Liquid injection device, liquid injection method, and battery production system

Abstract

An embodiment of the present application provides a liquid injection device, a liquid injection method, and a battery production system. The liquid injection device includes 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. 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 the on-off of itself 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. The present application can improve the reliability of the liquid injection device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of batteries, and more specifically, 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, it is usually necessary to use a liquid injection device 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. 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 the on-off of itself 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 to monitor whether the inert gas enters the first pipeline by using the monitoring device. 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 the electrolyte corroding 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.

[0007] 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.

[0008] 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 come into contact with 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.

[0009] 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 the inert gas when the inert gas enters. The separation membrane is arranged at the connection between the airbag and the first container.

[0010] 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.

[0011] 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 the opposite sides of the first container, and the separation membrane is located in the area between the two first openings.

[0012] 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.

[0013] 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.

[0014] In the above technical solution, most of the inert gas will enter the airbag through the separation membrane at the maximum cross-section of the flow cross-section after entering the first container, which improves the speed of the airbag collecting the inert gas, so that the deformation of the airbag can be monitored as early as possible, improves the response speed of the monitoring device, and further improves the reliability of the liquid injection equipment.

[0015] In some embodiments, the airbag is provided with a second valve, and the second valve is used to open or close the airbag.

[0016] In the above technical solution, a second valve is arranged on the airbag, which is convenient for discharging the inert gas in the airbag.

[0017] In some embodiments, the separation membrane includes a graphene reverse osmosis membrane or a ceramic membrane.

[0018] In the above technical solution, the separation membrane is set to include a graphene reverse osmosis membrane, which has high selectivity, high permeability, and relatively high separation accuracy. The separation membrane is set to include a ceramic membrane, which has good chemical corrosion resistance and is easy to clean.

[0019] 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 arranged on the frame body.

[0020] 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 relatively accurately. The frame body is provided so that the first container supports the sensing element to form an integral structure, thus facilitating installation.

[0021] 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.

[0022] In the above technical solution, the combustible gas detection element is provided to monitor the concentration of combustible gas formed by the evaporation of the electrolyte, so that it can be detected in time 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 equipment.

[0023] 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.

[0024] 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 safeguard and further improving the reliability of the liquid injection equipment.

[0025] In some embodiments, the liquid injection equipment further includes an alarm component, and the alarm component is connected to the control device.

[0026] In the above technical solution, the alarm component is provided 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.

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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.

[0029] In some embodiments, the numbers of the gas-liquid supply device and the liquid injection device are respectively multiple. 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 multiple. The multiple reading devices are respectively used to read the electrolyte type information recorded by at least some of the identification members.

[0030] In the above technical solution, the reading efficiency can be improved and the production efficiency can be accelerated.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] In a second aspect, the embodiment of the present application further provides a liquid injection method, including:

[0034] Injecting an electrolyte into the housing of the battery cell, where the electrolyte is stored in a storage container;

[0035] Introducing an inert gas into the storage container to enable the electrolyte to be transported to the liquid injection device through the first pipeline;

[0036] When it is monitored that the inert gas enters the first pipeline, controlling the first valve on the first pipeline to close to cut off the transportation of the electrolyte.

[0037] 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 process 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.

[0038] In some embodiments, when it is detected that an inert gas enters the first pipeline, controlling the first valve on the first pipeline to close includes: when it is detected that the inert gas in the first pipeline passes through the 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.

[0039] In the above technical solution, the airbag is used to collect the inert gas, and the deformation of the airbag is convenient for monitoring, so as to conveniently and timely know the entry situation of the inert gas.

[0040] 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. Description of the Drawings

[0041] 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.

[0042] Figure 1 A schematic structural diagram of a liquid injection device provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0043] Figure 2 A schematic structural diagram of a monitoring device in the liquid injection device provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0044] Figure 3 Another schematic structural diagram of a liquid injection device provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0045] Figure 4 For Figure 3 An enlarged view at A.

[0046] The reference numerals in the specific embodiments are as follows:

[0047] 100, liquid injection device;

[0048] 1, liquid injection device; 11, liquid storage container; 12, liquid injection mechanism; 13, combustible gas detection element; 14, switch; 15, exhaust hole;

[0049] 2, gas-liquid supply device; 21, storage container; 26, gas supply mechanism; 24, identification member;

[0050] 22, first pipeline; 23, first valve;

[0051] 3. Monitoring device; 31. First container; 311. Cavity; 312. First opening; 32. Separation membrane; 33. Airbag; 332. Second valve; 34. Sensing element; 35. Frame body;

[0052] 4. Control device;

[0053] 5. Reading device. Detailed implementation manners

[0054] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the following will clearly describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application 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 protection scope of this application.

[0055] 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 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 description and claims of this application and the above drawings are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. The terms "first", "second", etc. in the description and claims of this application or the above drawings are used to distinguish different objects and are not used to describe a specific order or primary-secondary relationship.

[0056] Referring to "embodiment" in this application means that the specific features, structures, or characteristics described in connection with the embodiment can be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase at various positions in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it an independent or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments.

[0057] In the description of this application, it should be noted that unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the terms "installed", "connected", "connected to", and "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 internal communication of 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.

[0058] In this application, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between associated objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can represent three situations: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone. Additionally, in this application, the character " / " generally indicates that the associated objects before and after are in an "or" relationship.

[0059] In the embodiments of this application, the same reference numerals represent the same components. 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, etc. of various components in the embodiments of this application shown in the drawings, as well as the overall thickness, length, width, etc. of the integrated device, are only illustrative and should not constitute any limitation to this application.

[0060] The term "a plurality of" as used in this application refers to two or more (including two).

[0061] 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 are not limited thereto. The battery cell may be in a cylindrical shape, a flat shape, a cuboid shape, or other shapes, and the embodiments of this application are also not limited thereto.

[0062] 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 can be aluminum, and the positive electrode active material layer includes a positive electrode active material, which can 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 can be copper, and the negative electrode active material layer includes a negative electrode active material, which can be carbon or silicon, etc. The material of the separator can be PP (polypropylene) or PE (polyethylene), etc.

[0063] During the production of battery cells, a liquid injection device is required to inject electrolyte into the housing. The liquid injection device includes an electrolyte tank for supplying electrolyte and an electrolyte tank for liquid injection, which are connected. The electrolyte tank for supplying electrolyte transports the electrolyte to the electrolyte tank for liquid injection through a pipeline. 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, a large amount of the inert gas used to drive the flow of the electrolyte will enter the electrolyte tank for liquid injection. 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.

[0064] In view of this, the present application provides a liquid injection device that uses a monitoring device to monitor whether 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 equipment and fire caused by the inert gas driving the electrolyte to splash.

[0065] Figure 1 It is a schematic structural diagram of a liquid injection device provided by some embodiments of the present application.

[0066] As Figure 1 shown, the present application provides a liquid injection device 100. The liquid injection device 100 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 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. The first pipeline 22 is provided with a first valve 23 for controlling its own on-off. The monitoring device 3 is arranged on the first pipeline 22 and is used to monitor whether 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 inert gas into the first pipeline 22.

[0067] The liquid storage container 11 in this embodiment can be a liquid storage tank, a liquid storage bottle, or a liquid storage box, etc.

[0068] 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 for transporting the electrolyte.

[0069] The storage container 21 in this embodiment can be a liquid storage tank, a liquid storage bottle, or a liquid storage box, etc.

[0070] 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.

[0071] Exemplarily, the gas supply mechanism 26 can only include a pipeline for transporting the inert gas; it can also include a gas storage tank that stores the inert gas. Alternatively, the gas supply mechanism 26 can further include a gas reaction mechanism that generates the inert gas through a reaction and supplies it to the storage container 21 through the pipeline.

[0072] The first valve 23 in this embodiment can be a pneumatic valve, a hydraulic valve, or other types of valves for controlling the on-off of the first pipeline 22.

[0073] The monitoring device 3 in 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.

[0074] Along the flow direction of the electrolyte, the monitoring device 3 can be arranged upstream of the first valve 23 or downstream of it.

[0075] Exemplarily, the monitoring device 3 can 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 the pressure sensor 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 the 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, 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 can be determined according to the actual usage situation.

[0076] The control device 4 in the embodiment of the present application can be a PLC controller, or it can also be a host computer, a single-chip microcomputer, or other control circuits or control modules that can implement control functions, but it is not limited thereto.

[0077] 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. The multiple monitoring devices 3 are respectively used to monitor whether inert gas enters the first pipelines 22, so as to cut off the conveying process of the corresponding first pipelines 22.

[0078] In the liquid injection device 100 of this embodiment, by setting the monitoring device 3, the monitoring device 3 is used to monitor whether inert gas enters the first pipeline 22. 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. The control device 4 closes the first valve 23 to cut off the conveying process of the electrolyte and the inert gas, reducing the risk of the electrolyte corroding the device and causing a fire caused by the inert gas driving the electrolyte in the liquid storage container 11 to splash out from the exhaust hole 15, and improving the reliability of the liquid injection device 100.

[0079] Figure 2 It is a schematic structural diagram of the monitoring device in the liquid injection device provided by some embodiments of the present application.

[0080] 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 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.

[0081] Exemplarily, the pore size range of the separation membrane 32 is 0.3 nm - 1 nm.

[0082] Exemplarily, the separation membrane 32 may include a carbon nanotube membrane, a polymer membrane, or a composite nano membrane, etc.

[0083] The airbag 33 in the embodiment of the present application is made of a material with a certain elasticity. Here, having elasticity means that the airbag 33 can generate deformation under the action of an external force, and at least part of the deformation can be restored 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.

[0084] Exemplarily, the airbag 33 can be made of a corrosion-resistant material. Optionally, the airbag 33 is made of stainless steel or polytetrafluoroethylene material.

[0085] Exemplarily, the separation membrane 32 covers the opening of the airbag 33.

[0086] 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.

[0087] The sensing element 34 and the control device 4 of this embodiment can be connected by wire communication or wireless communication.

[0088] The sensing element 34 of this embodiment is used to monitor the deformation of the airbag 33. Exemplarily, the sensing element 34 can be a magnetic sensor, and a magnetic element that can be sensed by the magnetic sensor is provided on the airbag 33. When the airbag 33 bulges due to the filling of inert gas, the distance between the magnetic sensor and the magnetic element changes, and the magnetic 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.

[0089] 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 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 4 is relatively reliable.

[0090] 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 to flow and accumulate 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.

[0091] The first container 31 of this embodiment has a cavity 311, and 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.

[0092] The part of the first container 31 of this application embodiment where the cavity 311 is provided can be in the shape of a cuboid or an olive ball.

[0093] Exemplarily, along the flow direction of the electrolyte, the flow cross-section of the first container 31 is larger than the flow cross-section of the pipeline directly connected to it to accumulate inert gas.

[0094] The separation membrane 32 of this embodiment 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 is blocked.

[0095] Between the airbag 33 and the first container 31 of this embodiment, there may be no other components except the separation membrane 32, or they can be indirectly connected through other components. The separation membrane 32 can be arranged on the first container 31, the airbag 33 or other components.

[0096] Optionally, the airbag 33 has a folding structure, which is folded in a direction away from the first container 31 and is used to deform in the direction away from the first container 31. The sensing element 34 is disposed on a side of the folding structure away from the first container 31. This is arranged to better monitor the deformation of the airbag 33.

[0097] The first container 31 is provided to collect the inert gas more quickly, cut off the delivery process of the electrolyte and the inert gas, and reduce the corrosion of the electrolyte on the liquid storage container 11 and the impact on the environment.

[0098] In some embodiments, the first container 31 is directly disposed on the first pipeline 22.

[0099] In this embodiment, the first container 31 of the present embodiment can be directly disposed at one end of the first pipeline 22 or directly disposed in the middle of the first pipeline 22, dividing the first pipeline 22 into two parts.

[0100] The first container 31 is directly disposed on the first pipeline 22 to collect the inert gas more quickly.

[0101] 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.

[0102] Optionally, the airbag 33 is disposed on one side of the first container 31 in the arrangement direction of the two first openings 312.

[0103] This is arranged to not only facilitate the flow of the electrolyte but also facilitate the entry of the inert gas into the airbag 33.

[0104] 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.

[0105] This is arranged such that most of the inert gas will pass through the separation membrane 32 from the place with the largest flow cross-section after entering the first container 31, improving the speed of collecting the inert gas by the airbag 33, so that the deformation of the airbag 33 can be monitored earlier, improving the response speed of the monitoring device 3, and further improving the reliability of the liquid injection device 100.

[0106] 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.

[0107] The second valve 332 of this embodiment can be switched manually or automatically. Optionally, the second valve 332 is connected to the control device 4 to achieve closing and opening.

[0108] The second valve 332 is provided on the airbag 33 to facilitate the discharge of the inert gas in the airbag 33.

[0109] In some embodiments, the separation membrane 32 includes a graphene reverse osmosis membrane or a ceramic membrane.

[0110] The separation membrane 32 is set to include a graphene reverse osmosis membrane, which has high selectivity, high permeability, and high separation accuracy.

[0111] The separation membrane 32 is set to include a ceramic membrane, which has good chemical corrosion resistance and is easy to clean.

[0112] 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 arranged on the frame 35.

[0113] 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 can be arranged at intervals or in contact with each other. When the pressure sensor monitors that the pressure generated between the airbag 33 and the pressure sensor gradually increases or reaches a threshold value, the control device 4 controls the first valve 23 to close. Wherein, the threshold value is determined according to the actual production situation.

[0114] 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 arranged at intervals. When the distance sensor monitors 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. Wherein, the threshold value is determined according to the actual production situation.

[0115] The frame 35 of this embodiment is fixedly arranged with the first container 31, and the sensing element 34 is fixedly arranged on the frame 35.

[0116] The sensing element 34 is set to include a pressure sensor or a distance sensor, and these two sensors are easy to install and can monitor the deformation of the airbag 33 more accurately.

[0117] The frame 35 is provided so that the first container 31 supports the sensing element 34 to form an integral structure, thereby facilitating installation.

[0118] In some embodiments, the liquid injection device 1 further includes a combustible gas detection element 13, which 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.

[0119] The connection between the combustible gas detection element 13 and the control device 4 in this embodiment can be a wired communication connection or a wireless communication connection.

[0120] Exemplarily, when the concentration of combustible gas detected by the combustible gas detection element 13 is greater than or equal to C1, the control device 4 controls the first valve 23 to close, where 2000 PPM ≤ C1 ≤ 4000 PPM.

[0121] After the electrolyte leaks, the electrolyte evaporates into combustible gas. When the combustible gas reaches a certain concentration, the combustible gas detection element 13 can detect it. When the concentration of combustible gas reaches the threshold value, the control device 4 controls the first valve 23 to close. The threshold value is determined according to the actual situation.

[0122] The combustible gas detection element 13 is provided to monitor the concentration of combustible gas formed by the evaporation of the electrolyte, so that it can be detected in time 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 device 100.

[0123] In some embodiments, the liquid injection device 1 further includes a switch 14, which 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 signal of the switch 14.

[0124] The connection between the switch 14 and the control device 4 in this embodiment can be a wired communication connection or a wireless communication connection.

[0125] The switch 14 in this embodiment can be structured as a button, a switch lever, a toggle switch, etc.

[0126] 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 layer of protection and further improving the reliability of the liquid injection device 100.

[0127] In some embodiments, the liquid injection device 100 further includes an alarm component, which is connected to the control device 4.

[0128] The connection between the alarm component and the control device 4 in this embodiment can be a wired communication connection or a wireless communication connection.

[0129] The alarm component in this embodiment can be a speaker or a warning light, etc.

[0130] The alarm component of this embodiment can be set 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 alarm components can be set 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.

[0131] 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.

[0132] An alarm component is provided 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 21 and handle the splashed electrolyte.

[0133] Figure 3 Another structural schematic diagram of the liquid injection device provided by some embodiments of this application; Figure 4 is Figure 3 An enlarged view at A.

[0134] 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 transport the electrolyte in the storage container 21 when the electrolyte type information matches the electrolyte type currently required to be transported by the first pipeline 22.

[0135] 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.

[0136] 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.

[0137] The identification member 24 of this embodiment can be an RFID tag, an IC chip, a piece of paper, etc.

[0138] The reading device 5 of this embodiment can be an RFID reader, or can be a card reader, a two-dimensional code scanner, a bar code scanner, etc.

[0139] The reading device 5 and the control device 4 of this embodiment can be connected by wired communication or wireless communication.

[0140] 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 is opened and production can continue. If they are different, the first valve 23 remains closed and an alarm is given through the above-mentioned alarm component.

[0141] 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.

[0142] In this embodiment, the number of the reading devices 5 can be one. One reading device 5 reads multiple identification members 24. Specifically, it can be read by an operator holding it, or multiple identification members 24 can be read in sequence by driving the reading device 5 to move through a driving component.

[0143] In this embodiment, the control device 4 controls whether the first pipeline 22 conveys electrolyte. The first valve 23 can be used to control whether the first pipeline 22 conveys electrolyte, or other control valves provided on the first pipeline 22 can be used to control whether the first pipeline 22 conveys electrolyte.

[0144] 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 type of electrolyte that the first pipeline 22 needs to convey, so as to determine 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.

[0145] 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 identification members 24, and the number of the reading devices 5 is multiple. The multiple reading devices 5 are respectively used to read the electrolyte type information recorded by at least some of the identification members 24.

[0146] Each liquid injection device 1 in 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, 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.

[0147] 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 a part of the first pipelines 22. Optionally, each first pipeline 22 is correspondingly provided with a monitoring device 3.

[0148] Optionally, a plurality of reading devices 5 are correspondingly arranged one-to-one with at least a part of the identification members 24 among all the identification members 24. Further optionally, each identification member 24 is correspondingly provided with a reading device 5.

[0149] With such an arrangement, the reading efficiency can be improved and the production efficiency can be accelerated.

[0150] 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.

[0151] 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 5.

[0152] The embodiment of the present application further provides a liquid injection method, including:

[0153] S1. Inject electrolyte into the housing of the battery cell, and the electrolyte is stored in the storage container 21;

[0154] S2. Introduce inert gas into the storage container 21 so that the electrolyte is transported to the liquid injection device 1 through the first pipeline 22;

[0155] 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 transportation of the electrolyte.

[0156] In step S1 of this embodiment, the electrolyte is injected into the housing of the battery cell through the liquid injection mechanism 12.

[0157] The storage container 21 of this embodiment can be a liquid storage tank, a liquid storage bottle, a liquid storage box, etc.

[0158] 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.

[0159] In step S3, the first valve 23 can be a pneumatic valve, a hydraulic valve or other types of valves for controlling the on-off of the first pipeline 22.

[0160] When it is detected that the inert gas enters the first pipeline 22, it proves that the electrolyte is almost used up or has been used up. The first valve 23 is controlled to close, cutting off the transportation process of the electrolyte and the inert gas, and reducing the risk of electrolyte corrosion of equipment and fire caused by the inert gas driving the electrolyte in the liquid injection device 1 to splash out.

[0161] In some embodiments, step S3 includes: when it is detected that the inert gas passing through the first pipeline 22 passes through the separation membrane 32 and deforms the airbag 33, the first valve 23 is controlled 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.

[0162] The airbag 33 is used to collect the inert gas, and the deformation of the airbag 33 is convenient for monitoring, facilitating timely knowledge of the entry of the inert gas.

[0163] The embodiment of the present application also provides a battery production system, including the above-mentioned liquid injection device 100 or adopting the above-mentioned liquid injection method.

[0164] 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 the sealing element on the liquid injection hole.

[0165] 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 the electrode assembly in the housing and weld the end cap to the housing.

[0166] Please refer to Figures 1-4, embodiments of the present application provide a liquid injection device 100, and the liquid injection device 100 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 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. 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 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. 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.

[0167] 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.

[0168] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present application, rather than limiting 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 on 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, Comprising: A liquid injection device, including a liquid storage container and a liquid injection mechanism, the liquid storage container communicating with the liquid injection mechanism, the liquid injection mechanism being configured to inject electrolyte into the housing of a battery cell; A gas-liquid supply device, including a connected gas supply mechanism and a storage container, the storage container communicating with the liquid injection device through a first pipeline, the gas supply mechanism being configured 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, the first pipeline being provided with a first valve for controlling its own on-off; A monitoring device, the monitoring device being disposed on the first pipeline and configured to monitor whether the inert gas enters the first pipeline; A control device, both the first valve and the monitoring device being connected to the control device, the control device being configured to control the closing of the first valve according to the entry of the inert gas into the first pipeline; The monitoring device includes a separation membrane, an airbag and a sensing element, the airbag communicating with the first pipeline, the separation membrane being connected to the airbag and configured 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 being configured to monitor the deformation of the airbag and being connected to the control device, the control device being configured to control the opening and closing of the first valve according to the deformation of the airbag.

2. The liquid injection device according to claim 1, wherein, The monitoring device further includes a first container, the airbag communicating with the first pipeline through the first container, the first container being configured to allow the electrolyte to flow and accumulate the inert gas when the inert gas enters, the separation membrane being disposed at the connection between the airbag and the first container.

3. The liquid injection device according to claim 2, wherein The first container has two first openings, one of the first openings communicating with the liquid storage container and the other first opening communicating with the storage container, the two first openings being located on opposite sides of the first container, the separation membrane being located in the area between the two first openings.

4. The liquid injection device according to claim 3, characterized in that, Along the arrangement direction from one of the first openings to the other first opening, the flow cross-section of the first container first increases and then decreases, the separation membrane being disposed at the maximum cross-section of the flow cross-section of the first container.

5. The liquid injection device according to claim 1, wherein, The airbag is provided with a second valve, the second valve being configured to open or close the airbag.

6. The liquid injection device according to claim 1, characterized in that The separation membrane includes a graphene reverse osmosis membrane or a ceramic membrane.

7. The liquid injection device according to claim 2, wherein, The sensing element includes a pressure sensor or a distance sensor; and / or, The monitoring device further includes a frame, the frame being connected to the first container, the sensing element being disposed on the frame.

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

9. The liquid injection device according to claim 1, wherein The liquid injection device further includes a switch, the switch being connected to the control device, the control device being configured to control the opening and closing of the first valve according to the signal of the switch.

10. The liquid injection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The liquid injection device further includes an alarm component, and the alarm component is connected to the control device.

11. The liquid injection device according to any one of claims 1-10, characterized in that, The gas-liquid supply device includes an identification component, and the identification component is connected to the storage container; The liquid injection device further includes a reading device, the reading device is connected to the control device, and the reading device is used to read the electrolyte type information corresponding to the identification component, The control device is configured 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.

12. The liquid injection device according to claim 11, wherein, The number of the gas-liquid supply devices and the liquid injection devices are respectively multiple, each liquid injection device is at least connected to one gas-liquid supply device, and at least some of the storage containers are provided with the identification components, The number of the reading devices is multiple, and the multiple reading devices are respectively used to read the electrolyte type information recorded by at least some of the identification components.

13. The liquid injection device according to claim 12, wherein The identification component 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.

14. A liquid injection method, characterized in that, Comprising: Injecting electrolyte into the housing of the battery cell, and the electrolyte is stored in a storage container; Introducing an inert gas into the storage container so that the electrolyte is conveyed to the liquid injection device via a first pipeline; When it is monitored that the inert gas enters the first pipeline, controlling the first valve on the first pipeline to close to cut off the conveyance of the electrolyte; 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 the 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.

15. A battery production system, characterized in that, Comprising the liquid injection device according to any one of claims 1-13 or adopting the liquid injection method according to claim 14.

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