Crimping device for battery cells

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a crimping apparatus for a battery cell. The technical purpose to be achieved is to provide a crimping apparatus for a battery cell capable of improving the formation quality of a battery cell. The crimping apparatus for a battery cell of the present disclosure comprises: a lower jig configured to be disposed around a periphery of a battery can; a first upper jig configured to descend above the battery can to come into contact with the lower jig, and press and move the lower jig toward the battery can; and a second upper jig disposed inside the first upper jig and configured to descend together with the first upper jig and press an end portion of the battery can downward to bend the end portion toward a cover assembly of the battery cell. According to the present invention, a crimping process can be reliably performed by performing a simple process of arranging a battery cell as a semi-finished product inside a lower jig, lowering both a first upper jig and a second upper jig, supporting a periphery of a battery can using the lower jig, and pressing and sealing an end portion of the battery can toward a cap assembly using the second upper jig.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] An aspect of the embodiments of this disclosure relates to a crimping device for crimping battery cells. Background Technology

[0002] Generally speaking, unlike primary batteries which cannot be recharged, secondary batteries can be charged and discharged. Low-capacity secondary batteries are used in small portable electronic devices (such as smartphones, feature phones, laptops, digital cameras, and camcorders), while high-capacity secondary batteries are widely used as power sources for motors in hybrid vehicles, electric vehicles, etc., and as batteries for energy storage. Such secondary batteries include electrode assemblies, a housing for the electrode assemblies, and electrode terminals connected to the electrode assemblies, which include a positive electrode and a negative electrode.

[0003] Secondary batteries can be used as battery packs formed by multiple battery cells connected in series and / or parallel to provide high energy density. Battery packs can be formed by connecting the electrode terminals of multiple battery cells to meet the required power, for example, to realize high-power secondary batteries for electric vehicles.

[0004] A single battery cell may include an electrode assembly, a battery can, and a cover assembly. The electrode assembly may be housed within the battery can, and the cover assembly may be attached to an opening in the battery can. A crimping process for sealing the battery cell can be performed by bending the end portion of the battery can and bringing it into tight contact with the cover assembly.

[0005] The information disclosed above in the art that forms the background of this disclosure is intended only to enhance the understanding of the background of this disclosure, and therefore may include information that does not constitute related art. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The embodiments of this disclosure are intended to provide a crimping device for battery cells that can improve the formation quality of battery cells.

[0007] These and other aspects and features of this disclosure will be described in or from the following description of some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0008] A crimping device for a battery cell according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure for achieving the above-described technical objectives includes: a lower clamp configured to be disposed around the periphery of a battery can; a first upper clamp configured to descend above the battery can to contact the lower clamp and to press and move the lower clamp toward the battery can; and a second upper clamp disposed inside the first upper clamp and configured to descend together with the first upper clamp and to press down on an end portion of the battery can to bend the end portion toward a cover assembly of the battery cell.

[0009] The lower clamp may include a assembly clamp that is divided into multiple pieces along the periphery of the battery can and moves toward the battery can in coordination with the descent of the first upper clamp.

[0010] The lower clamp may include: a lower clamp body having a first inner diameter that allows the second upper clamp to be inserted into the lower clamp body and configured to surround the periphery of the battery can; an upper clamp contact surface formed on the outer peripheral portion of the lower clamp body and contacting the first upper clamp as the first upper clamp descends; and a can retaining portion formed to protrude from the inner peripheral portion of the lower clamp body and configured to contact the battery can when the first upper clamp descends.

[0011] The upper clamp contact surface may include: an inclined surface formed on the outer peripheral portion of the lower clamp body to be inclined outward and to contact the first upper clamp as the first upper clamp descends; and a vertically extending surface formed below the inclined surface to extend vertically and to contact the first upper clamp as the first upper clamp descends.

[0012] The inclined surface may include: a first inclined surface formed on the upper portion of the lower clamp body, and contact beginning on the first inclined surface when the first upper clamp descends; and a second inclined surface having an outer diameter larger than that of the first inclined surface, continuously formed at the bottom of the first inclined surface, and having an inclined angle for guiding the first upper clamp toward the vertically extending surface.

[0013] The inclined surface can be formed at a first inclination angle, such that when the first upper clamp descends a first vertical distance while in contact with the inclined surface, the lower clamp moves a first horizontal distance toward the battery can.

[0014] The vertically extending surface may include: a first extending surface continuously formed at the bottom of the inclined surface, wherein the descending first upper clamp continuously contacts the first extending surface after passing the inclined surface; and a second extending surface continuously formed at the bottom of the first extending surface and in contact with the first upper clamp that has passed the first extending surface.

[0015] The can fixing portion may include: a can support portion having an inner diameter smaller than the first inner diameter and configured to contact the periphery of the battery can; and a compression insertion portion formed to protrude from the inner peripheral portion of the can support portion for insertion into the compression portion of the battery can.

[0016] The can support portion may include: a first can support portion having a second inner diameter smaller than the first inner diameter and configured to contact the periphery of the battery can below the compression insertion portion; and a second can support portion configured to contact the periphery of the battery can above the compression insertion portion and having a third inner diameter smaller than the first inner diameter.

[0017] The lower clamp body may have a first thickness in the horizontal direction; the first tank support portion and the lower clamp body may together have a second thickness in the horizontal direction that is greater than the first thickness; and the second tank support portion and the lower clamp body may together have a third thickness in the horizontal direction that is greater than the first thickness.

[0018] The third inner diameter can be larger than the second inner diameter, so that when the first can support portion contacts the battery can, a gap is formed between the second can support portion and the battery can.

[0019] The compression insert and the vertical extension surface can be located on the same horizontal line, such that the force of the first upper clamp pressing the vertical extension surface in the horizontal direction is applied toward the contact portion between the compression insert and the compression insert.

[0020] The compression insertion portion and the upper portion of the vertical extension surface can be located on the same horizontal line.

[0021] The vertical extending surface may include: a first extending surface formed below the inclined surface, configured to horizontally contact the descending first upper clamp and located on the same horizontal line as the pressing insertion portion; and a second extending surface formed below the first extending surface to have the same vertical length as the first extending surface and configured to horizontally contact the lower portion of the first upper clamp that has passed the first extending surface.

[0022] When the second extended surface contacts the first portion of the first upper clamp, the first extended surface may contact the second portion located above the first portion.

[0023] The lower clamp may further include an extension formed to extend radially below the contact surface of the upper clamp and to contact the guide unit to guide radial movement of the lower clamp.

[0024] The first upper clamp may include: a first upper clamp body, mounted to move toward the lower clamp; a clamp pressing surface, formed on the inner periphery of the first upper clamp body, which contacts the lower clamp and presses the lower clamp toward the battery canister during descent; an upper clamp connecting portion, formed at the upper portion of the first upper clamp body, to which the second upper clamp is fixed; and an insertion space, formed between the clamp pressing surface and the second upper clamp facing each other to open downward, into which the lower clamp is inserted when the first upper clamp body descends.

[0025] The clamping extrusion surface may include: an inclined extrusion surface formed at an inclination on the lower portion of the inner circumferential portion of the first upper clamping body, and when the first upper clamping body descends, the inclined extrusion surface contacts the inclined surface formed on the lower clamping body and extrudes and moves the lower clamping body toward the battery can; and a horizontal extrusion surface formed on the inclined extrusion surface extending vertically and configured to contact the vertically extending surface formed on the lower clamping body in the horizontal direction.

[0026] The second upper clamp may include: a second upper clamp body fixed inside the first upper clamp; a seat surface formed at the lower end of the second upper clamp body, configured to contact the upper surface of the can fixing portion formed on the lower clamp, and having the same inner diameter as the can fixing portion; a downward pressing surface formed inside the seat surface to be recessed upward and to press the upper portion of the battery can protruding upward from the can fixing portion toward the cover assembly; and an arcuate surface formed between the seat surface and the downward pressing surface to be arcuate, and configured to contact the upper portion of the battery can to bend or tilt toward the downward pressing surface.

[0027] The crimping apparatus for battery cells according to this disclosure may further include a guiding unit that guides the movement of the lower clamp toward the battery can.

[0028] The guiding unit may include: a first housing on which the lower clamp is disposed; a second housing disposed on the first housing, with the lower clamp located between the first housing and the second housing, and a guiding surface formed between the second housing and the first housing, the guiding surface guiding the movement of the lower clamp; and a clamp return device for returning the lower clamp, which has moved toward the battery canister, to its initial position.

[0029] The first housing may include: a first housing body having a disc shape with a hole formed in a central portion of the disc; and a first guide groove formed to be recessed in an upper portion of the first housing body, the lower clamp passing through the first guide groove, and the first guide groove contacting the lower clamp to guide radial movement of the lower clamp.

[0030] The second housing may include: a second housing body having a cylindrical shape that allows the first upper clamp to be inserted into the second housing body; a descent guide surface formed on an inner peripheral portion of the second housing body and contacting an outer surface of the first upper clamp to guide the descent of the first upper clamp; and a second guide groove formed to extend radially in a lower portion of the second housing body, through which the lower clamp passes and contacts the lower clamp to guide radial movement of the lower clamp.

[0031] The clamp return device may include: a spring block, connected to the lower clamp on the radially outer side of the second housing and configured to move with the lower clamp; and an elastic member disposed between the second housing and the spring block, and the elastic member being elastically compressed in coordination with the movement of the spring block when the lower clamp moves toward the battery canister. Attached Figure Description

[0032] The accompanying drawings illustrate some embodiments of this disclosure and further describe aspects and features of this disclosure together with the detailed description thereof. However, this disclosure should not be construed as limited to the drawings:

[0033] Figure 1 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the main parts of a crimping device for a battery cell according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 2 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating a lower clamp according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 3 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating a state in which a first assembly clamp, a second assembly clamp, and a third assembly clamp are spaced apart from each other according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] Figure 4 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating a second assembly fixture according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0037] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 A floor plan;

[0038] Figure 6 It is along Figure 5Cross-sectional view of centerline A-A';

[0039] Figure 7 This is an example Figure 6 Enlarged view of the main parts;

[0040] Figure 8 This is a conceptual diagram illustrating the contact structure between the lower clamp and the battery cell according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0041] Figure 9 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the main portion of the lower clamp according to at least another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0042] Figure 10 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the main portions of a first upper clamp and a second upper clamp according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0043] Figure 11 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the main portion of a first upper clamp according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0044] Figure 12 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the main portion of a second upper clamp according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0045] Figure 13 This is an example Figure 12 Enlarged view of the main parts;

[0046] Figure 14 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the main portion of the second upper clamp according to at least another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0047] Figure 15 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the main portion of a guide unit according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0048] Figure 16 This is an exploded schematic perspective view illustrating the main parts of a guide unit according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0049] Figure 17 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating key components (such as a lower clamp, a first housing, and a second housing) according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0050] Figure 18 This is an exploded schematic perspective view illustrating key components (such as the lower clamp, the first housing, and the second housing) according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0051] Figure 19 This is a schematic plan view illustrating a first housing according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0052] Figure 20 This is a schematic plan view illustrating a second housing according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0053] Figure 21 This is a schematic side view illustrating a spring block according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0054] Figure 22 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the main parts of a crimping device for a battery cell in an initial state according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0055] Figure 23 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the main portion of the first upper clamp in a state where it is moved downward and in contact with the inclined surface of the lower clamp, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0056] Figure 24 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the main portion of the first upper clamp in a state where, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first upper clamp has moved further downward, reached the lower end of the inclined surface of the lower clamp, and begun to contact the vertically extending surface; and

[0057] Figure 25 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the main portion of the first upper clamp in a state where it is further moved downward and in contact with the vertically extending surface, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0058] In this document, some embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The terms or words used in this specification and claims should not be construed as limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted as having meanings and concepts consistent with the technical spirit of the present disclosure, based on the principle that the inventor is capable of being his / her own lexicographer to appropriately define the concepts of the terms.

[0059] The embodiments described in this specification and the configurations shown in the accompanying drawings are provided only as some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure and do not represent all technical ideas, aspects, and features of this disclosure. Accordingly, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications that can replace or modify the embodiments described herein may exist at the time of filing this application.

[0060] It should be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," or "linked to" another element or layer, it can be directly on, connected to, or linked to the other element or layer, or one or more intermediary elements or layers may be present. When an element or layer is referred to as being "directly on," "directly connected to," or "directly linked to" another element or layer, no intermediary element or layer is present. For example, when a first element is described as being "linked" or "connected" to a second element, the first element can be directly linked to or connected to the second element, or the first element can be indirectly linked to or connected to the second element via one or more intermediary elements.

[0061] In the figures, the dimensions of various elements, layers, etc., may be enlarged for clarity of illustration. The same reference numerals indicate the same or similar elements. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Furthermore, the use of “may” in describing embodiments of this disclosure refers to “one or more embodiments of this disclosure.” Expressions such as “at least one of…” and “any one of…” modify the entire list of elements when following it, not individual elements in the list. When phrases such as “at least one of A, B, and C,” “at least one of A, B, or C,” “at least one selected from the group of A, B, and C,” or “at least one selected from A, B, and C” are used to indicate a list of elements A, B, and C, the phrase may refer to any and all suitable combinations or subsets of A, B, and C, such as A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A and B and C. As used herein, the term “use” may be considered synonymous with the term “utilize.” As used herein, the terms “substantially,” “approximately,” and similar terms are used as approximate terms rather than as terms of degree, and are intended to take into account the inherent variation of measured or calculated values ​​that would be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0062] It should be understood that although the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or segments, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or segments should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or segment from another element, component, region, layer, or segment. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments, the first element, component, region, layer, or segment discussed below may be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer, or segment.

[0063] For ease of description, this document uses spatial relative terms (such as "below," "below," "down," "above," "up," etc.) to describe the relationship between one element or feature and another element or feature as shown in the figure. It should be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to cover different orientations of the device in use or operation other than the orientation depicted in the figure. For example, if the device in the figure is flipped, an element described as "below" or "below" other elements or features would then be oriented as "above" or "upon" other elements or features. Therefore, the term "below" can encompass both above and below orientations. The device may be oriented in other ways (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0064] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments of this disclosure and is not intended to limit this disclosure. As used herein, the singular form “a” is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should be further understood that the terms “comprising” and / or “including” as used in this specification specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0065] Furthermore, any numerical ranges disclosed and / or enumerated herein are intended to include all subranges with the same numerical precision contained within the enumerated ranges. For example, the range “1.0 to 10.0” is intended to include all subranges between (and including) the enumerated minimum value of 1.0 and the enumerated maximum value of 10.0, i.e., a minimum value equal to or greater than 1.0 and a maximum value equal to or less than 10.0, such as 2.4 to 7.6. Any maximum numerical limit enumerated herein is intended to include all lower numerical limits contained therein, and any minimum numerical limit enumerated in this specification is intended to include all higher numerical limits contained therein. Accordingly, the applicant reserves the right to amend this specification, including the claims, to expressly enumerate any subranges contained within the ranges expressly enumerated herein.

[0066] Referring to two compared elements, features, etc., as “identical” can mean that they are “substantially identical.” Therefore, the phrase “substantially identical” can include cases where the deviation is considered low in the art (e.g., 5% or less). Additionally, when a parameter is said to be consistent in a given region, it may mean that it is consistent in terms of the mean.

[0067] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0068] When any element is said to be arranged (or located or positioned) "above (or below)" or "on (or below)" a component, it may mean that the element is placed in contact with the upper (or lower) surface of the component, and may also mean that another component may be located between the component and any element arranged (or located or positioned) on (or below) the component.

[0069] Furthermore, it should be understood that when an element is referred to as "connected," "linked," or "attached" to another element, these elements may be directly "connected," "linked," or "attached" to each other, or one or more intermediary elements may exist between them, through which the element may be "connected," "linked," or "attached" to the other element. Additionally, when a component is referred to as "electrically connected" to another component, the component may be directly electrically connected to the other component, or one or more intermediary elements may exist between them, allowing the component and the other component to be indirectly electrically connected to each other.

[0070] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise stated, when “A and / or B” is mentioned, it means A, B, or A and B. That is, “and / or” includes any one or all of the listed items. Unless otherwise indicated, when “C to D” is mentioned, it means C or more and D or fewer.

[0071] The terminology used in this specification is for describing embodiments of this disclosure and is not intended to limit this disclosure.

[0072] Figure 1 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the main parts of a crimping device for a battery cell according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0073] refer to Figure 1 According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a crimping device 1 for a battery cell 2 includes a lower clamp 10, a first upper clamp 20, and a second upper clamp 30.

[0074] The battery cell 2 may include an electrode assembly 3, a battery can 4, and a cover assembly 6. With the electrode assembly 3 housed within the battery can 4, the cover assembly 6 can be attached to the opening of the battery can 4. In one embodiment of this disclosure, the opening of the battery can 4 is located at the top of the battery cell 2.

[0075] The cover assembly 6 can be disposed above the rolled portion 5 recessed along the periphery of the battery can 4. The battery cell 2 can be sealed by bending the upper portion of the battery can 4 above the cover assembly 6 and bringing the upper portion into tight contact with the cover assembly 6. This disclosure relates to a crimping device configured to seal the battery cell 2 by bending the end portion of the battery can 4 toward the cover assembly 6.

[0076] The battery cell 2 can be used as a unit structure configured in a battery pack to store and supply electricity. Hereinafter, an example of the battery cell 2 as a cylindrical lithium-ion secondary battery will be described. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the battery cell 2 can be a lithium polymer battery or a prismatic battery.

[0077] In the accompanying drawings, the battery can 4 is illustrated as having a cylindrical shape, but this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the canister can have one of various shapes such as a prism shape and a bag shape. Additionally, the battery can 4 can be formed of metal (such as aluminum, aluminum alloy, or nickel-plated steel) or a laminated film or plastic constituting a bag.

[0078] In at least one embodiment of this disclosure, a cylindrical battery cell 2 is disclosed. "Moving from the outside of the battery can 4 toward the battery can 4" means "moving toward the inside of the battery cell 2 or the central axis of the battery cell 2". The inward direction of the battery cell 2, the direction of the central axis of the battery cell 2, and the direction toward the battery can 4 can refer to the same direction. In the following text, for ease of description, "towards the battery can 4", "towards the center of the battery can 4", and "inward direction of the battery can 4" are used interchangeably.

[0079] The lower clamp 10 is arranged around the periphery of the battery can 4. The lower clamp 10 moves toward the battery can 4 in coordination with the descent of the first upper clamp 20, contacts the periphery of the battery can 4, and holds the battery can 4.

[0080] The first upper clamp 20 descends from above the battery can 4 to contact the lower clamp 10. The first upper clamp 20 may be positioned above and spaced apart from the lower clamp 10, and moves downward to contact the lower clamp 10. As the first upper clamp 20 descends further while in contact with the lower clamp 10, the first upper clamp 20 presses against and moves the lower clamp 10 toward the battery can 4.

[0081] The second upper clamp 30 is disposed inside the first upper clamp 20 and descends together with the first upper clamp 30. The second upper clamp 30 may be disposed above and spaced apart from the battery can 4, and may descend to contact the upper portion of the battery can 3. As the second upper clamp 30 descends further while in contact with the upper portion of the battery can 4, the second upper clamp 30 bends the upper portion of the battery can 4 by pressing it downward toward the cover assembly 6.

[0082] Figure 2 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating a lower clamp according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 3 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating a state in which the first, second, and third assembly clamps are spaced apart from each other according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating a second assembly clamp according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 5 yes Figure 2 Floor plan.

[0083] refer to Figures 2 to 5 According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the lower clamp 10 may include a plurality of assembly clamps 10A, 10B, and 10C divided into multiple pieces along the periphery of the battery can 4. The assembly clamps 10A, 10B, and 10C may move closer to each other and toward the battery can 4 in coordination with the descent of the first upper clamp 20. The lower clamp 10 may include a first assembly clamp 10A, a second assembly clamp 10B, and a third assembly clamp 10C.

[0084] The first assembly clamp 10A (e.g., a portion thereof) may have an arcuate cross-sectional shape facing a portion of the battery can 4 in the circumferential direction. The second assembly clamp 10B (e.g., a portion thereof) may have an arcuate cross-sectional shape facing another portion of the battery can 4 in the circumferential direction. The third assembly clamp 10C (e.g., a portion thereof) may have an arcuate cross-sectional shape facing the remainder of the battery can 4 in the circumferential direction. The first assembly clamp 10A, the second assembly clamp 10B, and the third assembly clamp 10C (e.g., a portion thereof) may have the same arcuate cross-sectional shape in the circumferential direction. The assembly clamps 10A, 10B, and 10C (e.g., a portion thereof) may all have an arcuate cross-sectional shape with an angle of 120°.

[0085] Figure 6 It is along Figure 5 Cross-sectional view of centerline A-A' Figure 7 This is an example Figure 6 An enlarged view of the main parts, and Figure 8 This is a conceptual diagram illustrating the contact structure between the lower clamp and the battery cell according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0086] refer to Figures 6 to 8 According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the lower clamp 10 may include a lower clamp body 11, an upper clamp contact surface 12, and a can fixing portion 15. The first assembly clamp 10A may have a lower clamp body 11, an upper clamp contact surface 12, and a can fixing portion 15. Each of the second assembly clamp 10B and the third assembly clamp 10C may also have a lower clamp body 11, an upper clamp contact surface 12, and a can fixing portion 15.

[0087] The lower clamp body 11 may have a shape corresponding to a portion of a cylinder in the circumferential direction. The lower clamp body 11 may have a first inner diameter R1 that allows the second upper clamp 30 to be inserted into the lower clamp body 11, and may be arranged around the periphery of the battery can 4.

[0088] The upper clamp contact surface 12 may be the portion that contacts the first upper clamp 20, and may be formed on the outer periphery of the lower clamp body 11. The first upper clamp 20 may descend and contact the upper clamp contact surface 12. The first upper clamp 20 sequentially contacts the upper portion and the lower portion of the upper clamp contact surface 12. The movement state of the lower clamp 10 may change depending on the direction of contact between the upper clamp contact surface 12 and the first upper clamp 20.

[0089] refer to Figure 7 The upper clamp contact surface 12 may include an inclined surface 13 and a vertically extending surface 14.

[0090] The inclined surface 13 can be formed on the upper part of the lower clamp body 11 to be inclined outward. The inclined surface 13 can be formed continuously along the upper periphery of the outer peripheral portion of the lower clamp 10. "Formed to be inclined outward" means "having a downward tilt angle while traveling radially outward".

[0091] refer to Figure 7 The inclined surface 13 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first inclined surface 131 and a second inclined surface 132.

[0092] The first inclined surface 131 may be the portion that begins to contact the first upper clamp 20 as it descends, and may be formed at the upper end portion of the lower clamp body 11. The first inclined surface 131 may refer to the surface contact portion that initially contacts the inclined pressing surface 23 (described below) of the first upper clamp 20. The first upper clamp 20 may be configured such that the inclined pressing surface 23 is directly above the first inclined surface 131. The first inclined surface 131 may have an inclination angle for guiding the first upper clamp 20 toward the second inclined surface 132.

[0093] When the first upper clamp 20 descends, the inclined pressing surface 23 of the first upper clamp 20 can contact the first inclined surface 131, and can move sequentially along the first inclined surface 131 toward the second inclined surface 132 and along the second inclined surface 132 toward the vertically extending surface 14.

[0094] The second inclined surface 132 may have an outer diameter larger than that of the first inclined surface 131, and may be continuously formed at the bottom of the first inclined surface 131. The second inclined surface 132 may be formed at an inclined angle for guiding the first upper clamp 20 toward the vertically extending surface 14. The second inclined surface 132 may have the same or a different inclined angle as the first inclined surface 131. In one embodiment of this disclosure, an example is disclosed where the first inclined surface 131 and the second inclined surface 132 have the same first inclined angle θ.

[0095] The inclined surface 13 may have a first inclination angle θ. At least one of the first inclined surface 131 and the second inclined surface 132 may have a first inclination angle θ. When the inclined surface 13 is formed to have a first inclination angle θ and the first upper clamp 20 moves downward a first vertical distance DL1 (see...) while in contact with the inclined surface 13. Figure 24 When the lower clamp 10 moves towards the battery can 4, it can move a first horizontal distance DR1 (see...). Figure 24 ).

[0096] When the inclined surface 13 is formed with a first inclination angle θ, the lower clamp 10 can move towards the center of the battery can 4 in proportion to the downward displacement of the first upper clamp 20. Accordingly, the moving displacement and speed of the lower clamp 10 can be reliably adjusted by controlling the downward displacement and speed of the first upper clamp 20.

[0097] The vertically extending surface 14 may be formed at the bottom of the inclined surface 13 or below the inclined surface 13 to extend vertically. The vertically extending surface 14 may be continuously formed along the outer periphery of the lower clamp 10. The first upper clamp 20 may sequentially contact the inclined surface 13 and the vertically extending surface 14 while descending from directly above the lower clamp 10.

[0098] The vertically extending surface 14 can face horizontally against the inner circumferential portion of the descending first upper clamp 20. The vertically extending surface 14 can make horizontal contact with the inner circumferential portion of the first upper clamp 20 and can be pressed towards the center of the battery canister 4 by the first upper clamp 21.

[0099] As the first upper clamp 20 moves downward along the inclined surface 13, the lower clamp 10 can move towards the center of the battery can 4 and can make close contact with the periphery of the battery can 4. As the first upper clamp 20 moves downward along the vertically extending surface 14, the contact area between the lower clamp 10 and the first upper clamp 10 gradually increases, and the lower clamp 10 can more stably support the periphery of the battery can 4. As the first upper clamp 20 moves downward along the vertically extending surface 14, the lower clamp 10 may no longer move towards the center of the battery can 4.

[0100] The compression insertion portion 17 of the lower clamp 10 (described below) is the portion that is inserted into the compression portion 5 of the battery can 4. A supporting force that compresses the battery can 4 toward the center at the contact portion P between the compression insertion portion 17 and the compression portion 5 to limit the movement of the battery can 4 can initially be applied.

[0101] The vertically extending surface 14 and the coiling insertion portion 17 can be located on the same horizontal line H. When the vertically extending surface 14 and the coiling insertion portion 17 are located on the same horizontal line H, the force applied horizontally by the first upper clamp 20 to the vertically extending surface 15 can be reduced or prevented from acting as a torque (rotational force) on the contact portion P. In this case, the force applied horizontally by the first upper clamp 20 to the vertically extending surface 14 can be used as a force applied horizontally to the contact portion P located on the same horizontal line H. Accordingly, the battery canister 4 can be stably supported using the coiling insertion portion 17.

[0102] refer to Figure 7 The vertically extending surface 14 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first extending surface 141 and a second extending surface 142.

[0103] A first extending surface 141 may be continuously formed at the bottom of the inclined surface 13. The first extending surface 141 may be in horizontal contact with the descending first upper clamp 20. A second extending surface 142 may be formed at the bottom of the first extending surface 141 to have the same vertical length as the first extending surface 141. The second extending surface 142 may be in horizontal contact with the lower portion of the first upper clamp 20 passing through the first extending surface 141. The upper half of the vertical extending surface 14 may be referred to as the first extending surface 141, and the lower half of the vertical extending surface 14 may be referred to as the second extending surface 142.

[0104] The descending upper clamp 20 can pass over the inclined surface 13 and sequentially contact the first extension surface 141 and the second extension surface 142. A horizontal extrusion surface 24 (described below) formed on the first upper clamp 20 can contact the first extension surface 141. The horizontal extrusion surface 24 can descend further and can contact the first extension surface 141 and the second extension surface 142 simultaneously.

[0105] The horizontal pressing surface 24 of the first upper clamp 20 may include a first portion 25 (described below) located at its lower end and a second portion 26 (described below) located above the first portion 25. A first extending surface 141 may contact the first portion 25. The second portion 26 may contact the first extending surface 141 as the first portion 25 descends further and contacts the second extending surface 142. As the first upper clamp 20 descends while contacting the vertical extending surface 14, the contact area between the first upper clamp 21 and the vertical extending surface 14 may gradually increase.

[0106] As the first upper clamp 20 descends, the inclined surface 13 should be compressed by a stronger force to cause the lower clamp 10 to move laterally. As the first upper clamp 20 descends while in contact with the inclined surface 13, a gradually increasing pressure can be applied between the inclined surface 13 and the first upper clamp 20. This action can correspond to the amount of elastic deformation and elastic displacement of the elastic member 46 (described below) and can be proportional to the elastic modulus of the elastic member 46.

[0107] At the point when the first upper clamp 20 has passed the inclined surface 13 and begins to contact the first extended surface 141, pressure equal to or greater than the pressure acting on the lower end of the inclined surface 13 can be concentrated and applied to the first extended surface 141. Then, as the first upper clamp 20 descends further and the contact area between the vertical extended surface 14 and the first upper clamp 10 gradually increases, the horizontal pressure applied by the first upper clamp 21 can be reduced and simultaneously applied uniformly to the entire vertical extended surface 14.

[0108] The first extension surface 141 is the portion of the first upper clamp 20 that has passed the inclined surface 13 and begins to contact the vertical extension surface 14. The first extension surface 141 is the portion where the strongest horizontal compressive force is applied in a concentrated manner. The compression insertion portion 17 of the lower clamp 10 and the first extension surface 141 of the vertical extension surface 14 can be located on the same horizontal line H.

[0109] Since the compression insert 17 and the first extension surface 141 are located on the same horizontal line H, the force applied to the vertical extension surface 14 by the first upper clamp 20 can be further prevented from acting as a torque (rotational force) on the contact portion P. Since the compression insert 17 and the first extension surface 141 are located on the same horizontal line H, horizontal pressure can be applied more precisely to the contact portion P between the compression insert 17 and the compression portion 5.

[0110] With the first upper clamp 20 in contact with both the first extending surface 141 and the second extending surface 142, a pressing force is applied horizontally to the upper side, lower side, and the entire horizontal line H of the compression insertion portion 17 of the lower clamp 10. Correspondingly, the force applied by the first upper clamp 20 to the vertical extending surface 14 does not act as a torque on the contact portion P. With the first upper clamp 20 in contact with both the first extending surface 141 and the second extending surface 142, the can support portion 16 (described below) and the compression insertion portion 17 of the lower clamp 10 can maintain a stable and tight contact over the entire upper portion of the battery can 4.

[0111] The can retaining portion 15 is the part of the lower clamp 10 that contacts the battery can 4. The lower clamp body 11 may have a first inner diameter R1 that allows the second upper clamp 30 to be inserted therein. The can retaining portion 15 may be formed on the inner circumferential portion of the lower clamp body 11 to protrude toward the center of the battery can 4. The can retaining portion 15 may have an inner diameter smaller than the first inner diameter R1.

[0112] refer to Figures 5 to 7 According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the can fixing part 15 may include a can support part 16 and a compression insertion part 17.

[0113] The can support portion 16 may be a portion that contacts the upper periphery of the battery can 4 above and below the coiled portion 5. The upper portion of the battery can 4 may have a constant diameter, and the can support portion 16 may have a set inner diameter to ensure close contact with the upper portion of the battery can 4. The inner diameter of the can support portion 16 may be smaller than the first inner diameter R1.

[0114] refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the can support portion 16 may include a first can support portion 161 and a second can support portion 162.

[0115] The first can support 161 can contact the periphery of the battery can 4 below the compression insertion part 17. The second can support 162 can contact the periphery of the battery can 4 above the compression insertion part 17.

[0116] The lower clamp body 11 may have a first inner diameter R1 that allows the second upper clamp 30 to be inserted therein. The first can support 161 may have a second inner diameter R2 that is smaller than the first inner diameter R1. The second inner diameter R2 may be smaller than the outer diameter of the battery can 4 in the unpressed state. Accordingly, the first can support 161 may be in close contact with the periphery of the battery can 4. The second can support 162 may have a third inner diameter R3 that is smaller than the first inner diameter R1.

[0117] The can support 16 can be positioned to be radially stacked on the lower clamp body 11. The lower clamp body 11 may have a first thickness T1 in the horizontal direction. The first can support 161 and the lower clamp body 11 together may have a second thickness T2 in the horizontal direction that is greater than the first thickness T1. The second can support 162 and the lower clamp body 11 together may have a third thickness T3 in the horizontal direction that is greater than the first thickness T1. Accordingly, the lower clamp 10 can achieve strong rigidity to resist forces acting on the center of the battery can 4.

[0118] As the second upper clamp 30 moves downward and is placed on the upper surface of the second can support 162, the upper portion of the battery can 4 can be bent downward toward the cover assembly 6. The upper portion of the battery can 4 can be bent downward by being pressed by the second upper clamp 30 while being surrounded by the second can support 162. The upper portion of the battery can 4 can be bent downward while the radial deformation exceeding the third inner diameter R3 is limited by the second can support 162.

[0119] The third inner diameter R3 can be larger than the second inner diameter R2. Accordingly, when the first can support 161 contacts the periphery of the battery can 4, a gap can be generated between the second can support 162 and the upper part of the battery can 4. When a gap is formed between the second can support 162 and the battery can 4, the second can support 162 can be prevented from being directly squeezed and from making tight contact with the upper part of the battery can 4 during the process of bending the upper part of the battery can 4.

[0120] Accordingly, in the process of bending the upper part of the battery can 4, damage to the surface of the battery can 4 caused by friction between the battery can 4 and the second can support 162 and the second upper clamp 30 can be reduced. Furthermore, the elastic upper part of the battery can 4 can be bent downwards toward the cover assembly 6 to form a more natural bending shape. Consequently, when a gap is formed between the second can support 162 and the battery can 4, the product appearance quality of the battery cell 2 can be further improved.

[0121] The compression insertion portion 17 is the part of the lower clamp 10 that is inserted into the compression portion 5 of the battery can 4. The compression insertion portion 17 may be provided on the inner peripheral portion of the can support portion 16 to further protrude toward the center of the battery can 4. The compression insertion portion 17 may be located between the first can support portion 161 and the second can support portion 162. The upper end portion of the battery can 4 located above the compression portion 5 may be supported from below by the compression insertion portion 17 inserted into the compression portion 5 while being pressed downward by the second upper clamp 30 and bent toward the cover assembly 6 provided above the compression portion 5.

[0122] The compression insertion portion 17 and the vertical extension surface 14 can be located on the same horizontal line H. In particular, the upper portions of the compression insertion portion 17 and the vertical extension surface 14 can be located on the same horizontal line H. The compression insertion portion 17 and the second extension surface 142 can be located on the same horizontal line H.

[0123] When the compression insert 17 and the vertically extending surface 14 are on the same horizontal line H, the force exerted by the first upper clamp 20 on the vertically extending surface 14 can be applied horizontally to the contact portion P between the compression part 5 and the compression insert 17. Accordingly, the force applied horizontally by the first upper clamp 20 to the vertically extending surface 14 can be prevented from acting as a torque on the contact portion P. Accordingly, damage to the compression insert 17, which has a width and thickness smaller than other parts of the lower clamp 10, can be reduced. Accordingly, the processing of the upper portion of the battery can 4 supported from below by the compression insert 17 can be reliably completed to achieve a certain form.

[0124] The compression insert 17 may be located at a height less than or equal to 15.0% of the total height of the can fixing part 15 from the top of the can fixing part 15. More preferably, the compression insert 17 may be located at a height equal to 8.1% to 9.6% of the total height of the can fixing part 15 from the top of the can fixing part 15.

[0125] For example, the can fixing portion 15 can be formed with a height (vertical thickness) of 19.65 mm. In this case, the coiling insertion portion 17 can be formed at a height of 14.05 to 18.5 mm from the bottom of the can fixing portion 15. More preferably, the coiling insertion portion 17 can be formed at a height of 17.75 to 17.95 mm from the bottom of the can fixing portion 15. The coiling insertion portion 17 can be formed 1.6 to 1.9 mm below the top of the can fixing portion 15.

[0126] The first can support 161 and the second can support 162 can have inner diameters R2 and R3 that satisfy R2 ≤ R3. For example, the first can support 161 can have an inner diameter R2 that satisfies 422.90 mm ≤ R2 ≤ 423.00 mm. The second can support 162 can have an inner diameter R3 that satisfies 422.90 mm ≤ R3 ≤ 423.10 mm. More preferably, the second inner diameter R2 of the first can support 161 can be in the range of 422.93 to 422.96 mm, and the third inner diameter R3 of the second can support 162 can be in the range of 422.96 to 423.03 mm. For example, the second inner diameter R2 can be 422.96 mm, and the third inner diameter R3 can be 423.03 mm. When the second inner diameter R2 and the third inner diameter R3 are the same, R2 = R3 = 423.03 mm, or R2 = R3 = 422.96 mm.

[0127] The compression insert 17 can be formed between the first can support 161 and the second can support 162, protruding further toward the center of the battery can 4. The end portion of the compression insert 17 that inserts into the compression portion 5 can have a minimum inner diameter in the lower clamp 10. The boundary portions between the first can support 161 and the compression insert 17, and between the second can support 162 and the compression insert 17, can have an arc-shaped bend.

[0128] refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the compression insert 17 (e.g., a portion thereof) may have a semi-circular or semi-elliptical cross-sectional shape. The compression insert 17 may have a vertically symmetrical shape and flat upper and lower surfaces.

[0129] For example, the boundary between the first can support 161 and the coiling insertion part 17 can have an arc-shaped bend with a radius of 1.3 to 1.6 mm. The boundary between the second can support 162 and the coiling insertion part 17 can have an arc-shaped bend with a radius of 0.5 to 0.9 mm. The end portion of the coiling insertion part 17 can have an arc-shaped bend with a radius of 0.5 to 0.7 mm. The first can support 161 can be formed to extend vertically parallel to the vertical line V.

[0130] Figure 9 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the main portion of the lower clamp according to at least another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0131] refer to Figure 9 According to at least another embodiment of the present disclosure, the compression insert 17 may have a triangular cross-sectional shape. The compression insert 17 may have at least one of its upper and lower surfaces formed as an inclined cross-sectional shape.

[0132] For example, the boundary portion between the compression insert 17, the first can support 161, and the second can support 162 according to at least another embodiment of the present disclosure may have the same size and shape as the compression insert 17 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The lower surface of the compression insert 17 may have an inclination angle of 30° to 40° based on the horizontal line H. The first can support 161 may be formed with an inclination angle of 100° to 120° based on its horizontally extending lower surface. The end portion of the compression insert 17 may have an arc-shaped bend with a radius of 0.4 to 0.5 mm.

[0133] refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 In addition to the lower clamp body 11, the upper clamp contact surface 12, and the can fixing portion 15, the lower clamp 10 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include an extension portion 18.

[0134] The lower clamp body 11, the upper clamp contact surface 12, and the can fixing part 15 can all have a shape corresponding to a portion of a cylinder in the circumferential direction. The extension 18 can have a square shape with a constant width and can be integrally formed with the lower side of the lower clamp body 11. The extension 18 can be formed to extend radially from the lower side of the upper clamp contact surface 12 or to extend radially below the upper clamp contact surface 12. Since the coiling insertion part 17 and the upper clamp contact surface 12 are located on the same horizontal line H, the extension 18 can be located below the coiling insertion part 17.

[0135] Extensions 18 may be formed on each of the plurality of assembly clamps 10A, 10B, and 10C, and each of the plurality of extensions 18 may extend radially about the battery can 4. When the extensions 18 are guided by the guide unit 40, the assembly clamps 10A, 10B, and 10C may move in a direction toward the center of the battery can 4, or return in the opposite radial direction. In this case, the assembly clamps 10A, 10B, and 10C may have the same width and may move close to or spaced apart from each other.

[0136] Figure 10 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the main portions of a first upper clamp and a second upper clamp according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 11 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the main portion of a first upper clamp according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0137] refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11 According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first upper clamp 20 may include a first upper clamp body 21, a clamp pressing surface 22, an upper clamp connecting portion 27, and an insertion space 28.

[0138] The first upper clamp body 21 may have a cylindrical shape and may be mounted to be movable toward the lower clamp 10. The first upper clamp body 21 may be located above the lower clamp body 11 and may have a diameter that allows the first upper clamp body 21 to contact the upper clamp contact surface 12 of the lower clamp 10 when it descends.

[0139] The clamping pressing surface 22 of the first upper clamp 20 is the portion that contacts the lower clamp 10 and presses the lower clamp 10 toward the battery can 4. The clamping pressing surface 22 may be formed on the inner circumferential portion of the first upper clamp body 21.

[0140] refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11 According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the clamp extrusion surface 22 may include an inclined extrusion surface 23 and a horizontal extrusion surface 24.

[0141] An inclined pressing surface 23 may be formed on the lower portion of the inner periphery of the first upper clamp body 21 and inclined at a first inclination angle θ. A horizontal pressing surface 24 may be formed above the inclined pressing surface 23 and extend vertically. When the first upper clamp body 21 descends, the inclined pressing surface 23 and the horizontal pressing surface 24 may sequentially contact the inclined surface 13 and the vertically extending surface 14 of the lower clamp 10.

[0142] The inclined pressing surface 23 can contact the inclined surface 13 of the lower clamp 10, pressing the lower clamp 10, and moving the lower clamp 10 toward the battery canister 4 while moving downward in contact with the inclined surface 13. The inclined pressing surface 23 can be continuously formed along the periphery of the lower end portion of the inner peripheral portion of the first upper clamp body 21.

[0143] The inclined extrusion surface 23 and the inclined surface 13 may have a first inclination angle θ and may be in surface contact with each other in a direction perpendicular to the first inclination angle θ. The inclined extrusion surface 23 may have a smaller vertical width than the inclined surface 13. The inclined extrusion surface 23 may sequentially contact the first inclined surface 131 and the second inclined surface 132 while maintaining a constant contact area with the inclined surface 13.

[0144] When the inclined pressing surface 23 contacts the inclined surface 13 and descends in a direction perpendicular to the first tilt angle θ, the inclined surface 13 can be pushed and moved towards the center of the battery can 4 via the inclined pressing surface 23. As the inclined surface 13 moves towards the center of the battery can 4, the outer diameter of the lower clamp body 11 can gradually decrease, and the inclined pressing surface 23 can descend further. When the inclined surface 13 moves a first horizontal distance DR1, the inclined pressing surface 23 can move downward a first vertical distance DL1.

[0145] The horizontal extrusion surface 24 can horizontally contact the vertically extending surface 14 of the lower clamp 10. The horizontal extrusion surface 24 can be continuously formed along the periphery of the inner peripheral portion of the first upper clamp body 21. The horizontal extrusion surface 24 may include a first portion 25 located at the lower end portion and a second portion 26 located above the first portion 25. The first portion 25 can sequentially contact the first extending surface 141 and the second extending surface 142 of the vertically extending surface 14. When the first portion 25 contacts the second extending surface 142, the second portion 26 can contact the first extending surface 141.

[0146] The upper clamp connecting portion 27 can be the part that fixes the second upper clamp 30, and can be formed in the upper part of the first upper clamp body 21. The second upper clamp 30 can be disposed in the first upper clamp body 21, and the upper part of the second upper clamp 30 can be connected to the upper clamp connecting portion 27 by a fastening member (not shown) such as a bolt. In the state where the second upper clamp 30 is connected to the upper clamp connecting portion 27, the lower part of the second upper clamp 30 can face the clamp pressing surface 22 radially, and a space is between them.

[0147] The insertion space 28 is the portion into which the lower clamp 10 is inserted when the first upper clamp body 21 descends. The insertion space 28 can be formed between the clamp pressing surface 22 and the second upper clamp 30 to open downwards. The lower clamp body 11 can be pushed by the inclined pressing surface 23, gradually moving towards the center of the battery can 4 and inserting into the insertion space 28. When the lower clamp body 11 is inserted into the insertion space 28, the vertically extending surface 14 can contact the descending horizontal pressing surface 24 over a gradually increasing area.

[0148] Because of the formed insertion space 28, the lower clamp body 11 can perform the above-mentioned functions without interfering with the second upper clamp 30. With the lower clamp body 11 inserted into the insertion space 28, the second upper clamp 30 can contact the upper surface of the can support 16, which is located at a lower height than the lower clamp body 11, without interfering with the lower clamp body 11.

[0149] Figure 12 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the main portion of a second upper clamp according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 13 This is an example Figure 12 Enlarged view of the main parts.

[0150] refer to Figure 12 and Figure 13 According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second upper clamp 30 may include a second upper clamp body 31, a seat surface 32, a downward pressing surface 33, and an arcuate surface 34.

[0151] The second upper clamp body 31 may have a cylindrical shape and may be fixed inside the first upper clamp 20. The lower clamp body 11 may have a first inner diameter R1, and the second upper clamp body 31 may have a diameter smaller than the first inner diameter R1 and may be disposed within the lower clamp body 11. The second upper clamp body 31 and the first upper clamp body 21 may be disposed on the same vertical line V.

[0152] The seat surface 32 may be the portion that contacts the upper surface of the can fixing portion 15, and may form at the lower end of the second upper clamp body 31 (e.g., on the periphery of the outer peripheral portion of the bottom of the second upper clamp body 31). The seat surface 32 and the can fixing portion 15 may have the same inner diameter. The seat surface 32 and the second can support portion 162 may have the same third inner diameter R3.

[0153] The downward pressing surface 33 can be formed inside the seat surface 32 to be recessed upward to a set depth D. The downward pressing surface 33 can have a flat shape. The downward pressing surface 33 can press down on the upper part of the battery can 4 located above the rolled portion 5 so that the upper part of the battery can 4 is in close contact with the cover assembly 6. The upper part of the battery can 4 can be pressed by the downward pressing surface 33 to have a flat upper surface. The downward pressing surface 33 can be formed such that 0.2mm ≤ D ≤ 4.0mm is satisfied.

[0154] An arcuate surface 34 may be formed between the seat surface 32 and the downward pressing surface 33 in an arcuate shape (e.g., an arcuate shape with a set curvature R). The arcuate surface 34 may be formed such that 0.5mm ≤ R ≤ 4.5mm is satisfied. The arcuate surface 34 may have a set curvature R.

[0155] Figure 14 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the main portion of the second upper clamp according to at least another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0156] refer to Figure 14 When the downward pressing surface 33 has a multi-level structure, multiple arcuate surfaces 34 with different curvatures R can be formed according to their radial positions. Multiple arcuate surfaces 34 with different curvatures R can be formed between the seat surface 32 and the downward pressing surface 33. In this case, the multiple arcuate surfaces 34 can be formed such that 0.1 mm ≤ R ≤ 17.0 mm is satisfied.

[0157] Because the arcuate surface 34 is continuously formed on the inner side of the seat surface 32, when the second upper clamp 30 descends, the upper portion of the battery can 4 can contact the arcuate surface 34 and can naturally bend or tilt towards the downward pressing surface 33. The formation of the arcuate surface 34 prevents the upper portion of the battery can 4 from deforming into a random shape and being crushed. Furthermore, it prevents the second upper clamp 30 from wearing down due to excessive contact with the upper portion of the battery can 4.

[0158] Figure 15 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the main portion of a guide unit according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 16 This is an exploded schematic perspective view illustrating the main portion of a guide unit according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 17This is a schematic perspective view illustrating key components (such as the lower clamp, the first housing, and the second housing) according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 18 This is an exploded schematic perspective view illustrating key components (such as a lower clamp, a first housing, and a second housing) according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0159] refer to Figures 15 to 18 In addition to the lower clamp 10, the first upper clamp 20, and the second upper clamp 30, the crimping device 1 for the battery cell 2 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a guide unit 40 for guiding radial movement of the extension portion 18 of the lower clamp 10. The lower clamp 10 may be guided by the guide unit 40 in a direction toward the battery can 4 and in the opposite direction.

[0160] refer to Figures 15 to 18 According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the guiding unit 40 may include a first housing 41, a second housing 42, and a clamp return device 44.

[0161] The first housing 41 can support the lower clamp 10 from below. The first housing 41 can have an integral disc shape. The lower clamp 10 can be mounted on the first housing 41.

[0162] The second housing 42 may be disposed on the first housing 41, with the extension 18 of the lower clamp 10 located between them. A guide surface 43 for guiding the movement of the extension 18 may be formed between the first housing 41 and the second housing 42. The first housing 41 and the second housing 42 may be connected to each other by fastening members (not shown), such as bolts.

[0163] The guide surface 43 can contact the side surface of the extension 18 and can guide the movement of the extension 18 in a predetermined direction. The guide surface 43 can be formed to extend radially to guide the radial movement of the lower clamp 10.

[0164] The guide surface 43 can be formed by making the upper part of the first housing 41 protrude upward or the lower part of the second housing 42 protrude downward.

[0165] The guide surface 43 can be formed by making the upper part of the first housing 41 recessed downwards or the lower part of the second housing 42 recessed upwards.

[0166] Figure 19This is a schematic plan view illustrating a first housing according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0167] refer to Figure 18 and Figure 19 According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first housing 41 may include a first housing body 411 and a first guide groove 413.

[0168] The first outer casing 411 may have the shape of a disc with a hole 412 formed in the center, and the battery can 4 may pass through the hole 412.

[0169] The first guide groove 413 may be a portion that guides the radial movement of the extension portion 18, and may be formed to be recessed from the upper portion of the first housing body 411. The first guide groove 413 may be formed to extend radially in the upper portion of the first housing body 411 and to be formed radially around the vertical line V. The extension portion 18 may be configured to pass through the first housing body 411 via the first guide groove 413.

[0170] The first guide groove 413 may have a vertical width corresponding to a portion or all of the vertical thickness of the extension 18 and a lateral width corresponding to the lateral width of the extension 18. The side surface of the first guide groove 413 may serve as a guide surface 43 for guiding the radial movement of the extension 18. The extension 18 may contact the side surface of the first guide groove 413, thereby guiding the radial movement of the extension 18. When the extension 18 is positioned in the first guide groove 413, the side surface of the extension 18 may contact the side surface of the first guide groove 413, thereby restricting the lateral movement of the extension 18.

[0171] Figure 20 This is a schematic plan view illustrating a second housing according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0172] refer to Figure 18 and Figure 20 According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second housing 42 may include a second housing body 421, a descending guide surface 422, and a second guide groove 423.

[0173] The second housing body 421 may have a cylindrical shape that allows the first upper clamp 20 to be inserted into the second housing body 421. At least a portion of the first upper clamp 20 may be inserted into the second housing body 421. The first upper clamp 20 may have an initial position in which the lower portion of the first upper clamp 20 contacts the inner surface of the second housing body 421.

[0174] The descent guide surface 422 may be a portion that guides the descent of the first upper clamp 20, and may be formed on the inner periphery of the second housing body 421 to extend vertically. The first upper clamp 20 may descend directly toward the lower clamp 10 while in contact with the descent guide surface 422.

[0175] The second guide groove 423 may be a portion that guides the radial movement of the extension portion 18, and may be formed to extend radially in the lower portion of the second housing body 421. The second guide groove 423 may be formed to radially pass through the second housing body 421 and to be formed radially about a vertical line V. The extension portion 18 may be configured to pass through the second housing body 421 via the second guide groove 423.

[0176] The second guide groove 423 may have a vertical width corresponding to the vertical thickness of the extension 18 and a lateral width corresponding to the lateral width of the extension 18. The side surface of the extension 18 may serve as a guide surface 43 for guiding the radial movement of the extension 18. The extension 18 may contact the side surface of the second guide groove 423, thereby guiding the radial movement of the extension 18. The extension 18 may contact the upper surface of the second guide groove 423 while being housed within the first housing 41, thereby restricting the vertical movement of the extension 18.

[0177] The clamp return device 44 is a device that returns the lower clamp 10, which has moved toward the battery can 4, to its initial position. The clamp return device 44 can continuously apply a spring force to the lower clamp 10 in the radial direction. Accordingly, when the first upper clamp 20 moves upward and is spaced apart from the lower clamp 10, the lower clamp 10 can automatically return via the clamp return device 44.

[0178] Figure 21 This is a schematic side view illustrating a spring block according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0179] refer to Figure 15 and Figure 21 According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the clamp return device 44 may include a spring block 45 and an elastic member 46.

[0180] The spring block 45 can be connected to the lower clamp 10 radially outward from the second housing 42. The spring block 45 can move with the lower clamp 10 while being connected to the extension 18. The spring block 45 can have the shape of an upright plate.

[0181] The spring block 45 can be secured to the radial end of the extension 18 by a fastening member (not shown), such as a bolt. A clamping hole 451 can be formed through the lower portion of the spring block 45. A fastening member (not shown) can pass through the clamping hole 451 and can be secured to the extension 18. The upper portion of the spring block 45 can be configured to face the second housing 42 radially. The second end portion 462 of the elastic member 46 (described below) is inserted into and engaged with the spring connecting hole 452 therein can be formed in the upper portion of the spring block 45.

[0182] The elastic member 46 may have a compression spring structure and may be disposed between the second housing 42 and the spring block 45 to extend horizontally. A first end portion 461 of the elastic member 46 may be connected to the second housing 42, and a second end portion 462 may be connected to the upper portion of the spring block 45.

[0183] The second housing 42 can be connected to the first housing 41 to maintain a constant position, and the first end portion 461 can also maintain a constant position. When the lower clamp 10 moves toward the battery canister 4, the spring block 45 can move with the lower clamp 10, and the second end portion 462 can also move with it. When the lower clamp 10 moves toward the battery canister 4, the elastic member 46 can be elastically compressed in coordination with the movement of the spring block 45.

[0184] As the lower clamp 10 moves toward the battery can 4, the compressive force can be continuously applied radially to the lower clamp 10 via the elastic member 46. As the lower clamp 10 moves toward the battery can 4, the compression displacement and elastic force of the elastic member 46 can increase with the increase in the displacement of the lower clamp 10. When the force pressing the lower clamp 10 toward the battery can 4 is released, for example, when the first upper clamp 20 is spaced apart from the lower clamp 10, the lower clamp 10 can quickly return to its initial position via the elastic restoring force of the elastic member 46.

[0185] Figure 22 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the main parts of a crimping device for a battery cell in its initial state, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 23 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the main portion of the first upper clamp in a state where it is lowered and in contact with the inclined surface of the lower clamp, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 24 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the main portion of the first upper clamp in a state where, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first upper clamp has further descended, reached the lower end of the inclined surface of the lower clamp, and begun to contact the vertically extending surface. Figure 25 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the main portion of the first upper clamp in a state where it is further lowered and in contact with the vertically extending surface, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0186] It can be done as follows Figure 22 As shown, the battery cell 2, as a semi-finished product, is arranged between assembly fixtures 10A, 10B, and 10C, which are spaced apart from each other. Figure 23 As shown, both the first upper clamp 20 and the second upper clamp 30 are lowered, as... Figure 24 As shown, the lower clamp 10 supports the periphery of the battery can 4, and as... Figure 25 The second upper clamp 30 is used to press and seal the battery can 4 to perform the crimping process. In addition, while the first upper clamp 20 is raised, the clamp return device 44 can be used to return the splicing clamps 10A, 10B and 10C to their initial positions.

[0187] The process of transferring battery cell 2 from the assembly fixtures 10A, 10B, and 10C to another position and arranging the battery cell 2 as a new semi-finished product between the assembly fixtures 10A, 10B, and 10C can be repeatedly performed. That is, multiple battery cells 2 can be crimped by repeatedly performing the process of arranging the battery cell 2 as a semi-finished product between the assembly fixtures 10A, 10B, and 10C, lowering and raising the first upper fixture 20 and the second upper fixture 30, and transferring the battery cell 2 to another position.

[0188] According to at least one embodiment of this disclosure, a pressing process can be reliably performed by performing a simple process in which a battery cell, as a semi-finished product, is arranged inside a lower clamp, both a first upper clamp and a second upper clamp are lowered, the lower clamp is used to support the periphery of the battery can, and the second upper clamp is used to press and seal the end portion of the battery can toward the cover assembly.

[0189] Furthermore, according to at least one embodiment of this disclosure, by arranging the vertically extending surface of the lower clamp and the coiling insertion portion on the same horizontal line, the position where the force of the first upper clamp horizontally pressing the vertically extending surface is applied and the contact portion between the coiling portion and the coiling insertion portion can be located on the same horizontal line.

[0190] Accordingly, since the winding insert can make uniform contact with the entire winding section, damage to the winding section (such as scratches or dents) caused by uneven contact between the winding insert and a part of the winding section can be prevented. Furthermore, damage to the winding section or surrounding areas by the winding insert can be prevented when it is inserted into or removed from the winding section. Additionally, uneven thickness and outer diameter formation across the entire periphery of the battery cell can be prevented. Consequently, the external formation quality of the battery cell can be improved.

[0191] However, the effects that can be obtained through this disclosure are not limited to the above effects, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand other technical effects not mentioned from the above description of this disclosure.

[0192] Although this disclosure has been described with reference to embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, these embodiments are merely illustrative, and it should be understood that those skilled in the art can derive various modifications and equivalent other embodiments based on these embodiments.

Claims

1. A crimping device for battery cells, comprising: The lower clamp is configured to be positioned around the periphery of the battery can; A first upper clamp is configured to descend above the battery can to contact the lower clamp, and to press and move the lower clamp toward the battery can; and A second upper clamp is disposed inside the first upper clamp and configured to descend together with the first upper clamp and press down on the end portion of the battery can such that the end portion bends toward the cover assembly of the battery cell.

2. The crimping device for a battery cell according to claim 1, wherein the lower clamp includes a splicing clamp that is divided into multiple parts along the periphery of the battery can and moves toward the battery can in coordination with the descent of the first upper clamp.

3. The crimping device for battery cells according to claim 1, wherein the lower clamp comprises: The lower clamp body has a first inner diameter that allows the second upper clamp to be inserted into the lower clamp body, and is configured to be disposed around the periphery of the battery can; The upper clamping contact surface is formed on the outer peripheral portion of the lower clamping body and contacts the first upper clamping while the first upper clamping is descending; and The can retaining portion is formed to protrude from the inner periphery of the lower clamp body and is configured to contact the battery can when the first upper clamp descends.

4. The crimping device for battery cells according to claim 3, wherein the upper clamp contact surface comprises: An inclined surface is formed on the outer peripheral portion of the lower clamp body to be inclined outward, and contacts the first upper clamp as the first upper clamp descends; and A vertically extending surface is formed below the inclined surface to extend vertically and contacts the first upper clamp as the first upper clamp descends.

5. The crimping device for a battery cell according to claim 4, wherein the inclined surface is formed at a first inclination angle such that when the first upper clamp descends a first vertical distance while in contact with the inclined surface, the lower clamp moves a first horizontal distance toward the battery can.

6. The crimping device for battery cells according to claim 4, wherein the can fixing part comprises: The can support has an inner diameter smaller than the first inner diameter and is configured to contact the periphery of the battery can; and The compression insertion portion is formed to protrude from the inner periphery of the can support portion and be inserted into the compression portion of the battery can.

7. The crimping device for battery cells according to claim 6, wherein the can support comprises: The first can support portion has a second inner diameter smaller than the first inner diameter and is configured to contact the periphery of the battery can below the compression insertion portion; and The second can support is configured to contact the periphery of the battery can above the compression insertion portion and has a third inner diameter smaller than the first inner diameter.

8. The crimping device for battery cells according to claim 7, wherein: The lower clamp body has a first thickness in the horizontal direction; The first tank support and the lower clamp body together have a second thickness in the horizontal direction that is greater than the first thickness; and The second tank support and the lower clamp body together have a third thickness in the horizontal direction that is greater than the first thickness.

9. The crimping device for a battery cell according to claim 7, wherein the third inner diameter is larger than the second inner diameter, such that when the first can support contacts the battery can, a gap is formed between the second can support and the battery can.

10. The crimping apparatus for a battery cell according to claim 6, wherein the crimping insertion portion and the vertically extending surface are located on the same horizontal line, such that the force of the first upper clamp pressing the vertically extending surface in the horizontal direction is applied toward the contact portion between the crimping portion and the crimping insertion portion.

11. The crimping apparatus for a battery cell according to claim 6, wherein the vertically extending surface comprises: A first extended surface, formed below the inclined surface, is configured to contact the descending first upper clamp horizontally and is located on the same horizontal line as the compression insert. and A second extension surface is formed below the first extension surface to have the same vertical length as the first extension surface and is configured to make horizontal contact with the lower portion of the first upper clamp that has passed the first extension surface.

12. The crimping apparatus for a battery cell according to claim 3, wherein the lower clamp further includes an extension portion formed to extend radially below the contact surface of the upper clamp and to contact a guide unit to guide radial movement of the lower clamp.

13. The crimping device for battery cells according to claim 1, wherein the first upper clamp comprises: The first upper clamp body is mounted to be movable toward the lower clamp; A clamping extrusion surface is formed on the inner circumferential portion of the first upper clamp body, and contacts the lower clamp during descent and presses the lower clamp toward the battery canister; An upper clamp connecting portion is formed on the upper part of the first upper clamp body, and the second upper clamp is fixed to the upper clamp connecting portion; and An insertion space is formed between the clamping surfaces facing each other and the second upper clamp to open downwards, and the lower clamp is inserted into the insertion space when the body of the first upper clamp is lowered.

14. The crimping apparatus for battery cells according to claim 13, wherein the clamping pressing surface comprises: An inclined pressing surface is formed on the lower portion of the inner circumferential portion of the first upper clamp body at an inclination, and when the first upper clamp body descends, the inclined pressing surface contacts the inclined surface formed on the lower clamp, and presses and moves the lower clamp toward the battery can. and A horizontal extrusion surface is formed above the inclined extrusion surface and extends vertically, and is configured to contact the vertically extending surface formed on the lower clamp in the horizontal direction.

15. The crimping device for battery cells according to claim 1, wherein the second upper clamp comprises: The second upper clamp body is fixed inside the first upper clamp; The seat surface, formed at the lower end of the second upper clamp body, is configured to contact the upper surface of the can fixing portion formed on the lower clamp, and has the same inner diameter as the can fixing portion; The downward pressing surface is formed inside the seat surface to be recessed upward, and the upper part of the battery can that protrudes upward from the can fixing part is pressed towards the cover assembly; and An arcuate surface is formed between the seat surface and the downward pressing surface in an arc shape, and is configured to contact the upper portion of the battery can such that the upper portion of the battery can bend or tilt toward the downward pressing surface.

16. The crimping apparatus for a battery cell according to claim 1, further comprising a guiding unit that guides the movement of the lower clamp toward the battery can.

17. The crimping device for battery cells according to claim 16, wherein the guiding unit comprises: A first housing, on which the lower clamp is mounted; A second housing is disposed on the first housing, and the lower clamp is located between the first housing and the second housing, and a guide surface is formed between the second housing and the first housing, the guide surface guiding the movement of the lower clamp; and The clamp return device returns the lower clamp, which has moved toward the battery canister, to its initial position.

18. The crimping device for a battery cell according to claim 17, wherein the first housing comprises: The first outer casing body has the shape of a disk, and a hole is formed in the central portion of the disk; and A first guide groove is formed recessed in the upper portion of the first housing body, the lower clamp passes through the first guide groove, and the first guide groove contacts the lower clamp to guide the radial movement of the lower clamp.

19. The crimping device for a battery cell according to claim 17, wherein the second housing comprises: The second outer shell body has a cylindrical shape that allows the first upper clamp to be inserted into the second outer shell body; A descent guide surface is formed on the inner peripheral portion of the second housing body and contacts the outer surface of the first upper clamp to guide the descent of the first upper clamp; and A second guide groove is formed to extend radially in the lower portion of the second housing body, through which the lower clamp passes and contacts the lower clamp to guide radial movement of the lower clamp.

20. The crimping apparatus for battery cells according to claim 17, wherein the clamp return device comprises: A spring block is connected to the lower clamp on the radially outer side of the second housing and is configured to move with the lower clamp; and An elastic member is disposed between the second housing and the spring block, and when the lower clamp moves toward the battery canister, the elastic member and the movement of the spring block are elastically compressed in coordination.

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