft extends from the base 330 toward the center of the fourth surface of the turntable 310. The rotating shaft is connected to the turntable 310 and drives the turntable 310 to rotate. Each connecting plate 320 has two assembly devices 200 on the side opposite to the third surface. The two assembly devices 200 on the same connecting plate 320 are configured to perform the same assembly action, while the assembly devices 200 on the four connecting plates 320 are configured to perform different assembly actions. The clamping structure 340 is connected to the base 330 and extends towards the third surface of the turntable 310. The clamping structure 340 located on the third surface of the turntable 310 has a bent pressure-applying component opposite to the assembly device 200 on one of the connecting plates 320. Part of the pressure-applying component moves towards or away from the assembly device 200 under the action of a driving force. Eight detection structures 350 are respectively connected to the base 330, and each detection structure 350 detects an assembly area on one assembly device 200. The detection structure 350 extends towards the third surface of the turntable 310 and is equipped with a first detection element 351. The first detection element 351 is opposite to the assembly area of ​​the assembly device 200 and is a sensor.

[0146] Assembly device 200 includes: a first limiting member 210, a second limiting member 220, a third limiting member 230, a limiting base 240, a first driving assembly 250, a fixing member 260, a second driving assembly 270, a fourth limiting member 280, a fifth limiting member 290, and a third driving assembly 300. The limiting base 240 is connected to a connecting plate 320 via the second driving assembly 270. The fixing member 260 is vertically connected to the connecting plate 320 and located at one end of the limiting base 240. Multiple support portions are provided on the side of the fixing member 260 away from the limiting base 240, with the cross-sectional dimension of the support portions near the connecting plate 320 being larger than the cross-sectional dimension of the support portions away from the connecting plate 320. The first driving assembly 250 connects the limiting base 240 and the first limiting member 210, with the first limiting member 210 located on the side of the fixing member 260 away from the support portions. The second limiting member 220 includes a limiting portion 221 and a supporting portion 222. One end of the limiting portion 221 and one end of the supporting portion 222 are connected to form an L-shaped second limiting member 220. The two sides of the limiting portion 221 are respectively opposite to the fixing member 260 and the first limiting member 210. The supporting portion 222 is connected to the limiting base 240. The limiting portion 221, the supporting portion 222, and the first limiting member 210 cooperate to define a limiting recess. The surface of the first limiting member 210 facing the second limiting member 220 is the second reference surface 210A, and the surface of the second limiting member 220 facing the first limiting member 210 is the first reference surface 220A. The third limiting member 230 is located on the opening side of the limiting recess and is connected to the fixing member 260. The surface of the third limiting member 230 facing the first limiting member 210 is the third reference surface 230A. A fourth limiting member 280 and a fifth limiting member 290 are respectively provided on both sides of the limiting recess, and the third driving assembly 300 is connected to the fourth limiting member 280. The fifth limiting member 290 is connected to a driving assembly capable of driving the fifth limiting member 290 to move closer to or away from the fourth limiting member 280. The second driving assembly 270 of the two assembly devices 200 on the same connecting plate 320 is the same.

[0147] A material handling device includes a first connector 360 and two material handling devices connected to the first connector 360. One material handling device is configured to simultaneously provide two identical portions of material to two assembly devices 200 on a connecting plate 320, while the two material handling devices are configured to provide different materials to the assembly devices 200. Another material handling device includes a second connector 371, a material handling plate 372, a suction cup 373, a limiting member 374, an elastic member 375, a first rotating member 376, a second rotating member 377, and a second detection member. The second connector 371 is connected to the first connector 360. A connecting recess is recessed on the side of the second connector 371 away from the first connector 360. The material handling plate 372 is slidably connected to two opposing inner walls of the connecting recess, and a suction cup 373 is provided on the surface of the material handling plate 372 away from the second connector 371. The limiting member 374 is connected to the second connecting member 371 at one end of the picking plate 372. An elastic member 375 is disposed between the limiting member 374 and the picking plate 372, connecting both the limiting member 374 and the picking plate 372. One end of the first rotating member 376 and one end of the second rotating member 377 are respectively connected to the side of the second connecting member 371. The other ends of the first rotating member 376 and the second rotating member 377 switch between a mating state and a separated state. The mating position of the first rotating member 376 and the second rotating member 377 is on the same plane as the suction surface of the suction cup 373. A second detection member is disposed within the connecting recess. The picking plate 372 has a through hole opposite to the second detection member, which is an image acquisition device. Another set of material handling devices includes: a first material handling claw 378, a second material handling claw 379, and a third detection element 380. The first material handling claw 378 and the second material handling claw 379 are opposite to each other. The first material handling claw 378 and / or the second material handling claw 379 move towards or away from each other under the action of driving force. The third detection element 380 is positioned relative to the first material handling claw 378 and the second material handling claw 379. The third detection element is an image acquisition device.

[0148] The assembly method of this embodiment includes:

[0149] S101: Turntable 310 is in the first position.

[0150] The end plate 1121 is gripped by the first gripping claw 378 and the second gripping claw 379 and placed on the support portion 222 between the second limiting member 220 and the first limiting member 210. Then, the first driving assembly 250 drives the first limiting member 210 to move closer to the second limiting member 220 so that the placed end plate 1121 abuts against the first reference surface 220A. Subsequently, one or both of the fourth limiting member 280 and the fifth limiting member 290 can be moved to clamp both sides of the end plate 1121.

[0151] The protective cover 1122 is placed and adhered to the end plate 1121 by suction cup 373. After being adhered to the end plate 1121, the protective cover 1122 abuts against the second reference surface 210A. When suction cup 373 is removed, the first rotating member 376 and the second rotating member 377 clamp away the release paper 11221 on the protective cover 1122. The second detection member confirms that the release paper 11221 has been removed.

[0152] S102: Turntable 310 rotates 90 degrees and reaches the second position.

[0153] The first picking claw 378 and the second picking claw 379 pick up the battery cell 1123 and place the battery cell 1123 on the side of the protective cover 1122 away from the first limiting member 210. The first driving component 250 drives the first limiting member 210 to move closer to the third limiting member 230 so that the placed battery cell 1123 abuts against the third reference surface 230A, and the surfaces of the battery cell 1123 and the protective cover 1122 away from the end plate 1121 are bonded.

[0154] S103: Turntable 310 rotates 90 degrees and reaches the third position.

[0155] The pressing structure 340 presses down on the battery cell 1123, the protective cover 1122 and the end plate 1121 to make the battery cell 1123, the protective cover 1122 and the end plate 1121 more compact and better bonded together.

[0156] S104: Turntable 310 rotates 90 degrees and reaches the fourth position.

[0157] Remove the assembled battery cell 112.

[0158] It should be noted that the approximate position of the limiting base 240 can be adjusted via the second drive component 270 at the start of assembly.

[0159] In this embodiment, firstly, by limiting the three reference planes, the end plate 1121, protective cover 1122, and battery cell 1123 are subject to reference control during assembly, thereby stabilizing the assembly dimensions and improving the pass rate; secondly, during the assembly process, the end plate 1121, protective cover 1122, and battery cell 1123 do not leave the three reference planes, thereby preventing assembly errors caused by separation; thirdly, during assembly, the end plate 1121, protective cover 1122, and battery cell 1123 are respectively close to different structural components to prevent tension; fourthly, multi-station assembly saves cycle time.

[0160] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and not to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features. These modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and they should all be covered within the scope of the claims and specification of this application. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the various technical features mentioned in the various embodiments can be combined in any way. This application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An assembly apparatus for assembling an end plate and a protective cover of a battery cell, the battery cell having a first end face and a second end face, the protective cover being disposed on the first end face, the end plate being disposed between the first end face and the second end face of the battery cell, the distance between the second end face and a surface of the protective cover facing away from the second end face being d1, the distance between the surface of the end plate near the second end face and a surface of the protective cover facing away from the second end face being d2, and the distance between the surface of the end plate away from the first end face and the second end face being d3; characterized in that, include: The first limiting member has a first surface and a second surface on one side; The second limiting member is opposite to the first surface of the first limiting member. The surface of the second limiting member facing the first limiting member is the first reference surface, and the surface of the first limiting member facing the second limiting member is the second reference surface. The third limiting member is opposite to the second surface of the first limiting member, and the surface of the third limiting member facing the first limiting member is the third reference surface. The first reference surface protrudes from the third reference surface by a distance equal to d3. Under the action of driving force, the first limiting member moves towards or away from the second and third limiting members, so that the distance between the second reference surface and the third reference surface can be adjusted to d1, and the distance between the first reference surface and the second reference surface can be adjusted to d2. Then, the first limiting member can abut against the protective cover, the first reference surface of the second limiting member can abut against the end plate, and the third reference surface of the third limiting member can abut against the battery cell.

2. The assembly apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second limiting member includes a limiting part and a supporting part. The limiting part is opposite to the first surface. One end of the supporting part is connected to the limiting part, and the other end extends in the direction of the first limiting member. The limiting part, the supporting part, and the first limiting member cooperate to define a limiting recess. The third limiting member is located on the opening side of the limiting recess.

3. The assembly apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, Also includes: A limiting base is connected to the side of the bearing portion opposite to the limiting recess; A first driving component is connected to the limiting base and the first limiting member respectively, and the first driving component drives the first limiting member to move toward or away from the limiting part.

4. The assembly apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, Also includes: A fixing member is provided on the side of the third limiting member away from the first limiting member. On the surface of the fixing member near the third limiting member, part of the surface is connected to the third limiting member and part of the surface is opposite to the limiting part.

5. The assembly apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, Also includes: A second driving component is connected to the limiting base, and the second driving component drives the limiting base to move toward or away from the fixing member.

6. The assembly apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, Also includes: A fourth limiting member is provided on one side of the bearing portion, and part of the fourth limiting member is located on the side of the bearing portion closer to the opening; A fifth limiting member is provided on the other side of the bearing portion, and part of the fifth limiting member is located on the side of the bearing portion closer to the opening.

7. The assembly apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that, Also includes: A third driving component is connected to the fourth limiting member, and the third driving component drives the fourth limiting member to move toward or away from the fifth limiting member.

8. An assembly device, characterized in that, include: A turntable that rotates under the action of a driving force; A connecting plate is connected to the third surface of the turntable, and at least one assembly device according to any one of claims 1-7 is provided on the side of the connecting plate opposite to the third surface; When the connecting plate is provided with multiple assembly devices, the multiple assembly devices on the connecting plate are configured to perform the same assembly action.

9. The assembly equipment according to claim 8, characterized in that, Also includes: A base is disposed on the fourth surface side of the turntable, and a rotating shaft extends from the base toward the center of the fourth surface of the turntable. The rotating shaft is connected to the turntable and drives the turntable to rotate. The fourth surface is opposite to the third surface.

10. The assembly equipment according to claim 9, characterized in that, Also includes: A clamping structure is connected to the base body and extends toward the third surface side of the turntable. The clamping structure located on the third surface side of the turntable has a pressure-applying component that is opposite to the assembly device. Part of the pressure-applying component moves toward or away from the assembly device under the action of a driving force.

11. The assembly equipment according to claim 9, characterized in that, Also includes: The detection structure is connected to the base and extends toward the third surface of the turntable. The detection structure located on the third surface of the turntable is provided with a first detection element, which is opposite to the assembly area of ​​the assembly device.

12. The assembly equipment according to claim 8, characterized in that, Also includes: First connector; Multiple material handling devices are provided, each of which is connected to the first connector. Different material handling devices are configured to provide different materials to the assembly device.

13. The assembly equipment according to claim 12, characterized in that, The material handling device includes a second connector and a material handling plate. The second connector is connected to the first connector. The second connector has a connecting recess on the side away from the first connector. The material handling plate is slidably connected to the two opposing inner walls of the connecting recess. A suction cup is provided on the surface of the material handling plate away from the second connector.

14. The assembly equipment according to claim 13, characterized in that, The material handling device further includes a limiting member and an elastic member. The limiting member is connected to a second connecting member at one end of the material handling plate, and the elastic member is disposed between the limiting member and the material handling plate. The elastic member is connected to the limiting member and the material handling plate respectively.

15. The assembly equipment according to claim 14, characterized in that, The material handling device further includes: a first rotating component and a second rotating component, one end of the first rotating component and one end of the second rotating component are respectively connected to the side of the second connecting component, the other end of the first rotating component and the other end of the second rotating component switch between a mating state and a separating state, and the mating position of the first rotating component and the second rotating component is on the same plane as the adsorption surface of the suction cup.

16. The assembly equipment according to claim 15, characterized in that, The material handling device further includes a second detection element, which is disposed in the connecting recess, and the material handling plate is provided with a through hole opposite to the second detection element.

17. The assembly equipment according to claim 12, characterized in that, The material handling device includes: a first material handling claw, a second material handling claw, and a third detection element. The first material handling claw and the second material handling claw are opposite to each other. The first material handling claw and / or the second material handling claw move towards or away from each other under the action of a driving force. The third detection element is positioned relative to the first material handling claw and the second material handling claw.

18. An assembly method, applied to the assembly apparatus according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The assembly method includes: A first structural member is placed between the second limiting member and the first limiting member, and the first limiting member is driven to move so that the first structural member abuts against the second limiting member; Place the second structural member on the first structural member, such that the second structural member abuts against the second surface of the first limiting member; A third structural member is placed on the side of the second structural member away from the first limiting member, and the first limiting member is moved so that the third structural member abuts against the third limiting member.

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