Formation negative pressure system and control method thereof

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention discloses a formation negative pressure system and a control method thereof, and relates to the technical field of battery production. The formation negative pressure system comprises a first positive pressure air source, a negative pressure source and a negative pressure module. The first positive pressure gas source is configured to provide dry gas. The negative pressure module comprises an air tap. One end of the air tap is selectively communicated with the first positive pressure air source or the negative pressure source, and the other end of the air tap is matched with the liquid injection hole of the battery monomer. And the negative pressure source is configured to vacuumize the battery monomers through the air nozzles. According to the formation negative pressure system provided by the embodiment of the invention, a small-range dry gas protection layer can be conveniently formed around the liquid injection hole of the battery monomer through the first positive pressure gas source, and through the dry gas protection layer, even if a formation workshop is in a high-humidity environment, water vapor basically does not flow into the battery monomer; the whole formation workshop does not need to be dehumidified by a dehumidification system, so that the production energy consumption of the battery monomers is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of battery production technology, and in particular to a formation negative pressure system and a control method thereof. Background Art

[0002] Batteries are increasingly being used in everyday life and production. For example, new energy vehicles equipped with batteries are already widely used, and batteries can be used to fully or partially power these vehicles. Furthermore, batteries are increasingly being used in areas such as energy storage.

[0003] Currently, during the manufacturing process of batteries, in order to improve the performance of the batteries, the batteries need to be subjected to a formation treatment. In the related art, the energy consumption of the batteries during the formation process is relatively high. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, the embodiments of the present application hope to provide a formation negative pressure system and a control method thereof, aiming to reduce the energy consumption during the formation process of battery cells.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, in a first aspect, embodiments of the present application provide a negative pressure forming system, comprising:

[0006] a first positive pressure gas source configured to provide dry gas;

[0007] Negative pressure source;

[0008] The negative pressure module includes an air nozzle, one end of which can be selectively connected to the first positive pressure air source or the negative pressure source, and the other end is configured to cooperate with the liquid injection hole of the battery cell. The negative pressure source is configured to be able to vacuum the battery cell through the air nozzle.

[0009] In the above technical solution, a small-scale dry gas protective layer can be formed around the liquid injection hole of the battery cell through the first positive-pressure gas source. When the dry gas protective layer is formed around the liquid injection hole, the switch valve of the battery cell is opened and the gas nozzle is sealed and fitted with the liquid injection hole. Through this dry gas protective layer, even if the formation workshop is in a high-humidity environment, water vapor will basically not flow into the interior of the battery cell, that is, there is no need for a dehumidification system to dehumidify the entire formation workshop, which is beneficial to reducing the production energy consumption of the battery cell.

[0010] In one embodiment, the negative pressure system further includes a pipeline assembly, the pipeline assembly including a first air circuit, a second air circuit and a valve unit, the first positive pressure air source is connected to the air nozzle through the first air circuit, the negative pressure source is connected to the air nozzle through the second air circuit, and the valve unit is arranged on the first air circuit and the second air circuit, and can respectively open or cut off the first air circuit and the second air circuit.

[0011] In the above technical solution, the first gas path and the second gas path are respectively opened or cut off by the valve unit, which is beneficial to improving the automation level of the formation negative pressure system, reducing the manual operation steps of the battery cell in the formation process, and is beneficial to improving the formation efficiency of the battery cell.

[0012] In one embodiment, the valve unit includes a first air-controlled valve provided on the first air path, and the pipeline assembly further includes a first control assembly, which is configured to control the first air-controlled valve to switch to an on state or an off state.

[0013] In the above technical solution, the first gas path is controlled to be open or shut off by the first gas-controlled valve, and the first gas-controlled valve is not energized, thereby avoiding the risk of ignition or even explosion of flammable and explosive gases such as hydrogen remaining in the first gas path, which is beneficial to improving the safety of the negative pressure system.

[0014] In one embodiment, the first control component includes a first solenoid valve, a third air circuit and a second positive pressure air source, the second positive pressure air source is connected to the first air control valve through the third air circuit, and the first solenoid valve is arranged on the third air circuit.

[0015] In the above technical solution, the first solenoid valve is used to open or cut off the gas delivery path from the second positive pressure gas source to the first gas control valve, which facilitates the control of the first gas control valve and is conducive to improving the automation level of the negative pressure system.

[0016] In one embodiment, the valve unit includes a second air-controlled valve arranged on the second air path, and the pipeline assembly further includes a second control assembly, which is configured to control the second air-controlled valve to switch to an on state or an off state.

[0017] In the above technical solution, the conduction or disconnection of the second gas path is controlled by the second gas-controlled valve, and the second gas-controlled valve is not energized, thereby avoiding the risk of flammable gases such as hydrogen remaining in the second gas being ignited or even exploded, which is beneficial to improving the safety of the negative pressure system.

[0018] In one embodiment, the second control component includes a second solenoid valve, a fourth air circuit and a third positive pressure air source, the third positive pressure air source is connected to the second air control valve through the fourth air circuit, and the second solenoid valve is arranged on the fourth air circuit.

[0019] In the above technical solution, the second solenoid valve is used to open or cut off the gas delivery path from the third positive pressure gas source to the second gas control valve, which facilitates the control of the second gas control valve and is conducive to improving the automation level of the negative pressure system.

[0020] In one embodiment, the pipeline assembly further includes a gas-liquid separator, and the gas-liquid separator is disposed on the second gas path.

[0021] In the above technical solution, a gas-liquid separator is provided to separate the waste gas and the scrapped electrolyte. On the one hand, the risk of the electrolyte entering other components of the formation negative pressure system is reduced, which is beneficial to improving the overall service life of the formation negative pressure system; on the other hand, the risk of the scrapped electrolyte flowing back into the battery cell is reduced, which is beneficial to improving the reliability of the battery cell.

[0022] In one embodiment, the pipeline assembly further includes a liquid storage component and a liquid drain valve. The liquid storage component is connected to the gas-liquid separator and is configured to collect the liquid separated by the gas-liquid separator. The liquid drain valve is disposed on the liquid storage component and is configured to be able to conduct or switch the liquid discharge path of the liquid storage component to the outside.

[0023] In the above technical solution, by setting up a liquid storage part and a drain valve, it is convenient to collect the electrolyte separated by the gas-liquid separator, thereby facilitating the unified discharge and treatment of the electrolyte. There is no need to treat the electrolyte separated by the gas-liquid separator at any time, which is conducive to simplifying the treatment process.

[0024] In one embodiment, the negative pressure module also includes a shell having a hollow cavity, and there are multiple air nozzles, each of which is arranged on the shell and connected to the hollow cavity, and the hollow cavity can be selectively connected to the first positive pressure air source or the negative pressure source.

[0025] In the above technical solution, by setting up a hollow cavity, on the one hand, it is convenient to set up multiple air nozzles on a negative pressure module, so that the negative pressure module can simultaneously perform formation treatment on multiple battery cells; on the other hand, when the battery cells are undergoing formation treatment, under the action of the negative pressure source, the extracted electrolyte can enter the hollow cavity, and each air nozzle does not need to be separately provided with a negative pressure cup, thereby reducing the number of parts to be cleaned, which is conducive to reducing the cost of manual cleaning.

[0026] In one embodiment, the formation negative pressure system further includes a frame, the negative pressure module is disposed on the frame, and the installation position of the gas nozzle on the frame is adjustable.

[0027] In the above technical solution, by setting the gas nozzle to have an adjustable installation position on the frame, the gas nozzle can be moved to multiple installation positions, thereby facilitating the sealing fit of the gas nozzle with the liquid injection holes of battery cells of various models and sizes, which is conducive to improving the versatility of the formation negative pressure system.

[0028] In one embodiment, the frame is provided with a plurality of mounting positions arranged along a first direction, and the air nozzle can be installed at any of the mounting positions.

[0029] In the above technical solution, by providing a plurality of installation positions arranged along the first direction, the installation of the air nozzle on the frame is facilitated, and at the same time, the installation position of the air nozzle on the frame is adjustable.

[0030] In one embodiment, the negative pressure module further includes a first limit member and a second limit member spaced apart along a second direction on the air nozzle, at least a portion of the frame is clamped between the first limit member and the second limit member, a clamping portion is provided on the first limit member, and the first limit member can move along the second direction so that the clamping portion can be clamped in the mounting position or separated from the mounting position, wherein the second direction intersects with the first direction.

[0031] In the above technical solution, movement along the second direction is generated only by controlling the first limit member. While being able to connect or separate the air nozzle from one installation position, the air nozzle can also be moved along the first direction and to another installation position, thereby improving the convenience of the air nozzle installation and switching installation position operations.

[0032] In one embodiment, one of the installation position and the clamping portion is a groove, and the other is a protrusion, and the protrusion extends along the second direction.

[0033] In the above technical solution, the clamping method of the protrusion and the groove is relatively simple, which is conducive to the clamping or separation of the clamping part with the installation position.

[0034] In one embodiment, a slide groove extending along the first direction is provided on the frame, and the air nozzle is movably arranged in the slide groove along the first direction.

[0035] In the above technical solution, when the air nozzle moves along the first direction to switch between multiple installation positions, the slide groove can provide a guide for the movement of the air nozzle, thereby facilitating the air nozzle to move to the installation position to be installed.

[0036] In one embodiment, the negative pressure module also includes a first elastic return member. Under the action of external force, the first limiting member can move along the second direction to separate the clamping portion from the mounting position, and the first elastic return member produces elastic deformation, and the first elastic return member restores the elastic deformation to enable the clamping portion to be clamped with the mounting position.

[0037] In the above technical solution, through the first elastic return member, on the one hand, the reliability of the connection between the clamping part and the installation position can be made higher. On the other hand, after the first elastic return member produces elastic deformation, it can provide a certain elastic force. Under the action of this elastic force, the clamping part can be easily connected to the installation position, which is convenient for the operator to operate.

[0038] In one embodiment, the negative pressure module also includes a second elastic return member. Under the action of external force, the second limiting member can move along the second direction and separate from the frame, and the second elastic return member produces elastic deformation, and the second elastic return member restores the elastic deformation so that the second limiting member abuts against the frame.

[0039] In the above technical solution, the second limiting member is abutted against the frame through the second elastic return member. On the one hand, the second elastic return member can produce elastic deformation, thereby facilitating the second limiting member to release the limiting relationship with the frame along the second direction, and then facilitating the movement of the air nozzle to any installation position; on the other hand, the second elastic return member can abut the second limiting member against the frame in the reset state, thereby improving the installation stability of the air nozzle on the frame.

[0040] In a second aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a control method for a formation negative pressure system, wherein the formation negative pressure system includes a control module, a first positive pressure gas source, a negative pressure source, and a negative pressure module, wherein the negative pressure module includes a gas nozzle, and the control method includes:

[0041] In response to the battery cell entering the formation process, the control module controls the gas nozzle to communicate with the first positive pressure gas source, and controls the first positive pressure gas source to deliver dry gas to the gas nozzle, and the delivery time of the dry gas is a first preset time;

[0042] The control module controls the first positive pressure air source and the air nozzle to switch to a disconnected state;

[0043] The control module controls the gas nozzle to be sealed and fitted with the liquid injection hole of the battery cell;

[0044] The control module controls the gas nozzle to be connected to the negative pressure source, and the negative pressure source evacuates the battery cell to start formation.

[0045] In the above technical solution, by supplying dry gas to the battery cell, a dry gas protective layer is formed around the liquid injection hole of the battery cell. When the dry gas protective layer is formed, the on-off valve of the battery cell is opened, and the gas nozzle and the liquid injection hole are quickly sealed. Through this dry gas protective layer, even if the formation workshop is in a high-humidity environment, water vapor will basically not flow into the interior of the battery cell, that is, there is no need for a dehumidification system to dehumidify the entire formation workshop, which is beneficial to reducing the production energy consumption of the battery cell.

[0046] In one embodiment, the first preset time ranges from 10s to 30s.

[0047] In the above technical solution, by controlling the range of the first preset time within the range of 10s to 30s, on the one hand, the first preset time is at least 10s, that is, the first positive pressure gas source can deliver dry gas for at least 10s, which is conducive to forming a small-scale dry gas protective layer at the injection hole of the battery cell; on the other hand, the first preset time is at most 30s, so that while ensuring the formation of the dry gas protective layer, it will not take up too much time, thereby reasonably controlling the time required for the entire formation process of the battery cell, which is conducive to improving the production efficiency of the battery cell.

[0048] In one embodiment, the control method further includes:

[0049] After confirming that the formation process of the battery cell is completed, the control module controls the gas nozzle to maintain a connection state with the negative pressure source, and controls the gas nozzle to be separated from the liquid injection hole of the battery cell.

[0050] In the above technical solution, after the gas nozzle is separated from the liquid injection hole of the battery cell, dry gas is blown into the gas nozzle through the first positive pressure gas source to blow out the residual electrolyte in the gas nozzle, which is beneficial to reduce pollution of the gas nozzle.

[0051] In one embodiment, after confirming that the formation process of the battery cell is completed, the control module controls the gas nozzle to maintain communication with the negative pressure source and controls the gas nozzle to separate from the liquid injection hole of the battery cell, and the control method further includes:

[0052] The control module controls the gas nozzle to be connected to the first positive pressure gas source, and controls the first positive pressure gas source to deliver dry gas to the gas nozzle, and the delivery time of the dry gas is a second preset time.

[0053] In the above technical solution, by keeping the gas nozzle connected to the negative pressure source, the hydrogen and other gases generated by the battery cell during the entire formation process can be extracted by the negative pressure source as much as possible, thereby reducing the possibility of this part of the gas remaining in the battery cell as much as possible, and further reducing the risk of adverse effects on the performance of the battery cell.

[0054] In one embodiment, the second preset time ranges from 5s to 10s.

[0055] In the above technical solution, by controlling the range of the second preset time within the range of 5s to 0s, on the one hand, the second preset time is at least 5s, that is, after the formation process of the previous batch of battery cells is completed, the first positive pressure gas source delivers dry gas to the gas nozzle for at least 5s, which is conducive to blowing out the electrolyte in the gas nozzle; on the other hand, the second preset time is at most 10s, so that while ensuring that the gas nozzle can blow out the electrolyte, it does not take up too much blowing time, so that the formation process of the next batch of battery cells can be carried out quickly, which is conducive to improving the production efficiency of battery cells. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0056] Figure 1 This is a schematic structural diagram of a negative pressure forming system according to a first embodiment of the present application;

[0057] Figure 2 This is a schematic structural diagram of a negative pressure forming system according to a second embodiment of the present application;

[0058] Figure 3 This is a schematic structural diagram of a negative pressure forming system according to a third embodiment of the present application;

[0059] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the installation structure of the negative pressure module and the frame according to one embodiment of the present application;

[0060] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A in the middle is an enlarged schematic diagram;

[0061] Figure 6 Flowchart of a control method of a negative pressure forming system according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0062] Description of Reference Numerals

[0063] 100. Negative pressure system; 10. First positive pressure gas source; 20. Negative pressure source; 30. Negative pressure module; 31. Gas nozzle; 32. Housing; 32a. Hollow cavity; 33. First position limiter; 33a. Clamping portion; 34. Second position limiter; 35. First elastic return member; 36. Second elastic return member; 40. Pipeline assembly; 41. First gas path; 42. Second gas path; 43. Valve unit; 431. First air control valve; 432 , second air-controlled valve; 44, first control component; 441, first solenoid valve; 442, third air path; 443, second positive-pressure air source; 45, second control component; 451, second solenoid valve; 452, fourth air path; 453, third positive-pressure air source; 46, gas-liquid separator; 47, liquid storage component; 48, drain valve; 49, liquid level sensor; 50, frame; 50a, mounting position; 50b, slide; 200, battery cell. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0064] In order to make the purpose, technical solutions and advantages of the embodiments of the present application clearer, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be clearly described below in conjunction with the drawings in the embodiments of the present application. The following embodiments are only used to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the present application and are therefore only used as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present application. Based on the embodiments in the present application, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative work are within the scope of protection of the present application.

[0065] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the technical terms "first," "second," "third," etc. are used only to distinguish different objects and should not be understood to indicate or imply relative importance or implicitly specify the quantity, specific order, or primary and secondary relationship of the indicated technical features. In the description of the embodiments of this application, the meaning of "plurality" is more than two, unless otherwise specifically defined.

[0066] References herein to "embodiments" mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiments may be included in at least one embodiment of the present application. The appearance of this phrase in various places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor does it constitute an independent or alternative embodiment that is mutually exclusive of other embodiments. It is understood, both explicitly and implicitly, by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein may be combined with other embodiments.

[0067] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the term "and / or" is simply a description of the association relationship between associated objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent the following three situations: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone. In addition, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the associated objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0068] In the description of the embodiments of the present application, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, technical terms such as "installed," "connected," "connect," and "fixed" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, they can refer to fixed connections, detachable connections, or integration; mechanical connections or electrical connections; direct connections or indirect connections through an intermediate medium; internal connections between two components or interactions between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meanings of the above terms in the embodiments of the present application based on specific circumstances.

[0069] In the description of the embodiments of the present application, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the technical term "contact" should be understood in a broad sense, and can be direct contact, contact through an intermediate medium layer, contact with essentially no interaction force between the two contacting parties, or contact with interaction force between the two contacting parties.

[0070] Below, this application is described in detail.

[0071] The negative pressure formation system and the control method of the negative pressure formation system provided in the embodiments of the present application are both used for the production of the battery of the present application. In order to make the negative pressure formation system and the control method of the negative pressure formation system of the present application clearer, before describing the negative pressure formation system and the control method of the negative pressure formation system of the present application, the battery of the present application is first introduced.

[0072] The batteries provided in the embodiments of the present application can be used individually. Multiple batteries can also be grouped together to form a battery pack. The batteries and battery packs can be used, but are not limited to, in electrical devices. Electrical devices include, but are not limited to, mobile phones, tablets, laptops, electric toys, power tools, vehicles, ships, or spacecraft. Spacecraft can include aircraft, rockets, space shuttles, and spacecraft, among others.

[0073] Taking the electric device of one embodiment of the present application as a vehicle as an example, the vehicle can be a fuel vehicle, a gas vehicle or a new energy vehicle. The new energy vehicle can be a pure electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle or an extended-range vehicle, etc. A battery is provided inside the vehicle, and the battery can be provided at the bottom of the vehicle or at the front or rear of the vehicle. The battery can be used to power the vehicle, for example, the battery can be used as the operating power source of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the battery can not only serve as the operating power source of the vehicle, but also as the driving power source of the vehicle, replacing or partially replacing fuel or natural gas to provide driving power for the vehicle.

[0074] The battery can be a lithium-ion battery, a sodium-lithium-ion battery, a lithium metal battery, or a lithium-sulfur battery, etc., which is not limited in the embodiments of the present application.

[0075] A battery includes at least one battery cell. A battery cell is the battery's energy storage component. The battery also includes a battery monitoring and management device for monitoring the battery cell's charge level and other parameters.

[0076] In a battery, there can be multiple battery cells, which can be connected in series, parallel, or in a hybrid configuration. A hybrid configuration refers to multiple battery cells being connected both in series and in parallel. Multiple battery cells can be directly connected in series, parallel, or in a hybrid configuration. Of course, a battery can also be constructed by first connecting multiple battery cells in series, parallel, or in a hybrid configuration to form a battery module, and then connecting multiple battery modules in series, parallel, or in a hybrid configuration to form a whole.

[0077] In the embodiment of the present application, the battery cell may be a secondary battery cell. A secondary battery cell refers to a battery cell that can be continuously used by activating active materials by charging after the battery cell is discharged.

[0078] The battery cell may be a cylindrical battery cell, a prismatic battery cell or a battery cell of other shapes. Prismatic battery cells include square-shell battery cells or multi-prismatic battery cells, such as hexagonal battery cells, etc., and there is no particular limitation in this application.

[0079] The internal cavity of a battery cell is used to house the electrode assembly and electrolyte. For example, a battery cell comprises a housing, an electrode assembly, and an electrolyte, with the electrode assembly and electrolyte being housed within the housing. The housing encapsulates the electrode assembly, electrolyte, and other components. The housing is provided with an injection port, through which the electrolyte is injected into the internal cavity.

[0080] The battery cell provided in the embodiments of the present application further includes an on-off valve, which is disposed at the liquid injection hole to enable opening and closing of the internal cavity of the battery cell. The on-off valve can be opened and closed by an external force. The on-off valve can be opened by pressing the external force, and can be closed by its own elasticity after the external force is removed.

[0081] During the battery cell production process, the cells undergo a formation process. This refers to the initial charging process to activate the battery. This process is typically performed with the on-off valve open. Since the on-off valve remains open for extended periods, moisture can enter the internal cavity through the injection hole.

[0082] In the related art, a dehumidification system is generally used to dehumidify the entire formation workshop so that the environment in the entire formation workshop is in a low humidity state, thereby reducing the possibility of water vapor entering the internal cavity of the battery monomer through the injection hole during the formation process. However, the overall space of the formation workshop is relatively large, and the dehumidification system requires high-intensity work, which makes the energy consumption of the battery monomer relatively high during the production process.

[0083] In view of this, a first aspect of an embodiment of the present application provides a formation negative pressure system. The formation negative pressure system includes a first positive pressure gas source, a negative pressure source, and a negative pressure module. The first positive pressure gas source is configured to provide dry gas. The negative pressure module includes a gas nozzle. One end of the gas nozzle can selectively connect to the first positive pressure gas source or the negative pressure source, and the other end is configured to cooperate with the injection hole of the battery cell. The negative pressure source is configured to be able to vacuum the battery cell through the gas nozzle.

[0084] In this technical solution, before the battery cell is formed, the gas nozzle is connected to a first positive-pressure gas source. This first positive-pressure gas source delivers dry gas to the battery cell, forming a protective layer of dry gas around the liquid injection hole. The battery cell's on / off valve is then opened, sealing the gas nozzle against the liquid injection hole. During the formation process, the gas nozzle is connected to a negative-pressure source. This eliminates the need for a dehumidification system to dehumidify the entire formation room, thereby reducing energy consumption in battery cell production.

[0085] Some embodiments of the present application are further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0086] Please also refer to Figures 1 to 3 The negative pressure forming system 100 includes a first positive pressure gas source 10, a negative pressure source 20, and a negative pressure module 30. The first positive pressure gas source 10 is configured to provide dry gas. The negative pressure module 30 includes a gas nozzle 31. One end of the gas nozzle 31 can selectively connect to the first positive pressure gas source 10 or the negative pressure source 20, and the other end is configured to cooperate with the injection hole of the battery cell 200. The negative pressure source 20 is configured to vacuum the battery cell 200 through the gas nozzle 31.

[0087] The first positive pressure gas source 10 is a component capable of providing positive pressure dry gas. In some embodiments, the first positive pressure gas source 10 can be an air pump that pumps out dry gas.

[0088] The negative pressure source 20 is a component capable of providing negative pressure. In some embodiments, the negative pressure source 20 can be a negative pressure pump.

[0089] One end of the air nozzle 31 can be selectively connected to the first positive-pressure air source 10 or the negative-pressure air source 20. This means that the air nozzle 31 can be connected to the first positive-pressure air source 10 but not to the negative-pressure air source 20. Alternatively, the air nozzle 31 can be connected to the negative-pressure air source 20 but not to the first positive-pressure air source 10. Of course, the air nozzle 31 can also be disconnected from both the first positive-pressure air source 10 and the negative-pressure air source 20.

[0090] When the air nozzle 31 is connected to the first positive-pressure air source 10 , the first positive-pressure air source 10 can spray dry air through the air nozzle 31 .

[0091] When the air nozzle 31 is connected to the negative pressure source 20, the negative pressure source 20 can vacuum other components through the air nozzle 31. For example, after the air nozzle 31 is sealed and attached to the injection hole of the battery cell 200, the interior of the battery cell 200 can be vacuumed.

[0092] It should be noted that during the formation treatment of the battery cell 200, gas will be generated inside the battery cell 200. The gas remaining inside the battery cell 200 can easily cause the battery cell 200 to expand and deform, thereby adversely affecting the performance of the battery cell 200. Therefore, when the battery cell 200 is subjected to the formation treatment, the gas inside the battery cell 200 needs to be extracted.

[0093] In the negative pressure formation system of the embodiment of the present application, before the battery cell 200 is subjected to the formation treatment, the gas nozzle 31 is first connected to the first positive pressure gas source 10. The first positive pressure gas source 10 delivers dry gas to the battery cell 200 through the gas nozzle 31, so that a small dry gas protection layer can be formed around the injection hole. When the dry gas protection layer is formed, the switch valve is opened and the gas nozzle 31 and the injection hole are quickly sealed. After the gas nozzle 31 is connected to the negative pressure source 20, the interior of the battery cell 200 can be vacuumed, and the battery cell 200 enters the formation treatment process.

[0094] The air nozzle 31 is sealed against the liquid injection hole to perform vacuuming, thereby effectively reducing the risk of electrolyte overflow.

[0095] In the above technical solution, a small-scale dry gas protective layer can be formed around the injection hole of the battery cell 200 through the first positive-pressure gas source 10. When the dry gas protective layer is formed around the injection hole, the switch valve of the battery cell 200 is opened and the gas nozzle 31 is sealed and fitted with the injection hole. Through this dry gas protective layer, even if the formation workshop is in a high-humidity environment, water vapor will basically not flow into the interior of the battery cell 200, that is, there is no need for a dehumidification system to dehumidify the entire formation workshop, which is beneficial to reducing the production energy consumption of the battery cell 200.

[0096] It should be noted that when the gas nozzle 31 is in sealed contact with the liquid injection hole, the first positive-pressure gas source 10 does not deliver dry gas into the battery cell 200. In some embodiments, after the first positive-pressure gas source 10 has delivered dry gas for a certain period of time and a dry gas protective layer has been formed around the liquid injection hole, the gas nozzle 31 can be sealed again by cutting off the communication path between the first positive-pressure gas source 10 and the gas nozzle 31 or shutting down the first positive-pressure gas source 10.

[0097] See also Figure 1 In one embodiment, the negative pressure forming system 100 further includes a pipeline assembly 40. The pipeline assembly 40 includes a first air path 41, a second air path 42, and a valve unit 43. The first positive pressure gas source 10 is connected to the gas nozzle 31 via the first air path 41. The negative pressure source 20 is connected to the gas nozzle 31 via the second air path 42. The valve unit 43 is disposed on the first air path 41 and the second air path 42 and can respectively open or close the first air path 41 and the second air path 42.

[0098] The type of the valve unit 43 is not limited, and it can be, for example, a two-position five-way solenoid valve.

[0099] The valve unit 43 can open or close the first gas path 41 . Meanwhile, the valve unit 43 can also open or close the second gas path 42 .

[0100] In some embodiments, the first gas circuit 41 and the second gas circuit 42 may be completely independent, that is, both are separately connected to the negative pressure module 30 .

[0101] In other embodiments, Figure 1 As shown, the first gas path 41 and the second gas path 42 have overlapping portions, which helps reduce the material consumption of the pipeline assembly 40. It is understood that in this embodiment, the valve units 43 are respectively arranged at positions where the first gas path 41 and the second gas path 42 do not overlap.

[0102] The valve unit 43 is used to open or close the first gas path 41 and the second gas path 42 respectively, which is beneficial to improving the automation level of the formation negative pressure system 100, reducing the manual operation steps of the battery cell 200 in the formation process, and is beneficial to improving the formation efficiency of the battery cell 200.

[0103] See also Figure 1 and Figure 2 In one embodiment, the valve unit 43 includes a first air-controlled valve 431 disposed on the first air path 41. The pipeline assembly 40 further includes a first control assembly 44. The first control assembly 44 is configured to control the first air-controlled valve 431 to switch to an on state or an off state.

[0104] The first gas-controlled valve 431 is a valve controlled by gas. For example, when gas is supplied to the first gas-controlled valve 431, the first gas-controlled valve 431 switches to an on state, and when gas is stopped, the first gas-controlled valve 431 automatically switches to an off state.

[0105] Illustratively, the first air-controlled valve 431 includes a valve core, an elastic member, and a valve seat. Both the valve core and the valve seat are provided with flow paths. When gas is supplied to the first air-controlled valve 431, the gas pushes the valve core to move, connecting the flow path of the valve core with the flow path of the valve seat, thereby switching the first air-controlled valve 431 to the conducting state. Furthermore, the elastic member undergoes elastic deformation at this time. When gas supply stops, the elastic member pushes the valve core back to its original position, disconnecting the flow path of the valve core from the flow path of the valve seat. Consequently, the first air-controlled valve 431 automatically returns to the shut-off state.

[0106] The first control assembly 44 is a component for controlling the first air control valve 431 to switch to an on state or an off state.

[0107] In this embodiment, the first gas path 41 and the second gas path 42 have overlapping portions.

[0108] It is understandable that when the battery cell 200 is undergoing the formation process, the chemical reaction inside it can produce flammable and explosive gases such as hydrogen. In the process of vacuuming the interior of the battery cell 200 through the negative pressure source 20, this part of the hydrogen may enter the first gas path 41 through the connection between the first gas path 41 and the second gas path 42. If an electromagnetic valve is used to control the conduction or disconnection of the first gas path 41, certain safety hazards will arise.

[0109] The first gas control valve 431 is used to control the conduction or disconnection of the first gas path 41. The first gas control valve 431 is not energized, thereby avoiding the risk of ignition or even explosion of flammable and explosive gases such as hydrogen remaining in the first gas path 41, which is beneficial to improving the safety of the negative pressure system 100.

[0110] The specific structure of the first control component 44 is not limited. For example, please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 In one embodiment, the first control assembly 44 includes a first solenoid valve 441, a third air path 442, and a second positive pressure air source 443. The second positive pressure air source 443 is connected to the first air control valve 431 through the third air path 442. The first solenoid valve 441 is disposed on the third air path 442.

[0111] The type of the first solenoid valve 441 is not limited, and can be, for example, a two-position five-way solenoid valve.

[0112] The second positive pressure gas source 443 is a component that can provide positive pressure gas. The type and humidity of the positive pressure gas provided by the second positive pressure gas source 443 are not limited, as long as it can be used to provide positive pressure gas to the first gas control valve 431.

[0113] It is understood that the third gas path 442 is connected to the first gas control valve 431, but is not connected to the first gas path 41, so that flammable and explosive gases such as hydrogen will basically not enter the third gas path 442. In this way, the third gas path 442 is controlled by the first solenoid valve 441 to be open or closed, and no safety hazards will be created.

[0114] When the first solenoid valve 441 is connected to the third air path 442, the second positive pressure air source 443 can supply gas to the first air control valve 431. When the first solenoid valve 441 is cut off from the third air path 442, the second positive pressure air source 443 stops supplying gas to the first air control valve 431.

[0115] The first solenoid valve 441 is used to open or close the gas delivery path from the second positive pressure gas source 443 to the first gas control valve 431 , which facilitates the control of the first gas control valve 431 and helps to improve the automation level of the negative pressure forming system 100 .

[0116] It is understandable that in some other embodiments, the first control component 44 may not include the first solenoid valve 441, that is, by switching the second positive pressure gas source 443 to selectively supply gas to the first gas control valve 431 or stop supplying gas to the first gas control valve 431.

[0117] See also Figure 1 and Figure 2 In one embodiment, the valve unit 43 includes a second air-controlled valve 432 disposed on the second air path 42. The pipeline assembly 40 further includes a second control assembly 45. The second control assembly 45 is configured to control the second air-controlled valve 432 to switch to an on state or an off state.

[0118] The second air-controlled valve 432 and the second control component 45 can be configured with reference to the first air-controlled valve 431 and the first control component 44 , respectively, and will not be described in detail in this application.

[0119] The second gas path 42 is a flow path connected to the negative pressure source 20 , and flammable and explosive gases such as hydrogen may remain therein as well.

[0120] The second gas control valve 432 is used to control the conduction or disconnection of the second gas path 42. The second gas control valve 432 is not energized, thereby avoiding the risk of flammable gases such as hydrogen remaining in the second gas being ignited or even exploded, which is beneficial to improving the safety of the negative pressure system 100.

[0121] The specific structure of the second control component 45 is not limited. For example, please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 In one embodiment, the second control assembly 45 includes a second solenoid valve 451, a fourth air path 452, and a third positive pressure air source 453. The third positive pressure air source 453 is connected to the second air control valve 432 via the fourth air path 452. The second solenoid valve 451 is disposed on the fourth air path 452.

[0122] The third positive pressure gas source 453 can be set with reference to the second positive pressure gas source 443 , and will not be described in detail in this application.

[0123] The second solenoid valve 451 can be configured with reference to the first solenoid valve 441 , and will not be described in detail in this application.

[0124] The type of the second solenoid valve 451 is not limited, and can be, for example, a two-position five-way solenoid valve.

[0125] The fourth gas path 452 can be configured with reference to the third gas path 442 , and will not be described in detail in this application.

[0126] The second solenoid valve 451 is used to open or close the gas delivery path from the third positive pressure gas source 453 to the second gas control valve 432 , which facilitates the control of the second gas control valve 432 and helps to improve the automation level of the negative pressure forming system 100 .

[0127] It is understandable that in some other embodiments, the second control component 45 may also not include the second solenoid valve 451, that is, by switching the third positive pressure gas source 453 to selectively supply gas to the second gas control valve 432 or stop supplying gas to the second gas control valve 432.

[0128] It should be noted that the first positive pressure air source 10, the second positive pressure air source 443 and the third positive pressure air source 453 can be the same positive pressure air source. It is also possible that any two of them share the same positive pressure air source. Of course, it is also possible that all three use a positive pressure air source independently. Figures 1 to 3 In one embodiment, the pipeline assembly 40 further includes a gas-liquid separator 46 . The gas-liquid separator 46 is disposed on the second gas path 42 .

[0129] The gas-liquid separator 46 can be understood as a component capable of separating gas and liquid from each other. The gas-liquid separator 46 can include but is not limited to a cyclone separator, a filter separator, a screw separator, and the like.

[0130] During the formation process of the battery cells 200, the electrolyte may be extracted along with the exhaust gas due to the use of the negative pressure source 20 to evacuate the interior of the battery cells 200, forming a gas-liquid mixture. This electrolyte may corrode components in the negative pressure formation system 100. Therefore, the gas-liquid separator 46 is provided to separate the exhaust gas and electrolyte in the gas-liquid mixture discharged from the battery cells 200, preventing the electrolyte from entering other components of the negative pressure formation system 100.

[0131] It should be noted that other components include but are not limited to pressure control components, flow control components, etc.

[0132] By setting up a gas-liquid separator 46 to separate the waste gas and the scrapped electrolyte, on the one hand, the risk of the electrolyte entering other components of the formation negative pressure system 100 is reduced, which is beneficial to improving the overall service life of the formation negative pressure system 100; on the other hand, the risk of the scrapped electrolyte flowing back into the battery cell 200 can be reduced, which is beneficial to improving the reliability of the battery cell 200.

[0133] See also Figures 1 to 3 In one embodiment, the pipeline assembly 40 further includes a liquid reservoir 47 and a liquid drain valve 48. The liquid reservoir 47 is in communication with the gas-liquid separator 46 and is configured to collect the liquid separated by the gas-liquid separator 46. The liquid drain valve 48 is disposed on the liquid reservoir 47 and is configured to open or switch a liquid drain path from the liquid reservoir 47 to the outside.

[0134] The liquid storage member 47 is a component with a certain liquid storage capacity, for example, a liquid storage cup or the like.

[0135] The type of the drain valve 48 is not limited, and can be, for example, a solenoid valve, a manual ball valve, etc.

[0136] The electrolyte separated by the gas-liquid separator 46 can be stored in the liquid storage part 47. After the liquid storage part 47 stores a lot of electrolyte, the drain valve 48 can be opened to discharge the electrolyte in the liquid storage part 47 to the outside.

[0137] By setting up the liquid storage part 47 and the drain valve 48, it is convenient to collect the electrolyte separated by the gas-liquid separator 46, so as to facilitate the unified discharge and treatment of the electrolyte. There is no need to treat the electrolyte separated by the gas-liquid separator 46 at any time, which is conducive to simplifying the treatment process.

[0138] It should be noted that there is no limitation on the manner of controlling the opening of the drain valve 48. For example, in some embodiments, the drain valve 48 can be opened periodically to discharge and process the electrolyte collected in the liquid storage member 47.

[0139] In other embodiments, please refer to Figures 1 to 3 The negative pressure forming system 100 further includes a liquid level sensor 49 , which is disposed on the liquid storage component 47 .

[0140] The liquid level sensor 49 can detect the liquid level in the liquid storage part 47. When the liquid level in the liquid storage part 47 reaches a certain height, the information that the liquid level in the liquid storage part 47 is high can be transmitted to the formation negative pressure system 100. The formation negative pressure system 100 can automatically control the opening of the drain valve 48 to drain the liquid, which is conducive to improving the automation of the formation negative pressure system 100.

[0141] See also Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 4 and Figure 5 The negative pressure module 30 further includes a housing 32 having a hollow cavity 32a. A plurality of air nozzles 31 are provided on the housing 32 and communicate with the hollow cavity 32a. The hollow cavity 32a can selectively communicate with the first positive pressure source 10 or the negative pressure source 20.

[0142] The specific structure of the housing 32 is not limited, as long as it can form the hollow cavity 32a. For example, the housing 32 may include an upper shell and a lower shell, wherein the upper shell has a cavity and the lower shell is disposed on the open side of the cavity to form the hollow cavity 32a. An O-ring may be disposed between the upper and lower shells to improve the sealing performance therebetween.

[0143] By setting the hollow cavity 32a, on the one hand, it is convenient to set multiple air nozzles 31 on a negative pressure module 30, so that the negative pressure module 30 can simultaneously perform formation treatment on multiple battery cells 200; on the other hand, when the battery cells 200 are undergoing formation treatment, under the action of the negative pressure source 20, the extracted electrolyte can enter the hollow cavity 32a, and each air nozzle 31 does not need to be separately provided with a negative pressure cup, thereby reducing the number of parts to be cleaned, which is conducive to reducing manual cleaning costs.

[0144] It should be noted that there can be more than one negative pressure module 30. There is no limitation on the installation method of the multiple negative pressure modules 30 in the formation negative pressure system 100.

[0145] For example, see Figure 1 and Figure 2 There is an overlapping portion between the first gas path 41 and the second gas path 42 of the negative pressure system 100 , and all negative pressure modules 30 are connected to the overlapping portion of the first gas path 41 and the second gas path 42 .

[0146] For example, see Figure 3 The negative pressure system 100 further includes a plurality of first gas paths 41 and second gas paths 42 corresponding one to one with the first gas paths 41 . There are overlapping portions between the one-to-one corresponding first gas paths 41 and the second gas paths 42 . A plurality of negative pressure modules 30 are connected to the overlapping portions of each group of first gas paths 41 and second gas paths 42 .

[0147] Of course, there may be overlapping parts between the multiple first air paths 41, and each first air path 41 is connected to the negative pressure source 20 through the overlapping part. In this way, only one negative pressure source 20 can be used, and only one set of gas-liquid separator 46, liquid storage part 47, drain valve 48 and liquid level sensor 49 can be used, thereby reducing the cost of the negative pressure system 100.

[0148] See also Figure 4 and Figure 5 In one embodiment, the negative pressure forming system 100 further includes a frame 50. The negative pressure module 30 is disposed on the frame 50. The mounting position of the gas nozzle 31 on the frame 50 is adjustable.

[0149] The structure of the frame 50 is not limited, as long as it can meet the requirements of the installation of the negative pressure module 30.

[0150] The installation position of the air nozzle 31 on the frame 50 is adjustable, which means that the installation position of the air nozzle 31 on the frame 50 is not fixed.

[0151] By setting the installation position of the gas nozzle 31 on the frame 50 to be adjustable, the gas nozzle 31 can be moved to multiple installation positions, thereby facilitating the sealing fit of the gas nozzle 31 with the injection holes of battery cells 200 of various models and sizes, which is beneficial to improving the versatility of the formation negative pressure system 100.

[0152] See also Figure 4 and Figure 5 In one embodiment, the frame 50 is provided with a plurality of mounting positions 50a arranged along a first direction. The air nozzle 31 can be installed at any mounting position 50a.

[0153] The specific direction of the first direction is not limited. For example, the first direction can be Figure 5 The direction indicated by X.

[0154] The mounting position 50 a can be understood as a fixed position of the air nozzle 31 on the frame 50 .

[0155] The air nozzle 31 can be positioned at any position on the frame 50 along the first direction. For example, the frame 50 may have a strip-shaped hole extending along the first direction. A fastener can be inserted through any position within the strip-shaped hole to secure the air nozzle 31 to the frame 50. In this embodiment, the mounting position 50a can be understood as the location where the fastener is secured to the strip-shaped hole. This type of mounting position 50a allows the air nozzle 31 to be mounted at any position on the frame 50 within its range of motion along the first direction, thus enabling stepless adjustment of the air nozzle 31's position on the frame 50.

[0156] Of course, the mounting positions 50 a may also be a specific structure arranged at intervals along the first direction, so that the air nozzle 31 can be installed on any mounting position 50 a.

[0157] By providing a plurality of mounting positions 50 a arranged along the first direction, the air nozzle 31 is easily installed on the frame 50 , and the mounting position of the air nozzle 31 on the frame 50 is also easily adjustable.

[0158] See also Figure 4 and Figure 5 In one embodiment, the negative pressure module 30 further includes a first stopper 33 and a second stopper 34 spaced apart along the second direction on the air nozzle 31. At least a portion of the frame 50 is sandwiched between the first stopper 33 and the second stopper 34. The first stopper 33 is provided with a locking portion 33a. The first stopper 33 is movable along the second direction, allowing the locking portion 33a to engage with or disengage from the mounting position 50a. The second direction intersects the first direction.

[0159] The specific direction of the second direction is not limited. For example, the second direction can be Figure 5 The direction shown in Y.

[0160] The specific angle at which the second direction intersects the first direction is not limited. For example, the second direction may be orthogonal to the first direction.

[0161] The shapes of the first limiting member 33 and the second limiting member 34 are not limited, and can be, for example, block-shaped.

[0162] The first limiting member 33 can move along the second direction so that the clamping portion 33a can be clamped on the mounting position 50a or separated from the mounting position 50a. This means that on the same mounting position 50a, by moving the first limiting member 33 along one side of the second direction, the clamping portion 33a can be clamped on the mounting position 50a, and by moving the first limiting member 33 along the other side of the second direction, the clamping portion 33a can be detached from the mounting position 50a.

[0163] It can be understood that at least a portion of the frame 50 is clamped between the first limit member 33 and the second limit member 34. Then, the first limit member 33 moves along one side of the second direction, so that the first limit member 33 and the second limit member 34 can both abut against the frame 50, thereby achieving stable installation of the air nozzle 31 on the frame 50 along the second direction. The first limit member 33 moves along the other side of the second direction, so that at least one of the first limit member 33 and the second limit member 34 can be separated from the frame 50. At the same time, according to the above, the clamping portion 33a is also detached from the current installation position 50a. In this way, the air nozzle 31 can move along the first direction to another installation position 50a.

[0164] That is to say, by only controlling the first limit member 33 to generate movement along the second direction, the air nozzle 31 can be connected to or separated from one mounting position 50a, and the air nozzle 31 can also be moved along the first direction and moved to another mounting position 50a, thereby improving the convenience of installing the air nozzle 31 and adjusting the mounting position 50.

[0165] See also Figure 4 and Figure 5 In one embodiment, one of the mounting position 50a and the engaging portion 33a is a groove, and the other is a protrusion. The protrusion extends along the second direction.

[0166] Specifically, the installation position 50a may be a groove, and the clamping portion 33a may be a protrusion.

[0167] The first limiting member 33 moves along the second direction, and the protrusion can extend into the groove or disengage from the groove. When the protrusion extends into the groove, the first limiting member 33 is in limiting engagement with the frame body 50 along the first direction.

[0168] The size of the protrusion can be adapted to the size of the groove, that is, the size of the groove is slightly larger than the size of the protrusion, thereby reducing the difficulty of the protrusion extending into the groove.

[0169] The engagement method of the protrusion and the groove is relatively simple, which is conducive to the engagement or separation of the engaging portion 33a with the mounting position 50a.

[0170] See also Figure 4 and Figure 5 In one embodiment, a slide groove 50b extending along a first direction is provided on the frame 50. The air nozzle 31 is movably provided in the slide groove 50b along the first direction.

[0171] It can be understood that the first limiting member 33 and the second limiting member 34 are located on opposite sides of the sliding groove 50b along the second direction.

[0172] Furthermore, when a groove is further provided on the frame body 50 , the groove is located on a side of the sliding groove 50 b close to the first limiting member 33 along the second direction.

[0173] When the air nozzle 31 moves along the first direction to switch between the multiple installation positions 50a, the sliding groove 50b can provide a guide for the movement of the air nozzle 31, so as to facilitate the air nozzle 31 to move to the installation position 50a to be installed.

[0174] See also Figure 4 and Figure 5 In one embodiment, the negative pressure module 30 further includes a first elastic return member 35. Under the action of an external force, the first limiting member 33 can move in the second direction, separating the engaging portion 33a from the mounting position 50a, and the first elastic return member 35 is elastically deformed. The first elastic return member 35 then recovers its elastic deformation, reengaging the engaging portion 33a with the mounting position 50a.

[0175] The type of the first elastic return member 35 is not limited. For example, it can be a tension spring, a compression spring, etc. Specifically, the first elastic return member 35 can be a compression spring extending along the second direction. The first elastic return member 35 is disposed on a side of the first stopper 33 that is away from the second stopper 34 along the second direction. When the first stopper 33 moves along the second direction toward the side away from the second stopper 34, the compression spring is compressed.

[0176] Specifically, when the clamping portion 33a is a protrusion and the mounting position 50a is a groove, the first elastic return member 35 can enable the protrusion to be stably set in the groove. Under the action of external force, the first limiting member 33 moves along the second direction. After the protrusion is disengaged from the groove, the air nozzle 31 is controlled to move along the first direction so that the protrusion can match another groove. At this time, the external force is removed, and the first elastic return member 35 restores its elastic deformation to push the protrusion into the groove.

[0177] Through the first elastic reset member 35, on the one hand, the reliability of the clamping connection between the clamping portion 33a and the installation position 50a can be made higher. On the other hand, after the first elastic reset member 35 produces elastic deformation, it can provide a certain elastic force. Under the action of this elastic force, the clamping portion 33a can be easily clamped with the installation position 50a, which is convenient for the operator to operate.

[0178] See also Figure 4 and Figure 5 In one embodiment, the negative pressure module 30 further includes a second elastic return member 36. Under the action of an external force, the second stopper 34 can move in the second direction and separate from the frame 50, while the second elastic return member 36 elastically deforms. The second elastic return member 36 recovers its elastic deformation, allowing the second stopper 34 to abut against the frame 50.

[0179] The type of the second elastic return member 36 is not limited. For example, it can be a compression spring, a tension spring, etc. Specifically, the second elastic return member 36 can be a compression spring extending along the second direction. The second elastic return member 36 is disposed on a side of the second stopper 34 that is away from the first stopper 33 along the second direction. When the second stopper 34 moves along the second direction away from the first stopper 33, the compression spring is compressed.

[0180] The second limiting member 34 is in contact with the frame 50 through the second elastic return member 36. On the one hand, the second elastic return member 36 can produce elastic deformation, thereby facilitating the second limiting member 34 to release the limiting relationship with the frame 50 along the second direction, and then facilitating the movement of the air nozzle 31 to any installation position 50a; on the other hand, the second elastic return member 36 can, in the reset state, cause the second limiting member 34 to abut against the frame 50, thereby improving the installation stability of the air nozzle 31 on the frame 50.

[0181] In a specific embodiment, please refer to Figures 1 to 5The negative pressure system 100 includes a negative pressure module 30, a pipeline assembly 40, a first positive pressure gas source 10, a frame 50, and a negative pressure source 20. The negative pressure module 30 includes a shell 32, an air nozzle 31, a first limiter 33, a second limiter 34, a first elastic return member 35, and a second elastic return member 36. The shell 32 is disposed on the frame 50. The shell 32 has a hollow cavity 32a. There are multiple air nozzles 31, and each air nozzle 31 is connected to the hollow cavity 32a. The frame 50 is provided with multiple mounting positions 50a extending along the first direction. The frame 50 is provided with a slide groove 50b extending along the first direction. The air nozzle 31 is inserted into the slide groove 50b along the second direction. The mounting position 50a is a groove. The first limiter 33 and the second limiter 34 are arranged on the air nozzle 31 at intervals along the second direction. The first limiter 33 is connected to the first elastic return member 35. The second stopper 34 is connected to the second elastic return member 36. When the first elastic return member 35 and the second elastic return member 36 are in the reset state, at least a portion of the frame 50 is sandwiched between the first stopper 33 and the second stopper 34. When the first stopper 33 moves in the second direction away from the second stopper 34, the first elastic return member 35 elastically deforms. When the second stopper 34 moves in the second direction away from the first stopper 33, the second elastic return member 36 elastically deforms. A clamping portion 33a is provided on the first stopper 33. The clamping portion 33a is a protrusion that extends in the second direction.

[0182] The pipeline assembly 40 includes a first air circuit 41, a second air circuit 42, a first air-controlled valve 431, a second air-controlled valve 432, a first solenoid valve 441, a third air circuit 442, a second positive-pressure air source 443, a second solenoid valve 451, a fourth air circuit 452, a third positive-pressure air source 453, a gas-liquid separator 46, a liquid reservoir 47, a drain valve 48, and a liquid level sensor 49. The first positive-pressure air source 10 communicates with the hollow cavity 32a of the housing 32 via the first air circuit 41. The negative-pressure source 20 communicates with the hollow cavity 32a via the second air circuit 42. The first air-controlled valve 431 is disposed on the first air circuit 41. The second positive-pressure air source 443 communicates with the first air-controlled valve 431 via the third air circuit 442. The first solenoid valve 441 is disposed on the third air circuit 442. The second air-controlled valve 432 is disposed on the second air circuit 42. A third positive pressure gas source 453 is connected to the second air control valve 432 via a fourth air path 452. A second solenoid valve 451 is provided on the fourth air path 452. A gas-liquid separator 46 is provided on the second air path 42, between the second air control valve 432 and the negative pressure source 20. A liquid reservoir 47 is connected to the gas-liquid separator 46. A drain valve 48 and a liquid level sensor 49 are provided on the liquid reservoir 47.

[0183] See also Figure 6 In a second aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a control method for a negative pressure system.

[0184] It should be noted that the control method is applicable to the negative pressure forming system 100 of any embodiment of the present application.

[0185] The negative pressure forming system 100 includes a control module, a first positive pressure gas source 10 , a negative pressure source 20 , and a negative pressure module 30 . The negative pressure module 30 includes a gas nozzle 31 .

[0186] Of course, the negative pressure forming system 100 may also include other components, including but not limited to the components of the negative pressure forming system 100 in any embodiment of the present application.

[0187] Since the components of the negative pressure forming system 100 have been described in detail above, they will not be described in detail herein.

[0188] The control module can be understood as a component of the negative pressure system 100 used to control the operation of various components. Its type is not limited. For example, it can be a control motherboard.

[0189] See also Figure 6 , control methods include:

[0190] S100: In response to the battery cell entering the formation process, the control module controls the gas nozzle to be connected to the first positive pressure gas source, and controls the first positive pressure gas source to deliver dry gas to the gas nozzle, and the delivery time of the dry gas is a first preset time.

[0191] S200: The control module controls the first positive pressure air source and the air nozzle to switch to a disconnected state.

[0192] S300: The control module controls the gas nozzle to seal and fit the liquid injection hole of the battery cell.

[0193] S400: The control module controls the air nozzle to be connected to the negative pressure source, and the negative pressure source evacuates the battery cell to start formation.

[0194] See also Figure 2 , Figure 2 This is a negative pressure forming system 100 according to a specific embodiment of the present application.

[0195] Specifically, the control module controls the connection between the gas nozzle 31 and the first positive-pressure gas source 10. The control module sends a command, energizing the first solenoid valve 441, thereby opening the third gas path 442. The second positive-pressure gas source 443 delivers gas to the first gas-controlled valve 431. The first gas-controlled valve 431, activated by the second positive-pressure gas source 443, opens, thereby placing the first gas path 41 in a conductive state. In this manner, the gas nozzle 31 is connected to the first positive-pressure gas source 10 via the first gas path 41. At this point, the control module controls the first positive-pressure gas source 10 to output dry gas, which is then blown toward the battery cell 200 through the gas nozzle 31.

[0196] The first gas path 41 is connected or disconnected by the first gas control valve 431 . The first gas control valve 431 is not energized. Even if flammable and explosive gases such as hydrogen exist in the first gas path 41 , no safety hazard will occur.

[0197] After the dry gas has been delivered for the first preset time, a small protective layer of dry gas forms around the injection hole of the battery cell 200. In this state, the control module sends a command to de-energize the first solenoid valve 441, thereby cutting off the gas supply path from the second positive pressure gas source 443 to the first gas control valve 431. The first gas control valve 431 switches to the cut-off state, and the first gas path 41 is cut off. In this way, the first positive pressure gas source 10 and the gas nozzle 31 are switched to the disconnected state.

[0198] After the dry gas protective layer is formed, the on-off valve of the battery cell 200 is opened, and the gas nozzle 31 is quickly sealed and fitted with the liquid injection hole.

[0199] After the air nozzle 31 is sealed and attached to the liquid injection hole, the control module controls the air nozzle 31 to switch to a state of being connected to the negative pressure source 20, so that the interior of the battery cell 200 can be vacuumed and formation can begin.

[0200] In one embodiment, see Figure 2 The specific process of the control module controlling the connection between the gas nozzle 31 and the negative pressure source 20 may be as follows: the control module outputs an instruction to control the second solenoid valve 451 to be in an energized state, thereby opening the fourth gas path 452. The third positive pressure gas source 453 delivers gas to the second gas control valve 432 via the fourth gas path 452, causing the second gas control valve 432 to switch to a conducting state, thereby opening the second gas path 42. The negative pressure source 20 is connected to the gas nozzle 31 via the second gas path 42, thereby enabling vacuuming the interior of the battery cell 200.

[0201] By supplying dry gas to the battery cell 200, a dry gas protective layer is formed around the liquid injection hole of the battery cell 200. When the dry gas protective layer is formed, the on-off valve of the battery cell 200 is opened, and the gas nozzle 31 and the liquid injection hole are quickly sealed. Through this dry gas protective layer, even if the formation workshop is in a high humidity environment, water vapor will basically not flow into the battery cell 200. In other words, there is no need for a dehumidification system to dehumidify the entire formation workshop, which is beneficial to reducing the production energy consumption of the battery cell 200.

[0202] In one embodiment, the first preset time ranges from 10s to 30s, for example, 10s, 12s, 14s, 16s, 18s, 20s, 22s, 24s, 26s, 28s, 30s, etc.

[0203] It should be noted that in the embodiments of the present application, the unit referred to by “s” is “second”.

[0204] By controlling the range of the first preset time within the range of 10s to 30s, on the one hand, the first preset time is at least 10s, that is, the first positive pressure gas source 10 can deliver at least 10s of dry gas, which is conducive to forming a small-scale dry gas protection layer at the injection hole of the battery cell 200; on the other hand, the first preset time is at most 30s, so that while ensuring the formation of the dry gas protection layer, it will not take up too much time, thereby reasonably controlling the time required for the entire formation process of the battery cell 200, which is conducive to improving the production efficiency of the battery cell 200.

[0205] In one embodiment, the control method further includes:

[0206] After confirming that the formation process of the battery cell is completed, the control module controls the gas nozzle to remain connected to the negative pressure source, and controls the gas nozzle to be separated from the liquid injection hole of the battery cell.

[0207] By keeping the gas nozzle 31 connected to the negative pressure source 20, the hydrogen and other gases generated by the battery cell 200 during the entire formation process can be extracted as much as possible by the negative pressure source 20, thereby reducing the possibility of this part of the gas remaining in the battery cell 200 as much as possible, and further reducing the risk of adverse effects on the performance of the battery cell 200.

[0208] In one embodiment, after confirming that the formation process of the battery cell is completed, the control module controls the gas nozzle to maintain communication with the negative pressure source and controls the gas nozzle to separate from the liquid injection hole of the battery cell. The control method further includes:

[0209] The control module controls the gas nozzle to be connected to the first positive pressure gas source, and controls the first positive pressure gas source to deliver dry gas to the gas nozzle, and the delivery time of the dry gas is a second preset time.

[0210] It is understandable that during the formation process of the battery cell 200 , the negative pressure source 20 may extract part of the electrolyte through the injection hole, and a portion of the electrolyte may remain in the gas nozzle 31 .

[0211] After the gas nozzle 31 is separated from the liquid injection hole of the battery cell 200 , dry gas is blown toward the gas nozzle 31 through the first positive pressure gas source 10 to blow out the residual electrolyte in the gas nozzle 31 , thereby reducing contamination of the gas nozzle 31 .

[0212] In one embodiment, the second preset time ranges from 5s to 10s, for example, 5s, 5.5s, 6s, 6.5s, 7s, 7.5s, 8s, 8.5s, 9s, 9.5s, 10s, etc.

[0213] By controlling the range of the second preset time within the range of 5s to 0s, on the one hand, the second preset time is at least 5s, that is, after the formation process of the previous batch of battery cells 200 is completed, the first positive pressure gas source 10 delivers dry gas to the gas nozzle 31 for at least 5s, which is conducive to blowing out the electrolyte in the gas nozzle 31; on the other hand, the second preset time is at most 10s, so that while ensuring that the gas nozzle 31 can blow out the electrolyte, it does not take up too much blowing time, so that the formation process of the next batch of battery cells 200 can be carried out quickly, which is conducive to improving the production efficiency of the battery cells 200.

[0214] In a specific embodiment, the present application provides a control method for a formation negative pressure system, the control method comprising:

[0215] In response to the battery cell entering the formation process, the control module controls the gas nozzle to be connected to the first positive pressure gas source, and controls the first positive pressure gas source to deliver dry gas to the gas nozzle. The delivery time of the dry gas ranges from 10s to 30s.

[0216] The control module controls the first positive pressure air source and the air nozzle to switch to a disconnected state.

[0217] The control module controls the air nozzle to seal and fit with the liquid injection hole of the battery cell.

[0218] The control module controls the air nozzle to connect with the negative pressure source, and the negative pressure source evacuates the battery cell to start formation.

[0219] After confirming that the formation process of the battery cell is completed, the control module controls the gas nozzle to remain connected to the negative pressure source, and controls the gas nozzle to be separated from the liquid injection hole of the battery cell.

[0220] The control module controls the gas nozzle to be connected to the first positive pressure gas source, and controls the first positive pressure gas source to deliver dry gas to the gas nozzle, and the delivery time of the dry gas ranges from 5s to 10s.

[0221] The above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present application, rather than to limit them. Although the present application has been described in detail with reference to the aforementioned embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that they can still modify the technical solutions described in the aforementioned embodiments, or make equivalent replacements for some or all of the technical features therein. These modifications or replacements do not deviate the essence of the corresponding technical solutions from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application, and they should all be included in the scope of the claims and specification of the present application. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the various technical features mentioned in the various embodiments can be combined in any way. The present application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions that fall within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A negative pressure forming system, characterized in that: include: a first positive pressure gas source configured to provide dry gas; Negative pressure source; The negative pressure module includes an air nozzle, one end of which can be selectively connected to the first positive pressure air source or the negative pressure source, and the other end is configured to cooperate with the liquid injection hole of the battery cell. The negative pressure source is configured to be able to vacuum the battery cell through the air nozzle.

2. The negative pressure formation system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The negative pressure formation system also includes a pipeline assembly, which includes a first air circuit, a second air circuit and a valve unit. The first positive pressure air source is connected to the air nozzle through the first air circuit, and the negative pressure source is connected to the air nozzle through the second air circuit. The valve unit is arranged on the first air circuit and the second air circuit, and can respectively open or cut off the first air circuit and the second air circuit.

3. The negative pressure formation system according to claim 2, characterized in that: The valve unit includes a first air-controlled valve provided on the first air path, and the pipeline assembly further includes a first control assembly, which is configured to control the first air-controlled valve to switch to an on state or an off state.

4. The negative pressure formation system according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first control component includes a first solenoid valve, a third air circuit and a second positive pressure air source. The second positive pressure air source is connected to the first air control valve through the third air circuit. The first solenoid valve is arranged on the third air circuit.

5. The negative pressure formation system according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that: The valve unit includes a second air-controlled valve provided on the second air path, and the pipeline assembly further includes a second control assembly, which is configured to control the second air-controlled valve to switch to an on state or an off state.

6. The negative pressure formation system according to claim 5, characterized in that: The second control component includes a second solenoid valve, a fourth air circuit and a third positive pressure air source. The third positive pressure air source is connected to the second air control valve through the fourth air circuit. The second solenoid valve is arranged on the fourth air circuit.

7. The negative pressure formation system according to any one of claims 2 to 6, characterized in that: The pipeline assembly further includes a gas-liquid separator, which is arranged on the second gas path.

8. The negative pressure formation system according to claim 7, characterized in that: The pipeline assembly also includes a liquid storage component and a liquid discharge valve. The liquid storage component is connected to the gas-liquid separator and is configured to collect the liquid separated by the gas-liquid separator. The liquid discharge valve is arranged on the liquid storage component and is configured to be able to conduct or switch the liquid discharge path of the liquid storage component to the outside.

9. The negative pressure formation system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that: The negative pressure module also includes a shell having a hollow cavity, and there are multiple air nozzles, each of which is arranged on the shell and connected to the hollow cavity. The hollow cavity can be selectively connected to the first positive pressure air source or the negative pressure source.

10. The negative pressure formation system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that: The formation negative pressure system further comprises a frame, the negative pressure module is arranged on the frame, and the installation position of the gas nozzle on the frame is adjustable.

11. The negative pressure formation system according to claim 10, characterized in that: The frame is provided with a plurality of mounting positions arranged along a first direction, and the air nozzle can be mounted on any of the mounting positions.

12. The negative pressure formation system according to claim 11, characterized in that: The negative pressure module also includes a first limit member and a second limit member arranged on the air nozzle at intervals along a second direction, at least a portion of the frame is clamped between the first limit member and the second limit member, the first limit member is provided with a clamping portion, and the first limit member can move along the second direction so that the clamping portion can be clamped in the installation position or separated from the installation position, wherein the second direction intersects with the first direction.

13. The negative pressure formation system according to claim 12, characterized in that: One of the installation position and the clamping portion is a groove, and the other is a protrusion, and the protrusion extends along the second direction.

14. The negative pressure formation system according to claim 12, characterized in that: The frame is provided with a slide groove extending along the first direction, and the air nozzle is movably arranged in the slide groove along the first direction.

15. The negative pressure formation system according to claim 12, characterized in that: The negative pressure module further includes a first elastic reset member. Under the action of an external force, the first limiting member can move along the second direction to separate the clamping portion from the mounting position, and the first elastic reset member generates elastic deformation, and the first elastic reset member recovers the elastic deformation to clamp the clamping portion with the mounting position; and / or, The negative pressure module also includes a second elastic return member. Under the action of external force, the second limit member can move along the second direction and separate from the frame, and the second elastic return member produces elastic deformation, and the second elastic return member restores the elastic deformation to make the second limit member abut against the frame.

16. A control method for a formation negative pressure system, the formation negative pressure system comprising a control module, a first positive pressure gas source, a negative pressure source, and a negative pressure module, the negative pressure module comprising a gas nozzle, characterized in that: The control method includes: In response to the battery cell entering the formation process, the control module controls the gas nozzle to communicate with the first positive pressure gas source, and controls the first positive pressure gas source to deliver dry gas to the gas nozzle, and the delivery time of the dry gas is a first preset time; The control module controls the first positive pressure air source and the air nozzle to switch to a disconnected state; The control module controls the gas nozzle to be sealed and fitted with the liquid injection hole of the battery cell; The control module controls the gas nozzle to be connected to the negative pressure source, and the negative pressure source evacuates the battery cell to start formation.

17. The control method according to claim 16, characterized in that: The first preset time ranges from 10s to 30s.

18. The control method according to claim 16, characterized in that: The control method further includes: After confirming that the formation process of the battery cell is completed, the control module controls the gas nozzle to maintain a connection state with the negative pressure source, and controls the gas nozzle to be separated from the liquid injection hole of the battery cell.

19. The control method according to claim 18, characterized in that: After confirming that the formation process of the battery cell is completed, the control module controls the gas nozzle to maintain a connection state with the negative pressure source and controls the gas nozzle to separate from the injection hole of the battery cell, and the control method further includes: The control module controls the gas nozzle to be connected to the first positive pressure gas source, and controls the first positive pressure gas source to deliver dry gas to the gas nozzle, and the delivery time of the dry gas is a second preset time.

20. The control method according to claim 19, characterized in that: The second preset time ranges from 5s to 10s.

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