Cover body assembly, vertical continuous graphitization furnace equipment and positive and negative electrode spacing regulation and control method

Abstract

The invention discloses a cover body assembly, vertical continuous graphitization furnace equipment and a positive and negative electrode spacing regulation and control method, the cover body assembly comprises a cover body, the cover body is configured to cover the top opening end of a furnace body of the graphitization furnace equipment, the middle of the cover body is configured to allow a positive electrode of the graphitization furnace equipment to penetrate through in a vertical position adjustable mode, and the middle of the cover body is configured to allow the positive electrode to penetrate through in a vertical position adjustable mode. The cover has a transparent region. The distance measuring assembly comprises a rotating module and a laser distance sensor, the rotating module is installed on the outer wall of the cover body, the laser distance sensor is installed at the output end of the rotating module, and the rotating module is used for driving the laser distance sensor to rotate so that a distance measuring port of the laser distance sensor can face the transparent area in an up-down angle adjustable mode. And the laser distance sensor can emit light rays at different angles to the side wall of the positive electrode and the lowest point of the side wall under the driving of the rotating module. According to the invention, the distance between the positive electrode and the negative electrode can be measured, and the distance can be adjusted accordingly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of vertical continuous graphitization furnace technology, and in particular to cover assembly, vertical continuous graphitization furnace equipment, and method for adjusting the distance between positive and negative electrodes. Background Technology

[0002] The vertical continuous graphitization furnace used for processing artificial graphite anode materials is the most critical equipment in the battery anode material production process. The graphitization process is an important step that affects the quality of anode materials, and the distance between the positive electrode and the negative electrode is a key production parameter.

[0003] The spacing between the positive and negative electrodes affects the temperature field distribution within the furnace. If the electrode spacing is too large, it may lead to uneven heating, resulting in higher temperatures near the electrodes and lower temperatures further away, thus affecting the consistency of the graphitization process and the performance of the final product. An excessively large electrode spacing also increases resistance, leading to greater energy loss during heating, which is detrimental to energy conservation and consumption reduction. Conversely, if the spacing is too small, it may cause localized overheating or short-circuit risks, similarly hindering energy conservation and consumption reduction.

[0004] A well-planned electrode spacing can accelerate the process of reaching the required temperature and shorten the overall graphitization cycle time. The optimal configuration can be determined based on the specific material properties and target process conditions. For some sensitive materials, even slight temperature differences can alter their physicochemical properties. Therefore, precisely controlling the electrode spacing to ensure a constant and suitable heating environment is a key factor in ensuring high-quality finished products.

[0005] In addition, improper electrode spacing settings may also pose safety hazards to the equipment. For example, components that are exposed to high temperatures for a long time are more prone to damage, increasing maintenance costs and frequency.

[0006] Therefore, the adjustment of electrode spacing is crucial for vertical continuous graphitization furnace equipment. Traditional vertical continuous graphitization furnace equipment lacks the function of measuring the distance between positive and negative electrodes, thus preventing spacing adjustment based on actual distances and instead relying on production results. Furthermore, the traditional method of electrode spacing adjustment involves manual adjustment using a crane, which is difficult to control precisely, allowing only approximate adjustments and inaccurate measurement of the adjusted distance. Moreover, the operation is complex and unsafe. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The purpose of this application is to provide a cover assembly, a vertical continuous graphitization furnace device, and a method for adjusting the distance between positive and negative electrodes, which can solve at least one of the technical problems mentioned in the background art.

[0008] To achieve the above objectives, the cover assembly of the vertical continuous graphitization furnace equipment provided in this application includes: A cover body is configured to cover the top opening of the furnace body of the graphitization furnace equipment, the middle part of the cover body is configured to allow the positive electrode of the graphitization furnace equipment to be vertically inserted in an adjustable manner, and the cover body has a transparent area. The ranging component includes a rotating module and a laser distance sensor. The rotating module is mounted on the outer wall of the cover, and the laser distance sensor is mounted on the output end of the rotating module. The rotating module is used to drive the laser distance sensor to rotate so that its ranging port is adjustable up and down towards the transparent area. Driven by the rotating module, the laser distance sensor can emit light at different angles to the side wall of the positive electrode and can reach the lowest point of the side wall.

[0009] In this embodiment, the cover assembly includes a ranging component, which comprises a rotating module and a laser distance sensor. The rotating module is mounted on the outer wall of the cover, and the laser distance sensor is mounted on the output end of the rotating module. The rotating module drives the laser distance sensor to rotate so that its ranging port can be adjusted vertically towards the transparent area. Driven by the rotating module, the laser distance sensor can emit light at different angles to the sidewall of the positive electrode, including the lowest point of the sidewall. Since the laser distance sensor can reach the lowest point of the sidewall of the positive electrode, the vertical distance between the laser distance sensor and the lowest point of the sidewall of the positive electrode (the lower surface of the positive electrode) can be calculated based on the distance data between the laser distance sensor and the lowest point of the sidewall of the positive electrode. Based on this vertical distance (which can be converted into the actual distance between the positive and negative electrodes), the vertical position of the positive electrode can be adjusted. Therefore, this embodiment can measure the distance between the positive and negative electrodes (including distance data that can be converted into the distance between the positive and negative electrodes), and thus adjust the distance accordingly.

[0010] Optionally, the rotating module includes a first servo motor, which is equipped with a first encoder. The first servo motor is mounted on the outer wall of the cover via a motor mounting bracket. A sensor mounting bracket is mounted on the shaft of the first servo motor. The laser distance sensor is mounted on the sensor mounting bracket. When the shaft of the first servo motor rotates, it drives the laser distance sensor to rotate up and down so that the vertical angle of the ranging port is adjustable. The first servo motor and the first encoder are configured to communicate with the control system.

[0011] Optionally, the laser emission point of the ranging port is located on the motor axis of the first servo motor.

[0012] To achieve the above objectives, the vertical continuous graphitization furnace equipment provided in this application includes: a cover assembly, a furnace body, a negative electrode, a positive electrode, a positive electrode drive assembly, and a control system as described above. The cover is provided over the top opening of the furnace body; The negative electrode is disposed at the bottom of the furnace cavity of the furnace body, and the positive electrode is disposed vertically in the furnace cavity with adjustable height. The negative electrode has a horizontal upper surface, and the positive electrode has a horizontal lower surface, with the lower surface of the positive electrode facing the upper surface of the negative electrode. A positive electrode driving component, wherein the output terminal of the positive electrode driving component is connected to the positive electrode to drive the positive electrode to rise and fall; The control system is communicatively connected to the rotating module, the laser distance sensor, and the positive electrode driving assembly. The control system is configured to: control the rotating module to adjust the vertical angle of the ranging port and receive position information fed back by the rotating module; control the laser distance sensor to perform ranging operations and control the positive electrode driving assembly to drive the positive electrode to rise and fall based on the distance data between the laser distance sensor and the lowest point of the sidewall of the positive electrode.

[0013] In this embodiment, the control system can control the rotating module to adjust the vertical angle of the ranging port and receive position information fed back by the rotating module. It also controls the laser distance sensor to perform ranging operations and controls the positive electrode drive assembly to move the positive electrode up and down based on the distance data measured by the laser distance sensor between the laser distance sensor and the lowest point of the sidewall of the positive electrode. Therefore, this embodiment can measure the distance between the positive and negative electrodes (including distance data that can be converted into a positive-negative electrode distance), and can directly control the positive electrode drive assembly to move the positive electrode vertically based on the measured distance data. Compared to the prior art where a crane is used to manually adjust the distance between the positive and negative electrodes, this application can achieve more precise distance adjustment, and the adjustment process can be performed without human intervention, eliminating the complexity and safety risks of manual operation.

[0014] Optionally, the positive electrode driving assembly includes a second servo motor, which is equipped with a second encoder. The second servo motor is connected to a winding shaft, on which a lifting rope is wound. The outlet end of the lifting rope is connected to the upper end of the positive electrode to suspend the positive electrode. The second servo motor and the second encoder are communicatively connected to the control system. Under the control of the control system, the second servo motor drives the winding shaft to rotate forward to wind the lifting rope upward, thereby causing the positive electrode to move vertically upward, or rotates in the opposite direction to release the lifting rope downward, thereby causing the positive electrode to move vertically downward.

[0015] Optionally, the positive electrode is in the shape of a cylindrical rod.

[0016] To achieve the above objectives, the method for adjusting the distance between the positive and negative electrodes provided in this application is based on the vertical continuous graphitization furnace equipment described above, and the method includes: The rotating module, under the control of the control system, drives the laser distance sensor to rotate upward from an initial angle, causing the light emitted by the laser distance sensor to gradually swing upward, and after hitting the lowest point of the side wall of the positive electrode, it gradually moves upward along the side wall of the positive electrode. The control system acquires and records in real time the distance data measured by the laser distance sensor during its upward rotation, as well as the position information fed back by the rotating module in real time, with each distance data and the position information corresponding to time. When the control system confirms that the distance data acquired in real time is continuously and gradually decreasing, it controls the rotating module to rotate into position and stay there according to the position information corresponding to the starting distance data in the continuously and gradually decreasing distance data. The laser distance sensor measures distance while stationary; The control system acquires the current distance data measured by the laser distance sensor and the second angle at which the laser distance sensor is currently located, and calculates the first vertical distance between the laser emission point of the laser distance sensor and the lower surface of the positive electrode based on the current distance data and the second angle. The second angle is the angle between the laser distance sensor and the horizontal position or the vertical position. The control system controls the positive electrode driving component to move the positive electrode vertically based on the first distance.

[0017] The embodiments of this application can measure the distance between positive and negative electrodes (including distance data that can be converted into the distance between positive and negative electrodes), and can directly control the positive electrode driving component to drive the positive electrode to move vertically based on the obtained vertical distance data. Compared with the prior art, which uses a crane to manually adjust the distance between the positive and negative electrodes, this application can achieve more precise distance adjustment, and the adjustment process can be carried out without human intervention, without the complexity and safety of manual operation.

[0018] Optionally, the laser distance sensor is located in the vertical position at the initial angle.

[0019] To achieve the above objectives, the method for adjusting the distance between the positive and negative electrodes provided in this application is based on the vertical continuous graphitization furnace equipment described above, and the method includes: The rotating module, under the control of the control system, drives the laser distance sensor to rotate downward from an initial angle, so that the light emitted by the laser distance sensor hits the side wall of the positive electrode and gradually swings downward. The control system acquires and records in real time the distance data measured by the laser distance sensor during its downward rotation, as well as the position information fed back by the rotating module in real time. Each distance data and the position information correspond to each other in time. When the control system confirms that the distance data acquired in real time has been continuously and gradually increasing before a jump occurs, it controls the rotating module to rotate into position and stay there according to the position information corresponding to the last distance data before the jump. The laser distance sensor measures distance while stationary; The control system acquires the current distance data measured by the laser distance sensor and the second angle at which the laser distance sensor is currently located, and calculates the first vertical distance between the laser emission point of the laser distance sensor and the lower surface of the positive electrode based on the current distance data and the second angle. The second angle is the angle between the laser distance sensor and the horizontal position or the vertical position. The control system controls the positive electrode driving component to move the positive electrode vertically based on the first distance.

[0020] The embodiments of this application can measure the distance between positive and negative electrodes (including distance data that can be converted into the distance between positive and negative electrodes), and can directly control the positive electrode driving component to drive the positive electrode to move vertically based on the obtained vertical distance data. Compared with the prior art, which uses a crane to manually adjust the distance between the positive and negative electrodes, this application can achieve more precise distance adjustment, and the adjustment process can be carried out without human intervention, without the complexity and safety of manual operation.

[0021] Optionally, the laser distance sensor is located in the horizontal position at the initial angle. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a vertical continuous graphitization furnace according to an embodiment of this application.

[0023] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing the positive electrode driving component hidden.

[0024] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the assembly relationship between the rotating module and the laser distance sensor in an embodiment of this application.

[0025] Figure 4This is a schematic diagram of the control relationship in the embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0026] To illustrate the technical content and structural features of this application in detail, the following description is provided in conjunction with the embodiments and accompanying drawings.

[0027] Please see Figures 1 to 4 This application discloses a vertical continuous graphitization furnace. The vertical continuous graphitization furnace includes: a cover assembly, a furnace body 2, a negative electrode 31, a positive electrode 32, a positive electrode drive assembly 4, and a control system 5. The cover assembly includes a cover 1, which covers the top opening of the furnace body 2. The middle of the cover 1 is configured to allow the positive electrode 32 to be vertically positioned adjustablely. The negative electrode 31 is located at the bottom of the furnace cavity 21 of the furnace body 2. The positive electrode 32 is vertically height-adjustable within the furnace cavity 21 (normally, part of the positive electrode 32 is located outside the cover 1). The negative electrode 31 has a horizontal upper surface 311, and the positive electrode 32 has a horizontal lower surface 321, with the lower surface 321 of the positive electrode 32 facing the upper surface 311 of the negative electrode 31. The output end of the positive electrode drive assembly 4 is connected to the positive electrode 32 to drive the positive electrode 32 to move up and down.

[0028] Specifically, the furnace body 2 is cylindrical in shape, and the positive electrode 32 is located in the middle of the furnace cavity 21.

[0029] Example 1 Please see Figures 1 to 4 In this embodiment, the cover assembly includes a cover 1 and a ranging assembly 6.

[0030] The cover 1 has a transparent area 12. It should be explained that the cover 1 can be partially transparent or entirely transparent, and there is no limitation on this, as long as it can meet the ranging requirements of the laser distance sensor: it can rotatably and continuously measure the side wall 322 of the positive electrode 32, and the lowest point of the side wall 322 of the positive electrode 32 is covered within the continuous ranging range.

[0031] The ranging component 6 includes a rotating module 61 and a laser distance sensor 62. The rotating module 61 is installed on the outer wall of the cover 1, and the laser distance sensor 62 is installed at the output end of the rotating module 61. The rotating module 61 is used to drive the laser distance sensor 62 to rotate so that its ranging port 621 (the position for emitting and receiving light) is adjustable up and down towards the transparent area 12 (satisfying the aforementioned conditions). Driven by the rotating module, the laser distance sensor 62 can emit light at different angles to the side wall 322 of the positive electrode 32 and can reach the lowest point of the side wall 322 (through the transparent area 12).

[0032] Since the laser distance sensor 62 can reach the lowest point of the side wall 322 of the positive electrode 32, the vertical distance between the laser distance sensor 62 and the lowest point of the side wall 322 of the positive electrode 32 (the lower surface 321 of the positive electrode 32) can be calculated based on the distance data between the laser distance sensor 62 and the lowest point of the side wall 322 of the positive electrode 32. The vertical position of the positive electrode 32 can then be adjusted based on this vertical distance (which can be converted into the actual distance between the positive electrode 32 and the negative electrode 31). Thus, the embodiments of this application can realize the measurement of the distance between the positive and negative electrodes (including the distance data that can be converted into the distance between the positive and negative electrodes), and the distance can be adjusted accordingly.

[0033] It should be noted that after measuring the distance data between the laser distance sensor 62 and the lowest point of the side wall 322 of the positive electrode 32 (the lower surface 321 of the positive electrode 32), the angle between the ranging port 621 and the horizontal or vertical position at that instant can be obtained based on the position information fed back by the rotating module 61 when the distance data is measured (the initial angle of the ranging port 621 when the laser distance sensor 62 starts ranging is known, and the angle can be calculated by combining the initial position information fed back by the rotating module 61 when the laser distance sensor 62 starts ranging and the position information fed back by the rotating module 61 at the instant mentioned above. The initial angle can be selected as, but is not limited to, a zero-degree angle with the horizontal or vertical position). After obtaining the angle value, the first vertical distance between the lower surface 321 of the positive electrode 32 and the laser emission point can be calculated using a sine or cosine function based on the distance data and the angle value. Since the second vertical distance between the laser emission point and the upper surface 311 of the negative electrode 31 is predetermined, the actual distance between the positive electrode 32 and the negative electrode 31 (i.e., the actual distance between the lower surface 321 and the upper surface 311) can be obtained by subtracting the second distance from the first distance. Of course, after obtaining the first distance, it is not necessary to further calculate the actual distance; it is also possible to directly determine whether to adjust the distance based on the first distance.

[0034] Optionally, the rotating module 61 includes a first servo motor 611, which is equipped with a first encoder 612. The first servo motor 611 is mounted on the outer wall of the cover 1 via a motor mounting bracket 613. A sensor mounting bracket 614 is mounted on the rotating shaft 6111 of the first servo motor 611. A laser distance sensor 62 is mounted on the sensor mounting bracket 614. When the rotating shaft 6111 of the first servo motor 611 rotates, it drives the laser distance sensor 62 to rotate up and down, making the vertical angle of the ranging port 621 adjustable. The first servo motor 611 and the first encoder 612 are communicatively connected to the control system 5. The control system 5 controls the rotation of the rotating shaft 6111 of the first servo motor 611 and receives the position information fed back in real time by the first encoder 612. By using a servo motor equipped with an encoder to drive the laser distance sensor 62, the high-precision position control function can ensure the high-precision adjustment of the angle of the laser distance sensor 62, realizing closed-loop feedback adjustment.

[0035] Specifically, the rotation angle of the laser distance sensor 62 is consistent with the rotation angle of the rotating shaft 6111, that is, for every degree the rotating shaft 6111 rotates, the laser distance sensor 62 rotates by the same angle.

[0036] Specifically, the control system 5 calculates the number of pulses required for the first servo motor 611 to travel based on the electronic gear ratio of the first servo motor 611 and the speed ratio of the reducer.

[0037] Specifically, the laser emission point of the ranging port 621 is located on the motor axis of the first servo motor 611. This setting ensures that the height of the laser emission point remains essentially constant as the laser distance sensor 62 rotates up and down, only its orientation changes, which is beneficial for calculating an accurate first distance (the vertical distance between the lower surface 321 of the positive electrode 32 and the laser emission point).

[0038] Preferably, the shaft 6111 of the first servo motor 611 is arranged in a horizontal direction.

[0039] Specifically, an overtravel sensor can be installed near the shaft 6111 of the first servo motor 611 to protect the first servo motor 611 from overtravel.

[0040] Example 2 Please combine Figures 1 to 4In this embodiment, the vertical continuous graphitization furnace equipment includes the cover assembly as described above. Its control system 5 is communicatively connected to the rotating module 61, the laser distance sensor 62, and the positive electrode drive assembly 4. The control system 5 is configured to: control the rotating module 61 to adjust the vertical angle of the ranging port 621 and receive the position information fed back by the rotating module 61; control the laser distance sensor 62 to perform ranging operation and control the positive electrode drive assembly 4 to drive the positive electrode 32 to rise and fall based on the distance data between the laser distance sensor 62 and the lowest point of the side wall 322 of the positive electrode 32.

[0041] Therefore, the vertical continuous graphitization furnace equipment in this embodiment can measure the distance between the positive and negative electrodes (including distance data that can be converted into the distance between the positive and negative electrodes), and can directly control the positive electrode drive component 4 to drive the positive electrode 32 to move vertically based on the measured vertical distance data. Compared with the prior art, which uses a crane to manually adjust the distance between the positive electrode 32 and the negative electrode 31, this application can achieve more precise distance adjustment, and the adjustment process can be carried out without human intervention, without the complexity and safety of manual operation.

[0042] In some embodiments, the positive electrode drive assembly 4 includes a second servo motor 41 equipped with a second encoder 42. The second servo motor 41 is connected to a winding shaft 43, on which a lifting rope 44 (such as a steel wire rope) is wound. The outlet end of the lifting rope 44 is connected to the upper end of the positive electrode 32 to suspend it. The second servo motor 41 and the second encoder 42 are communicatively connected to a control system 5. Under the control of the control system 5, the second servo motor 41 drives the winding shaft 43 to rotate forward to wind the lifting rope 44 upward, thereby causing the positive electrode 32 to move vertically upward, or rotates in the opposite direction to release the lifting rope 44 downward, thereby causing the positive electrode 32 to move vertically downward. By using a servo motor equipped with an encoder to drive the positive electrode 32, high-precision position control can be achieved, ensuring high-precision adjustment of the distance between the positive electrode 32 and the negative electrode 31, thus realizing closed-loop feedback adjustment.

[0043] Specifically, a limit position sensor 45 can be installed near the rope winding shaft 43.

[0044] Of course, the positive electrode drive component 4 is not limited to using a servo motor, as long as it can drive the positive electrode 32 to move accurately vertically under the control of the control system 5.

[0045] In some embodiments, the positive electrode 32 is in the shape of a cylindrical rod.

[0046] In some implementations, the control system 5 includes an industrial PC (host computer) and a PLC that communicate with each other. The control process for adjusting the distance between electrodes can be mainly controlled by the PLC, while the industrial PC can perform parameter settings, etc. Of course, this distinction is not strictly made.

[0047] Example 3 This embodiment discloses a method for adjusting the distance between positive and negative electrodes, implemented based on the vertical continuous graphitization furnace equipment described above. The method includes: S11, the rotating module 61 drives the laser distance sensor 62 to rotate upward from the initial angle based on the control of the control system 5, so that the light emitted by the laser distance sensor 62 gradually swings upward, and after hitting the lowest point of the side wall 322 of the positive electrode 32, it gradually moves upward along the side wall 322 of the positive electrode 32.

[0048] It should be noted that the initial angle is the angle between the laser distance sensor 62 and the horizontal or vertical position. This refers to the angle at which the laser distance sensor 62 begins its ranging operation. If the laser distance sensor 62 is not at the initial angle when preparing to perform the ranging operation, it can be adjusted to the initial angle first. The horizontal position is when the laser distance sensor 62 rotates to a position with a 0-degree angle to the horizontal plane. At this position, the light emitted by the laser distance sensor 62 is horizontal, pointing towards the positive electrode sidewall 322. The vertical position is when the laser distance sensor 62 rotates to a position with a 90-degree angle to the horizontal plane. At this position, the light emitted by the laser distance sensor 62 is vertical (downward). Of course, this is only to clarify the horizontal and vertical positions; the laser distance sensor 62 will not necessarily rotate to the horizontal / vertical position during actual operation.

[0049] Specifically, at the initial angle, the laser distance sensor 62 is in a vertical position, meaning the initial angle is 90 degrees from the horizontal position or 0 degrees from the vertical position. However, it is not limited to the laser distance sensor 62 being in a vertical position; it is only necessary to ensure that, under normal circumstances, the light emitted by the laser distance sensor 62 at the initial angle needs to swing upwards to illuminate the lowest point of the side wall 322 of the positive electrode 32.

[0050] S12, the control system 5 acquires and records in real time the distance data measured by the laser distance sensor 62 during the upward rotation process and the position information fed back in real time by the rotating module 61, and the distance data and position information correspond to each other according to time.

[0051] S13, when the control system 5 confirms that the distance data acquired in real time is continuously and gradually decreasing, it controls the rotating module 61 to rotate into position and stay there according to the position information corresponding to the starting distance data in the continuously and gradually decreasing distance data, so that the rotating shaft 6111 of the rotating module 61 returns to the position where it was when the starting distance data was measured.

[0052] The illumination point of the laser distance sensor 62 swings upward along the side wall 322 of the positive electrode 32, causing the measured distance data to gradually decrease continuously. Therefore, when several gradually decreasing distance data are obtained, it indicates that the light is swinging upward and illuminating the side wall 322 of the positive electrode 32. Since the light has not yet illuminated the side wall 322 of the positive electrode 32 at the initial angle, it means that the light has already illuminated the lowest point of the side wall 322 of the positive electrode 32 during the upward swing. The starting distance data in each gradually decreasing distance data is the distance data between the laser distance sensor 62 and the lowest point of the side wall 322 of the positive electrode 32. Therefore, the laser distance sensor 62 can be returned to the corresponding position and the distance measurement can be performed in a stationary state to obtain more accurate distance data.

[0053] Specifically, the control system 5 confirms that the distance data acquired in real time is continuously and gradually decreasing. This confirmation can be based on the acquisition of a set number of distance data that are continuously and gradually decreasing, or it can be based on the distance data being continuously and gradually decreasing for a set time.

[0054] S14, the laser distance sensor 62 performs distance measurement while stationary.

[0055] S15, the control system 5 acquires the current distance data (the distance data measured in the above-mentioned stationary state) measured by the laser distance sensor 62 and the second angle at which the laser distance sensor 62 is currently located, and calculates the first vertical distance between the laser emission point of the laser distance sensor 62 and the lower surface 321 of the positive electrode 32 (i.e. the lowest point of the side wall 322 of the positive electrode 32) based on the current distance data and the second angle. The second angle is the angle between the laser distance sensor 62 and the horizontal or vertical position.

[0056] Given the initial angle, the second angle can be calculated by combining the initial position information fed back by the rotating module 61 from the laser distance sensor 62 at the initial angle and the position information fed back by the rotating module 61 in the stationary state. After obtaining the value of the second angle, the first vertical distance between the lower surface 321 of the positive electrode 32 and the laser emission point can be calculated using a sine or cosine function based on the current distance data and the second angle.

[0057] S16, the control system 5 controls the positive electrode drive component 4 based on the first distance to make the positive electrode 32 move vertically.

[0058] After obtaining the first distance, the control system 5 can calculate the actual distance between the positive electrode 32 and the negative electrode 31 based on the first distance and the second vertical distance between the laser emission point of the laser distance sensor 62 and the upper surface 311 of the negative electrode 31. Then, the control system 5 can control the drive component to move the positive electrode 32 vertically based on the actual distance and the set distance. Specifically, it controls the positive electrode 32 to move up or down a corresponding distance according to the difference between the actual distance and the set distance. Of course, it is not necessary to calculate the actual distance; the position of the positive electrode 32 can also be adjusted directly based on the first distance and the corresponding set distance.

[0059] This embodiment can measure the distance between the positive and negative electrodes (including distance data that can be converted into the distance between the positive and negative electrodes), and can directly control the positive electrode drive component 4 to drive the positive electrode 32 to move vertically based on the measured vertical distance data. Compared with the prior art, which uses a crane to manually adjust the distance between the positive electrode 32 and the negative electrode 31, this application can achieve more precise distance adjustment, and the adjustment process can be carried out without human intervention, without the complexity and safety of manual operation.

[0060] In some embodiments, after the control system 5 controls the positive electrode drive component 4 to move the positive electrode 32 vertically based on the first distance, the method further includes: repeating steps S11 to S15 and confirming whether the latest obtained first distance or actual distance meets the set requirements. This operation is used to determine whether the distance adjustment meets the standard. If the latest obtained actual distance or first distance does not meet the set requirements, it is considered that the distance after adjustment is still substandard, and an alarm signal can be output.

[0061] To better understand this application, the process of adjusting the distance between the positive and negative electrodes is described below based on a specific example: First, the control system 5 initiates distance measurement and detection.

[0062] Next, driven by the first servo motor 611, the laser distance sensor 62 is quickly rotated to a vertical position, which can be recorded as a 0-degree position.

[0063] Next, after confirming that the laser distance sensor 62 is at the 0-degree position based on the position information received from the first encoder 612, the control system 5 issues a distance measurement command, causing the first servo motor 611 to slowly lift the laser distance sensor 62 upwards for distance measurement. The light emitted by the laser distance sensor 62 first hits the lowest point of the side wall 322 of the positive electrode 32. As the laser distance sensor 62 lifts upwards, the illumination point of the light gradually moves upwards along the side wall 322 of the positive electrode 32, and the measured distance data continuously and gradually decreases. Once it is confirmed that the distance data is continuously and gradually decreasing, the laser distance sensor 62 can be stopped from swinging upwards. The control system 5 records the corresponding position information fed back by the first encoder 612 when the laser distance sensor 62 measures each distance data.

[0064] Next, the control system 5 controls the rotating module 61 to rotate to its designated position and stop according to the position information corresponding to the initial distance data in each progressively decreasing distance data set. Simultaneously, the laser distance sensor 62 rotates, at which point it measures the current distance data L (i.e., the maximum distance between the laser emission point and the positive electrode 32). Furthermore, the control system 5 can calculate the angle θ between the laser distance sensor 62 and the vertical position. Given the current distance data L and the angle θ, the first vertical distance d between the lower surface 321 of the positive electrode 32 and the laser emission point can be calculated. Since the second vertical distance d0 between the laser emission point and the upper surface 311 of the negative electrode 31 is predetermined, the actual distance d1 between the positive electrode 32 and the negative electrode 31 is calculated using the following formula.

[0065] d1=d0-d=d0-L*cosθ Next, the control system 5 calculates the distance d3 that the positive electrode 32 should move vertically using the actual distance d1 and the set distance d2, where d3 = d2 - d1.

[0066] If d3>0, the control system 5 sends a running pulse to control the second servo motor 41 to rotate forward, and the positive electrode 32 follows the lifting rope 44 to move upward a distance d3.

[0067] If d3 < 0, the control system 5 sends a running pulse to control the second servo motor 41 to reverse, and the positive electrode 32 follows the lifting rope 44 to move downward by a distance |d3|.

[0068] If the actual distance d3=0, the control system 5 does not need to send a running pulse.

[0069] Specifically, the second servo motor 41, by setting an electronic gear ratio, can rotate by 0.5 mm for each pulse received, corresponding to a movement of the positive electrode 32. Furthermore, the laser distance sensor 62 has a resolution of 0.5 mm. Under these conditions, the adjustment error of the distance between the positive electrode 32 and the negative electrode 31 can be controlled at the millimeter level, significantly improving adjustment accuracy.

[0070] After the positive electrode 32 rotates into position under the belt of the second servo motor 41, the control system 5 can restart the distance measurement detection to obtain the actual distance d1 between the positive electrode 32 and the negative electrode 31 again, and calculate the difference between the set distance d2 and the actual distance d1 to obtain the deviation value e=|d2-d1|. If the deviation value e<0.5mm, the production technical requirements are met; otherwise, an accuracy alarm is output.

[0071] Example 4 This embodiment discloses a method for adjusting the distance between positive and negative electrodes, implemented based on the vertical continuous graphitization furnace equipment described above. The method includes: S21, the rotating module 61 drives the laser distance sensor 62 to rotate downward from the initial angle based on the control of the control system 5, so that the light emitted by the laser distance sensor 62 hits the side wall 322 of the positive electrode 32 and gradually swings down.

[0072] It should be noted that the initial angle is the angle between the laser distance sensor 62 and the horizontal or vertical position. This refers to the angle at which the laser distance sensor 62 begins its ranging operation. If the laser distance sensor 62 is not at the initial angle when preparing to perform the ranging operation, it can be adjusted to the initial angle first. The horizontal position is when the laser distance sensor 62 rotates to a position with a 0-degree angle to the horizontal plane. At this position, the light emitted by the laser distance sensor 62 is horizontal, pointing towards the positive electrode sidewall 322. The vertical position is when the laser distance sensor 62 rotates to a position with a 90-degree angle to the horizontal plane. At this position, the light emitted by the laser distance sensor 62 is vertical (downward). Of course, this is only to clarify the horizontal and vertical positions; the laser distance sensor 62 will not necessarily rotate to the horizontal / vertical position during actual operation.

[0073] Specifically, at the initial angle, the laser distance sensor 62 is in a horizontal position, that is, the initial angle is 0 degrees with the horizontal position, or the initial angle is 90 degrees with the vertical position. Of course, it is not limited to the laser distance sensor 62 being in a horizontal position, but it is necessary to ensure that under normal circumstances, the light emitted by the laser distance sensor 62 at the initial angle illuminates the side wall 322 of the positive electrode 32.

[0074] S22, the control system 5 acquires and records in real time the distance data measured by the laser distance sensor 62 during its downward rotation, as well as the position information fed back in real time by the rotating module 61, with each distance data and position information corresponding to the time.

[0075] S23, when the control system 5 confirms that the distance data acquired in real time has been continuously and gradually increasing and then a jump occurs, it controls the rotating module 61 to rotate into position and stay there according to the position information corresponding to the last distance data before the jump.

[0076] The illumination point of the laser distance sensor 62 swings downward along the side wall 322 of the positive electrode 32, causing the measured distance data to gradually increase continuously. Therefore, when several distance data points that gradually increase are obtained, it indicates that the light is swinging downward and illuminating the side wall 322 of the positive electrode 32. When the distance data jumps (including when no distance data is measured), it indicates that the light leaves the positive electrode 32 after illuminating the lowest point of the side wall 322. Therefore, the last distance data before the jump is the distance data between the laser distance sensor 62 and the lowest point of the side wall 322 of the positive electrode 32. Thus, the laser distance sensor 62 can be returned to the corresponding position and the distance measurement can be performed in a stationary state to obtain more accurate distance data.

[0077] S24, the laser distance sensor 62 performs distance measurement while stationary.

[0078] S25, the control system 5 acquires the current distance data (the distance data measured in the above-mentioned stationary state) measured by the laser distance sensor 62 and the second angle at which the laser distance sensor 62 is currently located, and calculates the first vertical distance between the laser emission point of the laser distance sensor 62 and the lower surface 321 of the positive electrode 32 (i.e. the lowest point of the side wall 322 of the positive electrode 32) based on the current distance data and the second angle. The second angle is the angle between the laser distance sensor 62 and the horizontal or vertical position.

[0079] Given the initial angle, the second angle can be calculated by combining the initial position information fed back by the rotating module 61 from the laser distance sensor 62 at the initial angle and the position information fed back by the rotating module 61 in the stationary state. After obtaining the value of the second angle, the first vertical distance between the lower surface 321 of the positive electrode 32 and the laser emission point can be calculated using a sine or cosine function based on the current distance data and the second angle.

[0080] S26, the control system 5 controls the positive electrode drive component 4 based on the first distance to make the positive electrode 32 move vertically.

[0081] After obtaining the first distance, the control system 5 can calculate the actual distance between the positive electrode 32 and the negative electrode 31 based on the first distance and the second vertical distance between the laser emission point of the laser distance sensor 62 and the upper surface 311 of the negative electrode 31. Then, the control system 5 can control the positive electrode driving component 4 to move the positive electrode 32 vertically based on the actual distance and the set distance. Specifically, it controls the positive electrode 32 to move up or down a corresponding distance according to the difference between the actual distance and the set distance. Of course, it is not necessary to calculate the actual distance; the position of the positive electrode 32 can also be adjusted directly based on the first distance and the corresponding set distance.

[0082] This embodiment can measure the distance between the positive and negative electrodes (including distance data that can be converted into the distance between the positive and negative electrodes), and can directly control the positive electrode drive component 4 to drive the positive electrode 32 to move vertically based on the measured vertical distance data. Compared with the prior art, which uses a crane to manually adjust the distance between the positive electrode 32 and the negative electrode 31, this application can achieve more precise distance adjustment, and the adjustment process can be carried out without human intervention, without the complexity and safety of manual operation.

[0083] In some embodiments, after the control system 5 controls the positive electrode drive component 4 to move the positive electrode 32 vertically based on the first distance, the method further includes: repeating steps S21 to S25 and confirming whether the latest obtained first distance or actual distance meets the set requirements. This operation is used to determine whether the distance adjustment meets the standard. If the latest obtained actual distance or first distance does not meet the set requirements, it is considered that the distance after adjustment is still substandard, and an alarm signal can be output.

[0084] The above-disclosed embodiments are merely preferred embodiments of this application and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this application. Therefore, any equivalent variations made in accordance with the claims of this application shall still fall within the scope of this application.

Claims

1. A cover assembly for a vertical continuous graphitization furnace, characterized in that, include: A cover body is configured to cover the top opening of the furnace body of the graphitization furnace equipment, the middle part of the cover body is configured to allow the positive electrode of the graphitization furnace equipment to be vertically inserted in an adjustable manner, and the cover body has a transparent area. The ranging component includes a rotating module and a laser distance sensor. The rotating module is mounted on the outer wall of the cover, and the laser distance sensor is mounted on the output end of the rotating module. The rotating module is used to drive the laser distance sensor to rotate so that its ranging port is adjustable up and down towards the transparent area. Driven by the rotating module, the laser distance sensor can emit light at different angles to the side wall of the positive electrode and can reach the lowest point of the side wall.

2. The cover assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rotating module includes a first servo motor, which is equipped with a first encoder. The first servo motor is mounted on the outer wall of the cover via a motor mounting bracket. A sensor mounting bracket is mounted on the shaft of the first servo motor. The laser distance sensor is mounted on the sensor mounting bracket. When the shaft of the first servo motor rotates, it drives the laser distance sensor to rotate up and down so that the vertical angle of the ranging port is adjustable. The first servo motor and the first encoder are configured to communicate with the control system.

3. The cover assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The laser emission point of the ranging port is located on the motor axis of the first servo motor.

4. A vertical continuous graphitization furnace, characterized in that, include: The cover assembly, furnace body, negative electrode, positive electrode, positive electrode drive assembly, and control system as described in any one of claims 1 to 3; The cover is provided over the top opening of the furnace body; The negative electrode is disposed at the bottom of the furnace cavity of the furnace body, and the positive electrode is disposed vertically in the furnace cavity with adjustable height. The negative electrode has a horizontal upper surface, and the positive electrode has a horizontal lower surface, with the lower surface of the positive electrode facing the upper surface of the negative electrode. A positive electrode driving component, wherein the output terminal of the positive electrode driving component is connected to the positive electrode to drive the positive electrode to rise and fall; The control system is communicatively connected to the rotating module, the laser distance sensor, and the positive electrode driving assembly. The control system is configured to: control the rotating module to adjust the vertical angle of the ranging port and receive position information fed back by the rotating module; control the laser distance sensor to perform ranging operations and control the positive electrode driving assembly to drive the positive electrode to rise and fall based on the distance data between the laser distance sensor and the lowest point of the sidewall of the positive electrode.

5. The vertical continuous graphitization furnace equipment according to claim 4, characterized in that, The positive electrode driving assembly includes a second servo motor equipped with a second encoder. The second servo motor is connected to a winding shaft, on which a lifting rope is wound. The outlet end of the lifting rope is connected to the upper end of the positive electrode to suspend the positive electrode. The second servo motor and the second encoder are communicatively connected to the control system. Under the control of the control system, the second servo motor drives the winding shaft to rotate forward to wind the lifting rope upward, thereby causing the positive electrode to move vertically upward, or rotates in the opposite direction to release the lifting rope downward, thereby causing the positive electrode to move vertically downward.

6. The vertical continuous graphitization furnace equipment according to claim 4, characterized in that, The positive electrode is in the shape of a cylindrical rod.

7. A method for adjusting the distance between positive and negative electrodes, characterized in that, Based on the vertical continuous graphitization furnace equipment according to any one of claims 4 to 6, the method includes: The rotating module, under the control of the control system, drives the laser distance sensor to rotate upward from an initial angle, causing the light emitted by the laser distance sensor to gradually swing upward, and after hitting the lowest point of the side wall of the positive electrode, it gradually moves upward along the side wall of the positive electrode. The control system acquires and records in real time the distance data measured by the laser distance sensor during its upward rotation, as well as the position information fed back by the rotating module in real time, with each distance data and the position information corresponding to time. When the control system confirms that the distance data acquired in real time is continuously and gradually decreasing, it controls the rotating module to rotate into position and stay there according to the position information corresponding to the starting distance data in the continuously and gradually decreasing distance data. The laser distance sensor measures distance while stationary; The control system acquires the current distance data measured by the laser distance sensor and the second angle at which the laser distance sensor is currently located, and calculates the first vertical distance between the laser emission point of the laser distance sensor and the lower surface of the positive electrode based on the current distance data and the second angle. The second angle is the angle between the laser distance sensor and the horizontal position or the vertical position. The control system controls the positive electrode driving component to move the positive electrode vertically based on the first distance.

8. The method for adjusting the distance between positive and negative electrodes according to claim 7, characterized in that, At the initial angle, the laser distance sensor is located in the vertical position.

9. A method for adjusting the distance between positive and negative electrodes, characterized in that, Based on the vertical continuous graphitization furnace equipment according to any one of claims 4 to 6, the method includes: The rotating module, under the control of the control system, drives the laser distance sensor to rotate downward from an initial angle, so that the light emitted by the laser distance sensor hits the side wall of the positive electrode and gradually swings downward. The control system acquires and records in real time the distance data measured by the laser distance sensor during its downward rotation, as well as the position information fed back by the rotating module in real time. Each distance data and the position information correspond to each other in time. When the control system confirms that the distance data acquired in real time has been continuously and gradually increasing before a jump occurs, it controls the rotating module to rotate into position and stay there according to the position information corresponding to the last distance data before the jump. The laser distance sensor measures distance while stationary; The control system acquires the current distance data measured by the laser distance sensor and the second angle at which the laser distance sensor is currently located, and calculates the first vertical distance between the laser emission point of the laser distance sensor and the lower surface of the positive electrode based on the current distance data and the second angle. The second angle is the angle between the laser distance sensor and the horizontal position or the vertical position. The control system controls the positive electrode driving component to move the positive electrode vertically based on the first distance.

10. The method for adjusting the distance between positive and negative electrodes according to claim 9, characterized in that, At the initial angle, the laser distance sensor is located in the horizontal position.

Images