Electrolyte injection device for secondary battery

Abstract

The present invention relates to an electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery, and more particularly, to an electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery, the device comprising: a frame unit comprising a lower plate and an upper plate spaced apart from the lower plate by a predetermined distance and having an opening in the center thereof; a tray unit which is detachably positioned above the lower plate and is provided with a discharge hopper into which a secondary battery and an electrolyte solution are supplied; the injection unit is positioned above the tray unit, and is used for supplying the electrolyte to the discharging hopper; and a needle unit located above the upper plate for supplying an electrolyte solution to the injection unit, the injection unit and the needle unit having a structure separable from the upper plate.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 2024-0009002, filed on January 19, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.

[0002] The present application relates to an electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery, and more particularly, to an electrolyte injection device having a structure that facilitates replacement or maintenance of an injection unit. BACKGROUND

[0003] With the technical development of mobile devices and the increasing demand therefor, secondary batteries capable of charging and discharging have been used as energy sources for various mobile devices. Secondary batteries are also attracting attention as energy sources for electric vehicles and hybrid electric vehicles, which are alternatives to existing gasoline and diesel vehicles using fossil fuels.

[0004] According to the shape of the battery case, secondary batteries are classified into cylindrical batteries having electrode assemblies installed in cylindrical metal cans, prismatic batteries having electrode assemblies installed in prismatic metal cans, and pouch-shaped batteries having electrode assemblies installed in pouch-shaped cases made of aluminum laminated sheets.

[0005] Meanwhile, in manufacturing cylindrical batteries, an injection process of injecting electrolyte into a case in which an electrode assembly is installed is required to be performed so that the electrode assembly is sufficiently immersed in the electrolyte and maintains the above state for a certain period of time so that micropores in the electrode assembly are filled with the electrolyte.

[0006] In this regard, Figure 1 is a conceptual view of a conventional electrolyte supply device, Figure 2 is an enlarged view showing a portion of the conventional electrolyte supply device.

[0007] As Figure 1 shown, the conventional electrolyte supply device includes a base nozzle member 10 having a plurality of nozzle portions 11, a plunger member 20 configured to open and close discharge ports 11a, a plunger fixing plate member 30, a lifting device 40 configured to move the plunger fixing plate member 30 up and down, a plate guide portion 50 configured to guide the operation of the lifting device 40, a housing member 60, and a vacuum pump 70.

[0008] In the conventional electrolyte supply device, the nozzle portion 11 is provided with a supply chamber 12 configured to accommodate electrolyte, and discharge ports 11a configured to discharge the electrolyte are formed at a lower portion of the nozzle portion, so that the electrolyte in the supply chamber 12 is injected into a battery case 5.

[0009] In addition, as Figure 2As shown, an opening and closing portion 21 is provided at the end of the plunger member 20, the opening and closing portion 21 is inserted into an opening and closing recess 11b to plug the discharge port 11a, an O-ring 21a is in close contact with the inner circumferential surface of the opening and closing recess 11b, and is coupled to the opening and closing portion 21. Thus, when the plunger member 20 is moved downward and is inserted into the opening and closing recess 11b, the O-ring 21a is in close contact with the inner circumferential surface of the opening and closing recess 11b, thereby plugging the discharge port 11a, and sealing the inside of the supply chamber 12.

[0010] Since the electrolyte injection process is essential for the manufacture of secondary batteries, the above operation must be repeated an indefinite number of times, and thus various parts must be replaced or maintained.

[0011] However, in the conventional electrolyte supply device, the housing clamp member 61 including the storage housing member 62 and the battery housing 5 is installed in the housing member 60, and the vacuum pump 70 is connected to the side surface of the housing member 60, so that it is very difficult to separate the housing clamp member 61.

[0012] (Prior Art Document)

[0013] (Patent Document 1) Korean Patent Application Publication No. 2009-0036793

[0014] (Patent Document 2) Korean Registered Patent Publication No. 1876834 SUMMARY

[0015] [TECHNICAL PROBLEM]

[0016] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery having a structure that facilitates the removal of an injection unit configured to supply an electrolyte.

[0017] Another object of the present invention is to provide an electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery having a structure that facilitates the installation and detachment of each unit component constituting the injection unit.

[0018] Another object of the present invention is to provide an electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery capable of quickly and reliably installing and detaching an injection unit.

[0019] [TECHNICAL SOLUTION]

[0020] The electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application to achieve the above object includes a frame unit (100) including a lower plate (110) and an upper plate (120) spaced apart from the lower plate (110) by a predetermined distance, a central opening of the upper plate; a tray unit (200) detachably located above the lower plate (110), the tray unit being provided with a lower hopper (212) into which a secondary battery (B) and an electrolyte are supplied; an injection unit (300) located above the tray unit (200), the injection unit being configured to supply the electrolyte to the lower hopper (212); and a needle unit (400) located above the upper plate (120), the needle unit being configured to supply the electrolyte to the injection unit (300), wherein the injection unit (300) and the needle unit (400) are separable from the upper plate (120).

[0021] Further, in the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application, the injection unit (300) can include a first holder (310) of a plate shape having a second through-hole (311), a socket portion (320) housed in the second through-hole (311), an upper hopper (330) extending upward from the first holder (310) in a state in which the upper hopper (330) is fastened to the socket portion (320) at a lower side thereof, and a nozzle portion (340) extending downward from the first holder (310) in a state in which the nozzle portion (340) is fastened to the socket portion (320) at an upper side thereof, and the needle unit (400) can include a second holder (410) of a plate shape having a third through-hole (411) and a needle (420) housed in the second holder (410).

[0022] Further, in the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application, the first holder (310) and the upper plate (120) can be detachably connected to each other by a male threaded fastener and a female threaded fastener.

[0023] Further, in the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application, the socket portion (320) can be fixed to the second through-hole (311) by a male threaded fastener and a female threaded fastener.

[0024] Further, in the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application, the upper hopper (330) can be fixed to the socket portion (320) by a male threaded fastener and a female threaded fastener.

[0025] Further, in the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application, the nozzle portion (340) can be fixed to the socket portion (320) by a male threaded fastener and a female threaded fastener.

[0026] Further, in the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application, the injection unit (300) can further include a sealing member (350) housed in the socket portion (320), the sealing member (350) being interposed between the upper hopper (330) and the nozzle portion (340).

[0027] Further, in the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application, the injection unit (300) can further include a first handle (360) configured to allow the first holder (310) to be gripped by the first handle.

[0028] Further, in the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application, the nozzle portion (340) can be formed in a hollow tube shape having an open top and an open bottom, and can be provided with one or more slits (341) in a side surface thereof.

[0029] Further, in the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application, the one or more slits (341) can be formed in a spiral shape along the side surface of the nozzle portion (340).

[0030] Further, the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application can further include a lifting unit configured to move the injection unit upward and downward while supporting the injection unit.

[0031] Further, in the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application, the lifting unit (500) can include a base portion (510), a support portion (520) configured to support a lower surface of the first holder (310), and a lifting portion (530) configured to move the support portion (520) upward and downward.

[0032] Further, in the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application, the lifting unit (500) can further include a second handle (540) configured to allow the base (510) to be gripped by the second handle.

[0033] Further, in the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application, the lifting unit (500) can further include a second handle (540) configured to allow the base (510) to be gripped by the second handle.

[0034] Further, in the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application, the lifting unit (500) can further include a second handle (540) configured to allow the base (510) to be gripped by the second handle.

[0035] [Advantageous Effects]

[0036] The electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application has the following advantages: the injection unit is positioned below the lower plate and is detachably fixed to the lower plate, so that it is very easy to perform inspection or repair.

[0037] Further, the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application has the following advantages: the first holder, the spigot portion, the upper hopper, and the nozzle portion constituting the injection unit can be fixed or separated by female and male threaded fasteners, so that each component is easily replaced, and process time can be reduced.

[0038] Further, the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application has the following advantages: a lift for removing or installing the injection unit is further included, so that the risk of accidents during the process can be reduced, and the time required for installation and disassembly can be reduced. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0039] Figure 1 is a conceptual view of a conventional electrolyte supply device.

[0040] Figure 2 is an enlarged view showing a part of the conventional electrolyte supply device.

[0041] Figure 3 is a perspective view of an electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application in a state in which an injection unit and a needle unit are coupled to each other and a lifting unit is installed below the injection unit.

[0042] Figure 4 is a perspective view of an electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery shown in Figure 3 FIG. 1, when viewed in another direction.

[0043] Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the inside of an electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery shown in Figure 3 FIG. 1.

[0044] Figure 6 is a front view of an electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery shown in Figure 5 FIG. 1.

[0045] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a tray unit installed to an electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application.

[0046] Figure 8 is a front view of a tray unit shown in Figure 7 FIG. 1.

[0047] Figure 9 is a perspective view of an electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application in a state in which the injection unit and the needle unit are separated from each other and the lifting unit is installed below the injection unit.

[0048] Figure 10 is a front view of an electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery shown in Figure 9 FIG. 1.

[0049] Figure 11 is a perspective view showing the inside of an electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery shown in Figure 9 FIG. 1.

[0050] Figure 12 is a perspective view showing a state in which an injection unit constituting an electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application is seated on a lifting unit.

[0051] Figure 13 is a front view showing a state in which Figure 12 the injection unit shown in FIG. 1 is seated on the lifting unit.

[0052] Figure 14is a perspective view of an injection unit constituting an electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application.

[0053] Figure 15 is Figure 14 a front view of the injection unit shown in

[0054] Figure 16 is Figure 15 an enlarged sectional view of part "A" of

[0055] Figure 17 is Figure 15 an exploded perspective view of part "A" of

[0056] Figure 18 is a sectional view showing a process of disassembling components constituting an injection unit in an electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application.

[0057] Figure 19 is a perspective view showing a state before coupling between an injection unit and a tray unit in an electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application.

[0058] Figure 20 is a front view showing a state before the injection unit and the tray unit shown in Figure 19 are coupled to each other.

[0059] Figure 21 is a front view showing a state in which the liquid injection unit and the tray unit in the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application are coupled to each other.

[0060] Figure 22 is a perspective view of a needle mounted to an electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application.

[0061] Figure 23 is a sectional view showing a structure in which an injection unit and a needle unit in an electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application are coupled to each other.

[0062] Figure 24 is an enlarged view of a sealing member constituting an injection unit in an electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application.

[0063] Figure 25 is a perspective view of a lifting unit constituting an electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application when viewed in one direction.

[0064] Figure 26 is a perspective view of the lifting unit shown in Figure 25 when viewed in another direction. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0065] In the present application, it is to be understood that the terms "include", "have", "comprise" and the like when used in this specification, designate the presence of the stated features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0066] In addition, the same reference numerals are used to designate components having the same function or operation in all of the accompanying drawings. In the entire specification, in the case where a certain component is referred to as being "connected to" another component, the one component can be directly connected to the other component, or can be indirectly connected to the other component via other components. In addition, "including a predetermined element" does not mean that other elements are excluded, but means that such elements can be further included, unless otherwise specified.

[0067] Hereinafter, an electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0068] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application in a state in which the injection unit and the needle unit are coupled to each other, and the lifting unit is installed below the injection unit, Figure 4 is a perspective view of the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application in a state in which the injection unit and the needle unit are coupled to each other, and the lifting unit is installed below the injection unit, Figure 3 is a perspective view of the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application in a state in which the injection unit and the needle unit are coupled to each other, and the lifting unit is installed below the injection unit, Figure 5 is a perspective view of the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application in a state in which the injection unit and the needle unit are coupled to each other, and the lifting unit is installed below the injection unit, Figure 3 is a perspective view of the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application in a state in which the injection unit and the needle unit are coupled to each other, and the lifting unit is installed below the injection unit, Figure 6 is a perspective view of the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application in a state in which the injection unit and the needle unit are coupled to each other, and the lifting unit is installed below the injection unit, Figure 5 is a perspective view of the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application in a state in which the injection unit and the needle unit are coupled to each other, and the lifting unit is installed below the injection unit.

[0069] In addition, Figure 7 is a perspective view of the tray unit of the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application in a state in which the injection unit and the needle unit are coupled to each other, and the lifting unit is installed below the injection unit, Figure 8 is a perspective view of the tray unit of the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application in a state in which the injection unit and the needle unit are coupled to each other, and the lifting unit is installed below the injection unit, Figure 7 is a perspective view of the tray unit of the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application in a state in which the injection unit and the needle unit are coupled to each other, and the lifting unit is installed below the injection unit.

[0070] In addition, Figure 9 is a perspective view of the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application in a state in which the injection unit and the needle unit are coupled to each other, and the lifting unit is installed below the injection unit, Figure 10 is a perspective view of the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application in a state in which the injection unit and the needle unit are coupled to each other, and the lifting unit is installed below the injection unit, Figure 9 is a perspective view of the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application in a state in which the injection unit and the needle unit are coupled to each other, and the lifting unit is installed below the injection unit, Figure 11 is a perspective view of the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application in a state in which the injection unit and the needle unit are coupled to each other, and the lifting unit is installed below the injection unit, Figure 9 is a perspective view of the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application in a state in which the injection unit and the needle unit are coupled to each other, and the lifting unit is installed below the injection unit,

[0071] In addition, Figure 12is a perspective view showing a state in which an injection unit constituting the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present invention is placed on a lifting unit, Figure 13 It shows Figure 12 A front view showing a state in which the injection unit is placed on the lifting unit.

[0072] The electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present invention may include a frame unit 100 , a tray unit 200 , an injection unit 300 , and a needle unit 400 , and may further include a lifting unit 500 as needed.

[0073] First, the frame unit 100 is configured to support the tray unit 200 , the injection unit 300 , and the needle unit 400 , and may include a lower plate 110 , an upper plate 120 , side plates 130 , and a vertical frame 140 .

[0074] The lower plate 110 is configured to selectively support the tray unit 200 or the lifting unit 500 .

[0075] The upper plate 120 is located above the lower plate 110 and has an opening at its center so that an upper hopper 330 constituting the injection unit 300 can protrude upward, and the injection unit 300 is detachably attached to the upper plate 120 .

[0076] For example, the upper plate 120 and the injection unit 300 may be fixed to each other by using male and female threaded fasteners such as bolts and nuts; however, the present invention is not necessarily limited thereto.

[0077] The side panels 130 extend downward along the edges of the upper panel 120 to form a closed space, and the vertical frame 140 is connected to the needle unit 400 located above the upper panel 120. Of course, the needle unit 400 is also preferably detachably attached to the frame unit 100.

[0078] Although not shown in the drawings, a support frame (not shown) configured to space the side panels 130 apart from the ground by a predetermined height may be connected to the side panels, and a shape of the support frame (not shown) is not particularly limited.

[0079] exist Figures 3 to 6 In the embodiment, the lower portion of the lifting unit 500 is placed on the upper surface of the lower plate 110 which is approximately quadrilateral, and the upper portion of the lifting unit 500 is in close contact with the lower surface of the injection unit 300. When the electrolyte is injected into the secondary battery, Figure 7 and Figure 8 The tray unit 200 of the structure shown in FIG is in close contact with the upper surface of the lower plate 110 and the lower surface of the injection unit 300 .

[0080] In other words, when the electrolyte is injected into the secondary battery, the tray unit 200 including the lower tray 220 which accommodates the secondary battery B is in close contact with the lower surface of the injection unit 300, so that the electrolyte can be supplied to the secondary battery B.

[0081] At this time, the tray unit 200 is seated on the upper surface of the lower plate 110, and the lower plate 110 is moved upward and downward by a separate lifting member (not shown).

[0082] Therefore, the position of the tray unit 200 is changed by the upward and downward movement of the lower plate 110 before or after the electrolyte is injected.

[0083] Meanwhile, since the electrolyte is repeatedly injected for a long time, maintenance such as inspection and replacement of parts is required.

[0084] As shown in Figures 9 to 12 When the parts constituting the injection unit 300 need to be inspected, replaced, or repaired, the lifting unit 500 is seated on the upper surface of the lower plate 110 to support the injection unit 300 so that the injection unit 300 can be moved downward. Detailed descriptions of the injection unit 300 and the lifting unit 500 will be described later.

[0085] Referring back to Figure 7 and Figure 8 , the tray unit 200 can include an upper tray 210 and a lower tray 220 which are detachable from each other and are configured such that a vertical distance between the upper tray and the lower tray is adjustable.

[0086] The upper tray 210 is provided with a plurality of first through holes 211, and a substantially cylindrical lower hopper 212 having an open top, an open bottom, and a hollow interior is accommodated in each first through hole 211.

[0087] The lower hopper 212 is configured to guide the electrolyte supplied from the injection unit 300 to the secondary battery B.

[0088] The lower tray 220 has a plurality of receiving recesses 221 in each of which the secondary battery B which needs to be injected with the electrolyte is accommodated.

[0089] Here, the upper end of the secondary battery B is open to allow the electrolyte to be introduced therein, and preferably, the secondary batteries are provided in the same number as the lower hoppers 212 and are located on the same vertical extension line as the lower hoppers 212.

[0090] Referring back to Figures 3 to 6 andFigures 9 to 11 The needle unit 400 is located above the injection unit 300 and is configured to supply the electrolyte to the injection unit 300. Specifically, the needle unit 400 includes a plate-shaped second holder 410 having a plurality of third through holes 411 and a needle 420 configured to supply the electrolyte to the upper hopper 330 and to restrict or allow the electrolyte supplied to the upper hopper 330 to be supplied to the lower hopper 212, which will be described in detail below.

[0091] Meanwhile, the secondary battery B is a cylindrical secondary battery or a prismatic secondary battery before the cap assembly is mounted. Generally, the cylindrical secondary battery is manufactured in such a manner that a jelly-roll electrode assembly in which a long sheet-type positive electrode and a long sheet-type negative electrode are wound with a separator interposed therebetween is accommodated in a battery case, an electrolyte is injected into the battery case, and a cap assembly is mounted and fixed to the battery case.

[0092] In the present application, the secondary battery B is in a state in which an electrode assembly is accommodated in a battery case and a top of the battery case is open. The electrode assembly corresponds to a known technical configuration, and thus a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0093] Figure 14 is a perspective view of an injection unit constituting an electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application, Figure 15 is Figure 14 a front view of the injection unit of FIG. 1. In addition, Figure 16 is Figure 15 an enlarged sectional view of a portion "A" of FIG. 1, Figure 17 is Figure 15 an exploded perspective view of the portion "A" of FIG. 1, and Figure 18 is a sectional view illustrating a process of disassembling components constituting an injection unit in an electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application.

[0094] The injection unit 300 is located above the tray unit 200 and is configured to supply the electrolyte to the lower hopper 212, and can include a first holder 310, a socket portion 320, an upper hopper 330, a nozzle portion 340, a sealing member 350, and a first handle 360.

[0095] First, the first holder 310 is generally flat and is provided with a plurality of second through holes 311.

[0096] The socket portion 320 is mounted in each of the second through holes 311 and is configured to fix the upper hopper 330, the nozzle portion 340, and the sealing member 350.

[0097] Referring toFigures 16 to 18 More specifically, the spout portion 320 is open at the top and the bottom and is surrounded by a side wall 321 to have a space portion therein, and has a circular horizontal cross section.

[0098] Here, the internal space portion of the spout portion 320 can include a first space portion S1 located upper, a second space portion S2 located lower than the first space portion S1, a third space portion S3 located lower than the second space portion S2, and a fourth space portion S4 located lower than the third space portion S3. In this case, the inner diameters of the first space portion S1, the second space portion S2, the third space portion S3, and the fourth space portion S4 decrease in the order of the first space portion S1, the second space portion S2, the fourth space portion S4, and the third space portion S3.

[0099] Further, a first step portion 322, a second step portion 323, and a third step portion 324 are respectively provided at the boundary between the first space portion S1 and the second space portion S2, at the boundary between the second space portion S2 and the third space portion S3, and at the boundary between the third space portion S3 and the fourth space portion S4, so that the inner diameters of the first space portion S1, the second space portion S2, the third space portion S3, and the fourth space portion S4 are different from each other.

[0100] Accordingly, the upper hopper 330 extends upward in a state in which the lower side of the upper hopper 330 is coupled to the first space portion S1 of the spout portion 320, and the nozzle portion 340 extends downward in a state in which the upper side of the nozzle portion 340 is coupled to the third space portion S3 and the fourth space portion S4 of the spout portion 320. The sealing member 350 is interposed between the lower side of the upper hopper 330 and the upper side of the nozzle portion 340, that is, the second space portion S2.

[0101] In a state in which the lower side of the upper hopper 330 is fixed to the spout portion 320, the upper hopper 330 extends upward by a predetermined length, and temporarily accommodates the electrolyte supplied from the needle unit 400, and is substantially cylindrical having an open top and an open bottom.

[0102] In a state in which the upper side of the nozzle portion 340 is fixed to the spout portion 320, the nozzle portion 340 extends downward by a predetermined length, and is formed in a hollow pipe shape having an open top and an open bottom, and is located in the lower hopper 212 during injection of the electrolyte.

[0103] Here, preferably, one or more slits 341 are provided in the side surface of the nozzle portion 340, and preferably, the one or more slits 341 are formed in a spiral shape along the side surface of the nozzle portion.

[0104] The electrolyte supplied to the secondary battery accommodated in the lower tray must be injected in a constant amount all the time. If the supplied electrolyte scatters and adheres to the inner wall of the lower hopper or leaks out, the injection amount of the electrolyte can be deviated, which can cause a defect.

[0105] For example, in addition to a certain amount of electrolyte, there is air above the electrolyte in the upper hopper 330. However, since the supply process of the electrolyte is performed under a reduced pressure condition, when the electrolyte filling the upper hopper 330 moves to the lower hopper, air is sucked into the lower hopper.

[0106] The air collides with the electrolyte in the lower hopper, causing the electrolyte to scatter and adhere to the inner wall of the lower hopper. Therefore, the amount of electrolyte injected into the secondary battery can be insufficient, or, on the contrary, the amount of electrolyte injected into some secondary batteries can increase due to the electrolyte that has adhered to the inner wall.

[0107] However, when one or more slits 341 are provided in the side surface of the nozzle portion 340, the air sucked into the lower hopper after the electrolyte is transferred to the lower hopper is dispersed through the lower opening of the nozzle portion 340 and the slits 341 in the side surface thereof, whereby scattering of the electrolyte can be minimized.

[0108] Meanwhile, preferably, at least one of the socket portion 320, the upper hopper 330, and the nozzle portion 340 is detachable, and more preferably, all of them are detachable.

[0109] As described above, the electrolyte injection device requires maintenance, inspection, or replacement of parts during its use.

[0110] Therefore, if the inner surface of the second through-hole 311 is provided with a female thread, and the outer surface of the side wall 321 of the socket portion 320 is provided with a male thread, the socket portion 320 is easily detached.

[0111] Further, if the inner surface of the side wall 321 corresponding to the first space portion S1 of the socket portion 320 is provided with a female thread, and the outer surface of the lower side of the upper hopper 330 is provided with a male thread, the upper hopper 330 is easily detached.

[0112] Further, if the inner surface of the side wall 321 corresponding to the third space portion S3 of the socket portion 320 is provided with a female screw, and the outer surface of the upper side of the nozzle portion 340 is provided with a male screw, the nozzle portion 340 is easily detached. Of course, the fourth space portion S4 of the socket portion 320 can also be provided with a female screw, in which case the nozzle portion 340 is also provided with a male screw.

[0113] Meanwhile, the inner surface of the side wall 321 corresponding to the second space portion S2 of the socket portion 320 can not be provided with a female screw. This is because the sealing member 350 made of an elastic material is located in the second space portion S2, and the sealing member 350 can be replaced by detaching the upper hopper 330.

[0114] More specifically, regarding the detachment order of the socket portion 320, the upper hopper 330, the nozzle portion 340, and the sealing member 350, the nozzle portion 340 coupled to the socket portion 320 by the male fastener and the female fastener can be detached downward (a). Figure 18 (a). When the socket portion 320 coupled to the first holder 310 by the male fastener and the female fastener is detached downward, the upper hopper 330 can also be detached (b). Figure 18 (b). Further, the upper hopper 330 and the sealing member 350 can be sequentially detached from the socket portion 320 (c). Figure 18 (c).

[0115] Of course, the detachment order is not limited to the order shown. For example, the upper hopper 330 can be detached before the nozzle portion 340 is detached, or both can be simultaneously detached. Figure 18

[0116] Meanwhile, reference numeral 360 denotes a first handle 360, and preferably one or more first handles are provided at the edges of the first holder 310, and a worker can grip the first handle 360 to transfer the injection unit 300.

[0117] Figure 19 is a perspective view showing a state before coupling between an injection unit and a tray unit in an electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application, Figure 20 is a front view showing Figure 19 the injection unit and the tray unit shown in FIG. 1 are coupled to each other, and Figure 21 is a front view showing a state in which the liquid injection unit and the tray unit are coupled to each other in the electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application.

[0118] Further, Figure 22 ​is a perspective view of a needle mounted to an electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application, Figure 23 is a sectional view showing a structure in which an injection unit and a needle unit are coupled to each other in an electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application, and Figure 24 is an enlarged view of a sealing member constituting an injection unit in an electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application.

[0119] In order to inject electrolyte into a secondary battery, the secondary battery B must be accommodated in the lower tray 220, so the tray unit 200 and the injection unit 300 must be separated from each other by a certain distance, and the separated state is maintained even after the secondary battery B is accommodated in the lower tray 220 (see Figure 19 and Figure 20 ).

[0120] When electrolyte is injected into the secondary battery B, the first holder 310 and the lower hopper 212 come into contact with the secondary battery B, and at this time, the nozzle portion 340 is located in the lower hopper 212 (see Figure 21 ).

[0121] The needle 420 is mounted to the second holder 410 so as to be upwardly and downwardly movable, the needle 420 including a first body portion 421, a second body portion 422 located below the first body portion 421, and a tip portion 423 located below the second body portion 422 (see Figure 22 and Figure 23 ).

[0122] The first body portion 421 is hollow, the top thereof being open to allow electrolyte to be introduced thereinto, and one or more electrolyte outflow holes 421a are formed in the side surface thereof. Of course, an injection pipe (not shown) can be connected to the open top of the first body portion 421 so that electrolyte can be externally supplied to the first body portion 421.

[0123] The upper side of the second body portion 422 is connected to the first body portion 421, and the lower side of the second body portion is connected to the tip portion 423.

[0124] Meanwhile, preferably, the outer diameters of the first body portion 421, the second body portion 422, and the tip portion 423 gradually decrease in the order of the first body portion 421, the second body portion 422, and the tip portion 423, which prevents backflow of introduced electrolyte.

[0125] The sealing member 350 is positioned in the spout portion 320 and is disposed between the upper hopper 330 and the nozzle portion 340. More specifically, the sealing member 350 is configured to increase adhesion between the second stepped portion of the spout portion and the upper hopper, thereby preventing leakage of the electrolyte and ensuring movement of the electrolyte, wherein the sealing member is substantially cylindrical, wherein a center of the sealing member is formed with an electrolyte passage 351 configured to allow the electrolyte to pass therethrough (see FIG. 4). Figure 24 ).

[0126] Preferably, at least one protrusion is formed on each of the upper and lower surfaces of the sealing member 350. For example, a first protrusion 352 in the shape of a circular ring can be provided on the upper surface of the sealing member 350, more specifically along an upper edge of the electrolyte passage 351, and the sealing member can be in close contact with the second body portion of the needle via the first protrusion 352.

[0127] Further, a second protrusion 353 in the shape of a circular ring can be provided at a predetermined distance apart from the first protrusion 352, and adhesion to the upper hopper can be increased by the second protrusion 353.

[0128] Further, a third protrusion 354 can be provided on the lower surface of the sealing member 350, more specifically along a lower edge of the electrolyte passage 351, and a fourth protrusion 355 in the shape of a circular ring can be provided at a predetermined distance apart from the third protrusion 354, wherein adhesion to the second stepped portion of the spout portion can be increased by the third and fourth protrusions 354 and 355.

[0129] Here, the sealing member 350 is preferably made of a material having elasticity and not reacting with the electrolyte. For example, the sealing member can be made of ethylene propylene diene rubber (EPDM), but the material of the sealing member is not limited thereto as long as the same function and purpose can be achieved.

[0130] Figure 25 is a perspective view of a lifting unit constituting an electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery according to the present application when viewed in one direction, Figure 26 is a perspective view of the lifting unit when viewed in another direction, Figure 25 is a perspective view of the lifting unit shown in FIG. 3.

[0131] Reference will be made to Figure 12 , Figure 13 , Figure 25 and Figure 26A lifting unit 500 is described. The lifting unit 500 is configured to support the injection unit 300 when the injection unit 300 is removed. Since most parts are made of metal, the injection unit 300 is heavy, so an accident can occur during work or it can take a lot of time to repair or replace parts.

[0132] However, in the present invention, a lifting unit 500 capable of supporting the injection unit 300 is provided, thereby improving work efficiency and helping to prevent accidents.

[0133] Specifically, the lifting unit 500 can include a plate-shaped base 510, a support 520, a lifting 530, and a second handle 540.

[0134] The support 520 is located above the base 510, is movable upward and downward, and includes a substantially rectangular first plate 521 and a plurality of second plates 522 extending upward from the vicinity of the edges of the first plate 521 by a predetermined height.

[0135] Here, preferably, two or more second plates 522 are positioned to face each other to stably support the first holder 310, and more preferably, the height of the second plate 522 is set such that, when the first holder 310 is seated on the upper end of the second plate, the nozzle portion does not collide with the first plate 521.

[0136] Meanwhile, preferably, a single cutout portion 521a is formed at the edge of the first plate 521 so that the injection unit 300 can be easily gripped.

[0137] The lifting 530 configured to move the support 520 upward and downward can include a lifting rod 531, a connecting rod 532, a screw rod 533, a manipulation portion 534, and a guide rod 535.

[0138] The lifting rod 531 is located between the base 510 and the support 520, and can include a first lifting rod 531a and a second lifting rod 531b connected to each other while crossing each other in a hinge structure.

[0139] Specifically, one end of the first lifting rod 531a is connected to one side of the connecting rod 532, and the other end of the first lifting rod is in close contact with the lower surface of the first plate 521. In addition, one end of the second lifting rod 531b is connected to the base 510, and the other end of the second lifting rod 531b is provided to be in close contact with the lower surface of the first plate 521.

[0140] Although in the above-described embodiment, the lifting unit 500 is configured to support the injection unit 300, the present invention is not limited thereto. Figure 25 and Figure 26In the middle, one lifting rod 531 is shown to be provided at each of opposite side edges of the base 510, but can be changed.

[0141] The connecting rod 532 is provided in a direction crossing the pair of lifting rods 531 and has a length, one end of the first lifting rod 531a being fastened to both sides of the connecting rod.

[0142] The screw rod 533 is provided to cross the connecting rod 532 to guide forward and backward movement of the connecting rod 532, and is fastened to the connecting rod 532 at a manipulation portion 534 of the screw rod 533 by a threaded fastener.

[0143] Therefore, when the manipulation portion 534 is rotated in a forward direction or a backward direction, the connecting rod 532 is moved forward or backward, whereby a crossing angle between the first lifting rod 531a and the second lifting rod 531b is changed, thereby allowing upward and downward movement of the support portion 520.

[0144] Meanwhile, a guide rod 535 provided in parallel to the screw rod 533 is configured to reliably prevent the connecting rod 532 from being twisted during its forward or backward movement. Preferably, a portion of the guide rod 535 is cut in order to accommodate the connecting rod 532.

[0145] Reference numeral 540 indicates a second handle 540 that can be gripped by hand in order to facilitate carrying of the lifting unit 500, and can be provided on the base 510.

[0146] Although specific details of the present application have been described in detail, those skilled in the art will understand that the detailed description of the present application discloses only preferred embodiments of the present application, and thus does not limit the scope of the present application. Therefore, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes and modifications are possible without departing from the category and technical idea of the present application, and it is obvious that such changes and modifications fall within the scope of the appended claims.

[0147] (Description of Reference Numerals)

[0148] 100: frame unit

[0149] 110: lower plate 120: upper plate

[0150] 130: side plate 140: vertical frame

[0151] 200: tray unit

[0152] 210: upper tray

[0153] 211: first through-hole 212: lower hopper

[0154] 220: lower tray 221: receiving recess

[0155] 300: injection unit

[0156] 310: first holder 311: second through-hole

[0157] 320: spigot portion

[0158] 321: side wall 322: first step portion

[0159] 323: second step portion 324: third step portion

[0160] 330: upper hopper

[0161] 340: nozzle portion 341: slit

[0162] 350: sealing member

[0163] 351: electrolyte passage 352: first protrusion

[0164] 353: second protrusion 354: third protrusion

[0165] 355: fourth protrusion

[0166] 360: first handle

[0167] 400: needle unit

[0168] 410: second holder 411: third through-hole

[0169] 420: needle

[0170] 421: first body portion 421a: electrolyte outflow hole

[0171] 422: second body portion 423: tip portion

[0172] 500: lifting unit

[0173] 510: base portion

[0174] 520: support portion

[0175] 521: first plate 521a: cutout portion

[0176] 522: second plate

[0177] 530: lifting portion

[0178] 531: lifting rod

[0179] 531a: first lifting rod 531b: second lifting rod

[0180] 532: connecting rod

[0181] 533: screw 534: handle portion

[0182] 535: guide rod

[0183] 540: second handle

[0184] S1: first space portion S2: second space portion

[0185] S3: third space portion S4: fourth space portion

[0186] B: secondary battery

Claims

1. An electrolyte injection device for a secondary battery, the electrolyte injection device comprising: a frame unit including a lower plate and an upper plate spaced apart from the lower plate by a predetermined distance, a central opening of the upper plate; a tray unit detachably located above the lower plate, the tray unit being provided with a lower hopper into which a secondary battery and an electrolyte are supplied; an injection unit located above the tray unit, the injection unit being configured to supply the electrolyte to the lower hopper; and a needle unit located above the upper plate, the needle unit being configured to supply the electrolyte to the injection unit; wherein the injection unit and the needle unit are separable from the upper plate. the injection unit includes:

2. The electrolyte injection device according to claim 1, wherein a first holder in the shape of a plate having a second through-hole; a socket portion accommodated in the second through-hole; an upper hopper extending upward from the first holder in a state in which a lower side thereof is fastened to the socket portion; and a nozzle portion extending downward from the first holder in a state in which an upper side thereof is fastened to the socket portion, and the needle unit includes a second holder in the shape of a plate having a third through-hole, and a needle accommodated in the second holder. the first holder and the upper plate are detachably connected to each other by a male threaded fastener and a female threaded fastener.

3. The electrolyte injection apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the socket portion is fixed to the second through-hole by a male threaded fastener and a female threaded fastener.

4. The electrolyte injection apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the upper hopper is fixed to the socket portion by a male threaded fastener and a female threaded fastener.

5. The electrolyte injection apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the nozzle portion is fixed to the socket portion by a male threaded fastener and a female threaded fastener.

6. The electrolyte injection apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the injection unit further includes a sealing member accommodated in the socket portion, the sealing member being interposed between the upper hopper and the nozzle portion.

7. The electrolyte injection apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the injection unit further includes a first handle configured to allow the first holder to be gripped by the first handle.

8. The electrolyte injection apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the nozzle portion is formed in the shape of a hollow tube having an open top and an open bottom, and is provided with one or more slits in a side surface thereof.

9. The electrolyte injection apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the one or more slits are formed in a spiral shape along the side surface of the nozzle portion.

10. The electrolyte injection apparatus according to claim 9, wherein 11.The electrolyte injection device of claim 2, further comprising a lifting unit configured to move the injection unit upward and downward while supporting the injection unit. the lifting unit includes a base, a support portion configured to support a lower surface of the first holder, and a lifting portion configured to move the support portion upward and downward.

12. The electrolyte injection device of claim 11, wherein, the lifting portion includes:

13. The electrolyte injection device of claim 12, wherein, a lifting rod located between the base and the support portion, the lifting rod including a first lifting rod and a second lifting rod connected to each other in a hinge structure while crossing each other; a connecting rod fastened to one end of the first lifting rod; a screw rod having a predetermined extension length, the screw rod being configured to guide forward and backward movement of the connecting rod; and a a manipulation portion configured to move the connection rod forward or backward.

14. The electrolyte injection apparatus according to claim 13, wherein The lifting portion further includes a guide rod configured to guide the connection rod forward or backward.

15. The electrolyte injection apparatus according to claim 13, wherein The lifting unit further includes a second handle configured to allow the base to be gripped by the second handle.

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