A battery cell packaging system, method, and computer-readable storage medium

Abstract

This application discloses a battery cell packaging system, method, and computer-readable storage medium. The battery cell packaging system includes a feeding device, a sorting component, a robotic arm, and a transfer robot. The transfer robot is configured to receive control commands and move the trays to be transferred. Embodiments of this application utilize a transfer robot to move the battery cells to be transferred, reducing system layout space, miniaturizing the battery cell packaging equipment, and reducing equipment and maintenance costs. Furthermore, the standardized transfer procedure of the transfer robot reduces the possibility of damage to the battery cells, and the flexible and efficient transfer operation reduces manpower and time consumption, improves transfer efficiency, and benefits production line profitability.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of battery technology, and more particularly to a battery cell packaging system, method, and computer-readable storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, the sales of power batteries have experienced explosive growth, thus placing higher demands on the production efficiency of power batteries. Currently, the packaging process of power batteries typically relies on manual labor to handle and move materials, resulting in low levels of automation and problems such as high labor intensity and low production efficiency.

[0003] The above statements are for the purpose of providing background information in relation to this application only and do not necessarily constitute prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The main technical problem this application addresses is the high labor intensity and low production efficiency in the current packaging process of power batteries.

[0005] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, one technical solution adopted in this application is: a battery cell packaging system, comprising:

[0006] The feeding device is configured to receive individual battery cells and obtain information about the type of individual battery cells.

[0007] The sorting component is configured to receive battery cells from the feeding device and divert multiple battery cells to different transfer channels based on type information.

[0008] The robotic arm is configured to grasp individual battery cells on the transfer channel and transfer them to a tray.

[0009] The transfer robot is configured to receive control commands and move the pallets to be transferred.

[0010] This application provides a battery cell packaging system that uses a transfer robot to transport battery cells, reducing system layout space, miniaturizing the battery cell packaging equipment, and reducing equipment and maintenance costs. Furthermore, the standardized transport by the transfer robot reduces the possibility of damage to battery cells, and the robot's flexible and efficient transport reduces manpower and time consumption, improving transport efficiency and ultimately enhancing production line profitability.

[0011] In some embodiments, the transfer robot is further configured to: receive control commands, acquire empty pallets, transfer the acquired empty pallets to the palletizing area, and place them in the pallet mounting positions of the palletizing area.

[0012] In the embodiments of this application, the transfer robot also has the function of replenishing empty pallets, so as to replenish empty pallets in a timely manner when the pallets to be transferred are transferred out, which is beneficial to improving the transfer efficiency of battery cells.

[0013] In some embodiments, the battery cell packaging system includes at least one group of transfer robots, the group of transfer robots including a first transfer robot and a second transfer robot, wherein:

[0014] The first transfer robot is configured to receive a first control command and transfer the pallet to be transferred.

[0015] The second transfer robot is configured to: receive a second control command, acquire an empty pallet, follow the first transfer robot, and place the empty pallet on the pallet mounting position in the palletizing area after the first transfer robot has moved the pallet to be transferred.

[0016] In the embodiments of this application, by setting up a transfer robot group, when one transfer robot takes away the tray containing battery cells, another transfer robot can promptly replace the empty tray, thereby improving the tray replacement efficiency and the transfer efficiency of battery cells.

[0017] In some embodiments, the battery cell packaging system further includes:

[0018] The working condition control module is configured to communicate with the feeding device, sorting components, and robotic arm.

[0019] The transfer control module communicates with the transfer robot and the working condition control module.

[0020] The transfer control module is configured to receive data information transmitted by the working condition control module and issue control commands to control the transfer robot.

[0021] In the embodiments of this application, the transfer robot can transfer battery cells by setting up a working condition control module and a transfer control module, thereby realizing the miniaturization of the battery cell packaging system formed by the transfer robot, the feeding device, the sorting components and the manipulator, and reducing the equipment cost and maintenance cost.

[0022] In some embodiments, the operating condition control module is configured as follows:

[0023] It conveys the information that the tray is full of battery cells;

[0024] Alternatively, it can transmit information indicating that the number of battery cells on the tray has reached a threshold.

[0025] Alternatively, it can convey information indicating a change in the target type of a single battery cell.

[0026] In some embodiments, by setting the working condition control module, information about the battery cells carried by the pallet or information about changes in the target type of the battery cells can be transmitted in a timely manner. The transfer control module can issue control commands to the transfer robot in a timely manner based on the acquired information, thereby improving the transfer efficiency of the battery cell packaging system.

[0027] In some embodiments, the operating condition control module is configured as follows:

[0028] Obtain information on the types of all battery cells entering the feeding device, and count the N types with the highest quantity among all battery cells to determine the target types.

[0029] Calculate the proportion of battery cells for each target type;

[0030] When information is obtained that the proportion of non-target type battery cells exceeds the proportion of target type battery cells, a message is issued indicating that the target type of the battery cells has changed.

[0031] In the embodiments of this application, by setting the operating condition control module, information on changes in the target type of battery cells in the battery cell packaging system can be transmitted in a timely manner based on the information on changes in the type of battery cells in the system.

[0032] In some embodiments, the sorting component includes a sorting device, which includes a primary sorting mechanism, a secondary sorting mechanism, and a buffer mechanism; the primary sorting mechanism is connected to the feeding device, and the secondary sorting mechanism is connected to the primary sorting mechanism; the primary and secondary sorting mechanisms include four-wheel drive, and the buffer mechanism includes eight transfer channels; the primary and secondary sorting mechanisms divert multiple battery cells to different transfer channels based on type information.

[0033] In the embodiments of this application, the primary and secondary material sorting mechanisms include a four-movement sub-drive, and the buffer mechanism includes eight transfer channels. This widens the vertical extension dimension of the sorting device along the sorting direction and reduces the vertical extension dimension of the sorting device along the sorting direction, further reducing the system layout space. This reduces the equipment cost and maintenance cost, and the increased vertical extension dimension of the sorting device along the sorting direction improves the sorting efficiency of individual battery cells.

[0034] In some embodiments, the sorting device further includes a transfer mechanism and a pairing mechanism, wherein the pairing mechanism is used to screen out battery cells that match the target type, and the transfer mechanism is used to arrange multiple battery cells of the same target type in a continuous manner.

[0035] In the embodiments of this application, by setting up a transfer mechanism and a pairing mechanism, multiple battery cells of the same target type are configured into multiple battery cell combinations, so that the robot can grasp multiple battery cells at a time, thereby improving the unloading rate.

[0036] In some embodiments, the sorting assembly includes a plurality of sorting devices and a transition mechanism; the transition mechanism is used to connect a primary dispensing mechanism of the feeding device or the sorting device and is configured to divert battery cells to different sorting devices.

[0037] In the embodiments of this application, the arrangement of multiple sorting devices and transition mechanisms enables the sorting component to sort multiple target types of battery cells, thereby improving sorting efficiency.

[0038] In some embodiments, the sorting assembly further includes a manual handling mechanism and an NG mechanism. The manual handling mechanism is used to connect to the primary sorting mechanism of the feeding device, the transition mechanism, or the sorting device. The manual handling mechanism is configured to receive battery cells that have not been diverted to the sorting device. The NG mechanism is configured to receive battery cells that do not match the target type.

[0039] In the embodiments of this application, the setting of the manual processing mechanism enables non-target type battery cells to be received quickly, and the setting of the NG mechanism facilitates the rapid transfer of battery cells that do not match the target type, thereby improving sorting efficiency.

[0040] In some embodiments, the battery cell packaging system further includes a middle cover feeding mechanism located on the side of the sorting component near the robot arm; wherein the middle cover feeding mechanism is configured to place multiple layers of middle covers; in the multiple layers of middle covers, the top middle cover movably protrudes from the middle covers of the other layers, and the top middle cover is movable toward the robot arm.

[0041] In the embodiments of this application, the middle cover feeding mechanism facilitates the shortening of the distance to the robot arm, enabling the robot arm to quickly grasp the middle cover within its grasping range and improve the stacking efficiency of battery cells.

[0042] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, another technical solution adopted in this application is: a battery cell packaging method applied to the above-mentioned battery cell packaging system, comprising:

[0043] Obtain information on the type of individual battery cells;

[0044] Based on the type information, control information is sent to the sorting component so that the sorting component can divert multiple battery cells to different transfer channels.

[0045] Send control signals to the robotic arm so that it can grasp the battery cells and transfer them to the tray;

[0046] Send control commands to the transfer robot so that it can move the pallet to be transferred.

[0047] In the embodiments of this application, a battery cell packaging method is provided for the battery cell packaging system described above. The battery cells to be transferred are transported by a transfer robot, which reduces the consumption of manpower and time, improves the transfer efficiency, and is conducive to improving the benefits of the production line.

[0048] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, another technical solution adopted in this application is: a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program thereon, which, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the above-mentioned method. Attached Figure Description

[0049] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0050] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the battery cell packaging system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0051] Figure 2 This is another structural schematic diagram of the battery cell packaging system provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0052] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the sorting component provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0053] Figure 4 This is another structural schematic diagram of the sorting component provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0054] Figure 5 This is a schematic flowchart of a battery cell packaging method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0055] Explanation of icon numbers:

[0056] 2000 - Battery cell, 1000 - Battery cell packaging system, 100 - Feeding device, 200 - Sorting component, 300 - Robotic arm, 401 - Transfer robot, 500 - Pallet, 600 - Working condition control module, 700 - Transfer control module, 800 - Middle cover feeding mechanism, 210 - Sorting device, 220 - Transition mechanism, 230 - Manual handling mechanism, 240 - NG mechanism, 211 - Primary sorting mechanism, 212 - Secondary sorting mechanism, 213 - Buffer mechanism, 214 - Transfer mechanism, 215 - Pairing mechanism, 411 - First transfer robot, 412 - Second transfer robot, AA - Palletizing area. Detailed Implementation

[0057] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0058] The terms "first," "second," and "third" in this application are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Therefore, a feature defined as "first," "second," or "third" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified. All directional indications (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.) in the embodiments of this application are only used to explain the relative positional relationships and movements between components in a specific orientation (as shown in the figures). If the specific orientation changes, the directional indications also change accordingly. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, system, product, or device that includes a series of steps or units is not limited to the listed steps or units, but may optionally include steps or units not listed, or may optionally include other steps or units inherent to these processes, methods, products, or devices.

[0059] In this document, the term "embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0060] Currently, the packaging equipment used in the packaging process of power batteries typically includes roller conveyors, which transport the battery cells stacked on pallets to the discharge position. These conveyors occupy a large area and require significant investment in equipment and maintenance costs.

[0061] To address the aforementioned technical problems, embodiments of this application provide a battery cell packaging system that uses a transfer robot to replace the existing roller conveyor, thereby miniaturizing the battery cell packaging equipment and reducing equipment and maintenance costs.

[0062] The technical solutions described in the embodiments of this application are applicable to battery cell packaging systems, methods, and computer-readable storage media. The battery cell packaging systems, methods, and computer-readable storage media disclosed in this application can be used in the field of lithium-ion secondary batteries, and also in the field of sodium-ion secondary batteries, depending on specific requirements.

[0063] The present application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0064] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the battery cell packaging system provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0065] Please see Figure 1 This application provides a battery cell packaging system 1000, including a feeding device 100, a sorting component 200, a robotic arm 300, and a transfer robot 401. The feeding device 100 is configured to receive battery cells 2000 and acquire their type information. The sorting component 200 is configured to receive battery cells 2000 from the feeding device 100 and, based on their type information, divert multiple battery cells 2000 to different transfer channels. The robotic arm 300 is configured to grasp battery cells 2000 on the transfer channel and transfer them to a tray 500. The transfer robot 401 is configured to receive control commands and move the tray 500 to be transferred.

[0066] The battery cell packaging system 1000 refers to a combined equipment system that performs multiple processes such as sorting, stacking, and transferring a large number of battery cells 2000. A battery cell 2000 is the smallest unit that makes up a battery. In some embodiments, a battery cell 2000 includes a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator disposed between the positive and negative electrodes. Since the types of battery cells 2000 in the production line are dynamically changing, the embodiments of this application can automatically switch the types of battery cells 2000 entering the sorting component 200 based on the acquired battery cell type information, so that the sorting component 200 can operate at high efficiency for a long time, improving the operating efficiency of the battery cell packaging system 1000. In some embodiments, the discharge port of the feeding device 100 is equipped with a barcode scanner for scanning the battery cells 2000 to obtain their type information. In some embodiments, the sorting component 200 includes multiple transfer channels for receiving battery cells 2000. In some embodiments, the transfer channel of the sorting component 200 is located within the gripping range of the robotic arm 300. In embodiments of this application, multiple battery cells 2000 transferred to the same pallet 500 should, in principle, be of the same type. The transfer robot 401 refers to a robot with automatic guidance capabilities, capable of traveling along a set guide path, and possessing various transfer and / or load-bearing functions. The number of transfer robots 401 can be one or more, depending on the specific requirements. In some embodiments, the transfer robot 401 has a fixed standby position. Without receiving a control command, the transfer robot 401 remains in the standby position. Upon receiving a control command, the transfer robot 401 leaves the standby position and transfers to the palletizing area of ​​the pallet 500. In some embodiments, there can be multiple standby positions, facilitating the scheduling of multiple transfer robots to transfer multiple pallets 500 when they are to be transferred. In some embodiments, the transferred pallets 500 can be stored in an area adjacent to the battery cell packaging system 1000 to improve transfer efficiency. In some embodiments, the transfer robot 401 refers to an Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV).

[0067] In the embodiments of this application, a battery cell packaging system 1000 including a transfer robot 401 is provided. The transfer robot 401 transports the battery cells 2000 to be transferred. Compared to setting up fixed transfer equipment, this reduces the system's layout space, achieves miniaturization of the battery cell packaging system 1000, and reduces equipment and maintenance costs. Furthermore, the standardized transport by the transfer robot 401 reduces the possibility of damage to the battery cells 2000, and the flexible and efficient transport by the transfer robot 401 reduces manpower and time consumption, improves transport efficiency, and is beneficial to improving production line profits.

[0068] In some embodiments, the transfer robot 401 is further configured to: receive control commands, acquire an empty pallet 500, transfer the acquired empty pallet 500 to the palletizing area AA, and place it in the pallet mounting position of the palletizing area AA.

[0069] In this context, the palletizing area AA refers to the palletizing area of ​​the pallet 500. In some embodiments, multiple pallets 500 are stacked and palletized in the palletizing area AA. In some embodiments, there are multiple palletizing areas AA, each used to receive multiple battery cells 2000 of a single type. In some embodiments, the multiple palletizing areas AA are located within the gripping range of a robotic arm. In some embodiments, empty pallets 500 can be located in an empty pallet storage area, which can be adjacent to the area where the battery cell packaging system 1000 is located, to reduce the transfer path length of the transfer robot 401.

[0070] In the embodiments of this application, the transfer robot 401 also has the function of replenishing empty trays 500, so as to replenish empty trays 500 in a timely manner when the trays 500 to be transferred are transferred out, which is beneficial to improving the transfer efficiency of battery cells 2000.

[0071] In some embodiments, the battery cell packaging system 1000 includes at least one transfer robot group 410, which includes a first transfer robot 411 and a second transfer robot 412. The first transfer robot 411 is configured to receive a first control command and transfer a pallet 500 to be transferred. The second transfer robot 412 is configured to receive a second control command, acquire an empty pallet 500, follow the first transfer robot 411, and, after the first transfer robot 411 has transferred the pallet 500, place the empty pallet 500 on a pallet mounting position in the pallet mounting area AA.

[0072] The transfer robot group 410 is used to improve the efficiency of pallet 500 replacement. In some embodiments, the first transfer robot 411 and the second transfer robot 412 can be started simultaneously. In some embodiments, the first transfer robot 411 can be started first, followed by the second transfer robot 412. In some embodiments, the second transfer robot 412 can be started first, followed by the first transfer robot 411. In some embodiments, the second transfer robot 412 can be pre-acquired with an empty pallet 500. After receiving the control command, both robots start simultaneously. The second transfer robot 412, carrying the empty pallet 500, follows the first transfer robot 411. When the first transfer robot 411 moves the pallet 500 to be transferred, the empty pallet 500 is placed on the pallet mounting position in the pallet mounting area AA. In some embodiments, the second transfer robot 412 can be pre-stored in the standby position of the first transfer robot 411, or it can be pre-stored in the pallet mounting area AA where the empty pallet 500 to be transferred is located. In some embodiments, multiple transfer robot groups 410 can be set up to improve transfer efficiency. In some embodiments, the transfer robot group 410 may include a plurality of first transfer robots 411 and a plurality of second transfer robots 412 to improve transfer efficiency.

[0073] In the embodiments of this application, by setting up a transfer robot group 410, when one transfer robot 401 takes away the tray 500 containing the battery cell 2000, another transfer robot 401 can promptly replace the empty tray, thereby improving the replacement efficiency of the tray 500 and increasing the transfer efficiency of the battery cell 2000.

[0074] Please see Figure 2 , Figure 2 This is another structural schematic diagram of the battery cell packaging system provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0075] In some embodiments, see Figure 2 The battery cell packaging system 1000 also includes a condition control module 600 and a transfer control module 700. The condition control module 600 is configured to communicate with the feeding device 100, the sorting assembly 200, and the robotic arm 300. The transfer control module 700 communicates with the transfer robot 401 and the condition control module 600. Specifically, the transfer control module 700 is configured to receive data from the condition control module 600 and issue control commands to the transfer robot 401.

[0076] In the embodiments of this application, the transfer robot 401 transfers the battery cell 2000 by setting up the working condition control module 600 and the transfer control module 700, thereby realizing the miniaturization of the battery cell packaging system 1000 formed by the transfer robot 401, the feeding device 100, the sorting component 200 and the robot arm 300, reducing the equipment cost and maintenance cost.

[0077] In some embodiments, please refer to the following: Figure 1 and Figure 2 The operating condition control module 600 is configured to: transmit information that the number of battery cells 2000 carried on the tray 500 has reached the full capacity; or, transmit information that the number of battery cells 2000 carried on the tray 500 has reached a threshold; or, transmit information that the target type of the battery cells 2000 has changed.

[0078] Here, "full tray" refers to the maximum number of battery cells 2000 carried by the pallet 500. The threshold refers to a preset number of battery cells 2000 carried on the pallet 500. The operating condition control module 600 is configured to transmit information indicating that the number of battery cells 2000 carried on the pallet 500 has reached the threshold, facilitating the advance call to the transfer robot 401. This ensures that the timing of the pallet 500 reaching full capacity is close to the timing of the transfer robot 401 moving to the palletizing area AA, improving transfer efficiency. In some embodiments, a model can be established based on the historical data of battery cell 2000 unloading. The transfer robot 401 can be notified in advance, even before the pallet 500 is full, without waiting for it to reach full capacity, further improving transfer efficiency. The operating condition control module 600 is configured to transmit information that the target type of the battery cell 2000 has changed, so that the tray 500 containing the battery cell 2000 that no longer belongs to the target type can be removed in a timely manner according to the dynamic changes of the production line, so that the new target type battery cell 2000 can be transferred by the robot arm 300 to the empty tray 500.

[0079] In some embodiments, the working condition control module 600 can transmit information about the battery cells 2000 carried by the tray 500 or information about changes in the target type of the battery cells 2000 in a timely manner. The transfer control module 700 can issue control commands to the transfer robot in a timely manner based on the acquired information, thereby improving the transfer efficiency of the battery cell packaging system 1000.

[0080] In some embodiments, please refer to [reference]. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The operating condition control module 600 is configured as follows:

[0081] Obtain the type information of all 2000 battery cells entering the feeding device 100, and count the N types with the largest number among all 2000 battery cells to determine the target types.

[0082] Calculate the proportion of 2000 battery cells for each target type;

[0083] When information is obtained that the proportion of non-target type battery cells 2000 exceeds the proportion of target type battery cells 2000, a message is issued indicating that the target type of battery cell 2000 has changed.

[0084] In some embodiments, a barcode scanner is installed at the discharge port of the feeding device 100. The barcode scanner scans the battery cells 2000 at the discharge port to obtain information on the type of all battery cells 2000 entering the feeding device 100. In some embodiments, the total number of battery cells 2000 entering the feeding device 100 and the number of battery cells 2000 transported away by the transfer robot 401 are counted. Based on the difference between these two counts, the total number of battery cells 2000 in the battery cell packaging system 1000 can be obtained. Information indicating a change in the target type of battery cells 2000 is promptly issued based on the proportion of each type of battery cell 2000 in the battery cell packaging system 1000 to the total number.

[0085] In the embodiments of this application, by setting the operating condition control module 600, information on the change of target type of battery cells 2000 in the battery cell packaging system 1000 can be transmitted in a timely manner according to the change information of the type of battery cells 2000 in the system.

[0086] Please see Figure 3 , Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the sorting component provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0087] In some embodiments, please refer to the following: Figure 1 and Figure 3 The sorting component 200 provided in the embodiments of this application includes a sorting device 210, which includes a primary sorting mechanism 211, a secondary sorting mechanism 212, and a buffer mechanism 213. The primary sorting mechanism 211 is connected to the feeding device 100, and the secondary sorting mechanism 212 is connected to the primary sorting mechanism 211. The primary sorting mechanism 211 and the secondary sorting mechanism 212 include a four-wheel drive, and the buffer mechanism 213 includes eight transfer channels. The primary sorting mechanism 211 and the secondary sorting mechanism 212 divert multiple battery cells 2000 to different transfer channels based on the type information.

[0088] In some embodiments, the primary sorting mechanism 211 is configured to separate two target types of battery cells 2000 from a variety of battery cells 2000. The secondary sorting mechanism 212 is configured to divert the two target types of battery cells 2000 to different transfer channels, and then into the buffer mechanism 213 via these different transfer channels. The buffer mechanism 213 is configured to receive and store multiple battery cells 2000 from the secondary sorting mechanism 212, harmonizing the differences in the feed and discharge rates of the battery cells 2000. In some embodiments, of the eight transfer channels included in the buffer mechanism 213, four adjacent channels are configured to receive one target type of battery cell 2000, and another four adjacent channels are configured to receive another target type of battery cell 2000.

[0089] In the embodiments of this application, the primary sorting mechanism 211 and the secondary sorting mechanism 212 include a four-movement sub-drive, and the buffer mechanism 213 includes an eight transfer channel configuration. This widens the vertical extension dimension of the sorting device 210 along the sorting direction and reduces the vertical extension dimension of the sorting device 210 along the sorting direction, further reducing the system layout space. This reduces the equipment cost and maintenance cost, and the widening of the vertical extension dimension of the sorting device 210 along the sorting direction improves the sorting efficiency of the battery cells 2000.

[0090] In some embodiments, please refer to [reference]. Figure 1 and Figure 3 The sorting device 210 provided in the embodiments of this application further includes a transfer mechanism 214 and a pairing mechanism 215. The pairing mechanism 215 is used to screen out battery cells 2000 that match the target type, and the transfer mechanism 214 is used to arrange multiple battery cells 2000 of the same target type in a continuous manner.

[0091] In some embodiments, the transfer mechanism 214 is configured to transfer multiple battery cells 2000 of the same target type arranged consecutively from the buffer mechanism 213 to the pairing mechanism 215. In some embodiments, the pairing mechanism 215 is configured to transfer multiple battery cells 2000 of the same target type as a whole to the robot arm 300. In some embodiments, the pairing mechanism 214 is equipped with a barcode scanner for scanning the battery cells 2000 to obtain the type information of the battery cells 2000. If other types of battery cells 2000 are found, the robot arm 300 transfers this group of battery cells out. If the type information is correct, the robot arm 300 stacks this group of battery cells into the corresponding tray 500.

[0092] In the embodiments of this application, the transfer mechanism 214 and the pairing mechanism 215 are configured to allow multiple battery cells 2000 of the same target type to be combined into multiple battery cell combinations, so that the robot arm 300 can grasp the battery cell combinations and improve the unloading rate.

[0093] Please see Figure 4 , Figure 4 This is another structural schematic diagram of the sorting component provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0094] In some embodiments, please refer to the following: Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 The sorting assembly 200 provided in the embodiments of this application includes a plurality of sorting devices 210 and a transition mechanism 220. The transition mechanism 220 is used to connect the primary dispensing mechanism 211 of the feeding device 100 or the sorting device 210, and is configured to divert the battery cells 2000 to different sorting devices 210.

[0095] In some embodiments, the transition mechanism 220 is disposed on the side of the transition mechanism 220 away from the sorting device 210. In some embodiments, the sorting assembly 200 includes two sorting devices 210, which are arranged in parallel and spaced apart. The first sorting device 210 is used to sort out battery cells 2000 of the first and second target types, and the second sorting device 210 is used to sort out battery cells 2000 of the third and fourth target types. One end of the transition mechanism 220 is connected to the primary feeding mechanism 211 of the first sorting device 210, and the other end is connected to the primary feeding mechanism 211 of the second sorting device 210. It is used to receive battery cells 2000 that have not entered the first sorting device 210 and to allow battery cells 2000 of the third and fourth target types to enter the second sorting device 210.

[0096] In the embodiments of this application, by setting up multiple sorting devices 210 and transition mechanisms 220, the sorting component 200 can sort multiple target types of battery cells 2000, thereby improving sorting efficiency.

[0097] In some embodiments, please refer to [reference]. Figure 1 and Figure 4 The sorting assembly 200 provided in the embodiments of this application further includes a manual processing mechanism 230 and an NG mechanism 240. The manual processing mechanism 230 is used to connect to the primary sorting mechanism 211 of the feeding device 100, the transition mechanism 220, or the sorting device 210. The manual processing mechanism 230 is configured to receive battery cells 2000 that have not been diverted to the sorting device 210. The NG mechanism 240 is configured to receive battery cells 2000 that do not match the target type.

[0098] In some embodiments, the NG mechanism 240 cooperates with the pairing mechanism 214 to receive battery cells 2000 that do not match the target type after being scanned by the pairing mechanism 214, and quickly transfers the mismatched battery cells 2000 out, which helps to improve the accuracy and efficiency of sorting.

[0099] In the embodiments of this application, the manual processing mechanism 230 enables non-target type battery cells 2000 to be received quickly, and the NG mechanism 240 facilitates the rapid transfer of battery cells 2000 that do not match the target type, thereby improving sorting efficiency.

[0100] In some embodiments, please continue to see Figure 1 The battery cell packaging system 1000 provided in the embodiments of this application also includes a middle cover feeding mechanism 800, which is disposed on the side of the sorting component 200 near the robot arm 300. The middle cover feeding mechanism 800 is configured to hold multiple layers of middle covers. Among the multiple layers of middle covers, the top middle cover movably protrudes beyond the other layers and is movable toward the robot arm 300.

[0101] The middle cover is positioned between two adjacent layers of battery cells 2000 within the same tray 500, serving to protect and buffer the adjacent battery cells 2000. The middle cover feeding mechanism 800 is used to pre-store multiple middle covers, allowing the robot arm 300 to promptly transfer the middle covers to the top of the battery cells 2000 in one layer. In some embodiments, the middle cover feeding mechanism 800 includes a main structure, typically a shelf, on which multiple layers of trays 500 are mounted, each carrying a middle cover. In embodiments of this application, the top tray 500 movably protrudes from the main structure. In some embodiments, a guide rail structure is provided at the top of the main structure, allowing the top tray 500 to protrude from the main structure, enabling the top middle cover to move towards the robot arm 300 for easy grasping. In some embodiments, the middle cover is also supplemented by a transfer robot 401 to the middle cover feeding mechanism 800, reducing the need for fixed transfer equipment, simplifying the layout of the battery cell packaging system 1000, and reducing the difficulty of transfer.

[0102] In the embodiments of this application, the middle cover feeding mechanism 800 is designed to shorten the distance to the robot arm 300, enabling the robot arm 300 to quickly grasp the middle cover within its grasping range and improve the stacking efficiency of the battery cells 2000.

[0103] In one specific embodiment, the workflow of the battery cell packaging system 1000 provided in this application is as follows:

[0104] Battery cells 2000 are input through the feeding device 100. A barcode scanner at the outlet of the feeding device 100 identifies the type of battery cells 2000. The cells flow into the primary sorting mechanism 211 of the first sorting device 210. Battery cells 2000 of the first and second target types are diverted to the secondary sorting mechanism 212 of the first sorting device 210. The battery cells 2000 of the first and second target types are then sequentially diverted to the buffer mechanism 213 of the eight transfer channels. When the buffer mechanism 213 is full of 10 battery cells 2000, the transfer mechanism 214 is triggered to pair and arrange the 10 battery cells 2000. After pairing, the pairing mechanism 215 performs a second barcode scan to confirm the type of battery cells 2000. If other types of battery cells 2000 are found, the robot arm 300 grabs the battery cells 2000 in this row and places them in the NG mechanism 240 to remove the mismatched battery cells 2000. If the information is correct, the robotic arm 300 will stack the 2000 individual battery cells into the corresponding pallet 500.

[0105] The third-target-type battery cells 2000, the fourth-target-type battery cells 2000, and other types of battery cells 2000 in the primary sorting mechanism 211 of the first sorting device 210 are diverted to the primary sorting mechanism 211 of the second sorting device 210 via the transition mechanism 220. The primary sorting mechanism 211 then diverts the third and fourth-target-type battery cells 2000 to the secondary sorting mechanism 212 of the second sorting device 210, where they are further diverted to the secondary sorting mechanism 212. The individual battery cells 2000 are sequentially distributed to the buffer mechanism 213 of the eight transfer channels. When the buffer mechanism 213 is full of 10 battery cells 2000, the transfer mechanism 214 is triggered to pair and arrange the 10 battery cells 2000. After pairing, the pairing mechanism 215 performs a second scan to confirm the type of battery cell 2000. If other types of battery cells 2000 are found, the robot arm 300 picks up the battery cells 2000 in this column and places them in the NG mechanism 240 to remove the mismatched battery cells 2000. If the information is correct, the robot arm 300 stacks the battery cells 2000 into the corresponding tray 500.

[0106] Other types of battery cells 2000 in the primary sorting mechanism 211 of the second sorting device 210 are discharged through the manual processing mechanism 230 for manual sorting and stacking.

[0107] When the transfer control module 700 receives information that the battery cells 2000 on the pallet 500 are full; or, when it receives information that the number of battery cells 2000 on the pallet 500 has reached a threshold; or when it receives information that the target type of the battery cells 2000 has changed, it controls the transfer robot 401 to move to the pallet 500 to be transferred and move the pallet 500 to be transferred out.

[0108] During production line operation, battery cells 2000 are generated in real time. The working condition control module 600 improves the formula of battery cells 2000 in real time and realizes automatic switching. A model is built based on the historical data of battery cells 2000 being unloaded. When the pallet 500 carrying battery cells 2000 is not yet full, the transfer robot is notified in advance based on the historical unloading data to realize intelligent and flexible transfer.

[0109] Please see Figure 5 , Figure 5 This is a schematic flowchart of a battery cell packaging method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0110] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, another technical solution adopted in this application is: Please refer to Figure 5 The embodiments of this application provide a battery cell packaging method applied to the above-described battery cell packaging system 1000, comprising:

[0111] S1, Obtain the type information of battery cell 2000;

[0112] S2, based on the type information, send control information to the sorting component 200 so that the sorting component 200 can divert multiple battery cells 2000 to different transfer channels;

[0113] S3, send a control signal to the robot arm 300 so that the robot arm 300 can grasp the battery cell 2000 and transfer the grasped battery cell 2000 to the tray 500;

[0114] S4, send a control command to the transfer robot 401 so that the transfer robot 401 can transfer the pallet 500 to be transferred.

[0115] In the embodiments of this application, a battery cell packaging method is provided for the battery cell packaging system 1000 described above. The battery cells 2000 to be transferred are transported by a transfer robot 401, which reduces the consumption of manpower and time, improves the transfer efficiency, and is conducive to improving the benefits of the production line.

[0116] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, another technical solution adopted in this application is: a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program thereon, which, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the above-mentioned method.

[0117] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the processes in the methods of the above embodiments can be implemented by a computer program instructing related hardware. This computer program can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium, and when executed, it can include the processes of the embodiments of the methods described above. The aforementioned storage medium can be a non-volatile storage medium such as a magnetic disk, optical disk, or read-only memory (ROM), or random access memory (RAM).

[0118] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, apparatuses, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces, or indirect coupling or communication connection between apparatuses or units, and may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0119] Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional unit.

[0120] The above description is merely an embodiment of this application and does not limit the patent scope of this application. Any equivalent structural or procedural transformations made using the content of this application's specification and drawings, or direct or indirect applications in other related technical fields, are similarly included within the patent protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A battery cell packaging system, characterized in that, include: The feeding device is configured to receive individual battery cells and obtain information about the type of the individual battery cells. The sorting component is configured to receive battery cells from the feeding device and to divert multiple battery cells to different transfer channels based on the type information. A robotic arm is configured to grasp the battery cells on the transfer channel and transfer the grasped battery cells to a tray; The transfer robot is configured to receive control commands and move the pallets to be transferred. The working condition control module is configured to communicate with the feeding device, the sorting component, and the robotic arm. The working condition control module is configured to: when the number of battery cells reaches a threshold, transmit information indicating that the number of battery cells on the tray has reached a threshold, so as to preemptively call the transfer robot, so that the timing of the tray being full of battery cells is close to the timing of the transfer robot transferring to the palletizing area; when the number of battery cells on the tray reaches the full quantity, send the control command to control the transfer robot to transfer the tray to be transferred out.

2. The battery cell packaging system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The transfer robot is also configured to: receive control commands, acquire empty pallets, transfer the acquired empty pallets to the palletizing area, and place them in the pallet mounting positions of the palletizing area.

3. The battery cell packaging system according to claim 2, characterized in that, It includes at least one group of transfer robots, the group of transfer robots comprising a first transfer robot and a second transfer robot, wherein: The first transfer robot is configured to: receive a first control command and transfer the pallet to be transferred out; The second transfer robot is configured to: receive a second control command, acquire an empty pallet, follow the first transfer robot, and place the empty pallet on the pallet mounting position in the palletizing area when the first transfer robot has moved the pallet to be transferred out.

4. The battery cell packaging system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, Also includes: The transfer control module is communicatively connected to the transfer robot and the working condition control module. The transfer control module is configured to receive data information transmitted by the working condition control module and issue control commands to control the transfer robot.

5. The battery cell packaging system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The operating condition control module is configured as follows: This conveys information indicating a change in the target type of the battery cell.

6. The battery cell packaging system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The operating condition control module is configured as follows: Obtain the type information of all battery cells entering the feeding device, and count the N types with the largest number of all battery cells to determine the target type; Calculate the proportion of battery cells for each target type; When information is obtained that the proportion of non-target type battery cells exceeds the proportion of target type battery cells, a message is issued indicating that the target type of battery cells has changed.

7. The battery cell packaging system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sorting component includes a sorting device, which includes a primary sorting mechanism, a secondary sorting mechanism, and a buffer mechanism. The primary sorting mechanism is connected to the feeding device, and the secondary sorting mechanism is connected to the primary sorting mechanism. The primary and secondary sorting mechanisms include four-wheel drive, and the buffer mechanism includes eight transfer channels. The primary and secondary sorting mechanisms divert multiple battery cells to different transfer channels based on the type information.

8. The battery cell packaging system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The sorting device further includes a transfer mechanism and a pairing mechanism. The pairing mechanism is used to screen out battery cells that match the target type, and the transfer mechanism is used to arrange multiple battery cells of the same target type in a continuous manner.

9. The battery cell packaging system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The sorting assembly includes multiple sorting devices and a transition mechanism; the transition mechanism is used to connect the feeding device or the primary sorting mechanism of the sorting device, and is configured to divert individual battery cells to different sorting devices.

10. The battery cell packaging system according to claim 9, characterized in that, The sorting assembly further includes a manual processing mechanism and an NG mechanism. The manual processing mechanism is used to connect to the feeding device, the transition mechanism, or the primary sorting mechanism of the sorting device. The manual processing mechanism is configured to receive battery cells that have not been diverted to the sorting device. The NG mechanism is configured to receive battery cells that do not match the target type.

11. The battery cell packaging system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The battery cell packaging system also includes a middle cover feeding mechanism, located on the side of the sorting component near the robot arm; wherein the middle cover feeding mechanism is configured to place multiple layers of middle covers; among the multiple layers of middle covers, the top middle cover is movably protruding from the middle covers of other layers, and the top middle cover is movable toward the robot arm.

12. A method for packaging battery cells using a battery cell packaging system according to any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, include: Obtain information on the type of individual battery cells; Based on the type information, control information is sent to the sorting component so that the sorting component can divert multiple battery cells to different transfer channels. A control signal is sent to the robotic arm to enable the robotic arm to grasp the battery cell and transfer the grasped battery cell to the tray; Send control commands to the transfer robot so that the transfer robot can move the pallet to be transferred.

13. A computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, characterized in that, When the computer program is executed by a processor, it implements the steps of the method of claim 12.

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