Insertion device

Abstract

An insertion device according to an embodiment of the present invention is an insertion device for inserting an electrode assembly unit into a battery can, the electrode assembly unit comprising an electrode assembly and a first current collector coupled to one surface of the electrode assembly, and the insertion device comprising: a can holder for holding the battery can; a lower stopper that supports the electrode assembly unit from below and is movable in a direction parallel to a central axis of the electrode assembly unit; and a blower provided on the lower stopper and capable of injecting air into the electrode assembly unit in the direction of the battery can.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an insertion device. More specifically, this disclosure relates to an insertion device for inserting an electrode assembly unit into a battery canister.

[0002] This application is based on and claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0191776 filed with the Korean Intellectual Property Office on December 26, 2023, and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0039950 filed with the Korean Intellectual Property Office on March 22, 2024, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Background Technology

[0003] Secondary batteries, characterized by high applicability across product groups and electrical properties such as high energy density, are typically used not only in portable devices but also in electric vehicles (EVs) or hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) powered by these batteries. Such secondary batteries are gaining attention as a new energy source for improving eco-friendliness and energy efficiency because they offer the key advantage of significantly reducing fossil fuel use and do not produce byproducts from energy consumption.

[0004] Currently widely used rechargeable batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. The operating voltage of a single rechargeable battery cell (i.e., a single battery cell) is approximately 2.5V to 4.5V. Therefore, if a higher output voltage is required, multiple battery cells can be connected in series to form a battery pack. Furthermore, depending on the required charging and discharging capacity of the battery pack, multiple battery cells can be connected in parallel to form a battery pack. Therefore, the number of battery cells included in a battery pack can be set differently according to the required output voltage and / or the required charging and discharging capacity.

[0005] Simultaneously, during the manufacturing process of the cylindrical secondary battery, an insertion process is performed to insert the electrode assembly into the battery canister. In this insertion process, the electrode assembly is inserted into the battery canister from bottom to top.

[0006] Meanwhile, the insertion devices of some electrode assemblies in traditional 4680 and 4695 cells have structures that are detrimental to the process due to loosening of the electrode assembly core reorganization caused by the expulsion of air from the canister. Furthermore, various problems arise due to the loosening of the core reorganization during post-processing operations. Additionally, during cathode riveting (CRW), there are issues with separator damage and reduced battery capacity and lifespan. More specifically, separator deformation occurs due to irregular core flow at the positive current collector located at the bottom of the electrode assembly. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Technical issues

[0008] Therefore, in order to solve the above problems, this disclosure aims to reduce pressure and prevent diaphragm deformation by injecting air when venting air from inside the battery can during the insertion process of the electrode assembly.

[0009] In addition, this disclosure aims to improve core impact by reducing the degree of reforming loosening, thereby increasing battery capacity and life.

[0010] Furthermore, this disclosure also aims to reduce damage to the diaphragm of the electrode assembly and improve process efficiency.

[0011] In addition, this disclosure is also intended to reduce costs.

[0012] However, the technical problems to be solved by this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art can clearly understand from the following description of this disclosure other problems not mentioned herein.

[0013] Technical solution

[0014] An insertion device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is provided to address the aforementioned problems by inserting an electrode assembly unit into a battery can. The electrode assembly unit includes an electrode assembly and a first current collector coupled to a surface of the electrode assembly. The insertion device includes: a can retainer that holds the battery can; a lower stop that supports the electrode assembly unit from below and is configured to be movable in a direction parallel to the central axis of the electrode assembly unit; and a blower disposed on the lower stop and configured to inject air into the electrode assembly unit in a direction toward the battery can.

[0015] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a first current collector may be coupled to the surface of the electrode assembly along the direction toward the battery can.

[0016] Preferably, the area of ​​the first current collector can be smaller than the area of ​​one surface of the electrode assembly.

[0017] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the lower stop can be configured to insert the electrode assembly unit into the battery canister.

[0018] Preferably, the lower stop can be configured to push the electrode assembly unit located below the can upward to push the electrode assembly unit toward the opening of the battery can.

[0019] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the blower can be configured to inject air toward the winding center of the electrode assembly unit.

[0020] Preferably, the blower can be configured to inject air along the insertion direction of the electrode assembly unit.

[0021] More preferably, the blower can be configured to inject air from bottom to top in a direction parallel to the central axis of the electrode assembly unit.

[0022] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the blower can be configured to counteract the pressure acting on the winding center hole region of the electrode assembly.

[0023] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the blower can be configured to inject air such that the difference between the internal pressure of the battery tank and the external pressure of the battery tank is 5 millibars (mbar) or less.

[0024] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the blower can be configured to operate after the electrode assembly unit has been inserted into the battery can along a predetermined length in the longitudinal direction.

[0025] Preferably, the blower can be configured to operate after the electrode assembly unit has been inserted into the battery can at one-third of its length in the longitudinal direction.

[0026] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the blower can be configured to inject air such that the diameter of the winding center of the electrode assembly unit after deformation is greater than 75% of the diameter of the winding center of the electrode assembly unit before deformation.

[0027] Preferably, the blower can be configured to inject air such that the pressure inside the battery canister is less than or equal to the value at which the shape of the winding center of the electrode assembly unit does not deform.

[0028] Beneficial effects

[0029] According to this disclosure, when air is vented from inside the battery canister during the electrode assembly insertion process, pressure can be reduced by injecting air to prevent diaphragm deformation.

[0030] Furthermore, according to this disclosure, battery capacity and lifespan can be improved by reducing core impact through reduced reforming loosening.

[0031] Furthermore, according to this disclosure, damage to the diaphragm of the electrode assembly can be reduced and process capability can be improved.

[0032] Furthermore, cost reduction can be achieved according to this disclosure.

[0033] However, the effects obtained through this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and other effects not mentioned herein can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0034] The accompanying drawings illustrate preferred embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the foregoing disclosure, serve to provide a further understanding of the technical features of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure is not to be construed as limited to the drawings.

[0035] Figure 1 This is a view illustrating an insertion device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 2 It is described in Figure 1 A view of the process of inserting an electrode assembly unit into a battery canister using an insertion device.

[0037] Figure 3 This is a view depicting the process of inserting the electrode assembly unit into the battery can.

[0038] Figure 4 It is a view depicting the movement of air during the insertion of the electrode assembly unit into the battery canister.

[0039] Figure 5 It describes when it happens Figure 4 The view shown illustrates the direction in which air is injected into the electrode assembly unit during air movement.

[0040] Figure 6 It describes when it happens Figure 4 The diagram shows the process by which air injected into the electrode assembly unit moves within the electrode assembly during air movement.

[0041] Figure 7 It is described in Figures 4 to 6 A view of the area of ​​the electrode assembly affected by air during the process.

[0042] Figure 8 It describes the electrode assembly in Figures 4 to 6 A view of the state of deformation due to air influence during the process.

[0043] Figure 9 This is a view illustrating the process of injecting air into the electrode assembly and battery canister via a blower in an insertion device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] Figure 10 This is a view depicting the air movement path of a blower in an insertion device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Figure 11 This is an enlarged view of the winding center hole of the electrode assembly inserted into the battery can by the insertion device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0046] Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Before the description, it should be understood that the terminology used in the specification and appended claims should not be construed as limited to its general or dictionary meaning, but rather interpreted based on the meaning and concept corresponding to the technical aspects of the present disclosure, on the basis of allowing the inventors to appropriately define the terminology for best explanation.

[0047] Therefore, the description presented herein is merely a preferred example for illustrative purposes and is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. It should be understood that other equivalents and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0048] In addition, to aid in understanding this disclosure, the accompanying drawings are not drawn to scale, but some dimensions of the components may be exaggerated.

[0049] In the manufacturing process of cylindrical secondary batteries, an insertion process is performed to insert electrode assembly units EA into the battery canister C. During this process, the electrode assembly units EA are inserted into the battery canister C from bottom to top. However, some electrode assembly E insertion devices, such as those used in conventional 4680 and 4695 cells, have structures detrimental to the process due to loosening of the core remodeling caused by the expulsion of air from the canister. The reforming process is a process that ensures the circular space within the core by processing the separator located in the core of the electrode assembly E. Furthermore, various problems arise due to the loosening of the core remodeling during post-processing operations. Additionally, during cathode riveting (CRW, a welding process between the positive electrode assembly and terminals), there are problems with separator damage and reduced battery capacity and lifespan. More specifically, separator deformation occurs due to irregular core flow of the positive current collector located at one end of the electrode assembly E.

[0050] This disclosure recognizes these problems and is configured to include a blower for injecting air into the insertion device 1, and will be referred to below. Figures 1 to 11 This specific structure of the disclosure will be described in detail.

[0051] Figure 1 This is a view depicting the insertion device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 2 It is described in Figure 1 A view of the process of inserting the electrode assembly unit EA into the battery canister C in the insertion device 1. Figure 3 This is a view depicting the process of inserting the electrode assembly unit EA into the battery canister C.

[0052] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the insertion device 1 includes a can retainer 10, a lower stop 20, and a blower 30. The insertion device 1 may be an insertion device 1 for inserting an electrode assembly unit EA into a battery can C, wherein the electrode assembly unit EA includes an electrode assembly E and a first current collector P1 connected to a surface of the electrode assembly E.

[0053] More specifically, the insertion device 1 may include: a can holder 10 that holds the battery can C; a lower stop 20 that supports the electrode assembly unit EA from below and is configured to move in a direction parallel to the central axis of the electrode assembly unit EA; and a blower 30 disposed on the lower stop 20 and configured to inject air into the electrode assembly unit EA in a direction toward the battery can C.

[0054] According to this structure, when air inside the battery tank C is expelled during the electrode assembly E insertion process, pressure reduction through air injection can prevent separator deformation. Furthermore, according to the above structure, by reducing reforming loosening, battery capacity and lifespan can be improved due to reduced core impact. Therefore, damage to the separator of the electrode assembly E can be reduced, and process capability can be improved.

[0055] In one aspect of this disclosure, the electrode assembly unit EA may include an electrode assembly E, a first current collector P1, and a second current collector P2. That is, the electrode assembly unit EA may be in a state where the first current collector P1 and the second current collector P2 are connected to the electrode assembly E.

[0056] The electrode assembly E includes a first electrode having a first polarity, a second electrode having a second polarity, and a diaphragm inserted between the first electrode and the second electrode. The first electrode is either a positive or negative electrode, and the second electrode corresponds to an electrode with a polarity opposite to that of the first electrode.

[0057] The electrode assembly E may have, for example, a wound core structure. That is, the electrode assembly E can be manufactured by winding a first electrode plate and a second electrode plate with a diaphragm inserted between them in one direction along a central hole H1, forming a laminate at least once. In this case, an additional diaphragm can be provided on the outer peripheral surface of the electrode assembly E to insulate it from the battery canister C. Any wound core structure known in the art can be applied without limitation to this disclosure.

[0058] The first electrode includes a first electrode plate and a first electrode active material coated on one or both surfaces of the first electrode plate. A first uncoated portion, without the first electrode active material, exists at one end of the first electrode plate along its width. This first uncoated portion, serving as a first electrode connector, will be referred to hereinafter as the first uncoated portion. The first uncoated portion is disposed at the upper part of the electrode assembly E housed in the battery can C along its height. That is, the first electrode plate includes a first uncoated portion, which has no active material layer coated on its long side end and is exposed to the outside of the separator, and a portion of the first uncoated portion itself serves as an electrode connector. The first uncoated portion may be, for example, a positive electrode connector.

[0059] Meanwhile, at least a portion of the first uncoated portion may include multiple segments divided along the winding direction of the electrode assembly E. In this case, the multiple segments may be bent in the radial direction of the electrode assembly E. The multiple bent segments may overlap in multiple layers. In this case, the first current collector P1, which will be described later, may be connected to the region where the multiple segments overlap in multiple layers.

[0060] The second electrode includes a second electrode plate and a second electrode active material coated on one or both surfaces of the second electrode plate. A second uncoated portion, without the second electrode active material, exists at the other end of the second electrode plate along its width. This second uncoated portion, serving as a second electrode connector, will be referred to hereinafter as the second uncoated portion. The second uncoated portion is disposed at the lower part of the electrode assembly E housed in the battery can C along its height direction. That is, the second electrode plate includes a second uncoated portion, which has no active material layer coated on its long side end and is exposed to the outside of the separator, and at least a portion of the second uncoated portion itself serves as an electrode connector. The second uncoated portion can be, for example, a negative electrode connector. Simultaneously, at least a portion of the second uncoated portion can include multiple segments divided along the winding direction of the electrode assembly E. In this case, the multiple segments can be bent along the radial direction of the electrode assembly E. The multiple bent segments can overlap in multiple layers. In this case, the second current collector P2 can be connected to the region where the multiple segments overlap in multiple layers. In this disclosure, the positive electrode active material coated on the positive electrode plate and the negative electrode active material coated on the negative electrode plate can be used without limitation, as long as they are active materials known in the art.

[0061] The battery canister C can be configured to include an opening C1 on one side and to accommodate the electrode assembly E through the opening C1.

[0062] Specifically, the battery can C is a generally cylindrical container with an opening C1 formed at the bottom, and is made of a conductive material such as metal. The material of the battery can C may include, for example, steel, stainless steel, nickel-plated iron, etc. The upper surface opposite the opening C1 is referred to as the closure C2. The sidewalls of the battery can C and the closure C2 may be integrally formed. Alternatively, the sidewalls of the battery can C and the closure C2 may be separately disposed and then joined together by welding or the like. The upper surface of the battery can C (the surface parallel to the XY plane) (i.e., the outer surface of the closure C2) may have a generally flat shape. The battery can C can accommodate the electrode assembly E through the opening C1 formed at the bottom.

[0063] Battery can C is electrically connected to electrode assembly E. Battery can C is also electrically connected to, for example, a second uncoated portion of electrode assembly E. In this case, battery can C and the second uncoated portion have the same polarity.

[0064] The first current collector P1 can be housed inside the battery canister C and can be electrically connected to the electrode assembly E. The first current collector P1 can be, for example, generally plate-shaped. The first current collector P1 can be inserted between the first uncoated portion and the terminal 50. That is, the first current collector P1 can have the same electrode as the first uncoated portion. The first current collector P1 can be connected to the curved surface of the first uncoated portion. The first current collector P1 can be, for example, a positive current collector.

[0065] The second current collector P2 can be housed inside the battery canister C, electrically connected to the electrode assembly E, and also electrically connected to the battery canister C. That is, the second current collector P2 is electrically connected to the electrode assembly E and the battery canister C. The second current collector P2 can have, for example, a generally plate-like shape. Preferably, the second current collector P2 can be electrically connected to the second uncoated portion and the rolled edge portion 21 of the battery canister C. The second current collector P2 can be, for example, a negative electrode current collector.

[0066] In other words, the electrode assembly unit EA can be configured such that a first current collector P1 is connected to one surface of the electrode assembly E, and a second current collector P2 is connected to a surface of the electrode assembly E opposite to the surface connected to the first current collector P1. For example, refer to... Figure 3 The first current collector P1 can be connected to the upper surface of the electrode assembly E. More specifically, the first current collector P1 can be connected to the surface of the electrode assembly E along the direction towards the battery canister C. Conversely, the second current collector P2 can be connected to the lower surface of the electrode assembly E. The second current collector P2 can be connected to the surface of the electrode assembly E opposite to the surface of the electrode assembly E along the direction towards the battery canister C. In this case, the electrode assembly E and the current collectors P1 and P2 can be connected by, for example, welding.

[0067] When manufacturing a cylindrical secondary battery, the insertion device 1 can be configured to insert the electrode assembly unit EA in the form of a coil into the cylindrical battery canister C.

[0068] Here, the can holder 10 can be configured to hold the battery can C. The can holder 10 may have a shape capable of clamping a cylindrical battery can C. For example, the can holder 10 may be configured as a clamp with its inner surface cut into a cylindrical shape to clamp a cylindrical shape. The can holder 10 may be configured to hold at least a portion of the battery can C in the longitudinal direction. For example, refer to… Figure 1 and Figure 2 The can holder 10 can hold the battery can C at two points along the longitudinal direction of the battery can C. However, it is obvious that the can holder 10 of this disclosure is not limited to this shape. Any can holder 10 capable of holding the battery can C will be considered to be included within the scope of the can holder 10 of this disclosure.

[0069] In one aspect of this disclosure, the can holder 10 can hold the can such that the opening C1 of the can faces downwards and the closing portion C2 of the can faces upwards. For example, see reference... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The can holder 10 holds the battery can C such that the opening C1 of the battery can C faces downward and the closing part C2 of the battery can C faces upward. That is, the electrode assembly unit EA can be inserted into the opening C1 of the battery can C located at the bottom of the battery can C and moved toward the closing part C2 located at the top of the battery can C.

[0070] In this manner, the battery can C is configured such that its opening C1 faces downward and its closed portion C2 faces upward in order to insert the electrode assembly unit EA upward. For example, if the electrode assembly unit EA is inserted downward, a free-fall method can be used. However, the problem with this free-fall method is that the insertion speed may not be controllable, and positive pressure may be generated. On the other hand, inserting the electrode assembly unit EA downward while holding it may unnecessarily complicate the structure of the can holder 10, which may lead to problems such as an increase in management points and reduced manufacturability. Therefore, it is preferable to insert the electrode assembly unit EA upward, and according to the above-described structure of this disclosure, the electrode assembly unit EA can be inserted in a direction from bottom to top. Therefore, the electrode assembly unit EA can be inserted with a simple structure while minimizing the generation of positive pressure. That is, according to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The process involves supplying the battery canister C to the insertion device 1 via this canister holder 10.

[0071] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The lower stop 20 can be configured to insert the electrode assembly unit EA into the battery canister C.

[0072] Specifically, the lower stop 20 can be configured to support the electrode assembly unit EA from below. Furthermore, the lower stop 20 can be configured to move in a direction parallel to the central axis of the electrode assembly unit EA. For example, the lower stop 20 can push the electrode assembly unit EA located below the can upwards to push the electrode assembly unit EA toward the opening C1 of the battery can C. That is, in Figure 1 In this state, the lower stop 20 can push the electrode assembly unit EA upward. Therefore, the electrode assembly unit EA passes through the opening C1 of the battery can C and rises towards the closed portion of the battery can C, which may cause... Figure 2 The state.

[0073] In another aspect of this disclosure, the lower stop 20 can be configured in a generally cylindrical shape. That is, the lower stop 20 can be configured in the form of a generally elongated rod, and the central axis of the rod can coincide with the central axis of the electrode assembly unit EA.

[0074] In one aspect of this disclosure, the radius of the lower stop 20 can be configured to be larger than the radius of the winding center hole H1 of the electrode assembly unit EA. For example, the radius of the cylindrical lower stop 20 can be configured to be slightly larger than the radius of the winding center hole H1 of the electrode assembly unit EA.

[0075] According to this structure, the radius of the lower stop 20 is larger than the radius of the winding center hole H1 of the electrode assembly unit EA, allowing the lower stop 20 to support the electrode assembly unit EA and the second current collector P2 from below. Furthermore, since the radius of the cylindrical lower stop 20 is slightly larger than the radius of the winding center hole H1 of the electrode assembly unit EA, the contact area between the lower stop 20 and the electrode assembly unit EA can be minimized. As a result, the probability of damage to the electrode assembly unit EA can be minimized.

[0076] In another embodiment, the radius of the lower stop 20 can be configured to be greater than the radius of the second current collector hole formed at the center of the second current collector P2 connected to the electrode assembly unit EA. For example, the radius of the lower stop 20 can be configured to be greater than the radius of the second current collector hole and less than or equal to the radius of the central region of the second current collector P2.

[0077] According to this structure, the radius of the lower stop 20 is larger than the radius of the second current collector hole, so that the lower stop 20 can support the electrode assembly unit EA and the second current collector P2 from below. In addition, since the radius of the lower stop 20 is less than or equal to the radius of the central region of the second current collector P2, the legs of the second current collector P2 extending from the outer periphery of the central region may not be affected by the lower stop 20.

[0078] In another aspect of this disclosure, the lower stop 20 may comprise a polyetheretherketone (PEEK) material. According to this embodiment, damage can be minimized even if the lower stop 20 comes into contact with the electrode assembly unit EA and / or the second current collector P2.

[0079] Refer again Figure 1 and Figure 2 The blower 30 can be mounted on the lower stop 20. The blower 30 can be configured to inject air into the electrode assembly unit EA in a direction toward the battery tank C.

[0080] The blower 30 may include a positive pressure generator 31 that generates positive pressure and an air duct 32 that can move air.

[0081] The positive pressure generator 31 can be, for example, a blower. The air generated from the positive pressure generator 31 can move toward the electrode assembly unit EA through the air duct 32.

[0082] In one aspect of this disclosure, the air duct 32 can be configured to be embedded inside the lower stop 20. For example, see reference to... Figure 1 and Figure 2 A cylindrical air duct 32 can be disposed within the cylindrical lower stop 20. Therefore, air generated from the positive pressure generator 31 can flow along the air duct 32 to reach the electrode assembly E. More specifically, air can be injected toward the winding center hole H1 of the electrode assembly E.

[0083] Figure 4 This is a view depicting the movement of air during the process of inserting the electrode assembly unit EA into the battery canister C. Figure 5 It describes when it happens Figure 4 The view shown depicts the direction in which air is injected into the electrode assembly unit EA during air movement. Figure 6 It describes when it happens Figure 4 The diagram shows the process by which air injected into electrode assembly unit EA moves within electrode assembly E during air movement.

[0084] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 Using the insertion device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the electrode assembly unit EA can be inserted upward toward the battery canister C. More specifically, as the lower stop 20 supporting the electrode assembly unit EA rises upward, the electrode assembly unit EA can be inserted into the battery canister C. During this process, as... Figure 4 As shown, the trapped air inside the battery tank C can be discharged to the outside of the battery tank C through the winding center hole H1 of the electrode assembly E.

[0085] At the same time, from Figure 4It is known that the first current collector P1 is connected to one surface of the electrode assembly E. In this case, the area of ​​the first current collector P1 can be smaller than the area of ​​one surface of the electrode assembly E. For example, the first current collector P1 can be a plate-like structure with a generally disc-shaped interior and partially perforated interior. However, for welding connection to the battery terminals, the first current collector P1 can have a shape without perforation in the center. In other words, since the center is blocked, the first current collector P1 can have a structure that covers the coiled central hole H1 of the electrode assembly E. However, since the electrode assembly E and the first current collector P1 are not welded to all their surfaces in contact with each other, a small gap may exist between the first current collector P1 and the electrode assembly E. Therefore, from... Figure 5 It can be seen that when air flows into the electrode assembly E through the perforated area of ​​the first current collector P1, the flowing air can follow... Figure 6 The arrow path moves towards the winding center hole H1 of electrode assembly E. At this point, refer again... Figure 4 and Figure 6 The diameter of the winding center hole H1 of the electrode assembly E is significantly smaller than the internal diameter of the battery canister C, thereby the flow rate through the winding center hole H1 can be increased relatively significantly.

[0086] Figure 7 It is described in Figures 4 to 6 A view of the area of ​​electrode assembly E affected by air during the process, and Figure 8 This describes the electrode assembly E in Figures 4 to 6 A view of the state of deformation due to air influence during the process.

[0087] In another aspect of this disclosure, the diaphragm constituting the interior of the winding center hole H1 has low stiffness due to its thinness and weak bonding force through the contact core, making the diaphragm located inside the winding center hole H1 susceptible to radial deformation due to fluid flowing along the total height direction. For example, refer to... Figure 7 Due to the shape of the first current collector P1, air can flow in the direction of the arrow into the diaphragm located near the wound center hole H1 of the electrode assembly E. As a result, as... Figure 8 As shown, the diaphragm located inside the winding center hole H1 may deform radially due to the fluid flowing along the total height direction. That is, near the winding center hole H1 of the electrode assembly E, flow resistance may occur due to the sudden change in diameter. Therefore, the pressure p1 inside the battery tank C may increase.

[0088] For example, suppose the cross-sectional area of ​​battery can C is approximately 1597.51 mm². 2 The cross-sectional area of ​​the winding center hole H1 of electrode assembly E is approximately 75.84 mm². 2Furthermore, with a PPM of approximately 130, if the insertion speed of the electrode assembly unit EA is approximately 42.55 cm / s, the air velocity flowing into the winding center hole H1 of the electrode assembly E becomes approximately 896.28 cm / s, indicating a rapid increase in velocity. This means that due to this drastically increased velocity, the diaphragm surrounding the winding center hole H1 may inevitably suffer deformation. However, according to the blower 30 of this disclosure, by significantly reducing the difference between the velocity and pressure p1 inside the battery tank C, deformation of the diaphragm surrounding the winding center hole H1 can be effectively prevented. This will be referred to... Figures 9 to 11 To provide a more detailed description.

[0089] Figure 9 This is a view illustrating the process of injecting air into the electrode assembly E and the battery canister C by a blower in the insertion device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 10 This is a view depicting the air movement path of the blower in the insertion device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 11 This is an enlarged view of the winding center hole H1 of the electrode assembly E inserted into the battery can C by the insertion device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0090] In one aspect of this disclosure, the blower 30 can be configured to inject air toward the winding center hole H1 of the electrode assembly unit EA.

[0091] For example, refer to Figure 9 Air conduit 32 is embedded inside the lower stop 20 on the lower surface of the supporting electrode assembly unit EA. Therefore, air generated from the positive pressure generator 31 can be injected into the electrode assembly unit EA through air conduit 32. More specifically, air can be injected toward the winding center of the electrode assembly E.

[0092] Preferably, the blower 30 can be configured to inject air along the insertion direction of the electrode assembly unit EA. For example, refer to Figure 9 The electrode assembly unit EA can be inserted into the battery canister C while moving from bottom to top along a direction parallel to the central axis of the electrode assembly unit EA. Therefore, the blower 30 can be configured to inject air from bottom to top along a direction parallel to the central axis of the electrode assembly unit EA.

[0093] In another aspect of this disclosure, the blower 30 can be configured to counteract the pressure acting on the region of the winding center hole H1 of the electrode assembly E.

[0094] For example, refer to Figure 10Blower 30 can inject air toward the winding center hole H1 of electrode assembly E. Simultaneously, once the cross-sectional area of ​​battery canister C and the cross-sectional area of ​​winding center hole H1 of electrode assembly E are determined, the airflow rate through winding center hole H1 can be calculated based on the insertion speed of electrode assembly E. By substituting this value into Bernoulli's equation, the pressure p1 acting inside battery canister C when electrode assembly unit EA is inserted can be calculated. Finally, when the pressure p1 acting inside battery canister C when electrode assembly unit EA is inserted approaches atmospheric pressure, it can be seen that the pressure acting on the region of winding center hole H1 of electrode assembly E is offset. In other words, blower 30 can calculate the air pressure capable of offsetting the pressure acting on the region of winding center hole H1 of electrode assembly E and inject air equal to the calculated value into winding center hole H1 of electrode assembly E. As a result, according to the above configuration, the pressure on the weak parts of the separator can be offset, thus effectively reducing the degree of reforming loosening. Therefore, battery capacity and lifespan can be improved.

[0095] In another aspect of this disclosure, the blower 30 can be configured to inject air such that the difference between the internal pressure p1 of the battery tank C and the external pressure p2 of the battery tank C is about 5 millibars or less.

[0096] For example, refer to Figure 10 Based on the case where the diameter of the winding center hole H1 of the electrode assembly E is approximately 6 mm, the inventors of this disclosure have demonstrated that when the difference between the internal pressure p1 and the external pressure p2 of the battery can C is greater than approximately 10 mbar, the diaphragm near the winding center hole H1 deforms. On the other hand, when the pressure difference between the internal pressure p1 and the external pressure p2 of the battery can C is reduced to approximately 5 mbar by the pressure offset by the blower 30, it can be demonstrated that the diaphragm near the winding center hole H1 does not deform.

[0097] Therefore, according to the above configuration of this disclosure, the difference between the internal pressure p1 of the battery tank C and the external pressure p2 of the battery tank C can be kept at a minute value, thereby effectively preventing the deformation behavior of the diaphragm.

[0098] In another aspect of this disclosure, the blower 30 can be configured to operate after the electrode assembly unit EA has been inserted into the battery can C for a predetermined length in the longitudinal direction.

[0099] For example, refer to Figure 10The blower 30 can be configured to operate after the electrode assembly unit EA has been inserted into the battery canister C at approximately 1 / 3 to 1 / 2 of its longitudinal position. During the insertion of the electrode assembly unit EA, after it has been inserted into the battery canister C at approximately 1 / 3 to 1 / 2 of its position, internal hydraulic pressure is released and affects the core, thereby preferably pressure relief is achieved by operating the blower 30 after this position. Simultaneously, air injection can occur temporarily when the electrode assembly unit EA has been inserted into the battery canister C at approximately 1 / 3 to 1 / 2 of its position, or it can occur continuously after the electrode assembly unit EA has been inserted into the battery canister C at approximately 1 / 3 to 1 / 2 of its position.

[0100] In another aspect of this disclosure, the blower 30 can be configured to inject air such that the diameter of the winding center of the electrode assembly unit EA after deformation is about 75% larger than the diameter of the winding center of the electrode assembly unit EA before deformation.

[0101] For example, refer to Figure 10 If the diameter of the winding center hole H1 before the electrode assembly E is deformed is approximately 6 mm, and if the diameter of the deformed winding center hole H1 after the insertion process of the electrode assembly unit EA becomes less than approximately 4.5 mm, it confirms that the diaphragm was excessively damaged during the cathode riveting (CRW) process for welding the terminals and the first current collector P1, resulting in a corresponding reduction in battery capacity and lifespan. Therefore, preferably, the diameter of the deformed winding center hole H1 after the insertion process of the electrode assembly unit EA is greater than approximately 4.5 mm. That is, preferably, the diameter of the winding center after the deformation of the electrode assembly unit EA is greater than approximately 75% of the diameter of the winding center before the deformation of the electrode assembly unit EA, and the blower 30 of this disclosure can be configured to calculate the amount and / or velocity of air and inject the air such that the diameter of the winding center after the deformation of the electrode assembly unit EA is greater than approximately 75% of the diameter of the winding center before the deformation of the electrode assembly unit EA.

[0102] More preferably, the blower 30 can be configured to inject air such that the pressure inside the battery tank C is less than or equal to the value at which the shape of the winding center of the electrode assembly unit EA remains unchanged. For example, refer to Figure 11 It can be seen that the diaphragm located near the coiled center hole H1, which deforms after the insertion process of the electrode assembly unit EA, does not deform.

[0103] In other words, according to the above configuration of this disclosure, when air is vented from inside the battery tank C during the insertion process of the electrode assembly E, pressure can be reduced by injecting air to prevent separator deformation. Furthermore, by reducing the degree of reforming loosening, battery capacity and lifespan can be increased due to improved core impact. In addition, damage to the separator of the electrode assembly E can be reduced, process capability can be improved, and cost reduction can also be achieved.

[0104] Furthermore, the directional terms used herein (e.g., up and down) are used only for ease of description, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these terms may vary depending on the position of the described element or the observer.

[0105] The present disclosure has been described above with respect to a limited number of embodiments and accompanying drawings, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations may be made thereto within the scope of the technical aspects of the present disclosure and the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0106] [Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures]

[0107] 1: Insertion device

[0108] E: Electrode assembly

[0109] H1: Center hole for winding

[0110] C: Battery can

[0111] C1: Opening

[0112] C2: Enclosed section

[0113] P1: First current collector

[0114] P2: Second current collector

[0115] 10: Can Holder

[0116] 20: Lower stop

[0117] 30: Blower

[0118] 31: Positive pressure generator

[0119] 32: Air duct

Claims

1.An insertion device for inserting an electrode assembly unit into a battery can, the electrode assembly unit including an electrode assembly and a first current collector coupled to a surface of the electrode assembly, the insertion device comprising: a can holder holding the battery can; a lower stopper supporting the electrode assembly unit from below and configured to be movable in a direction parallel to a central axis of the electrode assembly unit; and a blower provided on the lower stopper and configured to inject air into the electrode assembly unit in a direction toward the battery can. 2.The insertion device of claim 1, the first current collector is coupled to a surface of the electrode assembly in a surface in a direction toward the battery can. wherein 3.The insertion device of claim 1, an area of the first current collector is smaller than an area of a surface of the electrode assembly. wherein 4.The insertion device of claim 1, the lower stopper is configured to insert the electrode assembly unit into the battery can. wherein, 5.The insertion device of claim 1, the lower stopper pushes the electrode assembly unit located below the can upward to push the electrode assembly unit toward an opening of the can. wherein 6.The insertion device of claim 1, the blower is configured to inject air toward a winding center of the electrode assembly unit. wherein 7.The insertion device of claim 1, the blower is configured to inject air in an insertion direction of the electrode assembly unit. wherein, 8.The insertion device of claim 1, the blower is configured to inject air from a bottom to a top in a direction parallel to a central axis of the electrode assembly unit. wherein 9.The insertion device of claim 1, the blower is configured to counteract a pressure acting on a winding center hole area of the electrode assembly. wherein 10.The insertion device of claim 1, the blower injects air such that a difference between an internal pressure of the battery can and an external pressure of the battery can is 5 mbar or less. wherein, 11.The insertion device of claim 1, the blower is configured to operate after the electrode assembly unit is inserted into the battery can by a predetermined length in a longitudinal direction. wherein, 12.The insertion device of claim 1, the blower is configured to operate after the electrode assembly unit is inserted into the battery can by 1 / 3 of a length in a longitudinal direction. wherein, 13.The insertion device of claim 1, the blower injects air such that a diameter of a winding center after the electrode assembly unit is deformed is greater than 75% of a diameter of the winding center before the electrode assembly unit is deformed. wherein 14.The insertion device of claim 1, the blower injects air such that a pressure inside the battery can is less than or equal to a value at which a shape of a winding center of the electrode assembly unit is not deformed. wherein, ​

Images