Splicing device and pole piece lithium supplementing system

Abstract

The invention provides a splicing device and a pole piece lithium supplementing system. The splicing device comprises a splicing assembly and a controller, and the controller is electrically connected with the splicing assembly and is configured to control the splicing assembly to connect the tail end part of the first lithium strip with the initial end part of the second lithium strip; wherein each of the first lithium strip and the second lithium strip is provided with a starting end part and a tail end part. Therefore, when the lithium strips are replaced, the controller is used for controlling the splicing assembly, and the splicing assembly connects the tail end part of the first lithium strip and the starting end part of the second lithium strip into a whole; therefore, the problems of high difficulty and long time consumption of manual operation in related technologies are solved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the technical field of lithium batteries, and particularly to a splicing device and a pole piece lithium supplement system. Background Art

[0002] During the calendering process of the lithium supplement winding equipment (abbreviated as LPD machine, also known as the pole piece lithium supplement system), the pole piece and the lithium strip can be rolled into a whole along the thickness direction of the pole piece (or the thickness direction of the lithium strip), and this whole can be used in lithium batteries to supplement the consumed lithium ions. Among them, when the old lithium strip is used up, the old lithium strip is removed and a new lithium strip is replaced, so that the new lithium strip and the pole piece are rolled into a whole. The operation is difficult and time-consuming (i.e., the operation time is long). Summary of the Invention

[0003] The main technical problem to be solved by this application is to provide a splicing device and a pole piece lithium supplement system, which solve the problems of large operation difficulty and long time consumption in temporarily connecting the new lithium strip and the old lithium strip manually.

[0004] To solve the above technical problem, the first technical solution adopted by this application is: to provide a splicing device including a splicing component and a controller, the controller is electrically connected to the splicing component and is configured to control the splicing component to connect the end part of the first lithium strip to the start part of the second lithium strip; wherein, both the first lithium strip and the second lithium strip have a start part and an end part. In this way, when replacing the lithium strip, the controller is used to control the splicing component, and the splicing component connects the end part of the first lithium strip to the start part of the second lithium strip into a whole (that is, there is no disconnected part between the two); thus solving the problems of large operation difficulty and long time consumption in the related art through manual operation.

[0005] In some embodiments, the splicing component includes: an extrusion mechanism or a welding mechanism, the extrusion mechanism is configured to extrude and connect the end part of the first lithium strip to the start part of the second lithium strip. The welding mechanism is configured to weld and connect the end part of the first lithium strip to the start part of the second lithium strip. The first lithium strip and the second lithium strip are connected by welding or extrusion.

[0006] In some embodiments, the splicing component includes an extrusion mechanism, and the extrusion mechanism includes: a base and a pressing mechanism, the pressing mechanism is electrically connected to the controller. Wherein, the controller is configured to control the pressing mechanism to move closer to or away from the base. In this way, the end part of the first lithium strip and the start part of the second lithium strip are placed on the base, and the controller is used to control the pressing mechanism to move towards the base, and the end part of the first lithium strip and the start part of the second lithium strip are extruded and connected by the cooperation of the pressing mechanism and the base.

[0007] In some embodiments, the extrusion mechanism further includes a first protective film and / or a second protective film. The first protective film is disposed on at least a part of the surface of the base close to the pressing mechanism. The second protective film is disposed on the surface of the pressing mechanism close to the base. The provided first protective film can reduce the damage to the first lithium strip and the second lithium strip by the base (such as surface scratches, bruises, etc.); the provided second protective film can reduce the damage to the first lithium strip and the second lithium strip by the pressing mechanism (such as surface scratches, bruises, etc.).

[0008] In some embodiments, the splicing device further includes a first limiting mechanism, and the first limiting mechanism is electrically connected to the controller; the first limiting mechanism is configured to move onto or away from the path of the pressing mechanism approaching the base; wherein, the controller is configured to, in response to receiving a connection start signal, control the first limiting mechanism to move away from the path of the pressing mechanism approaching the base; and, in response to receiving a connection completion signal, control the first limiting mechanism to move onto the path of the pressing mechanism approaching the base. In this way, in response to receiving a connection completion signal, the controller controls the first limiting mechanism to be located on the path of the pressing mechanism towards the base, so that the first limiting mechanism can hinder the pressing mechanism from moving towards the base, thereby preventing the splicing assembly from connecting the first lithium strip and the second lithium strip; it can avoid the problem of accidentally triggering the splicing assembly and causing a safety accident. In response to receiving a connection start signal, the controller controls the first limiting mechanism to move away from the path of the pressing mechanism towards the base, so that the splicing assembly can move towards the base, thereby connecting the first lithium strip and the second lithium strip.

[0009] In some embodiments, the splicing device further includes a housing and a cover. The housing has an operation port, and an inlet and an outlet that are oppositely arranged; the operation port is configured to expose the end portion of the first lithium strip and the start portion of the second lithium strip; when the splicing device is splicing, the end portion of the first lithium strip passes through the outlet and is located inside the housing; the start portion of the second lithium strip passes through the inlet and is located inside the housing; at least a part of the splicing assembly is disposed inside the housing. The cover is movably disposed on the housing and is configured to cover or expose the operation port. The provided housing and cover can play a protective role. The operation port facilitates the operation of the staff, such as aligning the first lithium strip and the second lithium strip; or removing the connecting portion on the first lithium strip, etc.

[0010] In some embodiments, the splicing device further includes a locking mechanism, which is electrically connected to the controller; the locking mechanism is configured to lock the cover body and the housing. Wherein, the controller is configured to, in response to the locking mechanism locking the cover body and the housing, control the splicing assembly to connect the end portion of the first lithium strip and the starting end portion of the second lithium strip or resume the control function of the splicing assembly. In this way, when the locking mechanism is locked, the cover body seals the operation port of the housing, and then the controller will control the splicing assembly, thereby avoiding the splicing device from accidentally injuring the staff. When the locking mechanism is not locked, the cover body can rotate, exposing the operation port.

[0011] In some embodiments, the splicing device further includes at least one switch, and the at least one switch is electrically connected to the controller. Wherein, the controller is configured to, in response to the states of all the switches changing, control the splicing assembly to connect the end portion of the first lithium strip and the starting end portion of the second lithium strip. In this way, when the states of all the switches are changed simultaneously, the controller is caused to control the splicing assembly to start operating. The provided at least one switch enables the operator to operate the splicing device more safely.

[0012] In some embodiments, the number of the at least one switch is two, and the distance between the two switches is greater than 30 cm. In this way, the two switches need to be triggered simultaneously by both hands to change the states of the two switches; thus, it is possible to avoid the situation of accidentally touching one switch and causing safety accidents, etc.

[0013] In some embodiments, the splicing device further includes a first detection mechanism, an alarm mechanism and an anti-extrusion member; both the first detection mechanism and the alarm mechanism are electrically connected to the controller; wherein, the controller is configured to, in response to the first detection mechanism not detecting that the anti-extrusion member is in the preset position, control the alarm mechanism to give an alarm; and in response to detecting that the anti-extrusion member is in the preset position, control the alarm mechanism to stop giving an alarm. In this way, through the cooperation of the first detection mechanism, the alarm mechanism and the anti-extrusion member, the splicing device has an additional protection function, and safety accidents caused by accidentally touching the splicing device can be reduced.

[0014] In some embodiments, the splicing device further includes a first fixing mechanism and / or a second fixing mechanism. The first fixing mechanism is configured to limit the movement of the end portion of the first lithium strip. The second fixing mechanism is configured to limit the movement of the starting end portion of the second lithium strip. In this way, the provided first fixing mechanism reduces the shaking of the first lithium strip, thereby facilitating the splicing of the first lithium strip and the second lithium strip. The provided second fixing mechanism reduces the shaking of the second lithium strip, thereby facilitating the splicing of the first lithium strip and the second lithium strip.

[0015] In some embodiments, the splicing device includes a first fixing mechanism; the splicing device further includes: a second detection mechanism, both the second detection mechanism and the first fixing mechanism are electrically connected to a controller; the controller is configured to send a stop lithium replenishment signal in response to the second detection mechanism detecting that the first lithium strip roll is used up, and control the first fixing mechanism to restrict the movement of the end portion of the first lithium strip. The provided second detection mechanism can prevent the first lithium strip from being used up (i.e., the first lithium strip is completely spliced with the electrode sheet), so that the end portion of the first lithium strip can be located in the housing, facilitating the splicing of the first lithium strip and the second lithium strip, and solving the problem that the first lithium strip and the second lithium strip cannot be spliced.

[0016] In some embodiments, the splicing device includes a second fixing mechanism; the splicing device further includes: a third detection mechanism, both the third detection mechanism and the second fixing mechanism are electrically connected to a controller; the controller is configured to control the second fixing mechanism to restrict the movement of the starting end portion of the second lithium strip in response to the third detection mechanism detecting that the end portion of the first lithium strip is aligned with the starting end portion of the second lithium strip. The provided third detection mechanism can detect the alignment of the first lithium strip and the second lithium strip, solving the problem of time-consuming manual alignment, thereby reducing the alignment time of the first lithium strip and the second lithium strip, facilitating the splicing of the first lithium strip and the second lithium strip, and improving the splicing efficiency of the first lithium strip and the second lithium strip.

[0017] In some embodiments, the splicing device further includes: a fourth detection mechanism, electrically connected to the controller; the controller is configured to control the first fixing mechanism and the second fixing mechanism to release the restriction in response to the fourth detection mechanism detecting the completion of the connection between the end portion of the first lithium strip and the starting end portion of the second lithium strip. The provided fourth detection mechanism can detect the completion of the connection between the end portion of the first lithium strip and the starting end portion of the second lithium strip, solving the problem of time-consuming manual observation of the completion of the connection between the first lithium strip and the second lithium strip; after the first fixing mechanism and the second fixing mechanism release the restriction, it is convenient to roll the spliced first lithium strip and the second lithium strip together with the electrode sheet.

[0018] In some embodiments, the splicing device further includes: a rolling device, configured to flatten the end portion of the first lithium strip and / or the starting end portion of the second lithium strip. The rolling device can be used to flatten the lithium strip, facilitating the alignment and connection of the first lithium strip and the second lithium strip.

[0019] In some embodiments, the splicing device further includes: a cutting device, configured to cut off the portion of the end portion of the first lithium strip where the connecting portion is pasted. The cutting device is used to cut off the portion of the end portion of the first lithium strip where the connecting portion is pasted, so as to prevent this portion from being rolled with the electrode sheet and used in a lithium battery.

[0020] To solve the above technical problems, the second technical solution provided by this application is: to provide a lithium supplement system for a pole piece, which includes a lithium strip unwinding mechanism, a pole piece unwinding mechanism, a rolling mechanism, and a splicing device. The lithium strip unwinding mechanism is configured to replaceably install a first lithium strip or a second lithium strip; both the first lithium strip and the second lithium strip have a starting end and a terminal end. The pole piece unwinding mechanism is configured to install a pole piece. The rolling mechanism is configured to squeeze and connect the pole piece and the lithium strip released by the lithium strip unwinding mechanism along the thickness direction of the pole piece. The above-mentioned splicing device is configured to connect the terminal end of the first lithium strip to the starting end of the second lithium strip; wherein, the splicing device is located on the path of the released lithium strip from the lithium strip unwinding mechanism to the rolling mechanism. In this way, the provided splicing device can accelerate the splicing speed of the first lithium strip and the second lithium strip, thereby improving the splicing efficiency of the lithium strip and the pole piece.

[0021] In some embodiments, the lithium supplement system for the pole piece further includes a control circuit, which is electrically connected to the controller of the splicing device, the pole piece unwinding mechanism, the lithium strip unwinding mechanism, and the rolling mechanism; the control circuit is configured to, in response to receiving the start lithium supplement signal from the controller, control the pole piece unwinding mechanism, the lithium strip unwinding mechanism, and the rolling mechanism to start synchronously and work in coordination; and is further configured to, in response to receiving the stop lithium supplement signal from the controller, control the pole piece unwinding mechanism, the lithium strip unwinding mechanism, and the rolling mechanism to stop working synchronously. The provided control circuit can improve the automation degree of the lithium supplement system for the pole piece, thereby accelerating the rolling of the pole piece and the lithium strip.

[0022] In some embodiments, there is an overlapping part between the terminal end of the first lithium strip and the starting end of the second lithium strip; along the length direction of the first lithium strip, the size of the overlapping part is 6 mm to 10 mm. In this way, the connection between the first lithium strip and the second lithium strip can be made more firm while occupying less of the first lithium strip and the second lithium strip. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the following will briefly introduce the drawings required for the description of the embodiments. Obviously, the following drawings are only some embodiments of this application. For those of ordinary skill in the art, without creative efforts, other drawings can also be obtained based on these drawings.

[0024] Figure 1 It is a schematic structural diagram of a splicing device provided by this application;

[0025] Figure 2 It is a schematic structural diagram of another splicing device provided by this application;

[0026] Figure 3 It is a physical diagram of connecting the first lithium strip and the second lithium strip using another splicing device provided by this application;

[0027] Figure 4 It is a schematic structural diagram of another splicing device provided by the present application;

[0028] Figure 5 is Figure 4 a sectional view of;

[0029] Figure 6 It is a schematic structural diagram of another splicing device provided by the present application;

[0030] Figure 7 is Figure 6 the front view of;

[0031] Figure 8 is Figure 6 the left view of;

[0032] Figure 9 It is a functional module diagram of a splicing device provided by the present application;

[0033] Figure 10 It is a functional module diagram of another splicing device provided by the present application;

[0034] Figure 11 It is a schematic structural diagram of the lithium supplement system for the electrode sheet provided by the present application;

[0035] Figure 12 is Figure 11 the functional module diagram of the lithium supplement system for the electrode sheet provided by;

[0036] In the figure: 1. Splicing device; 10. Controller; 111. Rolling device; 112. Cutting device; 12. Splicing component; 12a. Welding mechanism; 12b. Extrusion mechanism; 121. Base; 122. Pressing mechanism; 123. First fixing mechanism; 124. Second fixing mechanism; 125. Second protective film; 126. First protective film; 13. Housing; 131. Operation port; 132. Inlet; 133. Outlet; 14. Cover body; 15. Locking mechanism; 16. Switch; 17. Alarm mechanism; 18. First limiting mechanism; 191. First detection mechanism; 192. Second detection mechanism; 193. Third detection mechanism; 194. Fourth detection mechanism; 2. First lithium strip; 3. Second lithium strip; 4. Lithium strip unwinding mechanism; 5. Electrode sheet unwinding mechanism; 6. Rolling mechanism; 7. Control circuit. Detailed implementation manners

[0037] Next, in combination with the accompanying drawings of the specification, the solutions of the embodiments of the present application will be described in detail.

[0038] In the following description, specific details such as specific system structures, interfaces, and technologies are presented for the purpose of illustration rather than limitation, so as to thoroughly understand the present application.

[0039] The technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings in the embodiments of the present application. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present application, rather than all the embodiments. All other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art based on the embodiments of the present application without creative efforts shall fall within the protection scope of the present application.

[0040] The terms "first", "second", and "third" in the present application are only used for descriptive purposes and cannot be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the quantity of the indicated technical features. Thus, features defined with "first", "second", and "third" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of such features. In the description of the present application, the meaning of "a plurality" is at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise specifically defined. All directional indications (such as up, down, left, right, front, back...) in the embodiments of the present application are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement conditions between components in a specific posture (as shown in the accompanying drawings). If the specific posture changes, the directional indications will also change accordingly. In addition, 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 optionally further includes steps or units not listed, or optionally further includes other steps or units inherent to these processes, methods, products, or devices.

[0041] Referring to "embodiments" herein means that specific features, structures, or characteristics described in connection with the embodiments can be included in at least one embodiment of the present application. The phrase appears in various places in the specification and does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it an independent or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. Those skilled in the art will explicitly and implicitly understand that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0042] In the related art, during the calendering process of a lithium supplement winding device (abbreviated as LPD machine, also known as a pole piece lithium supplement system), a pole piece and a lithium strip can be rolled into a whole along the thickness direction of the pole piece (or the thickness direction of the lithium strip). When used in a lithium battery as a whole, it can supplement the consumed lithium ions in the lithium battery. Among them, when the old lithium strip is used up, the old lithium strip is removed and a new lithium strip is replaced, so that the new lithium strip and the pole piece are rolled into a whole. However, after temporarily connecting the new lithium strip and the old lithium strip manually and then rolling it with the pole piece, the operation is difficult and time-consuming (i.e., the operation time is long).

[0043] To solve the problems of great operation difficulty and long time consumption in temporarily connecting a new lithium strip and an old lithium strip manually. An embodiment of the present disclosure provides a splicing device. Refer to Figures 1 - 10 , the splicing device may include a splicing component 12 and a controller 10. The controller 10 is electrically connected to the splicing component 12, and the controller 10 is configured to control the splicing component 12 to connect the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 to the start portion of the second lithium strip 3; wherein, both the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3 have a start portion and an end portion. In this way, when replacing the lithium strip, the controller 10 is used to control the splicing component 12, and the splicing component 12 connects the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 to the start portion of the second lithium strip 3 into a whole (that is, there is no disconnected part between them); thus solving the problems of great operation difficulty and long time consumption in the related art by manual operation. Among them, the above-mentioned first lithium strip 2 can be understood as the old lithium strip, and the second lithium strip 3 can be understood as the new lithium strip.

[0044] In addition, after the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3 are connected by the splicing device, the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3 can be connected into a whole (that is, there is no disconnected part between them); when this whole is rolled with the pole piece, the lithium strip can be rolled on the surface of the pole piece, thus overcoming the part where the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3 are not connected (that is, not fully connected, there are gaps); furthermore, when the connected lithium strip is rolled with the pole piece, the lithium strip can be rolled on the surface of the pole piece; then, when this pole piece is used in a lithium battery, more lithium ions can be ionized during the charge and discharge process of the lithium battery.

[0045] Exemplarily, the lithium strip may have opposite upper and lower surfaces, as well as a start side surface and an end side surface. The start side surface is located between the upper and lower surfaces and is connected to the upper and lower surfaces. The end side surface is located between the upper and lower surfaces and is connected to the upper and lower surfaces. The end portion of the lithium strip (such as the first lithium strip 2, or the second lithium strip 3) can be understood as the end side surface (or end surface) of the lithium strip, and the end portion of the lithium strip can also be understood as the part of the upper and lower surfaces of the lithium strip close to the end side surface (or end surface). The understanding of the start portion of the lithium strip (such as the first lithium strip 2, or the second lithium strip 3) can refer to the relevant description of the end portion of the lithium strip above.

[0046] The splicing component 12 connecting the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 to the start portion of the second lithium strip 3 can be understood as Figure 1 shown that the splicing component 12 connects the end side surface of the first lithium strip 2 to the start side surface of the second lithium strip 3; it can also be understood as Figure 2 shown that the splicing component 12 connects the upper surface (or lower surface) of the first lithium strip 2 close to the end side surface to the lower surface (or upper surface) of the second lithium strip 3 close to the start side surface.

[0047] Exemplarily, the controller 10 can be a central processing unit (CPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, discrete hardware components, etc.

[0048] In some examples, the splicing device further includes a power supply, which is electrically connected to the splicing component 12 and the controller 10. Among them, the power supply can also be electrically connected to the electronic devices of the splicing device described below. In other examples, the splicing component 12, the controller 10, and the electronic devices in the splicing device can also be electrically connected to the power supply in the following anode lithium supplementing system.

[0049] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the splicing component 12 includes a welding mechanism 12a or an extrusion mechanism 12b. The welding mechanism 12a is configured to weld and connect the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 and the start portion of the second lithium strip 3. The extrusion mechanism 12b is configured to extrude and connect the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 and the start portion of the second lithium strip 3. In this way, the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3 are connected by welding or extrusion.

[0050] Exemplarily, the splicing component 12 can be a structure capable of connecting the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3.

[0051] In some examples, referring to Figure 1 , the splicing component 12 can be a welding mechanism 12a. For example, the welding mechanism 12a can be an ultrasonic welding mechanism 12a, a laser welding mechanism 12a, etc. The welding mechanism 12a welds and connects the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 and the start portion of the second lithium strip 3; for example, the end face (or end side face) of the first lithium strip 2 and the start face (start side face) of the second lithium strip 3 can be welded and connected by using the welding mechanism 12a; that is, the side faces of the two are welded. Also for example, the upper surface (or lower surface) of the overlapping first lithium strip 2 and the lower surface (or upper surface) of the second lithium strip 3 can be welded and connected by using the welding mechanism 12a; that is, the surfaces of the two are welded. When welding, lithium (such as liquid lithium, solid lithium, molten lithium, etc.) can be added between the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3, so as to improve the firmness of the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3 without loss of the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3.

[0052] In other examples, referring to Figure 2, the splicing component 12 can be an extrusion mechanism 12b. The extrusion mechanism 12b squeezes and connects the end part of the first lithium strip 2 and the starting end part of the second lithium strip 3; for example, using a pressure of 1000KG to 2000KG (such as 1000KG, 1100KG, 1200KG, 1300KG, 1400KG, 1500KG, 1600KG, 1800KG, 2000KG, etc.) generated by the extrusion mechanism 12b, the upper surface (or lower surface) of the overlapping first lithium strip 2 and the lower surface (or upper surface) of the second lithium strip 3 are squeezed and connected as Figure 3 shown in the overall. The extrusion mechanism 12b will be described in detail below.

[0053] In some embodiments, continue to refer to Figure 2 , the splicing component 12 includes an extrusion mechanism 12b. The extrusion mechanism 12b includes a base 121 and a pressing mechanism 122. The pressing mechanism 122 is electrically connected to the controller 10. Among them, the controller 10 is configured to control the pressing mechanism 122 to approach or move away from the base 121. In this way, the end part of the first lithium strip 2 and the starting end part of the second lithium strip 3 are placed on the base 121, and the controller 10 is used to control the pressing mechanism 122 to move towards the base 121, and the end part of the first lithium strip 2 and the starting end part of the second lithium strip 3 are squeezed and connected by the cooperation of the pressing mechanism 122 and the base 121.

[0054] Exemplarily, the pressing mechanism 122 can include the structure of electrical components. In some examples, the pressing mechanism 122 can include a telescopic mechanism and a pressing piece; the pressing piece is fixed on the telescopic end of the telescopic mechanism; when the telescopic mechanism expands and contracts, it can drive the pressing piece to move towards the side close to the base 121 or away from the side of the base 121; the pressing piece and the base 121 cooperate to squeeze and connect the end part of the first lithium strip 2 and the starting end part of the second lithium strip 3. The pressing piece has a first surface, and the first surface of the pressing piece is the surface closest to the base 121 in the pressing piece and is parallel to the plane where the base 121 is located. For example, the pressing piece can be a cuboid, a cube (such as the S-shaped cuboid shown in Figure 7 ) etc. The telescopic mechanism can be a pneumatic telescopic mechanism, a hydraulic telescopic mechanism, an electric push rod, a ring-shaped telescopic structure shown in Figure 7 etc. The telescopic mechanism is connected to the controller 10, so that the above telescopic mechanism can be controlled to expand and contract through the controller 10.

[0055] Exemplarily, there is a facing area on the base 121, and the pressing mechanism 122 faces the facing area. In this way, the end part of the first lithium strip 2 and the starting end part of the second lithium strip 3 are placed in the facing area of the base 121, and through the controller 10, the pressing mechanism 122 can squeeze and connect the end part of the first lithium strip 2 and the starting end part of the second lithium strip 3.

[0056] In some embodiments, with continued reference to Figure 2 , the pressing mechanism 12b further includes a first protective film 126 and / or a second protective film 125. The first protective film 126 is disposed on at least a part of the surface of the base 121 close to the pressing mechanism 122. The second protective film 125 is disposed on the surface of the pressing mechanism 122 close to the base 121.

[0057] The provided first protective film 126 can reduce the damage (such as surface scratches, indentations, etc.) of the base 121 to the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3; the provided second protective film 125 can reduce the damage (such as surface scratches, indentations, etc.) of the pressing mechanism 122 to the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3.

[0058] In some examples, the material of the first protective film 126 can be resin, rubber, etc.; the resin can be thermoplastic polyester, such as polyethylene terephthalate (abbreviated as PET). The material of the second protective film 125 can be resin, rubber, etc.; the resin can be thermoplastic polyester, such as polyethylene terephthalate (abbreviated as PET).

[0059] Exemplarily, the pressing mechanism 12b further includes a first protective film 126. The first protective film 126 is disposed on at least a part of the surface of the base 121 close to the pressing mechanism 122. For example, the first protective film 126 is disposed on the facing area of the base 121; or for example, the first protective film 126 is disposed on the facing area of the base 121 and outside the facing area of the base 121. Also exemplarily, the pressing mechanism 12b further includes a second protective film 125. The second protective film 125 is disposed on the surface of the pressing mechanism 122 close to the base 121. Also exemplarily, the pressing mechanism 12b further includes a first protective film 126 and a second protective film 125. The first protective film 126 is disposed on at least a part of the surface of the base 121 close to the pressing mechanism 122. The second protective film 125 is disposed on the surface of the pressing mechanism 122 close to the base 121.

[0060] In some embodiments, the splicing device further includes a first limiting mechanism 18. The first limiting mechanism 18 is electrically connected to the controller 10; the first limiting mechanism 18 is configured to be located on the path where the pressing mechanism 122 approaches the base 121, or to move away from the path where the pressing mechanism 122 approaches the base 121. Among them, the controller 10 is configured to, in response to receiving a connection start signal, control the first limiting mechanism 18 to move away from the path where the pressing mechanism 122 approaches the base 121; and, in response to receiving a connection completion signal, control the first limiting mechanism 18 to move to the path where the pressing mechanism 122 approaches the base 121. In this way, in response to receiving a connection completion signal, the controller 10 controls the first limiting mechanism 18 to be located on the path of the pressing mechanism 122 towards the base 121, so that the first limiting mechanism 18 can prevent the pressing mechanism 122 from moving towards the base 121, thereby preventing the splicing assembly 12 from connecting the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3, and avoiding accidentally triggering the splicing assembly 12 and causing safety accidents. In response to receiving a connection start signal, the controller 10 controls the first limiting mechanism 18 to move away from the path of the pressing mechanism 122 towards the base 121, so that the splicing assembly 12 can move towards the base 121, thereby connecting the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3.

[0061] The first limiting mechanism 18 can be a telescopic mechanism, and the telescopic mechanism can be a hydraulic telescopic mechanism, a pneumatic telescopic mechanism, an electric push rod, etc.

[0062] The connection start signal can be the signal received by the controller 10 when the cover body 14 and the housing 13 are locked as described below; it can also be the signal received by the controller 10 when the anti-extrusion member is in a preset position as described below. The connection completion signal can be the signal received by the controller 10 when the cover body 14 and the housing 13 are not locked as described below; it can also be the signal received by the controller 10 when the anti-extrusion member is not in the preset position as described below.

[0063] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 4 - 8 , the splicing device further includes a housing 13 and a cover body 14. The housing 13 has an operation port 131, and an inlet 132 and an outlet 133 which are oppositely arranged; the operation port 131 is configured to expose the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 and the start portion of the second lithium strip 3; when the splicing device is splicing, the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 passes through the outlet 133 and is located inside the housing 13; the start portion of the second lithium strip 3 passes through the inlet 132 and is located inside the housing 13. The splicing assembly 12 is arranged inside the housing 13. The cover body 14 is movably arranged on the housing 13 and is configured to cover or expose the operation port 131. In this way, the provided housing 13 and cover body 14 can play a protective role. The operation port 131 facilitates the operation of the staff, such as aligning the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3; or removing the connecting portion on the first lithium strip 2, etc.

[0064] Exemplarily, referring to Figure 4 and Figure 5 , the housing 13 may include opposite bottom and top plates, opposite first and second side plates, and opposite third and fourth side plates; the first, second, third, and fourth side plates are all located between the bottom and top plates and are connected to both the bottom and top plates. Among them, the operation port 131 may be located on the top plate or the third side plate, and the inlet 132 and the outlet 133 may be located on the first side plate and the second side plate respectively.

[0065] Again exemplarily, referring to Figures 6 - 8 , the housing 13 may include opposite first and second frames, and opposite top and bottom frames; the first and second frames are fixed to the bottom frame, and the top plate is fixed to the first and second frames. The splicing assembly 12 is fixed on one side of the top plate close to the bottom frame. For example, the base 121 is fixed inside the bottom frame, and the pressing mechanism 122 is fixed on one side of the top plate close to the bottom frame. At this time, the cavity parts of the first and second frames can be referred to as the inlet 132 and the outlet 133. The space between the first and second frames can be referred to as the operation port 131. The cover 14 can be rotatably arranged on the first and second frames, so that the cover 14 can seal the space between the first and second frames.

[0066] The operation port 131 is configured to expose the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 and the starting end portion of the second lithium strip 3; it can be understood that through the operation port 131, the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 and the starting end portion of the second lithium strip 3 can be seen and operated. The cover 14 is movably arranged on the housing 13; for example, the cover 14 is rotatably arranged on the housing 13 (such as the top plate) through a hinge, a rotating shaft, etc. By opening the cover 14, the operation port 131 is exposed; by closing the cover 14, the operation port 131 is covered.

[0067] In some examples, for example, the installation part of the welding mechanism 12a can be arranged outside the housing 13, and the welding part of the welding mechanism 12a is located inside the housing 13. Again, for example, both the installation part and the welding part of the welding mechanism 12a can be arranged inside the housing 13. The welding part is used to weld the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3. In other examples, for example, the base 121 of the extrusion mechanism 12b can be arranged inside the housing 13 (or the bottom plate). Again, for example, the base 121 can be a part of the housing 13 (such as the bottom plate). The telescopic mechanism of the pressing mechanism 122 is arranged inside the housing 13, and the pressing piece is located inside the housing 13.

[0068] When the splicing device is splicing, the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 passes through the outlet 133 and is located inside the housing 13; the starting end portion of the second lithium strip 3 passes through the inlet 132 and is located inside the housing 13. It can be understood that during normal use, the first lithium strip 2 passes through both the inlet 132 and the outlet 133 and is rolled into a whole with the pole piece. When the first lithium strip 2 is almost used up (i.e., the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 passes from outside the housing 13 through the inlet 132 and is located inside the housing 13, and at this time the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 is located inside the housing 13 and the movement of the first lithium strip 2 is stopped), the starting end portion of the second lithium strip 3 is passed from outside the housing 13 through the inlet 132 into the housing 13.

[0069] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 9 , the splicing device further includes a locking mechanism 15, and the locking mechanism 15 is electrically connected to the controller 10; the locking mechanism 15 is configured to lock the cover body 14 and the housing 13. The controller 10 is configured to, in response to the locking mechanism 15 locking the cover body 14 and the housing 13, control the splicing assembly 12 to connect the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 and the starting end portion of the second lithium strip 3 or restore the control function of the splicing assembly 12. In this way, when the locking mechanism 15 is locked, the cover body 14 seals the operation port 131 of the housing 13, and the controller 10 will control the splicing assembly 12, thereby preventing the splicing device from accidentally injuring the staff. When the locking mechanism 15 is not locked, the cover body 14 can rotate and expose the operation port 131.

[0070] Exemplarily, the controller 10 is further configured to, in response to the locking mechanism 15 not locking the cover body 14 and the housing 13, control the splicing assembly 12 to stop operating or cut off the control function of the splicing assembly 12. In this way, when the locking mechanism 15 is not locked, the splicing assembly 12 does not act, so as not to cause injuries such as pressing to the operator, protecting the operator. For the sake of simplicity, in this article, controlling the splicing assembly 12 to start operating can be understood as controlling the splicing assembly 12 to connect the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 and the starting end portion of the second lithium strip 3. Controlling the splicing assembly 12 to stop operating in this article, for example, controlling the splicing assembly 12 not to connect the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 and the starting end portion of the second lithium strip 3.

[0071] The locking mechanism 15 can be a safety lock, an intelligent lock (such as an intelligent electronic lock, an intelligent physical interlock, an optical cross intelligent lock, etc.).

[0072] The controller 10 is configured to, in response to the locking mechanism 15 locking the cover body 14 and the housing 13, control the splicing assembly 12 to connect the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 and the starting end portion of the second lithium strip 3; it can be understood that when the locking mechanism 15 is locked, a corresponding locking signal is generated and sent to the controller 10, and the controller 10 controls the splicing assembly 12 to start operating according to the locking signal.

[0073] Exemplarily, the locking mechanism 15 may include a first lock body, a sensor, a trigger piece, and a second lock body. The sensor is disposed on the first lock body, and the sensor is connected to the controller 10; the trigger piece is disposed on the second lock body; the first lock body is mounted on the housing 13, and the second lock body is mounted on the cover body 14; when the first lock body is locked with the second lock body, the sensor cooperates with the trigger piece, so that the sensor generates a corresponding first induction signal and transmits it to the controller 10; the controller 10 controls the splicing assembly 12 to start operating according to the first induction signal. When the first lock body and the second lock body are not locked, the induction piece and the trigger piece are separated, so that the sensor generates a corresponding second induction signal and transmits it to the controller 10; the controller 10 controls the splicing assembly 12 to stop operating according to the second induction signal.

[0074] In some examples, the sensor may be a coil, and the trigger piece may be an iron core. The cooperation between the sensor and the trigger piece can be understood as the iron core being inserted into the coil; this causes the magnetism of the coil to increase and the current to increase; the first induction signal may be a magnetic signal (or it may also be a current signal). When the induction piece and the trigger piece are separated, the magnetism of the coil weakens and the current decreases; the second induction signal may be a magnetic signal (or it may also be a current signal).

[0075] The controller 10 is configured to restore the control function of the splicing assembly 12 in response to the locking mechanism 15 locking the cover body 14 and the housing 13; it can be understood that the locking mechanism 15 has the function of locking the housing 13 and the cover body 14, and also has the function of cutting off or conducting the splicing assembly 12 and the controller 10. That is, when the locking mechanism 15 is locked, the locking mechanism 15 also conducts the splicing assembly 12 and the controller 10, enabling the controller 10 to restore the ability to control the splicing assembly 12.

[0076] When the locking mechanism is locked, a corresponding locking signal is generated and transmitted to the controller 10, and the controller 10 controls the splicing assembly 12 to start operating or restores the control function.

[0077] Exemplarily, the locking mechanism 15 may include a first lock body, a sensor, a trigger piece, and a second lock body; the sensor is disposed on the first lock body; the sensor is connected to the controller 10 and also to the splicing assembly 12 (i.e., the controller 10, the sensor, and the splicing assembly 12 are connected in series); the trigger piece is disposed on the second lock body; the first lock body is mounted on the housing 13, and the second lock body is mounted on the cover body 14; when the first lock body is locked with the second lock body, the sensor cooperates with the trigger piece, so that the sensor conducts the controller 10 and the splicing assembly 12, thereby enabling the controller 10 to restore the control ability of the splicing assembly 12. When the first lock body and the second lock body are not locked, the induction piece and the trigger piece are separated, so that the sensor cuts off the controller 10 and the splicing assembly 12, thereby causing the controller 10 to lose the control ability of the splicing assembly 12.

[0078] In some examples, the inductor can be the trigger switch 16. The inductor cooperates with the trigger piece. It can be understood that the trigger piece presses the trigger switch 16, making the trigger switch 16 in the on state to conduct the circuit between the controller 10 and the splicing component 12, so that the controller 10 resumes the control ability over the splicing component 12. When the induction piece is separated from the trigger piece, the trigger switch 16 returns to the off state by its own elastic force to cut off the circuit between the controller 10 and the splicing component 12, so that the controller 10 loses the control ability over the splicing component 12.

[0079] In other examples, the inductor can be at least one of the switches 16 described below. Only when the states of all the switches 16 change will the controller 10 resume the control function over the splicing component 12.

[0080] In some embodiments, continue to refer to Figure 9 , the splicing device further includes at least one (such as one, or multiple) switch 16, and at least one switch 16 is electrically connected to the controller 10. The controller 10 is configured to control the splicing component 12 to connect the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 to the starting end portion of the second lithium strip 3 in response to the change of the states of all the switches 16. In this way, when the states of all the switches 16 are changed simultaneously, the controller 10 controls the splicing component 12 to start operating. The provided at least one switch 16 can enable the operator to operate the splicing device more safely.

[0081] All the switches 16 change their states to generate corresponding state change signals and transmit them to the controller 10, and the controller 10 controls the splicing component 12 to start operating.

[0082] Exemplarily, the switch 16 can be a switch 16 capable of sending signals, and this switch 16 can be a trigger switch 16 (also called a tactile switch 16). This switch 16 is connected to the controller 10 and not to the splicing component 12. When all these switches 16 are pressed and triggered, the states of all these switches 16 change, generating corresponding trigger signals and sending all the trigger signals to the controller 10. When the controller 10 receives all the trigger signals, it controls the splicing component 12 to start operating. When any one of the switches 16 is released, the released switch 16 returns to the initial state, generating a corresponding initial signal and sending it to the controller 10; the controller 10 controls the splicing component 12 to stop operating according to the at least one initial signal received.

[0083] Exemplarily, the switch 16 can be a switch 16 capable of cutting off or conducting functions. For example, the switch 16 can be a knife switch, an air switch 16, etc. The switch 16 is connected to the controller 10 and is also electrically connected to the splicing assembly 12; that is, the controller 10, at least one switch 16, and the splicing assembly 12 are connected in series. When all the switches 16 are closed and conducting, the circuit between the controller 10 and the splicing assembly 12 is conducted. At this time, the controller 10 can control the splicing assembly 12 to start operating. When at least one switch 16 is in the off state, the circuit between the controller 10 and the splicing assembly 12 is cut off. At this time, the controller 10 loses the control ability over the splicing assembly 12, and the splicing assembly 12 stops operating.

[0084] In some embodiments, the number of at least one switch 16 is two, and the distance between the two switches 16 is greater than or equal to 30 cm (for example, the distance between the two switches 16 can be 30 cm, 40 cm, 50 cm, 60 cm, 70 cm, 80 cm, 90 cm, 100 cm, 150 cm, 200 cm, etc.). In this way, the two switches 16 need to be triggered simultaneously by both hands to change the states of the two switches 16; thus, it can avoid the situation of accidentally touching one switch 16 and causing safety accidents, etc.

[0085] In some embodiments, continue to refer to Figure 9 , the splicing device further includes a first detection mechanism 191, an alarm mechanism 17, and an anti-squeezing member; both the first detection mechanism 191 and the alarm mechanism 17 are electrically connected to the controller 10; wherein, the controller 10 is configured to control the alarm mechanism 17 to give an alarm in response to the first detection mechanism 191 not detecting that the anti-squeezing member is in the preset position; and to control the alarm mechanism 17 to stop giving an alarm in response to detecting that the anti-squeezing member is in the preset position. In this way, through the cooperation of the first detection mechanism 191, the alarm mechanism 17, and the anti-squeezing member, the splicing device has an additional protection function, which can reduce safety accidents caused by accidentally touching and triggering the splicing device.

[0086] The alarm mechanism 17 can be at least one of a text alarm (such as a display screen), a voice alarm (such as a speaker), and a signal lamp alarm. For example, when the alarm mechanism 17 is a text alarm, the text alarm emits prompt text and the like. For example, when the alarm mechanism 17 is a voice alarm, the voice alarm emits prompt voice and the like. The preset position can be understood as the position where the anti-detection component is placed; for example, the preset position can be a part of the above-mentioned housing 13, or can also be a part of the base 121. The anti-extrusion component can be a structure that can be detected by the first detection mechanism 191. The first detection mechanism 191 can be a sensor (such as an infrared sensor), a camera, a barcode scanner, etc. When the anti-extrusion component is located at the preset position, the first detection mechanism 191 detects the anti-extrusion component, generates a corresponding first detection signal, and transmits it to the controller 10, and the controller 10 controls the splicing assembly 12 to start operating. For example, when the first detection mechanism 191 is a barcode scanner, a barcode is provided on the corresponding anti-extrusion component, and the barcode scanner can scan the barcode, generate a corresponding barcode signal (the first detection signal), and transmit it to the controller 10, and the controller 10 controls the alarm mechanism 17 to stop alarming. For example, when the first detection mechanism 191 is a camera, the camera can take a photo of the anti-extrusion component, generate a corresponding photo signal (the first detection signal), and transmit it to the controller 10, and the controller 10 controls the alarm mechanism 17 to stop alarming.

[0087] In a possible implementation manner, when the splicing device can include a locking mechanism, a first limiting mechanism 18, at least one switch 16, and an anti-extrusion component, the splicing device can have a quadruple protection function, so that the safety performance of the splicing device is higher. The quadruple protection function can be: when the anti-extrusion component is located at the preset position, the first detection mechanism 191 detects the anti-extrusion component, generates a corresponding first detection signal, and transmits it to the controller 10, and the controller 10 controls the alarm mechanism 17 to stop alarming; the locking mechanism locks, generates a corresponding locking signal, and transmits it to the controller 10; the first limiting mechanism 18 moves away from the pressing mechanism 122 along the path towards the base 121, generates a corresponding leaving signal, and transmits it to the controller 10; all the switches 16 change states, generate corresponding state change signals, and transmit them to the controller 10. The controller 10 controls the splicing assembly 12 to start operating according to the received locking signal, leaving signal, and state change signal in sequence.

[0088] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 10, the splicing device further includes a first fixing mechanism 123 and / or a second fixing mechanism 124. The first fixing mechanism 123 is configured to restrict the movement of the end portion of the first lithium strip 2; the second fixing mechanism 124 is configured to restrict the movement of the starting end portion of the second lithium strip 3. In this way, the provided first fixing mechanism 123 reduces the swaying of the first lithium strip 2, thereby facilitating the splicing of the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3. The provided second fixing mechanism 124 reduces the swaying of the second lithium strip 3, thereby facilitating the splicing of the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3.

[0089] The first fixing mechanism 123 can be a telescopic mechanism, a clamping mechanism, a magnetic mechanism, etc. For example, the telescopic mechanism can press the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 against the base 121. Also for example, the clamping mechanism can clamp the end portion of the first lithium strip 2. The second fixing mechanism 124 can be a telescopic mechanism, a clamping mechanism, a magnetic mechanism, etc. In some examples, the first fixing mechanism 123 and the second fixing mechanism 124 can be the same mechanism. For example, both are telescopic mechanisms, or both are clamping mechanisms.

[0090] Exemplarily, the splicing device further includes a first fixing mechanism 123, and the first fixing mechanism 123 is configured to restrict the movement of the end portion of the first lithium strip 2. Also exemplarily, the splicing device further includes a second fixing mechanism 124, and the second fixing mechanism 124 is configured to restrict the movement of the starting end portion of the second lithium strip 3. Also exemplarily, the splicing device further includes a first fixing mechanism 123 and a second fixing mechanism 124. The first fixing mechanism 123 is configured to restrict the movement of the end portion of the first lithium strip 2; the second fixing mechanism 124 is configured to restrict the movement of the starting end portion of the second lithium strip 3.

[0091] In some examples, the first fixing mechanism 123 can be installed in the housing 13 and be opposite to the base 121. In this way, the first lithium strip 2 can be fixed on the base 121 by using the first fixing mechanism 123. The second fixing mechanism 124 can be installed in the housing 13 and be opposite to the base 121. In this way, the second lithium strip 3 can be fixed on the base 121 by using the second fixing mechanism 124.

[0092] In some embodiments, continue to refer to Figure 10, the splicing device includes a first fixing mechanism 123; the splicing device further includes a second detection mechanism 192, and both the second detection mechanism 192 and the first fixing mechanism 123 are electrically connected to the controller 10; the controller 10 is configured to send a stop lithium replenishment signal in response to the second detection mechanism 192 detecting that the first lithium strip 2 roll is used up, and control the first fixing mechanism 123 to restrict the movement of the end portion of the first lithium strip 2. The provided second detection mechanism 192 can prevent the first lithium strip 2 from being used up (i.e., the first lithium strip 2 is completely spliced with the electrode sheet), so that the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 can be located in the housing 13, facilitating the splicing of the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3, and solving the problem that the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3 cannot be spliced.

[0093] The second detection mechanism 192 is configured to detect whether the first lithium strip 2 is used up. The second detection mechanism 192 can be a sensor (such as an infrared sensor), a camera, a barcode scanner, etc. For example, when the second detection mechanism 192 is a camera, the camera takes a photo of the end portion of the first lithium strip 2, generates corresponding photo information of the end portion of the first lithium strip 2, and transmits it to the controller 10, and the controller 10 controls the first fixing mechanism 123 to fix the end portion of the first lithium strip 2. Another example is when the second detection mechanism 192 is a barcode scanner, a barcode is provided on the end portion of the first lithium strip 2; the barcode scanner scans the barcode on the end portion of the first lithium strip 2, generates a corresponding barcode signal, and transmits it to the controller 10, and the controller 10 controls the first fixing mechanism 123 to fix the end portion of the first lithium strip 2.

[0094] Sending a stop lithium replenishment signal can cause the electrode sheet lithium replenishment system described below to stop operating, thus avoiding the problem that the rolling mechanism 6 will continue to drive the first lithium strip 2 to move.

[0095] In some embodiments, continue to refer to Figure 10 , the splicing device includes a second fixing mechanism 124; the splicing device further includes a third detection mechanism 193, and both the third detection mechanism 193 and the second fixing mechanism 124 are electrically connected to the controller 10; the controller 10 is configured to control the second fixing mechanism 124 to restrict the movement of the starting end portion of the second lithium strip 3 in response to the third detection mechanism 193 detecting that the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 is aligned with the starting end portion of the second lithium strip 3. The provided third detection mechanism 193 can detect the alignment of the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3, solve the problem of time-consuming manual alignment, thereby reducing the alignment time of the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3, facilitating the splicing of the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3, and improving the splicing efficiency of the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3.

[0096] The third detection mechanism 193 is configured to detect whether the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 is aligned with the start portion of the second lithium strip 3. The third detection mechanism 193 can be a sensor (such as an infrared sensor), a camera, etc. For example, when the third detection mechanism 193 is a camera, when the camera captures that the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 is aligned with the start portion of the second lithium strip 3, it generates a corresponding alignment photo signal and transmits it to the controller 10, and the controller 10 controls the second fixing mechanism 124 to fix the start portion of the second lithium strip 3.

[0097] When the dimension between the side surface of the first lithium strip 2 and the side surface of the second lithium strip 3 is between -1 mm and 1 mm along the width direction of the first lithium strip 2, it can be understood that the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3 are aligned.

[0098] In some embodiments, referring further to Figure 10 , the splicing device further includes a fourth detection mechanism 194, and the fourth detection mechanism 194 is electrically connected to the controller 10; the controller 10 is configured to control the first fixing mechanism 123 and the second fixing mechanism 124 to release the restriction in response to the fourth detection mechanism 194 detecting the completion of the connection between the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 and the start portion of the second lithium strip 3. The provided fourth detection mechanism 194 can detect the completion of the connection between the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 and the start portion of the second lithium strip 3 to solve the problem of time-consuming manual observation of the completion of the connection between the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3; after the first fixing mechanism 123 and the second fixing mechanism 124 release the restriction, it is convenient to roll the spliced first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3 together with the pole piece.

[0099] The fourth detection mechanism 194 is configured to detect whether the connection between the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 and the start portion of the second lithium strip 3 is completed. The fourth detection mechanism 194 can be a sensor (such as an infrared sensor), a camera, etc. For example, when the fourth detection mechanism 194 is a camera, when the camera captures that the connection between the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 and the start portion of the second lithium strip 3 is completed, it generates a corresponding photo signal of the completed connection and transmits it to the controller 10, and the controller 10 controls the first fixing mechanism 123 and the second fixing mechanism 124 to release the fixation.

[0100] Exemplarily, the controller 10 also sends a start lithium supplement signal, so that the control circuit 7 below controls the pole piece lithium supplement system to start working according to the received start lithium supplement signal.

[0101] In some embodiments, referring further to Figure 5 , the splicing device further includes a rolling device 111, and the rolling device 111 is configured to flatten the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 and / or the start portion of the second lithium strip 3. The rolling device 111 can flatten the lithium strip, which is convenient for the alignment and connection of the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3.

[0102] The rolling device 111 may include a roller and a pushing mechanism for pushing the roller. For example, the pushing mechanism is installed on the housing 13 and can push the roller to flatten the lithium strip.

[0103] Exemplarily, the splicing device further includes a rolling device 111 configured to flatten the end portion of the first lithium strip 2. Again exemplarily, the splicing device further includes a rolling device 111 configured to flatten the starting end portion of the second lithium strip 3. Again exemplarily, the splicing device further includes a rolling device 111 configured to flatten the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 and the starting end portion of the second lithium strip 3.

[0104] In some embodiments, referring further to Figure 5 , the splicing device further includes a cutting device 112 configured to cut off the portion of the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 where the connecting portion is pasted. The cutting device 112 is used to cut off the portion of the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 where the connecting portion is pasted to prevent this portion from being used in the lithium battery after being rolled with the pole piece.

[0105] The cutting device 112 may be a tool body. For example, the tool body may be a scissor structure, or for another example, the tool body may be a hot melt knife. The cutting device 112 may be installed inside the housing 13. The connecting portion may be a tape, double-sided tape, etc.; the connecting portion is used to temporarily paste the end portion of the lithium strip to form a loop so that the lithium strip can be wound into a roll, which is convenient for installation on the lithium strip unwinding mechanism 4 described below. When the lithium strip is almost used up, the loop is separated and the connecting portion is located on the end portion of the lithium strip.

[0106] Embodiments of the present disclosure also provide a pole piece lithium supplementing system. Referring to Figure 11 and Figure 12 , the pole piece lithium supplementing system includes a lithium strip unwinding mechanism 4, a pole piece unwinding mechanism 5, a rolling mechanism 6, and a splicing device 1. The lithium strip unwinding mechanism 4 is configured to replaceably install the first lithium strip 2 or the second lithium strip 3; both the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3 have a starting end portion and an end portion; the pole piece unwinding mechanism 5 is configured to install the pole piece; the rolling mechanism 6 is configured to squeeze and connect the pole piece and the lithium strip released by the lithium strip unwinding mechanism 4 along the thickness direction of the pole piece; the splicing device 1 is configured to connect the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 and the starting end portion of the second lithium strip 3; wherein, the splicing device 1 is located on the path of the released lithium strip from the lithium strip unwinding mechanism 4 to the rolling mechanism 6. In this way, the provided splicing device 1 can accelerate the splicing speed of the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3, thereby improving the splicing efficiency of the lithium strip and the pole piece.

[0107] The lithium strip unwinding mechanism 4 may include a first rotating shaft. Both the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3 may be wound lithium strips. The wound lithium strips are installed on the first rotating shaft to facilitate the release of the lithium strips. The lithium strip unwinding mechanism 4 is configured to replaceably install the first lithium strip 2 or the second lithium strip 3. It can be understood that when the first lithium strip 2 is almost used up, the first lithium strip 2 is removed from the lithium strip unwinding mechanism 4. The end portion of the first lithium strip 2 can be unfolded and the connecting portion can be removed. Then the second lithium strip 3 is installed on the lithium strip unwinding mechanism 4.

[0108] The electrode sheet unwinding mechanism 5 may include a second rotating shaft, and the electrode sheet may be a wound electrode sheet. The wound electrode sheet can be installed on the electrode sheet unwinding mechanism 5.

[0109] The rolling mechanism 6 may include double rollers, and the rotation directions of the double rollers are opposite. The electrode sheet and the released lithium strip pass between the double rollers, so that the double rollers squeeze and connect the electrode sheet and the released lithium strip into a whole along the thickness direction of the electrode sheet. This whole can be used in a lithium battery. Thus, during the charging and discharging process of the lithium battery, the lithium strip can supplement the consumed lithium ions.

[0110] The splicing device 1 is located on the path of the released lithium strip from the lithium strip unwinding mechanism 4 to the rolling mechanism 6. For example, the splicing device 1 is located between the lithium strip unwinding mechanism 4 and the rolling mechanism 6. The released lithium strip can be understood as the first lithium strip 2, the second lithium strip 3, or the overlapping part of the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3.

[0111] In some examples, the electrode sheet lithium supplementing system further includes a workbench, and the splicing device 1, the electrode sheet unwinding mechanism 5, the lithium strip unwinding mechanism 4, and the rolling mechanism 6 are all installed on the workbench.

[0112] In some embodiments, the electrode sheet lithium supplementing system further includes a control circuit 7. The control circuit 7 is electrically connected to the controller 10 of the splicing device 1, the electrode sheet unwinding mechanism 5, the lithium strip unwinding mechanism 4, and the rolling mechanism 6. The control circuit 7 is configured to control the electrode sheet unwinding mechanism 5, the lithium strip unwinding mechanism 4, and the rolling mechanism 6 to start synchronously and work in coordination in response to receiving the start lithium supplementing signal from the controller 10. The control circuit 7 is further configured to control the electrode sheet unwinding mechanism 5, the lithium strip unwinding mechanism 4, and the rolling mechanism 6 to stop working synchronously in response to receiving the stop lithium supplementing signal from the controller 10. The arranged control circuit 7 can improve the automation degree of the electrode sheet lithium supplementing system, thereby accelerating the rolling of the electrode sheet and the lithium strip.

[0113] The electrode unwinding mechanism 5 may include a first motor, the first motor is connected to a first rotating shaft, and the first motor can drive the first rotating shaft to rotate. The lithium strip unwinding mechanism 4 may include a second motor; the second motor is connected to a second rotating shaft, and the second motor can drive the second rotating shaft to rotate. The rolling mechanism 6 may include a third motor, the third motor is connected to a double drum, and the third motor can drive the double drum to rotate. The first motor, the second motor and the third motor are all electrically connected to the control circuit 7.

[0114] The control circuit 7 may be at least one of a central processing unit (CPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, and discrete hardware components. The control circuit 7 may further include other electronic components.

[0115] In some examples, the lithium supplementing system for electrodes further includes a power source, and the control circuit 7, the splicing device 1, the electrode unwinding mechanism 5, the lithium strip unwinding mechanism 4 and the rolling mechanism 6 are all electrically connected to the power source.

[0116] In some embodiments, there is an overlapping portion between the end portion of the first lithium strip 2 and the starting end portion of the second lithium strip 3; along the length direction of the first lithium strip 2, the size of the overlapping portion is 6 mm to 10 mm (such as 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, 10 mm, etc.). In this way, the connection between the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3 can be made more firm while occupying less of the first lithium strip 2 and the second lithium strip 3.

[0117] The above description is only the implementation manner of the present application, and does not limit the patent protection scope of the present application. Any equivalent structure or equivalent process transformation made by using the content of the specification and drawings of the present application, or directly or indirectly applied in other related technical fields, shall be equally included in the patent protection scope of the present application.

Claims

1. A splicing device, characterized in that, it includes: a splicing component; and, a controller, electrically connected to the splicing component and configured to control the splicing component to connect the end portion of the first lithium strip to the starting end portion of the second lithium strip; wherein, both the first lithium strip and the second lithium strip have a starting end portion and an end portion.

2. The splicing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, the splicing component includes: an extrusion mechanism configured to extrude and connect the end portion of the first lithium strip to the starting end portion of the second lithium strip; or, a welding mechanism configured to weld and connect the end portion of the first lithium strip to the starting end portion of the second lithium strip.

3. The splicing device according to claim 2, characterized in that, the splicing component includes an extrusion mechanism, and the extrusion mechanism includes: a base; and, a pressing mechanism, electrically connected to the controller; wherein, the controller is configured to control the pressing mechanism to approach or move away from the base.

4. The splicing device according to claim 3, characterized in that, the extrusion mechanism further includes: a first protective film disposed on at least a part of the surface of the base close to the pressing mechanism; and / or, a second protective film disposed on the surface of the pressing mechanism close to the base.

5. The splicing device according to claim 3, characterized in that, the splicing device further includes: a first limiting mechanism, electrically connected to the controller; the first limiting mechanism is configured to move onto or away from the path of the pressing mechanism approaching the base; wherein, the controller is configured to, in response to receiving a connection start signal, control the first limiting mechanism to move away from the path of the pressing mechanism approaching the base; and, in response to receiving a connection completion signal, control the first limiting mechanism to move onto the path of the pressing mechanism approaching the base.

6. The splicing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, the splicing device further includes: a housing having an operation opening, and an inlet and an outlet disposed opposite to each other; the operation opening is configured to expose the end portion of the first lithium strip and the starting end portion of the second lithium strip; when the splicing device is splicing, the end portion of the first lithium strip passes through the outlet and is located inside the housing; the starting end portion of the second lithium strip passes through the inlet and is located inside the housing; at least a part of the splicing component is disposed inside the housing; and, a cover body movably disposed on the housing and configured to cover or expose the operation opening.

7. The splicing device according to claim 6, characterized in that, the splicing device further includes: a locking mechanism, electrically connected to the controller; the locking mechanism is configured to lock the cover body and the housing; wherein, the controller is configured to, in response to the locking mechanism locking the cover body and the housing, control the splicing component to connect the end portion of the first lithium strip to the starting end portion of the second lithium strip or restore the control function of the splicing component.

8. The splicing device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The splicing device further includes: At least one switch, electrically connected to the controller; Wherein, the controller is configured to control the splicing assembly to connect the end portion of the first lithium strip to the starting end portion of the second lithium strip in response to a change in the states of all the switches.

9. The splicing device according to claim 8, wherein, The number of the at least one switch is two, and the distance between the two switches is greater than 30 cm.

10. The splicing device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The splicing device further includes: a first detection mechanism, an alarm mechanism, and an anti-extrusion member; both the first detection mechanism and the alarm mechanism are electrically connected to the controller; Wherein, the controller is configured to control the alarm mechanism to give an alarm in response to the first detection mechanism not detecting that the anti-extrusion member is in a preset position; and to control the alarm mechanism to stop giving an alarm in response to detecting that the anti-extrusion member is in the preset position.

11. The splicing device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The splicing device further includes: A first fixing mechanism, configured to restrict the movement of the end portion of the first lithium strip; and / or A second fixing mechanism, configured to restrict the movement of the starting end portion of the second lithium strip.

12. The splicing device according to claim 11, wherein, The splicing device includes the first fixing mechanism; the splicing device further includes: A second detection mechanism, both the second detection mechanism and the first fixing mechanism are electrically connected to the controller; the controller is configured to send a stop lithium replenishment signal in response to the second detection mechanism detecting that the first lithium strip roll is used up, and to control the first fixing mechanism to restrict the movement of the end portion of the first lithium strip.

13. The splicing device according to claim 12, wherein, The splicing device includes the second fixing mechanism; the splicing device further includes: A third detection mechanism, both the third detection mechanism and the second fixing mechanism are electrically connected to the controller; the controller is configured to control the second fixing mechanism to restrict the movement of the starting end portion of the second lithium strip in response to the third detection mechanism detecting that the end portion of the first lithium strip is aligned with the starting end portion of the second lithium strip.

14. The splicing device according to claim 13, wherein, The splicing device further includes: A fourth detection mechanism, electrically connected to the controller; the controller is configured to control the first fixing mechanism and the second fixing mechanism to release the restriction in response to the fourth detection mechanism detecting that the connection between the end portion of the first lithium strip and the starting end portion of the second lithium strip is completed.

15. The splicing device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The splicing device further includes: A rolling device, configured to flatten the end portion of the first lithium strip and / or the starting end portion of the second lithium strip.

16. The splicing device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The splicing device further includes: The cutting device is configured to cut off the part of the end portion of the first lithium strip where the connecting portion is pasted.

17. A pole piece lithium supplementing system, characterized in that, it includes: A lithium strip unwinding mechanism configured to replaceably mount a first lithium strip or a second lithium strip; Both the first lithium strip and the second lithium strip have a starting end portion and an end portion; A pole piece unwinding mechanism configured to mount a pole piece; A rolling mechanism configured to squeeze and connect the pole piece and the lithium strip released by the lithium strip unwinding mechanism in the thickness direction of the pole piece; and, The splicing device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, configured to connect the end portion of the first lithium strip and the starting end portion of the second lithium strip; wherein, the splicing device is located on the path of the released lithium strip from the lithium strip unwinding mechanism to the rolling mechanism.

18. The pole piece lithium supplementing system according to claim 17, characterized in that, it further includes: A control circuit electrically connected to the controller of the splicing device, the pole piece unwinding mechanism, the lithium strip unwinding mechanism, and the rolling mechanism; The control circuit is configured to, in response to receiving the start lithium supplementing signal from the controller, control the pole piece unwinding mechanism, the lithium strip unwinding mechanism, and the rolling mechanism to start synchronously and work in coordination; and is further configured to, in response to receiving the stop lithium supplementing signal from the controller, control the pole piece unwinding mechanism, the lithium strip unwinding mechanism, and the rolling mechanism to stop working synchronously.

19. The pole piece lithium supplementing system according to claim 17, characterized in that, There is an overlapping portion between the end portion of the first lithium strip and the starting end portion of the second lithium strip; in the length direction of the first lithium strip, the size of the overlapping portion is 6 mm to 10 mm.

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