Strip preparation device and strip preparation method

Abstract

The invention provides a strip preparation device and a strip preparation method, and the strip preparation device comprises a pressing mechanism, a cutting mechanism and a traction mechanism which are sequentially arranged along a first direction, and further comprises a splicing detection mechanism which is arranged in front of the pressing mechanism or arranged between the pressing mechanism and the cutting mechanism. The traction mechanism clamps the free end of the strip from the cutting mechanism and drags the strip penetrating through the splicing detection mechanism, the pressing mechanism and the cutting mechanism away from the cutting mechanism. The splicing detection mechanism identifies the thickness abnormal part of the strip; the traction mechanism drags the abnormal thickness part of the strip out of the cutting mechanism, so that the abnormal thickness part of the strip is located on the outer side of the cutting mechanism. The cutting-off mechanism cuts off the strip, and the pressing mechanism presses the strip when the cutting-off mechanism cuts off the strip. According to the strip preparation device, the part with the abnormal thickness can be detected and positioned, the part with the abnormal thickness can be removed, and the part with the abnormal thickness is prevented from flowing into a subsequent station.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of photovoltaic cell module production equipment, specifically a strip preparation apparatus and a strip preparation method. Background Technology

[0002] In the production of photovoltaic modules, one step involves welding busbars to the ends of the arranged cell strings. Before welding the busbars, the material rolls need to be released and cut to obtain busbars with the target length.

[0003] When the busbars on a busbar reel are almost used up, a new reel needs to be replaced. To ensure a continuous supply of busbars, when cutting off the busbars on the old reel and removing the old reel, the end of the cut busbar needs to be lap-welded to the free end of the busbar on the new reel to achieve the continuation of the old and new busbars. However, the continuation part of the busbar cannot be used for subsequent busbar welding and needs to be discarded. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, this application provides a strip preparation apparatus, which adopts the following technical solution:

[0005] A strip preparation apparatus includes a pressing mechanism, a cutting mechanism, and a traction mechanism arranged sequentially along a first direction. The strip preparation apparatus further includes a continuation detection mechanism disposed before the pressing mechanism or between the pressing mechanism and the cutting mechanism, wherein:

[0006] The traction mechanism is configured to grip the free end of the strip from the cutting mechanism and to pull the strip away from the cutting mechanism in a first direction through the continuation detection mechanism, the clamping mechanism and the cutting mechanism;

[0007] The subsequent testing unit is configured to identify areas of abnormal strip thickness;

[0008] The traction mechanism is also configured to pull the abnormal thickness portion of the strip out of the cutting mechanism, so that the abnormal thickness portion of the strip is located outside the cutting mechanism.

[0009] The cutting mechanism is configured to cut the strip;

[0010] The clamping mechanism is configured to clamp the strip when the cutting mechanism cuts the strip.

[0011] The strip preparation apparatus provided in this application is equipped with a continuation detection mechanism, which can automatically detect and locate the thickness abnormal parts on the strip, thereby removing the thickness abnormal parts and preventing them from flowing into the subsequent processing station.

[0012] Because the new and old busbars are joined by lap welding, the thickness of the joint is greater than that of the rest of the busbar. The joint detection mechanism identifies the abnormal thickness at the joint area. After detecting the abnormal thickness, the traction mechanism pulls the abnormal thickness area of ​​the busbar out of the cutting mechanism, which then cuts the busbar. This process removes the abnormal thickness area from the busbar, preventing it from flowing into the subsequent busbar welding station. In other words, the strip preparation device in this embodiment is suitable for preparing busbars, ensuring that the joint on the busbar is removed and that the target busbar is free of joints.

[0013] In some embodiments, the continuation detection mechanism includes a mounting base, a first roller, a second roller, a movable rod, an elastic element, and a sensor, wherein: the first roller is rotatably mounted on the mounting base; the movable rod is slidably mounted on the mounting base along a second direction, and an elastic element is disposed between the movable rod and the mounting base, wherein the second direction is the thickness direction of the strip; the second roller is rotatably mounted on the first end of the movable rod, and the strip passes between the second roller and the first roller along the first direction, and the second roller elastically presses the strip against the first roller under the pushing of the elastic element; the sensor is mounted on the mounting base, and when the movable rod slides away from the first roller along the second direction to the sensing position, the sensor is triggered to generate a sensing signal.

[0014] A simple splice detection mechanism is provided, which can automatically detect and position the splice segment during the traction process of the traction mechanism to pull the strip. The traction of the strip does not need to be stopped during the detection process, so it will not affect the strip preparation efficiency.

[0015] In addition, when the strip passes through the first roller and the second roller, the first roller and the second roller roll under the drive of the strip, so they will not hinder the traction and conveying of the strip, and can also reduce the friction on the strip.

[0016] In some embodiments, the mounting base includes a first base body and a second base body, wherein: one of the first base body and the second base body is provided with a waist hole extending in a second direction, and the other of the first base body and the second base body is provided with a connecting screw hole that mates with the waist hole; the second base body is adjustablely connected to the first base body via a bolt passing through the waist hole and the connecting screw hole; a movable rod is slidably inserted into the second base body, and an elastic element is disposed between the movable rod and the second base body.

[0017] By adjusting the mounting position of the second seat in the second direction, the pushing force of the elastic element can be adjusted, ensuring that when the strip passes between the second roller and the first roller, the second roller can elastically press the strip against the first roller, thereby enabling the splicing detection mechanism to adapt to the detection of strips with different thicknesses and enhancing the compatibility of the invention.

[0018] In some embodiments, the second end of the movable rod extends outward from the mounting base, and the sensor is mounted on the mounting base and close to the second end of the movable rod. When the movable rod slides to the sensing position, the second end of the movable rod triggers the sensor. Alternatively, the movable rod is provided with a trigger, and the sensor is mounted on the mounting base and close to the trigger. When the movable rod slides to the sensing position, the trigger triggers the sensor.

[0019] By triggering the sensor through the second end of the moving rod, the structure of the follow-up detection mechanism is simplified and the cost is reduced. Including a trigger element on the moving rod improves the reliability of sensor triggering.

[0020] In some embodiments, the sensor is a proximity sensor or a photoelectric sensor.

[0021] Two simple and sensitive sensors are provided. When the moving rod slides away from the first roller in the second direction to the sensing position, it can be triggered to generate a sensing signal.

[0022] In some embodiments, the continuation detection mechanism is a dual-sheet detector, with the receiving end and transmitting end of the dual-sheet detector spaced apart along the thickness direction of the strip, and the strip passing between the receiving end and the transmitting end of the dual-sheet detector.

[0023] The dual-sheet detector can emit different signals when the continuation section of the strip and the rest of the normal section of the strip pass through its receiving end and transmitting end, thereby realizing the detection and positioning of the continuation section on the strip.

[0024] In some embodiments, the traction mechanism includes a translation drive module, a mounting plate, and a clamping assembly, wherein the mounting plate is connected to a movable part of the translation drive module, and the clamping assembly is disposed on the mounting plate; the translation drive module is configured to drive the mounting plate to translate along a first direction to cause the clamping assembly to clamp the free end of the strip from the cutting mechanism and to pull the strip away from the cutting mechanism.

[0025] A simple traction mechanism is provided, which drives the gripping assembly to translate in a first direction through a translation drive module, thereby causing the gripping assembly to grip the free end of the strip from the cutting mechanism and to pull the strip away from the cutting mechanism.

[0026] In some embodiments, the clamping mechanism includes a first mounting bracket, a pressure plate, a pressure block, and a clamping drive module, wherein: the pressure plate is fixedly mounted on the first mounting bracket; the pressure block is connected to the movable part of the clamping drive module; the strip passes through between the pressure block and the pressure plate, and the clamping drive module is configured to drive the pressure block to move toward or away from the pressure plate to clamp or release the strip.

[0027] A simple clamping mechanism is provided, which drives the pressure block to move toward or away from the pressure plate through a clamping drive module, so as to clamp or release the strip passing between the pressure block and the pressure plate.

[0028] In some embodiments, the cutting mechanism includes a second mounting bracket, a fixed cutter, a movable cutter, and a cutter drive module, wherein: the fixed cutter is fixedly mounted on the second mounting bracket; the movable cutter is connected to the movable part of the cutter drive module; the strip passes between the movable cutter and the fixed cutter, and the cutter drive module is configured to drive the movable cutter to move toward the fixed cutter to cut the strip.

[0029] A simple cutting mechanism is provided, which drives a movable cutter toward a fixed cutter via a cutter drive module to perform rapid cutting of a strip passing between the movable and fixed cutters.

[0030] This application also provides a strip preparation method, which is carried out by the strip preparation apparatus described in any of the above claims, the strip preparation method comprising:

[0031] The control traction mechanism clamps the free end of the strip from the cutting mechanism and pulls the strip;

[0032] When the continuous testing agency detects an abnormal thickness area in the strip, it obtains the first length value of the strip between the free end of the strip and the abnormal thickness area.

[0033] Compare the obtained first length value with the target length value of the target strip to be prepared;

[0034] Based on the comparison results, the following actions were taken:

[0035] When the first length value is greater than the target length value:

[0036] The traction mechanism is controlled to continue traction of the strip. When the total length of the strip pulled out of the cutting mechanism is equal to the target length value, the cutting mechanism is controlled to cut the strip to obtain the target strip.

[0037] Control the traction mechanism to grab the free end of the strip from the cutting mechanism again and pull the strip until the part of the strip with abnormal thickness is pulled out of the cutting mechanism, and control the cutting mechanism to cut the strip.

[0038] When the first length value is less than or equal to the target length value:

[0039] The traction mechanism continues to pull the strip. When the total length of the strip pulled out of the cutting mechanism is equal to the sum of the first length value and the predetermined length, the cutting mechanism cuts the strip. The predetermined length is at least equal to the length of the abnormal thickness part of the strip.

[0040] The strip preparation method provided in this application can automatically detect and locate the thickness abnormality parts on the strip, and remove the thickness abnormality parts based on their location, so as to prevent the thickness abnormality parts from flowing into the subsequent processing station.

[0041] Since the new and old busbars are joined by lap welding, the thickness of the joint is greater than that of the rest of the busbar. The joint detection mechanism detects the part with abnormal thickness as the joint part. After detecting the part with abnormal thickness, the traction mechanism pulls the part with abnormal thickness of the busbar out of the cutting mechanism, and then the cutting mechanism cuts the busbar. This removes the part with abnormal thickness of the busbar and prevents it from flowing into the subsequent busbar welding station.

[0042] In some embodiments, obtaining a first length value of the strip between the free end of the strip and the portion of the strip with an abnormal thickness includes: obtaining the traction stroke of the traction mechanism; and calculating the sum of the distance between the splicing detection mechanism and the cutting mechanism and the traction stroke of the traction mechanism to obtain the first length value.

[0043] The first length value is equal to the sum of the distance between the continuation detection mechanism and the cutting mechanism and the traction stroke of the traction mechanism. The distance between the continuation detection mechanism and the cutting mechanism is a known fixed value, while the traction stroke of the traction mechanism can be obtained from the control terminal of the traction mechanism (e.g., a PLC controller).

[0044] This application also provides another method for preparing a strip, which is carried out by the strip preparation apparatus of any of the above claims, the method comprising:

[0045] The control traction mechanism grips the free end of the strip from the cutting mechanism and pulls the strip;

[0046] When the continuous testing agency detects an abnormal thickness area in the strip, it obtains the first length value of the strip between the free end of the strip and the abnormal thickness area.

[0047] Subtract the safety value from the first length value to obtain the corrected first length value;

[0048] Compare the obtained corrected first length value with the target length value of the target strip to be prepared;

[0049] Based on the comparison results, the following actions were taken:

[0050] When the corrected first length value is greater than the target length value:

[0051] The traction mechanism is controlled to continue traction of the strip. When the total length of the strip pulled out of the cutting mechanism is equal to the target length value, the cutting mechanism is controlled to cut the strip to obtain the target strip.

[0052] Control the traction mechanism to grab the free end of the strip from the cutting mechanism again and pull the strip until the part of the strip with abnormal thickness is pulled out of the cutting mechanism, and control the cutting mechanism to cut the strip.

[0053] When the corrected first length value is less than or equal to the target length value:

[0054] The control traction mechanism continues to pull the strip. When the total length of the strip pulled out of the cutting mechanism is equal to the sum of the first length value and the predetermined length, the control cutting mechanism cuts the strip, wherein the predetermined length is at least equal to the length of the part with abnormal thickness.

[0055] Due to insufficient detection sensitivity and signal transmission delays in the continuation detection mechanism, a portion of the thickness anomaly may have already passed through the mechanism when it detects it. In other words, the location of the thickness anomaly detected by the continuation detection mechanism may not be the beginning of the anomaly, but rather its middle or even end. By correcting the first length value of the strip between the free end and the thickness anomaly, and comparing this corrected first length value with the target length value of the target strip to be prepared, and controlling the traction and cutting mechanisms to perform relevant actions, it can be further ensured that the thickness anomaly is completely removed, ultimately guaranteeing that there are no thickness anomalies on the target strip.

[0056] Similarly, the strip preparation method in this application embodiment is suitable for preparing busbars, which can ensure that the splice portion on the busbar is completely removed, and ultimately ensure that there is no splice portion on the prepared target busbar.

[0057] In some embodiments, the safety value is greater than the length of the region with abnormal thickness.

[0058] With this setup, even if the thickness abnormality is detected by the follow-up detection mechanism and most or even all of the thickness abnormality has passed through the follow-up detection mechanism, the thickness abnormality can still be completely removed.

[0059] In some embodiments, obtaining a first length value of the strip between the free end of the strip and the region of thickness asymmetry includes:

[0060] Obtain the traction stroke of the traction mechanism;

[0061] The first length value is obtained by calculating the sum of the distance between the continuation detection mechanism and the cutting mechanism and the traction stroke of the traction mechanism.

[0062] The first length value is equal to the sum of the distance between the continuation detection mechanism and the cutting mechanism and the traction stroke of the traction mechanism. The distance between the continuation detection mechanism and the cutting mechanism is a known fixed value, while the traction stroke of the traction mechanism can be obtained from the control terminal of the traction mechanism (e.g., a PLC controller). Attached Figure Description

[0063] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the strip preparation apparatus in the embodiments of this application;

[0064] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the connection detection mechanism in an embodiment of this application from one perspective.

[0065] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the connection detection mechanism in an embodiment of this application from another perspective;

[0066] Figure 4 for Figure 3 AA section view;

[0067] Figure 5 for Figure 4 BB cross-sectional view;

[0068] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the traction process of the traction mechanism on the strip.

[0069] Figures 1 to 6 Includes:

[0070] Clamping mechanism 1: First mounting bracket 11, pressure plate 12, pressure block 13, clamping drive module 14;

[0071] Cutting mechanism 2: Second mounting bracket 21, fixed cutter 22, movable cutter 23, cutter drive module 24;

[0072] Traction mechanism 3: translation drive module 31, mounting plate 32, clamping assembly 33;

[0073] Continuing detection mechanism 4: mounting base 41, first roller 42, second roller 43, moving rod 44, elastic element 45, sensor 46, waist hole 47, screw hole 48, guide pressure roller 49, limiting cavity 410, limiting shaft 4110, first seat body 411, second seat body 412. Detailed Implementation

[0074] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features and advantages of this application more apparent and understandable, the application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0075] like Figure 1As shown, the strip preparation apparatus in this embodiment includes a pressing mechanism 1, a cutting mechanism 2, and a traction mechanism 3 arranged sequentially along a first direction (e.g., the X-axis direction), and a continuation detection mechanism 4 disposed before the pressing mechanism 1 or between the pressing mechanism 1 and the cutting mechanism 2, wherein:

[0076] The traction mechanism 3 is configured to grip the free end of the strip from the cutting mechanism 2 and pull the strip away from the cutting mechanism 2 in a first direction through the continuation detection mechanism 4, the clamping mechanism 1 and the cutting mechanism 2.

[0077] The subsequent detection unit 4 is configured to identify areas of abnormal strip thickness.

[0078] The traction mechanism 3 is also configured to pull the abnormal thickness portion of the strip out of the cutting mechanism 2, so that the abnormal thickness portion of the strip is located outside the cutting mechanism 2.

[0079] The cutting mechanism 2 is configured to cut the strip.

[0080] The clamping mechanism is configured to clamp the strip when the cutting mechanism cuts the strip.

[0081] The strip preparation device in this embodiment of the application is provided with a continuation detection mechanism 4. The continuation detection mechanism 4 can automatically detect and locate the thickness abnormal parts on the strip, thereby realizing the rejection of the thickness abnormal parts and preventing them from flowing into the subsequent work station.

[0082] The old and new busbars are joined by lap welding. Therefore, the thickness of the joint is thicker than the thickness of the rest of the busbar. The joint detection mechanism 4 detects the part with abnormal thickness as the joint part. After detecting the part with abnormal thickness, the traction mechanism 3 pulls the part with abnormal thickness of the busbar out of the cutting mechanism 2. Then, the cutting mechanism 2 cuts the busbar, thus removing the part with abnormal thickness of the busbar and preventing it from flowing into the subsequent busbar welding station.

[0083] It is evident that the strip preparation apparatus in this application embodiment is suitable for preparing busbars, ensuring that the splice portion on the busbar is removed, and guaranteeing that there is no splice portion on the prepared target busbar.

[0084] like Figures 2 to 5As shown, optionally, the continuation detection mechanism 4 includes a mounting base 41, a first roller 42, a second roller 43, a moving rod 44, an elastic element 45, and a sensor 46, wherein: the first roller 42 is rotatably mounted on the mounting base 41. The moving rod 44 is slidably mounted on the mounting base 41 along a second direction, and an elastic element 45 is provided between the moving rod 44 and the mounting base 41, wherein the second direction is the thickness direction of the strip. The second roller 43 is rotatably mounted on the first end of the moving rod 44, and the strip passes between the second roller 43 and the first roller 42 along the first direction. Under the pushing of the elastic element 45, the second roller 43 elastically presses the strip against the first roller 42. The sensor 46 is mounted on the mounting base 41. When the moving rod 44 slides away from the first roller 42 along the second direction to the sensing position, the sensor 46 is triggered to generate a sensing signal.

[0085] The strip passes through the second roller 43 and the first roller 42 under the traction of the traction mechanism 3. When the normal part of the strip (i.e., the part other than the part with abnormal thickness) passes between the second roller 43 and the first roller 42, the distance between the second roller 43 and the first roller 42 is equal to the thickness value of the normal part of the strip, and the moving rod 44 deviates from the sensing position.

[0086] When a thicker, abnormal portion of the strip enters between the second roller 43 and the first roller 42, the abnormal portion pushes the second roller 43, thereby causing the moving rod 44 to slide away from the first roller 42 along the second direction to the sensing position, so that the sensor 46 is triggered to generate a sensing signal.

[0087] pass Figures 2 to 5 The continuous inspection mechanism 4 in the middle performs the detection and positioning of areas with abnormal thickness. During the inspection process, there is no need to stop the traction of the strip, so it will not affect the strip preparation efficiency. In addition, when the strip passes through the first roller 42 and the second roller 43, the first roller 42 and the second roller 43 roll under the drive of the strip, so the continuous inspection mechanism 4 will not hinder the traction and conveying of the strip.

[0088] Optional, such as Figure 1As shown, the clamping mechanism 1, cutting mechanism 2, and traction mechanism 3 are arranged sequentially along the horizontal direction (X-axis direction in the figure). The traction mechanism 3 pulls the strip horizontally, causing the strip to pass horizontally between the second roller 43 and the first roller 42. The moving rod 44 is slidably mounted on the mounting base 41 along the vertical direction (Z-axis direction in the figure). That is, the first direction is horizontal, and the second direction is vertical. The second roller 43 is mounted on the lower end of the moving rod 44, and the first roller 42 is located below the second roller 43. The second roller 43 presses the strip downward against the first roller 42. Thus, when an abnormally thick portion of the strip enters between the second roller 43 and the first roller 42, the moving rod 44 slides upward to the sensing position, thereby triggering the sensor 46 to generate a sensing signal.

[0089] Since the thickness of different types of strips can vary significantly, in order to ensure that the splicing inspection mechanism 4 can inspect strips of different thicknesses and achieve compatibility with other splicing inspection mechanisms, such as... Figures 2 to 5 As shown, optionally, the mounting base 41 includes a first base body 411 and a second base body 412, wherein: the second base body 412 is provided with a slotted hole 47 extending in a second direction, and the first base body 411 is provided with a connecting screw hole 48 that mates with the slotted hole 47. The second base body 412 is adjustablely connected to the first base body 411 via bolts passing through the slotted hole 47 and the connecting screw hole 48. A movable rod 44 slides through the second base body 412, and an elastic element 45 is disposed between the movable rod 44 and the second base body 412. Of course, the slotted hole 47 can also be provided on the first base body 411, and the connecting screw hole 48 can be provided on the second base body 412.

[0090] Before inspecting the strip, the installation position of the second seat 412 in the second direction can be adjusted according to the strip thickness to ensure that when the strip passes between the second roller 43 and the first roller 42, the second roller 43 can elastically press the strip against the first roller 42. Specifically, when it is necessary to adjust the installation position of the second seat 412, first loosen the bolts, then push the second seat 412 to slide into place in the second direction, and then re-tighten the bolts.

[0091] Optionally, a limiting part is provided on the moving rod 44. The limiting part may be, for example, a limiting step or a limiting ring protruding from the moving rod 44. The elastic element 45 is a spring, which is sleeved on the moving rod 44. The first end of the spring elastically abuts against the limiting part, and the second end of the spring elastically abuts against the mounting base 1.

[0092] Since the spring is sleeved on the moving rod 44, it can apply the elastic force evenly to the moving rod 44 in the second direction after being compressed, so that the second roller 43 can stably press the strip against the first roller 42, and the moving rod 44 can smoothly slide away from the first roller 42 in the second direction to the sensing position to trigger the sensor 46.

[0093] Continue to refer to Figures 2 to 3 As shown, optionally, the second end (as at the top) of the movable rod 44 extends outward from the mounting base 1, and the sensor 46 is mounted on the mounting base 41 and close to the second end of the movable rod 44. When the movable rod 44 slides to the sensing position, the second end of the movable rod 44 triggers the sensor 6, causing the sensor 6 to generate a sensing signal. Alternatively, a trigger element can be provided on the movable rod 44, and the sensor 46 can be mounted on the mounting base 1 and close to the trigger element. When the movable rod 44 slides to the sensing position, the trigger element triggers the sensor 46, causing the sensor 46 to generate a sensing signal. The trigger element can be, for example, a trigger plate, a trigger block, or other structural components.

[0094] like Figure 5 As shown, optionally, a limiting cavity 410 is provided within the mounting base 41, through which the moving rod 44 passes. A limiting shaft 4110 perpendicular to the moving rod 44 is provided on the moving rod 44, and the limiting shaft 4110 is slidably inserted into the limiting cavity 410. The limiting cavity 410 and the limiting shaft 4110 are used to limit the sliding stroke of the moving rod 44 in the second direction. In this way, excessive pressure from the second roller 43 on the strip can be prevented, which would affect the normal movement of the strip in the first direction.

[0095] like Figures 2 to 3 As shown, optionally, the continuation detection mechanism 4 also includes a guide roller 49 rotatably mounted on the mounting base 41. The guide roller 49 is located after the second roller 43 and is used to limit the strip's movement along the second direction. When the strip is normally conveyed backward along the first direction, the guide roller 49 is higher than the strip and does not contact it. However, when the strip jumps upward, the guide roller limits the jump of the strip to prevent excessive jump amplitude, ultimately ensuring that the strip is stably conveyed backward along the first direction.

[0096] Optionally, sensor 46 can be a proximity sensor or a photoelectric sensor. When a proximity sensor is used, as the moving rod 44 slides away from the first roller 42 along the second direction to the sensing position, the moving rod 44 approaches or contacts the proximity sensor, thereby causing the proximity sensor to generate a sensing signal. When a photoelectric sensor is used, as the moving rod 44 slides away from the first roller 42 along the second direction to the sensing position, the moving rod 44 either blocks or releases the light path of the photoelectric sensor, thereby causing the photoelectric sensor to generate a sensing signal.

[0097] In this embodiment, other types of detection devices, such as dual-sheet detectors, can also be selected as the continuation detection mechanism 4. The receiving end and transmitting end of the dual-sheet detector are spaced apart along the thickness direction of the strip, and the strip passes between the receiving end and transmitting end of the dual-sheet detector. For example, when the traction mechanism 3 pulls the strip in the horizontal direction, the receiving end and transmitting end of the dual-sheet detector are located on the upper and lower sides of the strip.

[0098] The dual-sheet detector can emit different signals when the continuation section of the strip and the rest of the normal section of the strip pass through its receiving and transmitting ends, thereby realizing the detection and location of the thickness abnormality section on the strip.

[0099] like Figure 1 As shown, optionally, the traction mechanism 3 includes a translation drive module 31, a mounting plate 32, and a clamping assembly 33. The mounting plate 32 is connected to a movable part of the translation drive module 31, and the clamping assembly 33 is disposed on the mounting plate 32. The translation drive module 31 is configured to drive the mounting plate 32 to translate along a first direction, thereby causing the clamping assembly 33 to clamp the free end of the strip from the cutting mechanism and to pull the strip away from the cutting mechanism 2.

[0100] The translation drive module 31 can be any existing linear drive module capable of driving the mounting plate 32 to translate in the first direction, such as a synchronous belt drive module or a lead screw drive module. The clamping assembly 33 can be any existing structural component capable of clamping and releasing the free end of the strip, such as a clamp driven by a clamping cylinder.

[0101] like Figure 1 As shown, optionally, the clamping mechanism 1 includes a first mounting bracket 11, a pressure plate 12, a pressure block 13, and a clamping drive module 14, wherein: the pressure plate 12 is fixedly mounted on the first mounting bracket 11. The pressure block 13 is connected to the movable part of the clamping drive module 14, and the strip passes through the space between the pressure block 13 and the pressure plate 12.

[0102] Before the traction mechanism 3 applies traction to the strip, the clamping drive module 14 drives the pressure block 13 to move away from the pressure plate 12, releasing the strip. Before the cutting mechanism 2 cuts the strip, the clamping drive module 14 drives the pressure block 13 towards the pressure plate 12 to clamp the strip. This prevents the strip from retracting after cutting, ensuring that the new free end generated after the strip is cut remains at the cutting mechanism 2, so that the traction mechanism 3 can clamp the free end of the strip from the cutting mechanism 2 and apply traction each time.

[0103] The pressing drive module 14 can be any existing linear drive module that can drive the pressure block 13 toward or away from the pressure plate 12, such as a cylinder drive module, an electric cylinder drive module, etc.

[0104] like Figure 1As shown, optionally, the cutting mechanism 2 includes a second mounting bracket 21, a fixed cutter 22, a movable cutter 23, and a cutter drive module 24, wherein: the fixed cutter 22 is fixedly mounted on the second mounting bracket 21. The movable cutter 23 is connected to the movable part of the cutter drive module 24. The strip passes between the movable cutter 23 and the fixed cutter 22, and the cutter drive module 24 is configured to drive the movable cutter 23 to move toward the fixed cutter 22 to cut the strip.

[0105] The cutter drive module 24 can be any existing linear drive module capable of driving the movable cutter 23 toward or away from the fixed cutter 22, such as a cylinder drive module, an electric cylinder drive module, etc.

[0106] This application also provides a strip preparation method, which can be implemented by the strip preparation apparatus in any of the above embodiments. (In conjunction with...) Figure 6 As shown, the strip preparation method in this application embodiment includes:

[0107] S1. Control the traction mechanism 3 to clamp the free end of the strip 100 from the cutting mechanism 2 and pull the strip.

[0108] S2. When the detection mechanism 4 detects an abnormal thickness area of ​​the strip 100, the first length value of the strip between the free end of the strip and the abnormal thickness area of ​​the strip is obtained.

[0109] like Figure 6 As shown, the first length value is equal to the distance A between the continuation detection mechanism 4 and the cutting mechanism 2 plus the traction stroke X of the traction mechanism 3 on the strip, which can be recorded as the first length value A+X.

[0110] S3. Compare the obtained first length value A+X with the target length value F of the target strip to be prepared, and perform the following processing based on the comparison results.

[0111] Scenario 1: When the first length value A+X is greater than the target length value F, it means that the strip between the free end of the strip and the part of the strip with abnormal thickness is sufficient to prepare a target strip with the target length value F.

[0112] In this case, firstly control the traction mechanism 3 to continue traction of the strip 100. When the total length of the strip 100 pulled out of the cutting mechanism 2 is equal to the target length value F, control the cutting mechanism 2 to cut the strip 100, so as to obtain the target strip with the target length value F, and ensure that there are no abnormal thickness parts on the obtained target strip.

[0113] Subsequently, the control traction mechanism 3 once again clamps the free end of the strip 100 from the cutting mechanism 2 and pulls the strip 100 until the part of the strip 100 with abnormal thickness is pulled out of the cutting mechanism 2. The control cutting mechanism 2 then cuts the strip, thereby removing the part with abnormal thickness.

[0114] Scenario 2: When the first length value A+X is less than or equal to the target length value F, it indicates that the strip between the free end of the strip and the part of the strip with abnormal thickness is insufficient to prepare a target strip with the target length value F.

[0115] In this scenario, the traction mechanism 3 continues to pull the strip 100. When the total length of the strip pulled out of the cutting mechanism 2 is equal to the sum of the first length value A+X and the predetermined length, the cutting mechanism 2 cuts the strip 100. The predetermined length is at least equal to the length of the thickness abnormal portion of the strip 100. This ensures that all thickness abnormal portions on the strip are pulled out of the cutting mechanism 2 before cutting, ultimately eliminating the thickness abnormal portions.

[0116] The strip preparation method provided in this application can automatically detect and locate the thickness abnormality parts on the strip, and remove the thickness abnormality parts, ultimately ensuring that there are no thickness abnormality parts on the prepared target strip.

[0117] Since the new and old busbars are joined by lap welding, the thickness of the joint is greater than that of the rest of the busbar. The thickness abnormality detected by the joint detection mechanism 4 is the joint. Therefore, the strip preparation method in this embodiment is suitable for preparing busbars. After detecting the thickness abnormality, the traction mechanism 3 pulls the thickness abnormality of the busbar out of the cutting mechanism 2, and then the cutting mechanism 2 cuts the busbar, thus removing the thickness abnormality and preventing it from flowing into the subsequent busbar welding station.

[0118] Since the first length value A+X of the strip between the free end of the strip and the part of the strip with abnormal thickness is equal to the distance A between the continuation detection mechanism 4 and the cutting mechanism 2 plus the traction stroke X of the traction mechanism 3 on the strip, optionally, obtaining the first length value of the strip between the free end of the strip and the part of the strip with abnormal thickness in step S2 above includes:

[0119] S21. Obtain the traction stroke X of the traction mechanism 3.

[0120] S22. Calculate the sum of the distance A between the continuation detection mechanism and the cutting mechanism and the traction stroke X of the traction mechanism to obtain the first length value A+X.

[0121] Among them, the distance A between the continuation detection mechanism 4 and the cutting mechanism 2 is a known fixed value, while the traction stroke X of the traction mechanism 3 on the strip can be obtained from the control terminal of the traction mechanism 3 (e.g., the PLC controller that controls the traction mechanism 3 to perform traction).

[0122] Because the thickness abnormality section (such as the continuation section of the busbar) has a certain length along the first direction, when the detection sensitivity of the continuation detection mechanism 4 is high enough and there is no signal transmission delay, the continuation detection mechanism 4 will detect the thickness abnormality section as soon as the starting end of the thickness abnormality section enters the continuation detection mechanism 4. That is, the detected thickness abnormality section is the position of the starting end of the thickness abnormality section.

[0123] In this case, by comparing the first length value A+X of the strip between the free end of the strip and the thickness abnormality part with the target length value F of the target strip to be prepared, and controlling the traction mechanism 3 and the cutting mechanism 2 to perform relevant actions, it can be ensured that the thickness abnormality part is removed and there is no thickness abnormality part on the prepared target strip.

[0124] Of course, in the actual preparation process, there may be situations such as insufficient detection sensitivity of the continuation detection mechanism 4 or signal transmission delay, which may cause part of the thickness abnormality to have already passed through the continuation detection mechanism 4 when it detects the thickness abnormality. That is, the position of the thickness abnormality detected by the continuation detection mechanism 4 is not the starting point of the thickness abnormality, but the middle or even the ending point of the thickness abnormality. In this case, if the first length value A+X of the strip between the free end of the strip and the thickness abnormality is still compared with the target length value F of the target strip to be prepared, and the traction mechanism 3 and the cutting mechanism 2 are controlled to perform related actions, it may not be possible to ensure that the thickness abnormality is completely removed, ultimately resulting in a small number of thickness abnormalities on the prepared target strip.

[0125] To address the aforementioned problems, this application also provides another strip preparation method, which can also be implemented by the strip preparation apparatus in any of the above embodiments. (Combined with...) Figure 6 As shown, another strip preparation method in this application embodiment includes:

[0126] S10. Control the traction mechanism 3 to clamp the free end of the strip 100 from the cutting mechanism 2 and pull the strip.

[0127] S20. When the detection mechanism detects an abnormal thickness area of ​​the strip 100, the first length value of the strip between the free end of the strip and the abnormal thickness area of ​​the strip is obtained.

[0128] like Figure 6As shown, the first length value is equal to the distance A between the continuation detection mechanism 4 and the cutting mechanism 2 plus the traction stroke X of the traction mechanism 3 on the strip, denoted as the first length value A+X.

[0129] S30. Subtract the safety value P from the first length value A+X to obtain the corrected first length value, denoted as the corrected first length value A+XP.

[0130] S40. Compare the obtained modified first length value A+XP with the target length value F of the target strip to be prepared.

[0131] Based on the comparison results, the following actions were taken:

[0132] Scenario 1: When the corrected first length value A+XP is greater than the target length value F, it means that even if the part of the thickness abnormal part that passes through the continuation detection mechanism 4 is removed, the strip between the free end of the strip and the thickness abnormal part of the strip is sufficient to prepare a target strip with the target length value F.

[0133] In this case, firstly control the traction mechanism 3 to continue traction of the strip 100. When the total length of the strip pulled out of the cutting mechanism 2 is equal to the target length value F, control the cutting mechanism 2 to cut the strip 100. This will obtain the target strip with the target length value F and ensure that there are no abnormal thickness areas on the target strip.

[0134] Subsequently, the control traction mechanism 3 once again clamps the free end of the strip 100 from the cutting mechanism 2 and pulls the strip 100 until the part of the strip 100 with abnormal thickness is pulled out of the cutting mechanism 2. The control cutting mechanism 2 then cuts the strip, thereby removing the part with abnormal thickness.

[0135] Scenario 2: When the corrected first length value A+XP is less than or equal to the target length value F, it indicates that the strip between the free end of the strip and the part of the strip with abnormal thickness may not be sufficient to prepare a target strip with the target length value.

[0136] In this scenario, the traction mechanism 3 continues to pull the strip 100. When the total length of the strip pulled out of the cutting mechanism 2 is equal to the sum of the first length value A+X and the predetermined length, the cutting mechanism 2 cuts the strip 100. The predetermined length is at least equal to the length of the thickness abnormality portion. This ensures that all thickness abnormalities on the strip are pulled out of the cutting mechanism 2 before cutting, ultimately eliminating the thickness abnormality portion.

[0137] By correcting the first length value of the strip between the free end of the strip and the thickness abnormality area, and by comparing the corrected first length value with the target length value of the target strip to be prepared, and controlling the traction mechanism 3 and the cutting mechanism 4 to perform related actions, it can be further ensured that the thickness abnormality area is completely removed, and ultimately ensure that there is no thickness abnormality area on the target strip.

[0138] Optionally, in this embodiment, the safety value P is set to be greater than the length of the thickness abnormal part. With this setting, even if the thickness abnormal part has mostly or completely passed through the continuation detection mechanism 4 when it detects the thickness abnormal part, it can still be ensured that this embodiment can remove the thickness abnormal part.

[0139] For example, in busbar manufacturing, the length of the splice portion on the busbar is typically 20mm-50mm, while the safety value P can be set to 30-70mm. In actual production, the safety value setting mainly depends on the actual length of the splice portion on the busbar.

[0140] Similar to the strip preparation method in the previous embodiments, the step S20 above, which involves obtaining the first length value of the strip between the free end of the strip and the region of abnormal strip thickness, includes:

[0141] S201. Obtain the traction stroke X of the traction mechanism 3.

[0142] S202. Calculate the sum of the distance A between the continuation detection mechanism and the cutting mechanism and the traction stroke X of the traction mechanism to obtain the first length value A+X.

[0143] Among them, the distance A between the continuation detection mechanism 4 and the cutting mechanism 2 is a known fixed value, while the traction stroke X of the traction mechanism 3 on the strip can be obtained from the control terminal of the traction mechanism 3 (e.g., the PLC controller that controls the traction mechanism 3 to perform traction).

[0144] The foregoing has provided a sufficiently detailed and specific description of this application. Those skilled in the art should understand that the descriptions in the embodiments are merely exemplary, and all changes made without departing from the true spirit and scope of this application should fall within the protection scope of this application. The scope of protection claimed in this application is defined by the claims, and not by the above descriptions in the embodiments.

Claims

1. A strip preparation apparatus, characterized in that, The strip preparation device includes a pressing mechanism, a cutting mechanism, and a traction mechanism arranged sequentially along a first direction. The strip preparation device also includes a continuation detection mechanism disposed before the pressing mechanism or between the pressing mechanism and the cutting mechanism, wherein: The traction mechanism is configured to grip the free end of the strip from the cutting mechanism and to pull the strip away from the cutting mechanism along the first direction through the continuation detection mechanism, the clamping mechanism and the cutting mechanism; The continuation detection mechanism is configured to identify areas of abnormal thickness in the strip; The traction mechanism is also configured to pull the abnormal thickness portion of the strip out of the cutting mechanism, so that the abnormal thickness portion of the strip is located outside the cutting mechanism; The cutting mechanism is configured to cut strips; The clamping mechanism is configured to clamp the strip when the cutting mechanism cuts the strip.

2. The strip preparation apparatus as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The continuation detection mechanism includes a mounting base, a first roller, a second roller, a moving rod, an elastic element, and a sensor, wherein: The first roller is rotatably mounted on the mounting base; The movable rod is slidably mounted on the mounting base along the second direction, and the elastic element is provided between the movable rod and the mounting base, wherein the second direction is the thickness direction of the strip; The second roller is rotatably mounted on the first end of the movable rod, and the strip passes between the second roller and the first roller along the first direction. Under the pushing of the elastic member, the second roller elastically presses the strip against the first roller. The sensor is mounted on the mounting base. When the moving rod slides away from the first roller along the second direction to the sensing position, the sensor is triggered to generate a sensing signal.

3. The strip preparation apparatus as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The mounting base includes a first base body and a second base body, wherein: One of the first base body and the second base body is provided with a waist hole extending along the second direction, and the other of the first base body and the second base body is provided with a connecting screw hole that mates with the waist hole. The second base body is connected to the first base body in an adjustable position via a bolt that passes through the waist hole and the connecting screw hole. The movable rod is slidably connected to the second seat body, and the elastic element is disposed between the movable rod and the second seat body.

4. The strip preparation apparatus as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The second end of the movable rod extends outward from the mounting base. The sensor is mounted on the mounting base and close to the second end of the movable rod. When the movable rod slides to the sensing position, the second end of the movable rod triggers the sensor. Alternatively, the movable rod is provided with a trigger element, and the sensor is mounted on the mounting base and close to the trigger element. When the movable rod slides to the sensing position, the trigger element triggers the sensor.

5. The strip preparation apparatus as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The sensor is a proximity sensor or a photoelectric sensor.

6. The strip preparation apparatus as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The splicing detection mechanism is a dual-sheet detector, with the receiving end and transmitting end of the dual-sheet detector spaced apart along the thickness direction of the strip, and the strip passing between the receiving end and transmitting end of the dual-sheet detector.

7. The strip preparation apparatus as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The traction mechanism includes a translation drive module, a mounting plate, and a clamping assembly, wherein the mounting plate is connected to the movable part of the translation drive module, and the clamping assembly is disposed on the mounting plate; The translation drive module is configured to drive the mounting plate to translate along the first direction, thereby causing the gripping assembly to grip the free end of the strip from the cutting mechanism and to pull the strip away from the cutting mechanism.

8. The strip preparation apparatus as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The clamping mechanism includes a first mounting bracket, a pressure plate, a pressure block, and a clamping drive module, wherein: The pressure plate is fixedly installed on the first mounting bracket; The pressure block is connected to the movable part of the clamping drive module; The strip passes between the pressure block and the pressure plate, and the clamping drive module is configured to drive the pressure block to move toward or away from the pressure plate to clamp or release the strip.

9. The strip preparation apparatus as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The cutting mechanism includes a second mounting bracket, a fixed cutter, a movable cutter, and a cutter drive module, wherein: The fixed cutter is fixedly mounted on the second mounting bracket; The movable cutter is connected to the movable part of the cutter drive module; The strip passes between the movable cutter and the fixed cutter, and the cutter drive module is configured to drive the movable cutter toward the fixed cutter to cut the strip.

10. A method for preparing a strip, characterized in that, The strip preparation method is performed by the strip preparation apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, and the strip preparation method includes: The traction mechanism is controlled to grip the free end of the strip from the cutting mechanism and pull the strip. When the splicing detection mechanism detects an abnormal thickness area of ​​the strip, it acquires a first length value of the strip between the free end of the strip and the abnormal thickness area. Compare the obtained first length value with the target length value of the target strip to be prepared; Based on the comparison results, the following actions were taken: When the first length value is greater than the target length value: The traction mechanism is controlled to continue traction of the strip. When the total length of the strip pulled out of the cutting mechanism is equal to the target length value, the cutting mechanism is controlled to cut the strip to obtain the target strip. Control the traction mechanism to grip the free end of the strip again from the cutting mechanism and pull the strip until the part of the strip with abnormal thickness is pulled out of the cutting mechanism, and control the cutting mechanism to cut the strip; When the first length value is less than or equal to the target length value: The traction mechanism is controlled to continue traction of the strip. When the total length of the strip pulled out of the cutting mechanism is equal to the sum of the first length value and the predetermined length, the cutting mechanism is controlled to cut the strip, wherein the predetermined length is at least equal to the length of the abnormal thickness portion of the strip.

11. The strip preparation method according to claim 10, characterized in that, Obtaining the first length value of the strip between the free end of the strip and the portion of the strip with abnormal thickness includes: Obtain the traction stroke of the traction mechanism; The first length value is obtained by calculating the sum of the distance between the continuation detection mechanism and the cutting mechanism and the traction stroke X of the traction mechanism.

12. A method for preparing a strip, characterized in that, The strip preparation method is performed by the strip preparation apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, and the strip preparation method includes: The traction mechanism is controlled to grip the free end of the strip from the cutting mechanism and pull the strip. When the splicing detection mechanism detects an abnormal thickness area of ​​the strip, it acquires a first length value of the strip between the free end of the strip and the abnormal thickness area. Subtract the safety value from the first length value to obtain the corrected first length value; The obtained modified first length value is compared with the target length value of the target strip to be prepared; Based on the comparison results, the following actions were taken: When the corrected first length value is greater than the target length value: The traction mechanism is controlled to continue traction of the strip. When the total length of the strip pulled out of the cutting mechanism is equal to the target length value, the cutting mechanism is controlled to cut the strip to obtain the target strip. Control the traction mechanism to once again grip the free end of the strip from the cutting mechanism and pull the strip until the abnormal thickness part on the strip is pulled out of the cutting mechanism, and control the cutting mechanism to cut the strip; When the corrected first length value is less than or equal to the target length value: The traction mechanism is controlled to continue traction of the strip. When the total length of the strip pulled out of the cutting mechanism is equal to the sum of the first length value and the predetermined length, the cutting mechanism is controlled to cut the strip, wherein the predetermined length is at least equal to the length of the thickness abnormality part.

13. The strip preparation method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The safety value is greater than the length of the part with abnormal thickness.

14. The strip preparation method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The step of obtaining the first length value of the strip between the free end of the strip and the thickness anomaly region includes: Obtain the traction stroke of the traction mechanism; The first length value is obtained by calculating the sum of the distance between the continuation detection mechanism and the cutting mechanism and the traction stroke of the traction mechanism.

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