Naked cell core impregnation device, battery preparation device, impregnation method, and preparation method

Abstract

This application discloses a bare cell immersion device, a battery fabrication apparatus, an immersion method, and a fabrication method. The bare cell immersion device includes an immersion tank and a bare cell holder. The immersion tank has an immersion space for holding electrolyte. The bare cell holder includes a bare cell receiving space for accommodating bare cells. The bare cell holder can be placed within the immersion space so that the bare cells within the receiving space are submerged in the electrolyte. This solution can improve the immersion effect of bare cells in lithium-ion batteries.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention generally relates to the field of battery manufacturing technology, and specifically to a bare cell wetting device, a battery manufacturing apparatus, a wetting method, and a manufacturing method. Background Technology

[0002] After the bare cells of a lithium-ion battery are manufactured, they need to be wetted with electrolyte. The wettability of the bare cells directly affects the electrical performance of the lithium-ion battery. Too much or too little electrolyte, or uneven wettability, will directly reduce the electrical performance of the lithium-ion battery, and in severe cases, may even affect the safety performance of the battery. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application aims to provide a battery manufacturing apparatus, a bare cell impregnation method, and a battery manufacturing method, which are at least used to improve the impregnation effect of bare cells in lithium-ion batteries.

[0004] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a bare battery cell immersion device, comprising: an immersion tank and a bare battery cell holder, wherein the immersion tank is provided with an immersion space for holding electrolyte, and the bare battery cell holder includes a bare battery cell accommodating space for accommodating bare batteries, the bare battery cell accommodating space being able to be placed within the immersion space so that the bare batteries in the bare battery cell accommodating space are immersed in the electrolyte.

[0005] As an implementation method, at least one through hole is provided on the side and / or bottom surface of the bare cell housing space.

[0006] As an implementation method, the bare cell bracket includes a bottom support, on which at least two partitions are spaced apart, and adjacent partitions and the bottom support form a bare cell accommodating space, and the partitions and / or the bottom support are provided with through holes.

[0007] As an alternative implementation, the height of the separator is less than the height of the bare cell.

[0008] As an alternative implementation, the height of the separator is 2 / 3 to 4 / 5 of the height of the bare cell.

[0009] As an implementation method, each of the bare cell accommodating spaces is provided with a plurality of through holes, and the plurality of through holes in each of the bare cell accommodating spaces are evenly arranged.

[0010] As an alternative implementation, two lateral supports are also provided at intervals on the bottom support, and each lateral support has a flange at the end away from the bottom support, the flange being used to overlap the immersion tank.

[0011] As an alternative implementation, the partition and the lateral support are located on the same side of the bottom support, and the height of the lateral support is greater than the height of the partition.

[0012] As one possible implementation, the immersion tank is provided with a first opening, and the first opening is sealed with a first cover.

[0013] As an implementation method, the first cover is provided with an exhaust port and an air injection port.

[0014] As an implementation method, the bare cell immersion device further includes an air extraction device and an air injection device;

[0015] The vacuum device is configured to evacuate the immersion tank when immersing the bare battery cell until a predetermined vacuum level is reached and maintained for a first predetermined duration.

[0016] The gas injection device is configured to inject dried gas into the impregnation tank after the vacuum device has evacuated and maintained the first predetermined time until a predetermined pressure is reached and maintained for a second predetermined time.

[0017] As an alternative method, the vacuuming device and the gas injection device are configured to alternately cycle through vacuuming and injecting dried gas until a predetermined number of cycles are reached.

[0018] As one possible implementation, a first protrusion is provided at the first opening, and the flange overlaps on the first protrusion.

[0019] As one possible implementation, the first cover sealing cap is mounted on the outer side of the first opening.

[0020] As an alternative, an ultrasonic generator is installed inside the immersion tank.

[0021] As an alternative implementation, the ultrasonic generator is disposed at the bottom of the immersion tank.

[0022] As a possible implementation, a first heating device is provided in the immersion tank.

[0023] As one possible implementation, the heating device is disposed at the bottom of the immersion tank.

[0024] As an implementation method, the immersion tank is provided with a first liquid inlet and a first liquid outlet, wherein the first liquid inlet is positioned higher than the first liquid outlet.

[0025] Secondly, the present invention provides a battery manufacturing apparatus, including the bare cell impregnation apparatus described above.

[0026] As an alternative implementation, the battery manufacturing apparatus further includes a bare cell draining device, which includes a draining tank and a draining space. The bare cell holder can be placed within the draining space so that the bare cells immersed in electrolyte within the bare cell receiving space are drained.

[0027] As an implementation method, the draining tank is provided with a second opening, and the second opening is sealed with a second cover.

[0028] As a possible implementation, a second heating device is provided inside the draining tank.

[0029] As an alternative, the second heating device is disposed at the bottom of the draining tank.

[0030] As an implementation method, a second protrusion is provided at the second opening, and the flange of the bare cell bracket is used to overlap the second protrusion.

[0031] As one possible implementation, the second cover sealing cap is mounted on the outer side of the second opening.

[0032] As an implementation method, the draining tank is provided with a second liquid inlet and a second liquid outlet, with the second liquid inlet positioned higher than the second liquid outlet.

[0033] As an alternative implementation, the battery fabrication apparatus further includes a robotic arm, which is used to grasp bare battery cells before and after electrolyte immersion and draining, and to weigh the bare battery cells before and after electrolyte immersion and draining, respectively.

[0034] As one possible implementation, the robotic arm includes a first connector and a second connector spaced apart, with a weight sensor disposed between the first connector and the second connector.

[0035] As an implementation, the second connector is provided with a first clamping member and a second clamping member opposite to each other; the first clamping member and the second clamping member are configured to clamp or release the bare battery cell when they move relative to each other.

[0036] As a possible implementation, the first clamping member may oscillate or translate relative to the second clamping member.

[0037] In one possible implementation, the first clamping member and the second clamping member are slidably engaged with the second connecting member, and the first clamping member and the second clamping member slide along the same straight line.

[0038] In one possible implementation, both the first clamping member and the second clamping member include a first clamping arm and a second clamping arm that is bent and connected to the first clamping arm, with the two second clamping arms extending toward each other.

[0039] As an implementation method, clamping pads are provided at the ends of the two second clamping arms that are close to each other.

[0040] As an implementation method, the robotic arm is configured to determine whether the amount of electrolyte immersion in the bare battery cell is qualified based on the weight of the bare battery cell before and after electrolyte immersion and draining.

[0041] If qualified, the drained bare cells are installed into the battery casing, and the cover plate is sealed to the battery casing.

[0042] If the result is not satisfactory, the bare cell will be corrected according to the relationship between the wettability of the bare cell and the target amount, so that the wettability meets the target amount.

[0043] As an alternative implementation, the battery manufacturing apparatus further includes a control unit configured to receive the weight of the bare cell before and after electrolyte immersion and draining, as measured by the robotic arm, and to determine whether the immersion amount of the bare cell is qualified based on the weight.

[0044] If qualified, the drained bare cells are installed into the battery casing, and the cover plate is sealed to the battery casing.

[0045] If the result is not satisfactory, the bare cell will be corrected according to the relationship between the wettability of the bare cell and the target amount, so that the wettability meets the target amount.

[0046] As an implementation method, the correction process for the bare battery cell based on the relationship between the wetted amount and the target amount includes: when the wetted electrolyte amount is less than the target amount, re-wetting the unqualified bare battery cell; or, after installing the unqualified bare battery cell into the battery casing, sealing the cover plate to the battery casing and injecting a predetermined amount of electrolyte into the battery casing.

[0047] When the amount of electrolyte used for wetting exceeds the target amount, the electrolyte in the unqualified bare cells is reduced until the amount of electrolyte used for wetting meets the requirements. After the reduced electrolyte is used, the bare cells are installed into the battery casing, and the cover plate is sealed to the battery casing.

[0048] As an alternative implementation, the battery manufacturing apparatus further includes an infeed guide fixture, which includes a fixture body and a guide channel within the fixture body. The guide channel includes a guide section and a positioning section connected in sequence. The guide section has a constricted structure from one end away from the positioning section to the one end near the positioning section, and the positioning section is a straight tube section.

[0049] As an implementation method, the inner contour of the straight pipe section perpendicular to its axis is consistent with the inner contour of the battery casing into which the bare cell is to be installed, perpendicular to its axis.

[0050] As a possible implementation, the side of the narrowed structure is an arc surface or a slope.

[0051] As an implementation method, the connection between the guide segment and the positioning segment is smoothly transitioned.

[0052] As one possible implementation, the tooling body includes a first sub-component and a second sub-component, which are joined together to form the guide channel.

[0053] In one possible implementation, the first sub-component and the second sub-component are symmetrical about the axis passing through the guide channel.

[0054] Thirdly, the present invention provides a method for impregnating a bare cell using the above-described bare cell impregnation apparatus or the above-described battery preparation apparatus, characterized by comprising the following steps:

[0055] The bare cells are placed one by one into the bare cell receiving space of the bare cell bracket;

[0056] The bare cell holder, after placing the bare cells, is placed in the immersion space so that the bare cells in the bare cell receiving space are immersed in the electrolyte.

[0057] As an alternative implementation, a cover plate is connected to the tab of the bare battery cell, and the cover plate is exposed above the surface of the electrolyte.

[0058] As an implementation method, during the impregnation process, the impregnation tank is evacuated until a predetermined vacuum level is reached and maintained for a first predetermined time. Then, a drying gas is injected until a predetermined pressure is reached and maintained for a second predetermined time. The steps of evacuating the vacuum and injecting the drying gas are repeated until a predetermined number of times are reached.

[0059] As an alternative method, the electrolyte is subjected to ultrasonic vibration by an ultrasonic generator while the vacuum level is maintained in the immersion tank.

[0060] As a possible approach, the ultrasonic generator is turned off at least during the process of injecting the gas into the immersion tank.

[0061] As an implementation method, the bare battery cell after being soaked in electrolyte is placed in a bare battery cell draining device for draining, and the electrolyte gas concentration in the bare battery cell draining device is kept saturated during the draining process.

[0062] As an alternative method, the electrolyte in the bare cell draining device is heated by a second heating device to cause the electrolyte in the bare cell draining device to evaporate, thereby maintaining the electrolyte gas concentration in the bare cell draining device at saturation.

[0063] Fourthly, the present invention provides a method for preparing a battery, including the above-described method for impregnating bare cells;

[0064] It also includes: using a robotic arm to grab the drained bare battery cell, and simultaneously obtaining the weight of the drained bare battery cell, and determining whether the wettability of the bare battery cell is qualified based on the weight of the bare battery cell before immersion;

[0065] If qualified, the drained bare cells are installed into the battery casing, and the cover plate is sealed to the battery casing.

[0066] If the result is not satisfactory, the bare cell will be corrected according to the relationship between the wettability of the bare cell and the target amount, so that the wettability meets the target amount.

[0067] As an implementation method, the correction process for the bare battery cell based on the relationship between the wetted amount and the target amount includes: when the wetted electrolyte amount is less than the target amount, re-wetting the unqualified bare battery cell; or, after installing the unqualified bare battery cell into the battery casing, sealing the cover plate to the battery casing and injecting a predetermined amount of electrolyte into the battery casing.

[0068] When the amount of electrolyte used for wetting exceeds the target amount, the electrolyte in the unqualified bare cells is reduced until the amount of electrolyte used for wetting meets the requirements. After the reduced electrolyte is used, the bare cells are installed into the battery casing, and the cover plate is sealed to the battery casing.

[0069] As an alternative approach, during the process of inserting the bare battery cell into the battery casing, an insertion guide fixture is provided directly above the battery casing to guide the bare battery cell so that it falls downward into the battery casing through a guide channel.

[0070] As an alternative implementation, after the bare cell has entered the battery casing to a predetermined depth, the first sub-component and the second sub-component separate from each other, so that the bare cell falls downward into the battery casing.

[0071] In the above scheme, when immersing the bare battery cells, the bare battery cells are placed in the bare battery cell receiving space of the bare battery cell holder, and then the bare battery cells are immersed in the electrolyte contained in the immersion tank through the bare battery cell holder. During the immersion process, the bare battery cells are continuously immersed in the electrolyte. Due to the large immersion power of the electrolyte caused by hydraulic action, the immersion rate is high and the immersion uniformity is high, thus improving the immersion effect. Attached Figure Description

[0072] Other features, objects, and advantages of this application will become more apparent from the following detailed description of non-limiting embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings:

[0073] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the usage state of the bare cell wetting device provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0074] Figure 2 This is a front view of the bare cell holder provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0075] Figure 3 for Figure 2 The left view;

[0076] Figure 4 for Figure 2 Top view;

[0077] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the state of bare battery cells placed in the bare battery cell holder according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0078] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the usage state of the bare cell draining device provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0079] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the robot arm in use provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0080] Figure 8 This is a front view of the housing guide tool provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0081] Figure 9 for Figure 8 The left view;

[0082] Figure 10 for Figure 8 Top view;

[0083] Figure 11 for Figure 8 A three-dimensional image;

[0084] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram showing the usage state of the shell guide tool provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0085] Figure 13 A flowchart of the bare cell impregnation method provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0086] Figure 14 A flowchart illustrating a battery preparation method provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0087] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0088] 1. Separator; 2. Bottom support; 3. Bare cell; 4. Cover plate; 5. Flanged edge; 6. Immersion tank; 7. First drain port; 8. First protrusion; 9. Exhaust port; 10. First cover; 12. Electrolyte; 13. Gas injection port; 14. First liquid inlet; 15. Inlet guide fixture; 16. Battery casing; 19. Immersion space; 20. Second drain port; 21. Draining tank; 22. Second protrusion; 23. Second cover; 25. Liquid droplet; 26. Second liquid inlet; 27. First connector; 28. 7, weight sensor 28, connecting rod 29, second connector 30, first clamping member 31, second clamping member 32, first clamping arm 331, second clamping arm 332, clamping pad 333, lateral support 51, bare cell accommodating space 52, through hole 53, bare cell bracket 100, first sub-component 151, second sub-component 152, guide section 153, positioning section 154, guide channel 155, rounded corner 156. Detailed Implementation

[0089] The present application will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the invention and not intended to limit it. Furthermore, it should be noted that, for ease of description, only the parts relevant to the invention are shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0090] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in this application can be combined with each other. This application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0091] Firstly, at least see Figure 1 - Figure 5 As shown, the bare cell immersion device provided in this embodiment of the invention is used to immerse the bare cell 3 in electrolyte 12. The bare cell 3 referred to here may be, but is not limited to, a cell that has not been installed with a battery casing 16 after being stacked or wound.

[0092] Before placing the bare cell 3 onto the bare cell holder 100, it is generally necessary to bake the bare cell 3 to dry the electrode paste on the electrode sheet of the bare cell 3.

[0093] like Figure 1 - Figure 5 As shown, the bare cell immersion device includes an immersion tank 6 and a bare cell holder 100. The immersion tank 6 is provided with an immersion space 19 for holding electrolyte 12. The bare cell holder 100 has a bare cell receiving space 52, and each bare cell receiving space 52 can hold one bare cell 3. The bare cell holder 100 can be placed in the immersion space 19 so that the bare cells in the bare cell receiving space 52 are immersed in the electrolyte 12 to immerse the bare cells 3.

[0094] To prevent the electrolyte 12 from corroding the immersion tank 6 and the bare cell holder 100, the immersion tank 6 and the bare cell holder 100 can be made of corrosion-resistant materials, such as, but not limited to, stainless steel, high molecular organic materials, etc. Alternatively, a layer of electrolyte 12-resistant material can be plated inside the immersion tank 6 and on the surface of the bare cell holder 100.

[0095] In the above scheme, when immersing the bare battery cell 3, the bare battery cell 3 is placed in the bare battery cell receiving space 52 of the bare battery cell holder 100, and then the bare battery cell 3 is immersed in the electrolyte 12 contained in the immersion tank 6 through the bare battery cell holder 100. During the immersion process, the bare battery cell 3 is continuously immersed in the electrolyte 12. Due to the large immersion power of the electrolyte 12 caused by hydraulic action, the immersion rate is high and the immersion uniformity is high, thus improving the immersion effect.

[0096] To improve the wetting effect, at least one through hole 53 can be provided on the side and / or bottom of the bare cell housing space 52 so that the electrolyte 12 can enter the bare cell housing space 52 through the through hole 53 to wet the bare cell 3.

[0097] Preferably, multiple through holes 53 can be provided. These through holes 53 can be provided only on the side or bottom surface of the bare cell receiving space 52, or they can be provided on both the side and bottom surface of the bare cell receiving space 52. In this example, multiple through holes 53 are provided on both the side and bottom surface of the bare cell receiving space 52 so that the bare cell 3 can contact the electrolyte 12 as much as possible.

[0098] As a feasible approach, refer to Figure 2 The bare cell holder 100 includes a bottom support 2, on which at least two partitions 1 are spaced apart. The adjacent partitions 1 and the bottom support 2 form the bare cell accommodating space 52. The partitions 1 and / or the bottom support 2 are provided with the through holes 53.

[0099] For example, but not limited to, the bottom support 2 can be a flat plate structure with multiple through holes 53 as described above, allowing the electrolyte 12 to move between the upper and lower sides of the bottom support 2. Preferably, the multiple through holes 53 are evenly distributed in the flat plate structure, at least corresponding to the area of ​​each bare cell accommodating space 52.

[0100] The partition 1 can be integrated with the bottom support 2, or it can be fixed to the bottom support 2 by means of fastening, such as screws, welding, or snap-fit.

[0101] Generally, the partitions 1 are parallel to each other and the distance between the partitions 1 is equal. Of course, when impregnating bare cells 3 of different thicknesses at the same time, bare cell brackets 100 with different distances between the partitions 1 can also be used.

[0102] Preferably, the partition 1 and the bottom support 2 are perpendicular to each other, thus forming a vertical bare cell receiving space 52, in which the bare cell 3 can be vertically inserted for immersion.

[0103] The separator 1 can also be a flat plate structure. Preferably, each separator 1 has a plurality of the above-mentioned through holes 53 so that the electrolyte 12 can move between the bare cell housing space 52. More preferably, the plurality of through holes 53 are evenly arranged on each separator 1.

[0104] The uniform arrangement of the aforementioned through holes 53 can improve the uniformity of the contact between the bare battery cell 3 and the electrolyte 12, which is beneficial to improving the uniformity and consistency of wetting.

[0105] As an alternative, the height of the partition 1 is less than the height of the bare cell 3. This allows the top of the bare cell 3 to be exposed outside the bare cell housing space 52, enabling it to come into more direct and full contact with the electrolyte 12, thus improving the wetting effect.

[0106] As an alternative implementation, the height of the partition 1 is 2 / 3 to 4 / 5 of the height of the bare battery cell 3. Using this height range provides sufficient support for the bare battery cell 3, preventing it from tilting and causing deformation, bending, or other problems.

[0107] As an implementation method, two lateral supports 51 are also provided at intervals on the bottom support 2. Each lateral support 51 has a flange 5 at the end away from the bottom support 2. The flange 5 is used to overlap the immersion tank 6 so that the bare cell bracket 100 is suspended in the immersion space 19. This allows the electrolyte 12 to enter the bare cell receiving space 52 from the through hole 53 provided in the partition 1 and / or the bottom support 2, so that all surfaces of the bare cell 3 in the bare cell receiving space 52 can fully contact the electrolyte 12.

[0108] As an implementation, the partition 1 and the lateral support 51 are located on the same side of the bottom support 2, and the height of the lateral support 51 is greater than the height of the partition 1.

[0109] In this example, both the partition 1 and the lateral support 51 are located above the bottom support 2. The height of the lateral support 51 is greater than the height of the partition 1, which prevents the upper part of the lateral support 51 from contacting the electrolyte 12. Correspondingly, when the bare cell bracket 100 is moved and placed using a robot arm, lifting device, etc., the robot arm, lifting device, etc., act on the upper part of the lateral support 51, so that it also does not need to contact the electrolyte 12. Therefore, the corrosion resistance of the robot arm, lifting device, etc. to electrolyte 12 does not need to be considered.

[0110] To facilitate the placement of the bare cell holder 100 into the immersion space 19, the immersion tank 6 is provided with a first opening. Preferably, the first opening is located at the top of the immersion tank 6. A first cover 10 is provided to seal the first opening. The bare cell holder 100 is provided inside the immersion tank 6. After the first cover 10 is sealed on the first opening of the immersion tank 6, the first cover 10 and the immersion tank 6 form a closed space, which can prevent the electrolyte 12 from evaporating during the immersion process, thus preventing waste and environmental pollution.

[0111] As an implementation method, the first cover 10 is provided with an exhaust port 9 and an injection port 13. By providing an exhaust port 9 and an injection port 13 on the first cover 10, during the impregnation process of the bare battery cell 3, a vacuum is drawn into the impregnation tank 6 through the exhaust port 9, and after maintaining this vacuum for a certain period of time, dry gas (preferably inert gas) is injected into the impregnation tank 6 through the injection port 13 and pressurized to a predetermined pressure (positive pressure). This alternating process of vacuuming and pressurizing to the predetermined pressure is repeated until a predetermined number of times is reached to complete the impregnation. The alternating vacuum and positive pressure in the impregnation tank 6 is equivalent to generating a "hammering" effect, which can increase the diffusion rate of the electrolyte 12 in the bare battery cell 3, thereby improving the impregnation speed and uniformity, and thus improving the impregnation effect.

[0112] Furthermore, the bare cell immersion device also includes an air extraction device and an air injection device.

[0113] The vacuum pump is connected to the exhaust port 9. The vacuum pump is configured to evacuate the immersion tank 6 when the bare battery cell 3 is immersed, until a predetermined vacuum level is reached and maintained for a first predetermined time.

[0114] The gas injection device is connected to the gas injection port 13. The gas injection device is configured to inject drying gas into the impregnation tank 6 after the vacuum device has evacuated and maintained the first predetermined time until a predetermined pressure is reached and maintained for a second predetermined time.

[0115] By alternating between the vacuum device and the gas injection device, a vacuum and positive pressure alternately appear in the impregnation tank 6, which is equivalent to generating a "hammering" effect. This can increase the diffusion rate of the electrolyte 12 in the bare cell 3, which is beneficial to improving the impregnation speed and impregnation uniformity, thereby improving the impregnation effect.

[0116] The vacuum pump and the gas injection device are configured to alternately cycle through vacuuming and injecting dried gas until a predetermined number of cycles are reached. This predetermined number of cycles can be determined based on actual circumstances and is not limited here.

[0117] As an implementation method, a first protrusion 8 is provided at the first opening, for example, but not limited to, the first protrusion 8 is provided on the inner side of the first opening, and the flange 5 connected to the lateral support 51 overlaps on the first protrusion 8.

[0118] As an implementation method, the first cover 10 is sealed on the outer side of the first opening, preferably located on the outer side of the first protrusion 8.

[0119] The first protrusion 8 is provided on the inner side of the first opening. On the one hand, the flange 5 can be attached to the first protrusion 8 to support the bare cell bracket 100. On the other hand, it can also limit the first cover 10 to prevent the first cover 10 from moving in the horizontal direction.

[0120] As an implementation method, an ultrasonic generator is installed in the immersion tank 6. During the immersion process, the ultrasonic generator can be turned on as needed. The ultrasonic waves generated by the ultrasonic generator can break up the air bubbles between the electrolyte 12 and the bare battery cell 3 during the immersion process, further increasing the contact area between the electrolyte 12 and the bare battery cell 3, thereby significantly improving the immersion efficiency, shortening the immersion time, and improving the work efficiency.

[0121] As an alternative implementation, the ultrasonic generator is disposed at the bottom of the immersion tank 6.

[0122] Preferably, the ultrasonic generator can cover the entire bottom of the immersion tank 6, so that ultrasonic waves can be emitted upward to perform ultrasonic vibration on the electrolyte 12 in the entire immersion tank 6, so that the bubbles in the electrolyte 12 can be fully burst.

[0123] As an implementation method, a first heating device is provided in the impregnation tank 6. This first heating device, and the subsequent second heating device, can be, but are not limited to, an electric heating device. The first heating device in the impregnation tank 6 serves two purposes: firstly, it heats the electrolyte 12 to improve the diffusion ability of electrolyte molecules, thereby enhancing the impregnation effect; secondly, it can also be used to heat the electrolyte 12 to evaporate it when it is drained and a small amount remains in the impregnation tank 6, maintaining the electrolyte vapor saturation in the impregnation tank 6. In this case, the impregnation tank 6 can be used as a draining tank to drain the impregnated bare battery cells 3.

[0124] As an implementation method, the immersion tank 6 is provided with a first liquid inlet 14 and a first liquid outlet 7, wherein the first liquid inlet 14 is positioned higher than the first liquid outlet 7.

[0125] By setting the first liquid inlet 14 and the first liquid outlet 7, waste liquid can be discharged in a timely manner as the immersion operation progresses, and new electrolyte 12 can be added to maintain the concentration of electrolyte 12 in the immersion tank 6, so as to ensure the immersion quality.

[0126] Secondly, embodiments of the present invention provide a battery manufacturing apparatus, including the bare cell impregnation apparatus described above.

[0127] As another possible approach, see at least the following: Figure 6 As shown, the battery manufacturing apparatus also includes a bare cell draining device, which includes a draining tank 21 and a draining space. The bare cell holder 100 can be placed in the draining space so that the bare cells in the bare cell receiving space 52 after being soaked in electrolyte are drained.

[0128] After the bare cell 3 has been immersed in the bare cell immersion device, it can be transferred to the draining tank 21 along with the bare cell bracket 100 to drain the free electrolyte on the surface of the bare cell 3.

[0129] As an implementation method, the draining groove 21 is provided with a second opening, for example, but not limited to, the second opening is provided at the top of the draining groove 21, and the second opening is sealed with a second cover 23.

[0130] As an alternative, a second heating device is provided inside the draining tank 21.

[0131] After soaking, the surface of the bare battery cell 3 is still coated with free electrolyte 12. The bare battery cell 3 is placed in the draining tank 21 along with the bare battery cell bracket 100, and the second cover 23 is placed on top to form a closed space inside the bare battery cell draining device. During the draining process, the second heating device inside the draining tank 21 is turned on to allow the electrolyte 12 added to the draining tank 21 to evaporate, so as to maintain the electrolyte gas concentration in the bare battery cell draining device at saturation and prevent the electrolyte 12 soaked in the bare battery cell 3 from evaporating during the draining process. The free electrolyte 12 on the surface of the bare battery cell 3 forms droplets 25 under the action of gravity and drips to the bottom of the draining tank 21.

[0132] As an alternative implementation, the second heating device is disposed at the bottom of the draining tank 21. This facilitates heating of the small amount of electrolyte 12 added to the draining tank 21.

[0133] As an implementation method, a second protrusion 22 is provided at the second opening. For example, but not limited to, the second protrusion 22 is provided on the inner side of the second opening, and the top surface of the second protrusion 22 is the bearing surface used to support the flange 5. That is, the flange 5 of the bare cell bracket 100 overlaps on the second protrusion 22.

[0134] As an implementation method, the second cover 23 is sealed on the outer side of the second opening, preferably located on the outer side of the second protrusion 22.

[0135] The second protrusion 22 is provided on the inner side of the second opening. On the one hand, it can be used to support the bare cell brackets 100, and on the other hand, it can also limit the second cover 23 to prevent the second cover 23 from moving in the horizontal direction.

[0136] As an implementation method, the draining tank 21 is provided with a second liquid inlet 26 and a second liquid outlet 20, wherein the second liquid inlet 26 is positioned higher than the second liquid outlet 20.

[0137] By setting a second inlet 26 and a second outlet 20, waste liquid can be discharged in a timely manner as the draining operation progresses, and new electrolyte 12 can be added to maintain the electrolyte gas concentration in the bare cell draining device at saturation.

[0138] As an implementable method, at least see [reference needed]. Figure 7 As shown, the battery manufacturing apparatus also includes a robotic arm, which is used to grasp bare battery cells 3 before and after electrolyte immersion and draining, and to weigh the bare battery cells 3 before and after electrolyte immersion and draining, respectively.

[0139] Generally, the robotic arm can be used to grab and place the dried bare battery cell 3, that is, the bare battery cell 3 before being soaked in electrolyte, into the bare battery cell holding space 52 of the bare battery cell holder 100, and grab the drained bare battery cell 3 and assemble it into the battery casing.

[0140] When the robotic arm picks up the dried bare battery cell 3 and the drained bare battery cell 3, its weight (mass) is acquired in real time. Based on the difference between the two weights, the weight of the electrolyte 12 soaked in the bare battery cell 3 is obtained. Based on the weight of the soaked electrolyte 12, it can be determined whether the weight of the soaked electrolyte 12 in the bare battery cell 3 meets the requirements.

[0141] As an implementation method, the robotic arm includes a first connector 27 and a second connector 30 arranged at intervals. A weight sensor 28 is provided between the first connector 27 and the second connector 30. The weight sensor 28 can weigh the dried bare battery cell 3 and the drained bare battery cell 3.

[0142] For example, but not limited to, the first connector 27 is directly connected to the weight sensor 28, and the second connector 30 is connected to the weight sensor 28 via the connecting rod 29.

[0143] As an implementation method, the second connector 30 is provided with a first clamping member 31 and a second clamping member 32 opposite to each other; the first clamping member 31 and the second clamping member 32 are configured to clamp or release the bare battery cell 3 when they move relative to each other.

[0144] The clamping parts of the first clamping member 31 and the second clamping member 32 move toward each other to clamp the bare battery cell 3, and vice versa to release the bare battery cell 3.

[0145] When the clamping parts of the first clamping member 31 and the second clamping member 32 move towards each other to clamp the bare battery cell 3, the force on the weight sensor 28 increases, and the weight of the bare battery cell 3 is determined based on the change in its force.

[0146] As a possible implementation, the first clamping member 31 may oscillate or translate relative to the second clamping member 32.

[0147] The first clamping member 31 and the second clamping member 32 can be hinged, or the first clamping member 31 and the second clamping member 32 can be hinged to the second connecting member 30 respectively, so as to clamp and release the bare battery cell 3 by relative swinging motion.

[0148] As an implementation method, the first clamping member 31 and the second clamping member 32 are respectively slidably engaged with the second connecting member 30, and the first clamping member 31 and the second clamping member 32 slide along the same straight line to achieve the purpose of translation of the first clamping member 31 relative to the second clamping member 32.

[0149] The preferred method is to use the first clamping member 31 to translate relative to the second clamping member 32. This results in a large force-bearing area during the clamping of the bare battery cell 3, making it less likely to deform the bare battery cell 3.

[0150] As an implementation method, both the first clamping member 31 and the second clamping member 32 include a first clamping arm 331 and a second clamping arm 332 that is bent and connected to the first clamping arm 331, with the two second clamping arms 332 extending toward each other.

[0151] As an implementation, clamping pads 333 are respectively provided at the close ends of the two second clamping arms 332. Preferably, the opposite sides of the two clamping pads 333 are parallel planes, and the area of ​​the plane in its orthographic projection is larger than the area of ​​the second clamping arms 332. This structure increases the force application surface when clamping the bare battery cell 3, which can protect the bare battery cell 3, and the clamping is more stable and less likely to cause deformation of the bare battery cell 3.

[0152] As an implementation method, the robotic arm is configured to determine whether the amount of electrolyte immersion of the bare battery cell 3 is qualified based on the weight of the bare battery cell 3 before and after electrolyte immersion and draining.

[0153] If qualified, the drained bare cell 3 is installed into the battery casing, and the cover plate 4 is sealed to the battery casing.

[0154] If it is not up to standard, the bare cell 3 shall be corrected according to the relationship between the wettability of the bare cell 3 and the target amount, so that the wettability meets the target amount.

[0155] As an alternative implementation, the battery manufacturing apparatus further includes a control unit configured to receive the weight of the bare cell 3 before and after electrolyte immersion and draining, as measured by the robotic arm, and to determine whether the immersion amount of the bare cell 3 is qualified based on the weight.

[0156] If qualified, the drained bare cell 3 is installed into the battery casing, and the cover plate 4 is sealed to the battery casing.

[0157] If it is not up to standard, the bare cell 3 shall be corrected according to the relationship between the wettability of the bare cell 3 and the target amount, so that the wettability meets the target amount.

[0158] As an implementation method, the correction process for the bare cell 3 based on the relationship between the wetted amount and the target amount includes: when the wetted amount of electrolyte 12 is less than the target amount, the unqualified bare cell 3 is re-wetted; or, after the unqualified bare cell 3 is installed into the battery casing, the cover plate 4 is sealed to the battery casing, and a predetermined amount of electrolyte 12 is injected into the battery casing.

[0159] When the amount of electrolyte 12 used for wetting exceeds the target amount, the amount of electrolyte 12 used for the unqualified bare cells 3 is reduced until the amount of electrolyte 12 used for wetting meets the requirements. After the amount of electrolyte 12 is reduced, the bare cells 3 are installed into the battery casing, and the cover plate 4 is sealed to the battery casing.

[0160] See also, as an example of an implementation method. Figure 8 - Figure 12 As shown, the battery manufacturing apparatus also includes a casing guide fixture 15, which includes a fixture body and a guide channel 155. The guide channel 155 includes a guide section 153 and a positioning section 154 connected in sequence. The guide section 153 has a constricted structure from the end away from the positioning section 154 to the end close to the positioning section 154, and the positioning section 154 is a straight tube section.

[0161] By setting up the casing guide fixture 15, when the robot arm picks up the bare cell 3 and assembles it into the battery casing 16, the lower end of the bare cell 3 first passes through the constriction structure to gradually guide the bare cell 3 to the opening of the battery casing, and then enters the battery casing in a completely vertical state through the straight tube section. By setting up the casing guide fixture 15, the casing efficiency is improved and the casing yield is increased.

[0162] As an alternative, the side of the constricted structure can be curved or inclined. Using a curved or inclined surface allows the bare cell 3 to slide smoothly into the straight pipe section.

[0163] As an alternative implementation, the cross-section of the straight pipe section can be rectangular. The rectangular cross-section of the straight pipe section is designed to fit the shape of the bare battery cell 3, allowing for better guidance of the bare battery cell 3 during its insertion into the casing. It is understood that when the bare battery cell 3 is cylindrical or has other shapes, the cross-section of the straight pipe section should also be adjusted to match the shape of the bare battery cell 3.

[0164] As an implementation method, the inner contour of the straight tube section perpendicular to its axis is consistent with the inner contour of the battery casing 16 into which the bare cell 3 is to be installed, perpendicular to its axis. That is, the internal dimensions of the straight tube section are the same as the external dimensions of the bare cell 3. This can both limit and guide the bare cell 3 in the vertical direction and prevent the bare cell 3 from shaking inside the straight tube section.

[0165] In some cases, rounded corners 156 can be set at the four corners of the rectangle to provide some protection for the bare cell 3.

[0166] As an implementation method, the connection between the guide segment 153 and the positioning segment 154 is smoothly transitioned. By setting a smooth transition, the smoothness of the downward movement of the bare cell 3 can be improved, and problems such as deformation or damage to the lower end of the bare cell 3 caused by sharp corners at the connection can be avoided.

[0167] As one possible implementation, the tooling body includes a first sub-component 151 and a second sub-component 152, which together form the guide channel 155.

[0168] The tooling body adopts a first sub-component 151 and a second sub-component 152 that are engaged. When the bare cell 3 moves down to a certain position, the distance of the downward movement can be determined according to the actual situation. For example, a sensor can be set on the tooling body. After sensing that the bare cell 3 has entered the battery casing 16 to a certain depth, the first sub-component 151 and the second sub-component 152 separate from each other, opening up an unobstructed passage for the further downward movement of the bare cell 3.

[0169] As an implementation, the first sub-component 151 and the second sub-component 152 are symmetrical about the axis passing through the guide channel 155.

[0170] Thirdly, at least see Figure 13 As shown, the present invention provides a method for impregnating bare cells using the above-described battery fabrication apparatus, comprising the following steps:

[0171] S10: Place the bare battery cells 3 one by one into the bare battery cell receiving space 52 of the bare battery cell bracket 100;

[0172] For example, but not limited to, a robotic arm can be used to pick up the dried bare battery cells 3 one by one and place them in the bare battery cell holding space 52 of the bare battery cell holder 100.

[0173] S20: Place the bare cell holder 100 after placing the bare cell 3 into the immersion space 19 so that the bare cells in the bare cell accommodating space 52 are immersed in the electrolyte.

[0174] After the bare cell 3 is filled in the bare cell holding space 52 of the bare cell holder 100, the bare cell 3 is transferred to the immersion tank 6 along with the bare cell holder 100. Then, the first cover 10 is placed on the first opening of the immersion tank 6 to begin immersing the bare cell 3.

[0175] During the immersion process, the bare battery cell 3 is completely submerged in the electrolyte 12.

[0176] As an alternative implementation, a cover plate 4 is connected to the tab of the bare cell 3, and the cover plate 4 is exposed above the liquid surface.

[0177] In order to shorten the time of inserting the bare cell 3 soaked in electrolyte 12 into the casing (from the time after draining to the time of inserting into the battery casing 16), and to avoid or reduce the evaporation of electrolyte 12 in the bare cell 3 during this process, a cover plate 4 is first connected to the bare cell 3 before it is soaked.

[0178] The cover plate 4 has a terminal post, and the tabs of the bare battery cell 3 are electrically connected to the terminal post. The electrical connection between the tabs and the terminal post can be achieved by welding, and welding methods can include laser welding, ultrasonic welding, resistance welding, electromagnetic welding, friction welding, and resistance welding.

[0179] As an implementation method, during the impregnation process, the impregnation tank 6 is evacuated through the exhaust port 9 on the first cover 10 until a predetermined vacuum degree is reached and maintained for a first predetermined time. Then, drying gas is injected through the air injection port 13 on the first cover 10 until a predetermined pressure is reached and maintained for a second predetermined time. The steps of evacuating the vacuum and injecting the drying gas are repeated again, and this process is repeated until a predetermined number of times is reached.

[0180] The vacuum level, the length of the first predetermined time, the magnitude of the predetermined pressure, and the predetermined number of times can be determined according to the actual situation, and are not uniquely limited here.

[0181] As a possible approach, while the vacuum level is maintained in the immersion tank 6, the electrolyte 12 is subjected to ultrasonic vibration by an ultrasonic generator.

[0182] In this scheme, the impregnation tank 6 is alternately in a vacuum and positive pressure state during the impregnation process. During the vacuum process, the electrolyte 12 is subjected to ultrasonic vibration by an ultrasonic generator, thereby improving the impregnation efficiency of the electrolyte 12.

[0183] As an alternative approach, the ultrasonic generator is turned off at least during the process of injecting the gas into the impregnation tank 6 through the gas injection port 13 on the first cover 10. That is, the ultrasonic generator is turned off when the impregnation tank 6 is under positive pressure.

[0184] As an implementation method, the bare battery cell 3 after being soaked in electrolyte 12 is placed in a bare battery cell draining device for draining, and the concentration of electrolyte 12 gas in the bare battery cell draining device is maintained at saturation during the draining process.

[0185] As an alternative method, the electrolyte 12 in the bare cell draining device is heated by a second heating device to cause the electrolyte 12 in the bare cell draining device to evaporate, thereby maintaining the electrolyte gas concentration in the bare cell draining device at saturation.

[0186] Fourthly, the present invention provides a method for preparing a battery, including the above-described method for impregnating bare cells;

[0187] It also includes: using a robotic arm to grab the drained bare battery cell 3, and obtaining the weight of the drained bare battery cell 3 at the same time, and determining whether the amount of immersion of the bare battery cell 3 is qualified based on the weight of the bare battery cell 3 before immersion;

[0188] If qualified, the drained bare cell 3 is installed into the battery casing 16, and the cover plate 4 is sealed to the battery casing 16.

[0189] If it is not up to standard, the bare cell 3 shall be corrected according to the relationship between the wettability of the bare cell 3 and the target amount, so that the wettability meets the target amount.

[0190] Specifically, the correction process for the bare cell 3 based on the relationship between the amount of wetted electrolyte 12 and the target amount includes: when the amount of wetted electrolyte 12 is less than the target amount, the unqualified bare cell 3 is re-wetted; or, after the unqualified bare cell 3 is installed into the battery casing 16, the cover plate 4 is sealed to the battery casing 16, and a predetermined amount of electrolyte 12 is injected into the battery casing 16.

[0191] When the amount of electrolyte 12 used for wetting exceeds the target amount, the amount of electrolyte 12 used for wetting the unqualified bare cells 3 is reduced until the amount of electrolyte 12 used for wetting meets the requirements. After the amount of electrolyte 12 is reduced, the bare cells 3 are installed into the battery casing 16, and the cover plate 4 is sealed to the battery casing 16.

[0192] As an alternative implementation, during the process of inserting the bare cell 3 into the battery casing 16, an insertion guide fixture 15 is provided directly above the battery casing 16 to guide the bare cell 3 so that the bare cell 3 falls downward into the battery casing 16 through the guide channel 155.

[0193] The housing guide fixture 15 includes a first sub-component 151 and a second sub-component 152 that surround the guide channel 155.

[0194] As an implementation method, after the bare cell 3 enters the battery casing 16 to a predetermined depth, the first sub-component 151 and the second sub-component 152 separate from each other so that the bare cell 3 falls downward into the battery casing 16. Subsequently, the first sub-component 151 and the second sub-component 152 re-engage to guide the next bare cell 3.

[0195] The method for preparing the battery provided by the present invention will be illustrated below by way of one detailed embodiment.

[0196] At least see Figure 14 As shown, the method for preparing the battery in this embodiment includes:

[0197] S21: Connect cover plate 4 to the dried bare cell 3.

[0198] The cover plate 4 has a terminal post, and the tabs of the bare battery cell 3 are electrically connected to the terminal post. The electrical connection between the tabs and the terminal post can be achieved by welding, and welding methods can include laser welding, ultrasonic welding, resistance welding, electromagnetic welding, friction welding, and resistance welding.

[0199] S22: A robotic arm is used to place the bare battery cell 3, which is connected to the cover plate 4, into the bare battery cell bracket 100.

[0200] A robotic arm can be used to pick up the bare battery cells 3 one by one after connecting the cover plate 4 and place them in the bare battery cell receiving space 52 of the bare battery cell bracket 100. The robotic arm used in the example above has the ability to weigh, and the weight of the bare battery cells 3 is weighed simultaneously during the picking process.

[0201] S23: Transfer the bare cell holder 100 after placing the bare cell 3 to the immersion tank 6.

[0202] Open the first cover 10 on the first opening of the immersion tank 6, and put the bare cell bracket 100 into the immersion tank 6 through the first opening. The flange 5 of the bare cell bracket 100 is mounted on the first protrusion 8 on the inner side of the first opening.

[0203] Electrolyte 12 can be injected into the immersion tank 6 before or after placing the bare cell bracket 100. The liquid level of the electrolyte 12 is guaranteed to completely submerge the bare cell 3, and the cover plate 4 is exposed above the liquid level of the electrolyte 12.

[0204] After the bare cell holder 100 is transferred into the immersion tank 6, the first cover 10 is placed on the first opening.

[0205] S24: Impregnate the bare cell 3.

[0206] During the impregnation process, the air injection port 13 is closed, and the impregnation tank 6 is evacuated through the exhaust port 9 on the first cover 10 until a predetermined vacuum degree is reached and maintained for a first predetermined time. Then, the exhaust port 9 is closed, and the drying gas is injected through the air injection port 13 on the first cover 10. The gas is preferably an inert gas. After the predetermined pressure is reached and maintained for a second predetermined time, the impregnation tank 6 is evacuated again. This cycle is repeated until a predetermined number of times is reached to complete the impregnation.

[0207] When in a vacuum state, the ultrasonic generator in the impregnation tank 6 is turned on to ultrasonically vibrate the electrolyte 12, and the ultrasonic generator is turned off when gas is injected into the impregnation tank 6.

[0208] The amount of electrolyte 12 immersed in the bare cell 3, i.e., the electrolyte retention, can be controlled by adjusting the vacuum level, ultrasonic vibration frequency, positive pressure, and immersion time.

[0209] S25: Drain the bare battery cell 3.

[0210] After soaking, open the first cover 10 on the first opening of the soaking tank 6 and the second cover 23 on the second opening of the draining tank 21, take the bare battery cell 3 out of the soaking tank 6 along with the bare battery cell bracket 100, and place it in the draining tank 21. The flange 5 of the bare battery cell bracket 100 is mounted on the second protrusion 22 on the inner side of the second opening. Then, cover the second opening with the second cover 23 for draining.

[0211] During the draining process, a small amount of electrolyte 12 is injected into the draining tank 21. The second heating device is turned on to heat the electrolyte 12 in the draining tank 21, so that the electrolyte 12 in the draining tank 21 evaporates, thereby maintaining the electrolyte gas concentration in the draining tank 21 at saturation. Under this environment, the free electrolyte on the surface of the bare battery cell 3 drips off under the action of gravity, while the electrolyte immersed in the bare battery cell 3 does not decrease.

[0212] S26: Bare cell 3-in-casing assembly.

[0213] After the bare cell 3 is drained, a robotic arm picks up the bare cell 3 and inserts it into the battery casing 16.

[0214] Before the bare cell 3 is inserted into the battery casing 16, the weight of the bare cell 3 after draining can be measured by a robotic arm, and based on the weight of the bare cell 3 before immersion, it can be determined whether the immersion amount (liquid retention) of the bare cell 3 is qualified.

[0215] If qualified, the drained bare cell 3 is installed into the battery casing 16, and the cover plate 4 is sealed to the battery casing 16; generally, the cover plate 4 can be sealed to the battery casing 16 by welding.

[0216] If the sample fails to meet the requirements, and the amount of electrolyte used for impregnation is less than the target amount, the unqualified bare cell 3 shall be impregnated again; or,

[0217] After the unqualified bare battery cell 3 is installed into the battery casing 16, the cover plate 4 is sealed to the battery casing 16, and a predetermined amount of electrolyte is injected into the battery casing 16; the electrolyte can be injected before or after the cover plate 4 is sealed to the battery casing 16.

[0218] When the amount of electrolyte used for wetting exceeds the target amount, the electrolyte in the unqualified bare cells 3 is reduced until the amount of electrolyte used for wetting meets the requirements. The reduced-electrolyte bare cells 3 are then installed into the battery casing 16, and the cover plate 4 is sealed to the battery casing 16. A portion of the electrolyte in the bare cells 3 can be squeezed out by applying pressure using a robotic arm to achieve the purpose of reducing the electrolyte content.

[0219] During the process of installing the bare cell 3 into the battery casing 16, the bare cell 3 can be guided by the casing guide tool 15.

[0220] The insertion guide fixture 15 is positioned above the battery casing 16 and directly opposite the opening of the battery casing 16. The guide section 153 of the insertion guide fixture 15 is located above the positioning section 154. The robotic arm grasps the bare battery cell 3, sequentially passes through the guide section 153 and the positioning section 154, and inserts it into the battery casing 16. When the bare battery cell 3 has entered the battery casing 16 a certain distance (for example, after the bare battery cell 3 has entered the battery casing 16 to a predetermined depth), the first sub-component 151 and the second sub-component 152 of the fixture body of the insertion guide fixture 15 separate from each other, opening an unobstructed passage for the further downward movement of the bare battery cell 3. After the bare battery cell 3 is installed in place, the first sub-component 151 and the second sub-component 152 re-engage to guide the insertion of the next bare battery cell 3.

[0221] Additionally, it should be noted that for closed-cell formation processes where the battery electrolyte filling volume is less than or equal to the retaining volume, cover plate 4 can be designed without an electrolyte filling port. Leak detection is performed using VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), which eliminates subsequent steps such as evacuation, helium injection, nailing, and sealing nail welding, resulting in higher production efficiency and lower costs. For cases where the battery electrolyte filling volume is greater than the retaining volume, cover plate 4 can be designed with an electrolyte filling port. After cover plate 4 is connected, secondary electrolyte replenishment (electrolyte filling) is performed through the filling port.

[0222] It should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., used above to indicate orientation or positional relationships are based on the orientation or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings and are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of the present invention. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Thus, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of the present invention, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0223] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and an explanation of the technical principles employed. Those skilled in the art should understand that the scope of the invention involved in this application is not limited to technical solutions formed by specific combinations of the above-described technical features, but should also cover other technical solutions formed by arbitrary combinations of the above-described technical features or their equivalents without departing from the inventive concept. For example, technical solutions formed by substituting the above features with (but not limited to) technical features with similar functions disclosed in this application.

Claims

1. A bare battery cell immersion device, characterized in that, include: The immersion tank (6) and bare cell holder (100) are provided. The immersion tank (6) is provided with an immersion space (19) for holding electrolyte. The bare cell holder (100) includes a bare cell receiving space (52) for receiving bare cells. The bare cell holder (100) can be placed in the immersion space (19) so that the bare cells in the bare cell receiving space (52) are immersed in the electrolyte. The bare cell holder (100) includes a bottom support (2), on which at least two partitions (1) are spaced apart. Adjacent partitions (1) and the bottom support (2) form a bare cell receiving space (52). The partitions (1) and / or the bottom support (2) are provided with through holes (53). The bottom support (2) is also provided with two lateral supports (51) spaced apart. Each lateral support (51) has a flange (5) at the end away from the bottom support (2). The immersion tank (6) is provided with a first opening, and a first... The protrusion (8) and the flange (5) overlap the first protrusion (8) so that the bare cell bracket (100) is suspended in the immersion space (19). The immersion tank (6) is provided with a first heating device, which is used to heat the electrolyte. When a small amount of electrolyte remains in the immersion tank (6), the first heating device is also used to evaporate the small amount of electrolyte remaining in the immersion tank (6) by heating it, so as to maintain the electrolyte vapor saturation in the immersion tank (6). At this time, the immersion tank (6) can be configured as a draining tank to drain the immersed bare cell (3).

2. The bare cell immersion apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The height of the partition (1) is less than the height of the bare cell (3).

3. The bare cell immersion apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first opening is sealed with a first cover.

4. The bare cell immersion apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first cover (10) is provided with an exhaust port (9) and an air injection port (13).

5. The bare cell immersion apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, The bare cell immersion device also includes an air extraction device and an air injection device; The vacuum device is configured to evacuate the immersion tank (6) when the bare battery cell (3) is immersed, until a predetermined vacuum level is reached and maintained for a first predetermined time. The gas injection device is configured to inject drying gas into the impregnation tank (6) after the vacuum device has evacuated and maintained the first predetermined time until a predetermined pressure is reached and maintained for a second predetermined time.

6. The bare cell immersion apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, The vacuum pump and the gas injection device are configured to alternately cycle through vacuuming and injecting dried gas until a predetermined number of cycles are reached.

7. The bare cell immersion apparatus according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, An ultrasonic generator is installed inside the immersion tank (6).

8. The bare cell impregnation apparatus according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The immersion tank (6) is provided with a first liquid inlet (14) and a first liquid outlet (7), and the first liquid inlet (14) is positioned higher than the first liquid outlet (7).

9. A battery manufacturing apparatus, characterized in that, Includes the bare cell immersion apparatus according to any one of claims 1-8.

10. The battery manufacturing apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that, The battery manufacturing apparatus further includes a bare cell draining device, which includes a draining tank (21) and a draining space. The bare cell bracket (100) can be placed in the draining space so that the bare cells in the bare cell receiving space (52) after being soaked in electrolyte are drained.

11. The battery manufacturing apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that, The drain groove (21) is provided with a second opening, and a second protrusion (22) is provided at the second opening. The flange (5) of the bare cell bracket (100) overlaps on the second protrusion (22).

12. The battery manufacturing apparatus according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that, A second heating device is provided inside the draining tank (21).

13. The battery manufacturing apparatus according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that, The draining tank (21) is provided with a second liquid inlet (26) and a second liquid outlet (20), and the second liquid inlet (26) is positioned higher than the second liquid outlet (20).

14. The battery manufacturing apparatus according to any one of claims 9-11, characterized in that, The battery manufacturing apparatus also includes a robotic arm, which is used to grasp bare battery cells (3) before and after electrolyte immersion and draining, and to weigh the bare battery cells (3) before and after electrolyte immersion and draining respectively.

15. The battery manufacturing apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that, The robotic arm includes a first connector (27) and a second connector (30) spaced apart, and a weight sensor (28) is provided between the first connector (27) and the second connector (30).

16. The battery manufacturing apparatus according to claim 15, characterized in that, The second connector (30) is provided with a first clamping member (31) and a second clamping member (32) opposite to each other; the first clamping member (31) and the second clamping member (32) are configured to clamp or release the bare battery cell (3) when they move relative to each other.

17. The battery manufacturing apparatus according to claim 16, characterized in that, The first clamping member (31) and the second clamping member (32) are respectively slidably engaged with the second connecting member (30), and the first clamping member (31) and the second clamping member (32) slide along the same straight line.

18. The battery manufacturing apparatus according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that, Both the first clamping member (31) and the second clamping member (32) include a first clamping arm (331) and a second clamping arm (332) bent and connected to the first clamping arm (331), with the two second clamping arms (332) extending toward each other.

19. The battery manufacturing apparatus according to claim 18, characterized in that, Clamping pads (333) are respectively provided at the ends of the two second clamping arms (332) that are close to each other.

20. The battery manufacturing apparatus according to claim 19, characterized in that, The robotic arm is configured to determine whether the amount of electrolyte immersion of the bare battery cell (3) is qualified based on the weight of the bare battery cell (3) before and after electrolyte immersion and draining. If qualified, the drained bare cell (3) is installed into the battery casing, and the cover plate (4) is sealed to the battery casing. If it is not qualified, the bare cell (3) shall be corrected according to the relationship between the wettability of the bare cell (3) and the target amount, so that the wettability meets the target amount.

21. The battery manufacturing apparatus according to claim 20, characterized in that, The battery manufacturing apparatus further includes a control unit, which is configured to receive the weight of the bare cell (3) before and after electrolyte immersion and draining, measured by the robotic arm, and determine whether the immersion amount of the bare cell (3) is qualified based on the weight. If qualified, the drained bare cell (3) is installed into the battery casing, and the cover plate (4) is sealed to the battery casing. If it is not qualified, the bare cell (3) shall be corrected according to the relationship between the wettability of the bare cell (3) and the target amount, so that the wettability meets the target amount.

22. The battery manufacturing apparatus according to claim 20 or 21, characterized in that, The correction process for the bare cell (3) based on the relationship between the amount of wetted electrolyte (12) and the target amount includes: when the amount of wetted electrolyte (12) is less than the target amount, the unqualified bare cell (3) is wetted again; or, after the unqualified bare cell (3) is installed into the battery casing, the cover plate (4) is sealed to the battery casing, and a predetermined amount of electrolyte (12) is injected into the battery casing. When the amount of electrolyte (12) used for wetting is greater than the target amount, the amount of electrolyte (12) used for the unqualified bare cells (3) is reduced until the amount of electrolyte (12) used for wetting meets the requirements. After the amount of electrolyte (12) is reduced, the bare cells (3) are installed into the battery casing and the cover plate (4) is sealed to the battery casing.

23. The battery manufacturing apparatus according to any one of claims 9-11, 15-17 and 19-21, characterized in that, The battery manufacturing apparatus further includes a casing guide fixture (15), which includes a fixture body and a guide channel (155) provided within the fixture body. The guide channel (155) includes a guide section (153) and a positioning section (154) connected in sequence. The guide section (153) has a constricted structure from one end away from the positioning section (154) to one end close to the positioning section (154), and the positioning section (154) is a straight pipe section.

24. The battery manufacturing apparatus according to claim 23, characterized in that, The inner contour of the straight pipe section perpendicular to its axis is consistent with the inner contour of the battery casing into which the bare cell (3) is to be installed, perpendicular to its axis.

25. The battery manufacturing apparatus according to claim 24, characterized in that, The tooling body includes a first sub-component (151) and a second sub-component (152), which together form the guide channel (155).

26. A method for impregnating a bare cell using the bare cell impregnation apparatus according to any one of claims 1-8 or the battery fabrication apparatus according to any one of claims 9-25, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: The bare cells (3) are placed one by one in the bare cell receiving space (52) of the bare cell bracket (100); The bare cell holder (100) after placing the bare cell (3) is placed in the immersion space (19) so that the bare cell in the bare cell receiving space (52) is immersed in the electrolyte.

27. The bare cell impregnation method according to claim 26, characterized in that, The bare cell (3) has a cover plate (4) connected to its tab, and the cover plate (4) is exposed above the surface of the electrolyte.

28. The bare cell impregnation method according to claim 26, characterized in that, During the impregnation process, the impregnation tank (6) is evacuated until a predetermined vacuum level is reached and maintained for a first predetermined time. Then, a drying gas is injected until a predetermined pressure is reached and maintained for a second predetermined time. The steps of evacuating the vacuum and injecting the drying gas are repeated until a predetermined number of times are reached.

29. The bare cell impregnation method according to claim 28, characterized in that, During the process of maintaining the vacuum level in the immersion tank (6), the electrolyte (12) is subjected to ultrasonic vibration by an ultrasonic generator.

30. The bare cell impregnation method according to claim 29, characterized in that, The ultrasonic generator is turned off at least during the process of injecting the gas into the immersion tank (6).

31. The bare cell impregnation method according to any one of claims 26-30, characterized in that, The bare battery cell (3) after being soaked in electrolyte (12) is placed in the bare battery cell draining device for draining. During the draining process, the concentration of electrolyte gas in the bare battery cell draining device is kept saturated.

32. The bare cell impregnation method according to claim 31, characterized in that, The electrolyte (12) in the bare cell draining device is heated by the second heating device, so that the electrolyte (12) in the bare cell draining device evaporates, thereby maintaining the electrolyte gas concentration in the bare cell draining device at saturation.

33. A method for preparing a battery, characterized in that, Includes the bare cell impregnation method according to any one of claims 26-32; It also includes: using a robotic arm to grab the drained bare battery cell (3), and obtaining the weight of the drained bare battery cell (3) while grabbing it, and determining whether the amount of wettation of the bare battery cell (3) is qualified based on the weight of the bare battery cell (3) before immersion; If qualified, the drained bare cell (3) is installed into the battery casing (16), and the cover plate (4) is sealed to the battery casing (16); If it is not qualified, the bare cell (3) shall be corrected according to the relationship between the wettability of the bare cell (3) and the target amount, so that the wettability meets the target amount.

34. The method for preparing a battery according to claim 33, characterized in that, The correction process for the bare cell (3) based on the relationship between the amount of wetted electrolyte (12) and the target amount includes: when the amount of wetted electrolyte (12) is less than the target amount, the unqualified bare cell (3) is wetted again; or, after the unqualified bare cell (3) is installed into the battery casing (16), the cover plate (4) is sealed to the battery casing (16), and a predetermined amount of electrolyte (12) is injected into the battery casing (16). When the amount of electrolyte (12) used for wetting is greater than the target amount, the amount of electrolyte (12) used for the unqualified bare cell (3) is reduced until the amount of electrolyte (12) used for wetting meets the requirements. After the amount of electrolyte (12) is reduced, the bare cell (3) is installed into the battery casing (16) and the cover plate (4) is sealed to the battery casing (16).

35. The preparation method according to claim 33, characterized in that, During the process of inserting the bare cell (3) into the battery casing (16), an insertion guide fixture (15) is set directly above the battery casing (16) to guide the bare cell (3) so that the bare cell (3) falls into the battery casing (16) through the guide channel (155).

36. The preparation method according to claim 35, characterized in that, After the bare cell (3) enters the battery casing (16) to a predetermined depth, the first sub-component (151) and the second sub-component (152) separate from each other so that the bare cell (3) falls downward into the battery casing (16).

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