Solder strip handling device, solder strip handling method and battery string production apparatus

Abstract

This application provides a solder strip processing apparatus, a solder strip processing method, and battery string production equipment. The solder strip processing apparatus includes a node detection mechanism, a solder strip adjustment mechanism, a solder strip cutting mechanism, and a solder strip traction mechanism. The solder strip traction mechanism and the solder strip cutting mechanism are used to clamp N solder strips that have passed sequentially through the solder strip adjustment mechanism and the solder strip cutting mechanism, and pull them to a predetermined position. Each solder strip includes alternating triangular segments and circular segments; an adjacent triangular segment and a circular segment constitute a solder strip segment, and a node to be cut is formed between two adjacent solder strip segments. The node detection mechanism is used to detect the position of the nodes on the N solder strips before the solder strip traction mechanism clamps them. The solder strip adjustment mechanism adjusts the position of the solder strips according to the node positions of the N solder strips, aligning the nodes of the N solder strips. Finally, the solder strip cutting mechanism cuts the solder strips at the nodes.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of photovoltaic cell production equipment, specifically a welding strip processing device, a welding strip processing method, and a cell string production equipment. Background Technology

[0002] During battery series connection, adjacent battery cells are connected via a group of solder strip segments, which consists of N solder strip segments. For example... Figures 1 to 3 As shown, specifically, in the welding strip group, half of each welding strip 100 is welded to the back of one of the adjacent solar cells 200, and the other half of the welding strip is welded to the front of another solar cell 200 in the adjacent solar cells.

[0003] A common welding strip structure is that the half of the welding strip on the back of the solar cell 200 is a circular segment 101 with a circular cross-section, while in order to increase the light-receiving area on the front of the solar cell 200, the half of the welding strip on the front of the solar cell 200 is a triangular segment 102 with a triangular cross-section.

[0004] In order to achieve the supply of welding strip assemblies, such as Figure 4 As shown, a welding strip feeding device dispenses N parallel welding strips (e.g., 11 in the figure). Each welding strip has alternating triangular segments 102 and circular segments 101. An adjacent triangular segment 102 and a circular segment 101 constitute a welding strip segment 100. A node to be cut is formed between two adjacent welding strip segments 100. Whenever a node on the N welding strips passes the welding strip cutting mechanism, the welding strip cutting mechanism cuts the node, thereby obtaining a set of welding strip segments.

[0005] However, when the ribbon feeding device feeds out N parallel ribbons, the feeding speed of each ribbon inevitably varies, resulting in uneven nodes at the junctions of adjacent ribbon segments. Ultimately, this causes the cutting positions of some ribbons in the ribbon segment group to deviate from the nodes, affecting the production quality of the battery string. Summary of the Invention

[0006] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this application provides a welding strip processing device, the detailed technical solution of which is as follows:

[0007] A welding strip processing device includes a node detection mechanism, a welding strip adjustment mechanism, a welding strip cutting mechanism, and a welding strip traction mechanism, wherein:

[0008] The welding strip adjustment mechanism, the welding strip cutting mechanism, and the welding strip traction mechanism are arranged sequentially along the first horizontal direction;

[0009] The welding strip traction mechanism is configured to clamp N parallel welding strips that have passed through the welding strip adjustment mechanism and the welding strip cutting mechanism in sequence from the welding strip cutting mechanism, and to pull the N welding strips away from the welding strip cutting mechanism to a predetermined position along the first horizontal direction. Each welding strip includes alternating triangular segments and circular segments. An adjacent triangular segment and a circular segment constitute a welding strip segment, and a node to be cut is formed between two adjacent welding strip segments.

[0010] The welding strip cutting mechanism is configured to cut N welding strips when the welding strip traction mechanism pulls N welding strips to a predetermined position, so as to obtain a welding strip segment group consisting of N welding strip segments;

[0011] The node detection mechanism is located on the side of the welding strip cutting mechanism away from the welding strip traction mechanism. The node detection mechanism is configured to detect the position of the nodes on the N welding strips located at the detection station before the welding strip traction mechanism picks up N welding strips, so as to obtain the node position of the N welding strips.

[0012] The welding strip adjustment mechanism is configured to adjust the position of the welding strip to be adjusted in the first horizontal direction according to the node position of the N welding strips, so that the nodes of the N welding strips are aligned in the second horizontal direction, and the second horizontal direction is perpendicular to the first horizontal direction.

[0013] The welding strip processing apparatus provided in this application includes a node detection mechanism that detects the position of nodes on the N welding strips before the welding strip cutting mechanism cuts off welding strip segments from the N welding strips, and a welding strip adjustment mechanism that adjusts the position of the welding strips according to the node position information of the N welding strips, thereby aligning the nodes on the N welding strips and ultimately ensuring that the welding strip cutting mechanism cuts off N welding strip segments from the nodes of the N welding strips.

[0014] In some embodiments, the node detection mechanism includes a light source and a camera arranged in a vertical direction, with the detection station within the camera's field of view, and the light source configured to provide illumination at least when the camera performs position detection on the nodes located on the N weld strips at the detection station.

[0015] After the camera acquires images of N solder strips at the inspection station, the node positions on the N solder strips can be obtained by analyzing the images. During the imaging process, the light source illuminates the N solder strips located at the inspection station, ensuring that the camera obtains images of clean solder strips and improving positioning accuracy. Non-contact imaging positioning avoids damage to the surface of the solder strips.

[0016] In some embodiments, the solder strip adjustment mechanism includes N adjustment components arranged along the second horizontal direction and corresponding one-to-one with the N solder strips. Each adjustment component can clamp the corresponding solder strip and drive the corresponding solder strip to move in the first horizontal direction so that the nodes of the N solder strips are aligned in the second horizontal direction.

[0017] Each solder strip is independently positioned by a corresponding adjustment component, enabling flexible positioning of each solder strip and ensuring that the nodes of the N solder strips are aligned in the second horizontal direction. For example, a reference line extending along the second horizontal direction for alignment can be set at the inspection station first. Each adjustment component determines its adjustment distance based on the distance between the node of the corresponding solder strip and the reference line, and then adjusts the node of the corresponding solder strip to the reference line, so that the nodes of the N solder strips are all located on the reference line.

[0018] In some embodiments, the solder strip processing apparatus further includes a plurality of anti-rollover mechanisms spaced apart along a first horizontal direction. Each anti-rollover mechanism has N anti-rollover channels corresponding to N solder strips formed along a second horizontal direction. Each solder strip passes through the corresponding anti-rollover channel, and the anti-rollover channel is configured to limit the triangular segments on the solder strip from rolling over.

[0019] By intermittently installing anti-flipping mechanisms along the traction path of the solder ribbon, the solder ribbon is prevented from flipping, ensuring that the triangular segments on the ribbon remain with their vertices facing upwards. This allows the cut-off triangular segments of the solder ribbon to be soldered to the front of the solar cell with their vertices facing upwards. This ensures, on the one hand, a stable metallized connection is formed between the triangular segments of the solder ribbon and the grid lines on the front of the solar cell; on the other hand, it ensures that the beveled surfaces on both sides of the triangular segments reflect the light incident upon them onto the front of the solar cell, thereby increasing the light-receiving area of ​​the solar cell's front side.

[0020] In some embodiments, the anti-rollover mechanism includes N anti-rollover components arranged along a second horizontal direction and corresponding one-to-one with N welding strips. Each anti-rollover component includes an upper roller and a lower roller arranged vertically. The mounting shafts of the upper roller and the lower roller both extend along the second horizontal direction. A first groove with an acute-angled triangular cross-section is arranged circumferentially on the circumferential surface of the upper roller. The first groove and the circumferential surface of the lower roller cooperate to form an anti-rollover channel. The side length of one side of the triangular segment of the welding strip is a, and the side length of one side of the cross-section of the first groove is b, where 2a>b>1.3a.

[0021] The anti-tipping mechanism for the welding strip is implemented by upper and lower rollers with first grooves, which can rotate under the drive of the welding strip. Therefore, the anti-tipping component achieves the anti-tipping effect while avoiding obstruction of the normal conveying of the welding strip, thus preventing it from being stretched and deformed. Furthermore, each welding strip is protected against tipping by an independent anti-tipping component, facilitating the installation and maintenance of the anti-tipping components. For example, if one anti-tipping component malfunctions, only that component needs to be repaired or replaced.

[0022] By setting the cross-sectional dimensions of the first groove and the triangular segment, it is ensured that the first groove can achieve the anti-flipping effect on the triangular segment of the solder ribbon. On the other hand, it ensures that there is sufficient margin between the triangular segment of the solder ribbon and the inner wall of the first groove, so as to avoid the inner wall of the first groove from scratching the triangular segment of the solder ribbon and damaging the solder on the surface of the triangular segment of the solder ribbon.

[0023] In some embodiments, the anti-rollover assembly further includes a first elastic element configured to elastically press at least one of the upper roller and the lower roller against the other.

[0024] By incorporating a first elastic element, the upper and lower rollers are elastically pressed together, forming a closed anti-overturning channel between the first groove and the circumferential surface of the lower roller. Furthermore, the elastic contact between the upper and lower rollers absorbs vertical vibrations of the welding strip, reducing the risk of scratch damage to the strip surface.

[0025] In some embodiments, the anti-tumble mechanism includes an upper roller and a lower roller arranged in a pair, wherein:

[0026] Both the upper roller and the lower roller extend along the second horizontal direction. The circumferential surface of the upper roller is provided with N rings of second grooves with acute triangular cross-sections along the second horizontal direction. Each second groove and the circumferential surface of the lower roller cooperate to form an anti-rollover channel. The side length of one side of the cross-section of the triangular segment of the welding strip is a, and the side length of one side of the cross-section of the second groove is b, where 2a>b>1.3a.

[0027] The anti-overturning limit of the welding strip is implemented by upper and lower rollers with second grooves, which can rotate under the drive of the welding strip. Therefore, the anti-overturning component can achieve the anti-overturning effect of the welding strip while avoiding obstruction of the normal conveying of the welding strip, which would cause the welding strip to be stretched and deformed.

[0028] By setting the cross-sectional dimensions of the second groove and the triangular segment, it is ensured that the second groove can achieve the effect of preventing the triangular segment of the solder ribbon from flipping over. On the other hand, it ensures that there is sufficient margin between the triangular segment of the solder ribbon and the inner wall of the second groove, so as to avoid the inner wall of the second groove from scratching the triangular segment of the solder ribbon and damaging the solder on the surface of the triangular segment of the solder ribbon.

[0029] In some embodiments, the anti-rollover mechanism further includes a second elastic element configured to elastically press at least one of the upper roller and the lower roller against the other.

[0030] By incorporating a second elastic element, the upper and lower rollers are elastically pressed together, creating a closed anti-overturning channel between the second groove and the circumferential surface of the lower roller. Furthermore, the elastic contact between the upper and lower rollers absorbs vertical vibrations of the welding strip, reducing the risk of scratch damage to the strip surface.

[0031] In some embodiments, the ribbon processing apparatus further includes a flattening mechanism disposed between the ribbon adjustment mechanism and the ribbon cutting mechanism; the flattening mechanism is configured to flatten the junctions of the triangular and circular segments of the N ribbon segments closest to the ribbon cutting mechanism before the ribbon cutting mechanism cuts N ribbons.

[0032] Because the solder strip has a certain thickness and the solar cells are thin and brittle, the edges of the solar cells are easily damaged in the middle of the solder strip between adjacent solar cells when the solar cell strings are laminated into solar panel modules. Therefore, it is necessary to flatten the middle of the solder strip. By setting a flattening mechanism between the solder strip adjustment mechanism and the solder strip cutting mechanism, automatic flattening of the connection between the triangular and circular segments of the solder strip is achieved.

[0033] Furthermore, the flattening mechanism can maintain the pressure on the welding strip after completing the flattening process. In this way, the flattening mechanism can work with the welding strip cutting mechanism to cut the welding strip, preventing the new end of the welding strip after being cut from retracting away from the welding strip cutting mechanism, which would make it difficult for the welding strip traction mechanism to clamp the end of the welding strip from the welding strip cutting mechanism when performing the next traction.

[0034] In some embodiments, after the welding strip cutting mechanism cuts N welding strips, the flattening mechanism is further configured to push the N welding strips toward the welding strip cutting mechanism, such that the ends of the N welding strips extend backward out of the welding strip cutting mechanism.

[0035] This allows the new ends of the N weld strips, after being cut, to extend backward from the weld strip cutting mechanism, facilitating the weld strip traction mechanism to perform the next clamping and traction of the weld strip.

[0036] In some embodiments, each of the triangular and circular segments of the N weld strips has a flattened segment; the weld strip processing apparatus further includes a weld strip clamping mechanism disposed between the weld strip adjustment mechanism and the weld strip cutting mechanism; the clamping mechanism is configured to clamp the N weld strips when the weld strip cutting mechanism cuts the N weld strips.

[0037] The clamping mechanism clamps the welding strip when the welding strip cutting mechanism cuts N welding strips, to prevent the welding strip from retracting away from the welding strip cutting mechanism after being cut, which would make it difficult for the welding strip traction mechanism to clamp the end of the welding strip from the welding strip cutting mechanism.

[0038] In some embodiments, after the welding strip cutting mechanism cuts N welding strips, the welding strip clamping mechanism is further configured to push the N welding strips toward the welding strip cutting mechanism, such that the ends of the N welding strips extend backward out of the welding strip cutting mechanism.

[0039] This allows the new ends of the N weld strips, after being cut, to extend backward from the weld strip cutting mechanism, facilitating the weld strip traction mechanism to perform the next clamping and traction of the weld strip.

[0040] This application also provides a battery string production apparatus, which includes a conveying device, a fixing device, a battery cell supply device, and a welding strip processing device as described in any one of the above, wherein:

[0041] The welding strip traction mechanism and the battery cell supply device of the welding strip processing device are configured to lay the welding strip segments and battery cells in a string-like pattern onto the conveying device.

[0042] The conveying device is configured to transport the laid-out battery cells and welding strip segments to the bonding station;

[0043] The fastening device is set at the fastening station and is configured to fasten the welding strip group to the corresponding battery cell.

[0044] By coordinating a conveying device, a fixing device, a cell supply device, and a solder strip processing device, the battery string production equipment provided in this application achieves automatic welding of battery cells into strings. It also ensures the consistency of each solder strip segment in the solder strip group welded to adjacent battery cells.

[0045] This application also provides a method for processing solder strips, which is implemented by the solder strip processing apparatus described in any of the above claims, the method comprising:

[0046] A baseline is set at the testing station, and the baseline extends along the second horizontal direction;

[0047] The node detection mechanism is used to detect the position of the nodes on N welding strips that pass through the welding strip adjustment mechanism and the welding strip cutting mechanism in sequence along the first horizontal direction, and then the distance between the nodes of the N welding strips and the baseline is measured.

[0048] The weld strip to be adjusted and the corresponding adjustment amount are determined based on the distance between the nodes of N weld strips and the baseline. The weld strip to be adjusted is then adjusted in the first horizontal direction using a weld strip adjustment mechanism so that the nodes of the N weld strips are aligned in the second horizontal direction.

[0049] The welding strip traction mechanism is used to clamp the ends of N welding strips from the welding strip cutting mechanism and pull the N welding strips to the predetermined position;

[0050] N welding strips are cut using a welding strip cutting mechanism to obtain a welding strip segment group consisting of N cut welding strip segments.

[0051] The welding strip processing method provided in this application involves a node detection mechanism detecting the position of nodes on the N welding strips before the welding strip cutting mechanism cuts off welding strip segments from the N welding strips. The welding strip adjustment mechanism then adjusts the position of the welding strips based on the node position information of the N welding strips, thereby aligning the nodes on the N welding strips and ultimately ensuring that the welding strip cutting mechanism cuts off N welding strip segments from the nodes of the N welding strips.

[0052] In some embodiments, the solder strip processing method of this application includes: using an anti-rollover mechanism to limit the triangular segments on N solder strips to prevent rollover.

[0053] By implementing anti-flip limiting on the solder ribbon, the triangular segments on the ribbon are kept with their vertices facing upwards, ultimately ensuring that the cut-off triangular segments of the solder ribbon can be soldered to the front of the solar cell with their vertices facing upwards. This ensures, on the one hand, that the triangular segments of the solder ribbon form a stable metallized connection with the grid lines on the front of the solar cell, and on the other hand, that the beveled sides of the triangular segments of the solder ribbon reflect the light shining on them onto the front of the solar cell, thereby increasing the light-receiving area of ​​the front of the solar cell.

[0054] In some embodiments, when cutting N strips using a strip cutting mechanism, the strip processing method further includes: using a flattening mechanism to flatten the connection points of the triangular and circular segments of the N strip segments closest to the strip cutting mechanism.

[0055] The flattening mechanism is used to flatten the connection between the triangular and circular segments of the welding strip, so that a flattened segment is formed between the triangular and circular segments. Attached Figure Description

[0056] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the welding of two adjacent battery cells in a battery string;

[0057] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a battery cell with a circular segment of solder strip welded to its back;

[0058] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a battery cell with a triangular segment of solder strip welded to the front.

[0059] Figure 4 This is a partial structural diagram of the N weld strips that have been pulled out.

[0060] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the processing of N solder strips by the solder strip processing device in one embodiment of this application;

[0061] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the processing of N solder strips by a solder strip processing device according to another embodiment of this application.

[0062] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the anti-flipping component in an embodiment of this application.

[0063] Figures 1 to 7 Includes:

[0064] Node detection mechanism 1, camera 11, light source 12, welding strip adjustment mechanism 2, welding strip cutting mechanism 3, welding strip traction mechanism 4, anti-overturning mechanism 5, upper roller 51, lower roller 52, first groove 53, flattening mechanism 6, welding strip pressing mechanism 7, welding strip segment 100, circular segment 101, triangular segment 102, node 103, flattened segment 104. Detailed Implementation

[0065] To make the above-mentioned objects, features, and advantages of this application more apparent and understandable, the application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with this application. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of this application as detailed in the appended claims.

[0066] As described in the background section, when the solder ribbon feeding device feeds out N parallel solder ribbons, the feeding speed of each solder ribbon inevitably varies, resulting in uneven nodes at the junctions of adjacent solder ribbon segments. Ultimately, this causes the cutting positions of some solder ribbons in the solder ribbon group to deviate from the nodes, affecting the production quality of the battery string.

[0067] Therefore, this application provides a solder strip processing device that can automatically align the nodes on N solder strips before cutting the solder strips, thereby ensuring that the cutting position of all solder strips in the solder strip group is located at the node.

[0068] Figure 5 This diagram illustrates the processing of N solder strips by a solder strip processing apparatus according to one embodiment of this application. Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the processing of N solder strips by a solder strip processing apparatus according to another embodiment of this application is shown.

[0069] like Figures 5 to 6 As shown, the welding strip processing device provided in this application includes a node detection mechanism 1, a welding strip adjustment mechanism 2, a welding strip cutting mechanism 3, and a welding strip traction mechanism 4, wherein:

[0070] The welding strip adjustment mechanism 2, the welding strip cutting mechanism 3, and the welding strip traction mechanism 4 are arranged sequentially along the first horizontal direction (e.g., the X direction).

[0071] The welding strip traction mechanism 4 is configured to pick up N parallel welding strips (e.g., 11 in the figure) that have passed through the welding strip adjustment mechanism 2 and the welding strip cutting mechanism 3 in sequence from the welding strip cutting mechanism 3, and to pull the N welding strips away from the welding strip cutting mechanism 3 to a predetermined position along the first horizontal direction. Each welding strip includes alternating triangular segments 102 and circular segments 101. An adjacent triangular segment 102 and a circular segment 101 constitute a welding strip segment 100. A node 103 to be cut is formed between two adjacent welding strip segments 100.

[0072] The ribbon cutting mechanism 3 is configured to cut N ribbons when the ribbon traction mechanism pulls them to a predetermined position, thereby obtaining a ribbon segment group consisting of N ribbon segments. In other words, whenever the traction mechanism pulls N ribbon segments 100 out of the ribbon cutting mechanism 3 in parallel, the ribbon cutting mechanism 3 immediately performs a cutting operation, thus obtaining a ribbon segment group consisting of the cut-off N ribbon segments 100. This ribbon segment group can then be used to connect two adjacent battery cells in a battery string.

[0073] The node detection mechanism 1 is located on the side of the welding strip cutting mechanism away from the welding strip traction mechanism 4 (such as the left side). The node detection mechanism 1 is configured to perform position detection on the nodes 103 on the N welding strips located at the detection station A before the welding strip traction mechanism 4 clamps the N welding strips, so as to obtain the position of the nodes of the N welding strips.

[0074] The welding strip adjustment mechanism 2 is configured to adjust the position of the welding strip to be adjusted in the first horizontal direction according to the node position of the N welding strips, so that the nodes 103 of the N welding strips are aligned in the second horizontal direction (e.g., the Y direction), and the second horizontal direction is perpendicular to the first horizontal direction.

[0075] The welding strip processing apparatus provided in this application includes a node detection mechanism 1 that detects the position of nodes 103 on the N welding strips before the welding strip cutting mechanism 3 cuts off welding strip segments from the N welding strips. The welding strip adjustment mechanism 2 then adjusts the position of the welding strips according to the node position information of the N welding strips, thereby aligning the nodes 103 on the N welding strips. This ensures that the welding strip cutting mechanism 3 cuts off N welding strip segments from the nodes 103 of the N welding strips.

[0076] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, optionally, the node detection mechanism 1 includes a light source 12 and a camera 11 arranged in a vertical direction. The detection station A is within the shooting range of the camera 11. The light source 12 is configured to provide illumination at least when the camera 11 performs position detection on the nodes 103 located on the N weld strips at the detection station A.

[0077] After acquiring images of N solder ribbons at the inspection station, camera 11 analyzes these images to obtain the positional information of the nodes on the N solder ribbons. For example, camera 11 is connected to a PLC controller, which stores an image analysis algorithm. Camera 11 transmits the acquired images to the PLC controller, which then runs the image analysis algorithm to identify the nodes on the N solder ribbons and obtain their positional information.

[0078] When camera 11 takes pictures of N welding strips at the inspection station, light source 12 provides illumination to the N welding strips at the inspection station to ensure that camera 11 obtains a clear image, thereby improving the positioning accuracy of the node.

[0079] Of course, in other embodiments, a node detection mechanism 1 with a different structure can also be used to perform position detection on the nodes 103 located on the N solder strips at detection station A. For example, a laser scanning device can be used to perform node detection. The laser scanning device includes a line laser emitter and a sensor. The line laser emitter emits a strip laser with a width covering 11 solder strips. The strip laser illuminates the N solder strips at a predetermined incident angle (e.g., 75º), and the light reflected back from the solder strips is captured by the sensor. Since there is a large difference in the reflected light intensity between the triangular segment 102 and the circular segment 101, the sensor can identify the nodes of the solder strips by analyzing the reflected light, thereby achieving the detection and positioning of the nodes.

[0080] Optionally, the welding strip adjustment mechanism 2 includes N adjustment components arranged along the second horizontal direction and corresponding one-to-one with the N welding strips. Each adjustment component can clamp the corresponding welding strip and drive the corresponding welding strip to move in the first horizontal direction so that the nodes of the N welding strips are aligned in the second horizontal direction.

[0081] Each solder strip is independently positioned by a corresponding adjustment component, enabling flexible positioning of each solder strip and ensuring that the nodes 103 of the N solder strips are aligned in the second horizontal direction. For example, a reference line extending along the second horizontal direction for alignment can be set at inspection station A first. Each adjustment component determines its adjustment distance based on the distance between the node 103 of the corresponding solder strip and the reference line, and then adjusts the node 103 of the corresponding solder strip to the reference line, so that the nodes 103 of the N solder strips are all located on the reference line.

[0082] Optionally, each adjustment component includes a translation drive unit and a clamping unit. The clamping unit (e.g., a pneumatic gripper or a servo-driven gripper) is connected to the drive end of the translation drive unit (e.g., a linear motor or a lead screw module). When the corresponding welding strip needs to be adjusted, the clamping unit first clamps the welding strip, and then the translation drive unit drives the clamping unit to move along the first horizontal direction until the node on the welding strip moves to the target position (e.g., the baseline).

[0083] like Figure 3 As shown, the triangular segment 102 of the solder strip needs to be soldered to the front of the solar cell 200 with the vertex facing upwards. This ensures that the triangular segment 102 and the grid lines on the front of the solar cell 200 form a stable metallized connection, and ensures that the two beveled sides of the triangular segment 102 can reflect the light shining on it to the front of the solar cell 200, thereby increasing the light-receiving area on the front of the solar cell.

[0084] like Figures 5 to 6 As shown, optionally, the solder strip processing apparatus of this application further includes a plurality of anti-rollover mechanisms 5 spaced apart along a first horizontal direction. Each anti-rollover mechanism 5 has N anti-rollover channels forming along a second horizontal direction, each corresponding to one of the N solder strips. Each solder strip passes through its corresponding anti-rollover channel. The anti-rollover channel is configured to limit the rollover of the triangular segments 102 on the solder strip, thereby keeping the apex of the triangular segments 102 facing upwards. Ultimately, this ensures that the triangular segments 102 of the cut solder strip segment 100 can be soldered to the front side of the battery cell 200 with their apex facing upwards.

[0085] In one optional embodiment, the anti-rollover mechanism includes N anti-rollover components arranged along a second horizontal direction and corresponding one-to-one with the N solder strips. For example... Figure 7 As shown, the anti-rollover assembly includes an upper roller 51 and a lower roller 52 arranged vertically. The mounting shafts of the upper roller 51 and the lower roller 52 both extend along the second horizontal direction. A first groove 53 with an acute triangular cross-section is provided on the circumferential surface of the upper roller 51. The first groove 53 cooperates with the circumferential surface of the lower roller 52 to form an anti-rollover channel for the welding strip to pass through.

[0086] The upper roller 51 and lower roller 52, each with a first groove 53, provide anti-overturning protection for the welding strip. These rollers rotate under the influence of the welding strip. Therefore, the anti-overturning assembly, while preventing the welding strip from overturning, avoids obstructing its normal transport and causing it to be stretched or deformed. Furthermore, each welding strip is protected by an independent anti-overturning assembly, facilitating installation and maintenance. For example, if one anti-overturning assembly malfunctions, only that assembly needs to be repaired or replaced.

[0087] like Figure 7As shown, optionally, the side length a of one side of the cross-section of the triangular segment of the welding strip and the side length b of one side of the cross-section of the first groove 53 satisfy: 2a>b>1.3a.

[0088] This design ensures that the first groove 53 can prevent the triangular segment 102 of the solder ribbon from flipping over. On the other hand, it ensures that there is sufficient clearance between the triangular segment 102 of the solder ribbon and the inner wall of the first groove 53, preventing the inner wall of the first groove 53 from rubbing against the triangular segment 102 of the solder ribbon and damaging the solder on the surface of the triangular segment 102 of the solder ribbon.

[0089] Of course, by setting the cross-section of the first groove 53 in this way, it can also be ensured that the circular segment 101 of the solder strip can pass smoothly through the anti-overturning channel.

[0090] like Figure 7 As shown, optionally, the anti-rollover assembly also includes a first elastic element 54, configured to elastically press at least one of the upper roller 51 and the lower roller 52 against the other. For example, Figure 7 In the embodiment shown, the first elastic member 54 elastically presses the upper roller 51 against the lower roller 52.

[0091] By incorporating the first elastic element 54, the upper roller 51 and the lower roller 52 are elastically pressed together. This creates a closed anti-overturning channel between the first groove 53 and the circumferential surface of the lower roller 52, improving anti-overturning stability. Furthermore, the elastic contact between the upper roller 51 and the lower roller 52 absorbs vertical vibrations of the welding strip, reducing the risk of scratch damage to the surface of the welding strip.

[0092] The first elastic element 54 can be, for example, a spring capable of stretching and contracting in the vertical direction.

[0093] In another optional embodiment, the anti-rollover mechanism 5 includes an upper roller and a lower roller arranged in pairs, wherein: the upper roller and the lower roller both extend along a second horizontal direction, and the circumferential surface of the upper roller is provided with N rings of second grooves with acute triangular cross sections along the second horizontal direction, and each second groove cooperates with the circumferential surface of the lower roller to form an anti-rollover channel through which the corresponding welding strip passes.

[0094] The upper and lower rollers, each with a second groove, provide anti-overturning protection for the welding strip. These rollers can rotate under the influence of the welding strip. Therefore, the anti-overturning assembly, while preventing the welding strip from overturning, avoids obstructing its normal transport and preventing it from being stretched or deformed.

[0095] Similarly, optionally, the side length a of one side of the cross-section of the triangular segment of the welding strip and the side length b of one side of the cross-section of the second groove satisfy: 2a>b>1.3a.

[0096] This design ensures, on the one hand, that the second groove can effectively prevent the triangular segment of the solder ribbon from flipping over. On the other hand, it ensures that there is sufficient clearance between the triangular segment of the solder ribbon and the inner wall of the second groove, preventing the inner wall of the second groove from scraping against the triangular segment of the solder ribbon and damaging the solder on the surface of the triangular segment.

[0097] Of course, by setting the cross-section of the second groove in this way, it can also be ensured that the circular segment of the welding strip can pass smoothly through the anti-overturning channel.

[0098] Similarly, optionally, the anti-rollover mechanism 5 also includes a second elastic element configured to elastically press at least one of the upper roller and the lower roller against the other.

[0099] By incorporating a second elastic element, the upper and lower rollers are elastically pressed together. This creates a closed anti-overturning channel between the second groove and the circumferential surface of the lower roller, improving anti-overturning stability. Furthermore, the elastic contact between the upper and lower rollers absorbs vertical vibrations of the welding strip, reducing the risk of scratch damage to the surface of the welding strip.

[0100] The second elastic element can be, for example, a spring capable of stretching and contracting in the vertical direction.

[0101] As is known to those skilled in the art, due to the thickness of the solder strip and the thin, brittle nature of the solar cells, when the solar cell string is laminated into a solar panel assembly, the middle of the solder strip between two adjacent solar cells (e.g., ...) Figure 1 The part shown in the dashed box is prone to damage to the edges of the battery cell, so it is necessary to flatten the middle part of the solder strip.

[0102] In view of this, such as Figure 5 As shown, optionally, the solder strip processing apparatus in this embodiment further includes a flattening mechanism 6 disposed between the solder strip adjustment mechanism 2 and the solder strip cutting mechanism 3. The flattening mechanism 6 is configured to flatten the junctions of the triangular and circular segments of the N solder strip segments closest to the solder strip cutting mechanism 3 before the solder strip cutting mechanism 3 cuts the N solder strips, thereby forming a flattened segment 104 between the triangular and circular segments of the N solder strip segments.

[0103] Furthermore, the flattening mechanism 6 can maintain the pressure on the welding strip after completing the flattening process. In this way, the flattening mechanism 6 can cooperate with the welding strip cutting mechanism 3 to cut the welding strip, preventing the new end of the welding strip after being cut from retracting away from the welding strip cutting mechanism 3, which would make it difficult for the welding strip traction mechanism 4 to clamp the end of the welding strip from the welding strip cutting mechanism 3 when performing the next traction.

[0104] The flattening mechanism 6 can be any existing device with various structures capable of flattening the welding strip. For example, the flattening mechanism 6 includes a mounting frame, an upper pressure block, a lower pressure block, and a driving component, wherein the upper and lower pressure blocks are mounted on the mounting frame with their upper and lower sides facing each other. The welding strip passes between the upper and lower pressure blocks. Before the welding strip cutting mechanism 3 cuts N welding strips, the driving component drives the upper and lower pressure blocks to squeeze the welding strip from both sides, thereby flattening the welding strip.

[0105] Optionally, after the welding strip cutting mechanism 3 cuts N welding strips, the flattening mechanism 6 is also configured to push the N welding strips toward the welding strip cutting mechanism 3, so that the ends of the N welding strips extend backward out of the welding strip cutting mechanism 3, thereby facilitating the welding strip traction mechanism 4 to perform the next clamping and traction of the welding strips.

[0106] For example, the flattening mechanism 6 also includes a translation drive, and the mounting bracket of the flattening mechanism 6 is connected to the movable part of the translation drive. After the welding strip cutting mechanism 3 cuts N welding strips, the translation drive drives the mounting bracket to move toward the welding strip cutting mechanism 3, thereby causing the ends of the N welding strips to extend backward beyond the welding strip cutting mechanism 3.

[0107] like Figure 6 As shown, in another embodiment, each of the triangular segments 102 and circular segments 101 of the N solder strips has a flattened segment 104. That is, the N solder strips pulled out by the solder strip traction mechanism 4 already have flattened segments 104, so the solder strip processing device of this application does not need to perform a flattening operation on the solder strips.

[0108] Optionally, the solder strip processing apparatus in this embodiment further includes a solder strip clamping mechanism 7 disposed between the solder strip adjusting mechanism 2 and the solder strip cutting mechanism 3. The solder strip clamping mechanism 7 is configured to clamp N solder strips when the solder strip cutting mechanism 3 cuts N solder strips.

[0109] This avoids the situation where, after the welding strip is cut, the new end of the welding strip retracts away from the welding strip cutting mechanism 3, making it difficult for the welding strip traction mechanism 4 to clamp the end of the welding strip from the welding strip cutting mechanism when performing the next traction.

[0110] The welding strip pressing mechanism 7 can adopt a structure similar to the flattening mechanism 6 in the previous embodiment. The difference is that the driving force of the driving member on the upper and lower pressing blocks is sufficient to make the upper and lower pressing blocks press the welding strip, thus avoiding flattening the welding strip.

[0111] Similarly, optionally, after the welding strip cutting mechanism 3 cuts N welding strips, the welding strip clamping mechanism 7 is also configured to push the N welding strips toward the welding strip cutting mechanism 3, so that the ends of the N welding strips extend backward out of the welding strip cutting mechanism 3, thereby facilitating the welding strip traction mechanism 4 to perform the next clamping and traction of the welding strips.

[0112] For example, the welding strip clamping mechanism 7 also includes a translation drive, and the mounting bracket of the welding strip clamping mechanism 7 is connected to the movable part of the translation drive. After the welding strip cutting mechanism 3 cuts N welding strips, the translation drive drives the mounting bracket to move toward the welding strip cutting mechanism 3, thereby causing the ends of the N welding strips to extend backward beyond the welding strip cutting mechanism 3.

[0113] The welding strip cutting mechanism 3 in this embodiment can be any existing device capable of cutting welding strips. For example, the welding strip cutting mechanism 3 includes an upper cutter, a lower cutter, and a driving member, with N welding strips passing between the upper and lower cutters. When the N welding strips are pulled into position by the welding strip traction mechanism 4, the driving member drives the upper and lower cutters to cut together, thereby synchronously cutting the N welding strips.

[0114] The welding strip traction mechanism 4 in this embodiment can employ various existing devices capable of traction of welding strip groups. For example, the welding strip traction mechanism 4 includes a drive module and N gripper assemblies mounted on the drive module, each corresponding to one of the N welding strips. The drive module drives the N gripper assemblies to move synchronously, so that the N gripper assemblies grip the ends of the N welding strips from the welding strip cutting mechanism 3 one by one, and pull the N welding strips away from the welding strip cutting mechanism 3.

[0115] This application also provides a method for processing solder strips, which is implemented by the solder strip processing apparatus described in any of the above claims, the method comprising:

[0116] A baseline is set at inspection station A, and the baseline extends along the second horizontal direction.

[0117] The node detection mechanism 1 is used to detect the position of nodes 103 on N welding strips that pass through the welding strip adjustment mechanism 2 and the welding strip cutting mechanism 3 in sequence along the first horizontal direction, and then the distance between nodes 103 of the N welding strips and the baseline is measured.

[0118] Based on the distance between the nodes 103 of the N weld strips and the baseline, the weld strips to be adjusted and the corresponding adjustment amount are determined. The weld strip adjustment mechanism 2 is used to adjust the position of the weld strips to be adjusted in the first horizontal direction so that the nodes of the N weld strips are aligned in the second horizontal direction.

[0119] The welding strip traction mechanism 4 is used to clamp the ends of N welding strips from the welding strip cutting mechanism and pull the N welding strips to the predetermined position.

[0120] The welding strip cutting mechanism 3 is used to cut N welding strips to obtain a welding strip segment group consisting of N cut welding strip segments.

[0121] The welding strip processing method provided in this application involves a node detection mechanism 1 detecting the position of nodes on the N welding strips before the welding strip cutting mechanism 3 cuts off welding strip segments from the N welding strips. The welding strip adjustment mechanism 2 then adjusts the position of the welding strips based on the node position information of the N welding strips, thereby aligning the nodes on the N welding strips and ultimately ensuring that the welding strip cutting mechanism 3 cuts off N welding strip segments from the nodes.

[0122] Optionally, the baseline is a straight line L, the distance between which and the strip cutting mechanism 3 is an integer multiple of the length of the strip segment 100, for example... Figure 5 , Figure 6 The value is twice that of the previous value. All weld strips with node 103 that are not on the straight line L are considered as weld strips to be adjusted. After the positions of all weld strips to be adjusted are completed, the nodes of N weld strips are all located on the straight line L.

[0123] Optionally, the solder strip processing method of this application further includes: using the anti-rollover mechanism 5 to implement anti-rollover limiting on the triangular segments on the N solder strips.

[0124] By implementing anti-flipping limiting on the solder ribbon, the triangular segments on the solder ribbon are kept with their vertices facing upwards, ultimately ensuring that the triangular segments of the cut solder ribbon segments can be welded to the front of the battery cell with their vertices facing upwards.

[0125] Optionally, when cutting N strips using the strip cutting mechanism 3, the strip processing method in this embodiment further includes: using the flattening mechanism 6 to flatten the connection between the triangular and circular segments of the N strip segments closest to the strip cutting mechanism 3.

[0126] This application also provides a battery string production apparatus, which includes a conveying device, a fixing device, a battery cell supply device, and a welding strip processing device as described in any one of the above, wherein:

[0127] The welding strip traction mechanism and the battery cell supply device of the welding strip processing device are configured to lay the welding strip segments and battery cells in a string-like pattern onto the conveying device.

[0128] The conveying device is configured to transport the laid-out battery cells and welding strip segments to the bonding station;

[0129] The fastening device is set at the fastening station and is configured to fasten the welding strip group to the corresponding battery cell.

[0130] By coordinating a conveying device, a fixing device, a cell supply device, and a solder strip processing device, the battery string production equipment provided in this application achieves automatic welding of battery cells into strings. It also ensures the consistency of each solder strip segment in the solder strip group welded to adjacent battery cells.

[0131] This application provides a sufficiently detailed and specific description. Those skilled in the art should understand that the descriptions in the embodiments are merely exemplary, and all changes made without departing from the true spirit and scope of this application should fall within its protection scope. The scope of protection claimed in this application is defined by the claims, not by the above descriptions in the embodiments. Without contradiction, some optional components in one embodiment can also be configured in another embodiment, and some preferred structures of the same component in one embodiment can also be configured in another embodiment. Furthermore, there may be slight differences in the wording of the names of certain components in different embodiments; these slight differences will not affect the understanding of the technical solution of the present invention by those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A welding strip processing device, characterized in that, The welding strip processing device includes a node detection mechanism, a welding strip adjustment mechanism, a welding strip cutting mechanism, and a welding strip traction mechanism, wherein: The welding strip adjustment mechanism, the welding strip cutting mechanism, and the welding strip traction mechanism are arranged sequentially along the first horizontal direction; The welding strip traction mechanism is configured to clamp N parallel welding strips that pass sequentially through the welding strip adjustment mechanism and the welding strip cutting mechanism from the welding strip cutting mechanism, and to pull the N welding strips away from the welding strip cutting mechanism to a predetermined position along the first horizontal direction, wherein each welding strip includes alternating triangular segments and circular segments, an adjacent triangular segment and a circular segment constitute a welding strip segment, and a node to be cut is formed between two adjacent welding strip segments; The welding strip cutting mechanism is configured to cut N welding strips when the welding strip traction mechanism pulls N welding strips to a predetermined position, so as to obtain a welding strip segment group consisting of N welding strip segments; The node detection mechanism is located on the side of the welding strip cutting mechanism away from the welding strip traction mechanism. The node detection mechanism is configured to perform position detection on the nodes on the N welding strips located at the detection station before the welding strip traction mechanism clamps the N welding strips, so as to obtain the node positions of the N welding strips. The welding strip adjustment mechanism is configured to adjust the position of the welding strip to be adjusted in the first horizontal direction according to the node position of the N welding strips, so that the nodes of the N welding strips are aligned in the second horizontal direction, and the second horizontal direction is perpendicular to the first horizontal direction. The welding strip adjustment mechanism includes N adjustment components arranged along the second horizontal direction and corresponding one-to-one with the N welding strips. Each adjustment component can clamp the corresponding welding strip and drive the corresponding welding strip to move in the first horizontal direction so that the nodes of the N welding strips are aligned in the second horizontal direction.

2. The welding strip processing apparatus as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The node detection mechanism includes a light source and a camera arranged in a vertical direction. The detection station is within the shooting range of the camera. The light source is configured to provide illumination at least when the camera performs position detection on the nodes on the N weld strips located at the detection station.

3. The welding strip processing apparatus as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The welding strip processing device further includes a plurality of anti-overturning mechanisms spaced apart along the first horizontal direction, and N anti-overturning channels corresponding one-to-one with the N welding strips are formed in the anti-overturning mechanism along the second horizontal direction. Each of the solder strips passes through a corresponding anti-rollover channel, which is configured to prevent the triangular segments on the solder strip from rolling over.

4. The welding strip processing apparatus as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The anti-rollover mechanism includes N anti-rollover components arranged along the second horizontal direction and corresponding one-to-one with the N welding strips. Each anti-rollover component includes an upper roller and a lower roller arranged vertically, wherein: The mounting shafts of the upper roller and the lower roller both extend along the second horizontal direction. A first groove with an acute-angled triangle cross-section is provided around the circumference of the upper roller. The first groove cooperates with the circumference of the lower roller to form the anti-rollover channel. The length of one side of the cross-section of the triangular segment of the welding strip is a, and the length of one side of the cross-section of the first groove is b, where 2a>b>1.3a.

5. The welding strip processing apparatus as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The anti-rollover assembly further includes a first elastic element configured to elastically press at least one of the upper roller and the lower roller against the other.

6. The welding strip processing apparatus as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The anti-tumble mechanism includes an upper roller and a lower roller arranged in pairs, wherein: Both the upper roller and the lower roller extend along the second horizontal direction. The circumferential surface of the upper roller is provided with N rings of second grooves with acute triangular cross-sections along the second horizontal direction. Each second groove cooperates with the circumferential surface of the lower roller to form an anti-rollover channel. The length of one side of the cross-section of the triangular segment of the welding strip is a, and the length of one side of the cross-section of the second groove is b, where 2a>b>1.3a.

7. The welding strip processing apparatus as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The anti-rollover mechanism further includes a second elastic element configured to elastically press at least one of the upper roller and the lower roller against the other.

8. The welding strip processing apparatus as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The welding strip processing device further includes a flattening mechanism disposed between the welding strip adjusting mechanism and the welding strip cutting mechanism; The flattening mechanism is configured to flatten the junctions of the triangular and circular segments of the N weld strip segments closest to the weld strip cutting mechanism before the weld strip cutting mechanism cuts the N weld strips.

9. The welding strip processing apparatus as described in claim 8, characterized in that, After the welding strip cutting mechanism cuts N welding strips, the flattening mechanism is further configured to push the N welding strips toward the welding strip cutting mechanism, so that the ends of the N welding strips extend backward out of the welding strip cutting mechanism.

10. The welding strip processing apparatus as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Each of the three segments of the N weld strips has a flattened segment between its triangular and circular segments; The welding strip processing device further includes a welding strip pressing mechanism disposed between the welding strip adjusting mechanism and the welding strip cutting mechanism; The welding strip clamping mechanism is configured to clamp N welding strips when the welding strip cutting mechanism cuts N welding strips.

11. The welding strip processing apparatus as described in claim 10, characterized in that, After the welding strip cutting mechanism cuts N welding strips, the welding strip clamping mechanism is further configured to push the N welding strips toward the welding strip cutting mechanism, so that the ends of the N welding strips extend backward out of the welding strip cutting mechanism.

12. A battery string production device, characterized in that, The battery string production equipment includes a conveying device, a fixing device, a battery cell supply device, and a welding strip processing device as described in any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein: The welding strip traction mechanism of the welding strip processing device and the battery cell supply device are configured to lay the welding strip segments and battery cells in a neat string onto the conveying device; The conveying device is configured to transport the laid-out battery cells and welding strip segments to the fixing station; The fastening device is located at the fastening station and is configured to fasten the welding strip group to the corresponding battery cell.

13. A method for processing solder strips, characterized in that, The solder strip processing method is implemented by the solder strip processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, and the solder strip processing method includes: A baseline is set at the testing station, and the baseline extends along a second horizontal direction; The node detection mechanism is used to detect the position of the nodes on N welding strips that pass through the welding strip adjustment mechanism and the welding strip cutting mechanism in sequence along the first horizontal direction, and then the distance between the nodes of the N welding strips and the baseline is measured. Based on the distance between the nodes of the N weld strips and the baseline, the weld strip to be adjusted and the corresponding adjustment amount are determined. The weld strip adjustment mechanism is used to adjust the position of the weld strip to be adjusted in the first horizontal direction so that the nodes of the N weld strips are aligned in the second horizontal direction. The welding strip traction mechanism is used to clamp the ends of N welding strips from the welding strip cutting mechanism and pull the N welding strips to a predetermined position; The welding strip cutting mechanism is used to cut N welding strips to obtain a welding strip segment group consisting of N cut welding strip segments.

14. The method for processing solder strips as described in claim 13, characterized in that, The solder strip processing method is implemented by the solder strip processing apparatus according to claim 3, and the solder strip processing method further includes: An anti-rollover mechanism is used to prevent the triangular segments on the N weld strips from rolling over.

15. The method for processing solder strips as described in claim 13, characterized in that, The solder strip processing method is implemented by the solder strip processing device according to claim 8. When cutting N solder strips using the solder strip cutting mechanism, the solder strip processing method further includes: The flattening mechanism is used to flatten the junctions of the triangular and circular segments of the N weld strip segments that are closest to the weld strip cutting mechanism.

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