Battery insulation film weakening device and battery insulation film weakening method

Abstract

The present application provides a battery insulating film weakening device and a battery insulating film weakening method, which belong to the field of battery technology. The device includes: a loading mechanism, which is configured to load batteries coated with insulating films; a weakening mechanism, which is located downstream of the loading mechanism on the weakening process line, and is configured to project a laser beam to a target position on the insulating film of the battery transferred from the loading mechanism; a detection mechanism, which is located downstream of the weakening mechanism on the weakening process line, and is configured to detect the weakening quality of the insulating film of the battery transferred from the weakening mechanism at the target position; a unloading mechanism, which is located downstream of the detection mechanism on the weakening process line, and is configured to unload the battery transferred from the detection mechanism; and a transfer mechanism, which is configured to transfer the battery from the loading mechanism to the weakening mechanism, the detection mechanism and the unloading mechanism in sequence. An automated process for weakening the battery insulating film is realized, labor costs are reduced, and production efficiency is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of battery technology, and in particular to a battery insulating film weakening device and a battery insulating film weakening method. Background Art

[0002] Energy conservation and emission reduction are the key to the sustainable development of the automobile industry. Electric vehicles have become an important part of the sustainable development of the automobile industry due to their advantages in energy conservation and environmental protection. For electric vehicles, battery technology is an important factor in their development.

[0003] During the manufacturing process of batteries, it is sometimes necessary to coat the outer surface of the battery with an insulating film to insulate the battery. The insulating film has good tensile rigidity and dimensional stability. In order to improve safety during use, a safety pressure relief device is often provided on the battery. In some cases (for example, when the safety pressure relief device is provided at the bottom of the battery), the insulating film will cover the safety pressure relief device, affecting the pressure relief pressure and increasing the safety risk of the battery. Summary of the invention

[0004] The present application aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the background technology. To this end, one purpose of the present application is to provide a battery insulation film weakening device to alleviate, mitigate or eliminate the problems in the related technology.

[0005] An embodiment of the first aspect of the present application provides a battery insulating film weakening device, comprising: a loading mechanism, configured to load batteries coated with insulating films; a weakening mechanism, located downstream of the loading mechanism on the weakening process line, configured to project a laser beam to a target position on the insulating film of the battery transferred from the loading mechanism to weaken the mechanical strength of the insulating film at the target position; a detection mechanism, located downstream of the weakening mechanism on the weakening process line, configured to detect the weakening quality of the insulating film of the battery transferred from the weakening mechanism at the target position, the weakening quality indicating the degree of weakening of the mechanical strength of the target position on the insulating film after being ablated by the laser beam; an unloading mechanism, located downstream of the detection mechanism on the weakening process line, configured to unload the batteries transferred from the detection mechanism; and a transport mechanism, configured to transport the batteries from the loading mechanism to the weakening mechanism, the detection mechanism and the unloading mechanism in sequence.

[0006] In the technical solution of the embodiment of the present application, a weakening process line is set up. After the battery coated with the insulating film is loaded, the transfer mechanism transfers it, and unloads it after the weakening and detection of the insulating film are completed in sequence, thereby realizing an automated process for weakening the battery insulating film, reducing labor costs and improving production efficiency.

[0007] In some embodiments, the transfer mechanism includes a first material picking jaw assembly, a second material picking jaw assembly, and a third material picking jaw assembly, which are spaced apart from each other along the weakening process line and are configured to act synchronously so that the first material picking jaw assembly transfers the battery located at the loading mechanism to the weakening mechanism, the second material picking jaw assembly transfers the battery located at the weakening mechanism to the detection mechanism, and the third material picking jaw assembly transfers the battery located at the detection mechanism to the unloading mechanism. The transfer mechanism is configured to include three synchronously acting material picking jaw assemblies, so that three batteries can be transferred at the same time, so that the weakening process line can simultaneously perform a weakening process on the insulating films of multiple batteries, saving the time required for production and improving production efficiency.

[0008] In some embodiments, the transfer mechanism further includes a base, a bracket and a support plate, the bracket is fixedly connected to the base and extends along the weakening process line, the support plate is movably connected to the bracket, and the first material picking jaw assembly, the second material picking jaw assembly and the third material picking jaw assembly are mounted on the support plate to move synchronously with the support plate along the weakening process line. The three material picking jaw assemblies are mounted on the support plate, and the synchronous movement of the material picking jaw assemblies can be achieved by moving the support plate, which simplifies the structure of the battery insulation film weakening device and improves the reliability of the device.

[0009] In some embodiments, the first material picking jaw assembly, the second material picking jaw assembly and the third material picking jaw assembly are arranged equidistantly on the support plate along the weakening process line. The spacing between the material picking jaw assemblies is set to be the same as each other, so that each material picking jaw assembly can simultaneously clamp or release batteries located at different mechanisms, thereby improving production efficiency.

[0010] In some embodiments, the weakening mechanism includes: a first positioning assembly configured to position the battery transferred from the loading mechanism at a first predetermined position; and a laser assembly configured to project a laser beam to a target position of the battery. After positioning the battery, projecting the laser beam to the target position to be weakened can achieve accurate positioning of the weakened position and improve the weakening quality.

[0011] In some embodiments, the weakening mechanism further includes: a position calibration component configured to calibrate the position of the laser component so that the laser component focuses on the target position of the insulating film of the battery positioned at the first predetermined position. Before projecting the laser beam, the target position is focused first, so that the laser power intensity maintains good consistency during the weakening process, improves the weakening quality, and at the same time can improve the adaptability of the battery insulating film weakening device, so that it can be applied to the weakening process of a variety of different batteries.

[0012] In some embodiments, the position calibration component includes: a first guide member, which is configured to extend along the direction in which the laser assembly projects the laser beam; a guide block, which is fixedly connected to the laser assembly and movably connected to the first guide member, and the guide block is configured to drive the laser assembly to move along the first guide member; and a first driver, which is transmission-connected to the guide block and is configured to drive the guide block to move along the first guide member to calibrate the position of the laser assembly. The position calibration component can drive the guide block through the first driver, thereby calibrating the position of the laser assembly, achieving the focusing of the laser assembly on the target position, and improving the focusing accuracy.

[0013] In some embodiments, the weakening mechanism further includes: a vacuum cleaner assembly configured to absorb smoke and dust generated by the laser assembly projecting a laser beam onto the insulating film of the battery. By providing the vacuum cleaner assembly, the odor and smoke and dust generated during the weakening process can be cleaned, thereby reducing the impact of the odor and dust on the weakening process during the weakening process.

[0014] In some embodiments, the dust collector assembly includes: a second guide member, which is arranged between the laser assembly and the first positioning assembly and extends in the direction in which the laser assembly projects the laser beam; a dust collection box, which is movably connected to the second guide member and is configured to collect and discharge smoke; a dust collection pipe, which is connected to the dust collection box and is configured to form a discharge channel for smoke; and a second driver, which is transmission-connected to the dust collection box and is configured to drive the dust collection box to move along the second guide member to adjust the distance of the dust collection box relative to the first positioning assembly. The dust collector assembly is set to be adjustable relative to the first positioning assembly and can discharge smoke in time, so that the dust collector assembly can be applied to the weakening process of various different batteries and reduce the influence of smoke on the weakening process.

[0015] In some embodiments, the first positioning assembly includes: a first workbench configured to carry the battery transferred from the loading mechanism; a first sensor configured to detect whether the battery is located on the first workbench; and a first clamp movably connected to the first workbench, configured to clamp the battery and position the battery at a first predetermined position in response to the first sensor detecting that the battery is located on the first workbench. The battery is clamped and positioned according to the detection result of the sensor, so that the battery can be automatically positioned and fixed, thereby improving work efficiency.

[0016] In some embodiments, the detection mechanism includes: a second positioning component configured to position the battery transferred from the weakening mechanism at a second predetermined position; and a visual detector configured to pick up an image of the insulating film of the battery at a target position and detect the weakening quality of the insulating film at the target position based on the image. By detecting the weakened battery, it is possible to detect the pass rate of the weakened battery and the leakage weakening detection, timely identify batteries with quality risks, and improve the reliability of the battery weakening process.

[0017] In some embodiments, the second positioning assembly includes: a second workbench configured to carry the battery transferred from the weakening mechanism; a second sensor configured to detect whether the battery is located on the second workbench; and a second clamp movably connected to the second workbench, configured to clamp the battery and position the battery at a second predetermined position in response to the second sensor detecting that the battery is located on the second workbench. The battery is clamped and positioned according to the detection result of the sensor, so that the battery can be automatically positioned and fixed, thereby improving work efficiency.

[0018] In some embodiments, the loading mechanism includes: a first conveyor, configured to carry and transport batteries; a third driver, drivingly connected to the first conveyor and configured to drive the first conveyor to transport batteries; and a first stopper, arranged in the transport direction of the first conveyor, configured to block the batteries transported by the first conveyor at a predetermined material taking position for the transfer mechanism to transfer to the weakening mechanism. Using the loading mechanism to load the batteries can realize automatic loading of the batteries, improve work efficiency, and reduce labor costs.

[0019] In some embodiments, the loading mechanism further includes: a third sensor configured to detect whether the battery is located on the first conveyor, wherein the third driver is configured to drive the first conveyor to convey the battery in response to the third sensor detecting that the battery is located on the first conveyor. The battery is conveyed according to the detection result of the sensor, reducing the idling of the equipment and reducing the risk of misoperation.

[0020] In some embodiments, the unloading mechanism includes: a second conveyor configured to carry and convey the battery transferred from the detection mechanism; and a fourth driver connected to the second conveyor and configured to drive the second conveyor to convey the battery away from the unloading mechanism. Unloading the battery using the unloading mechanism can realize automatic unloading of the battery, improve work efficiency, and reduce labor costs.

[0021] In some embodiments, the unloading mechanism further includes: a fourth sensor configured to detect whether the battery is located on the second conveyor, wherein the fourth driver is configured to drive the second conveyor to convey the battery away from the unloading mechanism in response to the fourth sensor detecting that the battery is located on the second conveyor. The battery is conveyed according to the detection result of the sensor, reducing the idling of the equipment and reducing the risk of misoperation.

[0022] The second aspect of the present application provides a battery insulating film weakening method, which is applied to the battery insulating film weakening equipment described in the above embodiment, including: controlling a loading mechanism to load a battery coated with an insulating film; controlling a transport mechanism to transport the battery from the loading mechanism to a weakening mechanism; controlling the weakening mechanism to project a laser beam to a target position on the insulating film of the battery to weaken the mechanical strength of the insulating film at the target position; controlling the transport mechanism to transport the battery from the weakening mechanism to a detection mechanism; controlling the detection mechanism to detect the weakening quality of the insulating film of the battery at the target position; controlling the transport mechanism to transport the battery from the detection mechanism to the unloading mechanism; and controlling the unloading mechanism to unload the battery. After the battery coated with an insulating film is loaded, it is transported, the weakening and detection of the insulating film are completed in sequence, and finally the battery is unloaded, thereby realizing an automated process for weakening the battery insulating film, reducing labor costs, and improving production efficiency.

[0023] In some embodiments, the transfer mechanism includes a first material picking jaw assembly, a second material picking jaw assembly, and a third material picking jaw assembly, which are spaced apart from each other along the weakening process line and are controlled to synchronously perform the following actions: the first material picking jaw assembly transfers the battery located at the loading mechanism to the weakening mechanism; the second material picking jaw assembly transfers the battery located at the weakening mechanism to the detection mechanism; and the third material picking jaw assembly transfers the battery located at the detection mechanism to the unloading mechanism. Using three synchronously acting material picking jaw assemblies to transfer three batteries at the same time allows the weakening process line to simultaneously perform a weakening process on the insulating films of multiple batteries, saving the time required for production and improving production efficiency.

[0024] In some embodiments, the transfer mechanism also includes a base, a bracket and a support plate, the bracket is fixedly connected to the base and extends along the weakening process line, the support plate is movably connected to the bracket, and the first material picking jaw assembly, the second material picking jaw assembly and the third material picking jaw assembly are installed on the support plate to move synchronously with the support plate along the weakening process line, wherein the transfer mechanism is controlled to synchronously perform the actions through the following steps: control the first material picking jaw assembly, the second material picking jaw assembly and the third material picking jaw assembly to respectively clamp the batteries located at the loading mechanism, the batteries located at the weakening mechanism and the batteries located at the detection mechanism; control the support plate to advance from the starting position to the ending position along the weakening process line; control the first material picking jaw assembly, the second material picking jaw assembly and the third material picking jaw assembly to respectively release the batteries located at the loading mechanism to the weakening mechanism, release the batteries located at the weakening mechanism to the detection mechanism and release the batteries located at the detection mechanism to the unloading mechanism; and control the support plate to retreat from the ending position to the starting position along the weakening process line. The movement of the support plate drives the synchronous movement of the material picking jaw assembly on the weakening process line. At the same time, the three material picking jaw assemblies synchronously clamp and release the battery, which simplifies the structure of the battery insulation film weakening equipment, improves the reliability of the equipment, and improves production efficiency.

[0025] The above description is only an overview of the technical solution of the present application. In order to more clearly understand the technical means of the present application, it can be implemented in accordance with the contents of the specification. In order to make the above and other purposes, features and advantages of the present application more obvious and easy to understand, the specific implementation methods of the present application are listed below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] In the accompanying drawings, unless otherwise specified, the same reference numerals throughout the multiple drawings represent the same or similar parts or elements. These drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. It should be understood that these drawings only depict some embodiments disclosed in the present application and should not be regarded as limiting the scope of the present application.

[0027] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of a battery insulation film weakening device according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0028] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the transfer mechanism of some embodiments of the present application;

[0029] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the structure of a weakening mechanism in some embodiments of the present application;

[0030] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of a position calibration component in some embodiments of the present application;

[0031] Figure 5A schematic diagram of the structure of a vacuum cleaner assembly according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0032] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of a first positioning component in some embodiments of the present application;

[0033] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the detection mechanism of some embodiments of the present application;

[0034] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the feeding mechanism of some embodiments of the present application;

[0035] Fig. 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the material taking clamping claw assembly of some embodiments of the present application;

[0036] Fig.10 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of a material retrieving clamp assembly according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0037] Fig.11 A schematic diagram of a process for weakening a battery insulating film according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0038] Fig.12 A schematic diagram of the flow of synchronous execution of actions by the transfer mechanism in some embodiments of the present application.

[0039] Description of reference numerals:

[0040] Battery insulation film weakening device 10;

[0041] Feeding mechanism 1, weakening mechanism 2, detection mechanism 3, transfer mechanism 4, unloading mechanism 5;

[0042] A first conveyor 101, a third sensor 102, a third driver 103, a first limit block 104, and a feeding mechanism bracket 105;

[0043] Weakening mechanism base 21, first positioning assembly 22, laser assembly 23, position adjustment assembly 24, position calibration assembly 25, dust collector assembly 26;

[0044] A first fixture 221, a first workbench 222, and a first sensor 223;

[0045] Block 2211, support plate 2212, clamping adjustment member 2213, linear guide rail 2221, adjustment support plate 2222, adjustment clamping plate 2223, clamping cylinder 2224, support platform 2225;

[0046] A first adjustment handle 241, an adjustment guide 242, a position adjustment plate 243, a second adjustment handle 244, and an adjustment support 245;

[0047] Position calibration component base 251, first guide member 252, guide block 253, reducer 254, first driver 255;

[0048] A dust collecting box 261, a second guide member 262, a second driver 263, and a dust collecting pipe 264;

[0049] Detection mechanism base 31, visual detector 32, second positioning assembly 33;

[0050] Detection lens 321, detection support 322, detection bracket 323;

[0051] A second fixture 331, a second workbench 332;

[0052] A first material picking jaw assembly 41 -A, a second material picking jaw assembly 41 -B, a third material picking jaw assembly 41 -C, a support plate 42, a bracket 43, and a base 44;

[0053] Lifting cylinder 411, clamping claw guide rail 412, buffer 413, upper limit detection sensor 414, lower limit detection sensor 415, clamping claw 416, lifting shaft 417, elastic member 418, sliding member 419, supporting guide rail 431, transfer base plate 432. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] The following embodiments of the technical solution of the present application are described in detail in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The following embodiments are only used to more clearly illustrate the technical solution of the present application, and are therefore only used as examples, and cannot be used to limit the scope of protection of the present application.

[0055] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by technicians in the technical field to which this application belongs; the terms used herein are only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit this application; the terms "including" and "having" in the specification and claims of this application and the above-mentioned figure descriptions and any variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions.

[0056] In the description of the embodiments of the present application, the technical terms "first", "second", etc. are only used to distinguish different objects, and cannot be understood as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly indicating the number, specific order or primary and secondary relationship of the indicated technical features. In the description of the embodiments of the present application, the meaning of "multiple" is more than two, unless otherwise clearly and specifically defined.

[0057] Reference to "embodiments" herein means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in conjunction with the embodiments may be included in at least one embodiment of the present application. The appearance of the phrase in various locations in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it an independent or alternative embodiment that is mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It is explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein may be combined with other embodiments.

[0058] In the description of the embodiments of the present application, the term "and / or" is only a description of the association relationship of the associated objects, indicating that there may be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can represent: A exists alone, A and B exist at the same time, and B exists alone. In addition, the character " / " in this article generally indicates that the associated objects before and after are in an "or" relationship.

[0059] In the description of the embodiments of the present application, the term "multiple" refers to more than two (including two). Similarly, "multiple groups" refers to more than two groups (including two groups), and "multiple pieces" refers to more than two pieces (including two pieces).

[0060] In the description of the embodiments of the present application, the technical terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc. indicate orientations or positional relationships based on the orientations or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, which are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of the present application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the referred device or element must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be understood as a limitation on the embodiments of the present application.

[0061] In the description of the embodiments of the present application, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, technical terms such as "installed", "connected", "connected", "fixed" and the like should be understood in a broad sense. For example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, and it can be the internal connection of two elements or the interaction relationship between two elements. For those of ordinary skill in the art, the specific meanings of the above terms in the embodiments of the present application can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0062] At present, from the perspective of market development, the application of power batteries is becoming more and more extensive. Power batteries are not only used in energy storage power systems such as hydropower, thermal power, wind power and solar power stations, but also widely used in electric vehicles such as electric bicycles, electric motorcycles, electric cars, as well as military equipment and aerospace and other fields. With the continuous expansion of the application field of power batteries, the market demand is also constantly expanding.

[0063] During the battery manufacturing process, it is sometimes necessary to coat the outer surface of the battery with an insulating film to insulate the battery. Usually, a polyester film (PET film) with a thickness of about 0.1 mm is used. The insulating film has good tensile rigidity and dimensional stability. After the coating is completed, the insulating film often covers most of the outer surface of the battery. In order to improve safety during use, a safety pressure relief device (such as an explosion-proof valve, etc.) is installed on the battery. In some cases (for example, when the safety pressure relief device is set at the bottom of the battery), the insulating film will cover the safety pressure relief device. When the battery needs to be depressurized, the insulating film will affect the pressure relief pressure, hinder the normal pressure relief of the safety pressure relief device, and increase the safety risk of the battery.

[0064] In order to reduce the influence of the insulating film on the safety pressure relief device, the insulating film at the safety pressure relief device needs to be weakened so that the safety pressure relief device can release pressure normally and improve the safety of the battery.

[0065] Based on the above considerations, in order to weaken the insulating film at the battery safety pressure relief device, a battery insulating film weakening device is designed. Through the transfer mechanism, the battery coated with the insulating film passes through the loading mechanism, the weakening mechanism, the detection mechanism and the unloading mechanism in sequence to complete the weakening of the insulating film, which can realize the automated process of weakening the battery insulating film.

[0066] The battery insulating film weakening device disclosed in the embodiment of the present application can be used, but not limited to, in the production process of batteries used in electrical devices such as vehicles, ships or aircraft. The battery insulating film weakening device disclosed in the present application can be used, which is conducive to realizing the automated process of weakening the battery insulating film, reducing labor costs and improving production efficiency.

[0067] The present application embodiment provides a battery insulation film weakening device 10. Figure 1 The battery insulating film weakening device 10 includes a loading mechanism 1, a weakening mechanism 2, a detection mechanism 3, a unloading mechanism 5 and a transfer mechanism 4.

[0068] The loading mechanism 1 is configured to load batteries coated with an insulating film.

[0069] The weakening mechanism 2 is located downstream of the loading mechanism 1 on the weakening process line, and is configured to project a laser beam to a target position on the insulating film of the battery transferred from the loading mechanism 1 to weaken the mechanical strength of the insulating film at the target position.

[0070] The detection mechanism 3 is located downstream of the weakening mechanism 2 on the weakening process line, and is configured to detect the weakening quality of the insulating film of the battery transferred from the weakening mechanism 2 at the target position. The weakening quality indicates the degree of weakening of the mechanical strength of the target position on the insulating film after being ablated by the laser beam.

[0071] The unloading mechanism 5 is located downstream of the testing mechanism 3 on the weakening process line, and is configured to unload the batteries transferred from the testing mechanism 3 .

[0072] The transfer mechanism 4 is configured to transfer the batteries from the loading mechanism 1 to the weakening mechanism 2 , the detecting mechanism 3 and the unloading mechanism 5 in sequence.

[0073] In the embodiments of the present application, the term "battery" may cover a battery cell, or a series, parallel or mixed structure of multiple battery cells (for example, a battery pack or a battery module). The term "weakening process line" refers to the relative spatial arrangement of the various components of the battery insulating film weakening equipment in order to complete the various steps of the weakening process. The relative spatial arrangement of the various components can be designed according to the application scenario, for example, they can be arranged in sequence along a straight line or an arc, and the present disclosure does not limit this. In addition, the term "downstream" is used in this article to refer to the relative position on the weakening process line, where "A is located downstream of B" means that the battery undergoes B treatment before A treatment on the weakening process line. The term "weakening quality" refers to the degree of weakening of the mechanical strength of the target position on the insulating film after being ablated by the laser beam, wherein the greater the degree of weakening, the higher the weakening quality. The content of weakening quality detection will be further described later.

[0074] The battery coated with the insulating film can be transferred to the loading mechanism 1 by manual or pre-automatic operation, and the loading mechanism 1 transfers the battery downstream along the direction of the weakening process line. The transfer mechanism 4 transfers the battery to the weakening mechanism 2 to complete the weakening of the insulating film. The weakening mechanism 2 weakens the mechanical strength of the insulating film at the target position of the insulating film by projecting a laser beam to the target position of the insulating film. In the example, the target position is the outer contour line of the safety pressure relief device on the insulating film corresponding to the battery, or it can be the projection surface of the safety pressure relief device on the insulating film. After the weakening mechanism 2 finishes weakening the insulating film, the transfer mechanism 4 transfers the battery to the detection mechanism 3. The detection mechanism 3 detects the weakening quality at the target position of the insulating film to timely identify the battery with quality problems or not weakened. After the detection is completed, the transfer mechanism 4 transfers the battery to the unloading mechanism 5. The unloading mechanism 5 transfers the battery downstream along the direction of the weakening process line so that the battery leaves the weakening process line.

[0075] By setting up a weakening process line, after the batteries coated with insulating film are loaded, the transfer mechanism transfers them, and after the weakening and inspection of the insulating film are completed in sequence, the materials are unloaded, thus realizing an automated process for weakening the battery insulating film, reducing labor costs and improving production efficiency.

[0076] According to some embodiments of the present application, reference Figure 2 The transfer mechanism 4 includes a first material picking jaw assembly 41-A, a second material picking jaw assembly 41-B and a third material picking jaw assembly 41-C. The first material picking jaw assembly 41-A, the second material picking jaw assembly 41-B and the third material picking jaw assembly 41-C are spaced apart from each other along the weakening process line, and are constructed to act synchronously so that the first material picking jaw assembly 41-A transfers the battery located at the loading mechanism 1 to the weakening mechanism 2, the second material picking jaw assembly 41-B transfers the battery located at the weakening mechanism 2 to the detection mechanism 3, and the third material picking jaw assembly 41-C transfers the battery located at the detection mechanism 3 to the unloading mechanism 5.

[0077] In order to further improve production efficiency, three material picking claw assemblies can be provided on the transfer mechanism 4 to transfer the batteries located at the feeding mechanism 1, the batteries located at the weakening mechanism 2, and the batteries located at the detection mechanism 3 respectively.

[0078] In some embodiments, the spacing between the first material picking jaw assembly 41-A, the second material picking jaw assembly 41-B and the third material picking jaw assembly 41-C can be determined according to the spacing between the feeding mechanism 1, the weakening mechanism 2 and the detection mechanism 3 along the weakening process line direction. For example, the spacing between the first material picking jaw assembly 41-A, the second material picking jaw assembly 41-B and the third material picking jaw assembly 41-C can be equal to the spacing between the feeding mechanism 1, the weakening mechanism 2 and the detection mechanism 3 along the weakening process line direction. In this way, the three material picking jaw assemblies can simultaneously transfer three batteries at the feeding mechanism 1, the weakening mechanism 2 and the detection mechanism 3.

[0079] In some embodiments, the three material picking jaw assemblies can use the same structure. Taking the first material picking jaw assembly 41-A as an example, Fig. 9 and Fig.10As shown, when it is necessary to clamp the battery, the lifting cylinder 411 drives the lifting shaft 417 to move downward, the clamping claw 416 moves along the clamping claw guide rail 412, and the elastic member 418 is in a compressed state at this time. When it is lowered to the corresponding height where the battery is located, the sliding member 419 and the clamping claw 416 cooperate to clamp the battery. After clamping the battery, the lifting cylinder 411 retracts upward, driving the lifting shaft 417 to retract upward, the sliding member 419 and the clamping claw 416 and the clamped battery are lifted synchronously, and the lifting to the required height is determined by the upper limit detection sensor 414. The buffer 413 can provide buffering for the movement of the clamping claw 416 along the clamping claw guide rail 412. When it is necessary to release the battery, the lifting cylinder 411 drives the lifting shaft 417 to move downward, and the sliding member 419 and the clamping claw 416 and the clamped battery are lowered synchronously. When the lower limit detection sensor 415 detects that the release distance is appropriate, it indicates that the release is in place, and the clamping claw 416 can release the clamped battery.

[0080] It should be understood that in some other embodiments, the lifting cylinder 411 may also be replaced by other forms of driving mechanisms such as a motor.

[0081] In some embodiments, the material-retrieving jaw assembly may also have a flexible alarm function. When the material-retrieving jaw assembly drives the battery to move downward, if there is a foreign object blocking the battery below, the jaw 416 holding the battery can no longer move downward, and the resistance will be transmitted to the sliding member 419, thereby causing displacement between the sliding member 419 and the lifting shaft 417, and the elastic member 418 is further compressed. The lower limit detection sensor 415 moves synchronously with the sliding member 419, and the detection signal of the lower limit detection sensor 415 is abnormal due to the displacement, and an alarm is issued.

[0082] The transfer mechanism is configured to include three synchronously acting material picking claw assemblies, which can realize the simultaneous transfer of three batteries, so that the weakening process line can perform the weakening process on the insulating films of multiple batteries at the same time, saving the time required for production and improving production efficiency.

[0083] According to some embodiments of the present application, reference Figure 2 The transfer mechanism 4 further includes a base 44, a bracket 43 and a support plate 42. The bracket 43 is fixedly connected to the base 44 and extends along the weakening process line. The support plate 42 is movably connected to the bracket 43. The first material picking jaw assembly 41-A, the second material picking jaw assembly 41-B and the third material picking jaw assembly 41-C are mounted on the support plate 42 to move synchronously with the support plate 42 along the weakening process line.

[0084] like Figure 2As shown, different movable connection modes can be used between the support plate 42 and the bracket 43, such as sliding connection, linear motion connection, etc. The shapes of the bracket 43 and the support plate 42 can be designed according to the direction of the weakening process line. Figure 2 In the example shown, the bracket 43 is provided with a support rail 431 and a transfer bottom plate 432. The support plate 42 can slide along the support rail 431. The first material picking jaw assembly 41-A, the second material picking jaw assembly 41-B and the third material picking jaw assembly 41-C are mounted on the support plate 42. When the support plate 42 slides along the support rail 431, the three material picking jaw assemblies move synchronously therewith.

[0085] The three material-taking clamping jaw assemblies are mounted on a support plate, and the synchronous movement of the material-taking clamping jaw assemblies can be achieved by moving the support plate, thereby simplifying the structure of the battery insulating film weakening device and improving the reliability of the device.

[0086] According to some embodiments of the present application, the first material picking jaw assembly 41 -A, the second material picking jaw assembly 41 -B and the third material picking jaw assembly 41 -C are arranged equidistantly on the support plate 42 along the weakening process line.

[0087] When designing the weakening process line, the distances between the places where the batteries are placed on the feeding mechanism 1, the weakening mechanism 2, the detection mechanism 3, and the unloading mechanism 5 can be set to be arranged equidistantly along the weakening process line. Correspondingly, the first material picking jaw assembly 41-A, the second material picking jaw assembly 41-B, and the third material picking jaw assembly 41-C can also be set to be arranged equidistantly along the weakening process line. The spacing between the material picking jaw assemblies is equal to the distance between the places where the batteries are placed on the feeding mechanism 1, the weakening mechanism 2, the detection mechanism 3, and the unloading mechanism 5. The movement of the support plate 42 can drive the first material picking jaw assembly 41-A, the second material picking jaw assembly 41-B, and the third material picking jaw assembly 41-C to move to the corresponding positions of the feeding mechanism 1, the weakening mechanism 2, and the detection mechanism 3 at the same time to clamp the batteries located at the feeding mechanism 1, the weakening mechanism 2, and the detection mechanism 3 respectively. After clamping the battery, the support plate 42 moves along the weakening process assembly line, which can drive the first material picking jaw assembly 41-A, the second material picking jaw assembly 41-B and the third material picking jaw assembly 41-C to move to the corresponding positions of the weakening mechanism 2, the detection mechanism 3, and the unloading mechanism 5 at the same time to release the clamped batteries to the weakening mechanism 2, the detection mechanism 3, and the unloading mechanism 5 respectively.

[0088] The spacing between the material-retrieving clamping jaw assemblies is set to be the same as each other, so that each material-retrieving clamping jaw assembly can clamp or release batteries located at different mechanisms at the same time, thereby improving production efficiency.

[0089] According to some embodiments of the present application, reference Figure 3The weakening mechanism 2 includes a first positioning component 22 and a laser component 23 .

[0090] The first positioning assembly 22 is configured to position the battery transferred from the loading mechanism 1 at a first predetermined position.

[0091] The laser assembly 23 is configured to project a laser beam toward a target location of the battery.

[0092] like Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, the weakening mechanism 2 further includes a weakening mechanism base 21 , and the first positioning assembly 22 can be disposed on the weakening mechanism base 21 .

[0093] The battery is fixed at a first predetermined position by the first positioning assembly 22, so that the laser beam projected by the laser assembly 23 can be projected to the target position. The laser assembly 23 can be set at a suitable position away from the first positioning assembly 22. Figure 4 As shown, the weakening mechanism 2 may include a position adjustment component 24 fixedly connected to the laser component 23. The position adjustment component 24 is provided with a first adjustment handle 241 and a second adjustment handle 244. By rotating the first adjustment handle 241 and / or the second adjustment handle 244 and adjusting the guide member 242 and the position adjustment plate 243, the laser component 23 may be driven to move in a direction perpendicular to the laser beam and / or in a vertical direction, thereby adjusting the position of the laser component 23 in a direction perpendicular to the laser beam and / or in a vertical direction, so that the laser beam can be accurately projected to the target position.

[0094] In some embodiments, for the same batch of batteries of the same size, the position adjustment component 24 can be used to determine the position of the laser component 23 in the direction perpendicular to the laser beam and in the vertical direction before the weakening process begins. During the weakening process of this batch of batteries, the position of the laser component 23 in the direction perpendicular to the laser beam and in the vertical direction is no longer adjusted.

[0095] When weakening the insulating film, the laser assembly 23 projects a laser beam toward a target position of the battery to weaken the mechanical strength of the insulating film at the target position.

[0096] In some embodiments, the laser assembly 23 may include a laser galvanometer and a laser cooling device.

[0097] After positioning the battery, projecting a laser beam toward the target position that needs to be weakened can achieve accurate positioning of the weakening position and improve the weakening quality.

[0098] According to some embodiments of the present application, reference Figure 4 The weakening mechanism 2 also includes a position calibration component 25.

[0099] The position calibration assembly 25 is configured to calibrate the position of the laser assembly 23 so that the laser assembly 23 is focused on a target position of the insulating film of the battery positioned at the first predetermined position.

[0100] like Figure 4 As shown, the position calibration component 25 can calibrate the position of the laser component 23 along the direction of the laser beam. After the battery is positioned at the first predetermined position, the position calibration component 25 can drive the laser component 23 to focus on the target position.

[0101] Before projecting the laser beam, the target position is focused first so that the laser power intensity maintains good consistency during the weakening process, improving the weakening quality. At the same time, the adaptability of the battery insulation film weakening equipment can be improved, making it applicable to the weakening process of a variety of different batteries.

[0102] According to some embodiments of the present application, reference Figure 4 The position calibration assembly 25 includes a first guide member 252 , a guide block 253 and a first driver 255 .

[0103] The first guide member 252 is disposed to extend in a direction in which the laser assembly 23 projects the laser beam.

[0104] The guide block 253 is fixedly connected to the laser assembly 23 and movably connected to the first guide member 252. The guide block 253 is configured to drive the laser assembly 23 to move along the first guide member 252.

[0105] The first driver 255 is in driving connection with the guide block 253 , and is configured to drive the guide block 253 to move along the first guide member 252 to calibrate the position of the laser assembly 23 .

[0106] like Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, the position calibration component 25 may further include a position calibration component base 251, and the first guide member 252 may be disposed on the position calibration component base 251. Different movable connection modes may be used between the first guide member 252 and the guide block 253, such as a sliding connection, a linear motion connection, etc. Figure 4 In the example shown, the first guide member 252 is a guide rail extending in the direction of the laser beam, and the guide block 253 can slide along the first guide member 252. The guide block 253 can drive the laser assembly 23 to move. In the example, the guide block 253 is connected to the laser assembly 23 by adjusting the support member 245. The first driver 255 drives the guide block 253 to move along the first guide member 252, thereby driving the laser assembly 23 to move along the first guide member 252. The first driver 255 can use a driving mechanism such as a motor and a cylinder, which is not limited in the present disclosure.

[0107] In some embodiments, the position calibration assembly 25 may further include a reducer 254 to provide a buffer for the movement of the guide block 253 , reduce the risk of damage to the equipment due to excessive movement of the guide block 253 , and improve the stability of the position calibration assembly 25 .

[0108] The position calibration component can drive the guide block through the first driver, thereby calibrating the position of the laser component, achieving the focusing of the laser component on the target position, and improving the focusing accuracy.

[0109] According to some embodiments of the present application, reference Figure 5 , the weakening mechanism 2 also includes a dust collector component 26.

[0110] The dust collector assembly 26 is configured to absorb dust generated when the laser assembly 23 projects a laser beam toward an insulating film of a battery.

[0111] When the laser assembly 23 projects a laser beam onto the insulating film, a peculiar smell and a small amount of smoke may be generated, which may interfere with the weakening process. Therefore, a vacuum cleaner assembly 26 may be provided on the weakening mechanism 2 to absorb the generated smoke.

[0112] By setting up a dust collector assembly, the odor and smoke generated during the weakening process can be cleaned, and the influence of the odor and dust on the weakening process during the weakening process can be reduced.

[0113] According to some embodiments of the present application, reference Figure 5 The dust collector assembly 26 includes a second guide member 262 , a dust collection box 261 , a dust collection pipe 264 and a second driver 263 .

[0114] The second guide member 262 is disposed between the laser assembly 23 and the first positioning assembly 22 , and extends in a direction in which the laser assembly 23 projects a laser beam.

[0115] The dust collecting box 261 is movably connected to the second guide member 262 and is configured to collect and discharge smoke and dust.

[0116] The dust suction pipe 264 is communicated with the dust suction box 261 and is configured to form a dust exhaust passage.

[0117] The second driver 263 is in driving connection with the dust box 261 , and is configured to drive the dust box 261 to move along the second guide member 262 to adjust the distance of the dust box 261 relative to the first positioning assembly 22 .

[0118] like Figure 5As shown, the second driver 263 can drive the dust box 261 to move along the second guide member 262, so that when the laser assembly 23 projects a laser beam, the distance between the dust box 261 and the battery fixed on the first positioning assembly 22 is shorter, so that smoke and dust can be better collected. When the battery or dust box 261 needs to be replaced, the distance between the dust box 261 and the battery fixed on the first positioning assembly 22 is longer, which is convenient for replacement and cleaning. The second driver 263 can use a driving mechanism such as a motor or a cylinder, which is not limited in the present disclosure. Figure 5 In the example shown, the second guide member 262 is a guide rail along the direction of the laser beam.

[0119] In some embodiments, the vacuum cleaner assembly 26 can be connected to the negative pressure filtration system of the production workshop. The negative pressure filtration system is started when the start condition is met. The start condition can be set according to the usage scenario, for example, when the battery is fixed on the first positioning assembly 22 or when the laser assembly 23 starts to project a laser beam to the target position, the negative pressure filtration system is started, thereby achieving the cleaning of smoke and dust.

[0120] The vacuum cleaner assembly is set to be adjustable relative to the first positioning assembly and to be able to discharge smoke and dust in time, so that the vacuum cleaner assembly can be applied to the weakening process of a variety of different batteries and reduce the impact of smoke and dust on the weakening work.

[0121] According to some embodiments of the present application, reference Figure 6 The first positioning assembly 22 includes a first workbench 222 , a first sensor 223 and a first fixture 221 .

[0122] The first workbench 222 is configured to carry the batteries transferred from the loading mechanism 1 .

[0123] The first sensor 223 is configured to detect whether the battery is located on the first workbench 222 .

[0124] The first clamp 221 is movably connected to the first workbench 222 , and is configured to clamp the battery and position the battery at a first predetermined position in response to the first sensor 223 detecting that the battery is located on the first workbench 222 .

[0125] The transfer mechanism 4 clamps the battery located at the loading mechanism 1, transfers it to the weakened component and places it on the first workbench 222. The first sensor 223 can be set on the surface of the first workbench 222, so as to detect whether the battery is placed on the first workbench 222. If the first sensor 223 detects that the battery is located on the first workbench 222, the first clamp 221 will clamp the battery to fix the battery.

[0126] exist Figure 6In the example shown, the first workbench 222 may include a linear guide 2221, an adjustment support plate 2222, an adjustment clamping plate 2223, a clamping cylinder 2224 and a support platform 2225. The first fixture 221 may include a block 2211, a support plate 2212 and a clamping adjustment member 2213. The first fixture 221 may move along the linear guide 2221. The adjustment support plate 2222 may provide support for the first fixture 221. The clamping adjustment member 2213 may cooperate with the adjustment clamping plate 2223 to achieve clamping of the battery. The clamping cylinder 2224 may drive the first fixture 221 to move, thereby clamping the battery. It should be understood that in some other embodiments, the clamping cylinder 2224 may also be replaced by a drive mechanism in other forms such as a motor. The battery may be placed on the support platform 2225. A groove may be provided on the side of the support platform 2225 facing the battery. The first sensor 223 may be provided in the groove. The type, quantity and position of the first sensor 223 can be designed according to the applicable occasion. For example, a pressure sensor or a photoelectric sensor arranged in the groove can be used, and the present disclosure does not limit this. Two card blocks 2211, two support plates 2212 and two clamping adjustment members 2213 are respectively arranged on both sides of the battery to clamp the battery. The shape of the card block 2211 can be designed according to the shape of the battery. Different card blocks can be replaced for different batteries. The support plate 2212 is arranged between the card block 2211 and the clamping adjustment member 2213, and the clamping adjustment member 2213 pushes the card block 2211 to move through the support plate 2212 to clamp the battery.

[0127] In some embodiments, Figure 5 As shown, the dust collector assembly 26 can be disposed on the adjustment support plate 2222, thereby reducing the size of the device and improving integration.

[0128] The battery is clamped and positioned according to the detection result of the sensor, so that the battery can be automatically positioned and fixed, thereby improving work efficiency.

[0129] According to some embodiments of the present application, reference Figure 7 The detection mechanism 3 includes a second positioning component 33 and a visual detector 32.

[0130] The second positioning assembly 33 is configured to position the battery transferred from the weakening mechanism 2 at a second predetermined position.

[0131] The visual detector 32 is configured to pick up an image of the insulating film of the battery at a target position and detect a weakened mass of the insulating film at the target position based on the image.

[0132] like Figure 7As shown, in some embodiments, the detection mechanism 3 may further include a detection mechanism base 31 , and the second positioning assembly 33 may be disposed on the detection mechanism base 31 .

[0133] The visual detector 32 may include a detection lens 321, a detection support 322, and a detection bracket 323. The detection lens 321 is mounted on the detection bracket 323 through the detection support 322. The detection lens 321 may be a charge-coupled device (CCD) lens, etc. The position of the visual detector 32 may be set to be fixed or adjustable to better pick up the image at the target position.

[0134] After the weakening mechanism 2 completes the weakening process of the insulating film of the battery, the battery is transported to the detection mechanism 3 by the transport mechanism 4. The second positioning component 33 fixes the battery and positions it at the second predetermined position. The visual detector 32 picks up the image of the insulating film at the target position and detects the weakening quality at the target position.

[0135] In some embodiments, the weakening quality can be detected based on the ablation marks produced by the laser beam projected at the target position. The shape of the ablation mark can be designed according to the product requirements, for example, it can be a circular or rectangular intermittent pattern, etc. The visual detector 32 picks up the image of the ablation mark at the target position, and determines the weakening quality at the target position by detecting whether the characteristic parameters of the ablation mark are qualified. In the example, the color of the insulating film is usually blue, and the battery casing is usually made of aluminum and white in color, so the ratio of the area of ​​the white area to the blue area at the ablation mark can characterize the weakening quality. In this way, the visual detector 32 can detect the ratio of the area of ​​the white area to the blue area from the image of the ablation mark to determine the weakening quality.

[0136] Testing weakened batteries can achieve qualified rate detection and leakage detection of battery weakening, timely identify batteries with quality risks, and improve the reliability of the battery weakening process.

[0137] According to some embodiments of the present application, reference Figure 7 The second positioning assembly 33 includes a second workbench 332 , a second sensor (not shown) and a second fixture 331 .

[0138] The second workbench 332 is configured to carry the batteries transferred from the weakening mechanism 2 .

[0139] The second sensor is configured to detect whether the battery is located on the second workbench 332 .

[0140] The second clamp 331 is movably connected to the second workbench 332 , and is configured to clamp the battery and position the battery at a second predetermined position in response to the second sensor detecting that the battery is located on the second workbench 332 .

[0141] The second positioning assembly 33 can use the same structure as the first positioning assembly 22. Figure 6 For the sake of brevity, it will not be described here.

[0142] According to some embodiments of the present application, the loading mechanism 1 includes a first conveyor 101 , a third driver 103 and a first limiting block 104 .

[0143] The first conveyor 101 is configured to carry and convey batteries.

[0144] The third driver 103 is in driving connection with the first conveyor 101 and is configured to drive the first conveyor 101 to convey batteries.

[0145] The first limiting block 104 is arranged in the conveying direction of the first conveyor 101 , and is configured to block the batteries conveyed by the first conveyor 101 at a predetermined material taking position for the transfer mechanism 4 to transfer to the weakening mechanism 2 .

[0146] like Figure 8 As shown, in some embodiments, the loading mechanism 1 may further include a loading mechanism bracket 105 , and the first conveyor 101 may be disposed on the loading mechanism bracket 105 .

[0147] During the battery loading process, the batteries are placed on the first conveyor 101 and conveyed downstream by the first conveyor 101 in the direction of the weakening process line. The first conveyor 101 may include a conveyor belt, a roller conveyor, etc., which is not limited in the present disclosure. The third driver 103 may use a conveying mechanism such as a motor to drive the first conveyor 101 to convey the batteries. A first limit block 104 is also provided in the conveying direction of the first conveyor 101. The position of the first limit block 104 can be set according to the material picking position of the transfer mechanism 4. Figure 8 In the example shown, the first stopper 104 is disposed at the end of the first conveyor 101 along the conveying direction. When the battery is conveyed to the point where it contacts the first stopper 104, it will be blocked by the first stopper 104 and cannot move further, thereby being restricted to a predetermined material-collecting position. The transfer mechanism 4 can clamp the battery at the material-collecting position and transfer it to the weakening mechanism 2.

[0148] Using a loading mechanism to load the batteries can realize automatic loading of the batteries, improve work efficiency and reduce labor costs.

[0149] According to some embodiments of the present application, reference Figure 8The feeding mechanism 1 also includes a third sensor 102 .

[0150] The third sensor 102 is configured to detect whether the battery is located on the first conveyor 101. The third driver 103 is configured to drive the first conveyor 101 to convey the battery in response to the third sensor 102 detecting that the battery is located on the first conveyor 101.

[0151] like Figure 8 As shown, the loading mechanism 1 can be provided with a third sensor 102 to detect whether the battery is placed on the first conveyor 101. If the third sensor 102 does not detect the battery, the first conveyor 101 stops conveying; if the third sensor 102 detects that the battery is on the first conveyor 101, the third driver 103 drives the first conveyor 101 to convey the battery.

[0152] The type, quantity and position of the third sensor 102 can be designed according to the applicable occasion. For example, a pressure sensor arranged on the bottom surface of the first conveyor 101 can be used, or a photoelectric sensor arranged on the side wall of the first conveyor 101 can be used, and the present disclosure does not limit this.

[0153] The battery is transferred according to the detection results of the sensor to reduce the idling of the equipment and reduce the risk of misoperation.

[0154] According to some embodiments of the present application, the unloading mechanism 5 includes a second conveyor and a fourth drive.

[0155] The second conveyor is configured to carry and convey the batteries transferred from the inspection mechanism 3 .

[0156] The fourth driver is in driving connection with the second conveyor and is configured to drive the second conveyor to convey the batteries to leave the unloading mechanism 5 .

[0157] The second conveyor and the fourth driver in the unloading mechanism 5 can use the same design as the first conveyor 101 and the third driver 103 in the loading mechanism 1. In some embodiments, the unloading mechanism 5 can also include an unloading mechanism bracket, and the second conveyor can be arranged on the unloading mechanism bracket.

[0158] During the unloading process of the battery, the transfer mechanism 4 places the battery on the second conveyor. The fourth driver drives the second conveyor to convey the battery so that the battery leaves the weakening process line.

[0159] Using a feeding mechanism to feed the batteries can realize automatic feeding of the batteries, improve work efficiency and reduce labor costs.

[0160] According to some embodiments of the present application, the unloading mechanism 5 also includes a fourth sensor.

[0161] The fourth sensor is configured to detect whether the battery is located on the second conveyor. The fourth driver is configured to drive the second conveyor to convey the battery away from the unloading mechanism 5 in response to the fourth sensor detecting that the battery is located on the second conveyor.

[0162] Similar to the loading mechanism 1, the unloading mechanism 5 can also be provided with a fourth sensor to detect whether the battery is placed on the second conveyor. If the fourth sensor does not detect the battery, the second conveyor stops conveying; if the fourth sensor detects that the battery is on the second conveyor, the fourth driver drives the second conveyor to convey the battery.

[0163] The type, quantity and position of the fourth sensor can also be designed according to the applicable scenario. For example, a pressure sensor arranged on the bottom surface of the second conveyor can be used, or a photoelectric sensor arranged on the side wall of the second conveyor can be used, etc. The present disclosure does not limit this.

[0164] The battery is transferred according to the detection results of the sensor to reduce the idling of the equipment and reduce the risk of misoperation.

[0165] The present application embodiment provides a battery insulation film weakening method 1100, which is applied to the battery insulation film weakening device 10 described in the above embodiment. Fig.11 , the battery insulation film weakening method 1100 includes steps 1110 to 1170.

[0166] Step 1110, controlling the loading mechanism 1 to load the battery coated with the insulating film.

[0167] Step 1120 , controlling the transfer mechanism 4 to transfer the battery from the loading mechanism 1 to the weakening mechanism 2 .

[0168] Step 1130 , controlling the weakening mechanism 2 to project the laser beam to a target position on the insulating film of the battery to weaken the mechanical strength of the insulating film at the target position.

[0169] Step 1140 , controlling the transport mechanism 4 to transport the battery from the weakening mechanism 2 to the detection mechanism 3 .

[0170] Step 1150 , controlling the detection mechanism 3 to detect the weakened mass of the insulating film of the battery at the target position.

[0171] Step 1160 , controlling the transfer mechanism 4 to transfer the battery from the detection mechanism 3 to the unloading mechanism 5 .

[0172] Step 1170, control the unloading mechanism 5 to unload the batteries.

[0173] After the battery coated with the insulating film is placed on the loading mechanism 1, the loading mechanism 1 is controlled to transfer the battery downstream along the direction of the weakening process line. Then the transfer mechanism 4 is controlled to transfer the battery to the weakening mechanism 2. After the battery is transferred to the weakening mechanism 2, the weakening mechanism 2 is controlled to project the laser beam to the target position of the insulating film, thereby weakening the mechanical strength of the insulating film at this position. After the weakening mechanism 2 finishes weakening the insulating film, the transfer mechanism 4 is controlled to transfer the battery to the detection mechanism 3. After the detection mechanism 3 detects the weakening quality at the target position of the insulating film, the transfer mechanism 4 is controlled to transfer the battery to the unloading mechanism 5. The unloading mechanism 5 transfers the battery downstream along the direction of the weakening process line so that the battery leaves the weakening process line.

[0174] After the battery coated with the insulating film is loaded, it is transported, and the insulating film is weakened and tested in sequence, and finally unloaded, realizing an automated process for weakening the battery insulating film, reducing labor costs and improving production efficiency.

[0175] According to some embodiments of the present application, the transfer mechanism 4 includes a first material picking jaw assembly 41-A, a second material picking jaw assembly 41-B and a third material picking jaw assembly 41-C. The first material picking jaw assembly 41-A, the second material picking jaw assembly 41-B and the third material picking jaw assembly 41-C are spaced apart from each other along the weakening process line and are controlled to synchronously perform the following actions:

[0176] The first material-retrieving jaw assembly 41-A transfers the battery located at the loading mechanism 1 to the weakening mechanism 2;

[0177] The second material-retrieving jaw assembly 41 -B transfers the battery located at the weakening mechanism 2 to the detection mechanism 3;

[0178] The third material picking jaw assembly 41 -C transfers the battery located at the detection mechanism 3 to the unloading mechanism 5 .

[0179] In order to further improve production efficiency, the three material-taking claw assemblies of the transfer mechanism 4 can be controlled to transfer the batteries located at the feeding mechanism 1 , the batteries located at the weakening mechanism 2 , and the batteries located at the detection mechanism 3 respectively.

[0180] Three synchronously acting material picking claw assemblies are used to transfer three batteries at the same time, so that the weakening process line can weaken the insulating films of multiple batteries at the same time, saving the time required for production and improving production efficiency.

[0181] According to some embodiments of the present application, the transfer mechanism 4 further includes a base 44, a bracket 43 and a support plate 42. The bracket 43 is fixedly connected to the base 44 and extends along the weakening process line. The support plate 42 is movably connected to the bracket 43. The first material picking jaw assembly 41-A, the second material picking jaw assembly 41-B and the third material picking jaw assembly 41-C are mounted on the support plate 42 to move synchronously with the support plate 42 along the weakening process line.

[0182] refer to Fig.12 , the transfer mechanism 4 is controlled to synchronously execute process 1200. Process 1200 includes steps 1210 to 1240.

[0183] Step 1210, control the first material picking jaw assembly 41-A, the second material picking jaw assembly 41-B and the third material picking jaw assembly 41-C to respectively clamp the battery located at the loading mechanism 1, the battery located at the weakening mechanism 2 and the battery located at the detection mechanism 3.

[0184] Step 1220 , controlling the support plate 42 to move along the weakening process line from the starting position to the ending position.

[0185] Step 1230, control the first material picking jaw assembly 41-A, the second material picking jaw assembly 41-B and the third material picking jaw assembly 41-C to release the battery located at the loading mechanism 1 to the weakening mechanism 2, release the battery located at the weakening mechanism 2 to the detection mechanism 3 and release the battery located at the detection mechanism 3 to the unloading mechanism 5 respectively.

[0186] Step 1240 , controlling the support plate 42 to retreat from the end position to the start position along the weakening process line.

[0187] In some embodiments, the starting position of the support plate 42 can be set so that the first material picking jaw assembly 41-A, the second material picking jaw assembly 41-B and the third material picking jaw assembly 41-C are respectively located above the battery placement location of the loading mechanism 1, above the battery placement location of the weakening mechanism 2, and above the battery placement location of the detection mechanism 3, and the ending position can be set so that the first material picking jaw assembly 41-A, the second material picking jaw assembly 41-B and the third material picking jaw assembly 41-C are respectively located above the battery placement location of the weakening mechanism 2, above the battery placement location of the detection mechanism 3, and above the battery placement location of the unloading mechanism 5.

[0188] When the support plate 42 is at the starting position, the first material picking jaw assembly 41-A, the second material picking jaw assembly 41-B and the third material picking jaw assembly 41-C can respectively pick up the battery at the loading mechanism 1, the battery at the weakening mechanism 2 and the battery at the detection mechanism 3. After the picking is completed, the support plate 42 drives the three material picking jaw assemblies and the three batteries to move to the end position, and the first material picking jaw assembly 41-A, the second material picking jaw assembly 41-B and the third material picking jaw assembly 41-C can release the clamped batteries to the weakening mechanism 2, the detection mechanism 3 and the unloading mechanism 5 respectively. After the release, the support plate 42 drives the three material picking jaw assemblies back to the starting position to wait for the subsequent batteries on the weakening process line to be transferred.

[0189] The movement of the support plate drives the synchronous movement of the material picking jaw assembly on the weakening process line. At the same time, the three material picking jaw assemblies synchronously clamp and release the battery, which simplifies the structure of the battery insulation film weakening equipment, improves the reliability of the equipment, and improves production efficiency.

[0190] A specific embodiment of the present application is described below. It should be understood that this specific embodiment is described for illustrative purposes only and should not be interpreted as limiting the present application.

[0191] like Figure 1 As shown, the battery insulating film weakening device 10 includes a loading mechanism 1, a weakening mechanism 2, a detection mechanism 3, a transfer mechanism 4 and a unloading mechanism 5.

[0192] like Figure 8 As shown, the feeding mechanism 1 includes a first conveyor 101, a third driver 103, a first limit block 104, a third sensor 102 and a feeding mechanism bracket 105. The first conveyor 101 is arranged on the feeding mechanism bracket 105. The third sensor 102 is arranged on the side wall of the first conveyor 101. When the third sensor 102 detects that the battery is located on the first conveyor 101, the third driver 103 drives the first conveyor 101 to convey the battery. When the battery is conveyed to the contact with the first limit block 104, it will be blocked by the first limit block 104 and restricted to a predetermined material picking position. The transfer mechanism 4 can clamp the battery at the material picking position and transfer it to the weakening mechanism 2.

[0193] like Figures 3 to 6As shown, the weakening mechanism 2 includes a first positioning component 22, a laser component 23, a position adjustment component 24, a position calibration component 25, a dust collector component 26 and a weakening mechanism base 21. The first positioning component 22 and the dust collector component 26 are installed on the weakening mechanism base 21. Before weakening a batch of batteries of the same size, adjust the first adjustment handle 241 and the second adjustment handle 244 to determine the position of the laser component 23 in the direction perpendicular to the laser beam and in the vertical direction. After the battery is transported to the first workbench 222 of the first positioning component 22, the first sensor 223 detects that the battery is located on the first workbench 222, and the first clamp 221 clamps the battery to position the battery at the first predetermined position. The first driver 255 in the position calibration component 25 drives the guide block 253 to move along the first guide member 252 to calibrate the position of the laser component 23 in the direction of the laser beam to achieve focusing on the target position of the battery insulation film. After focusing, the laser assembly 23 projects a laser beam to the target position of the insulating film to weaken the mechanical strength of the insulating film at the target position. The second driver 263 drives the dust collecting box 261 to move toward the battery along the second guide 262 to extract the smoke generated during the weakening process.

[0194] After the weakening of the target position is completed, the transfer mechanism 4 clamps the battery and transfers it to the detection mechanism 3. Figure 7 As shown, the detection mechanism 3 includes a second positioning component 33, a visual detector 32 and a detection mechanism base 31. The second positioning component 33 is arranged on the detection mechanism base 31. After the battery is transferred to the second workbench 332 of the second positioning component 33, the second sensor detects that the battery is located on the second workbench 332, and the second clamp 331 clamps the battery to position the battery at the second predetermined position. The visual detector 32 picks up the image of the insulating film at the target position and detects the weakened quality at the target position.

[0195] After the weakening quality detection at the target position is completed, the transfer mechanism 4 clamps the battery and transfers it to the second conveyor of the unloading mechanism 5. When the fourth sensor detects that the battery is on the second conveyor, the fourth driver drives the second conveyor to transfer the battery so that the battery leaves the weakening process line.

[0196] like Figure 2 As shown, the transfer mechanism 4 includes a first material picking jaw assembly 41-A, a second material picking jaw assembly 41-B and a third material picking jaw assembly 41-C. The first material picking jaw assembly 41-A, the second material picking jaw assembly 41-B and the third material picking jaw assembly 41-C are installed on a support plate 42, and the spacing between them is equal, and is equal to the distance between the battery placement locations on the feeding mechanism 1, the weakening mechanism 2, the detection mechanism 3, and the unloading mechanism 5.

[0197] At a certain moment in the weakening process, there may be multiple batteries on the weakening process line. One possible situation includes: the first battery is located at the loading mechanism 1, the second battery is located at the weakening mechanism 2, and the third battery is located at the detection mechanism 3. The support plate 42 drives the first material picking jaw assembly 41-A, the second material picking jaw assembly 41-B and the third material picking jaw assembly 41-C to move to the starting position. After the first battery is blocked at the predetermined material picking position by the first limit block 104, the weakening process at the target position of the second battery insulation film is completed, and the weakening quality detection at the target position of the third battery insulation film is completed, the first material picking jaw assembly 41-A, the second material picking jaw assembly 41-B and the third material picking jaw assembly 41-C respectively clamp the first battery, the second battery and the third battery. After that, the support plate 42 drives the first material picking jaw assembly 41-A, the second material picking jaw assembly 41-B and the third material picking jaw assembly 41-C and the first battery, the second battery and the third battery to move to the end position. The first material picking jaw assembly 41-A releases the first battery to the weakening mechanism 2, the second material picking jaw assembly 41-B releases the second battery to the detection mechanism 3, and the third material picking jaw assembly 41-C releases the third battery to the unloading mechanism 5. Afterwards, the support plate 42 drives the first material picking jaw assembly 41-A, the second material picking jaw assembly 41-B and the third material picking jaw assembly 41-C to retreat to the starting position.

[0198] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present application, rather than to limit them; although the present application has been described in detail with reference to the aforementioned embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that they can still modify the technical solutions described in the aforementioned embodiments, or replace some or all of the technical features therein by equivalents; and these modifications or replacements do not make the essence of the corresponding technical solutions deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application, and they should all be included in the scope of the claims and specification of the present application. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the various technical features mentioned in the various embodiments can be combined in any way. The present application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions that fall within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A battery insulating film weakening device (10), characterized in that: include: A loading mechanism (1) is configured to load batteries coated with an insulating film; A weakening mechanism (2), located downstream of the feeding mechanism (1) on the weakening process line, is configured to project a laser beam onto a target position on the insulating film of the battery transferred from the feeding mechanism (1) to weaken the mechanical strength of the insulating film at the target position, wherein the weakening mechanism (2) comprises: A first positioning assembly (22) is configured to position the battery transferred from the loading mechanism (1) at a first predetermined position, the first positioning assembly (22) comprising: A first workbench (222) is configured to carry the battery transferred from the loading mechanism (1), and the first workbench (222) includes a clamping cylinder (2224); a first sensor (223), disposed on the surface of the first workbench (222), configured to detect whether the battery is located on the first workbench (222); and a first clamp (221) movably connected to the first workbench (222) and driven by the clamping cylinder (2224), configured to clamp the battery and position the battery at the first predetermined position in response to the first sensor (223) detecting that the battery is located on the first workbench (222); a laser assembly (23) configured to project the laser beam toward the target location of the battery; and A dust collector assembly (26) is configured to absorb smoke and dust generated when the laser assembly (23) projects the laser beam onto the insulating film of the battery, and the dust collector assembly (26) comprises: A second guide member (262) is disposed between the laser assembly (23) and the first positioning assembly (22) and extends along a direction in which the laser assembly (23) projects the laser beam; A dust collecting box (261) is movably connected to the second guide member (262) and is configured to collect and discharge the smoke; a dust collection pipe (264), which is in communication with the dust collection box (261) and is configured to form a channel for discharging the smoke; and A second driver (263) is drivingly connected to the dust collection box (261) and is configured to drive the dust collection box (261) to move along the second guide member (262) to adjust the distance between the dust collection box (261) and the first positioning assembly (22); A detection mechanism (3), located downstream of the weakening mechanism (2) on the weakening process line, is configured to detect the weakening quality of the insulating film of the battery transferred from the weakening mechanism (2) at the target position, wherein the weakening quality indicates the degree of weakening of the mechanical strength of the target position on the insulating film after being ablated by the laser beam; a material unloading mechanism (5), located downstream of the detection mechanism (3) on the weakening process line, and configured to unload the battery transferred from the detection mechanism (3); and The transfer mechanism (4) is configured to transfer the battery from the loading mechanism (1) to the weakening mechanism (2), the detection mechanism (3) and the unloading mechanism (5) in sequence. The transfer mechanism (4) comprises a first material picking jaw assembly (41-A), a second material picking jaw assembly (41-B) and a third material picking jaw assembly (41-C). The first material picking jaw assembly (41-A), the second material picking jaw assembly (41-B) and the third material picking jaw assembly (41-C) are spaced apart from each other along the weakening process line and are configured to act synchronously so that the first material picking jaw assembly (41-A) transfers the battery located at the loading mechanism (1) to the weakening mechanism (2), the second material picking jaw assembly (41-B) transfers the battery located at the weakening mechanism (2) to the detection mechanism (3), and the third material picking jaw assembly (41-C) transfers the battery located at the detection mechanism (3) to the unloading mechanism (5).

2. The battery insulating film weakening device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The transfer mechanism (4) also includes a base (44), a bracket (43) and a support plate (42), wherein the bracket (43) is fixedly connected to the base (44) and extends along the weakening process line, and the support plate (42) is movably connected to the bracket (43), and the first material picking jaw assembly (41-A), the second material picking jaw assembly (41-B) and the third material picking jaw assembly (41-C) are installed on the support plate (42) to follow the support plate (42) and move synchronously along the weakening process line.

3. The battery insulating film weakening device (10) according to claim 2, characterized in that: The first material picking jaw assembly (41-A), the second material picking jaw assembly (41-B) and the third material picking jaw assembly (41-C) are arranged equidistantly on the support plate (42) along the weakening process line.

4. The battery insulating film weakening device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The weakening mechanism (2) further comprises: A position calibration component (25) is configured to calibrate the position of the laser component (23) so that the laser component (23) is focused on the target position of the insulating film of the battery positioned at the first predetermined position.

5. The battery insulating film weakening device (10) according to claim 4, characterized in that: The position calibration component (25) comprises: A first guide member (252) is arranged to extend along a direction in which the laser assembly (23) projects the laser beam; a guide block (253) fixedly connected to the laser assembly (23) and movably connected to the first guide member (252), wherein the guide block (253) is configured to drive the laser assembly (23) to move along the first guide member (252); and The first driver (255) is drivingly connected to the guide block (253) and is configured to drive the guide block (253) to move along the first guide member (252) to calibrate the position of the laser assembly (23).

6. The battery insulating film weakening device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The detection mechanism (3) comprises: A second positioning assembly (33) configured to position the battery transferred from the weakening mechanism (2) at a second predetermined position; and A visual detector (32) is configured to pick up an image of the insulating film of the battery at the target position and detect a weakened quality of the insulating film at the target position based on the image.

7. The battery insulating film weakening device (10) according to claim 6, characterized in that: The second positioning component (33) comprises: a second workbench (332) configured to carry the battery transferred from the weakening mechanism (2); a second sensor configured to detect whether the battery is located on the second workbench (332); and The second clamp (331) is movably connected to the second workbench (332) and is configured to clamp the battery and position the battery at the second predetermined position in response to the second sensor detecting that the battery is located on the second workbench (332).

8. The battery insulating film weakening device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The feeding mechanism (1) comprises: a first conveyor (101) configured to carry and convey the battery; a third driver (103), drivingly connected to the first conveyor (101), and configured to drive the first conveyor (101) to convey the battery; and A first stop block (104) is arranged in the conveying direction of the first conveyor (101) and is configured to block the battery conveyed by the first conveyor (101) at a predetermined material taking position so as to be transferred by the transfer mechanism (4) to the weakening mechanism (2).

9. The battery insulating film weakening device (10) according to claim 8, characterized in that: The feeding mechanism (1) further comprises: a third sensor (102) configured to detect whether the battery is located on the first conveyor (101), The third driver (103) is configured to drive the first conveyor (101) to convey the battery in response to the third sensor (102) detecting that the battery is located on the first conveyor (101).

10. The battery insulating film weakening device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The unloading mechanism (5) comprises: a second conveyor configured to carry and convey the battery transferred from the testing mechanism (3); A fourth driver is connected to the second conveyor by driving force, and is configured to drive the second conveyor to convey the battery away from the unloading mechanism (5).

11. The battery insulating film weakening device (10) according to claim 10, characterized in that: The unloading mechanism (5) further comprises: a fourth sensor configured to detect whether the battery is located on the second conveyor, The fourth driver is configured to drive the second conveyor to convey the battery away from the unloading mechanism (5) in response to the fourth sensor detecting that the battery is located on the second conveyor.

12. A battery insulating film weakening method (1100), applied to the battery insulating film weakening device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that: include: Controlling the feeding mechanism (1) to feed the battery coated with the insulating film; Controlling the transfer mechanism (4) to transfer the battery from the loading mechanism (1) to the weakening mechanism (2); Controlling the weakening mechanism (2) to project a laser beam to a target position on the insulating film of the battery to weaken the mechanical strength of the insulating film at the target position, comprising: Controlling the first positioning component (22) to position the battery transferred from the loading mechanism (1) at the first predetermined position comprises: controlling the first sensor (223) to detect whether the battery is located on the first workbench (222); and In response to the first sensor (223) detecting that the battery is located on the first workbench (222), controlling the clamping cylinder (2224) to drive the first clamp (221) to clamp the battery and position the battery at the first predetermined position; and controlling the laser assembly (23) to project the laser beam toward the target position of the battery; Controlling the transport mechanism (4) to transport the battery from the weakening mechanism (2) to the detection mechanism (3); Controlling the detection mechanism (3) to detect the weakened mass of the insulating film of the battery at the target position; Controlling the transfer mechanism (4) to transfer the battery from the detection mechanism (3) to the unloading mechanism (5); and The unloading mechanism (5) is controlled to unload the battery, wherein: The transfer mechanism (4) comprises a first material picking jaw assembly (41-A), a second material picking jaw assembly (41-B) and a third material picking jaw assembly (41-C), wherein the first material picking jaw assembly (41-A), the second material picking jaw assembly (41-B) and the third material picking jaw assembly (41-C) are spaced apart from each other along the weakening process line and are controlled to synchronously perform the following actions: The first material-retrieving clamping claw assembly (41-A) transfers the battery located at the loading mechanism (1) to the weakening mechanism (2); The second material picking jaw assembly (41-B) transfers the battery located at the weakening mechanism (2) to the detection mechanism (3); and The third material-retrieving clamping claw assembly (41-C) transfers the battery located at the detection mechanism (3) to the unloading mechanism (5).

13. The battery insulation film weakening method (1100) according to claim 12, characterized in that: The transfer mechanism (4) further comprises a base (44), a bracket (43) and a support plate (42); the bracket (43) is fixedly connected to the base (44) and extends along the weakening process line; the support plate (42) is movably connected to the bracket (43); the first material picking jaw assembly (41-A), the second material picking jaw assembly (41-B) and the third material picking jaw assembly (41-C) are mounted on the support plate (42) to move synchronously with the support plate (42) along the weakening process line; The transfer mechanism (4) is controlled to synchronously perform the actions through the following steps: Controlling the first material picking jaw assembly (41-A), the second material picking jaw assembly (41-B) and the third material picking jaw assembly (41-C) to respectively pick up the battery located at the feeding mechanism (1), the battery located at the weakening mechanism (2) and the battery located at the detection mechanism (3); Controlling the support plate (42) to move along the weakening process line from a starting position to an ending position; Controlling the first material picking jaw assembly (41-A), the second material picking jaw assembly (41-B) and the third material picking jaw assembly (41-C) to respectively release the battery located at the loading mechanism (1) to the weakening mechanism (2), release the battery located at the weakening mechanism (2) to the detection mechanism (3) and release the battery located at the detection mechanism (3) to the unloading mechanism (5); and The support plate (42) is controlled to retreat from the end position to the start position along the weakening process line.

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