Foreign matter detection device and operation method thereof

Abstract

The invention relates to a foreign matter detection device and an operation method thereof, the foreign matter detection device is used for detecting foreign matters in gaps between battery cell shells, the foreign matter detection device comprises a power supply and a detection part, and the detection part can be arranged in the gaps between two adjacent battery cell shells in a penetrating mode. The positive electrode part and the negative electrode part are arranged in an insulating mode, the insulating part is arranged between the positive electrode part and the negative electrode part, the positive electrode part is electrically connected with the positive electrode of the power source, the negative electrode part is electrically connected with the negative electrode of the power source, and the positive electrode part and the negative electrode part can be conducted when making contact with foreign matter located in the gap at the same time. When a foreign matter exists in the gap, the foreign matter can be in contact with the positive electrode part and the negative electrode part of the detection piece at the same time, so that a loop where the power supply and the detection piece are located is conducted, and the foreign matter hidden in the gap between the adjacent battery cell shells can be found in time according to the conduction state of the loop; and the foreign matter is prevented from being assembled in the gap between the battery cell shells to influence the performance and the stability, and the device has the advantages of simple structure and convenience in operation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the technical field of foreign object detection for battery packs, and specifically, to a foreign object detection device and an operation method thereof. Background Art

[0002] Foreign object control is a key link to ensure the quality and safety of battery packs. The introduction of foreign objects may cause a decline in the performance of battery packs, short circuits, and even lead to safety accidents. In related technologies, the foreign object sampling points are usually located outside the battery pack, and cannot truly reflect whether foreign objects enter the inside of the battery pack (such as the gap between two adjacent battery cell casings), resulting in foreign objects still being assembled into the battery pack, affecting the stability of the battery pack. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a foreign object detection device and an operation method thereof to at least partially solve the technical problems existing in the related technologies.

[0004] To achieve the above purpose, the first aspect of the present disclosure provides a foreign object detection device for detecting foreign objects in the gap between battery cell casings. The foreign object detection device includes: A power supply; A detection member that can be inserted into the gap between two adjacent battery cell casings. The detection member includes a positively charged portion, a negatively charged portion arranged in insulation, and an insulating portion provided between the positively charged portion and the negatively charged portion. The positively charged portion is electrically connected to the positive electrode of the power supply, the negatively charged portion is electrically connected to the negative electrode of the power supply, and the positively charged portion and the negatively charged portion can be conducted when they are in contact with a foreign object in the gap at the same time.

[0005] Optionally, the detection member includes a positive conductive sheet, a negative conductive sheet, and an insulating sheet. The positive conductive sheet, the insulating sheet, and the negative conductive sheet are stacked in sequence. The positive conductive sheet forms the positively charged portion, the negative conductive sheet forms the negatively charged portion, and the insulating sheet forms the insulating portion.

[0006] Optionally, along the height direction of the detection member, multiple alternately arranged convex structures and concave structures are respectively formed on two edges of the detection member.

[0007] Optionally, the edge of the detection member is formed in a serrated shape.

[0008] Optionally, the foreign object detection device further includes a collection portion with a collection groove therein; The collection portion is connected to the bottom end of the detection member and protrudes from the detection member in the width direction of the detection member.

[0009] Optionally, the thickness of the detection member is less than or equal to the width of the gap between two adjacent battery cell casings.

[0010] Optionally, the thickness of the detection element is ≤0.1 mm.

[0011] Optionally, the foreign object detection device further includes a handle, the power supply is disposed in the handle, and the detection element is electrically connected to the power supply and at least partially extends to the outside of the handle.

[0012] Optionally, the handle comprises a gripping portion and a stopper portion which are connected to each other, the power supply is arranged in the gripping portion, and the detection member extends from an end of the stopper portion which is away from the gripping portion to an outer side of the stopper portion.

[0013] Optionally, the foreign object detection device further comprises an alarm module, which is connected in series to the circuit where the power supply and the detection element are located, and can sound an alarm when the power supply and the detection element are connected.

[0014] Optionally, the alarm module includes an indicator light and / or a buzzer.

[0015] Optionally, the foreign object detection device further includes an ammeter and a rheostat, and the ammeter and the rheostat are connected in series to the loop where the power supply and the detection element are located.

[0016] A second aspect of the present disclosure provides an operating method applied to the foreign body detection device as described above, the operating method comprising: Inserting the detection member into the gap between two adjacent battery cell shells; driving the detection member to move within the gap; Whether there is a foreign object in the gap is determined according to the conduction state between the power supply and the positive electrode portion and the negative electrode portion of the detection member.

[0017] Optionally, the operation method further includes: When the positive electrode portion and the negative electrode portion are not connected to the power supply, the detection member is driven to move within the gap; or, When the positive electrode portion and the negative electrode portion are electrically connected to the power source, the driving detection member is separated from the gap.

[0018] Optionally, driving the detection member to move within the gap includes: driving the detection member to move along the height direction of the gap; and / or The detection member is driven to move along the length direction of the gap.

[0019] Through the above technical solution, the detection member can be inserted into the gap between two adjacent battery cell cases, so as to detect the key area where foreign objects are likely to exist and are difficult to detect in the prior art. During the process of moving the detection member in the gap, when there is a foreign object in the gap, the foreign object will come into contact with both the positive electrode portion and the negative electrode portion of the detection member at the same time, causing the circuit where the power source and the detection member are located to be turned on. Therefore, the foreign object hidden in the gap between adjacent battery cell cases can be detected in a timely manner according to the conduction state of this circuit, avoiding the assembly of foreign objects into the gap between the battery cell cases and affecting their performance and stability.

[0020] Moreover, precisely because the above detection member only includes a positively electrode portion, a negatively electrode portion and an insulating portion which are insulatedly arranged, and the positively electrode portion and the negatively electrode portion are respectively electrically connected to the positive and negative electrodes of the power source, the above foreign object detection device has a simpler structure. The operator can directly insert the detection member into the gap between the battery cell cases for detection without a complex operation process, reducing the detection cost and operation difficulty, improving the detection efficiency, and facilitating rapid deployment and use on the production line.

[0021] Other features and advantages of the present disclosure will be described in detail in the subsequent specific implementation section. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] The drawings are used to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure, and constitute a part of the specification. Together with the following specific implementation, they are used to explain the present disclosure, but do not constitute a limitation to the present disclosure. In the drawings: Figure 1 is a detection state diagram of a foreign object detection device provided by an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the foreign object detection device is located in the gap between two adjacent battery cell cases; Figure 2 is Figure 1 an enlarged view of part A of Figure 3 is a front view of a foreign object detection device provided by an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 4 is a circuit connection schematic diagram of a foreign object detection device provided by an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 5 is a detection state diagram of a foreign object detection device provided by the first exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the foreign object detection device is in the first position in the length direction, and the foreign object detection device is inserted to the lowest point of the gap; Figure 6 is a detection state diagram of a foreign object detection device provided by the second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the foreign object detection device is in the second position in the length direction, and the foreign object detection device is inserted to the lowest point of the gap; Figure 7is a detection state diagram of a foreign object detection device provided by a third exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the foreign object detection device is in a second position in the length direction, and the foreign object detection device is displaced in the height direction of the gap; Figure 8 is a detection state diagram of a foreign object detection device provided by a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the foreign object detection device is in a second position in the length direction, and the foreign object detection device is displaced in the height direction of the gap and drives the foreign object to escape from the gap; Figure 9 is a flowchart of an operating method provided by an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Description of Reference Numerals 1-foreign matter detection device; 10-power supply; 20-detection piece; 201-convex structure; 202-recessed structure; 21-positive electrode; 210-positive electrode guide; 22-negative electrode; 220-negative electrode guide; 23-insulating portion; 230-insulating sheet; 24-collecting portion; 240-collecting trough; 30-handle; 31-gripping portion; 32-stopping portion; 40-alarm module; 41-indicator light; 42-buzzer; 50-ammeter; 60-variator; 70-resistance element; 100-battery cell shell; 200-gap; 300-foreign matter. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] The specific implementation of the present disclosure is described in detail below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the specific implementation described herein is only used to illustrate and explain the present disclosure, and is not used to limit the present disclosure.

[0025] In the present disclosure, unless otherwise stated, the directional words such as "up", "down", "left", "right", etc. used to indicate directions or positional relationships are only for the convenience of describing the present disclosure and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, and a specific orientation structure and operation. Therefore, it cannot be understood as a limitation on the present disclosure. The terms "inside and outside" refer to the inside and outside of the corresponding structural contour.

[0026] In addition, "height direction" and "length direction" are defined based on the height direction and length direction of the battery case. Figure 1 , Figures 5 to 8 The height direction shown and Figures 5 to 8 The length direction is shown; the "width direction" is defined based on the width direction of the test piece. For details, please refer to Figure 3The width direction shown. Additionally, it should be noted that terms such as "first", "second", etc. are used to distinguish one element from another and do not have an order or importance. Also, in the description with reference to the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals in different drawings represent the same elements.

[0027] In the description of the present disclosure, it should also be noted that unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the terms "arranged", "connected", "linked", "installed" 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. For those of ordinary skill in the art, the specific meanings of the above terms in the present disclosure can be understood according to specific circumstances.

[0028] Foreign object control is a key link to ensure the quality and safety of the battery pack. The introduction of foreign objects may cause a decline in the performance of the battery pack, short circuit, or even trigger a safety accident. In related technologies, the foreign object sampling points are usually located outside the battery pack and cannot truly reflect whether foreign objects enter the battery pack (such as the gap between two adjacent battery cell casings), resulting in foreign objects still being assembled into the battery pack, affecting the stability of the battery pack.

[0029] Based on this, referring to Figures 1 to 8 shown, a first aspect of the present disclosure provides a foreign object detection device 1 for detecting foreign objects 300 in the gap 200 between battery cell casings 100. The foreign object detection device 1 includes a power source 10 and a detection member 20. The detection member 20 can be inserted into the gap 200 between two adjacent battery cell casings 100. The detection member 20 includes a positively charged portion 21 arranged insulatedly, a negatively charged portion 22, and an insulating portion 23 provided between the positively charged portion 21 and the negatively charged portion 22. The positively charged portion 21 is electrically connected to the positive pole of the power source 10, and the negatively charged portion 22 is electrically connected to the negative pole of the power source 10. The positively charged portion 21 and the negatively charged portion 22 can be conducted when they are in contact with a foreign object 300 located in the gap 200 at the same time.

[0030] Through the above technical solution, the detection member 20 can be inserted into the gap 200 between two adjacent battery cell casings 100 to detect the key area where foreign objects 300 are likely to exist and are difficult to detect in the prior art. During the process of moving the detection member 20 in the gap 200, when there is a foreign object 300 in the gap 200, the foreign object 300 will come into contact with the positively charged portion 21 and the negatively charged portion 22 of the detection member 20 at the same time, making the circuit where the power source 10 and the detection member 20 are located conductive. Thus, the foreign object 300 hidden in the gap 200 between adjacent battery cell casings 100 can be detected in a timely manner according to the conduction state of this circuit, avoiding the foreign object 300 being assembled into the gap 200 between the battery cell casings 100 and affecting its performance and stability.

[0031] Moreover, precisely because the above-mentioned detection element 20 only includes a positively charged part 21, a negatively charged part 22, and an insulating part 23 arranged in an insulating manner, and the positively charged part 21 and the negatively charged part 22 are electrically connected to the positive and negative electrodes of the power supply 10 respectively, the above-mentioned foreign object detection device 1 has a simpler structure. An operator can directly insert the detection element 20 into the gap 200 between the battery cell cases 100 for detection, without a complex operation process, reducing the detection cost and operation difficulty, improving the detection efficiency, and facilitating rapid deployment and use on a production line.

[0032] It should be noted that the above-mentioned foreign object 300 should have a certain electrical conductivity. For example, the above-mentioned foreign object 300 can be formed of metal materials including but not limited to zinc, magnesium, aluminum, iron, molybdenum, chromium, titanium, nickel, etc. In this way, when the foreign object 300 formed of a metal material contacts the positively charged part 21 and the negatively charged part 22 of the detection element 20, the circuit where the detection element 20 and the power supply 10 are located can be conducted. In other words, the foreign object detection device 1 provided by this solution can detect foreign objects 300 formed of conductive materials.

[0033] The present disclosure does not limit the specific shape of the above-mentioned detection element 20, as long as it can detect the foreign object 300 during the movement within the gap 200. For example, in order to facilitate the movement of the detection element 20 within the above-mentioned gap 200, the detection element 20 can be formed into a sheet-like structure. Specifically, as Figure 2 、 Figure 4 shown, in an exemplary embodiment provided by the present disclosure, the detection element 20 can include a positive electrode guide piece 210, a negative electrode guide piece 220, and an insulating piece 230. The positive electrode guide piece 210, the insulating piece 230, and the negative electrode guide piece 220 are stacked in sequence. The positive electrode guide piece 210 forms the positively charged part 21, the negative electrode guide piece 220 forms the negatively charged part 22, and the insulating piece 230 forms the insulating part 23. The detection element 20 is formed by stacking the positive electrode guide piece 210, the insulating piece 230, and the negative electrode guide piece 220 in sequence, which can make the detection element 20 have a thinner thickness. In this way, when the detection element 20 is inserted into the gap 200 between two adjacent battery cell cases 100, it can move smoothly within the gap 200, thus facilitating the detection of foreign objects 300 located within the gap 200.

[0034] Moreover, the insulating piece 230 arranged between the positive electrode guide piece 210 and the negative electrode guide piece 220 can also insulate the positive electrode guide piece 210 and the negative electrode guide piece 220, and can prevent the direct contact between the positive electrode guide piece 210 and the negative electrode guide piece 220.

[0035] It should be noted that in order to prevent the foreign object 300 from being interfered or obstructed by the insulating sheet 230 located between the positive electrode guide piece 210 and the negative electrode guide piece 220 during the process of simultaneously contacting the positive electrode guide piece 210 and the negative electrode guide piece 220, the size of the insulating sheet 230 should be less than or equal to the sizes of the positive electrode guide piece 210 and the negative electrode guide piece 220. Thus, when the positive electrode guide piece 210, the insulating sheet 230, and the negative electrode guide piece 220 are stacked in sequence, the edges of the positive electrode guide piece 210 and the negative electrode guide piece 220 are kept opposite and spaced apart.

[0036] Alternatively, it can also be understood that the edges of the positive electrode guide piece 210 and the negative electrode guide piece 220 both protrude from the insulating sheet 230. In this way, it can not only prevent direct contact between the positive electrode guide piece 210 and the negative electrode guide piece 220, but also prevent the foreign object 300 from being interfered by the insulating sheet 230 when contacting the positive electrode guide piece 210 and the negative electrode guide piece 220.

[0037] In an exemplary embodiment provided by the present disclosure, the above-mentioned detecting member 20 can also be formed into a columnar structure.

[0038] In addition, it should be noted that the present disclosure does not limit the number of the positive electrode guide piece 210, the negative electrode guide piece 220, and the insulating sheet 230 included in the detecting member 20 either. For example, the detecting member 20 can be formed by stacking multiple positive electrode guide pieces 210, multiple negative electrode guide pieces 220, and multiple insulating sheets 230 together. Each positive electrode guide piece 210 and each negative electrode guide piece 220 are electrically connected to the power supply 10 and are stacked in the order of positive electrode guide piece 210, insulating sheet 230, negative electrode guide piece 220, insulating sheet 230, positive electrode guide piece 210. In this case, along the thickness direction of the detecting member 20, multiple minimum conduction units formed by the positive electrode guide piece 210, the insulating sheet 230, and the negative electrode guide piece 220 can be formed, and the distance between the positive electrode guide piece 210 and the negative electrode guide piece 220 is smaller. In this way, when detecting the foreign object 300 in the gap 200, a larger detection range can be covered, and accurate detection of the foreign object 300 with a smaller particle size can be achieved.

[0039] Such as Figure 3 、 Figures 5 to 8As shown, optionally, along the height direction of the detection member 20, a plurality of alternately arranged convex structures 201 and concave structures 202 are respectively formed on two edges of the detection member 20. On the one hand, during the process of driving the detection member 20 to move along the length direction of the gap 200, the plurality of alternately arranged convex structures 201 and concave structures 202 respectively formed on two edges of the detection member 20 can increase the contact area with the foreign object 300, thereby improving the accuracy during the detection of the foreign object 300. On the other hand, during the detection of the foreign object 300, the above-mentioned concave structure 202 can also accommodate the foreign object 300 or catch the foreign object 300, thereby making it more convenient to take out the foreign object 300 from the above-mentioned gap 200.

[0040] In an exemplary embodiment provided by the present disclosure, as Figure 3 , Figures 5 to 8 shown, the edge of the detection member 20 can be formed into a serrated shape. Designing the edge of the detection member 20 as a serrated shape further enhances the contact effect between the detection member 20 and the foreign object 300, and can adapt to the clamping of foreign objects 300 with different shapes. Especially when the foreign object 300 is small or has an irregular shape, the serrated edge can more effectively capture the foreign object 300, improving the accuracy and reliability of the detection.

[0041] For the above-mentioned embodiment in which the detection member 20 includes a positive electrode guide piece 210, a negative electrode guide piece 220, and an insulating piece 230, the edges of the positive electrode guide piece 210, the negative electrode guide piece 220, and the insulating piece 230 can all be formed into a serrated shape, so that when the positive electrode guide piece 210, the negative electrode guide piece 220, and the insulating piece 230 are stacked along their own thickness directions, the edge of the formed detection member 20 can be formed into a serrated shape.

[0042] In another exemplary embodiment provided by the present disclosure, the edge of the detection member 20 can be formed into a wavy shape, a comb shape, or other shapes.

[0043] Since the space in the gap 200 is small, in order to facilitate taking out the foreign object 300 in the gap 200, optionally, as Figure 3 , Figures 5 to 8 shown, the foreign object detection device 1 further includes a collection part 24, and the collection part 24 has a collection groove 240; the collection part 24 is connected to the bottom end of the detection member 20 and protrudes from the detection member 20 in the width direction of the detection member 20. In this way, the collection part 24 protruding from the detection member 20 in the width direction can collect the foreign object 300 during the movement of the detection member 20, preventing the foreign object 300 from entering the battery pack again during the detection process, and facilitating subsequent cleaning and analysis of the foreign object 300.

[0044] Moreover, precisely because the collection part 24 is connected to the bottom end of the detection part 20, during the movement of the detection part 20 within the gap 200, even if the foreign object 300 is not engaged in the above-mentioned concave structure 202, it will also fall into the collection groove 240 located at the bottom of the detection part 20 under its own gravity.

[0045] Similarly, for the embodiment in which a plurality of alternately arranged convex structures 201 and concave structures 202 are respectively formed on the two edges of the detection part 20, a plurality of alternately arranged convex structures 201 and concave structures 202 are also formed on the edge of the above-mentioned collection part 24. In this way, the foreign object 300 that is not collected by the collection part 24 can also be engaged with the convex structure 201 and the concave structure 202 on the edge of the collection part 24 to achieve the collection of the foreign object 300.

[0046] Optionally, as Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4 shown, the thickness of the detection part 20 can be less than or equal to the width of the gap 200 between two adjacent battery cell casings 100. The thickness of the detection part 20 is less than or equal to the width of the gap 200 between two adjacent battery cell casings 100. In this way, not only can the detection part 20 be inserted into the gap 200, but also when the detection part 20 is driven to move along the length direction or height direction of the gap 200, the problem of interference and scratching between the detection part 20 and the battery cell casing 100 can be avoided, thereby avoiding the problem of damage to the battery cell casing 100 during the detection of the foreign object 300.

[0047] Generally, the designed stacking gap 200 between adjacent battery cell casings 100 is 0.5 mm. Due to the accumulation of material tolerance and stacking tolerance, the actual stacking gap 200 is between 0.1 mm and 0.9 mm. Based on this, in order to be able to smoothly insert the detection part 20 into the gap 200, in an embodiment provided by the present disclosure, the thickness of the detection part 20 ≤ 0.1 mm.

[0048] For the above-mentioned embodiment in which the detection part 20 includes a positive electrode lead 210, a negative electrode lead 220, and an insulating sheet 230, the thickness of the positive electrode lead 210 and the negative electrode lead 220 is 0.02 mm - 0.03 mm, and the thickness of the insulating sheet 230 is between 0.01 mm and 0.02 mm. Based on this, the total thickness of the positive electrode lead 210, the negative electrode lead 220, and the insulating sheet 230 ≤ 0.1 mm.

[0049] In order to avoid the detection dead angle of the detection part 20 in the height direction during the detection process, in the present disclosure, as Figure 1 , Figures 5 to 8As shown, the dimension of the detection member 20 in the height direction is greater than or equal to the dimension of the battery cell case 100 in the height direction. In this way, during the detection process, the detection member 20 can cover the entire height range of the battery cell case 100, ensuring comprehensive detection of foreign objects 300 in the gap 200 between the battery cell cases 100, avoiding missed detections caused by insufficient detection range, and improving the reliability of detection.

[0050] It should be noted that the present disclosure does not limit the driving manner of the detection member 20 when moving in the gap 200. For example, the detection member 20 can be driven to move in the gap 200 by an electric driving manner such as a linear motor or a cylinder through a driving mechanism, or alternatively, the detection member 20 can also be driven to move in the gap 200 manually.

[0051] For the implementation manner of manually driving the detection member 20 to move in the gap 200, as Figure 1 、 Figure 3 shown, in order to facilitate the operation of the operator, in an implementation manner provided by the present disclosure, the foreign object detection device 1 may further include a handle 30. The power supply 10 is arranged in the handle 30, and the detection member 20 is electrically connected to the power supply 10 and at least partially extends to the outside of the handle 30. In this way, the operator can drive the detection member 20 to move in the gap 200 by holding the handle 30. On the one hand, integrating the power supply 10 in the handle 30 makes the structure of the entire detection device more compact, facilitating carrying and use. On the other hand, it can also avoid direct contact between the operator and the detection member 20, improving the stability of the detection member 20 during the detection process.

[0052] Optionally, as Figure 1 、 Figure 3 shown, the handle 30 may include a gripping portion 31 and a stopping portion 32 connected to each other. The power supply 10 is arranged in the gripping portion 31, and the detection member 20 extends from one end of the stopping portion 32 facing away from the gripping portion 31 to the outside of the stopping portion 32. On the one hand, the setting of the stopping portion 32 can prevent the operator's hand from accidentally contacting the detection member 20 or the battery cell during the operation, improving the safety of the operation. On the other hand, during the process of the operator gripping the gripping portion 31 to drive the detection member 20 to move along the length direction of the gap 200, under the sliding cooperation between the stopping portion 32 and the upper end surface of the battery cell case 100, the stability of the detection member 20 in the horizontal direction can also be restricted.

[0053] Optionally, as Figure 1 、 Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, the foreign object detection device 1 may further include an alarm module 40. The alarm module 40 is connected in series in the circuit where the power supply 10 and the detection element 20 are located, and can issue an alarm when the power supply 10 and the detection element 20 are turned on. In this way, when it is detected that there is a foreign object 300 in the gap 200 and the detection element 20 is turned on, the alarm module 40 connected in series in the circuit where the power supply 10 and the detection element 20 are located issues an alarm, reminding the operator to pay attention, so that the operator can take measures to handle the foreign object 300 in time, improving the timeliness and effectiveness of detection.

[0054] The present disclosure does not limit the structure and type of the above-mentioned alarm module 40. For example, in an embodiment provided by the present disclosure, the alarm module 40 may include an indicator light 41. In this way, when it is detected that there is a foreign object 300 in the gap 200 and the detection element 20 is turned on, the indicator light 41 is turned on to realize the reminder function for the operator.

[0055] Alternatively, in another exemplary embodiment provided by the present disclosure, the above-mentioned alarm module 40 may also be a buzzer 42. When it is detected that there is a foreign object 300 in the gap 200 and the detection element 20 is turned on, the buzzer 42 starts and emits a buzzing sound to realize the reminder function for the operator.

[0056] Optionally, as Figure 4 shown, the foreign object detection device 1 may further include an ammeter 50 and a rheostat 60. The ammeter 50 and the rheostat 60 are connected in series in the circuit where the power supply 10 and the detection element 20 are located. The ammeter 50 can monitor the current change in the circuit in real time. Information such as the conductivity and approximate size of the foreign object 300 can be judged through the magnitude of the current value, providing a basis for subsequent analysis and processing. The series connection of the ammeter 50 and the rheostat 60 ensures that the detection element 20 can accurately detect the current change when the foreign object 300 touches, and the rheostat 60 can adjust the magnitude of the current according to needs to adapt to different detection conditions and improve the detection accuracy.

[0057] In addition, as Figure 4 shown, the foreign object detection device 1 may further include a resistance element 70. The resistance element 70 is connected in series in the above-mentioned circuit. The resistance element 70 can prevent the current from being too large and damaging the ammeter 50, the power supply 10 or other components when it is detected that the foreign object 300 turns on the circuit.

[0058] Referring to Figures 5 to 9 shown, the second aspect of the present disclosure provides an operation method applied to the foreign object detection device 1 as above. The operation method includes: S101. Insert the detection element 20 into the gap 200 between two adjacent battery cell cases 100; S102. Drive the detection element 20 to move in the gap 200; S103. Determine whether there is a foreign object 300 in the gap 200 according to the conduction states of the power supply 10 with the positive electrode part 21 and the negative electrode part 22 of the detection member 20.

[0059] By inserting the detection member 20 into the gap 200 of the battery cell case 100 and moving it therein, each position in the gap 200 can be comprehensively and carefully detected. As long as the positive electrode part 21 and the negative electrode part 22 of the detection member 20 are in contact with the foreign object 300 simultaneously, they will conduct electricity, and even a tiny foreign object 300 can be detected in time, greatly improving the detection sensitivity and helping to avoid battery cell failures caused by tiny foreign objects 300.

[0060] It should be added that before inserting the detection member 20 into the gap 200 between two adjacent battery cell cases 100, in order to avoid the problem that when the positive electrode part 21 and the negative electrode part 22 are in contact with the foreign object 300 due to a connection failure between the power supply 10 and the detection member 20 and cannot conduct electricity with the power supply 10, it is necessary to first detect the above foreign object detection device 1 to determine whether the foreign object detection device 1 can operate normally.

[0061] Specifically, for the embodiment in which the foreign object detection device 1 may include an alarm module 40, in an exemplary embodiment provided in the present disclosure, the operator turns on the power supply 10, confirms that the indicator light 41 and the buzzer 42 do not give an alarm, and when the positive electrode part 21 and the negative electrode part 22 of the detection member 20 are simultaneously in contact with a 0.5 - mm trial - error foreign object 300 and it is confirmed that the alarm module 40 can give an alarm, it indicates that the foreign object detection device 1 can work normally; otherwise, it indicates that the foreign object detection device 1 has a fault.

[0062] Optionally, the operation method further includes: driving the detection member 20 to move in the gap 200 when the positive electrode part 21 and the negative electrode part 22 are not conducting electricity with the power supply 10; or, as shown in Figure 7 、 Figure 8 driving the detection member 20 to disengage from the gap 200 when the positive electrode part 21 and the negative electrode part 22 are conducting electricity with the power supply 10. During the process of driving the detection member 20 to move in the gap 200, when the positive electrode part 21 and the negative electrode part 22 are not conducting electricity with the power supply 10, it means that the detection member 20 does not detect a foreign object 300 in this gap 200, and at this time, the detection member 20 can be driven to continue moving in the gap 200 to realize the detection of different regions of the gap 200. When the positive electrode part 21 and the negative electrode part 22 of the detection member 20 are conducting electricity with the power supply 10, it means that a foreign object 300 has been detected. At this time, by driving the detection member 20 to disengage from the gap 200, the foreign object 300 is taken out of the gap 200, realizing the removal of the foreign object 300 in the gap 200.

[0063] It should be added that after detecting the foreign object 300, driving the detection member 20 to disengage from the gap 200 and taking out the foreign object 300 from the gap 200, the foreign object detection device 1 can be inserted into the above-mentioned gap 200 again to continue detecting the areas that were not detected before.

[0064] Regarding the movement of the detection member 20 in the gap 200 during the detection of the foreign object 300 mentioned above, this solution does not limit the moving direction and moving path of the detection member 20. For example, in an embodiment provided in the present disclosure, the movement of the detection member 20 in the gap 200 may include: driving the detection member 20 to move along the height direction of the gap 200, such as Figure 6 、 Figure 7 shown. In this way, by driving the detection member 20 to move along the height direction of the gap 200, the detection member 20 can fully cover the entire vertical direction of the gap 200, reducing the detection dead angle.

[0065] Or, as shown in combination with Figure 5 and Figure 6 in another embodiment provided in the present disclosure, the driving detection member 20 can move along the length direction of the gap 200. By driving the detection member 20 to move along the length direction of the gap 200, the detection member 20 can detect within the length range of the gap 200, thereby covering a larger area.

[0066] Or, in a third embodiment provided in the present disclosure, during the detection of the foreign object 300 in the gap 200, it can be alternately performed along the height direction and the length direction of the gap 200. Specifically, as shown in Figure 5 it can first insert the detection member 20 into the gap 200 along the height direction and be located at the bottom of the gap 200. At this time, the foreign object detection device 1 is in the first position in the length direction, and the detection member 20 is driven to reciprocally move in the height direction of the gap 200 to detect the foreign object 300 in the area where the detection member 20 is inserted. Subsequently, the detection member 20 is driven to move along the length direction of the gap 200 to the second position, as shown in Figures 6 to 8 shown. Then, the detection member 20 is driven to reciprocally move in the height direction of the gap 200 again, and so on, until all areas of the gap 200 are detected, to ensure that the detection member 20 fully covers the length direction and the height direction of the gap 200, reducing the detection dead angle.

[0067] The preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail above in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the specific details in the above embodiments. Within the scope of the technical concept of the present disclosure, various simple modifications can be made to the technical solutions of the present disclosure, and these simple modifications all fall within the protection scope of the present disclosure.

[0068] In addition, it should be noted that, among the various specific technical features described in the above specific embodiments, they can be combined in any suitable manner without conflict. To avoid unnecessary repetition, the present disclosure will not further explain various possible combination methods.

[0069] Furthermore, any combinations can be made among various different embodiments of the present disclosure, as long as they do not violate the idea of the present disclosure, and they should equally be regarded as the content disclosed by the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A foreign object detection device for detecting foreign objects in the gap between battery cell casings, characterized in that, The foreign body detection device comprises: power supply; A detection member, which can be inserted into a gap between two adjacent battery cell shells, and includes an insulated positive electrode portion, a negative electrode portion, and an insulating portion arranged between the positive electrode portion and the negative electrode portion, the positive electrode portion is electrically connected to the positive electrode of the power source, the negative electrode portion is electrically connected to the negative electrode of the power source, and the positive electrode portion and the negative electrode portion can be conductive when they are in contact with foreign matter located in the gap at the same time.

2. The foreign object detection device according to claim 1, wherein The detection member includes a positive electrode conductor, a negative electrode conductor and an insulating sheet, which are stacked in sequence. The positive electrode conductor forms the positive electrode portion, the negative electrode conductor forms the negative electrode portion, and the insulating sheet forms the insulating portion.

3. The foreign object detection device according to claim 1, wherein Along the height direction of the detection member, two edges of the detection member are respectively formed with a plurality of alternately arranged convex structures and concave structures.

4. The foreign object detection device according to claim 3, wherein, The edge of the detection member is formed in a sawtooth shape.

5. The foreign object detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The foreign matter detection device further comprises a collecting portion, wherein the collecting portion has a collecting tank; The collecting portion is connected to the bottom end of the detecting member and is arranged to protrude from the detecting member in a width direction of the detecting member.

6. The foreign object detection device according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The thickness of the detection member is less than or equal to the width of the gap between two adjacent battery core shells.

7. The foreign object detection device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The thickness of the detection piece is ≤0.1 mm.

8. The foreign object detection device according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The foreign object detection device further includes a handle, the power source is disposed in the handle, and the detection member is electrically connected to the power source and at least partially extends to the outside of the handle.

9. The foreign object detection device according to claim 8, wherein The handle comprises a gripping portion and a stopper portion which are connected to each other, the power source is arranged in the gripping portion, and the detection member extends from one end of the stopper portion which is away from the gripping portion to the outside of the stopper portion.

10. The foreign object detection device according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The foreign body detection device further comprises an alarm module, which is connected in series to the circuit where the power source and the detection element are located, and can sound an alarm when the power source and the detection element are connected.

11. The foreign object detection device according to claim 10, characterized in that, The alarm module includes an indicator light and / or a buzzer.

12. The foreign object detection device according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The foreign body detection device further comprises an ammeter and a rheostat, wherein the ammeter and the rheostat are connected in series to the loop where the power source and the detection element are located.

13. An operating method for a foreign object detection device according to any one of claims 1-12, characterized in that, The operation method comprises: Inserting the detection member into the gap between two adjacent battery cell shells; driving the detection member to move within the gap; Whether there is a foreign object in the gap is determined according to the conduction state between the power supply and the positive electrode portion and the negative electrode portion of the detection member.

14. The operating method according to claim 13, wherein The operation method also includes: When the positive electrode portion and the negative electrode portion are not connected to the power supply, the detection member is driven to move within the gap; or, When the positive electrode portion and the negative electrode portion are electrically connected to the power source, the driving detection member is separated from the gap.

15. The operating method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The driving the detection member to move in the gap comprises: driving the detection member to move along the height direction of the gap; and / or The detection member is driven to move along the length direction of the gap.

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