Liquid injection equipment, liquid injection method and battery production system

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention provides liquid injection equipment, a liquid injection method and a battery production system. The liquid injection equipment comprises a liquid injection device, a gas-liquid supply device, a monitoring device and a control device. The liquid injection device comprises a liquid storage container and a liquid injection mechanism, the liquid storage container is communicated with the liquid injection mechanism, and the liquid injection mechanism is used for injecting electrolyte into the shell of the battery monomer. The gas-liquid supply device comprises a gas supply mechanism and a storage container which are communicated with each other, the storage container is communicated with the liquid injection device through a first pipeline, and the gas supply mechanism is used for introducing inert gas into the storage container so as to press electrolyte in the storage container into the liquid storage container through the first pipeline; the first pipeline is provided with a first valve used for controlling on-off of the first pipeline. The monitoring device is arranged on the first pipeline and used for monitoring whether inert gas enters the first pipeline or not. The first valve and the monitoring device are both connected with the control device, and the control device is used for controlling closing of the first valve according to inert gas entering the first pipeline. The reliability of the liquid injection equipment can be improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of batteries, and more particularly, to a liquid injection device, a liquid injection method, and a battery production system. Background Art

[0002] Battery cells are widely used in electronic devices, such as mobile phones, laptop computers, battery cars, electric vehicles, electric airplanes, electric ships, electric toy cars, electric toy ships, electric toy airplanes, and electric tools, etc.

[0003] During the production process of battery cells, a liquid injection device is usually required to inject electrolyte into the housing of the battery cell. How to improve the reliability of the liquid injection device is a research direction in battery technology. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present application provides a liquid injection device, a liquid injection method, and a battery production system, which can improve the reliability of the liquid injection device.

[0005] An embodiment of the present application provides a liquid injection device, including a liquid injection device, a gas-liquid supply device, a monitoring device, and a control device. The liquid injection device includes a liquid storage container and a liquid injection mechanism, the liquid storage container is communicated with the liquid injection mechanism, and the liquid injection mechanism is used to inject electrolyte into the housing of the battery cell. The gas-liquid supply device includes a gas supply mechanism and a storage container that are communicated, the storage container is communicated with the liquid injection device through a first pipeline, and the gas supply mechanism is used to introduce an inert gas into the storage container to press the electrolyte in the storage container into the liquid storage container through the first pipeline. A first valve for controlling its own on-off is provided on the first pipeline. The monitoring device is arranged on the first pipeline and is used to monitor whether the inert gas enters the first pipeline. Both the first valve and the monitoring device are connected to the control device, and the control device is used to control the closing of the first valve according to the entry of the inert gas into the first pipeline.

[0006] In the above technical solution, the liquid injection device of this embodiment is provided with a monitoring device, and the monitoring device is used to monitor whether the inert gas enters the first pipeline. When it is monitored that the inert gas enters the first pipeline, it proves that the electrolyte is almost used up or has been used up. The control device closes the first valve to cut off the transportation process of the electrolyte and the inert gas, reducing the risk of electrolyte corrosion of the equipment and causing a fire caused by the inert gas driving the electrolyte in the liquid storage container to splash out from the exhaust hole, and improving the reliability of the liquid injection device. In some embodiments, the monitoring device includes a separation membrane, an airbag, and a sensing element. The airbag is communicated with the first pipeline. The separation membrane is connected to the airbag and is used to block the electrolyte in the first pipeline from entering the airbag and allow the inert gas in the first pipeline to enter the airbag. The sensing element is used to monitor the deformation of the airbag and is connected to the control device. The control device is used to control the opening and closing of the first valve according to the deformation of the airbag.

[0007] In the above technical solution, the monitoring device is set to include a separation membrane, an airbag, and a sensing element. The inert gas enters the airbag through the separation membrane, and the sensing element senses the volume change of the airbag. Among them, the sensing element does not contact the electrolyte, so it will not be corroded by the electrolyte, has a long service life, and the signal transmission with the control device is relatively reliable.

[0008] In some embodiments, the monitoring device further includes a first container. The airbag is communicated with a first pipeline through the first container. The first container is used for the electrolyte to flow and accumulate inert gas when the inert gas enters. The separation membrane is arranged at the connection between the airbag and the first container.

[0009] In the above technical solution, the first container is provided to collect the inert gas faster, cut off the transportation process of the electrolyte and the inert gas, and reduce the corrosion of the electrolyte on the liquid storage container and the impact on the environment.

[0010] In some embodiments, the first container has two first openings. One of the first openings is communicated with the liquid storage container, and the other first opening is communicated with the storage container. The two first openings are located on opposite sides of the first container, and the separation membrane is located in the area between the two first openings.

[0011] In the above technical solution, it is not only convenient for the electrolyte to flow, but also convenient for the inert gas to enter the airbag.

[0012] In some embodiments, along the arrangement direction from one first opening to the other first opening, the flow cross-section of the first container first increases and then decreases, and the separation membrane is arranged at the maximum cross-section of the flow cross-section of the first container.

[0013] In the above technical solution, most of the inert gas will enter the airbag through the separation membrane at the maximum flow cross-section after entering the first container, which improves the speed of collecting the inert gas by the airbag, so that the deformation of the airbag can be monitored earlier, improves the response speed of the monitoring device, and further improves the reliability of the liquid injection device.

[0014] In some embodiments, the airbag is provided with a second valve, and the second valve is used to open or close the airbag.

[0015] In the above technical solution, a second valve is arranged on the airbag to facilitate the discharge of the inert gas in the airbag.

[0016] In some embodiments, the separation membrane includes a graphene reverse osmosis membrane or a ceramic membrane.

[0017] In the above technical solution, the separation membrane is set to include a graphene reverse osmosis membrane, and the graphene reverse osmosis membrane has high selectivity, high permeability, and high separation accuracy. The separation membrane is set to include a ceramic membrane, and the ceramic membrane has good chemical corrosion resistance and is easy to clean.

[0018] In some embodiments, the sensing element includes a pressure sensor or a distance sensor; and / or, the monitoring device further includes a frame body, the frame body is connected to the first container, and the sensing element is disposed on the frame body.

[0019] In the above technical solution, the sensing element is set to include a pressure sensor or a distance sensor. These two sensors are easy to install and can monitor the deformation of the airbag more accurately. By setting the frame body, the first container supports the sensing element to form an integral structure, which is convenient for installation.

[0020] In some embodiments, the liquid injection device further includes a combustible gas detection element, the combustible gas detection element is connected to the control device, the combustible gas detection element is used to monitor the concentration of combustible gas in the area where the liquid storage container is located, and the control device is used to control the opening and closing of the first valve according to the concentration of combustible gas.

[0021] In the above technical solution, by setting the combustible gas detection element to monitor the concentration of combustible gas formed by the evaporation of the electrolyte, it can be timely detected when the electrolyte is about to run out or has run out, adding an extra layer of protection and further improving the reliability of the liquid injection equipment.

[0022] In some embodiments, the liquid injection device further includes a switch, the switch is connected to the control device, and the control device is used to control the opening and closing of the first valve according to the signal of the switch.

[0023] In the above technical solution, when the operator observes that the electrolyte leaks from the exhaust hole, the first valve can be closed through the switch to cut off the conveying process, adding an extra layer of protection and further improving the reliability of the liquid injection equipment.

[0024] In some embodiments, the liquid injection equipment further includes an alarm component, and the alarm component is connected to the control device.

[0025] In the above technical solution, by setting the alarm component to alarm when the electrolyte is about to run out or has run out to notify the operator, so that the operator can replace the new storage container and handle the splashed electrolyte.

[0026] In some embodiments, the gas-liquid supply device includes an identification member, and the identification member is connected to the storage container; the liquid injection equipment further includes a reading device, the reading device is connected to the control device, the reading device is used to read the electrolyte type information corresponding to the identification member, and the control device is used to control the first pipeline to convey the electrolyte in the storage container when the electrolyte type information matches the electrolyte type currently required to be conveyed by the first pipeline.

[0027] In the above technical solution, by providing an identification member and a reading device, the reading device reads the electrolyte type information in the identification member, and the control device compares the electrolyte type information with the electrolyte type to be transported through the first pipeline, so as to determine whether the electrolyte type in the storage container is correct, thereby reducing the possibility of taking the wrong storage container and injecting the wrong electrolyte into the battery cell, and improving the production yield and production efficiency.

[0028] In some embodiments, the numbers of the gas-liquid supply device and the liquid injection device are each plural, each liquid injection device is connected to at least one gas-liquid supply device, at least some of the storage containers are provided with identification members, and the number of the reading devices is plural. The plural reading devices are respectively used to read the electrolyte type information recorded by at least some of the identification members.

[0029] In the above technical solution, the reading efficiency can be improved and the production efficiency can be accelerated.

[0030] In some embodiments, the identification member includes an identification code, and the identification code is at least one of a radio frequency identification code (RFID), a two-dimensional code, and a bar code.

[0031] In the above technical solution, by setting the identification code to include at least one of a radio frequency identification code (RFID), a two-dimensional code, and a bar code, the identification code can be easily recognized by the reading device.

[0032] In a second aspect, an embodiment of the present application further provides a liquid injection method, including: Injecting an electrolyte into the housing of a battery cell, the electrolyte being stored in a storage container; Introducing an inert gas into the storage container so that the electrolyte is transported to the liquid injection device through a first pipeline; When it is monitored that the inert gas enters the first pipeline, controlling a first valve on the first pipeline to close to cut off the transportation of the electrolyte.

[0033] In the above technical solution, when it is monitored that the inert gas enters the first pipeline, it proves that the electrolyte is almost used up or has been used up. Controlling the first valve to close cuts off the transportation processes of the electrolyte and the inert gas, reducing the risk of electrolyte corrosion of equipment and fire caused by the inert gas driving the electrolyte in the liquid injection device to splash out.

[0034] In some embodiments, when it is monitored that the inert gas enters the first pipeline, controlling the first valve on the first pipeline to close includes: when it is monitored that the inert gas in the first pipeline passes through a separation membrane and causes the airbag to deform, controlling the first valve to close. The separation membrane is used to block the electrolyte from entering the airbag, and the airbag is used to collect the inert gas passing through the separation membrane.

[0035] In the above technical solution, an airbag is used to collect inert gas, and the deformation of the airbag is convenient for monitoring, so as to facilitate timely detection of the entry of inert gas.

[0036] In a third aspect, an embodiment of the present application further provides a battery production system, including the above-mentioned liquid injection device or adopting the above-mentioned liquid injection method. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application, the following will briefly introduce the drawings required to be used in the embodiments of the present application. Obviously, the following described drawings are only some embodiments of the present application. For those of ordinary skill in the art, without creative efforts, other drawings can also be obtained according to the drawings.

[0038] Figure 1 A structural schematic diagram of a liquid injection device provided by some embodiments of the present application; Figure 2 A structural schematic diagram of a monitoring device in the liquid injection device provided by some embodiments of the present application; Figure 3 Another structural schematic diagram of the liquid injection device provided by some embodiments of the present application; Figure 4 For Figure 3 An enlarged view at A.

[0039] The reference numerals in the specific embodiments are as follows: 100, liquid injection device; 1, liquid injection device; 11, liquid storage container; 12, liquid injection mechanism; 13, combustible gas detection element; 14, switch; 15, exhaust hole; 2, gas-liquid supply device; 21, storage container; 26, gas supply mechanism; 24, identification member; 22, first pipeline; 23, first valve; 3, monitoring device; 31, first container; 311, cavity; 312, first opening; 32, separation membrane; 33, airbag; 332, second valve; 34, sensing element; 35, frame; 4, control device; 5, reading device. SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS

[0040] To make the objectives, technical solutions and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly described below with reference to the accompanying drawings in the embodiments of this application. Obviously, the described embodiments are some, but not all, of the embodiments of this application. All other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art based on the embodiments in this application without creative efforts shall fall within the scope of protection of this application.

[0041] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this application have the same meaning as commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the technical field to which this application belongs; the terms used in the description of this application in the specification are only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit this application; the terms "including" and "having" and any variations thereof in the specification and claims of this application and the above drawings are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. The terms "first", "second", etc. in the specification and claims of this application or the above drawings are used to distinguish different objects and not to describe a specific order or primary-secondary relationship.

[0042] Referring to "embodiments" in this application means that specific features, structures or characteristics described in connection with the embodiments can be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The phrase appears in various places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it an independent or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments.

[0043] In the description of this application, it should be noted that unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the terms "installed", "connected", "connected to", "attached to" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be directly connected, or indirectly connected through an intermediate medium, and it can be the communication inside two components. For those of ordinary skill in the art, the specific meanings of the above terms in this application can be understood according to specific circumstances.

[0044] The term "and / or" in this application is only a description of the association relationship of associated objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone. In addition, the character " / " in this application generally represents an "or" relationship between the associated objects before and after.

[0045] In the embodiments of this application, the same reference numerals represent the same components, and for the sake of brevity, in different embodiments, the detailed description of the same components is omitted. It should be understood that the thickness, length, width and other dimensions of various components shown in the drawings in the embodiments of this application, as well as the overall thickness, length, width and other dimensions of the integrated device are only for illustrative purposes and should not constitute any limitation to this application.

[0046] In this application, "a plurality of" means two or more (including two).

[0047] In this application, the battery cell may include a lithium-ion secondary battery cell, a lithium-ion primary battery cell, a lithium-sulfur battery cell, a sodium-lithium-ion battery cell, a sodium-ion battery cell, a magnesium-ion battery cell, etc., and the embodiments of this application do not limit this. The battery cell may be in a cylindrical shape, a flat shape, a cuboid shape or other shapes, etc., and the embodiments of this application do not limit this either.

[0048] The battery cell includes an electrode assembly and an electrolyte. The electrode assembly includes a positive electrode plate, a negative electrode plate and a separator. The battery cell mainly operates by the movement of metal ions between the positive electrode plate and the negative electrode plate. The positive electrode plate includes a positive electrode current collector and a positive electrode active material layer, and the positive electrode active material layer is coated on the surface of the positive electrode current collector; the positive electrode current collector includes a positive electrode coating area and a positive electrode tab connected to the positive electrode coating area. The positive electrode coating area is coated with the positive electrode active material layer, and the positive electrode tab is not coated with the positive electrode active material layer. Taking a lithium-ion battery cell as an example, the material of the positive electrode current collector may be aluminum, and the positive electrode active material layer includes a positive electrode active material, and the positive electrode active material may be lithium cobaltate, lithium iron phosphate, ternary lithium or lithium manganate, etc. The negative electrode plate includes a negative electrode current collector and a negative electrode active material layer, and the negative electrode active material layer is coated on the surface of the negative electrode current collector; the negative electrode current collector includes a negative electrode coating area and a negative electrode tab connected to the negative electrode coating area. The negative electrode coating area is coated with the negative electrode active material layer, and the negative electrode tab is not coated with the negative electrode active material layer. The material of the negative electrode current collector may be copper, and the negative electrode active material layer includes a negative electrode active material, and the negative electrode active material may be carbon or silicon, etc. The material of the separator may be PP (polypropylene) or PE (polyethylene), etc.

[0049] During the production process of the battery cell, a liquid injection device is required to inject the electrolyte into the housing. The liquid injection device includes an electrolyte tank for supplying the electrolyte and an electrolyte tank for liquid injection, and the two are connected. The electrolyte tank for supplying the electrolyte transports the electrolyte to the electrolyte tank for liquid injection through a pipeline, and the electrolyte tank for liquid injection then transports the electrolyte to the liquid injection mechanism, and the liquid injection mechanism injects the electrolyte into the housing. During this process, if the electrolyte in the electrolyte tank for liquid supply is about to run out, then a large amount of the inert gas used to push the electrolyte to flow therein will enter the electrolyte tank for liquid injection, and the inert gas drives the electrolyte in the electrolyte tank for liquid injection to splash out from the exhaust hole, corroding the equipment and posing a risk of fire.

[0050] In view of this, the present application provides a liquid injection device that uses a monitoring device to monitor whether an inert gas enters the first pipeline. When it is detected that the inert gas enters the first pipeline, it proves that the electrolyte is about to run out. The control device closes the first valve to cut off the transportation process of the electrolyte and the inert gas, reducing the risk of electrolyte corrosion of the device and fire caused by the splashing of the electrolyte driven by the inert gas.

[0051] Figure 1 It is a schematic structural diagram of a liquid injection device provided by some embodiments of the present application.

[0052] As Figure 1 shown, the present application provides a liquid injection device 100, which includes a liquid injection device 1, a gas-liquid supply device 2, a monitoring device 3, and a control device 4. The liquid injection device 1 includes a liquid storage container 11 and a liquid injection mechanism 12. The liquid storage container 11 is connected to the liquid injection mechanism 12, and the liquid injection mechanism 12 is used to inject electrolyte into the housing of the battery cell. The gas-liquid supply device 2 includes a gas supply mechanism 26 and a storage container 21 that are connected. The storage container 21 is connected to the liquid injection device 1 through a first pipeline 22. The gas supply mechanism 26 is used to introduce an inert gas into the storage container 21 to press the electrolyte in the storage container 21 into the liquid storage container 11 through the first pipeline 22. A first valve 23 for controlling its own on-off is provided on the first pipeline 22. The monitoring device 3 is arranged on the first pipeline 22 and is used to monitor whether the inert gas enters the first pipeline 22. Both the first valve 23 and the monitoring device 3 are connected to the control device 4, and the control device 4 is used to control the closing of the first valve 23 according to the entry of the inert gas into the first pipeline 22.

[0053] The liquid storage container 11 in this embodiment can be a liquid storage tank, a liquid storage bottle, or a liquid storage box, etc.

[0054] Exemplarily, the liquid injection mechanism 12 includes a liquid injection head, a pump, and a connecting pipeline. The liquid injection head is used to inject electrolyte into the housing of the battery cell. The pump is used to extract the electrolyte from the liquid storage container 11 and transport it to the liquid injection head, such as a gear pump, a diaphragm pump, etc. The connecting pipeline connects the liquid storage container 11, the pump, and the liquid injection head and is used to transport the electrolyte.

[0055] The storage container 21 in this embodiment can be a liquid storage tank, a liquid storage bottle, or a liquid storage box, etc.

[0056] The inert gas in this embodiment can be nitrogen, helium, etc. Exemplarily, the inert gas is an inert compressed gas. The inert gas provides pressure for the electrolyte and drives the electrolyte to flow through the first pipeline 22 to the liquid storage container 11.

[0057] Exemplarily, the gas supply mechanism 26 may only include a pipeline for transporting inert gas; it may also include a gas storage tank storing inert gas. Alternatively, the gas supply mechanism 26 may further include a gas reaction mechanism that generates inert gas through a reaction and supplies it to the storage container 21 through a pipeline.

[0058] The first valve 23 of this embodiment may be a pneumatic valve, a hydraulic valve, or other types of valves for controlling the on / off of the first pipeline 22.

[0059] The monitoring device 3 of this embodiment is provided on the first pipeline 22, where "provided on" includes but is not limited to being arranged inside the first pipeline 22, outside the first pipeline 22, and having a direct connection relationship or an indirect connection relationship with the first pipeline 22, etc.

[0060] Along the flow direction of the electrolyte, the monitoring device 3 may be arranged upstream of the first valve 23 or downstream of it.

[0061] Exemplarily, the monitoring device 3 may include a pressure sensor arranged on the inner surface of the first pipeline 22. The pressure sensor is communicatively connected to the control device 4 and transmits pressure data to the control device 4. When the electrolyte in the storage container 21 is about to run out, the flow rate of the electrolyte in the first pipeline 22 becomes smaller, and inert gas enters the first pipeline 22. Therefore, the pressure sensor can monitor that the pressure in the first pipeline 22 becomes smaller. When the pressure drops below the threshold value, the control device 4 closes the first valve 23 to cut off the transportation process of the electrolyte and the inert gas. Among them, the threshold value can be determined according to the actual usage situation. The control device 4 of the embodiment of the present application may be a PLC controller, or it may be a host computer, a single-chip microcomputer, or other control circuits or control modules that can implement control functions, but is not limited thereto.

[0062] Exemplarily, the number of the liquid injection devices 1, the monitoring devices 3, and the gas-liquid supply devices 2 is multiple. The multiple liquid injection devices 1 and the multiple gas-liquid supply devices 2 are connected one by one, and the multiple monitoring devices 3 are respectively used to monitor whether inert gas enters the first pipeline 22 in the multiple first pipelines 22 to cut off the transportation process of the corresponding first pipeline 22.

[0063] By arranging the monitoring device 3, the liquid injection equipment 100 of this embodiment uses the monitoring device 3 to monitor whether inert gas enters the first pipeline 22. When it is monitored that inert gas enters the first pipeline 22, it proves that the electrolyte is almost used up or has been used up. The control device 4 closes the first valve 23 to cut off the transportation process of the electrolyte and the inert gas, reducing the risk of the electrolyte corroding the equipment and causing a fire splashed out from the exhaust hole 15 by the inert gas driving the electrolyte in the liquid storage container 11, and improving the reliability of the liquid injection equipment 100.

[0064] Figure 2 Schematic structural diagram of the monitoring device in the liquid injection device provided for some embodiments of the present application.

[0065] Please refer to Figure 2 , in some embodiments, the monitoring device 3 includes a separation membrane 32, an airbag 33, and a sensing element 34. The airbag 33 is communicated with the first pipeline 22. The separation membrane 32 is connected to the airbag 33 and is used to block the electrolyte in the first pipeline 22 from entering the airbag 33, and to allow the inert gas in the first pipeline 22 to enter the airbag 33. The sensing element 34 is used to monitor the deformation of the airbag 33 and is connected to the control device 4. The control device 4 is used to control the opening and closing of the first valve 23 according to the deformation of the airbag 33.

[0066] Exemplarily, the pore size range of the separation membrane 32 is 0.3 nm - 1 nm.

[0067] Exemplarily, the separation membrane 32 may include a carbon nanotube membrane, a polymer membrane, a composite nano membrane, etc.

[0068] The airbag 33 in the embodiment of the present application is made of a material with a certain elasticity. Herein, having elasticity means that the airbag 33 can generate deformation under the action of an external force and can recover at least part of the deformation after the external force is withdrawn, and its deformation can be monitored by the sensing element 34. Among them, the airbag 33 can generate deformation in one direction or in multiple directions.

[0069] Exemplarily, the airbag 33 can be made of a corrosion-resistant material. Optionally, the airbag 33 is made of stainless steel or polytetrafluoroethylene material.

[0070] Exemplarily, the separation membrane 32 covers the opening of the airbag 33.

[0071] The separation membrane 32 of this embodiment can directly cover the opening of the first pipeline 22, that is, the separation membrane 32 is arranged at the connection between the airbag 33 and the first pipeline 22.

[0072] The sensing element 34 and the control device 4 in this embodiment can be connected by wire communication or wireless communication.

[0073] The sensing element 34 in this embodiment is used to monitor the deformation of the airbag 33. Exemplarily, the sensing element 34 can be a magnetic force sensor. A magnetic element that can be sensed by the magnetic force sensor is provided on the airbag 33. When the airbag 33 bulges due to the filling of inert gas, the distance between the magnetic force sensor and the magnetic element changes, and the magnetic force sensor can monitor the change of the magnetic field. The control device 4 controls the closing of the first valve 23 according to the change of the magnetic field.

[0074] The monitoring device 3 is set to include a separation membrane 32, an airbag 33, and a sensing element 34. The inert gas enters the airbag 33 through the separation membrane 32, and the sensing element 34 senses the volume change of the airbag 33. Among them, the sensing element 34 does not come into contact with the electrolyte solution, so it will not be corroded by the electrolyte solution, has a long service life, and the signal transmission with the control device 4 is relatively reliable.

[0075] In some embodiments, the monitoring device 3 further includes a first container 31. The airbag 33 is communicated with the first pipeline 22 through the first container 31. The first container 31 is used for the electrolyte solution to flow and accumulate the inert gas when the inert gas enters. The separation membrane 32 is arranged at the connection between the airbag 33 and the first container 31.

[0076] In this embodiment, the first container 31 has a cavity 311. The cavity 311 and the first pipeline 22 can be connected in series or in parallel. Optionally, the first container 31 is connected in series with the first pipeline 22.

[0077] In the embodiment of the present application, the part of the first container 31 provided with the cavity 311 can be in the shape of a cuboid or an olive ball.

[0078] Exemplarily, along the flowing direction of the electrolyte solution, the flow cross-section of the first container 31 is larger than that of the pipeline directly communicated with it to accumulate the inert gas.

[0079] In this embodiment, the separation membrane 32 is arranged at the connection between the airbag 33 and the first container 31. Under the action of the separation membrane 32, the inert gas enters the airbag 33 and the electrolyte solution is blocked.

[0080] In this embodiment, there may be no other components between the airbag 33 and the first container 31 except the separation membrane 32, or they can be indirectly communicated through other components. The separation membrane 32 can be arranged on the first container 31, the airbag 33 or other components.

[0081] Optionally, the airbag 33 has a folding structure. The folding structure is folded along the direction away from the first container 31 and is used to generate deformation in the direction away from the first container 31. The sensing element 34 is arranged on the side of the folding structure away from the first container 31. Such a setting is to better monitor the deformation of the airbag 33.

[0082] The first container 31 is provided to collect the inert gas faster, cut off the conveying process of the electrolyte solution and the inert gas, and reduce the corrosion of the storage container 11 by the electrolyte solution and the impact on the environment.

[0083] In some embodiments, the first container 31 is directly arranged on the first pipeline 22.

[0084] The first container 31 of this embodiment can be directly disposed at one end of the first pipeline 22 or directly in the middle of the first pipeline 22, dividing the first pipeline 22 into two parts.

[0085] The first container 31 is directly disposed on the first pipeline 22 to collect inert gas more quickly.

[0086] In some embodiments, the first container 31 has two first openings 312. One of the first openings 312 communicates with the liquid storage container 11, and the other first opening 312 communicates with the storage container 21. The two first openings 312 are located on opposite sides of the first container 31, and the separation membrane 32 is located in the area between the two first openings 312.

[0087] Optionally, the airbag 33 is disposed on one side of the first container 31 in the arrangement direction of the two first openings 312.

[0088] With such an arrangement, it is not only convenient for the electrolyte to flow, but also convenient for inert gas to enter the airbag 33.

[0089] In some embodiments, along the arrangement direction from one first opening 312 to the other first opening 312, the flow cross-section of the first container 31 first increases and then decreases, and the separation membrane 32 is disposed at the maximum cross-section of the flow cross-section of the first container 31.

[0090] With such an arrangement, most of the inert gas will pass through the separation membrane 32 from the place with the largest flow cross-section into the airbag 33 after entering the first container 31, improving the speed of collecting inert gas by the airbag 33, so that the deformation of the airbag 33 can be detected as early as possible, improving the response speed of the monitoring device 3, and further improving the reliability of the liquid injection device 100.

[0091] In some embodiments, the airbag 33 is provided with a second valve 332, and the second valve 332 is used to open or close the airbag 33.

[0092] The second valve 332 of this embodiment can be manually switched or automatically switched. Optionally, the second valve 332 is connected to the control device 4 to achieve closing and opening.

[0093] Setting the second valve 332 on the airbag 33 facilitates discharging the inert gas in the airbag 33.

[0094] In some embodiments, the separation membrane 32 includes a graphene reverse osmosis membrane or a ceramic membrane.

[0095] The separation membrane 32 is set to include a graphene reverse osmosis membrane, and the graphene reverse osmosis membrane has high selectivity, high permeability, and relatively high separation accuracy.

[0096] The separation membrane 32 is provided to include a ceramic membrane, which has good chemical corrosion resistance and is easy to clean.

[0097] In some embodiments, the sensing element 34 includes a pressure sensor or a distance sensor; and / or, the monitoring device 3 further includes a frame 35, the frame 35 is connected to the first container 31, and the sensing element 34 is disposed on the frame 35.

[0098] Exemplarily, the sensing element 34 includes a pressure sensor, and the pressure sensor is used to monitor the pressure between the airbag 33 and the pressure sensor. The pressure sensor and the airbag 33 may be spaced apart or in contact with each other. When the pressure sensor detects that a pressure has been generated between the airbag 33 and the pressure sensor and the pressure is increasing or reaches a threshold value, the control device 4 controls the first valve 23 to close. Among them, the threshold value is determined according to the actual production situation.

[0099] Exemplarily, the sensing element 34 includes a distance sensor, and the distance sensor is used to monitor the distance from the airbag 33. The distance sensor and the airbag 33 are spaced apart. When the distance sensor detects that the distance from the airbag 33 becomes smaller and reaches a threshold value, the control device 4 controls the first valve 23 to close. Among them, the threshold value is determined according to the actual production situation.

[0100] In this embodiment, the frame 35 and the first container 31 are fixedly arranged, and the sensing element 34 is fixedly arranged on the frame 35.

[0101] The sensing element 34 is provided to include a pressure sensor or a distance sensor. These two sensors are easy to install and can accurately monitor the deformation of the airbag 33.

[0102] The frame 35 is provided so that the first container 31 supports the sensing element 34 to form an integral structure, thereby facilitating installation.

[0103] In some embodiments, the liquid injection device 1 further includes a combustible gas detection element 13, the combustible gas detection element 13 is connected to the control device 4, the combustible gas detection element 13 is used to monitor the concentration of combustible gas in the area where the liquid storage container 11 is located, and the control device 4 is used to control the opening and closing of the first valve 23 according to the concentration of combustible gas.

[0104] In this embodiment, the combustible gas detection element 13 and the control device 4 may be connected by a wired communication connection or a wireless communication connection.

[0105] Exemplarily, when the combustible gas detection element 13 detects that the concentration of combustible gas is greater than or equal to C1, the control device 4 controls the first valve 23 to close, where 2000 PPM ≤ C1 ≤ 4000 PPM.

[0106] When the electrolyte leaks, the electrolyte evaporates into flammable gas. When the concentration of the flammable gas reaches a certain level, the flammable gas detection element 13 can detect it. When the concentration of the flammable gas reaches the threshold value, the control device 4 controls the first valve 23 to close. Herein, the threshold value is determined according to the actual situation.

[0107] The flammable gas detection element 13 is provided to monitor the concentration of the flammable gas formed by the evaporation of the electrolyte, so that it can be timely monitored when the electrolyte is about to run out or has run out, adding an extra safeguard and further improving the reliability of the liquid injection device 100.

[0108] In some embodiments, the liquid injection device 1 also includes a switch 14. The switch 14 is connected to the control device 4, and the control device 4 is used to control the opening and closing of the first valve 23 according to the signal of the switch 14.

[0109] Between the switch 14 and the control device 4 in this embodiment, it can be a wired communication connection or a wireless communication connection.

[0110] The switch 14 in this embodiment can be structured as a button, a switch lever, a toggle switch, etc.

[0111] By providing the switch 14, when the operator observes that the electrolyte leaks from the exhaust hole 15, the first valve 23 can be closed through the switch 14 to cut off the conveying process, adding an extra safeguard and further improving the reliability of the liquid injection device 100.

[0112] In some embodiments, the liquid injection device 100 further includes an alarm component, and the alarm component is connected to the control device 4.

[0113] Between the alarm component and the control device 4 in this embodiment, it can be a wired communication connection or a wireless communication connection.

[0114] The alarm component in this embodiment can be a speaker or a warning light, etc.

[0115] The alarm component in this embodiment can be arranged in the area where the liquid injection device 1 is located, or in the area where the gas-liquid supply device 2 is located, or the alarm component can be arranged in both the area where the liquid injection device 1 is located and the area where the gas-liquid supply device 2 is located, so as to timely notify the operator to replace the new storage container 21.

[0116] Before, when or after the control device 4 controls the first valve 23 to close, the control device 4 controls the alarm component to turn on.

[0117] By providing the alarm component, it alarms to notify the operator when the electrolyte is about to run out or has run out, so that the operator can replace the new storage container 21 and handle the splashed electrolyte.

[0118] Figure 3Another structural schematic diagram of the liquid injection device provided by some embodiments of the present application; Figure 4 is Figure 3 An enlarged view at A.

[0119] Please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 In some embodiments, the gas-liquid supply device 2 includes an identification member 24, and the identification member 24 is connected to the storage container 21; the liquid injection device 100 further includes a reading device 5, the reading device 5 is connected to the control device 4, the reading device 5 is used to read the electrolyte type information corresponding to the identification member 24, and the control device 4 is used to control the first pipeline 22 to convey the electrolyte in the storage container 21 when the electrolyte type information matches the electrolyte type currently required to be conveyed by the first pipeline 22.

[0120] The identification member 24 of this embodiment is connected to the storage container 21, and can be connected to the storage container 21 by means such as bonding or threaded connection, for example.

[0121] The electrolyte type information corresponding to the identification member 24 of this embodiment, this information can directly be the specific type information of the electrolyte, or other information corresponding to the specific type information of the electrolyte. For example, it can be digital information, letter information or graphic information, etc.

[0122] The identification member 24 of this embodiment can be an RFID tag, an IC chip, a piece of paper, etc.

[0123] The reading device 5 of this embodiment can be an RFID reader, or can also be a card reader, a two-dimensional code scanner, a bar code scanner, etc.

[0124] Between the reading device 5 and the control device 4 of this embodiment can be a wired communication connection or a wireless communication connection.

[0125] Exemplarily, the control device 4 compares the electrolyte type information read by the reading device 5 with the type of electrolyte required for this production line. If they are the same, the first valve 23 can be opened to continue production. If they are different, the first valve 23 is kept closed and an alarm is given through the above-mentioned alarm component.

[0126] Optionally, the identification member 24 is used to record the information with identification effect corresponding to the electrolyte in the connected storage container 21, such as digital information, letter information or graphic information.

[0127] The number of the reading devices 5 in this embodiment can be one, and one reading device 5 reads multiple identification members 24. Specifically, it can be read by the operator holding it, or multiple identification members 24 can be read in turn by driving the reading device 5 to move through a driving component.

[0128] The control device 4 of this embodiment controls whether the first pipeline 22 conveys the electrolyte. The first valve 23 can be used to control whether the first pipeline 22 conveys the electrolyte, or other control valves provided on the first pipeline 22 can be used to control whether the first pipeline 22 conveys the electrolyte.

[0129] When the electrolyte in the storage container 21 is used up, it needs to be replaced by an operator. At this time, there is a possibility that the operator takes the wrong storage container 21, that is, installs a storage container 21 storing other types of electrolyte on this production line. Therefore, by providing the identification member 24 and the reading device 5, the reading device 5 reads the electrolyte type information in the identification member 24, and the control device 4 compares the electrolyte type information with the electrolyte type that the first pipeline 22 needs to convey, so as to judge whether the electrolyte type in the storage container 21 is correct, thereby reducing the possibility of injecting the wrong electrolyte into the battery cell due to taking the wrong storage container 21, and improving the production yield and production efficiency.

[0130] In some embodiments, the numbers of the gas-liquid supply device 2 and the liquid injection device 1 are respectively multiple. Each liquid injection device 1 is connected to at least one gas-liquid supply device 2. At least some of the storage containers 21 are provided with the identification member 24. The number of the reading devices 5 is multiple, and the multiple reading devices 5 are respectively used to read the electrolyte type information recorded by at least some of the identification members 24.

[0131] Each liquid injection device 1 of this embodiment is connected to at least one gas-liquid supply device 2, that is, one liquid injection device 1 can be connected to two or more gas-liquid supply devices 2. Optionally, each liquid injection device 1 is connected to one gas-liquid supply device 2. Specifically, the multiple liquid injection devices 1 are respectively used to inject different electrolytes. Therefore, when one liquid injection device 1 is connected to two or more gas-liquid supply devices 2, these gas-liquid supply devices 2 need to provide the same type of electrolyte.

[0132] Exemplarily, the number of the monitoring devices 3 is multiple, and the multiple monitoring devices 3 are used to monitor whether inert gas enters at least some of the first pipelines 22. Optionally, each first pipeline 22 is correspondingly provided with a monitoring device 3.

[0133] Optionally, the multiple reading devices 5 are arranged in one-to-one correspondence with at least some of all the identification members 24. Further optionally, each identification member 24 is correspondingly provided with a reading device 5.

[0134] With such a setting, the reading efficiency can be improved and the production efficiency can be accelerated.

[0135] In some embodiments, the identification member includes an identification code, and the identification code is at least one of a radio frequency identification code (RFID), a two-dimensional code, and a bar code.

[0136] Set the identification code to include at least one of radio frequency identification code (RFID), two-dimensional code, and bar code, and the identification code is easily recognized by the reading device 5.

[0137] The embodiment of the present application also provides a liquid injection method, including: S1. Inject electrolyte into the housing of the battery cell, and the electrolyte is stored in the storage container 21; S2. Introduce an inert gas into the storage container 21 so that the electrolyte is delivered to the liquid injection device 1 via the first pipeline 22; S3. When it is monitored that the inert gas enters the first pipeline 22, control the first valve 23 on the first pipeline 22 to close to cut off the delivery of the electrolyte.

[0138] In step S1 of this embodiment, the electrolyte is injected into the housing of the battery cell through the liquid injection mechanism 12.

[0139] The storage container 21 of this embodiment can be a liquid storage tank, a liquid storage bottle, or a liquid storage box, etc.

[0140] In step S2, the inert gas can be nitrogen, helium, etc. Exemplarily, the inert gas is an inert compressed gas. The inert gas provides pressure for the electrolyte and drives the electrolyte to flow through the first pipeline 22 to the liquid injection device 1.

[0141] In step S3, the first valve 23 can be a pneumatic valve, a hydraulic valve, or other types of valves, which are used to control the on-off of the first pipeline 22.

[0142] When it is monitored that the inert gas enters the first pipeline 22, it proves that the electrolyte is almost used up or has been used up. Control the first valve 23 to close to cut off the delivery process of the electrolyte and the inert gas, and reduce the risk of electrolyte corrosion of equipment and fire caused by the splashing of the electrolyte driven by the inert gas in the liquid injection device 1.

[0143] In some embodiments, step S3 includes: when it is monitored that the inert gas passing through the first pipeline 22 passes through the separation membrane 32 and causes the airbag 33 to deform, control the first valve 23 to close. The separation membrane 32 is used to block the electrolyte from entering the airbag 33, and the airbag 33 is used to collect the inert gas passing through the separation membrane 32.

[0144] The airbag 33 is used to collect the inert gas, and the deformation of the airbag 33 is convenient for monitoring, and it is convenient to know the entry situation of the inert gas in time.

[0145] The embodiment of the present application also provides a battery production system, including the above-mentioned liquid injection equipment 100 or adopting the above-mentioned liquid injection method.

[0146] Exemplarily, the battery production system further includes a liquid injection hole sealing device, which is located downstream of the liquid injection device 100 and is used to seal a sealing element on the liquid injection hole.

[0147] Exemplarily, the battery production system further includes an assembly device, which is located upstream of the liquid injection device 100. The assembly device is used to place an electrode assembly into a housing and weld an end cap to the housing.

[0148] Please refer to Figures 1-4, an embodiment of the present application provides a liquid injection device 100, which includes a liquid injection device 1, a gas-liquid supply device 2, a monitoring device 3, and a control device 4. The liquid injection device 1 includes a liquid storage container 11 and a liquid injection mechanism 12. The liquid storage container 11 is communicated with the liquid injection mechanism 12, and the liquid injection mechanism 12 is used to inject electrolyte into the housing of the battery cell. The gas-liquid supply device 2 includes a gas supply mechanism 26 and a storage container 21 that are communicated. The storage container 21 is communicated with the liquid injection device 1 through a first pipeline 22. The gas supply mechanism 26 is used to introduce inert gas into the storage container 21 to press the electrolyte in the storage container 21 into the liquid storage container 11 through the first pipeline 22. A first valve 23 for controlling its own on-off is provided on the first pipeline 22. The monitoring device 3 is arranged on the first pipeline 22 and is used to monitor whether the inert gas enters the first pipeline 22. Both the first valve 23 and the monitoring device 3 are connected to the control device 4, and the control device 4 is used to control the closing of the first valve 23 according to the entry of the inert gas into the first pipeline 22. The monitoring device 3 includes a separation membrane 32, an airbag 33, and a sensing element 34. The airbag 33 is communicated with the first pipeline 22. The separation membrane 32 is connected to the airbag 33 and is used to block the electrolyte in the first pipeline 22 from entering the airbag 33 and allow the inert gas in the first pipeline 22 to enter the airbag 33. The sensing element 34 is used to monitor the deformation of the airbag 33 and is connected to the control device 4. The control device 4 is used to control the opening and closing of the first valve 23 according to the deformation of the airbag 33. The monitoring device 3 further includes a first container 31. The airbag 33 is communicated with the first pipeline 22 through the first container 31. The first container 31 is used for the electrolyte to flow and accumulate inert gas when the inert gas enters. The separation membrane 32 is arranged at the communication between the airbag 33 and the first container 31. The first container 31 has two first openings 312. One of the first openings 312 is communicated with the liquid storage container 11, and the other first opening 312 is communicated with the storage container 21. The two first openings 312 are located on opposite sides of the first container 31, and the separation membrane 32 is located in the area between the two first openings 312. The airbag 33 is provided with a second valve 332, and the second valve 332 is used to open or close the airbag 33. The liquid injection device 1 further includes a combustible gas detection element 13. The combustible gas detection element 13 is connected to the control device 4. The combustible gas detection element 13 is used to monitor the concentration of combustible gas in the area where the liquid storage container 11 is located. The control device 4 is used to control the opening and closing of the first valve 23 according to the concentration of the combustible gas.

[0149] It should be noted that, without conflict, the embodiments in the present application and the features in the embodiments can be combined with each other.

[0150] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present application, rather than to limit them; although the present application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those of ordinary skill in the art should understand that they can still modify the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or perform equivalent replacements for some of the technical features, but these modifications or replacements do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application.

Claims

1. A liquid injection device, characterized in that: include: The liquid injection device comprises a liquid storage container and a liquid injection mechanism, wherein the liquid storage container is connected to the liquid injection mechanism, and the liquid injection mechanism is used to inject electrolyte into the housing of the battery cell; A gas-liquid supply device, comprising a gas supply mechanism and a storage container connected to each other, wherein the storage container is connected to the liquid injection device via a first pipeline, wherein the gas supply mechanism is used to pass an inert gas into the storage container so as to press the electrolyte in the storage container into the liquid storage container via the first pipeline, and wherein the first pipeline is provided with a first valve for controlling its own on-off; a monitoring device, the monitoring device being disposed in the first pipeline and being used to monitor whether the inert gas enters the first pipeline; A control device, wherein the first valve and the monitoring device are both connected to the control device, and the control device is used for controlling the closing of the first valve according to the inert gas entering the first pipeline.

2. The liquid injection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The monitoring device includes a separation membrane, an airbag and a sensing element. The airbag is connected to the first pipeline. The separation membrane is connected to the airbag and is used to block the electrolyte in the first pipeline from entering the airbag, and to allow the inert gas in the first pipeline to enter the airbag. The sensing element is used to monitor the deformation of the airbag and is connected to the control device. The control device is used to control the switch of the first valve according to the deformation of the airbag.

3. The liquid injection device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The monitoring device also includes a first container, the air bag is connected to the first pipeline through the first container, the first container is used for the electrolyte to flow and accumulate the inert gas when the inert gas enters, and the separation membrane is arranged at the connection between the air bag and the first container.

4. The liquid injection device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first container has two first openings, one of which is connected to the liquid storage container, and the other is connected to the storage container. The two first openings are located on opposite sides of the first container, and the separation membrane is located in the area between the two first openings.

5. The liquid injection device according to claim 4, characterized in that: Along the arrangement direction from one of the first openings to another of the first openings, the flow cross section of the first container increases first and then decreases, and the separation membrane is arranged at the maximum cross section of the flow cross section of the first container.

6. The liquid injection device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The airbag is provided with a second valve, and the second valve is used to open or close the airbag.

7. The liquid injection device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The separation membrane includes a graphene reverse osmosis membrane or a ceramic membrane.

8. The liquid injection device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The sensing element includes a pressure sensor or a distance sensor; and / or, The monitoring device further comprises a frame, the frame is connected to the first container, and the sensing element is arranged on the frame.

9. The liquid injection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The liquid injection device also includes a combustible gas detection element, which is connected to the control device and is used to monitor the concentration of combustible gas in the area where the liquid storage container is located. The control device is used to control the opening and closing of the first valve according to the concentration of the combustible gas.

10. The liquid injection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The liquid injection device also includes a switch, which is connected to the control device. The control device is used to control the switch of the first valve according to the signal of the switch.

11. The liquid injection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The liquid injection equipment also includes an alarm component, and the alarm component is connected to the control device.

12. The liquid injection device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that: The gas-liquid supply device includes an identification member, and the identification member is connected to the storage container; The liquid injection device further comprises a reading device, which is connected to the control device and is used to read the electrolyte type information corresponding to the identification element. The control device is used to control the first pipeline to transport the electrolyte in the storage container when the electrolyte type information matches the electrolyte type currently required to be transported by the first pipeline.

13. The liquid injection device according to claim 12, characterized in that: The number of the gas-liquid supply device and the liquid injection device is respectively multiple, each of the liquid injection devices is connected to at least one gas-liquid supply device, and at least part of the storage containers are provided with the identification member, There are multiple reading devices, and each of the multiple reading devices is used to read the electrolyte type information recorded by at least a portion of the identification members.

14. The liquid injection device according to claim 13, characterized in that: The identification element includes an identification code, and the identification code is at least one of a radio frequency identification code (RFID), a two-dimensional code, and a bar code.

15. A liquid injection method, characterized in that: include: injecting an electrolyte into a housing of a battery cell, wherein the electrolyte is stored in a storage container; Introducing an inert gas into the storage container so that the electrolyte is transported to the liquid injection device via the first pipeline; When it is detected that the inert gas enters the first pipeline, the first valve on the first pipeline is controlled to be closed to cut off the delivery of the electrolyte.

16. The liquid injection method according to claim 15, characterized in that: When the inert gas is detected to enter the first pipeline, controlling the first valve on the first pipeline to close comprises: When it is monitored that the inert gas in the first pipeline passes through the separation membrane and causes the airbag to deform, the first valve is controlled to be closed. The separation membrane is used to block the electrolyte from entering the airbag, and the airbag is used to collect the inert gas passing through the separation membrane.

17. A battery production system, characterized in that: It comprises the liquid injection device as described in any one of claims 1 to 14 or the liquid injection method as described in claim 15 or 16.

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