Folding device and folding method

Abstract

The folding device according to an embodiment of the present invention can fold a platform of a pouch cell. The folding device may include: a pair of gripping members facing each other, the platform being located between the pair of gripping members; and the folding mechanism is arranged outside the pair of clamping parts so as to fold the platform. Each of the gripping members may include: a body that rotates about an axis of rotation parallel to the platform; a first protrusion protruding from one side portion of the main body and sandwiching the platform; and a second protrusion protruding from the other side portion of the main body, in which the second protrusion grips an inner portion of the platform other than the portion gripped by the first protrusion due to rotation of the main body.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2022-0098868, filed on August 8, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for folding a terrace of a pouch-type battery housing. Background Art

[0004] Recently, secondary batteries have attracted attention as power sources for electric vehicles (EV), hybrid electric vehicles (HEV), etc., which are proposed as solutions to air pollution problems such as those caused by existing gasoline vehicles, diesel vehicles, etc. using fossil fuels.

[0005] While small mobile devices use one or a few secondary batteries, medium and large devices such as electric vehicles require high output and large capacity, and thus use a battery module in which a plurality of secondary batteries are electrically connected to each other or a battery pack in which a plurality of battery modules are electrically connected to each other.

[0006] It can be said that one of the secondary batteries that has received the most attention among the currently commercialized secondary batteries is the lithium secondary battery. According to the shape of the external material, lithium secondary batteries can be classified into can type, prismatic type, pouch type, etc. Among these batteries, pouch type secondary batteries are widely used in medium and large battery modules due to their high energy density and easy stacking.

[0007] The pouch-type battery cell has a structure in which the electrode assembly is accommodated in the pouch-type battery housing and the platform of the battery housing is sealed. The platform without the electrode lead protruding outward is folded at least once, and the execution of this process improves the energy density per unit volume of the battery cell and improves the sealing. As an example, the sealed platform can be folded twice in this process, which is generally referred to as double-side folding (DSF).

[0008] According to the prior art, when the battery cell moves along the production line, the platform is folded through multiple processes performed at different positions. Therefore, the battery cell needs to be aligned in each of the multiple processes, so there are problems such as damage to the battery cell due to the alignment operation, reduced folding consistency of the platform, and complex production lines. Summary of the invention

[0009] Technical issues

[0010] An object of the present invention to solve the above-mentioned problems is to provide a folding device and a folding method which can fold a platform multiple times in a state where pouch-type battery cells are aligned once.

[0011] Technical Solution

[0012] A folding device according to an embodiment of the present invention can fold the platform of a pouch-type battery cell. The folding device may include: a pair of clamping parts facing each other, the platform being located between the pair of clamping parts; and a folding mechanism, the folding mechanism being arranged outside the pair of clamping parts to fold the platform. Each of the clamping parts may include: a main body, the main body rotating around a rotation axis parallel to the platform; a first protrusion, the first protrusion protruding from one side of the main body and clamping the platform; and a second protrusion, the second protrusion protruding from the other side of the main body, wherein, due to the rotation of the main body, the second protrusion clamps the inner part of the platform except the part clamped by the first protrusion.

[0013] The first protrusion may include an inclined surface disposed to be inclined with respect to the platform and to be in contact with the platform.

[0014] The respective inclined surfaces of the pair of clamping members may be arranged parallel to each other.

[0015] An area where the inclined surface contacts the platform may be larger than an area where the second protrusion contacts the platform.

[0016] The clamping member may be arranged to be movable so that the distance between the rotation axis and the platform varies.

[0017] At least one of the pair of clamping members may heat the platform.

[0018] The folding mechanism may include: a first body, the first body moves so that when the first protrusion of the clamping member clamps the platform, the platform is folded toward the first protrusion; and a second body, the second body moves so that when the pair of clamping members move away from the platform, the platform is further folded toward the first body.

[0019] When the first body and the second body are away from the platform, the clamping member may rotate so that the second protrusion clamps the platform.

[0020] When the second protrusion of the clamping member clamps the platform, the first body may additionally fold the platform while moving.

[0021] Each of the first body and the second body may be disposed to be biaxially movable in a first direction and a second direction, the first direction being parallel to a thickness direction of the battery cell and the second direction being perpendicular to the first direction.

[0022] At least one of the first body or the second body may heat the platform.

[0023] The folding method according to an embodiment of the present invention can fold the platform of the pouch battery unit. The folding method may include: clamping the platform at both sides by corresponding first protrusions of a pair of clamping parts; folding the platform by a first body disposed outside the pair of clamping parts; allowing the pair of clamping parts to be away from the platform; and moving a second body to face the first body, the platform being located between the first body and the second body, so as to further fold the platform by the second body.

[0024] The area of ​​the platform clamped by each of the first protrusions may be clamped to be inclined along the inclined surface of the first protrusion.

[0025] When the platform is folded by the first body, the platform may be folded toward an outer surface of the first protrusion of one of the pair of clamping members in a direction opposite to the inclined surface.

[0026] When the platform is further folded by the second body, the platform may be folded to overlap between the first body and the second body.

[0027] The folding method may also include: separating the first body and the second body from the platform; rotating the pair of clamping parts so that the corresponding second protrusions of the pair of clamping parts clamp the inner part of the platform except the part clamped by the first protrusion; and further folding the platform through the first body.

[0028] When the platform is additionally folded by the first body, the platform may be folded toward an outer surface of the second protrusion of one of the pair of clamping members.

[0029] Beneficial Effects

[0030] According to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the platform can be folded multiple times in a state where the battery cells are aligned once. Therefore, unlike the prior art, the battery cells can be prevented from being damaged due to multiple alignment operations.

[0031] Since the damage to the battery cell is minimized, the burrs on the appearance and the damage to the insulation resistance can be minimized.

[0032] Furthermore, the folding consistency of the platform can be improved and the folding deviation between products can be minimized.

[0033] Furthermore, production line configuration and control of battery cells can be simplified.

[0034] Furthermore, effects that can be easily predicted by a person of ordinary skill in the art from the configuration according to the preferred embodiments of the present invention can be included. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate preferred embodiments of the present invention and are used to further understand the technical spirit of the present invention and the specific implementation methods of the present invention. The present invention should not be interpreted as being limited to the drawings.

[0036] Figure 1 It is an assembly diagram of a pouch battery cell.

[0037] Figure 2 is a plan view of a pouch battery cell.

[0038] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a folding device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figures 4 to 8 2 are schematic diagrams sequentially illustrating the operation of the folding device according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Fig. 9 is a flow chart of a folding method according to another embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] Hereinafter, the preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present invention. However, the present invention can be implemented in different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein.

[0042] In order to clearly describe the present invention, parts irrelevant to the description or detailed description of related well-known technologies that may unnecessarily obscure the subject matter of the present invention will be excluded. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals denote the same elements.

[0043] Furthermore, the terms or words used in the specification and claims should not be restrictively interpreted as ordinary meanings or dictionary-based meanings, but should be interpreted as meanings and concepts consistent with the scope of the present invention based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concepts of the terms to best describe and explain his or her invention.

[0044] Figure 1 It is an assembly diagram of a pouch battery cell. Figure 2 is a plan view of a pouch battery cell.

[0045] The pouch-type battery cell 1 (hereinafter referred to as a “battery cell”) may include an electrode assembly 10 and a pouch-type battery case 20 (hereinafter referred to as a “pouch”).

[0046] The electrode assembly 10 may be provided by alternately stacking positive electrodes and negative electrodes with a separator between the positive electrodes and the negative electrodes. That is, the electrode assembly 10 may include a plurality of electrodes and a separator inserted between the plurality of electrodes to isolate the plurality of electrodes from each other. The electrode assembly 10 may be housed in a bag 20 together with an electrolyte, and more specifically, in a pair of cup-shaped portions 22 described later.

[0047] The electrode assembly 10 may include a stack type, a jelly roll type, a stack / fold type, etc., and the type thereof is not limited.

[0048] The electrode assembly 10 may include an electrode tab 11. The electrode tab 11 may be connected to each of the positive electrode and the negative electrode of the electrode assembly 10 and protrude from the electrode assembly 10 to the outside to serve as a path for electrons to move between the inside and the outside of the electrode assembly 10.

[0049] The electrode tab 11 may be provided by cutting a non-coated portion of the electrode current collector, or may be provided by connecting a separate conductive member to the non-coated portion by ultrasonic welding or the like.

[0050] The electrode tab 11 may include a positive tab 11a connected to the positive electrode and a negative tab 11b connected to the negative electrode. The positive tab 11a and the negative tab 11b may protrude in different directions of the electrode tab 11, but the embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto. For example, the positive tab 11a and the negative tab 11b may protrude in various directions, such as protruding from one side in the same direction to be parallel to each other.

[0051] The electrode lead 12 that supplies power to the outside of the secondary battery 1 may be connected to the electrode tab 11 of the electrode assembly 10 by spot welding or the like. The electrode lead 12 may have a portion surrounded by an insulating portion 14. The insulating portion 14 may be configured to be limited to a platform 24 or 25, and the first outer shell 21 and the second outer shell 22 of the bag 20 are thermally fused to each other on the platform 24 or 25. Therefore, the insulating portion 14 may isolate the electrode lead 12 from the bag 20 and maintain the sealing of the bag 20. Generally, an insulating tape that is easily attached to the electrode lead 12 and has a relatively small thickness may be widely used as the insulating portion 14. However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto, and various components may be used as long as they can isolate the electrode lead 12.

[0052] The electrode lead 12 may have one end connected to the electrode tab 11 and the other end protruding outside the pouch 20. The electrode lead 12 may include a positive lead 12a connected to the positive tab 11a and a negative lead 12b connected to the negative tab 11b.

[0053] The electrode lead 12 may electrically connect the electrode assembly 10 to the outside. In addition, since the positive electrode tab 11a and the negative electrode tab 11b protrude in various directions, the positive electrode lead 12a and the negative electrode lead 12b may also extend in various directions.

[0054] The bag 20 may contain the electrode assembly 10 therein, and may be provided by molding a laminate. In more detail, when a laminate having flexibility is stretch-molded using a die, a punch, etc., a portion of the laminate may be stretched to provide a cup portion 23 having a bag-shaped accommodation space S1, thereby manufacturing the bag 20.

[0055] The pouch 20 may contain the electrode assembly 10 such that a portion of the electrode lead 12 is exposed, and then the pouch 20 is sealed. The pouch 20 may include a pair of outer cases 21 and 22, and in more detail, a first outer case 21 and a second outer case 22.

[0056] In the following, Figure 1 As shown, as an example, a case where one side of the first housing 21 is connected to one side of the second housing 22 is described. However, the embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto, and the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 may also be separated from each other and manufactured separately.

[0057] The cup portion 23 may be provided in at least one of the first case 21 or the second case 22 to provide an accommodation space S1 capable of accommodating the electrode assembly 10. The cup portion 23 may have a concave shape. The cup portion 23 may include a bottom surface 23a and a circumferential surface 23b.

[0058] like Figure 1 As shown, the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 may be connected to each other by a bridge 26. The bridge 26 may be disposed between a pair of cup-shaped portions 23. The bridge 26 may extend parallel to the full length direction or the full width direction of the electrode assembly 10. However, the embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto, and the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 may be disposed to be separated from each other.

[0059] Each of the shells 21 and 22 may include platforms 24 and 25 disposed on the outer circumference of the cup-shaped portion 23. In more detail, the platforms 24 and 25 may include a first platform 24 parallel to one of the full length and full width of the electrode assembly 10, and a second platform 25 parallel to the other of the full length and full width of the electrode assembly 10.

[0060] For example, the second platform 25 may be provided on a side opposite to the bridge 26 based on the cup portion 23 , and the first platform 24 may connect an end of the second platform 25 and an end of the bridge 26 to each other.

[0061] When the bridge 26 is folded, the platforms 24, 25 of the first housing 21 and the platforms 24, 25 of the second housing 22 may contact each other. Here, the insulating portion 14 of the electrode assembly 10 may be disposed between the platforms 24 or 25 of the pair of housings 21 and 22. For example, the insulating portion 14 may be disposed between the first platforms 24 of the pair of housings 21 and 22. The platforms 24, 25 of the first housing 21 and the platforms 24, 25 of the second housing 22 may be sealed to each other in a state of contacting each other.

[0062] The bag 20 may include a side folded portion 30 provided by folding one of the platforms 24 and 25. In more detail, one of the platforms 24 and 25, from which the electrode lead 12 protrudes outward, may be folded to provide the side folded portion 30.

[0063] For example, Figure 2 As shown, when the electrode lead 12 protrudes to the outside of the pouch 20 through the first platform 24, the second platform 25 may be folded to provide a side folded portion 30. That is, the side folded portion 30 may be provided on the side opposite to the bridge 26. When the first outer case 21 and the second outer case 22 are provided separately without being connected by the bridge 26, the side folded portion 30 may be provided on each of the two side portions of the battery cell 1.

[0064] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a folding device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] The folding device according to the embodiment of the present invention may be a device for providing the side folding portion 30. The folding device may fold one of the sealed platforms 24 and 25 of the battery cell 1 that does not have the electrode lead 12 protruding outward. For example, the folding device may fold the second platform 25. Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the platform is denoted by reference numeral "25".

[0066] The folding device may include clamping members 101 and 102 and folding mechanisms 121 and 122 .

[0067] The clamping members 101 and 102 may be arranged in pairs to face each other, with a portion of the platform 25 located therebetween. The platform 25 may pass between the clamping members 101 and 102 to protrude to the outside. The pair of clamping members 101 and 102 may include a first clamping member 101 disposed on one side of the platform 25 and a second clamping member 102 disposed on the other side of the platform 25.

[0068] Each of the clamping members 101 and 102 may be arranged to be rotatable about a rotation axis 110a. The rotation axis 110a may be parallel to the platform 25. As described above, since the platform 25 is parallel to the full length direction or full width direction of the battery cell 1, the rotation axis 110a may also be parallel to the full length direction or full width direction of the battery cell 1.

[0069] Each of the clamping members 101 and 102 may be arranged to be movable so that the distance between the rotation axis 110a and the platform 25 varies. As an example, each of the clamping members 101 and 102 may be parallel to the thickness direction ( Figure 3 The Y-axis direction in the image.

[0070] Each of the clamping members 101 and 102 may include a body 110 , a first protrusion 111 , and a second protrusion 112 .

[0071] The body 110 may rotate around the rotation axis 110a. The rotation axis 110a may extend to pass through the central portion of the body 110. The body 110 may extend parallel to the platform 25. In addition, the body 110 may extend in the thickness direction ( Figure 3 has a predetermined width in the Y-axis direction of the platform 25 and has a predetermined width in the protruding direction of the platform 25 ( Figure 3 It has a predetermined thickness in the X-axis direction).

[0072] The first protrusion 111 may protrude from one side of the body 110, and the second protrusion 112 may protrude from the other side of the body 110. For example, the first protrusion 111 may protrude toward the platform 25, and the second protrusion 112 may protrude toward a side opposite to the platform 25.

[0073] The first protrusion 111 can clamp the platform 25 (see Figure 4 ). In more detail, when the body 110 is in an initial state, the first protrusion 111 may clamp the platform 25. The initial state may refer to a state before the body 110 is rotated.

[0074] The platform 25 may be clamped between the first protrusion 111 of the first clamping member 101 and the first protrusion 111 of the second clamping member 102 .

[0075] The first protrusion 111 may be arranged to be inclined relative to the platform 25 and include an inclined surface 111a contacting the platform 25. The corresponding inclined surfaces 111a of the first protrusions 111 of the pair of clamping members 101 and 102 may be arranged to be parallel to each other. That is, the corresponding first protrusions 111 of the pair of clamping members 101 and 102 may have an asymmetric shape. Therefore, a portion of the platform 25 may be folded and clamped to be inclined between the pair of inclined surfaces 111a.

[0076] The second protrusion 112 can clamp the inner portion of the platform 25 except the portion clamped by the first protrusion 111 (see Figure 7 In more detail, when the body 110 is in the rotation state, the second protrusion 112 may clamp the inner portion of the platform 25 except for the portion already clamped by the first protrusion 111. The platform 25 may be clamped between the second protrusion 112 of the first clamping member 101 and the second protrusion 112 of the second clamping member 102.

[0077] The area where the inclined surface 111 a of the first protrusion 111 contacts the stage 25 may be greater than the area where the second protrusion 112 contacts the stage 25 .

[0078] The folding mechanisms 121 and 122 may be provided outside the pair of clamping members 101 and 102 to fold the platform 25. The folding mechanisms 121 and 122 may fold the outer portion of the platform 25 protruding outside the pair of clamping members 101 and 102.

[0079] In more detail, the folding mechanisms 121 and 122 may include a first body 121 and a second body 122. Each of the first body 121 and the second body 122 may have an approximately block shape.

[0080] The first body 121 may be disposed outside the first clamping member 101 , and the second body 122 may be disposed outside the second clamping member 122 .

[0081] The first body 121 and the second body 122 may be respectively disposed on both sides of the platform 25. In more detail, the first body 121 may be disposed on one side of the platform 25 or a virtual boundary extending from the platform 25, and the second body 122 may be disposed on the other side of the platform 25.

[0082] Each of the first body 121 and the second body 122 may be configured to be biaxially movable in a first direction and a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. For example, the first direction may be parallel to the thickness direction of the battery cell 1 ( Figure 3 The second direction may be parallel to the protruding direction of the platform 25 ( Figure 3 in the X-axis direction).

[0083] Hereinafter, respective operations of the first body 121 and the second body 122 will be described in detail.

[0084] At least one of the first clamping member 101, the second clamping member 102, the first body 121 or the second body 122 can heat the platform 25. Preferably, at least one of the pair of clamping members 101 and 102 can heat the platform 25. At least one of the first body 121 or the second body 122 can also heat the platform 25.

[0085] In more detail, during folding of the platform 25, at least one of the first clamping member 101, the second clamping member 102, the first body 121, or the second body 122 may be in contact with the platform 25 in a state heated to a high temperature. The high temperature is a temperature significantly higher than a room temperature, and represents a temperature that may affect the formability of the platform 25. Therefore, the platform 25 may be easily folded, and the folded platform 25 may be minimized from being unfolded again.

[0086] Figures 4 to 8 2 are schematic diagrams sequentially illustrating the operation of the folding device according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0087] like Figure 4 As shown, the corresponding first protrusions 111 of the pair of clamping parts 101 and 102 can clamp the platform 25 on both sides. In more detail, the pair of clamping parts 101 and 102 can move so as to be close to each other. The pair of clamping parts 101 and 102 can move parallel to the thickness direction of the battery cell 1. Here, each of the pair of clamping parts 101 and 102 can be in an initial state before rotation.

[0088] Therefore, a portion of the platform 25 can be folded and clamped along the inclined surface 111a of each first protrusion 111. For ease of explanation, the portion of the platform 25 that contacts the inclined surface 111a can be referred to as the first region, the portion disposed outward from the first region can be referred to as the second region, and the portion disposed inward from the first region can be referred to as the third region. In this case, the second region and the third region can be set to have different heights in the thickness direction of the battery cell 1, and the first region can be set to be inclined and connect the second region to the third region.

[0089] However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and a modified example in which the first protrusion 111 does not include the inclined surface 111a may be provided. In this case, even if the platform 25 is clamped between the first protrusion 111 of the pair of clamping members 101 and 102, the platform 25 can remain flat without being folded.

[0090] like Figure 5 As shown, when the first protrusions 111 of the clamping members 101 and 102 clamp the platform 25 , the first body 121 may move to fold the platform 25 .

[0091] In more detail, in a state where the first area of ​​the platform 25 is clamped between the first protrusion 111 of a pair of clamping parts 101 and 102, the first body 121 can move in the thickness of the battery cell 1 and the second area of ​​the platform 25 protruding outward from the first protrusion 111 can be folded.

[0092] The first body 121 can move parallel to the thickness of the battery cell 1 so that the platform 25 is folded toward the first protrusion 111. The first body 121 can move from the outside of the first clamping part 101 to the outside of the second clamping part 102, and can push and fold the platform 25. When the first body 121 moves, the platform 25 can be folded along the inner surface of the first body 121.

[0093] The first body 121 may fold the platform 25 so that the platform 25 is inclined in a direction opposite to the inclination of the inclined surface 111a of the first protrusion 111. For example, the first area of ​​the platform 25 may be arranged to be inclined downward toward the outside along the inclined surface 111a, and the first body 121 may fold the second area of ​​the platform 25 so that the second area is inclined upward toward the outside.

[0094] Therefore, the platform 25 may be folded at the first angle. In more detail, the second area of ​​the platform 25 may be folded at the first angle (eg, 90 degrees) based on the initial position.

[0095] In more detail, the second region of the platform 25 protruding outward from the first protrusion 111 may be folded to have an acute angle with respect to the first region clamped by the first protrusion 111. In this case, a portion connecting the first and second regions of the platform 25 to each other may be formed as a first folded portion 25a.

[0096] That is, when the inclined surface 111a of the first protrusion 111 is set to be inclined, the first body 111 can fold the platform 25 so that the first folded portion 25a has an acute angle. Therefore, the first folded portion 25a can be folded more reliably and the rebound of the first folded portion 25a can be minimized.

[0097] like Figure 6 As shown, after the first body 121 folds the platform 25, a pair of clamping parts 101 and 102 can be away from the platform 25, and the first body 121 can be moved to a preset standby position. In more detail, the first body 121 can move so as to contact the first area of ​​the platform 25 at one side of the platform 25.

[0098] The pair of clamping members 101 and 102 can move away from each other. The pair of clamping members 101 and 102 can move in the thickness direction of the battery cell 1. In a state where the pair of clamping members 101 and 102 are sufficiently away from the platform 25, the second protrusion 112 can rotate to face the platform 25.

[0099] When the pair of clamping members 101 and 102 are away from the platform 25, the second body 122 can further fold the platform 25. In more detail, the second body 122 can further fold the platform 25 together with the first body 121.

[0100] The second body 122 can be moved to a position where the second body 122 faces the first body 121, with the platform 25 located therebetween. The second body 122 can be moved from the outside to the inside. In more detail, the second body 122 can be moved in a direction opposite to the protruding direction of the platform 25 (e.g., a direction opposite to the X-axis) while folding the platform 25.

[0101] The platform 25 may be pressed and folded between the second body 122 and the first body 121. In more detail, the second body 122 may fold the second region of the platform 25 such that the second region overlaps the first region.

[0102] Therefore, the platform 25 may be further folded at a second angle (eg, 180 degrees) greater than the first angle. That is, the first folded portion 25a of the platform 25 may be further folded.

[0103] In more detail, the second area of ​​the platform 25 may be folded at a second angle (eg, 180 degrees) based on the initial position. Preferably, the platform 25 may be folded such that the second area overlaps the first area.

[0104] like Figure 7 As shown, when the first body 121 and the second body 122 are away from the platform 25 , the clamping members 101 and 102 rotate so that the second protrusion 112 clamps the platform 25 .

[0105] In more detail, the first body 121 and the second body 122 can move away from the platform 25, and the corresponding second protrusions 112 of the pair of clamping parts 101 and 102 can clamp the platform 25 on both sides. The pair of clamping parts 101 and 102 can move in a rotating state so as to approach each other. The pair of clamping parts 101 and 102 can move parallel to the thickness direction of the battery cell 1.

[0106] The second protrusions 112 of the pair of clamping members 101 and 102 may clamp the platform 25 , and in more detail, clamp the third region of the platform 25 at both sides.

[0107] like Figure 8 As shown, when the second protrusions 112 of the clamping members 101 and 102 clamp the platform 25 , the first body 121 may additionally fold the platform 25 while moving.

[0108] More specifically, after the second protrusion 112 clamps the platform 25, the first body 121 that has been away from the platform 25 can move to a preset folding position. The first body 121 can move to the outside of the first clamping member 101, more specifically, to the outside of the second protrusion 112 of the first clamping member 101.

[0109] Thereafter, the first body 121 may further fold the already overlapped and folded platform 25 while moving in the thickness direction of the battery cell 1 .

[0110] The first body 121 may move from the outside of the second protrusion 112 of the first clamping member 101 to the outside of the second protrusion 112 of the second clamping member 102. When the first body 121 moves, the platform 25 protruding outward from the second protrusion 112 may be folded along the inner surface of the first body 121. When the first body 121 moves, the platform 25 protruding outward from the second protrusion 112 may be folded toward the outer surface of the second protrusion 112 of the second clamping member 102.

[0111] Therefore, when the platform 25 is additionally folded, a second folded portion 25b may be provided. The second folded portion 25b may connect a portion of the platform 25 clamped by the second protrusion 112 to a portion protruding outward from the second protrusion 112. The second folded portion 25b may be disposed inside the first folded portion 25a.

[0112] As mentioned above, through Figures 4 to 8 Through a series of operations shown, the platform 25 can be folded multiple times and molded into the side folded portion 30. The operations can be performed while maintaining a state where the battery cell 1 (more specifically, the cup-shaped portion 23 of the battery cell 1) is fixed by a fixing jig (not shown) or the like. That is, the folding device according to an embodiment of the present invention can fold the platform 25 multiple times in a state where the battery cell 1 is aligned once.

[0113] Therefore, unlike the related art, there are advantages in that the battery cell 1 can be prevented from being damaged due to multiple alignment operations, the folding consistency of the platform 25 can be improved, and the production line can be simplified.

[0114] Fig. 9 is a flow chart of a folding method according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0115] Hereinafter, a folding method using the above-mentioned folding device will be described as another embodiment of the present invention.

[0116] The folding method may include clamping the platform 25 on both sides by the corresponding first protrusions 111 of a pair of clamping parts 101 and 102 (S10) (hereinafter referred to as the "first clamping process"), folding the platform 25 by the first body 121 (S20) (hereinafter referred to as the "first folding process"), allowing a pair of clamping parts 101 and 102 to move away from the platform 25 (S30) (hereinafter referred to as the "first separation process"), moving the second body 122 to face the first body 121, with the platform 25 located therebetween, to further fold the platform 25 by the second body 122 (S40) (hereinafter referred to as the "second folding process").

[0117] In the first clamping process (S10), the corresponding first protrusions 111 of the pair of clamping members 101 and 102 can clamp the platform 25 of the aligned battery cell 1 on both sides. The area (i.e., the first area) of the platform 25 clamped by each first protrusion 111 can be clamped to be inclined along the inclined surface 111a of the first protrusion 111.

[0118] References Figure 4 The described contents apply to the first clamping process ( S10 ).

[0119] In the first folding process (S20), the platform 25 may be folded toward the outer surface of the first protrusion 111 of one of the pair of clamping members 101 and 102 in the direction opposite to the inclined surface 111a. In more detail, the first body 121 may be moved from the outside of the first protrusion 111 of the first clamping member 101 to the outside of the first protrusion 111 of the second clamping member 102. With the movement of the first body 121, the platform 25 may be folded toward the outer surface of the first protrusion 111 of the second clamping member 102. Therefore, the first folded portion 25a may be formed on the platform 25. When the platform 25 is folded in the direction opposite to the inclined surface 111a, the first folded portion 25a may have an acute angle.

[0120] References Figure 5 The described contents apply to the first folding process ( S20 ).

[0121] In the first separation process (S30), the pair of clamping members 101 and 102 may be away from the platform 25. Each of the clamping members 101 and 102 may be sufficiently away from the platform 25 and then rotated so that the second protrusion 112 faces the platform 25. Each of the clamping members 101 and 102 may rotate while moving, or may rotate after being completely moved.

[0122] In the second folding process (S40), the platform 25 may be folded overlappingly between the first body 122 and the second body 121. In more detail, the first body 121 may be moved to one side of the platform 25 after the previous folding of the platform 25, and the second body 122 may further fold the platform 25 while moving to the other side of the platform 25. That is, the first folded portion 25a may be further folded.

[0123] References Figure 6 The described contents are applicable to the first separation process (S30) and the second folding process (S40).

[0124] The folding method may also include separating the first body 121 and the second body 122 from the platform 25 (S50) (hereinafter referred to as the "second separation process"), rotating a pair of clamping parts 101 and 102 and clamping an inner portion of the platform 25 by the second protrusion 112 instead of the first protrusion 111 (S60) (hereinafter referred to as the "second clamping process"), and additionally folding the platform 25 by the first body 121 (S70) (hereinafter referred to as the "additional folding process").

[0125] In the second separation process (S50), the first body 121 and the second body 122 may be separated from the stage 25. The first body 121 and the second body 122 may be moved so as not to interfere with the pair of clamping members 101 and 102 in the subsequent second clamping process (S60).

[0126] The second body 122 may move farther than the first body 121. This is because the first body 121 needs to be returned to a preset folding position for a subsequent additional folding process (S70).

[0127] In the second clamping process (S60), the corresponding second protrusions 112 of the pair of clamping members 101 and 102 can clamp the platform 25 on both sides. The portion of the platform 25 clamped by the second protrusions 112 can be arranged inside the portion that has been clamped by the first protrusions 111 in the previous first clamping process (S10).

[0128] References Figure 7 The described contents are applicable to the second separation process (S50) and the second clamping process (S60).

[0129] In the additional folding process (S70), the first body 121 that has been away from the platform 25 may be moved to a preset folding position, and then the platform 25 may be additionally folded. The first body 121 may be moved from the outside of the second protrusion 112 of the first clamping member 101 to the outside of the second protrusion 112 of the second clamping member 102. Therefore, the platform 25 may be additionally folded so that the overlapping portion of the platform 25 faces the outer surface of the second protrusion 112 of the second clamping member 102. Therefore, the second folded portion 25b may be formed on the platform 25.

[0130] References Figure 8 The described contents apply to the additional folding process (S70).

[0131] At least one of the first clamping member 101, the second clamping member 102, the first body 121 or the second body 122 can perform the first clamping process (S10) to the additional folding process (S70) in a state heated to a high temperature. Therefore, the platform 25 can be easily folded, and the folded platform 25 can be unfolded again as much as possible.

[0132] The description of the present invention is intended to be illustrative and various changes and modifications may be made by one skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0133] Therefore, the embodiments described herein are intended to describe rather than limit the technical spirit of the present invention. The scope of the technical spirit of the present invention is not limited by the embodiments.

[0134] Furthermore, the protection scope of the present invention should be determined by reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all technical concepts falling within the equivalent scope of the present application should be interpreted as being within the right scope of the present application.

[0135] [Explanation of Reference Numerals]

[0136] 1: Pouch cell 25: Platform

[0137] 101: first clamping member 102: second clamping member

[0138] 110: Main body 110a: Rotation axis

[0139] 111: first protrusion 111a: inclined surface

[0140] 112: second protrusion 121: first body

[0141] 122: Second Subject

Claims

1. A folding device for folding a platform of a pouch-type battery unit, the folding device comprising: a pair of clamping members facing each other, the platform being located between the pair of clamping members; as well as a folding mechanism disposed outside the pair of clamping members to fold the platform, Wherein, each of the clamping components comprises: a body configured to rotate about an axis of rotation parallel to the platform; a first protrusion protruding from one side of the body and configured to clamp the platform; and a second protrusion, the second protrusion protruding from the other side of the body, Wherein, due to the rotation of the body, the second protrusion clamps an inner portion of the platform except for a portion clamped by the first protrusion.

2. The folding device according to claim 1, wherein: The first protrusion includes an inclined surface disposed to be inclined with respect to the platform and to be in contact with the platform.

3. The folding device according to claim 2, wherein: The respective inclined surfaces of the pair of clamping members are arranged parallel to each other.

4. The folding device according to claim 2, wherein: An area where the inclined surface contacts the platform is larger than an area where the second protrusion contacts the platform.

5. The folding device according to claim 1, wherein: The clamping member is arranged to be movable so that the distance between the rotation axis and the platform changes.

6. The folding device according to claim 1, wherein: At least one of the pair of clamping members is configured to heat the platform.

7. The folding device according to claim 1, wherein: The folding mechanism comprises: a first body configured to move so that when the first protrusion of the clamping member clamps the platform, the platform is folded toward the first protrusion; and The second body is configured to move so that when the pair of clamping members move away from the platform, the platform is further folded toward the first body.

8. The folding device according to claim 7, wherein: When the first body and the second body are away from the platform, the clamping member rotates so that the second protrusion clamps the platform.

9. The folding device according to claim 8, wherein: When the second protrusion of the clamping member clamps the platform, the first body is configured to additionally fold the platform while moving.

10. The folding device according to claim 7, wherein: Each of the first body and the second body is disposed to be biaxially movable in a first direction and a second direction, the first direction being parallel to a thickness direction of the battery cell and the second direction being perpendicular to the first direction.

11. The folding device according to claim 1, wherein: At least one of the first body or the second body is configured to heat the platform.

12. A folding method for a platform of a foldable pouch battery cell, the folding method comprising: clamping the platform on both sides by corresponding first protrusions of a pair of clamping members; folding the platform by a first body disposed outside the pair of clamping members; allowing the pair of clamping members to move away from the platform; as well as The second body is moved to face the first body, with the platform being located between the first body and the second body, so that the platform is further folded by the second body.

13. The folding method according to claim 12, wherein: The area of ​​the platform clamped by each first protrusion is clamped to be inclined along the inclined surface of the first protrusion.

14. The folding method according to claim 13, wherein: When the platform is folded by the first body, the platform is folded in a direction opposite to the inclined surface toward an outer surface of the first protrusion of one of the pair of clamping members.

15. The folding method according to claim 12, wherein: When the platform is further folded by the second body, the platform is folded to overlap between the first body and the second body.

16. The folding method according to claim 12, further comprising: separating the first body and the second body from the platform; rotating the pair of clamping members so that the corresponding second protrusions of the pair of clamping members clamp an inner portion of the platform other than a portion clamped by the first protrusions; and The platform is additionally folded by the first body.

17. The folding method according to claim 16, wherein: When the platform is additionally folded by the first body, the platform is folded toward an outer surface of the second protrusion of one of the pair of clamping members.

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