A production system and a battery manufacturing method

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of battery manufacturing equipment, and particularly provides a production system and a battery manufacturing method. The production system comprises: a combined jig, a general jig capable of clamping a component main body and an auxiliary jig used for clamping a to-be-connected part or a processing auxiliary part, the general jig and the auxiliary jig can be combined and separated; a general conveying line formed with a plurality of stations in an extension direction and conveying the general jig; the auxiliary jig is arranged on at least part of the stations, the general jig carries the component main body and passes through the plurality of stations under the conveying of the general conveying line, and can be combined with the auxiliary jig on different stations respectively, so that production devices on each station can complete production processing on the component main body. According to the production system, the component main body can be quickly circulated among a plurality of different stations on an uninterrupted general conveying line through the same general jig, production and manufacturing of a plurality of processes are completed, and the component main body does not need to switch production lines and jigs in the whole process.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of battery manufacturing equipment technology, specifically to a production system and a battery manufacturing method. Background Technology

[0002] In the production of many products, multiple components are attached to or connected to the main body of the product, resulting in multiple processes. Each process requires different fixtures because the objects to be connected to the main body or the necessary processing aids vary. Taking battery production as an example, the cell and adapter welding process requires a shared fixture to fix both the cell and adapter; the adapter and top cover welding process requires a shared fixture to fix both the cell and top cover; and the cell adhesive application process requires a shared fixture to fix both the cell and adhesive application aids. Therefore, currently, different processes on the production line use fixtures with different structures, leading to discontinuous production line layouts for each process. Figure 1 As shown, many processes require rotary production lines. In process A, the rotary production line has fixture A. Fixture A first receives battery cells at position one, then moves to position two to receive other components, then to position three for welding, and finally to position four for unloading. Then, a robotic arm or similar moving mechanism removes the battery cells from fixture A and moves them to fixture B in the next process. In process B, fixture B rotates to different positions to receive and process the components. After processing in process B, the moving mechanism removes the battery cells from fixture B again and places them into fixtures in the next rotary production line. Throughout the entire production process, rotary production lines are required at many processing stations, making the system complex. The entire process involves multiple production line and fixture changes, and multiple material handling operations, making it cumbersome and inefficient. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In view of this, this application aims to provide a production system that connects multiple processing steps through the same universal conveyor line. The main body of the component can move quickly between multiple different processes by moving on a continuous universal conveyor line through the same universal fixture, and complete the production of each process. During the whole process, the main body of the component does not need to switch production lines or fixtures. This solves the problem in the prior art that when the main body of the component switches processing steps, it is necessary to change the production line and the fixture used, which leads to a cumbersome and inefficient production process.

[0004] This application provides a production system, comprising: a combination fixture, including a general fixture for clamping a component body and an auxiliary fixture for clamping a workpiece or processing aid, wherein the general fixture and the auxiliary fixture can be assembled and separated; a general conveyor line having multiple workstations along its extension direction and driving the general fixture to move; wherein at least some workstations are provided with the auxiliary fixtures, and the general fixture, carrying the component body, passes through the multiple workstations under the conveyor line, and can be assembled with the auxiliary fixtures at different workstations respectively, so that the production device at each workstation can complete the production processing of the component body.

[0005] In one possible implementation, the universal conveyor line is a circulating universal conveyor line, comprising: a production conveyor section for conveying the universal fixture so that the universal fixture flows between the plurality of workstations; and a return section for returning the unloaded universal fixture so that the unloaded universal fixture moves to the starting workstation of the production conveyor section.

[0006] In one possible implementation, the auxiliary fixture, driven by the conveying fixture, moves closer to or further away from the general fixture located on the general conveyor line, and engages and disengages with the general fixture.

[0007] In one possible implementation, the universal fixture is provided with a fitting space to accommodate the auxiliary fixture, wherein the auxiliary fixture is embedded in the fitting space and assembled with the universal fixture, or removed from the fitting space and separated from the universal fixture.

[0008] In one possible implementation, the production system is a battery production system, the general-purpose fixture is used to clamp the battery cell, and the auxiliary fixture is used to clamp the component to be attached to the battery cell.

[0009] In one possible implementation, the plurality of workstations include a loading workstation, a welding workstation, an adhesive application workstation, a dust removal workstation, an inspection workstation, and a unloading workstation; at least the welding workstation is provided with an auxiliary fixture that can be assembled and disassembled with the general fixture located on the general conveyor line.

[0010] In one possible implementation, the auxiliary fixture at the welding station includes at least a first clamp for holding the adapter piece and a second clamp for holding the top cover. The first clamp and the second clamp are arranged in a row and both match the fitting space on the general fixture. The first clamp and the second clamp are respectively engaged or disengaged from the general fixture by alternating drive of the same conveying fixture or drive of different conveying fixtures.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the first fixture and the second fixture are arranged along the extension direction of the general conveyor line, forming a first welding station and a second welding station.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the adhesive application station includes a lower adhesive application station for applying adhesive to the lower surface of the battery cell tab, an upper adhesive application station for applying adhesive to the upper surface of the battery cell tab, and a flexible connection adhesive application station. The auxiliary fixture of the lower adhesive application station includes a pressing member for pressing the tab portion of the battery cell, the auxiliary fixture of the upper adhesive application station includes a first support member for supporting the tab portion of the battery cell, and the auxiliary fixture of the flexible connection adhesive application station includes a second support member for supporting the top cover. The pressing member, the first support member, and the second support member are respectively engaged or disengaged from the general fixture on the general conveyor line under the drive of the conveying fixture.

[0013] In one possible implementation, along the extension direction of the general conveyor line, the loading station, the first welding station, the lower adhesive application station, the second welding station, the dust removal station, the inspection station, the upper adhesive application station, the flexible connector adhesive application station, and the unloading station are arranged sequentially; the general fixture is provided with a clamping assembly capable of opening and closing; the loading station is provided with an opening mechanism for opening the clamping assembly and a battery cell loading mechanism for providing battery cells; the first welding station is provided with a first fixture, a first conveying fixture for driving the first fixture to move, a transition piece loading mechanism for providing transition pieces, and a welding mechanism; the lower adhesive application station is provided with a pressing component, a third conveying fixture for driving the pressing component to move, and an adhesive application mechanism; The second welding station is equipped with a second clamp, a second conveying fixture for driving the second clamp to move, a top cover feeding mechanism for providing the top cover, and a welding mechanism; the dust removal station is equipped with a dust removal device for removing dust from the battery cell, and the inspection station is equipped with an inspection device for inspecting the weld; the adhesive application station is equipped with a first support member, a fourth conveying fixture for driving the first support member to move, and an adhesive application mechanism; the flexible connection adhesive application station is equipped with a second support member, a fifth conveying fixture for driving the second support member to move, and an adhesive application mechanism; the unloading station is equipped with an opening mechanism for opening the clamping assembly and a battery cell unloading mechanism for unloading the battery cell from the general fixture.

[0014] This application also provides a battery manufacturing method applicable to the production system described in any of the preceding claims. The manufacturing method includes the following steps: setting up multiple workstations along the conveying direction of the same universal conveyor line; setting up a first clamp for holding an adapter piece at a first welding workstation, and setting up a second clamp for holding a top cover at a second welding workstation; setting up a cell clamping position and a fitting space on a universal fixture; placing the universal fixture on the universal conveyor line, and placing the cell in the cell clamping position on the universal fixture; causing the universal conveyor line to convey the universal fixture to the first welding workstation; moving the first clamp holding the adapter piece into the fitting space on the universal fixture, positioned at the head end of the cell, so that the... The adapter plate contacts the electrode tab of the battery cell; the adapter plate and the electrode tab of the battery cell are welded together to connect the adapter plate and the electrode tab; the first clamp releases its grip on the adapter plate and moves it out of the fitting space on the universal fixture; the universal conveyor line continues to transport the universal fixture and to the second welding station; the second clamp holding the top cover moves into the fitting space of the universal fixture so that the top cover contacts the adapter plate; the adapter plate and the top cover are welded together to connect the top cover and the adapter plate; the second clamp releases its grip on the top cover and moves it out of the fitting space on the universal fixture; the universal conveyor line continues to transport the universal fixture and to the next station.

[0015] In one possible implementation, the method further includes the following steps: before the universal conveyor line transports the universal fixture to the second welding station, the universal fixture is first transported from the first welding station to the lower adhesive application station; the pressing component located at the lower adhesive application station is moved down and at least partially embedded in the fitting space on the universal fixture to press the tabs of the battery cell and the adapter piece; and the adhesive application mechanism applies adhesive to the lower surfaces of the tabs and the adapter piece from below the universal fixture.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the steps further include: transporting the universal fixture from the second welding station to the dust removal station via the universal conveyor line; removing dust from the battery cells on the universal fixture using a dust removal device; transporting the universal fixture to the inspection station via the universal conveyor line; inspecting the welds on the battery cells using an inspection device; transporting the universal fixture to the upper adhesive application station via the universal conveyor line; and moving the first support member at the upper adhesive application station upwards to at least partially embed into the fitting space on the universal fixture to support the top cover on the universal fixture. The adhesive applicator applies adhesive to the upper surfaces of the tabs and the adapter piece from above the universal fixture; the universal conveyor line transports the universal fixture to the flexible connector adhesive applicator station; the second support member at the upper adhesive applicator station moves upward and at least partially embeds into the fitting space on the universal fixture to support the top cover on the universal fixture; the adhesive applicator applies adhesive to the upper surfaces of the adapter piece and the top cover from above the universal fixture; the universal conveyor line transports the universal fixture to the unloading station; and the cell unloading mechanism removes the cell from the universal fixture.

[0017] In one possible implementation, the method further includes the following steps: moving the first clamp from the receiving position to the feeding position after receiving the adapter piece, then raising or lowering it to enter the fitting space from below or to one side of the universal fixture and engaging with the universal fixture; moving the first clamp from the feeding position downwards or horizontally to separate it from the universal fixture, and then horizontally moving it to the receiving position; moving the second clamp from the receiving position to the feeding position after receiving the adapter piece, then raising it to enter the fitting space from below the universal fixture and engaging with the universal fixture; and moving the second clamp from the feeding position downwards to separate it from the universal fixture, and then horizontally moving it to the receiving position.

[0018] In one possible implementation, the method further includes the following steps: setting at least two sets of the first clamps, such that when one set is in the receiving position to receive the adapter piece, the other set is in the feeding position and is embedded in the fitting space of the universal fixture on the universal conveyor line; setting at least two sets of the second clamps, such that when one set is in the receiving position to receive the top cover, the other set is in the feeding position and is embedded in the fitting space of the universal fixture on the universal conveyor line.

[0019] The production system provided in this application can have only one general-purpose conveyor line, with multiple different processing stations set up on the same general-purpose conveyor line. Multiple auxiliary fixtures for fixing parts to be received are set up and distributed at different stations. A general-purpose fixture for fixing the main body of the component is set up on the general-purpose conveyor line. The general-purpose fixture, carrying the main body of the component, can sequentially pass through multiple processing stations under the conveyor line. At some stations, it assembles with the auxiliary fixture of that station to meet the positional matching requirements of the main body of the component and the part to be received, enabling production for that process. After production, it separates from the auxiliary fixture of that station, and the general-purpose conveyor line continues to transport the general-purpose fixture, allowing the main body of the component to enter the next production station. The main body of the component can quickly flow between different stations under the conveyor line via a single general-purpose fixture, completing most, or even all, of the processing operations required on the main body of the component. Throughout the process, there is no need to switch production lines or fixtures, significantly simplifying the overall structure of the production system, reducing the number of production lines and fixtures, reducing the complexity of the manufacturing process, and improving production efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 The image shows a rotary production line set up in a single processing step in the prior art;

[0021] Figure 2 The diagram shown is a schematic representation of the production system in an embodiment of this application.

[0022] Figure 3 The diagram shown is a schematic diagram of a circulating conveyor line in an embodiment of this application;

[0023] Figure 4 The diagram shown is a schematic diagram of the first welding station and the second welding station in an embodiment of this application;

[0024] Figure 5 The diagram shown is a schematic of a general-purpose fixture in an embodiment of this application;

[0025] Figure 6 The diagram shown is a schematic diagram of the first angle of the first conveying fixture in an embodiment of this application;

[0026] Figure 7 The diagram shown is a second-angle schematic diagram of the first conveying fixture in an embodiment of this application;

[0027] Figure 8 The diagram shown is a third-angle schematic diagram of the first conveying fixture in an embodiment of this application;

[0028] Figure 9 The diagram shown is a schematic diagram of the second conveying fixture in an embodiment of this application.

[0029] Figure 1-9 middle:

[0030] 1. General-purpose fixture; 101. Fitting space; 102. First baffle; 103. Second baffle; 104. Limiting baffle; 2. First clamping unit; 21. First clamp; 22. First lifting mechanism; 23. Base; 3. First conveying fixture; 31. First driving device; 32. First transmission assembly; 33. Second transmission assembly; 331. First connecting piece; 332. First transmission belt; 4. Second clamping unit; 41. Second clamp; 5. Second conveying fixture; 51. Second driving device; 52. Third transmission... 53. Moving component; 531. Fourth transmission component; 532. Second connecting component; 533. Second transmission belt; 6. General conveyor line; 61. Production conveyor section; 62. Return section; 63. Transfer section; 601. Loading station; 602. First welding station; 603. Lower adhesive application station; 604. Second welding station; 605. Dust removal station; 606. Inspection station; 607. Upper adhesive application station; 608. Flexible connection adhesive application station; 609. Unloading station; 7. Pressing component; 8. First support component; 9. Second support component. Detailed Implementation

[0031] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0032] Application Overview

[0033] As described in the background section, in the prior art, the production of many products involves multiple processing steps, each requiring different fixture structures and processing procedures. Taking battery production as an example, it involves numerous steps such as welding the cell tabs to the adapter plates, welding the cell adapter plates to the top cover, post-weld dust removal, CCD inspection of the solder marks, applying adhesive to the cell tabs, applying adhesive to the cell tabs, and applying adhesive to the solder marks of the cell flexible connections. The requirements for fixtures differ in each step. For example... Figure 1As shown, rotary production lines are required at many processing stations. For example, the battery cell (component body) needs to be welded to the adapter plate (first part to be received) first, and then to the top cover (first part to be received). Therefore, a rotary production line is needed at the adapter plate welding station, along with a fixture to jointly fix the battery cell and adapter plate, ensuring they are in the correct welding positions. Similarly, a rotary production line is needed at the top cover welding station, also requiring a fixture to jointly fix the battery cell and top cover. On the rotary production line in process A, the fixture first receives the battery cell at position one, then moves to position two to receive other parts to be received, then moves to position three for welding, and finally moves to position four for unloading the battery cell. Then, a robotic arm or other lifting mechanism removes the battery cell and moves it to the next process, such as process B, on the rotary production line, where it is fixed to a fixture. This process then continues with multiple position changes for receiving and manufacturing.

[0034] Many processing steps require the installation of rotary production lines, which are complex in structure. The entire manufacturing process involves multiple switching of production lines and fixtures. Each time a process is switched, the battery cells need to be moved. The manufacturing process is cumbersome and inefficient, and the frequent handling can easily damage the battery cells.

[0035] In view of this, the embodiments of this application aim to provide a production system and battery manufacturing method. By setting up multiple workstations on the same universal conveyor line, multiple processing steps can be connected in series. The main body of the component, such as the battery cell, can be quickly transferred between multiple workstations with different processing steps by being transported by the same universal fixture on a continuous universal conveyor line. At some workstations, the position matching requirements of the main body of the component and the part to be received can be met by assembling the universal fixture with the auxiliary fixture at that workstation to carry out the production at that workstation. After the production is completed, the universal fixture is separated from the auxiliary fixture at that workstation, and the main body of the component can be directly moved to the next workstation for another processing step without switching fixtures and production lines. Throughout the process, the main body of the component can complete the production of each process under the clamping of the same universal fixture and the conveying of the same universal conveyor line. The main body of the component does not need to switch production lines or fixtures, and there is no handling involved. Compared with the production systems of the prior art that set up many rotary conveyor lines, the overall structure of the production system is significantly simplified, the number of production lines and fixtures is reduced, the complexity of the manufacturing process is reduced, and the production efficiency is improved. It solves the problem in the prior art production system that the production line and fixtures need to be changed when the main body of the component changes processing steps, which leads to a complicated and inefficient manufacturing process.

[0036] Exemplary System

[0037] Please refer to the attached document. Figure 1-9The production system provided in the embodiments of this application includes at least a general-purpose conveyor line 6 and a combined fixture. The combined fixture includes a general-purpose fixture 1 and an auxiliary fixture. The general-purpose fixture 1 is used to clamp the main body of a component, such as the main body of a battery—the battery cell. The auxiliary fixture is used to clamp the parts to be attached to the main body of the component or the processing aids that need to contact the main body of the component, such as the battery adapter, top cover, and processing aids required in some processes. Furthermore, in this application, the general-purpose fixture 1 and the auxiliary fixture can be assembled together or separated. For example, they can be detached or separated (i.e., two independent components). As a preferred embodiment, the general-purpose fixture 1 and the auxiliary fixture are two independent components that can be assembled together or separated for easy independent movement. One or more auxiliary fixtures can be provided. Any one of the multiple auxiliary fixtures can be assembled with the general-purpose fixture 1 individually. In other words, the general-purpose fixture 1 can be combined with multiple auxiliary fixtures separately.

[0038] Thus, the main body of the component and the part to be attached to it are fixed by two independently configured fixtures: a general fixture 1 and an auxiliary fixture. The general fixture 1 and the auxiliary fixture can be assembled and disassembled. When the general fixture 1 and the auxiliary fixture are assembled, the main body of the component and the part to be attached are positioned correctly for production. After production is complete, the auxiliary fixture releases its grip on the part to be attached, separating from the general fixture 1. The general fixture 1 can then move the main body of the component directly to the next processing station without changing fixtures. It can also be assembled with the auxiliary fixture of the next process for further processing. Once this process is completed, the general fixture 1 can move the main body of the component directly to the next processing stage. The main body of the component undergoes process flow without the need for fixture changes or transportation.

[0039] Therefore, the conveyor line in this application is a general-purpose conveyor line 6, and only one such line can be set up. Multiple different processing stations are set up on this same general-purpose conveyor line 6, such as welding stations, dust removal stations 605, adhesive application stations, inspection stations 606, etc. (or other stations), integrating multiple processing steps onto one general-purpose conveyor line 6. At least some stations are equipped with auxiliary fixtures; in other words, multiple auxiliary fixtures are provided and distributed across different stations. The general-purpose fixture 1 for fixing the main body of the component is set up on the general-purpose conveyor line 6. Under the conveying action of the general-purpose conveyor line 6, the general-purpose fixture 1 carries the main body of the component sequentially through multiple stations where different processing and manufacturing processes are performed. The general-purpose jig 1 carries the main body of the component along the general-purpose conveyor line 6. At the workstations with auxiliary jigs in the multiple processing steps, it can be assembled with the auxiliary jig of the workstation to meet the position matching requirements of the main body of the component and the part to be received, so that the production of the process can be carried out. After the production is completed, it separates from the auxiliary jig of the workstation, and the general-purpose conveyor line 6 continues to transport the general-purpose jig 1, so that the main body of the component can continue to enter the workstation of the next production process along the general-purpose conveyor line 6.

[0040] With this setup, the main body of the component can be rapidly transferred between different processing stations via a universal fixture 1 and a universal conveyor line 6. It can move continuously from the first processing station to the last processing station on a non-stop universal conveyor line 6 (meaning there is no need to switch conveyor lines, not necessarily continuous movement). By sequentially assembling and separating with auxiliary fixtures at different stations, the processing of each process can be completed in sequence. Under the clamping of the same fixture and the conveyor line, most or even all operations that need to be processed on the main body of the component can be completed. Throughout the process, the main body of the component does not need to switch production lines or fixtures, which significantly simplifies the overall structure of the production system, reduces the number of production lines and fixtures, reduces the complexity of the manufacturing process, and improves production efficiency. This solves the problem in the existing production system where the main body of the component needs to change production lines and fixtures when switching processing steps, resulting in a cumbersome and inefficient manufacturing process.

[0041] The assembly and separation of the general-purpose fixture 1 and the auxiliary fixture can be either detachably connected or set as independent components. In the embodiment with a detachable connection, the general-purpose fixture 1 and the auxiliary fixture can be assembled together first, and then separated by a disassembly mechanism. To improve manufacturing efficiency, in a preferred embodiment, the general-purpose fixture 1 and the auxiliary fixture are set as independent components. They can be assembled by bringing them close together, and separated by moving them apart.

[0042] In some cases, the component to be connected needs to be fixed to the middle or non-edge position of the main body of the component. This is why a fixture is used in the prior art to fix the main body of the component and the component to be connected separately. In this application, to solve this problem, the general fixture 1 is provided with a fitting space 101 for accommodating the auxiliary fixture. When the auxiliary fixture enters the fitting space 101, the position matching requirements of the component to be connected and the main body of the component can be met. When the auxiliary fixture leaves the fitting space 101, the two fixtures can be separated.

[0043] When the fitting space 101 extends to the edge of the universal fixture 1 and has an opening on the edge, the auxiliary fixture and the universal fixture 1 are close together. The auxiliary fixture can be inserted into the fitting space 101 from one side of the universal fixture 1. Alternatively, the auxiliary fixture and the universal fixture 1 are close together in the thickness direction, and the auxiliary fixture moves vertically relative to the fitting space 101, inserting into the fitting space 101 from directly above or directly below it. When the fitting space 101 does not extend to the edge of the universal fixture 1 and does not have an opening on the edge, the auxiliary fixture and the universal fixture 1 are close together in the thickness direction, and the auxiliary fixture inserts into the fitting space 101 from directly above or directly below it.

[0044] At a workstation equipped with an auxiliary fixture, the assembly and separation of the general-purpose fixture 1 and the auxiliary fixture can be achieved by either moving the general-purpose fixture 1 closer to or further away from the auxiliary fixture, or by moving the auxiliary fixture closer to or further away from the general-purpose fixture 1. In some embodiments, the production system is further provided with a conveying fixture, which can be used to drive the general-purpose fixture 1 to move closer to or further away from the auxiliary fixture, or to drive the auxiliary fixture closer to or further away from the general-purpose fixture 1.

[0045] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, a general-purpose fixture 1 is set on a general-purpose conveyor line 6 and moves along the general-purpose conveyor line 6. Multiple workstations are arranged along the extension direction of the general-purpose conveyor line 6. At some workstations, auxiliary fixtures are set on one side, above, or below the general-purpose conveyor line 6 and are matched with conveying fixtures. The conveying fixtures drive the auxiliary fixtures to approach the general-purpose fixture 1 located on the general-purpose conveyor line 6, so that the auxiliary fixtures and general-purpose fixture 1 are assembled together. After the production processing at this workstation is completed, the auxiliary fixtures are driven away from the general-purpose fixture 1 located on the general-purpose conveyor line 6 by the conveying fixtures, so that the general-purpose fixture 1 and the auxiliary fixtures are separated. The general-purpose fixture 1 can then continue to move along the general-purpose conveyor line 6 to the next workstation.

[0046] With this setup, the universal fixture 1 only needs to be moved by the universal conveyor line 6, without needing to move in other directions on the universal conveyor line 6 or at any station. This facilitates a simplified structural setup. Once the universal fixture 1 is separated from the auxiliary fixture, it can continue to move to the next station. The return loading of the auxiliary fixture and the movement of the universal fixture 1 can be carried out simultaneously, which can further improve the turnover speed and production efficiency.

[0047] Because the component body does not require changing fixtures, conveyor lines, or handling during the entire manufacturing process, it can move along the same uninterrupted universal conveyor line 6 using the same universal fixture 1, thus improving production efficiency by allowing it to flow between multiple workstations in different processes. Furthermore, the universal conveyor line 6 can also be a circulating conveyor line, allowing the universal fixture 1 to circulate and be reused. For example, a circulating conveyor line includes a production conveyor section 61, a return section 62, and a transfer section 63. The production conveyor section 61 transports the universal fixture 1, allowing it to receive the component body and move it between multiple workstations to complete various processing steps such as welding, dust removal, gluing, and inspection. At the unloading station 609, the processed component body is unloaded (e.g., a robotic arm or other unloading mechanism removes the component body from the universal fixture 1). The return section 62 is used to return the universal fixture 1 after the component body has been unloaded, i.e., the empty universal fixture 1, moving it back to the starting workstation of the production conveyor section 61. In this way, the universal fixture 1 can be circulated and reused, and can always stay on the universal conveyor line 6, without the need for handling during material receiving and unloading.

[0048] The circulating conveyor line can be an integral ring conveyor line. The beginning and end of the return section 62 have arc-shaped sections. The production conveyor section 61 is connected through the arc-shaped sections, so that the general fixture 1 can turn and move in a circumferential direction from the production conveyor section 61 to the return section 62, and also from the return section 62 to the production conveyor section 61.

[0049] In some embodiments, the circulating conveyor line can be a modular ring conveyor line. The return section 62 includes a main section and transfer sections 63 located at both ends of the main section. The transfer section 63 at the end receives the empty general-purpose fixture 1 transported from the general-purpose conveyor line 6 and transports it to the return main section. The transfer section 63 at the beginning receives the empty general-purpose fixture 1 transported from the main section and transports it to the production conveyor section 61. For example, the production conveyor section 61 and the return section 62 are arranged along the height direction to form a two-layer conveyor structure, and the two transfer sections 63 are lifting conveyor platforms that can both lift and transport horizontally.

[0050] The sections of the above-mentioned various conveyor lines can all include power components such as motors and conveying components such as conveyor belts and conveyor chains. When the transfer section 63 has a lifting function, the conveying components can be set on the lifting mechanism.

[0051] This production system can be used in many fields. Taking battery production as an example, when this production system is applied to battery production, the general-purpose jig 1 is used to clamp the battery cells, the general-purpose conveyor line 6 is used to transport the battery cells, and the auxiliary jig can be used to clamp the parts to be attached to the battery cells, such as top covers, adapter plates, etc., or it can be an auxiliary processing part.

[0052] The multiple stations on the general conveyor line 6 can include any combination of the following: loading station 601, welding station, adhesive application station, dust removal station 605, inspection station 606, and unloading station 609. Of course, in a preferred embodiment, all of the above stations are included. At least the welding station is equipped with an auxiliary fixture. When applying adhesive to the tabs of the battery cell, since the tabs are thin sheets, they are easily wrinkled or bent, requiring auxiliary components to support at least the tab area. Therefore, the adhesive application station can also be equipped with an auxiliary fixture.

[0053] With this configuration, the battery cell production system can be equipped with only one general-purpose conveyor line 6, connecting all processing stations in series. This eliminates the need for multiple rotary production lines. By combining and separating the general-purpose fixture 1 with the auxiliary fixtures at each station, battery cells can be transported together along the same conveyor line, carried by the same general-purpose fixture 1, sequentially passing through multiple stations. Throughout the process, there is no need to switch fixtures or production lines. Compared to the existing technology where a single production system has multiple dispersed rotary production lines, the production system provided in this application significantly simplifies the overall structure of the battery cell production system, reduces the number of production lines and general-purpose fixtures, reduces the complexity of the battery cell manufacturing process, and improves production efficiency.

[0054] The general-purpose conveyor line 6 typically includes multiple stations such as a loading station 601, a welding station, a gluing station, a dust removal station 605, an inspection station 606, and a unloading station 609. The general-purpose fixture 1 is equipped with clamping components that can open and close. Both the loading station 601 and the unloading station 609 are equipped with clamping mechanisms for opening the clamping components. The loading station 601 is equipped with an clamping mechanism and a battery cell loading mechanism for moving the battery cells onto the general-purpose fixture 1. The welding station is equipped with a welding auxiliary fixture for providing welding connectors, a conveying fixture for driving the welding auxiliary fixture, an auxiliary loading mechanism for providing welding connectors, and a welding mechanism for performing welding. The gluing station is equipped with a gluing auxiliary fixture as a processing aid, a conveying fixture for driving the gluing auxiliary fixture, and a gluing mechanism. The dust removal station 605 is equipped with a dust removal device for removing dust from the battery cells. Inspection station 606 is equipped with an inspection device for inspecting welds, such as a CCD inspection device. Unloading station 609 is equipped with an opening mechanism and a cell unloading mechanism for unloading cells from the general-purpose fixture 1.

[0055] Specifically, such as Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the auxiliary fixture at the welding station is called the welding auxiliary fixture. Since the battery cell needs to be welded to the adapter plate and the top cover, the welding auxiliary fixture includes a first clamp 21 for holding the battery adapter plate and a second clamp 41 for holding the battery top cover. That is, the welding auxiliary fixture includes at least a first auxiliary fixture and a second auxiliary fixture; the first auxiliary fixture is the first clamp 21, and the second auxiliary fixture is the second clamp 41. Both the first clamp 21 and the second clamp 41 are matched with the fitting space 101 on the general-purpose fixture, i.e., their sizes are matched, and the clamping positions on the clamps are also matched with the general-purpose fixture 1. This ensures that when the clamps are located in the fitting space 101, the battery cell and the adapter plate or top cover can be in a relatively accurate matching position, allowing for direct welding without further position adjustments. Both the first clamp 21 and the second clamp 41 can be individually attached to and detached from the general-purpose fixture 1.

[0056] The first fixture 21 and the second fixture 41 can be driven by the same conveying fixture, so that the two fixtures can be engaged with the general fixture 1 respectively. That is, the same conveying fixture alternately drives at least two auxiliary fixtures to approach the general fixture 1, so that at least two auxiliary fixtures are engaged with the general fixture 1 in sequence.

[0057] Alternatively, the first conveying fixture may include a first conveying fixture 3 for driving the first clamp 21 to move, and a second conveying fixture 5 for driving the second clamp 41 to move, so that the first clamp 21 and the second clamp 41 can move independently, moving closer to or further away from the general-purpose fixture 1. In this way, the loading of the first clamp 21 and the second clamp 41 can be easily separated and set up separately, making it convenient to set them up at different workstations.

[0058] For example, such as Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the first clamp 21 and the second clamp 41 are arranged along the extension direction of the general conveyor line 6, forming the first welding station 602 and the second welding station 604. That is, the first welding station 602 is provided with the first clamp 21, the first conveying fixture 3, and the adapter plate feeding mechanism. The second welding station 604 is provided with the second clamp 41, the second conveying fixture 5, and the top cover feeding mechanism.

[0059] Of course, in some other embodiments, the multiple welding auxiliary fixtures may not be arranged along the extension direction of the general conveyor line 6, but may be arranged along other directions that form an angle with the extension direction of the general conveyor line 6. For example, the general conveyor line 6 extends along a first horizontal direction, and the first fixture 21 and the second fixture 41 are arranged along a second horizontal direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the general conveyor line 6 (they may be located on one side of the general conveyor line 6 or distributed on both sides of the general conveyor line 6), or arranged along a vertical direction or other inclined direction. In this way, only one welding station needs to be set up, and when the general fixture 1 is on the welding station, the multiple welding auxiliary fixtures are sequentially assembled and separated from the general fixture 1.

[0060] Adhesive needs to be applied to the tabs of the battery cell. An auxiliary fixture, called an adhesive application auxiliary fixture, can be provided at the adhesive application station as a processing aid. In some embodiments, adhesive needs to be applied to both the upper and lower surfaces of the tabs. The adhesive application station may include a lower adhesive application station 603 and an upper adhesive application station 607 arranged along the general conveyor line 6. At least two adhesive application auxiliary fixtures are provided, respectively located at the lower adhesive application station 603 and the upper adhesive application station 607. Specifically, the adhesive application auxiliary fixture at the lower adhesive application station 603 includes or is a pressing member 7 for pressing the tab portion of the battery cell. The adhesive application auxiliary fixture at the upper adhesive application station 607 includes or is a support member for supporting the tab portion of the battery cell.

[0061] In some embodiments, the top surface adhesive application is divided into two parts: one part covers the upper surface of the electrode tab and the adapter plate to strengthen the connection between the electrode tab and the adapter plate, and the other part covers the end of the adapter plate and part of the top cover to strengthen the connection between the adapter plate and the top cover. The adhesive application station may include a lower adhesive application station 603 for applying adhesive to the lower surface of the battery cell electrode tab, and an upper adhesive application station 607 and a flexible connection adhesive application station 608 for applying adhesive to the upper surface of the battery cell electrode tab. In this embodiment, adhesive application auxiliary fixtures are respectively provided on the lower adhesive application station 603, the upper adhesive application station 607, and the flexible connection adhesive application station 608. Alternatively, it can be said that adhesive application auxiliary fixtures are provided on the lower adhesive application station 603, the upper adhesive application station 607, and the flexible connection adhesive application station 608. The auxiliary fixture for the adhesive application station 607 is a first support member 8 used to support the tab part of the battery cell, and the auxiliary fixture for the flexible connection adhesive application station 608 is a second support member 9 used to support the top cover.

[0062] The conveying fixtures for conveying the various adhesive application auxiliary fixtures include a third conveying fixture that drives the pressing component 7 to move, a fourth conveying fixture that drives the first support component 8 to move, and a fifth conveying fixture that drives the second support component 9 to move. Under the drive of the corresponding conveying fixtures, the pressing component 7, the first support component 8, and the second support component 9 are respectively or sequentially assembled or separated from the general fixture 1 on the general conveying line 6.

[0063] For example, the lower adhesive application station 603 is equipped with a pressing component 7, a third conveying fixture for driving the pressing component 7 to move, and an adhesive application mechanism; the upper adhesive application station 607 is equipped with a first support component 8, a fourth conveying fixture for driving the first support component 8 to move, and an adhesive application mechanism; the flexible connection adhesive application station 608 is equipped with a second support component 9, a fifth conveying fixture for driving the second support component 9 to move, and an adhesive application mechanism.

[0064] In some embodiments, along the extension direction of the general conveyor line 6, the loading station 601, the first welding station 602, the lower adhesive application station 603, the second welding station 604, the dust removal station 605, the inspection station 606, the upper adhesive application station 607, the flexible connection adhesive application station 608, and the unloading station 609 are arranged sequentially. The general fixture 1 passes through each station sequentially under the conveying of the general conveyor line 6, while the auxiliary fixture is provided with five components: the first auxiliary fixture is the first clamp 21, which is provided on the first welding station 602; the second auxiliary fixture is the second clamp 41, which is provided on the second welding station 604; the third auxiliary fixture is the pressing part 7, which is provided on the lower adhesive application station 603; the fourth auxiliary fixture is the first support part 8, which is provided on the upper adhesive application station 607; and the fifth auxiliary fixture is the second support part 9, which is provided on the flexible connection adhesive application station 608.

[0065] When the universal fixture 1 moves along the universal conveyor line 6 to the loading station 601, the clamping mechanism opens the clamping assembly, and the first material handling mechanism, also known as the battery cell loading mechanism, moves the battery cell into the clamping assembly on the universal fixture 1. Then, the clamping mechanism retracts, and the clamping assembly clamps and fixes the battery cell. The universal fixture 1 then moves to the first welding station 602. The first conveying fixture 3 moves the first clamp 21 carrying the adapter piece into the fitting space 101 on the universal fixture 1, so that the first clamp 21 and the universal fixture 1 are assembled together. The adapter piece and the battery cell are matched to the positions to be welded, and then welding is performed. After the adapter piece is welded, the first clamp 21 releases its grip on the adapter piece, and then, driven by the first conveying fixture 3, it moves out of the fitting space 101 of the universal fixture 1. The general-purpose fixture 1 moves to the lower adhesive application station 603. The third conveying fixture drives the pressing component 7 to move, so that the pressing component 7 moves down from above the general-purpose conveyor line 6 to press onto the electrode tab of the battery cell (a local area of ​​the pressing component 7 matches the fitting space 101 on the general-purpose fixture 1 and can be embedded into the fitting space 101 to press the electrode tab). The adhesive application mechanism (which can be referred to as the first adhesive application mechanism) moves the adhesive paper upward from below the general-purpose conveyor line 6 and applies it to the lower surface of the electrode tab and the adapter piece, connecting the electrode tab and the adapter piece.

[0066] Then, the pressing part 7 is removed, and the general-purpose fixture 1, carrying the battery cell, moves to the second welding station 604. The second conveying fixture 5 moves the second clamp 41, carrying the top cover, into the fitting space 101 of the general-purpose fixture 1, so that the second clamp 41 and the general-purpose fixture 1 are assembled together, the top cover and the battery cell are aligned, and welding is performed. After welding, the second clamp 41 releases its grip on the top cover and moves away under the drive of the second conveying fixture 5. The general-purpose fixture 1, carrying the battery cell with the top cover, moves to the dust removal station 605. The dust removal device removes dust from the battery cell, and then the general-purpose fixture 1, carrying the battery cell, moves to the inspection station 606. The inspection device inspects the battery cell, for example, by inspecting the weld quality. After inspection, the general-purpose fixture 1, carrying the battery cell, moves to the adhesive application station 607.

[0067] The fourth conveying fixture drives the first support member 8 to move upward from below the general conveyor line 6 until it is in contact with the top cover (a local area of ​​the first support member 8 matches the fitting space 101 on the general fixture 1 and can be embedded in the fitting space 101 to fit the top cover), thus supporting the electrode tab and adapter area by supporting the top cover. The adhesive applicator (which can be referred to as the second adhesive applicator) moves the adhesive paper downward from above the general conveyor line 6 and applies it to the upper surface of the electrode tab and adapter. Then the first support is removed, and the adhesive application is completed. The general fixture 1 moves with the battery cell to the flexible connection adhesive application station 608. The fifth conveying fixture drives the second support member 9 to assemble with the general fixture 1, that is, drives the second support member 9 to move upward from below the general conveyor line 6 until it is in contact with the top cover. The adhesive applicator moves the adhesive paper downward from above the general conveyor line 6 and applies it to the upper surface of the adapter and top cover. Then, the second support member 9 is removed, the general fixture 1 moves to the unloading station 609, the clamping mechanism of the unloading station 609 opens the clamping components on the general fixture 1, and the battery cell unloading mechanism takes out the battery cell.

[0068] At this point, the processing steps for the battery cell are complete. It is evident that the battery cell can undergo multiple processing steps via a single universal fixture 1 and a single universal conveyor line 6. During manufacturing, there is no need to switch fixtures holding the battery cell, switch conveyor lines, or handle the battery cell, significantly improving production efficiency.

[0069] To improve manufacturing efficiency, at workstations equipped with auxiliary fixtures, such as welding workstations, at least two sets of auxiliary fixtures can be set up for alternating use. One set supports the components connected to the battery cell, while the other set is combined with the general fixture 1.

[0070] For example, at least two sets of first clamps 21 are provided, and the first conveying fixture 3 drives at least two sets of first clamps 21 to alternately approach the general fixture 1, so that at least two sets of first clamps 21 are used alternately. Similarly, at least two sets of second clamps 41 can also be provided, and the second conveying fixture 5 drives at least two sets of second clamps 41 to alternately approach the general fixture 1, so that at least two sets of second clamps 41 are used alternately.

[0071] In some embodiments, the first conveying fixture 3 includes a first power unit that drives the first clamp 21 to move in a first direction, and a second power unit that drives the first clamp 21 to move in a second direction. Thus, the first clamp 21 can move in both directions, facilitating the alternating use of different first clamps 21, and allowing it to avoid interference with other components during movement.

[0072] For example, the first conveying fixture 3 includes a first power mechanism for driving the first clamp 21 to move along a first horizontal direction or a second horizontal direction, and a first lifting mechanism for driving the first clamp 21 to move up and down. Alternatively, the first conveying fixture 3 may include a first power mechanism for driving the first clamp 21 to move along a first horizontal direction and a second power mechanism for driving the first clamp 21 to move along a second horizontal direction.

[0073] Similarly, the second conveying fixture 5 includes a first power unit that drives the first clamp 21 to move along a first direction, and a second power unit that drives the first clamp 21 to move along a second direction. However, during the top cover loading process, interference may easily occur with the adapter piece already welded to the battery cell. Therefore, in a preferred embodiment, the second conveying fixture 5 includes a second power mechanism that drives the second clamp 41 to move along a horizontal first or second direction, and a second lifting mechanism that drives the second clamp 41 to move up and down.

[0074] In some embodiments, the first clamp 21 and the first lifting mechanism 22 are arranged one-to-one to form a first clamp unit 2. The first power mechanism includes a first drive device, a first transmission assembly, and a second transmission assembly 33. The first drive device 31 is connected to at least two sets of first clamp units 2 through the first transmission assembly 32 and the second transmission assembly 33, respectively, so that at least two sets of first clamp units 2 are distributed on different transmission assemblies. For example, at least one set of first clamp units 2 is arranged on the first transmission assembly 32, and at least one set of first clamp units 2 is arranged on the second transmission assembly 33, so that at least two sets of first clamp units 2 can move in opposite directions.

[0075] When the first transmission component 32 moves the first set of first clamping units 2 to the receiving position, the second transmission component 33 moves the second set of first clamping units 2 in the opposite direction, moving them to the welding position (the position opposite to the fitting space 101, and directly below the fitting space 101). After the first clamping unit 2 moves to the welding position, the first lifting mechanism 22 drives the first clamping unit to move upward, allowing it to engage with the general-purpose fixture 1. After welding, the first clamping unit descends and disengages from the fitting space 101. Then, when the second transmission component 33 moves the second set of first clamping units 2 away from the welding position, the first transmission component 32 moves the first set of first clamping units 2 in the opposite direction, bringing them closer to the welding position and away from the receiving position.

[0076] Thus, the first lifting mechanism 22 and the first clamp are set up one-to-one, forming a first clamp unit 2 that can move as a whole. At least two sets of first clamp units 2 can quickly alternate between the receiving position and the welding position by moving in opposite directions. When the first clamp unit 2 moves to the welding position, the first lifting mechanism 22 drives the first clamp to rise and fall, thereby completing the engagement and disengagement with the general fixture 1. The overall design is smooth, simple, and fast, which helps to improve efficiency. At the same time, the first clamps can not only be used alternately to improve efficiency, but also the requirement for two sets of first clamp units 2 to move in opposite directions can be met by only one drive source, which can simplify the structure, reduce the space occupation requirement, and facilitate the layout.

[0077] In every two sets, or any two sets, of the first clamping units 2 that move in the opposite direction, the two sets of first clamps are arranged along the direction of movement, and at least one of the two sets of first lifting mechanisms 22 is located on the side of the first clamp perpendicular to the direction of movement, so that a clearance space is formed below the first clamp. Figure 8 As shown, the first lifting mechanism 22 and the first clamp can be arranged in an inverted L-shape. This creates a clearance space directly below the first clamp, allowing another set of first clamp units 2 to pass through. In this way, when one of the two sets of first clamps moves up and down, it can avoid the other set of first clamps in terms of height, and when moving horizontally, it can smoothly achieve reverse staggered movement between the two sets.

[0078] Alternatively, the two sets of first lifting mechanisms 22 can be positioned on opposite sides of the direction of movement to avoid interference. For example, one set of first lifting mechanisms 22 can be located on the first side of the first clamping fixture perpendicular to the direction of movement (e.g., the left side), and the other set can be located on the second side of the second clamping fixture perpendicular to the direction of movement (e.g., the right side). The two sets of first lifting mechanisms 22 are positioned on opposite sides, spaced apart.

[0079] Similarly, the second conveying fixture can also be designed with the same structure to simplify the structure and reduce space occupation. For example... Figure 9 As shown, the second clamp and the second lifting mechanism are arranged one-to-one to form the second clamp unit 4. The second power mechanism of the second conveying fixture includes a second drive device 51, a third transmission assembly 52, and a fourth transmission assembly 53. The second drive device 51 is connected to at least two sets of second clamp units 4 through the third transmission assembly 52 and the fourth transmission assembly 53, so that at least two sets of second clamp units 4 are distributed on different transmission assemblies. For example, at least one set of second clamp units 4 is arranged on the third transmission assembly 52, and at least one set of second clamp units 4 is arranged on the fourth transmission assembly 53, so that at least two sets of second clamp units 4 can move in opposite directions.

[0080] In every two sets, or any two sets, of the second clamping units 4 that move in the opposite direction, the two sets of second clamps are arranged along the direction of movement. At least one of the two sets of second lifting mechanisms is located on the side of the second clamp perpendicular to the direction of movement. For example, the second lifting mechanism and the second clamp 41 can be arranged in an inverted L-shape to create a clearance space below the second clamp 41, allowing another set of second clamping units 4 to pass through. When the third transmission assembly 52 drives the first set of second clamps 41 to the receiving position, the fourth transmission assembly 53 drives the second set of second clamping units 4 to move in the opposite direction to the welding position, and then engages and disengages with the general fixture 1 under the action of the second lifting mechanism. When the fourth transmission assembly 53 drives the second set of second clamping units 4 away from the welding position, the third transmission assembly 52 drives the first set of second clamping units 4 to move in the opposite direction, moving closer to the welding position and away from the receiving position.

[0081] Taking the first conveying fixture as an example, the moving direction of the moving end of the second transmission component 33 is parallel to and opposite to the moving direction of the moving end of the first transmission component 32. Specifically, as follows... Figure 6 As shown, the first transmission assembly 32 can be a lead screw and nut assembly or a transmission belt assembly. The first clamping unit 2 includes a base 23, a first lifting mechanism 22 is mounted on the base 23, and a first clamp is mounted on the drive end of the first lifting mechanism 22. The base 23 of the first clamping unit 2, which is connected to the first transmission assembly 32, is connected to a transmission component of the first transmission assembly 32, such as a nut in a lead screw and nut assembly or a transmission belt in a transmission belt assembly. It moves under the drive of the first driving device 31.

[0082] The second transmission assembly 33 includes a first connector 331 and a first transmission belt 332. One of the upward and downward sections of the first transmission belt 332 is connected to the first drive device 31 via the first connector 331, and the other is connected to the base 23 of the second set of first clamping units 2. Thus, driven by the first drive device 31, the first connector 331 moves the upward or downward section of the first transmission belt 332 in the same direction as the first transmission assembly 32, while the downward or upward section of the first transmission belt 332 moves the second set of first clamping units 2 in the opposite direction to the first set of first clamping units 2. This achieves the effect of driving at least two sets of first clamping units 2 to move in opposite directions using a single power source.

[0083] Similarly, the structural configurations of the third transmission assembly 52 and the fourth transmission assembly 53 can be the same as those of the first transmission assembly and the second transmission assembly.

[0084] The second clamping unit 4 includes a base, a second lifting mechanism is mounted on the base, and a second clamp 41 is mounted on the drive end of the second lifting mechanism. The second clamping unit 4 is connected to the third transmission assembly 52, and its base is connected to the transmission component of the third transmission assembly 52, such as the nut in the lead screw nut assembly or the transmission belt in the transmission belt assembly, and moves under the drive of the second drive device 51.

[0085] The fourth transmission assembly 53 includes a second connector 531 and a second transmission belt 532. One of the upward and downward sections of the second transmission belt 532 is connected to the second drive device 51 via the second connector 531, and the other is connected to the base 23 of another set of second clamping units 4. Thus, driven by the second drive device 51, the second connector 531 drives the upward or downward section of the second transmission belt 532 to move in the same direction as the third transmission assembly 52 and the first set of second clamping units 4, while the downward or upward section of the first transmission belt 532 moves in the opposite direction, causing the second set of first clamping units 2 to move in the opposite direction to the first set of first clamping units 2.

[0086] Of course, in other embodiments, the second transmission component 33 and the fourth transmission component 53 may also be other structures, such as a linkage structure, in which the third linkage moves in the opposite direction when the first linkage moves in the forward direction, driven by the second linkage.

[0087] The driving devices in both the first lifting mechanism 22 and the second lifting mechanism can be cylinders or motors, etc. For example, they can be a combination of cylinders and guide rails, or a combination of motors and lead screws.

[0088] In some embodiments, on the general fixture 1, two sets of clamping components form a unit, and in each unit, there is a gap between the two sets of clamping components, the gap forming a fitting space 101 for accommodating the auxiliary fixture.

[0089] On the general-purpose fixture 1, the clamping assembly includes at least one set of openable and closable clamping baffles. To prevent the battery cell from tilting and to ensure the positioning accuracy of the battery cell, the clamping assembly includes two sets of openable and closable clamping baffles.

[0090] In some embodiments, the clamping assembly includes a first baffle 102, a limiting baffle 104, and a second baffle 103. The first baffle 102 has at least two spaced apart and opposite each other along a first direction, and is movable along the first direction such that at least two of the first baffles 102 can open and close. The second baffle 103 and the limiting baffle 104 are spaced apart along a second direction, and the second baffle 103 is movable along the second direction such that the second baffle 103 and the limiting baffle 104 can open and close.

[0091] The fitting space 101 is located on one side of the clamping assembly and between the two sets of clamping assemblies. For example... Figure 5As shown, the fitting space 101 is located in the second direction, between the two limiting baffles 104. The limiting baffles 104 may partially protrude above the fitting space 101.

[0092] Therefore, the limiting baffle 104 is moved along the second direction. In this way, when the top cover and the battery cell are welded together, the limiting baffle 104 can avoid interference with the top cover and prevent the battery cell from being removed.

[0093] In some embodiments, the limiting baffle 104 is linked to the first baffle 102. When two limiting baffles 104 are arranged at intervals along a first direction, the limiting baffles 104 and the first baffles 102 are connected one-to-one. When the first baffles 102 move and cause the two first baffles 102 to open, the limiting baffles 104 move accordingly, completely moving out of the fitting space 101 to avoid interference with the removal of the battery cell. In this way, the structure can be simplified, and there is no need to set up an additional power mechanism due to the movement of the limiting baffles 104.

[0094] The opening and closing of the clamping components is achieved through an opening mechanism. This opening mechanism is separate from the general-purpose fixture 1. Thus, the general-purpose fixture 1 has no power components, eliminating the need for wiring and piping, facilitating movement and transfer between different processes. The opening mechanism is located beside the general-purpose conveyor line 6 and is installed at the loading station 601 and the unloading station 609. The resetting of the baffle is achieved using an elastic reset component, such as a spring.

[0095] Embodiments of this application also provide a battery manufacturing method applicable to the production system described in the above embodiments. The battery manufacturing method includes the following steps (not limited in order):

[0096] S01, a cell clamping position and a fitting space 101 are provided on the general fixture 1;

[0097] The cell clamping position is used to clamp the cell, and the fitting space 101 is used for the insertion of auxiliary fixtures;

[0098] S02, multiple workstations are set up along the conveying direction of the same general conveyor line 6;

[0099] Multiple workstations include a loading workstation 601, a first welding workstation, a second welding workstation, a dust removal workstation 605, an inspection workstation 606, an adhesive application workstation, and a unloading workstation 609; or, multiple workstations sequentially include a loading workstation 601, a first welding workstation 602, an unloading adhesive application workstation 603, a second welding workstation 604, a dust removal workstation 605, an inspection workstation 606, an upper adhesive application workstation 607, a flexible connector adhesive application workstation 608, and an unloading workstation 609.

[0100] S03, a first auxiliary fixture is set at the first welding station. The first auxiliary fixture is a first clamp for holding the adapter piece. A second auxiliary fixture is set at the second welding station. The second auxiliary fixture is a second clamp for holding the top cover.

[0101] S04, a first clamp 21 for clamping the adapter piece and a first conveying fixture 3 for driving the first clamp 21 to move are provided at the first welding station 602, and a second clamp 41 for clamping the top cover and a second conveying fixture 5 for driving the second clamp 41 to move are provided at the second welding station 604.

[0102] S05, place the general fixture on the general conveyor line, for example, place it at the loading station 601, and place the battery cell in the battery cell clamping position on the general fixture 1 (i.e., perform battery cell loading, so that the general fixture 1 clamps the battery cell).

[0103] S06, causing the general conveyor line 6 to transport the general fixture 1 to the first welding station 602;

[0104] S07, the first clamp 21 holding the adapter piece is moved into the fitting space 101 on the general fixture 1 located at the first welding station 602, so that the first clamp 21 is located at the head end of the battery cell, and the adapter piece contacts the electrode tab of the battery cell to complete the position matching.

[0105] S08, welding the adapter plate and the electrode of the battery cell to connect the adapter plate and the electrode, for example, by activating the welding head of the welding mechanism, such as a laser, to perform welding;

[0106] S09, the first clamp 21 releases its grip on the adapter piece and moves out of the fitting space 101 on the universal fixture 1, for example, returning to the bottom or side of the universal conveyor line 6 to receive a new adapter piece.

[0107] S14, so that the general conveyor line 6 continues to convey the general fixture 1 (the battery cell on the general fixture 1 already has an adapter piece) and conveys it to the second welding station 604;

[0108] S15, the second clamp 41 holding the top cover is moved into the fitting space 101 of the universal fixture 1 on the universal conveyor line 6, so that the top cover contacts the adapter piece and completes the position matching;

[0109] S16, Weld the adapter plate and the top cover to connect the top cover and the adapter plate (after welding, the welding mechanism is removed or returned to its original position);

[0110] S17, the second clamp 41 releases its grip on the top cover and moves out of the fitting space 101 on the general-purpose fixture 1.

[0111] S18 enables the general conveyor line 6 to continue conveying the general fixture 1 and to the next workstation.

[0112] With this setup, when using this battery manufacturing method to manufacture batteries, during the processing of the battery cells, multiple auxiliary fixtures move to assemble and separate from the general fixture, respectively. This allows the battery cells to complete multiple processing steps by being transported by a single general fixture 1 along the same uninterrupted general conveyor line 6. Compared with the prior art, which requires handling the battery cells, changing the fixtures and conveyor lines every time a process is switched, the manufacturing process does not require switching the fixtures holding the battery cells, changing the conveyor lines, or handling the battery cells, thus significantly improving production efficiency.

[0113] In battery manufacturing, not only do adapter plates and top covers need to be welded onto the battery cell, but adhesive also needs to be applied. To ensure the quality of the adhesive application, dust removal is required, and the welding quality also needs to be inspected. Therefore, in some embodiments, the manufacturing method includes the following steps:

[0114] The general-purpose fixture 1 moves on the general-purpose conveyor line 6 and passes sequentially through the loading station 601, the first welding station 602, the lower adhesive application station 603, the second welding station 604, the dust removal station 605, the inspection station 606, the upper adhesive application station 607, the flexible connection adhesive application station 608, and the unloading station 609 of the general-purpose conveyor line 6.

[0115] With this setup, it is clear that the battery cell can pass through multiple workstations with different processing steps on the same general conveyor line 6, completing various processing steps.

[0116] An auxiliary fixture may also be provided at the adhesive application station; therefore, in some embodiments, the manufacturing method includes the following steps:

[0117] A third auxiliary fixture is provided on the lower adhesive application station 603. The third auxiliary fixture is a pressing component 7 used for pressing the tab part of the battery cell.

[0118] A fourth auxiliary fixture is provided on the adhesive application station 607. The fourth auxiliary fixture is a first support member 8 used to support the tab part of the battery cell.

[0119] A fifth auxiliary fixture is provided at the flexible connection adhesive application station 608. The fifth auxiliary fixture is a second support member 9 used to support the top cover.

[0120] Therefore, in some embodiments, the manufacturing method further includes the following steps:

[0121] S10, before the general conveyor line 6 conveys the general fixture 1 to the second welding station 604, the general fixture 1 is first conveyed from the first welding station 602 to the lower adhesive application station 603.

[0122] S11, the pressing part 7 located at the lower adhesive application station 603 is moved down and at least partially embedded in the fitting space 101 on the general fixture 1 to press the electrode tab and the adapter piece of the battery cell.

[0123] S12, the adhesive applicator applies adhesive to the lower surface of the electrode tab and the adapter piece from below the general fixture 1. After the adhesive application is completed, the adhesive applicator returns to its original position.

[0124] S13, causing the general conveyor line 6 to move the general fixture 1 from the lower adhesive application station 603 to the second welding station 604.

[0125] In this way, the production process of the battery cell is more reasonable and smoother. After the lower surface of the tab is glued, the top cover is welded. The general-purpose jig moves sequentially along the first welding station, the lower glue application station and the second welding station, which is more reasonable, smoother and more efficient.

[0126] After the second welding station, the general-purpose fixture continues to pass through subsequent stations sequentially via a general-purpose conveyor line. For example, this manufacturing method also includes the following steps:

[0127] S19, causing the general conveyor line 6 to transport the general fixture 1 from the second welding station 604 to the dust removal station 605;

[0128] S20, use a dust removal device to remove dust from the battery cells on the general fixture 1;

[0129] S21, causing the general conveyor line 6 to transport the general fixture 1 from the general conveyor line to the inspection station 606;

[0130] S22, Use a testing device to inspect the welds on the battery cell;

[0131] S23, causing the general conveyor line 6 to transport the general fixture 1 to the upper adhesive application station 607;

[0132] S24, the first support member 8 at the upper adhesive application station 607 is moved upward and at least partially embedded in the fitting space 101 on the universal fixture 1 to support the top cover on the universal fixture.

[0133] S25, which causes the adhesive applicator to apply adhesive to the upper surface of the tab and adapter from above the general fixture;

[0134] S26, causing the general conveyor line 6 to transport the general fixture 1 to the flexible connection adhesive application station 608;

[0135] S27, the second support 9 at the upper adhesive application station is moved upward and at least partially embedded in the fitting space 101 on the universal fixture 1 to support the top cover on the universal fixture;

[0136] S28, which causes the adhesive applicator to apply adhesive to the upper surface of the adapter and the top cover from above the general fixture;

[0137] S29, causing the general conveyor line 6 to transport the general fixture 1 from the flexible connection adhesive application station 608 to the unloading station 609;

[0138] S30 causes the cell unloading mechanism to remove the cell from the general fixture 1.

[0139] As can be seen, the entire battery manufacturing process, including cell-related processes, can be carried out through a single conveyor line, a universal fixture for clamping the cells, and the combination and separation of multiple mobile auxiliary fixtures with the universal fixture. This enables continuous processing at multiple workstations (during the entire processing, the cells do not need to be moved, the fixtures do not need to be changed, and the conveyor line does not need to be changed), significantly improving production efficiency.

[0140] The assembly of the auxiliary fixture and the general fixture requires the conveying fixture to move close to the general fixture 1 on the general conveyor line 6 and embed into the fitting space 101 under the drive of the conveying fixture. The pressing part 7 moves down from above the general conveyor line 6, while the first support part 8 and the second support part 9 move up from below the general conveyor line 6.

[0141] The first clamp 21 can be moved from one side or below the general conveyor line, while the second clamp 41 is preferably moved upward from below the general conveyor line 6. For example, the manufacturing method further includes the following steps:

[0142] After receiving the transfer piece at the receiving position, the first clamp 21 moves to the feeding position, and then rises or moves horizontally to enter the fitting space 101 from below or one side of the general fixture 1 and fits with the general fixture 1.

[0143] The first clamp 21 is moved down from the feeding position or moved to one side to separate from the general fixture 1, and then moved to the receiving position;

[0144] After receiving the adapter piece at the receiving position, the second clamp 41 moves to the feeding position and then rises, entering the fitting space 101 from below the general fixture 1 to fit with the general fixture 1.

[0145] The second clamp 41 is moved down from the feeding position to separate from the general fixture 1, and then moved horizontally to the receiving position.

[0146] In some embodiments, the manufacturing method further includes the following steps:

[0147] At least two sets of first clamps 21 are provided, such that when one set is in the receiving position to receive the transfer piece, the other set is in the feeding position and embedded in the fitting space 101 of the universal fixture 1 on the universal conveyor line 6.

[0148] At least two sets of second clamps 41 are provided, such that when one set is in the receiving position to receive the top cover, the other set is in the feeding position and is embedded in the fitting space 101 of the universal fixture 1 on the universal conveyor line 6.

[0149] For a detailed description of the specific implementation device for the alternating use of two sets of first clamps 21 or two sets of second clamps 41, please refer to the description in the other embodiments above.

[0150] Furthermore, since the universal fixture 1 can be reused, in some embodiments, the manufacturing method further includes the following steps:

[0151] The general-purpose fixture 1 is moved from the unloading station 609 to the loading station 601 for cyclical circulation.

[0152] With this setup, the general conveyor line 6 is a circulating conveyor line, and the general fixture 1 can remain on the conveyor line without being moved. It can also circulate and be reused, which helps to further improve production efficiency.

[0153] The battery manufacturing method provided in this embodiment belongs to the same concept as the production system provided in the embodiments of this application. The related devices required to execute this battery manufacturing method can be the same as those in the production system provided in this application, and thus have the beneficial effects of the production system. Technical details not described in detail in this embodiment can be found in the production system provided in the embodiments of this application, and will not be repeated here.

[0154] The basic principles of this application have been described above with reference to specific embodiments. However, it should be noted that the advantages, benefits, and effects mentioned in this application are merely examples and not limitations, and should not be considered as essential features of each embodiment of this application. Furthermore, the specific details disclosed above are for illustrative and facilitative purposes only, and are not limitations. These details do not limit the application to the necessity of employing the aforementioned specific details for implementation.

[0155] The components and devices described in this application are merely illustrative examples and are not intended to require or imply that they must be connected, arranged, or configured in the manner shown in the accompanying drawings. As those skilled in the art will recognize, these components and devices can be connected, arranged, and configured in any manner. Words such as “comprising,” “including,” “having,” etc., are open-ended terms meaning “including but not limited to,” and are used interchangeably with them. The terms “or” and “and” as used herein refer to the words “and / or,” and are used interchangeably with them unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The term “such as” as used herein refers to the phrase “such as but not limited to,” and is used interchangeably with it.

[0156] The above description of the disclosed aspects is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use this application. Various modifications to these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein can be applied to other aspects without departing from the scope of this application. Therefore, this application is not intended to be limited to the aspects shown herein, but rather to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A production system, characterized in that, include: A combination fixture includes a general fixture for clamping the main body of a component and an auxiliary fixture for clamping a part to be processed or a processing aid. The general fixture is provided with a fitting space for accommodating the auxiliary fixture. The auxiliary fixture is embedded in the fitting space and is assembled with the general fixture, or is moved out of the fitting space and is separated from the general fixture. A general-purpose conveyor line has multiple workstations along its extension direction and drives the general-purpose fixture to move. At least some workstations are equipped with the auxiliary fixtures. The general fixtures carry the main body of the component through the multiple workstations under the conveyor of the general conveyor line, and can be combined with the auxiliary fixtures at different workstations respectively, so that the production devices at each workstation can complete the production process of the main body of the component.

2. The production system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The universal conveyor line is a circulating universal conveyor line, including: The production conveyor section transports the universal fixture so that it can move between the multiple workstations; The return section returns the unloaded general-purpose fixture to the starting position of the production conveyor section.

3. The production system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Driven by the conveying fixture, the auxiliary fixture moves closer to or further away from the general fixture located on the general conveyor line, and assembles and separates from the general fixture.

4. The production system according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The production system is a battery production system. The general-purpose fixture is used to clamp the battery cell, and the auxiliary fixture is used to clamp the component to be attached to the battery cell.

5. The production system as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The multiple workstations include a loading workstation, a welding workstation, an adhesive application workstation, a dust removal workstation, an inspection workstation, and a unloading workstation; at least the welding workstation is equipped with an auxiliary fixture that can be assembled and disassembled with the general fixture located on the general conveyor line.

6. The production system as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The auxiliary fixture at the welding station includes at least a first clamp for holding the adapter piece and a second clamp for holding the top cover. The first clamp and the second clamp are arranged in a row and both match the fitting space on the general fixture. The first fixture and the second fixture are respectively engaged or disengaged from the general-purpose fixture by alternating drive of the same conveying fixture or drive of different conveying fixtures.

7. The production system as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The first fixture and the second fixture are arranged along the extension direction of the general conveyor line, forming a first welding station and a second welding station.

8. The production system as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The adhesive application station includes a lower adhesive application station for applying adhesive to the lower surface of the battery cell tabs, an upper adhesive application station for applying adhesive to the upper surface of the battery cell tabs, and a flexible connector adhesive application station. The auxiliary fixture of the lower adhesive application station includes a pressing component for pressing the tab portion of the battery cell, the auxiliary fixture of the upper adhesive application station includes a first support component for supporting the tab portion of the battery cell, and the auxiliary fixture of the flexible connector adhesive application station includes a second support component for supporting the top cover. The pressing component, the first support component, and the second support component are respectively engaged or disengaged from the general fixture on the general conveyor line under the drive of the conveying fixture.

9. The production system as described in claim 4, characterized in that, Along the extension direction of the general conveyor line, the loading station, the first welding station, the lower adhesive application station, the second welding station, the dust removal station, the inspection station, the upper adhesive application station, the flexible connection adhesive application station, and the unloading station are arranged in sequence. The general-purpose fixture is provided with a clamping assembly that can open and close, and the loading station is provided with an opening mechanism for opening the clamping assembly and a battery cell loading mechanism for providing battery cells. The first welding station is equipped with a first fixture, a first conveying fixture for driving the first fixture to move, a transfer piece feeding mechanism for providing transfer pieces, and a welding mechanism; The lower adhesive application station is equipped with a pressing component, a third conveying fixture for driving the pressing component to move, and an adhesive application mechanism. The second welding station is equipped with a second fixture, a second conveying fixture for driving the second fixture to move, a top cover feeding mechanism for providing the top cover, and a welding mechanism; The dust removal station is equipped with a dust removal device for removing dust from the battery cells, and the testing station is equipped with a testing device for inspecting welds. The upper adhesive application station is provided with a first support member, a fourth conveying fixture for driving the first support member to move, and an adhesive application mechanism. The flexible connection adhesive application station is equipped with a second support member, a fifth conveying fixture for driving the second support member to move, and an adhesive application mechanism. The unloading station is equipped with an opening mechanism for opening the clamping assembly and a cell unloading mechanism for unloading the cells from the general-purpose fixture.

10. A method for manufacturing a battery, characterized in that, The manufacturing method, applicable to any one of claims 1-9, comprises the following steps: A cell clamping position and fitting space are set on a general-purpose fixture; Multiple workstations are set up along the same general conveyor line in the same conveying direction; A first clamp for holding the adapter piece is set at the first welding station, and a second clamp for holding the top cover is set at the second welding station. Place the universal fixture onto the universal conveyor line, and place the battery cell in the battery cell clamping position on the universal fixture; The universal conveyor line transports the universal fixture to the first welding station; The first clamp holding the adapter piece is moved into the fitting space on the universal fixture and positioned at the head end of the battery cell so that the adapter piece contacts the tab of the battery cell. Weld the adapter plate and the electrode tab of the battery cell to connect the adapter plate and the electrode tab; Release the first clamp from the adapter piece and remove it from the fitting space on the universal fixture; The universal conveyor line continues to transport the universal fixture to the second welding station; The second clamp holding the top cover is moved into the fitting space of the universal fixture so that the top cover contacts the adapter piece; The adapter plate and the top cover are welded together to connect the top cover and the adapter plate. Release the second clamp from the top cover and remove it from the fitting space on the universal fixture; The universal conveyor line continues to transport the universal fixture to the next workstation.

11. The battery manufacturing method as described in claim 10, characterized in that, It also includes the following steps: Before the universal conveyor line transports the universal fixture to the second welding station, the universal fixture is first transported from the first welding station to the lower adhesive application station. The pressing component located at the lower adhesive application station is moved down and at least partially embedded into the fitting space on the universal fixture to press the electrode tab of the battery cell and the adapter piece together; The adhesive applicator applies adhesive to the lower surfaces of the electrode tabs and the adapter piece from below the general-purpose fixture. The universal conveyor line moves the universal fixture from the lower adhesive application station to the second welding station.

12. The battery manufacturing method as described in claim 10, characterized in that, It also includes the following steps: The universal conveyor line transports the universal fixture from the second welding station to the dust removal station; Use a dust removal device to remove dust from the battery cells on the general-purpose fixture; The universal conveyor line transports the universal fixture to the testing station; The weld seams on the battery cell are inspected using a testing device; The universal conveyor line transports the universal fixture to the upper adhesive application station; The first support member at the upper adhesive application station is moved upward and at least partially embedded in the fitting space on the universal fixture to support the top cover on the universal fixture; The adhesive applicator applies adhesive to the upper surfaces of the electrode tabs and the adapter piece from above the universal fixture. The universal conveyor line transports the universal fixture to the flexible connector adhesive application station; The second support at the upper adhesive application station is moved upward and at least partially embedded in the fitting space on the universal fixture to support the top cover on the universal fixture; The adhesive applicator applies adhesive to the upper surfaces of the adapter piece and the top cover from above the universal fixture. The universal conveyor line transports the universal fixture to the unloading station; The battery cell unloading mechanism removes the battery cells from the general-purpose fixture.

13. The battery manufacturing method as described in claim 10, characterized in that, It also includes the following steps: After receiving the adapter piece at the receiving position, the first clamp moves to the feeding position, and then rises or moves horizontally to enter the fitting space from below or one side of the universal fixture and assemble with the universal fixture. The first clamp is moved down or horizontally from the feeding position to separate from the general-purpose fixture, and then horizontally moved to the receiving position; The second clamp receives the top cover from the receiving position, moves to the feeding position, and then rises to enter the fitting space from below the universal fixture and assemble with the universal fixture. The second clamp is moved down from the feeding position to separate from the general-purpose fixture, and then moved to the receiving position.

14. The battery manufacturing method as described in claim 10, characterized in that, It also includes the following steps: The first clamp is set up with at least two sets, such that when one set is in the receiving position to receive the adapter piece, the other set is in the feeding position and is embedded in the fitting space of the general fixture on the general conveyor line. At least two sets of the second clamps are provided, such that when one set is in the receiving position to receive the top cover, the other set is in the feeding position and is embedded in the fitting space of the general fixture on the general conveyor line.

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