A modular magnetic levitation variable pitch welding apparatus and a modular welding method

Abstract

The application provides a modular magnetic suspension variable-distance welding device and a modular welding method, which comprises an identification welding mechanism, the identification welding mechanism comprising an adjusting frame, a welder and a shooting camera, the inside of the adjusting frame being a welding space; a transmission line body; a jacking mechanism comprising a two-stage jacking assembly and a supporting table, the two-stage jacking assembly comprising a driving piece and a driven piece, the driving piece comprising a first-stage jacking slope and a second-stage jacking slope, and the driven piece comprising a driven frame and a roller; and a variable-distance protection mechanism, the variable-distance protection mechanism comprising a fixing frame and a plurality of protection positioning assemblies, the fixing frame being provided with a magnetic track, and the protection positioning assembly comprising a magnetic suspension rotor and a plurality of copper nozzles. Compared with the existing conventional welding technology, the application has the advantages of high automation degree, strong controllability, wide application range, high machining precision, high welding efficiency and stable welding quality, and provides a new automatic device for modular machining.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of module processing technology, specifically to a module magnetic levitation variable pitch welding equipment and a module welding method. Background Technology

[0002] In the assembly and production process of power battery modules, multiple cells are arranged sequentially, with separators embedded in the gaps between adjacent cells. In the subsequent welding process of the terminals and copper busbars, the copper nozzle of the welding equipment must be precisely aligned with the terminal of each cell to ensure the penetration depth, weld strength, and electrical connection reliability.

[0003] However, the thickness of the module partition or the assembly deviation of the battery cell itself can cause the battery cell terminal position to deviate. This results in the copper nozzle supplying protective gas during welding not being able to accurately position all terminals, thus frequently causing "off-center welding". The weld point deviates from the center of the terminal, which not only reduces the welding strength, but may also increase the contact resistance between the terminal and the copper busbar, affecting the overall performance of the module.

[0004] Currently, the industry mostly uses a point-by-point calibration method to address the above problems, that is, to adjust the equipment by single-point detection before welding. However, this method is extremely inefficient and cannot meet the needs of large-scale, automated production of power battery modules. Some companies have tried to improve the situation by increasing the manufacturing precision of separators and optimizing the control of module preload, but due to the constraints of cell tolerances, assembly processes and other factors, the problems of electrode position deviation and inaccurate copper nozzle positioning have not been effectively solved, becoming a key technical bottleneck affecting the production efficiency, product quality and reliability of power battery modules. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Therefore, the technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the problem that the pole post and the copper nozzle are difficult to accurately align during module welding in the prior art, and to provide a module magnetic levitation variable pitch welding device and module welding method.

[0006] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this invention provides a module magnetic levitation variable-pitch welding device, comprising: a welding identification mechanism, which includes an adjustment frame, a welder, and a camera; the adjustment frame having a welding space inside; the welder and the camera being slidably connected to the adjustment frame and movable within the welding space; a transmission line extending through the welding space along a first direction, through which the module to be welded is moved into the welding space; and a lifting mechanism disposed on the extension path of the transmission line, comprising a secondary lifting assembly and a support platform; the secondary lifting assembly including a driving member and a driven member, which are movable relative to each other along the first direction; wherein the driving member is disposed below the transmission line and includes a primary lifting member extending obliquely along the height direction of the driving member in the first direction. The system includes a primary lifting ramp and a secondary lifting ramp, with the top of the primary lifting ramp connected to the bottom of the secondary lifting ramp. The driven component includes a driven frame and rollers. The rollers are rotatably connected to the bottom of the driven frame and roll on the primary or secondary lifting ramp of the driving component to drive the driven frame to move up and down. The support platform is connected to the top surface of the driven frame to lift the module to be welded. A variable-pitch protection mechanism includes a fixed frame and multiple protective positioning components. The fixed frame is located on one side of the transmission line and has a magnetic track on it. Each protective positioning component includes a magnetically levitated mover connected to each other and multiple copper nozzles. The magnetically levitated mover is slidably connected to the magnetic track to adjust the spacing between adjacent protective positioning components. The copper nozzles can abut against the module to be welded, and the welder contacts the electrode to be welded through the copper nozzles.

[0007] In one embodiment of the present invention, the lifting mechanism further includes an assembly platform, the assembly platform being provided with at least one guide module extending along the first direction, and the bottom of the driving member being provided with a slider, the slider being slidably connected to the guide module.

[0008] In one embodiment of the present invention, the support platform is provided with a positioning pin, a side block and a guide post. The positioning pin protrudes from the upper surface of the support platform and can be inserted into the positioning hole at the bottom of the module to be welded. A plurality of the side blocks are provided on the edge of the support platform in a second direction. The guide post extends along the height direction of the lifting mechanism, with one end connected to the support platform and the other end slidingly inserted into the assembly platform.

[0009] In one embodiment of the present invention, the driving member further includes a primary cache surface and a secondary cache surface, both of which extend along the first direction. The two ends of the primary cache surface are respectively connected to the top end of the primary lifting ramp and the bottom end of the secondary lifting ramp, and the secondary cache surface is connected to the top end of the secondary lifting ramp. The driven member can be supported and cached on the primary cache surface or the secondary cache surface.

[0010] In one embodiment of the present invention, the secondary lifting assembly includes at least two driving members, at least two driven members, a connecting frame, and a driver. The at least two driving members and the at least two driven members are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence. The driver is disposed at one end of the connecting frame, and the driving members are all connected to the connecting frame so as to move synchronously along the first direction by means of the driver.

[0011] In one embodiment of the present invention, the lifting mechanism further includes two limiting components, which are respectively disposed at both ends of the support platform in a first direction. Each limiting component includes a stop driver and a stop pin. The stop pin is disposed at the power output end of the stop driver and moves along the height direction of the lifting mechanism to stop / avoid the support platform.

[0012] In one embodiment of the present invention, the protective positioning component further includes a linkage plate and a heat insulation plate. The linkage plate is connected to the magnetic levitation mover, and the heat insulation plate is connected to the linkage plate and extends in a horizontal direction. The copper nozzle is disposed in the middle of the heat insulation plate.

[0013] In one embodiment of the present invention, the protective positioning component further includes a floating assembly frame and a plurality of elastic elements, the floating assembly frame being disposed on the heat insulation plate, and the plurality of elastic elements being respectively connected between the floating assembly frame and the copper nozzle.

[0014] In one embodiment of the present invention, the variable pitch protection mechanism further includes multiple gas transmission pipelines and multiple flow valves, wherein the multiple gas transmission pipelines are respectively connected to multiple copper nozzles, and the multiple flow valves are respectively disposed on the multiple gas transmission pipelines.

[0015] In one embodiment of the present invention, the adjustment frame includes a first horizontal module, a second horizontal module, a lifting slide, and a mounting base. The second horizontal module extends along the second direction. The first horizontal module is slidably connected to the second horizontal module and extends along the first direction. The lifting slide is slidably connected to the first horizontal module and has a lifting module on it. The mounting base is slidably connected to the lifting module. The welder and the camera are both mounted on the mounting base.

[0016] In one embodiment of the present invention, the module magnetic levitation variable pitch welding equipment further includes a mounting plate and at least two steps. The identification welding mechanism is supported on the mounting plate. The mounting plate is provided with at least two processing stations. Each processing station is provided with a transmission line, the lifting mechanism and the variable pitch protection mechanism. The steps are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence with the processing stations.

[0017] In one embodiment of the present invention, the module magnetic levitation variable pitch welding equipment further includes a control mechanism, wherein the welder, the camera, the lifting mechanism and the variable pitch protection mechanism are respectively connected to the control mechanism.

[0018] This invention also provides a module welding method, which uses the aforementioned module magnetic levitation variable-pitch welding equipment for module welding processing, comprising: step S1, transferring the module to be welded to the welding space; step S2, lifting the module to be welded for the first time to detach it from the transmission line; step S3, photographing and identifying the marked points on the module to be welded to determine the pole spacing on the module; step S4, adjusting the position of the protective positioning component according to the pole spacing, so that multiple copper nozzles on the protective positioning component correspond one-to-one with the poles on the module to be welded in the vertical direction; step S5, lifting the module to be welded for the second time until the poles on the module to be welded abut against the corresponding copper nozzles; step S6, welding multiple poles to be welded sequentially, while supplying protective gas to the welding sites through the copper nozzles to complete the module welding processing.

[0019] In one embodiment of the present invention, the module to be welded is lifted in two stages by a lifting mechanism. In step S2, the driving member moves for the first time along the first direction, and then the driven member moves along the first-stage lifting ramp to the first-stage buffer surface. In step S5, the driving member moves for the second time along the first direction, and then the driven member moves along the second-stage lifting ramp to the second-stage buffer surface.

[0020] In one embodiment of the present invention, step S5 specifically involves: lifting the module to be welded for the second time using a lifting mechanism until the poles on the module to be welded abut against the bottom surfaces of the corresponding copper nozzles. During this process, the elastic element is gradually compressed at the top of the copper nozzles to buffer the pressing process of the copper nozzles.

[0021] The technical solution of the present invention has the following advantages compared with the prior art:

[0022] The modular magnetic levitation variable-pitch welding equipment and method described in this invention transports the module to be welded via a transmission line. A lifting mechanism performs a secondary lifting of the module. The first lifting, in conjunction with a camera, identifies the position of the module's electrode post. Then, a variable-pitch protection mechanism adjusts the position of the protective positioning component, achieving a one-to-one correspondence between the copper nozzle and the battery cell electrode post. A second lifting by the lifting mechanism ensures a tight fit between the module and the copper nozzle, providing a welding reference and supplying protective gas to the welder. Finally, welding is performed by the welder, achieving a high-precision welding process. Compared to existing conventional welding technologies, this application offers advantages such as high automation, strong controllability, wide applicability, high processing accuracy, high welding efficiency, and stable welding quality, providing a novel automated equipment for module processing. Attached Figure Description

[0023] To make the content of this invention easier to understand, the invention will be further described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments and accompanying drawings.

[0024] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the module magnetic levitation variable pitch welding equipment in a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the identification welding mechanism in the magnetic levitation variable pitch welding equipment shown in the figure;

[0026] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Enlarged structural diagram at point A in the middle;

[0027] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the transmission line and lifting mechanism in the magnetic levitation variable pitch welding equipment shown in the figure.

[0028] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the lifting mechanism in the magnetic levitation variable pitch welding equipment shown in the figure;

[0029] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Enlarged structural diagram at point B;

[0030] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the pitch protection mechanism in the magnetic levitation pitch welding equipment shown.

[0031] Figure 8 It is part Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the pitch protection mechanism in the magnetic levitation pitch welding equipment shown.

[0032] Figure 9 yes Figure 7 Enlarged structural diagram at point C.

[0033] Explanation of reference numerals in the accompanying drawings: 100, Mounting plate; 200, Identifying welding mechanism; 210, Adjusting frame; 211, First horizontal module; 212, Second horizontal module; 213, Lifting slide; 214, Lifting module; 215, Mounting base; 216, 3D camera; 220, Welder; 230, Capturing camera; 300, Transmission line; 400, Lifting mechanism; 410, Assembly table; 411, Guide module; 420, Secondary lifting assembly; 421, Driving component; 4211, Primary lifting ramp; 4212, Primary buffer surface; 4213, Secondary lifting ramp; 4214, Secondary buffer surface; 4215, Slider; 422, Follower; 4221. Driven frame; 4222, Roller; 423, Connecting frame; 424, Driver; 430, Support platform; 431, Positioning pin; 432, Side stop block; 433, Guide column; 440, Limiting assembly; 441, Stop driver; 442, Stop pin; 500, Pitch protection mechanism; 510, Fixed frame; 511, Magnetic track; 520, Protective positioning assembly; 521, Magnetic levitation mover; 522, Linking plate; 523, Heat insulation plate; 524, Copper nozzle; 525, Elastic element; 526, Floating assembly frame; 530, Gas transmission pipeline; 531, Flow valve; 600, Step; 700, Module to be welded; X, First direction; Y, Second direction; Z, Third direction. Detailed Implementation

[0034] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments, so that those skilled in the art can better understand and implement the present invention. However, the embodiments described are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0035] Example 1:

[0036] See Figure 1As shown, this embodiment provides a module magnetic levitation variable-pitch welding device, which includes: a welding identification mechanism 200, the welding identification mechanism 200 including an adjustment frame 210, a welder 220 and a camera 230, the adjustment frame 210 having a welding space inside, the welder 220 and the camera 230 being slidably connected to the adjustment frame 210 and moving within the welding space; and a transmission line 300, the transmission line 300 passing through the welding space in a first direction, through which the module 700 to be welded is moved into the welding space. A lifting mechanism 400 is disposed on the extension path of the transmission line 300. It includes a secondary lifting assembly 420 and a support platform 430. The secondary lifting assembly 420 includes a driving member 421 and a driven member 422, which are movable relative to each other along the first direction. The driving member 421 is disposed below the transmission line 300 and includes a primary lifting ramp 4211 and a secondary lifting ramp 4213 extending obliquely along the height direction of the driving member 421 in the first direction. The top end of the primary lifting ramp 4211 is connected to the bottom end of the secondary lifting ramp 4213. The driven member 422 includes a driven frame 4221 and a roller 4222. The roller 4222 is rotatably connected to the bottom of the driven frame 4221 and is rolledly supported on the primary lifting ramp 4211 or the secondary lifting ramp 4213 of the driving member 421 to drive the driven frame 4221 to move up and down. The support platform 430 is connected to the top surface of the driven frame 4221 to lift the module 700 to be welded. A pitch protection mechanism 500 is also included. The mechanism 500 includes a fixed frame 510 and multiple protective positioning components 520. The fixed frame 510 is disposed on one side of the transmission line 300 and has a magnetic track 511 on it. Each protective positioning component 520 includes a magnetically levitated mover 521 connected to each other and multiple copper nozzles 524. The magnetically levitated mover 521 is slidably connected to the magnetic track 511 to adjust the spacing between adjacent protective positioning components 520. The copper nozzles 524 can abut against the module 700 to be welded, and the welder 220 contacts the pole to be welded through the copper nozzles 524.

[0037] The module magnetic levitation variable-pitch welding equipment described in this embodiment transmits the module 700 to be welded via the transmission line 300. The lifting mechanism 400 can perform a second lifting of the module 700. The first lifting is used in conjunction with the camera 230 to identify the position of the module pole. Then, the variable-pitch protection mechanism 500 adjusts the position of the protective positioning component 520 accordingly, thereby achieving a one-to-one correspondence between the copper nozzle 524 and the battery cell pole. Next, the second lifting of the lifting mechanism 400 achieves a tight fit between the module 700 to be welded and the copper nozzle 524, so as to provide a welding reference and supply protective gas for the welder 220. Finally, the welder 220 performs welding to achieve a high-precision processing welding process.

[0038] It should be noted that, for ease of description, in this embodiment, the transmission direction of the transmission line 300 is defined as the first direction X, the width direction of the magnetic levitation variable pitch welding equipment of this module is defined as the second direction Y, and the height direction of the magnetic levitation variable pitch welding equipment of this module is defined as the third direction Z. The first direction X, the second direction Y and the third direction Z are arranged perpendicular to each other, and the first direction X and the second direction Y are located in the same plane.

[0039] See Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, in this embodiment, the identification and welding mechanism 200 serves as the core structure for the equipment to achieve module identification and precise welding. Through the coordination of the adjustment frame 210, the welder 220, and the camera 230, it completes the positioning of the pole of the module 700 to be welded and the final welding operation. The adjustment frame 210 serves as the mounting and moving carrier for the welder 220 and the camera 230. Its internal reserved welding space provides a closed and suitable working area for subsequent processes such as material feeding by the transmission line 300, lifting by the lifting mechanism 400, and positioning by the variable-pitch protection mechanism 500. Simultaneously, it provides a stable moving path for the welder 220 and the camera 230, ensuring that they can flexibly adjust their positions in multiple directions, including horizontal and vertical, within the welding space to adapt to the welding requirements of modules of different sizes.

[0040] Specifically, see Figure 2 , 3As shown, the adjustment frame 210 in this embodiment includes a first horizontal module 211, a second horizontal module 212, a lifting slide 213, and a mounting base 215. The second horizontal module 212 extends along the second direction. The first horizontal module 211 is slidably connected to the second horizontal module 212 and extends along the first direction. The lifting slide 213 is slidably connected to the first horizontal module 211 and has a lifting module 214 on it. The mounting base 215 is slidably connected to the lifting module 214. The welder 220 and the camera 230 are both mounted on the mounting base 215. The second horizontal module 212 serves as the basic guide structure for the adjustment frame 210, providing sliding support for the first horizontal module 211. The first horizontal module 211 can drive subsequent components to move synchronously along the second direction, achieving position adjustment perpendicular to the conveying direction on the horizontal plane. The lifting slide 213 is slidably connected to the first horizontal module 211 and can move along the first direction to adjust the horizontal position parallel to the conveying direction. The lifting module 214 installed on it can convert rotational power into linear lifting power. The mounting base 215 is slidably connected to the lifting module 214 and can achieve vertical height adjustment under the drive of the lifting module 214. The welder 220 and the camera 230 are both fixed on the mounting base 215. Finally, through the linkage of each module, the welder 220 and the camera 230 can achieve flexible and precise displacement in the horizontal and vertical directions to adapt to the pole positioning identification and welding operation requirements of different sized welding modules 700.

[0041] Furthermore, after the camera 230 performs image recognition, a 3D camera 216 installed on the other side of the mounting base 215 can be used for height detection to further improve welding accuracy by determining the actual welding height of the pole post.

[0042] In this embodiment, the welder 220 serves as the welding execution component of the equipment, with its core function being the output of welding energy. It works in conjunction with the copper nozzle 524 of the pitch protection mechanism 500. The energy output end of the welder 220 is coaxially aligned with the central clearance through-hole of the copper nozzle 524. Once the copper nozzle 524 is precisely aligned with the electrode to be welded, the welder 220 can accurately transfer energy to the welding area of ​​the electrode, achieving metal fusion. Furthermore, the welder 220 can slide with the adjustment frame 210 to further fine-tune the welding position, compensating for minor positioning deviations and ensuring welding accuracy.

[0043] The camera 230 serves as a visual recognition sensor for the pole position, primarily used to capture and identify the mark points at the end of the module 700 to be welded, thereby collecting information on the pole position. During the initial lifting of the module by the lifting mechanism 400, the camera 230 moves with the adjusting frame 210 to above the module end, capturing the module's mark points through high-definition imaging and transmitting the position data to the equipment control system. Based on this data, the control system calculates the parameters that need to be adjusted for the variable-pitch protection mechanism 500, providing a precise basis for the subsequent spacing adjustment of the protective positioning components 520 and preventing welding misalignment caused by module assembly errors.

[0044] See Figure 4 As shown, the transmission line 300 is the foundation for the equipment to achieve continuous production. Its core function is to directionally and stably transport the module 700 to be welded. Its two ends are respectively connected to the external production line. It can accurately stop the module above the lifting mechanism 400. After the positioning identification and pitch adjustment are completed, it works with the lifting mechanism 400 to ensure that the module maintains a stable position during the welding process and avoids the transmission deviation from affecting the welding accuracy.

[0045] See Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the lifting mechanism 400, through the coordination of the secondary lifting component 420 and the support platform 430, achieves two lifting operations on the module 700 to be welded, serving the pole positioning and identification and the welding bonding respectively. The driving component 421 is fixed to the power output end below the transmission line 300, and its primary lifting ramp 4211 and secondary lifting ramp 4213 are key structures for achieving graded lifting. The primary lifting ramp 4211 can drive the driven component 422 to slowly rise to the positioning and identification height, ensuring that the module mark point is within the clear imaging range of the camera 230, and preventing the pole from contacting the copper nozzle 524 of the pitch protection mechanism 500. The secondary lifting ramp 4213 can drive the driven component 422 to further rise to the welding bonding height, ensuring that the module pole and the copper nozzle 524 are tightly abutted, providing a stable reference for welding. Meanwhile, the top of the first-stage lifting ramp 4211 is connected to the bottom of the second-stage lifting ramp 4213, ensuring that the roller 4222 of the driven member 422 can smoothly transition and avoid jamming during the lifting process.

[0046] Furthermore, the driving component 421 also includes a primary buffer surface 4212 and a secondary buffer surface 4214, both of which extend along the first direction. The two ends of the primary buffer surface 4212 are respectively connected to the top end of the primary lifting ramp 4211 and the bottom end of the secondary lifting ramp 4213. The secondary buffer surface 4214 is connected to the top end of the secondary lifting ramp 4213. The driven component 422 can be supported and buffered on the primary buffer surface 4212 or the secondary buffer surface 4214.

[0047] Specifically, in the driving component 421 of the lifting mechanism 400 of the module magnetic levitation variable pitch welding equipment, the primary buffer surface 4212 and the secondary buffer surface 4214 are key auxiliary structures that ensure a smooth transition of the lifting action and achieve precise stopping of the module. Both extend along the first direction and form an orderly connection with the lifting inclined surface. The two ends of the primary buffer surface 4212 are connected to the top of the primary lifting inclined surface 4211 and the bottom of the secondary lifting inclined surface 4213, respectively. When the roller 4222 of the driven component 422 rolls along the primary lifting inclined surface 4211 to the top, it will smoothly transition to the primary buffer surface 4212. At this time, the driven component 422, the connected support platform 430, and the module 700 to be welded will be stably supported and buffered on the primary buffer surface 4212. This state corresponds to the first lifting stop of the lifting mechanism 400, which allows the module to stop smoothly. Maintaining a fixed positioning and recognition height provides a stable shooting environment for the camera 230 to capture the position of the pole, avoiding module shaking caused by incomplete stopping of the lifting action, and ensuring the accuracy of pole position recognition. The secondary buffer surface 4214 is connected to the top of the secondary lifting ramp 4213. When the roller 4222 of the follower 422 rolls up the secondary lifting ramp 4213 to the top, it will transition to the secondary buffer surface 4214, so that the follower 422, the support platform 430 and the module are stably supported and buffered on this surface. This state corresponds to the second lifting stop of the lifting mechanism 400, which can accurately fix the module at the welding fitting height, ensuring that the copper nozzle 524 is tightly abutted against the pole and maintains a stable position, providing a reliable reference for subsequent welding by the welder 220, and avoiding the impact of module height deviation on welding accuracy during the welding process. Thus, the primary cache surface 4212 and the secondary cache surface 4214 provide stable support and stopping areas, realizing graded stopping during the lifting process. They provide stable height references for pole positioning and identification and welding bonding, respectively, and are important structures to ensure the accurate realization of the lifting mechanism 400's functions.

[0048] Furthermore, the lifting mechanism 400 in this embodiment also includes an assembly platform 410. The assembly platform 410 is provided with at least one guide module 411 extending along the first direction. The bottom of the driving component 421 is provided with a slider 4215, which is slidably connected to the guide module 411. In the lifting mechanism 400 of the modular magnetic levitation variable-pitch welding equipment in this embodiment, the assembly platform 410 serves as the mounting, bearing, and motion guiding foundation for the driving component 421. Its core function is to provide stable support and precise guiding constraints for the movement of the driving component 421 by integrating the guide module 411. The assembly platform 410, as the fixed base of the lifting mechanism 400, provides an installation reference for the entire secondary lifting assembly 420, ensuring that each component maintains a stable relative position on the same horizontal plane and avoiding deviation in the lifting action due to base swaying. Furthermore, the at least one guide module 411 extending along the first direction on the assembly platform 410, along with the slider 4215 at the bottom of the driving component 421, provides stable support and precise guiding constraints for the movement of the driving component 421. A sliding fit structure is formed. When the driving component 421 needs to move along the first direction to drive the roller 4222 of the driven component 422 to roll on the lifting slope, the slider 4215 can slide smoothly along the guide module 411. Through the limiting effect of the guide module 411 on the slider 4215, the movement trajectory of the driving component 421 is strictly constrained to prevent the driving component 421 from deviating in the horizontal direction during the movement. This ensures that the relative movement between the driving component 421 and the driven component 422 is precise and controllable, thereby ensuring the accuracy of the lifting height of the support platform 430 and avoiding inaccurate module lifting height due to the movement deviation of the driving component 421, which would affect the accuracy of subsequent pole positioning recognition or copper nozzle 524 bonding and welding.

[0049] In this embodiment, the driven member 422 is a transmission unit connecting the support platform 430 and the driving member 421. It converts the horizontal relative movement of the driving member 421 into the vertical lifting and lowering of the driven frame 4221 via a roller 4222 rotatably connected to its bottom. When the driving member 421 moves along the first direction, the roller 4222 rolls on the inclined lifting surface. Due to the change in the height of the inclined surface, the driven frame 4221 is simultaneously lifted and lowered. The rotational design of the roller 4222 reduces friction with the inclined surface of the driving member 421, improving the smoothness of the lifting action and extending its service life.

[0050] The support platform 430 is the direct carrier for stable support of the module, and it is connected to the top surface of the driven frame 4221. During the first lifting, the support platform 430 raises the module to the positioning and identification height, and works with the camera 230 to capture the position of the pole. During the second lifting, the support platform 430 raises the module to the welding contact height, so that the pole and the copper nozzle 524 of the pitch protection mechanism 500 are in close contact, ensuring the coaxiality of the copper nozzle 524 and the pole, and providing a precise welding reference for the welder 220.

[0051] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the support platform 430 is provided with a positioning pin 431, a side block 432, and a guide post 433. The positioning pin 431 protrudes from the upper surface of the support platform 430 and can be inserted into the positioning hole at the bottom of the module 700 to be welded. A plurality of side blocks 432 are provided on the edge of the support platform 430 in the second direction. The guide post 433 extends along the height direction of the lifting mechanism 400, with one end connected to the support platform 430 and the other end slidingly inserted into the assembly platform 410. The positioning pin 431 serves as a positioning anchor point at the bottom of the module, protruding from the upper surface of the support platform 430. When the transmission line 300 transports the module above the support platform 430, the positioning pin 431 can be precisely inserted into the pre-set positioning hole at the bottom of the module 700 to be welded. Through mechanical insertion, it restricts the horizontal displacement of the module on the surface of the support platform 430 along the first direction X and the second direction Y, preventing the module from shifting due to vibration or external force during the lifting process. This ensures that the module pole is always within the recognition range of the camera 230 and on the subsequent docking path of the copper nozzle 524, providing a basic position guarantee for subsequent positioning recognition and welding bonding. The side blocks 432 serve as auxiliary limiting barriers in the horizontal direction of the module. Multiple side blocks 432 are arranged along the edge of the support platform 430 in the second direction Y, which can limit the module from the side. On the one hand, during the process of conveying the module from the transmission line 300 to the support platform 430, the side stop 432 can guide the module to fall precisely into the preset area of ​​the support platform 430, playing a pre-positioning role. On the other hand, during the lifting and welding process, the side stop 432 can further restrict the displacement of the module along the second direction Y, supplementing the limiting effect of the positioning pin 431. Especially for modules without positioning holes or with insufficient positioning hole accuracy, more reliable horizontal positioning can be achieved through the cooperation of the side stop 432 and the positioning pin 431. The guide column 433 serves as a vertical guide for the lifting of the support platform 430. It extends along the height direction Z of the lifting mechanism 400, with one end fixedly connected to the support platform 430 and the other end slidingly passing through the assembly table 410. When the secondary lifting component 420 drives the support platform 430 to rise and fall, the guide column 433 can slide smoothly along the preset channel of the assembly platform 410. Through its own rigid structure, it restricts the horizontal swaying or tilting of the support platform 430 during the lifting process, ensuring that the support platform 430 always remains in a horizontal state. This avoids the displacement of the module pole position due to the tilting of the support platform 430, thereby ensuring the accuracy of the subsequent positioning and recognition of the shooting camera 230 and the stability of the bonding and welding of the copper nozzle 524. It is the core guiding component for the support platform 430 to achieve smooth and precise lifting and lowering.

[0052] Specifically, the secondary lifting assembly 420 in this embodiment includes at least two driving members 421, at least two driven members 422, a connecting frame 423, and a driver 424. The at least two driving members 421 and the at least two driven members 422 are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence. The driver 424 is disposed at one end of the connecting frame 423, and all driving members 421 are connected to the connecting frame 423 to move synchronously along the first direction X via the driver 424. Compared to a structure with a single driving member 421 and a single driven member 422, the multiple corresponding designs can provide lifting force from different positions of the support platform 430, avoiding tilting of the support platform 430 due to single-point force. Each drive component 421, through its primary lifting ramp 4211 and secondary lifting ramp 4213, cooperates with the roller 4222 of the corresponding driven component 422 to convert horizontal movement into vertical lifting of the driven component 422. The synchronized operation of multiple structures ensures consistent lifting height at all points on the support platform 430, further enhancing the horizontal stability during module lifting and preventing module displacement due to uneven support. The connecting frame 423 integrates at least two drive components 421 into a single unit. By fixing all drive components 421 to the connecting frame 423, it ensures that each drive component 421 maintains its relative position during movement, preventing misalignment between multiple drive components 421 and the driven component 422 due to displacement deviation of a single drive component 421, thus laying the structural foundation for subsequent synchronized lifting. The driver 424, serving as the power output source for the secondary lifting assembly 420, is preferably a linear motor, located at one end of the connecting frame 423, and outputs linear driving force. When the driver 424 is started, it will drive the connecting frame 423 to move along the first direction X. The connecting frame 423 will then drive all the driving components 421 on it to move synchronously, so that each driving component 421 and the roller 4222 of the corresponding driven component 422 will form a synchronous relative motion. This will eventually be converted into the synchronous lifting and lowering of all the driven components 422, so as to achieve the smooth and uniform lifting of the support platform 430 and the module 700 to be welded. This will avoid lifting jamming or tilting of the support platform 430 due to asynchronous driving, and ensure the accuracy of subsequent pole positioning identification and welding bonding.

[0053] In this embodiment, the lifting mechanism 400 further includes two limiting components 440. The two limiting components 440 are respectively disposed at both ends of the support platform 430 in the first direction X. Each limiting component 440 includes a stop driver 441 and a stop pin 442. The stop pin 442 is disposed at the power output end of the stop driver 441 and moves along the height direction Z of the lifting mechanism 400 to stop / avoid the support platform 430. In the lifting mechanism 400 of the module magnetic levitation variable pitch welding equipment, the two limiting components 440 correspond to both ends of the support platform 430 in the first direction X, and can form bidirectional limiting from both ends of the support platform 430 to ensure that the support platform 430 is always in the preset position within the welding space. This avoids the module pole from deviating from the recognition range of the camera 230 or the docking path of the copper nozzle 524 due to the offset of the support platform 430, and provides positional guarantee for subsequent positioning recognition and welding bonding. The stop actuator 441 can output a driving force along the height direction Z of the lifting mechanism 400 to control the raising and lowering of the stop pin 442. The stop pin 442 directly limits the structural carrier, which moves along the height direction Z of the lifting mechanism 400 to restrict the displacement of the support platform 430 through physical blocking, forming a rigid block to fix the position of the support platform 430 from both ends and prevent the support platform 430 from sliding along the first direction X.

[0054] See Figures 7 to 9 As shown, the variable-pitch protection mechanism 500, through the coordination of the fixing frame 510 and multiple protective positioning components 520, achieves a one-to-one correspondence between the copper nozzle 524 and the pole post, while simultaneously providing protection and positioning functions. This is crucial for resolving pole post spacing deviations. The fixing frame 510 is fixed to one side of the transmission line 300, providing a stable mounting base for the protective positioning components 520. The magnetic track 511 mounted on it serves as the sliding track for the magnetically levitated actuator 521. Preset track accuracy ensures that the protective positioning components 520 maintain precise positioning during sliding and adjusting the spacing, preventing misalignment of the copper nozzle 524 due to track deviations. Magnetic levitation actuator 521: Utilizing magnetic levitation technology to achieve contactless sliding, avoiding adjustment errors caused by mechanical friction, it can precisely slide along the magnetic track 511 under the drive of the control system based on the pole spacing data identified by the camera 230, quickly adjusting the interval distance between adjacent protective positioning components 520, and ultimately achieving a one-to-one correspondence between the copper nozzle 524 on each component and the pole of the module 700 to be welded, thereby solving the problem of uneven pole spacing caused by partition compression deviation in the existing technology.

[0055] It should be noted that each protective positioning component 520 in this embodiment is connected to eight copper nozzles 524. Because the positional deviation of adjacent poles is not large, the accumulation of errors as the distance increases will lead to a large deviation of poles with a certain interval. Therefore, in this embodiment, eight copper nozzles 524 are used as a group for overall adjustment to simplify the structural configuration and reduce production and processing costs.

[0056] Furthermore, the protective positioning component 520 in this embodiment also includes a linkage plate 522 and a heat insulation plate 523. The linkage plate 522 is connected to the magnetic levitation actuator 521, and the heat insulation plate 523 is connected to the linkage plate 522 and extends horizontally. The copper nozzle 524 is disposed in the middle of the heat insulation plate 523. The linkage plate 522 serves as the power transmission carrier between the magnetic levitation actuator 521 and the copper nozzle 524. One end of the linkage plate 522 is fixedly connected to the magnetic levitation actuator 521, and the other end provides an installation base for the heat insulation plate 523. Its core function is to achieve synchronous transmission of power and displacement. When the equipment control system drives the magnetic levitation mover 521 to slide along the magnetic track 511 to adjust the spacing of the protective positioning components 520, the magnetic levitation mover 521 will drive the heat insulation plate 523 and the copper nozzle 524 to move synchronously through the connecting plate 522. This ensures that the displacement of the copper nozzle 524 is completely consistent with the adjustment accuracy of the magnetic levitation mover 521, preventing the copper nozzle 524 from shifting due to loose connection structure. This ensures the precise docking of the copper nozzle 524 with the pole of the module 700 to be welded, providing a positional reference for subsequent welding. At the same time, the connecting plate 522 can enhance the overall stability of the protective positioning components 520 through its rigid structure, preventing the copper nozzle 524 from shaking due to external forces during movement or welding. The heat insulation plate 523 mainly provides thermal protection. When the welder 220 welds through the copper nozzle 524, high temperatures are generated in the pole welding area, and some of the heat is conducted to the interior of the protective positioning components 520 through the copper nozzle 524.

[0057] In this embodiment, the heat insulation plate 523 is made of high-temperature resistant, low-thermal-conductivity fiberglass board, which can effectively block heat transfer to the linkage plate 522, the magnetic levitation mover 521, and the magnetic track 511. This prevents the magnetic components of the magnetic levitation mover 521 from demagnetizing, the magnetic track 511 from deforming, or the connecting structure from being damaged by heat due to high temperatures, thus ensuring the long-term stable operation of the protective positioning component 520. In addition, the horizontally extending structure of the heat insulation plate 523 provides a stable mounting surface for the copper nozzle 524, ensuring that multiple copper nozzles 524 maintain a consistent height on the same horizontal plane, further improving the accuracy of the connection between the copper nozzle 524 and the pole post. In different embodiments, the heat insulation plate 523 can be configured as a ceramic plate, a high-temperature resistant composite plate, or other materials according to actual usage requirements. This invention does not specifically limit this.

[0058] In this embodiment, multiple copper nozzles 524 can precisely abut against the surface of the electrode post, providing a clear welding point reference for the welder 220 through physical contact, ensuring that the energy of the welder 220 is accurately applied to the electrode post; at the same time, the copper nozzles 524 have integrated gas channels inside, which can deliver protective gases such as argon and helium during welding, forming a sealed gas layer in the electrode post welding area, isolating air and preventing oxidation of the molten pool; most importantly, the copper nozzles 524 have a clearance through hole in the middle to achieve welding conductivity, and at the same time, the copper nozzles 524 can conduct welding current, assist the welder 220 in igniting the arc, provide energy supplementation for laser welding, and ensure fusion quality.

[0059] Furthermore, the protective positioning component 520 in this embodiment also includes a floating assembly frame 526 and multiple elastic elements 525. The floating assembly frame 526 is disposed on the heat insulation plate 523, and the multiple elastic elements 525 are respectively connected between the floating assembly frame 526 and the copper nozzle 524. The multiple elastic elements 525 can be made of materials with elastic recovery capabilities, such as springs or elastic rubber, and mainly perform the dual functions of buffering and shock absorption and pressure equalization. On the one hand, during the docking process between the copper nozzle 524 and the pole post, the elastic element 525 can absorb the impact force during the lifting of the module through its own compression, avoiding damage to the pole post or displacement of the copper nozzle 524 caused by rigid contact, while also reducing vibration during the docking process and ensuring the stability of the fit between the copper nozzle 524 and the pole post. On the other hand, multiple elastic elements 525 are evenly distributed along the floating assembly frame 526, which can apply balanced elastic pressure to the copper nozzle 524, ensuring that the pressure on the contact surface between the copper nozzle 524 and the pole post is consistent everywhere. This avoids both insufficient pressure leading to loose fit and excessive pressure causing pole post dent or module structure damage, providing a stable docking foundation for energy transfer and protective gas coverage in the subsequent welding process.

[0060] Specifically, the variable pitch protection mechanism 500 in this embodiment further includes multiple gas transmission pipelines 530 and multiple flow valves 531. The multiple gas transmission pipelines 530 are respectively connected to multiple copper nozzles 524, and the multiple flow valves 531 are correspondingly arranged on the multiple gas transmission pipelines 530 to realize the supply of protective gas or the recovery of welding impurities. The module magnetic levitation variable pitch welding equipment in this embodiment also includes a mounting plate 100 and at least two steps 600. The identification welding mechanism 200 is supported on the mounting plate 100. The mounting plate 100 is provided with at least two processing stations. Each processing station is provided with a transmission line 300, a lifting mechanism 400, and a variable pitch protection mechanism 500. The steps 600 are correspondingly arranged with each processing station, thereby improving its welding processing efficiency. In different embodiments, other numbers of processing stations can be set according to actual usage requirements. This invention does not specifically limit this.

[0061] The modular magnetic levitation variable-pitch welding equipment in this embodiment also includes a control mechanism. The welder 220, the camera 230, the lifting mechanism 400, and the variable-pitch protection mechanism 500 are respectively connected to the control mechanism. In actual production and processing, operators can adjust the above structures in real time through the control mechanism, thereby improving the flexibility of the equipment. Parameters can also be preset through the control mechanism, thereby improving the automation level of the equipment.

[0062] Example 2:

[0063] This embodiment provides a module welding method, which uses the module magnetic levitation variable pitch welding equipment described in Embodiment 1 to perform module welding processing, and includes:

[0064] Step S1: Transfer the module to be welded to the welding space.

[0065] Step S2: The module 700 to be welded is lifted for the first time to detach it from the transmission line 300. Further, in this embodiment, the lifting mechanism 400 performs a second-stage lifting of the module 700 to be welded. Specifically, in this embodiment, the driving member 421 moves for the first time along the first direction X, thereby causing the driven member 422 to move along the first-stage lifting ramp 4211 to the first-stage buffer surface 4212.

[0066] Step S3: Take pictures of the marked points on the module to be welded 700 to identify them in order to determine the pole spacing on this module.

[0067] Step S4: Adjust the position of the protective positioning component 520 according to the pole spacing so that the multiple copper nozzles 524 on the protective positioning component 520 correspond one-to-one with the poles on the module 700 to be welded in the vertical direction.

[0068] Step S5: The module 700 to be welded is lifted a second time until the poles on the module 700 to be welded abut against the corresponding copper nozzles 524. Specifically, in this embodiment, the driving member 421 moves a second time along the first direction X, thereby moving the driven member 422 along the secondary lifting ramp 4213 to the secondary buffer surface 4214. Thus, the lifting mechanism 400 lifts the module 700 to be welded a second time until the poles on the module 700 to be welded abut against the bottom surface of the corresponding copper nozzles 524. During this process, the elastic member 525 is gradually compressed at the top of the copper nozzles 524 to buffer the pressing process of the copper nozzles 524.

[0069] Step S6: Weld multiple pole pieces to be welded in sequence, while supplying protective gas to the welding sites through copper nozzle 524 to complete the module welding process.

[0070] In summary, the module magnetic levitation variable-pitch welding equipment and module welding method described in this invention transmit the module 700 to be welded via the transmission line 300. The lifting mechanism 400 performs a secondary lifting of the module 700. The first lifting is used in conjunction with the camera 230 to identify the position of the module's electrode post. Then, the variable-pitch protection mechanism 500 adjusts the position of the protective positioning component 520 accordingly, thereby achieving a one-to-one correspondence between the copper nozzle 524 and the battery cell electrode post. Next, the second lifting by the lifting mechanism 400 achieves a tight fit between the module 700 to be welded and the copper nozzle 524, providing a welding reference and supplying protective gas for the welder 220. Finally, welding is performed by the welder 220, achieving a high-precision welding process. Compared with existing conventional welding technologies, this application has advantages such as high automation, strong controllability, wide applicability, high processing accuracy, high welding efficiency, and stable welding quality, providing a brand-new automated equipment for module processing.

[0071] Obviously, the above embodiments are merely illustrative examples for clear explanation and are not intended to limit the implementation. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other variations or modifications can be made based on the above description. It is neither necessary nor possible to exhaustively list all possible implementations here. However, obvious variations or modifications derived therefrom are still within the scope of protection of this invention.

Claims

1. A modular magnetic levitation variable-pitch welding device, characterized in that: include: The welding identification mechanism includes an adjustment frame, a welder, and a camera. The adjustment frame has a welding space inside, and the welder and the camera are slidably connected to the adjustment frame and move within the welding space. A transmission line body extends through the welding space along a first direction, and the module to be welded is moved into the welding space through the transmission line body. A lifting mechanism is disposed on the extension path of the transmission line body. It includes a secondary lifting assembly and a support platform. The secondary lifting assembly includes a driving member and a driven member. The driving member and the driven member can move relative to each other along the first direction. The driving member is disposed below the transmission line body and includes a primary lifting ramp and a secondary lifting ramp extending obliquely along the height direction of the driving member in the first direction. The top end of the primary lifting ramp is connected to the bottom end of the secondary lifting ramp. The driven member includes a driven frame and a roller. The roller is rotatably connected to the bottom of the driven frame and rolls on the primary lifting ramp or the secondary lifting ramp of the driving member to drive the driven frame to move up and down. The support platform is connected to the top surface of the driven frame to lift the module to be welded. A variable-pitch protection mechanism includes a fixed frame and multiple protective positioning components. The fixed frame is located on one side of the transmission line and has a magnetic track on it. Each protective positioning component includes a magnetically levitated mover and multiple copper nozzles connected to each other. The magnetically levitated mover is slidably connected to the magnetic track to adjust the spacing between adjacent protective positioning components. The copper nozzles can abut against the module to be welded, and the welder contacts the electrode to be welded through the copper nozzles.

2. The modular magnetic levitation variable-pitch welding equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The lifting mechanism further includes an assembly platform, on which at least one guide module extending along the first direction is provided, and a slider is provided at the bottom of the driving component, the slider being slidably connected to the guide module.

3. The modular magnetic levitation variable-pitch welding equipment according to claim 2, characterized in that: The support platform is provided with a positioning pin, side blocks and guide posts. The positioning pin protrudes from the upper surface of the support platform and can be inserted into the positioning hole at the bottom of the module to be welded. Multiple side blocks are provided on the edge of the support platform in the second direction. The guide posts extend along the height direction of the lifting mechanism, with one end connected to the support platform and the other end sliding through the assembly platform.

4. The modular magnetic levitation variable-pitch welding equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The driving component further includes a primary cache surface and a secondary cache surface, both of which extend along the first direction. The two ends of the primary cache surface are respectively connected to the top end of the primary lifting ramp and the bottom end of the secondary lifting ramp, and the secondary cache surface is connected to the top end of the secondary lifting ramp. The driven component can be supported and cached on the primary cache surface or the secondary cache surface.

5. The modular magnetic levitation variable-pitch welding equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The secondary lifting assembly includes at least two driving components, at least two driven components, a connecting frame, and a driver. The at least two driving components and at least two driven components are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence. The driver is located at one end of the connecting frame, and all driving components are connected to the connecting frame so as to move synchronously along the first direction via the driver.

6. The modular magnetic levitation variable-pitch welding equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The lifting mechanism also includes two limiting components, which are respectively disposed at both ends of the support platform in the first direction. Each limiting component includes a stop driver and a stop pin. The stop pin is disposed at the power output end of the stop driver and moves along the height direction of the lifting mechanism to stop / avoid the support platform.

7. The modular magnetic levitation variable-pitch welding equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The protective positioning component also includes a linkage plate and a heat insulation plate. The linkage plate is connected to the magnetic levitation mover, and the heat insulation plate is connected to the linkage plate and extends in the horizontal direction. The copper nozzle is located in the middle of the heat insulation plate.

8. The modular magnetic levitation variable-pitch welding equipment according to claim 7, characterized in that: The protective positioning component also includes a floating assembly frame and multiple elastic elements. The floating assembly frame is disposed on the heat insulation plate, and the multiple elastic elements are respectively connected between the floating assembly frame and the copper nozzle.

9. The modular magnetic levitation variable-pitch welding equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The variable pitch protection mechanism also includes multiple gas transmission pipelines and multiple flow valves. The multiple gas transmission pipelines are respectively connected to multiple copper nozzles, and the multiple flow valves are respectively arranged on the multiple gas transmission pipelines.

10. The modular magnetic levitation variable-pitch welding equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The adjustment frame includes a first horizontal module, a second horizontal module, a lifting slide, and a mounting base. The second horizontal module extends along a second direction. The first horizontal module is slidably connected to the second horizontal module and extends along the first direction. The lifting slide is slidably connected to the first horizontal module and has a lifting module on it. The mounting base is slidably connected to the lifting module. The welder and the camera are both mounted on the mounting base.

11. The modular magnetic levitation variable-pitch welding equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The module magnetic levitation variable pitch welding equipment also includes a mounting plate and at least two steps. The identification welding mechanism is supported on the mounting plate. The mounting plate is provided with at least two processing stations. Each processing station is provided with a transmission line, the lifting mechanism and the variable pitch protection mechanism. The steps are arranged one-to-one with the processing stations.

12. The modular magnetic levitation variable-pitch welding equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The module magnetic levitation variable pitch welding equipment also includes a control mechanism, and the welder, the camera, the lifting mechanism and the variable pitch protection mechanism are respectively connected to the control mechanism.

13. A module welding method, characterized in that: The module welding process is performed using the module magnetic levitation variable pitch welding equipment according to any one of claims 1 to 12, which includes: Step S1: Transfer the module to be welded to the welding space; Step S2: Lift the module to be welded for the first time to detach it from the transmission line. Step S3: Take pictures of the marked points on the module to be welded to determine the pole spacing on this module; Step S4: Adjust the position of the protective positioning component according to the pole spacing so that the multiple copper nozzles on the protective positioning component correspond one-to-one with the poles on the module to be welded in the vertical direction. Step S5: Lift the module to be welded a second time until the poles on the module to be welded abut against the corresponding copper nozzles. Step S6: Weld multiple pole pieces to be welded in sequence, while supplying protective gas to the welding sites through copper nozzles to complete the module welding process.

14. The module welding method according to claim 13, characterized in that: The module to be welded is lifted in two stages by a lifting mechanism. In step S2, the driving component moves for the first time along the first direction, and then the driven component moves along the first-stage lifting ramp to the first-stage buffer surface. In step S5, the driving component moves for the second time along the first direction, and then the driven component moves along the second-stage lifting ramp to the second-stage buffer surface.

15. The module welding method according to claim 13, characterized in that: Step S5 specifically involves: using a lifting mechanism to lift the module to be welded a second time until the poles on the module to be welded abut against the bottom surfaces of the corresponding copper nozzles. During this process, the elastic element is gradually compressed at the top of the copper nozzles to buffer the pressing process of the copper nozzles.

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