Assembly mechanism and battery assembly method

Abstract

This invention provides an assembly mechanism and a battery assembly method. The assembly mechanism includes a frame, an operating table, a material handling device, a transfer fixture, and an installation fixture. The operating table is disposed on the frame, and the material handling device is equipped with a positioning component and a suction component. The transfer fixture is disposed on the operating table and is equipped with a first positioning part and a second positioning part. The first positioning part is used to position a first workpiece, and the second positioning part is used to cooperate with the positioning component for positioning. The installation fixture is disposed on the operating table, and the operating table is equipped with a third positioning part and a fourth positioning part. The third positioning part is used to position a second workpiece, and the fourth positioning part is used to cooperate with the positioning component for positioning. The suction component is used to pick up the first workpiece from the transfer fixture and place it onto the second workpiece on the installation fixture. This invention has the advantages of high installation accuracy, high production efficiency, and reduced appearance defects.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of battery assembly technology, and more particularly to an assembly mechanism and a battery assembly method. Background Technology

[0002] In the domestic consumer electronics manufacturing process, battery assembly typically involves manually placing the battery cells into the casing and visually inspecting the accuracy of the installation. Manual operation inevitably introduces significant errors, posing a risk of incomplete installation and resulting in low assembly efficiency.

[0003] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a new assembly mechanism and battery assembly method to solve or at least alleviate the above-mentioned technical defects. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of the above problems, the present invention provides an assembly mechanism and a battery assembly method, aiming to solve the technical problems of inaccurate battery installation and low assembly efficiency in related technologies.

[0005] According to some embodiments of the present invention, an assembly mechanism is provided, comprising a frame, an operating table, a material handling device, a transfer fixture, and an installation fixture, wherein the operating table is disposed on the frame.

[0006] The material handling device is equipped with a positioning component and an adsorption component; a transfer fixture is set on the operating table, and the transfer fixture is equipped with a first positioning part and a second positioning part. The first positioning part is used to position the first workpiece, and the second positioning part is used to cooperate with the positioning component for positioning; an installation fixture is set on the operating table, and the installation fixture is equipped with a third positioning part and a fourth positioning part. The third positioning part is used to position the second workpiece, and the fourth positioning part is used to cooperate with the positioning component for positioning; the adsorption component is used to pick up the first workpiece from the transfer fixture and place it on the second workpiece of the installation fixture.

[0007] In some embodiments, the material handling device includes a bracket, a first rotary drive, a lifting member, a connecting arm, and a gripping assembly. The first rotary drive is mounted on the bracket, the lifting member is connected to the output shaft of the first rotary drive, the connecting arm is connected to the lifting member, and the gripping assembly includes a base and an adsorption member and a positioning member respectively mounted on the base. The base is connected to the connecting arm.

[0008] In some embodiments, the lifting member includes a hinge plate and a sliding seat, the connecting arm is mounted on the sliding seat, the sliding seat is slidably mounted on the output shaft, the hinge plate includes a plate body and a hinge, the plate body is suspended from the top of the bracket, and one end of the hinge extends from the plate body and connects to the sliding seat.

[0009] In some embodiments, the lifting member further includes a guide rod, which is arranged parallel to the output shaft and extends vertically. The sliding seat includes a first seat and a second seat connected to each other. The first seat is slidably mounted on the output shaft, and the second seat is slidably mounted on the guide rod. The connecting arm is mounted on the first seat or the second seat.

[0010] In some embodiments, the adsorption element includes a vacuum generator, a suction cup, and a switch. The suction cup is mounted on the base, the vacuum generator is in communication with the suction cup, and the vacuum generator is signal-connected to the switch.

[0011] In some embodiments, the gripping assembly further includes an elastic element and a slide bar, the suction cup includes a base and an adsorption portion, the base is slidably mounted on the slide bar, and the two ends of the elastic element abut against the base and the base respectively.

[0012] In some embodiments, the positioning element includes a positioning pin that extends a certain distance from the suction cup. The second positioning part includes a first positioning hole, and the fourth positioning part includes a second positioning hole. After the first positioning pin is inserted and positioned in the first positioning hole, the suction cup adsorbs the first workpiece. After the first positioning pin is positioned in the second positioning hole, the suction cup releases the first workpiece.

[0013] In some embodiments, the gripping assembly further includes a second rotary drive, the base includes a connecting seat and a mounting seat, the connecting arm is connected to the connecting seat, the second rotary drive is mounted on the connecting seat, the second rotary drive is connected to the mounting seat, and the suction member and the positioning member are disposed on the mounting seat.

[0014] In some embodiments, the mounting fixture includes an upper fixture and a lower fixture. The lower fixture includes a base plate, a contour hole disposed on the base plate, and a pre-pressing member hinged to the base plate. The contour hole is used to mount the second workpiece, and the pre-pressing member is used to press the second workpiece. The upper fixture includes a lifting drive and a pressing arm. The lifting drive is used to drive the pressing arm to move toward the lower fixture and thereby press the second workpiece.

[0015] In some embodiments, the lifting drive includes a handle, a mounting plate, a movable plate, and a support rod. The handle is disposed on the mounting plate and connected to the movable plate. The movable plate is slidably mounted on the support rod, and the pressure arm is mounted on the movable plate.

[0016] In some embodiments, the pressure arm is provided with a preload roller, which is used for rolling connection with the second workpiece.

[0017] In some embodiments, the material handling device further includes an image recognition device and a controller. The image recognition device is used to acquire image information of the second positioning part and the fourth positioning part, and send the image information to the controller. The controller acquires the position information of the second positioning part and the fourth positioning part based on the image information, and generates control commands to control the positioning element to cooperate with the second positioning part or the fourth positioning part for positioning.

[0018] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the present invention provides a battery assembly method applied to the assembly mechanism described above, the battery assembly method comprising:

[0019] The first workpiece is placed in the first positioning part of the transfer fixture, and the second workpiece is placed in the third positioning part of the installation fixture.

[0020] The control positioning component cooperates with the second positioning part of the transfer tooling for positioning, and the control adsorption component opens to pick up the first workpiece;

[0021] The positioning component is controlled to cooperate with the fourth positioning part of the mounting fixture for positioning, and the adsorption component is controlled to close and release the first workpiece so as to place the first workpiece on the second workpiece.

[0022] In the above scheme, the assembly mechanism includes a frame, an operating table, a material handling device, a transfer fixture, and an installation fixture. The operating table is located on the frame, and the material handling device is equipped with a positioning component and a suction component. The transfer fixture is located on the operating table and is equipped with a first positioning part and a second positioning part. The first positioning part is used to position the first workpiece, and the second positioning part is used to cooperate with the positioning component for positioning. The installation fixture is located on the operating table and is equipped with a third positioning part and a fourth positioning part. The third positioning part is used to position the second workpiece, and the fourth positioning part is used to cooperate with the positioning component for positioning. The suction component is used to pick up the first workpiece from the transfer fixture and place it onto the second workpiece on the installation fixture. This invention has the advantages of high installation accuracy, high production efficiency, and reduced appearance defects.

[0023] The above description is only an overview of the technical solution of the present invention. In order to more clearly understand the technical means of the present invention, it can be implemented in accordance with the contents of the specification. In order to make the above and other purposes, features and advantages of the present invention more obvious and easy to understand, the specific implementation methods of the present invention are specifically listed below. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Various other advantages and benefits will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following detailed description of preferred embodiments. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the invention. Furthermore, the same reference numerals denote the same parts throughout the drawings. In the drawings:

[0025] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the assembly mechanism according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the material handling device of the assembly mechanism in some embodiments of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the gripping component of the assembly mechanism in some embodiments of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the transfer tooling of the assembly mechanism in some embodiments of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 5 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the mounting fixture of the assembly mechanism in some embodiments of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 6 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the lower tooling of the assembly mechanism in some embodiments of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 7 This is a schematic flowchart of a battery assembly method according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0032] The reference numerals in the detailed embodiments are as follows:

[0033] 100. Assembly mechanism;

[0034] 10. Frame; 20. Control table; 30. Material handling device; 31. Positioning component; 311. Positioning pin; 32. Adsorption component; 321. Suction cup; 322. Switch; 323. Base; 33. Bracket; 331. Horizontal plate; 332. Vertical plate; 34. First rotary drive component; 341. Output shaft; 35. Lifting component; 351. Hinge plate; 352. Sliding seat; 36. Connecting arm; 37. Base; 371. Abutment plate; 38. Second rotary drive component; 39. Guide rod; 301. Slide rod; 302. Limiting block; 30. 3. Gripping assembly; 40. Transfer fixture; 41. First positioning part; 42. Second positioning part; 421. First positioning hole; 50. Mounting fixture; 51. Third positioning part; 52. Fourth positioning part; 521. Second positioning hole; 53. Upper fixture; 531. Lifting drive component; 5311. Handle; 5312. Mounting plate; 5313. Moving plate; 5314. Support rod; 532. Pressure arm; 533. Pre-pressure roller; 54. Lower fixture; 541. Base plate; 542. Contouring hole; 543. Pre-pressure component; 60. Material tray. Detailed Implementation

[0035] The embodiments of the technical solution of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. These embodiments are merely illustrative of the technical solution of the present invention and are therefore intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0036] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains; the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the invention; the terms “comprising” and “having”, and any variations thereof, in the specification, claims, and foregoing description of the invention, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0037] In the description of the embodiments of this invention, technical terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish different objects and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number, specific order, or primary and secondary relationship of the indicated technical features. In the description of the embodiments of this invention, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly defined.

[0038] In this document, the term "embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of the invention. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0039] In the description of the embodiments of this invention, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0040] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, the term "multiple" refers to two or more (including two), similarly, "multiple groups" refers to two or more (including two groups), and "multiple pieces" refers to two or more (including two pieces).

[0041] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, the technical terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of the present invention and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of the present invention.

[0042] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the technical terms such as "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of the present invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0043] Battery assembly typically involves manually placing the cells into the casing and visually inspecting the accuracy of the placement. Manual operation inevitably introduces errors, carries the risk of improper installation, and is inefficient. Furthermore, manual handling of the cells and casing increases the risk of collisions with other components or tooling, resulting in cosmetic defects.

[0044] Therefore, the applicant provides an assembly mechanism.

[0045] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 According to some embodiments of the present invention, an assembly mechanism 100 is provided. The assembly mechanism 100 includes a frame 10, an operating table 20, a material handling device 30, a transfer fixture 40, and an installation fixture 50. The operating table 20 is disposed on the frame 10. The material handling device 30 is provided with a positioning element 31 and an adsorption element 32. The transfer fixture 40 is disposed on the operating table 20 and is provided with a first positioning part 41 and a second positioning part 42. The first positioning part 41 is used to position a first workpiece, and the second positioning part 42 is used to cooperate with the positioning element 31 for positioning. The installation fixture 50 is disposed on the operating table 20 and is provided with a third positioning part 51 and a fourth positioning part 52. The third positioning part 51 is used to position a second workpiece, and the fourth positioning part 52 is used to cooperate with the positioning element 31 for positioning. The adsorption element 32 is used to pick up the first workpiece from the transfer fixture 40 and place it on the second workpiece of the installation fixture 50.

[0046] The assembly mechanism 100 places or installs a first workpiece onto a second workpiece, where the second workpiece can be the battery casing and the first workpiece can be the battery cell. The frame 10 can be a stand placed on the ground, made of aluminum alloy rods or PVC pipes. The operating table 20 is a support surface for placing tooling and devices. The mounting tool 50 is used to place the battery casing; specifically, the mounting tool 50 is provided with a third positioning part 51, which can cooperate with the structure on the casing for snap-fit ​​or positioning, used for installing and positioning the battery casing. The transfer tool 40 is provided with a first positioning part 41, which can cooperate with the structure on the cell for snap-fit ​​or positioning, used for installing and positioning the cell. Specifically, a cell positioning rod or cell positioning pin can be provided to cooperate with the cell for installation and positioning. In actual production, the battery cell can be manually placed onto the transfer fixture 40 to mate with the first positioning part 41, and the outer casing can be placed onto the mounting fixture 50 to mate with the third positioning part 51, thus completing the initial positioning. Alternatively, a robotic arm can be used to position the battery cell onto the transfer fixture 40 and then onto the mounting fixture 50, achieving fully automated operation. After installation, the suction component 32 of the material handling device 30 can be controlled to pick up the first workpiece from the transfer fixture 40 and place it onto the second workpiece on the mounting fixture 50. To improve installation accuracy, the applicant has designed a material handling device 30 including a positioning element 31 and a second positioning part 42 on a transfer fixture 40. When the material handling device 30 moves to the transfer fixture 40 and prepares to handle the material, it moves downward. At this time, the positioning element 31 first engages with the second positioning part 42. After engagement, the material handling device 30 can continue to move downward a certain distance or remain stationary to adsorb the first workpiece. When the gap between the adsorption element 32 and the first workpiece reaches a preset position, the adsorption element 32 is opened to adsorb and pick up the first workpiece. In this way, by first positioning and engaging the second positioning part 42 with the positioning element 31 before picking up the first workpiece, the picking position of the first workpiece can be controlled, or in other words, the position of the first workpiece on the adsorption element 32 can be controlled, which facilitates control over the installation accuracy of the subsequent installation onto the second workpiece. Meanwhile, the applicant also provides a fourth positioning part 52 on the mounting fixture 50. When the picking device 30 moves to the top of the mounting fixture 50 and moves downward toward the mounting fixture 50, the positioning part 31 will first cooperate with the fourth positioning part 52. Only when the positioning part 31 and the fourth positioning part 52 are accurately cooperated can the picking device 30 continue to move downward. At this time, the first workpiece and the second workpiece continue to approach each other, the adsorption part 32 disconnects and releases the first workpiece, and the first workpiece is placed on the second workpiece.By accurately cooperating with the positioning component 31 before placing the first workpiece, the falling position of the first workpiece can be precisely controlled. Furthermore, the initial positioning of the first workpiece by the first positioning component 41 and the positioning of the second workpiece by the third positioning component 51 improve the installation accuracy. Automated installation also increases efficiency. In addition, the use of the suction component 32 for picking up and placing during installation reduces the risk of scratching the battery casing during manual operation, thus minimizing appearance defects. This embodiment offers advantages such as high installation accuracy, high production efficiency, and reduced appearance defects. In some specific embodiments, the operating table 20 is also equipped with a material tray 60, which stores the first or second workpiece, and can hold multiple workpieces at a time.

[0047] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 In some embodiments, the material handling device 30 includes a support 33, a first rotary drive 34, a lifting member 35, a connecting arm 36, and a gripping assembly 303. The first rotary drive 34 is mounted on the support 33, the lifting member 35 is connected to the output shaft 341 of the first rotary drive 34, the connecting arm 36 is connected to the lifting member 35, and the gripping assembly 303 includes a base 37 and an adsorption member 32 and a positioning member 31 respectively mounted on the base 37. The base 37 is connected to the connecting arm 36.

[0048] The support 33 may include a horizontal plate 331 and a vertical plate 332 connected to each other, specifically, they may be perpendicular to each other. The horizontal plate 331 is mounted on the operating table 20, and the vertical plate 332 is fixedly mounted on the frame 10. Since all other components of the entire material handling device 30 are supported by the support 33, the vertical plate 332 mounted on the frame 10 can play a role in force balance and prevent the material handling device 30 from tipping over. The first rotary drive component 34 includes a cylinder and an output shaft 341 rotatably mounted on the cylinder. The output shaft 341, like the vertical plate 332, can be arranged in a vertical direction. The lifting component 35 is mounted on the output shaft 341 and can move up and down along the output shaft 341. The connecting arm 36 is mounted on the lifting component 35, thereby controlling the rotation and lifting movement of the connecting arm 36 to adjust the position of the gripping component 303, and further adjust the position of the adsorption component 32 and the positioning component 31. Specifically, the gripping component 303 includes a base 37, an adsorption component 32, and a positioning component 31. The base 37 serves as a connection and mounting component. The connecting arm 36 can be a horizontally positioned vertical arm. Compared to traditional components using six-axis robots and three-dimensional drive, this embodiment is cheaper and can reduce the manufacturing cost of the assembly structure.

[0049] Reference Figure 2In some embodiments, the lifting member 35 includes a hinge plate 351 and a sliding seat 352. The connecting arm 36 is mounted on the sliding seat 352, and the sliding seat 352 is slidably mounted on the output shaft 341. The hinge plate 351 includes a plate body and a hinge. The plate body is suspended from the top of the bracket 33, and one end of the hinge extends from the plate body and connects to the sliding seat 352.

[0050] The hinge disc 351 is similar to a gravity-balanced hinge, including a disc body and a hinge wrapped around the outer periphery of the disc body. A drive motor can also be installed, connected to the disc body, to control the extension length of the hinge, thereby controlling the position of the sliding seat 352. Specifically, the sliding seat 352 can slide on the output shaft 341. The disc body is positioned on top of the bracket 33, also above the sliding seat 352. One end of the hinge is connected to the sliding seat 352, providing a vertically upward pulling force. This tension from the hinge balances the weight of the sliding seat 352 and also counteracts or balances the weight of the lifting arm 36 and the gripping assembly 303, reducing the impact of gravity on the movement of the gripping assembly 303 and improving the ease and accuracy of movement. Simultaneously, the rotation of the disc body controls the length of the released hinge, thereby controlling the height of the sliding seat 352 and, consequently, the height of the gripping assembly 303.

[0051] Reference Figure 2 In some embodiments, the lifting member 35 further includes a guide rod 39, which is arranged parallel to the output shaft 341 and extends in the vertical direction. The sliding seat 352 includes a first seat and a second seat connected to each other. The first seat is slidably mounted on the output shaft 341, and the second seat is slidably mounted on the guide rod 39. The connecting arm 36 is mounted on the first seat or the second seat.

[0052] Like the output shaft 341, the guide rod 39 is parallel and extends vertically. In this example, the sliding seat 352 consists of two parts: a first seat and a second seat. The first seat is slidably mounted on the output shaft 341, and the second seat is slidably mounted on the guide rod 39. The first and second seats are connected to each other and move synchronously. To prevent the sliding seat 352 from moving beyond its limit, a limiting block 302 is provided near the first rotary drive member 34. The first limiting block 302 can be fixedly fitted onto the output shaft 341 and the guide rod 39. When the sliding seat 352 moves to a certain position, it will abut against the limiting block 302 and cannot continue to move downwards. The guide rod 39 controls the direction of movement of the sliding seat 352, ensuring that the adjustment direction is vertical. It also shares some of the torque with the output shaft 341, providing protection and reducing the risk of breakage of the output shaft 341. At the same time, the limit block 302 can prevent the sliding seat 352 from moving beyond the preset limit, which can also play a protective role.

[0053] Reference Figure 3 In some embodiments, the adsorption element 32 includes a vacuum generator, a suction cup 321, and a switch 322. The suction cup 321 is mounted on the base 37, the vacuum generator is connected to the suction cup 321, and the vacuum generator is signal connected to the switch 322.

[0054] The adsorption component 32 can employ vacuum adsorption. A vacuum generator is connected to the suction cup 321, used to extract air from the suction cup 321 to create negative pressure for adsorbing the first workpiece, or to introduce air into the suction cup 321 to release the first workpiece. The side of the vacuum suction cup 321 that adsorbs the first workpiece can be made of rubber. Vacuum adsorption better protects the appearance of the first workpiece and reduces the impact of poor appearance. For ease of control, a switch 322 can be connected to the vacuum generator to control its on / off operation.

[0055] Reference Figure 3 In some embodiments, the gripping component 303 further includes an elastic element and a slide bar 301, and the suction cup 321 includes a base 323 and an adsorption part. The base 323 is slidably mounted on the slide bar 301, and the two ends of the elastic element abut against the base 37 and the base 323 respectively.

[0056] The sliding rod 301 is generally arranged vertically. Multiple sliding rods 301 may be present, arranged in parallel. The base 323 can slide up and down along the sliding rod. The elastic element can be a spring. The base 37 may include an abutment plate 371. The base 323 and the abutment plate 371 are arranged in parallel. The sliding rod 301 passes through the abutment plate 371 and the base 323 in sequence. The two ends of the spring abut against the abutment plate 371 and the base 323 respectively. The abutment plate 371 is stationary. When the positioning member 31 engages with the first positioning part 41, as the gripping assembly 303 continues to move downwards, the suction part may come into contact with the first workpiece, resulting in an impact force. To reduce potential damage to the first workpiece, an elastic element is provided to act as a buffer. The elastic element contracts, causing the suction part to move upwards, reducing the contact force with the first workpiece.

[0057] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 In some embodiments, the positioning member 31 includes a positioning pin 311, which extends a certain distance from the suction cup 321. The second positioning part 42 includes a first positioning hole 421, and the fourth positioning part 52 includes a second positioning hole 521. After the positioning pin 311 is inserted and positioned in the first positioning hole 421, the suction cup 321 adsorbs the first workpiece. After the first positioning pin 311 is positioned in the second positioning hole 521, the suction cup 321 releases the first workpiece.

[0058] The positioning pin 311 is an extended rod-shaped component. The positioning pin 311 is positioned lower than the suction cup 321, or rather, its end is located below the suction cup 321. This is primarily to ensure that during the downward movement of the material handling device 30, the positioning pin 311 first engages with the first positioning hole 421. The engagement of the positioning pin 311 with the first positioning hole 421 indicates accurate positioning before the first workpiece is picked up. This ensures accurate positioning of the first workpiece on the suction member 32. Furthermore, the second positioning part 42 includes the first positioning hole 421. After the positioning pin 311 aligns with the first positioning hole 421, it continues to move downward a short distance before opening the suction member 32 to pick up the first workpiece. A first pressure sensor can be installed at the end of the positioning pin 311 or at the bottom of the first positioning hole 421. As the positioning pin 311 continues to extend into the first positioning hole 421, the contact pressure between the two gradually increases. When the value of the first pressure sensor increases to a certain preset value, it indicates that the positioning pin 311 has reached the preset position, and it also indicates that the distance between the suction cup 321 and the first workpiece has reached the preset target. The downward movement can then be stopped, and the vacuum generator can be turned on to adsorb the first workpiece. By setting the first pressure sensor, the distance between the suction cup 321 and the first workpiece can be controlled, which can reduce the risk of unstable adsorption due to excessive distance between the suction cup 321 and the first workpiece, and also reduce the risk of the suction cup 321 moving beyond its limit and damaging the first workpiece.

[0059] Similarly, after the first workpiece is adsorbed, the gripping component 303 moves towards the mounting fixture 50. When it reaches above the mounting fixture 50, it begins to move downwards towards the second workpiece. During the downward movement, the positioning pin 311 first engages with the second positioning hole 521. The engagement of the positioning pin 311 with the second positioning hole 521 indicates accurate positioning, and only then will the first workpiece be released. This ensures accurate positioning of the first workpiece's placement on the second workpiece. After the positioning pin 311 aligns with the second positioning hole 521, it continues to move downwards a short distance before the adsorption component 32 closes and releases the first workpiece. Similarly, a second pressure sensor can be installed at the bottom of the second positioning hole 521 or at the end of the positioning pin 311. Its function is similar to that described above: to strictly control the distance between the first and second workpieces, preventing excessive distance from damaging the second workpiece or insufficient distance from causing mutual crushing damage.

[0060] Furthermore, it should be noted that the number of positioning pins 311 can be two or more. When there are two positioning pins 311, the number of first positioning holes 421 and second positioning holes 521 are also two. The two positioning pins 311 can be respectively set on two opposite corners of the suction cup 321 to reduce the risk of one side tilting up.

[0061] Reference Figure 3 In some embodiments, the gripping component 303 further includes a second rotary drive 38, the base 37 includes a connecting seat and a mounting seat, the connecting arm 36 is connected to the connecting seat, the second rotary drive 38 is mounted on the connecting seat and connected to the mounting seat, and the adsorption member 32 and the positioning member 31 are disposed on the mounting seat.

[0062] The second rotary drive 38 may include a rotary motor for driving the mounting base connected thereto to rotate, thereby causing the adsorption member 32 and the positioning member 31 to rotate. The first rotary drive 34 is used to control the rotation of the adsorption member 32 and the positioning member 31 in a large space, while the second rotary drive 38 is used to control the fine adjustment of the adsorption member 32 and the positioning member 31 within a smaller range. The two work together to balance the needs of efficiency and accuracy.

[0063] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 In some embodiments, the mounting fixture 50 includes an upper fixture 53 and a lower fixture 54. The lower fixture 54 includes a base plate 541, a contour hole 542 disposed on the base plate 541, and a pre-pressing member 543 hinged to the base plate 541. The contour hole 542 is used to mount and position the second workpiece, and the pre-pressing member 543 is used to press the second workpiece. The upper fixture 53 includes a lifting drive member 531 and a pressing arm 532. The lifting drive member 531 is used to drive the pressing arm 532 to move toward the lower fixture 54 and thus press the second workpiece.

[0064] The third positioning part 51 can be a contour hole 542. The mounting fixture 50 is used to position and fix the second workpiece. For example, if the second workpiece is a battery casing, the protruding structure of the casing can be placed into the contour hole 542 to achieve the positioning of the casing. The pre-pressing part 543 can be a tongue-shaped pre-pressing plate. The pre-pressing plate is hinged to the base plate 541 and can rotate around the base plate 541. The pre-pressing plate is set close to the contour hole 542. When installing the casing, the upper fixture 53 can be raised first, and the pre-pressing plate can be rotated to open the pre-pressing plate, placing the protruding structure of the casing into the contour hole 542. Then the pre-pressing plate can be lowered and pressed on the casing, which can give the casing a pressing force against the base plate 541. Of course, a torsion spring can also be set so that the pre-pressing plate can automatically return to its original position to press the casing tightly. The upper fixture 53 includes a lifting drive 531 and a pressure arm 532. The pressure arm 532 can be a frame-like structure with a hollow center. The lifting drive 531 is used to drive the vertical movement. After the housing is installed on the lower fixture 54, the lifting drive 531 can drive the pressure arm 532 to move towards the housing, further pressing the housing. Specifically, there can be multiple pre-pressing components 543 to press the housing from multiple positions. The lower fixture 54 may also include a handle mounted on the base plate 541 for easy handling and movement of the lower fixture 54.

[0065] Reference Figure 5 In some embodiments, the lifting drive 531 includes a handle 5311, a mounting plate 5312, a movable plate 5313, and a support rod 5314. The handle 5311 is disposed on the mounting plate 5312 and connected to the movable plate 5313. The movable plate 5313 is slidably mounted on the support rod 5314, and the pressure arm 532 is mounted on the movable plate 5313.

[0066] The mounting plate 5312 has a through hole for part of the handle 5311 to pass through, so that the handle 5311 can be installed on the mounting plate 5312 and connected to the movable plate 5313. The movable plate 5313 and the mounting plate 5312 are arranged parallel to each other at intervals. By pressing the handle 5311, the movable plate 5313 can be pulled to move. The support rod 5314 provides guidance and limit for the movement of the movable plate 5313, so that the movable plate 5313 moves in the vertical direction. The pressure arm 532 is installed on the movable plate 5313. In this way, the handle 5311 can control the movement of the pressure arm 532 in the vertical direction to press or release the outer shell.

[0067] Reference Figure 5 In some embodiments, a preload roller 533 is provided on the pressure arm 532, which is used to roll and connect with the second workpiece.

[0068] The preload roller 533 can abut against the second workpiece to press the second workpiece, or it can abut against the preload component 543 to press the preload component 543. The way the roller is set can reduce the friction between the two through rolling friction.

[0069] In some embodiments, the material handling device 30 further includes an image recognition device and a controller. The image recognition device is used to acquire image information of the second positioning part 42 and the fourth positioning part 52 and send the image information to the controller. The controller acquires the position information of the second positioning part 42 and the fourth positioning part 52 according to the image information and generates control commands to control the positioning member 31 to cooperate with the second positioning part 42 or the fourth positioning part 52 for positioning.

[0070] When picking up the first workpiece, the image recognition device acquires image information of the second positioning part 42 and the transfer fixture 40, and transmits the image information to the controller. The controller can obtain the position information of the second positioning part 42 based on the image information, and determine whether the positioning part 31 is aligned with the second positioning part 42 by combining the coordinate information of the positioning part 31. If they are not aligned, the controller moves the positioning part 31 to change its coordinate position. If they are aligned, the controller moves the positioning part 31 downward to engage with the second positioning part 42. Similarly, when placing the first workpiece onto the mounting fixture 50, the image recognition device acquires image information of the fourth positioning part 52 and the mounting fixture 50, and transmits the image information to the controller. The controller can obtain the position information of the fourth positioning part 52 based on the image information, and determine whether the positioning part 31 is aligned with the fourth positioning part 52 by combining the coordinate information of the positioning part 31. If they are not aligned, the controller moves the positioning part 31 to change its coordinate position. If they are aligned, the controller moves the positioning part 31 downward to engage with the fourth positioning part 52. This embodiment can automatically adjust the position of the positioning member 31 to ensure accurate matching between the positioning member 31 and the second positioning part 42 and the fourth positioning part 52.

[0071] Reference Figure 7 , Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the first embodiment of the present invention. The present invention provides a battery assembly method applied to the assembly mechanism 100 described above. The battery assembly method includes:

[0072] S100, the first workpiece is placed in the first positioning part 41 of the transfer fixture 40, and the second workpiece is placed in the third positioning part 51 of the mounting fixture 50.

[0073] As mentioned above, the first workpiece can be a battery cell, the second workpiece can be a casing, the first positioning part 41 is used to position the first workpiece, and the third positioning part 51 is used to position the second workpiece.

[0074] S200, the control positioning component 31 cooperates with the second positioning part 42 of the transfer tooling 40 for positioning, and the control adsorption component 32 opens to pick up the first workpiece.

[0075] Here, the positioning element 31 can be a positioning pin 311, and the second positioning part 42 can include a first positioning hole 421. The positioning pin 311 refers to an extended rod-like object. The positioning pin 311 is positioned lower than the suction cup 321, or in other words, the end of the positioning pin 311 is positioned lower than the suction cup 321. This is mainly so that during the downward movement of the material handling device 30, the positioning pin 311 can first engage with the first positioning hole 421. The engagement of the positioning pin 311 with the first positioning hole 421 indicates accurate positioning before the first workpiece is picked up. This ensures accurate positioning of the first workpiece on the suction element 32. Furthermore, the second positioning part 42 includes the first positioning hole 421. After the positioning pin 311 is aligned with the first positioning hole 421, it continues to move downward a short distance before the suction element 32 opens to pick up the first workpiece. A first pressure sensor can be installed at the end of the positioning pin 311 or at the bottom of the first positioning hole 421. As the positioning pin 311 continues to extend into the first positioning hole 421, the contact pressure between the two gradually increases. When the value of the first pressure sensor reaches a certain preset value, it indicates that the positioning pin 311 has reached the preset position, and it also indicates that the distance between the suction cup 321 and the first workpiece has reached the preset target. The downward movement can then be stopped, and the vacuum generator can be turned on to pick up the first workpiece. In other words, after the step of controlling the positioning member 31 and the second positioning part 42 to cooperate in positioning, and between the step of controlling the suction member 32 to start picking up the first workpiece, the following step can also be included: receiving the pressure signal sent by the first pressure sensor, and when the pressure signal reaches the first preset value, controlling the suction member 32 to start picking up the first workpiece. By setting the first pressure sensor, the distance between the suction cup 321 and the first workpiece can be controlled, which can reduce the risk of unstable suction due to excessive distance between the suction cup 321 and the first workpiece, and also reduce the risk of the suction cup 321 moving too far and damaging the first workpiece.

[0076] S300, the control positioning member 31 cooperates with the fourth positioning part 52 of the mounting fixture 50 for positioning, and the control adsorption member 32 closes and releases the first workpiece so as to place the first workpiece on the second workpiece.

[0077] After the first workpiece is adsorbed, the picking device 30 moves towards the mounting fixture 50. When it moves above the mounting fixture 50, it begins to move downwards towards the second workpiece. During the downward movement, the positioning pin 311 first engages with the second positioning hole 521. The engagement of the positioning pin 311 with the second positioning hole 521 indicates accurate positioning, and the first workpiece is released. This ensures accurate positioning of the first workpiece on the second workpiece. After the positioning pin 311 aligns with the second positioning hole 521, it continues to move downwards a short distance before closing the adsorption member 32 and releasing the first workpiece. Similarly, a second pressure sensor can be installed at the bottom of the second positioning hole 521 or at the end of the positioning pin 311. That is, between the step of controlling the positioning member 31 to engage with the fourth positioning part 52 for positioning and the step of controlling the adsorption member 32 to close and release the first workpiece, the following step is also included: receiving a pressure signal sent by the second pressure sensor. When the pressure signal reaches a second preset value, the adsorption member 32 is controlled to close the first workpiece. The function of the second pressure sensor is similar to that described in the previous paragraph: to strictly control the distance between the first and second workpieces, so as to avoid the second workpiece being damaged by excessive distance or the first and second workpieces being crushed by excessive distance.

[0078] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit them. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. These modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, and they should all be covered within the scope of the claims and specification of the present invention. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the various technical features mentioned in the embodiments can be combined in any way. The present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An assembly mechanism, characterized in that, include: frame, An operating console is mounted on the frame; A material handling device, wherein the material handling device is provided with a positioning component and an adsorption component, the positioning component includes a positioning pin, the adsorption component includes a suction cup, and the positioning pin extends out of the suction cup by a certain distance; The material handling device includes a bracket, a first rotary drive, a lifting component, a connecting arm, and a gripping assembly. The first rotary drive is mounted on the bracket. The lifting component includes a hinge plate and a sliding seat. The connecting arm is mounted on the sliding seat. The sliding seat is slidably mounted on the output shaft of the first rotary drive. The hinge plate includes a plate body and a hinge. The plate body is suspended from the top of the bracket. One end of the hinge extends from the plate body and connects to the sliding seat to provide the sliding seat with a vertically upward pulling force. A transfer fixture is provided on the operating table. The transfer fixture is provided with a first positioning part and a second positioning part. The first positioning part is used to position the first workpiece. The second positioning part includes a first positioning hole, which is used to cooperate with the positioning component for positioning. An installation fixture is provided on the operating table. The installation fixture is provided with a third positioning part and a fourth positioning part. The third positioning part is used to position the second workpiece. The fourth positioning part includes a second positioning hole, which is used to cooperate with the positioning component for positioning. The end of the positioning pin is provided with a first pressure sensor and a second pressure sensor. After the positioning pin is engaged with the first positioning hole for positioning, when the value of the first pressure sensor increases to a certain preset value, the suction cup adsorbs the first workpiece from the transfer fixture; and after the positioning pin is engaged with the second positioning hole for positioning, when the value of the second pressure sensor reaches a second preset value, the suction cup releases the first workpiece and places it on the second workpiece of the mounting fixture.

2. The assembly mechanism as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The material handling device includes a gripping assembly, which includes a base and an adsorption element and a positioning element respectively mounted on the base. The base is connected to the connecting arm.

3. The assembly mechanism as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The lifting component also includes a guide rod, which is arranged parallel to the output shaft and extends vertically. The sliding seat includes a first seat and a second seat connected to each other. The first seat is slidably mounted on the output shaft, and the second seat is slidably mounted on the guide rod. The connecting arm is mounted on the first seat or the second seat.

4. The assembly mechanism as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The adsorption component includes a vacuum generator, the suction cup, and a switch. The suction cup is mounted on the base, the vacuum generator is connected to the suction cup, and the vacuum generator is signal-connected to the switch.

5. The assembly mechanism as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The gripping assembly further includes an elastic element and a sliding rod. The suction cup includes a base and an adsorption part. The base is slidably mounted on the sliding rod. The two ends of the elastic element abut against the base and the base respectively.

6. The assembly mechanism as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The gripping assembly further includes a second rotary drive component. The base includes a connecting seat and a mounting seat. The connecting arm is connected to the connecting seat. The second rotary drive component is mounted on the connecting seat and connected to the mounting seat. The suction component and the positioning component are disposed on the mounting seat.

7. The assembly mechanism as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The mounting fixture includes an upper fixture and a lower fixture. The lower fixture includes a base plate, a contour hole provided on the base plate, and a pre-pressing member hinged to the base plate. The contour hole is used to install the second workpiece, and the pre-pressing member is used to press the second workpiece. The upper fixture includes a lifting drive and a pressing arm. The lifting drive is used to drive the pressing arm to move toward the lower fixture and thus press the second workpiece.

8. The assembly mechanism as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The lifting drive component includes a handle, a mounting plate, a movable plate, and a support rod. The handle is disposed on the mounting plate and connected to the movable plate. The movable plate is slidably mounted on the support rod, and the pressure arm is mounted on the movable plate.

9. The assembly mechanism as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The pressure arm is equipped with a pre-pressure roller, which is used to roll and connect with the second workpiece.

10. The assembly mechanism as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The material handling device further includes an image recognition device and a controller. The image recognition device is used to acquire image information of the second positioning part and the fourth positioning part, and send the image information to the controller. The controller acquires the position information of the second positioning part and the fourth positioning part based on the image information, and generates control commands to control the positioning element to cooperate with the second positioning part or the fourth positioning part for positioning.

11. A battery assembly method, characterized in that, The battery assembly method, applied to the assembly mechanism of any one of claims 1 to 10, comprises: The first workpiece is placed in the first positioning part of the transfer fixture, and the second workpiece is placed in the third positioning part of the installation fixture. The control positioning component cooperates with the second positioning part of the transfer tooling for positioning. After the positioning pin is inserted into the first positioning hole for positioning, when the value of the first pressure sensor increases to a certain preset value, the control adsorption component opens to pick up the first workpiece. The positioning component is controlled to cooperate with the fourth positioning part of the mounting fixture for positioning. After the positioning pin cooperates with the second positioning hole for positioning, when the value of the second pressure sensor reaches the second preset value, the adsorption component is controlled to close and release the first workpiece so as to place the first workpiece on the second workpiece.

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