Metal particle monitoring device and method thereof

Abstract

A metal particle monitoring device according to one embodiment of the present invention may comprise: a pipe through which a fluid passes; the first capacitive sensor is used for detecting metal particles in the fluid passing through the pipeline; a metal removal unit disposed downstream of the first sensor and removing predetermined metal particles in the fluid; and a second capacitive sensor, which is disposed downstream of the metal removal unit, and which detects metal particles in the fluid after the predetermined metal particles have been removed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority and benefit to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0127847 filed on September 25, 2023 and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0129003 filed on September 24, 2024, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0003] This disclosure relates to a metal particle monitoring device and method, and more specifically, to a metal particle monitoring device and method capable of distinguishing between ferrous and non-ferrous metals. Background Technology

[0004] In modern society, the use of mobile devices such as cellular phones, laptops, camcorders, and digital cameras, as well as energy storage systems (ESS), has become commonplace, accelerating technological development in mobile device-related fields. Furthermore, as a measure to address air pollution caused by existing gasoline vehicles using fossil fuels, rechargeable batteries are being used as power sources for electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (P-HEVs). Therefore, the need to develop rechargeable batteries is increasing.

[0005] Currently, commercially available batteries include nickel-cadmium (NiCd), nickel-metal hydride (NiMH), nickel-zinc (NiZn), and lithium-ion batteries. Among these, lithium-ion batteries are becoming the most popular because they are freely rechargeable, have a low self-discharge rate, and high energy density.

[0006] Lithium-ion batteries typically use lithium-based oxides and carbon materials as the positive and negative electrode active materials, respectively. A lithium-ion battery includes: an electrode assembly in which positive and negative electrode plates coated with positive and negative electrode active materials, respectively, are placed with a separator between the positive and negative electrode plates; and an external material, namely the battery casing, which hermetically houses the electrode assembly and the electrolyte together.

[0007] These rechargeable batteries are widely used not only in small devices such as portable electronic devices, but also in medium and large devices such as electric vehicles and energy storage systems (ESS), and their usage is rapidly increasing. Furthermore, in recent years, there has been a growing preference for using residential battery packs for energy storage purposes.

[0008] Metallic foreign objects cause numerous problems during the manufacturing process of secondary batteries. They can contribute to low battery voltage and ultimately lead to battery failure. These foreign objects can be present not only in the raw materials themselves but also generated in facilities related to the secondary battery manufacturing process. Therefore, it is necessary to monitor the concentration of metallic foreign objects throughout the entire manufacturing process. However, there is a problem in distinguishing between ferrous and non-ferrous metallic foreign objects and monitoring them effectively. Summary of the Invention

[0009] [Technical Issues]

[0010] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a metal particle monitoring device and method capable of distinguishing between ferrous and non-ferrous metals.

[0011] However, the technical objectives to be addressed by the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited to those disclosed above, and can be extended in various ways within the scope of the technical concepts included in this disclosure.

[0012] [Technical Solution]

[0013] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a metal particle monitoring device is provided, the metal particle monitoring device comprising: a pipe through which fluid flows; a first sensor that detects metal particles in the fluid flowing through the pipe; a metal removal unit disposed downstream of the first sensor and removing predetermined metal particles from the fluid; and a second sensor disposed downstream of the metal removal unit and detecting metal particles after the predetermined metal particles in the fluid have been removed.

[0014] The first sensor and the second sensor can be electrostatic capacity sensors.

[0015] The conduit includes an opening through which at least a portion of the metal removal unit extends, and the metal removal unit is detachably inserted into the conduit through the opening.

[0016] The metal removal unit may include a magnetic component placed inside the pipe to collect the predetermined metal particles.

[0017] The metal removal unit may further include: a gripping member that protrudes outside the pipe when the magnetic member is inserted into the pipe; and a sealing member that is placed between the gripping member and the magnetic member and seals the opening of the pipe.

[0018] The metal removal unit may further include a positioning member that allows the magnetic member to be positioned at the center of the pipe.

[0019] The position fixing component may include a housing that accommodates the magnetic component, a cover component that closes the opening of the pipe, and a fixing component that connects the housing and the cover component and fixes the position of the housing.

[0020] The housing includes a first housing and a second housing detachably connected to the first housing, wherein at least one of the first housing and the second housing can be connected to the cover member by the fixing member.

[0021] One of the first housing and the second housing may include an internal thread formed on the inner surface, and the other of the first housing and the second housing may include an external thread formed on the outer surface and engaging with the internal thread.

[0022] The magnetic component may have a cross-sectional shape corresponding to the shape of the pipe.

[0023] The magnetic component may include a through-hole through which the fluid passes.

[0024] The housing may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the magnetic component.

[0025] The conduit includes: a receiving space formed to protrude outward so that the metal removal unit can be received in the receiving space; and a conduit cover member that opens and closes the opening, wherein the metal removal unit can be received in the receiving space and placed inside the conduit.

[0026] The metal removal unit includes a through-hole having a cross-section corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the pipe, and the fluid can pass through the through-hole when the metal removal unit is placed in the receiving space.

[0027] The diameter of the through hole can be less than or equal to the diameter of the pipe.

[0028] The pipe can extend vertically relative to the ground.

[0029] The pipe can extend at an angle downwards relative to the ground.

[0030] The first capacitive sensor, the second capacitive sensor, and the metal removal unit can be placed on the side of the pipe facing the ground.

[0031] The conduit may include: an extension having a cross-sectional shape that widens toward the metal removal unit downstream of the first capacitive sensor; and a convergence having a cross-sectional shape that narrows toward the second capacitive sensor downstream of the metal removal unit.

[0032] The metal removal unit includes multiple metal removal units, and the multiple metal removal units can be placed apart from each other at predetermined intervals.

[0033] The fluid may be air inside a secondary battery manufacturing facility.

[0034] The metal particles may be formed from at least one metal selected from iron, stainless steel, copper, and zinc or alloys thereof.

[0035] According to another embodiment of this disclosure, a method for monitoring metal particles is provided, the method comprising the steps of: detecting the amount of metal particles in a fluid passing through a pipe; removing predetermined metal particles from the fluid; and detecting the amount of metal particles after the predetermined metal particles have been removed from the fluid.

[0036] [Beneficial Effects]

[0037] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the arrangement of the capacitive sensor and the metal removal unit enables the differentiation between ferrous and non-ferrous metals and the monitoring of metallic foreign objects, which was previously impossible. It allows for the selective detection of both ferrous and non-ferrous metallic foreign objects to determine the factors contributing to their formation.

[0038] Furthermore, by monitoring the metallic foreign objects contained in the air inside the secondary battery manufacturing facility, it is possible to predict in advance the possibility of defective battery cells that may occur during the manufacturing process of secondary batteries.

[0039] Furthermore, since ferrous metals can be removed during the monitoring of metallic foreign objects, it is possible to more effectively reduce metallic foreign objects in the air inside the secondary battery manufacturing facility.

[0040] The effects of this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and other effects not described herein will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the appended claims. Attached Figure Description

[0041] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a metal particle monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 2 It is used for explanation Figure 1 The diagram shows the operation of the capacitive sensor in the metal particle monitoring device.

[0043] Figure 3 It is used for explanation Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an example of the capacitive sensor and metal removal unit of the metal particle monitoring device shown.

[0044] Figure 4 It is used for explanation Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an example pipe for a metal particle monitoring device is shown.

[0045] Figure 5 It is used for explanation Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of another example of the pipe for a metal particle monitoring device.

[0046] Figure 6 This is a perspective view illustrating the metal removal unit of a metal particle monitoring device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] Figure 7 It is shown in Figure 6 The diagram shows a perspective view of the state of the metal removal unit before it is inserted into the pipe.

[0048] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 An exploded perspective view of the metal removal unit shown.

[0049] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the metal removal unit of a metal particle monitoring device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 A perspective view of the metal removal unit shown.

[0051] Figure 11 It is shown in Figure 9 The diagram shows a perspective view of the state of the metal removal unit before it is inserted into the pipe.

[0052] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for monitoring metal particles according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0053] In the following description, various embodiments of the present disclosure will be detailed to the extent that those skilled in the art will be able to readily practice it. The present disclosure may be implemented in a variety of different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0054] For clarity in describing this disclosure, descriptions of parts unrelated to this disclosure will be omitted, and identical or similar parts will be indicated by the same reference numerals throughout the description.

[0055] Because the dimensions and thicknesses of each component are arbitrarily shown in the accompanying drawings for ease of description, this disclosure is not necessarily limited to the dimensions and thicknesses shown. The drawings depict thicknesses at an enlarged scale to clearly show different layers and regions. Furthermore, the drawings enlarge the thickness of specific layers or regions for ease of description.

[0056] When layers, films, regions, plates, etc., are placed "on" a specific portion, this description includes not only cases where the layers, films, regions, plates, etc., are placed "directly" on the specific portion, but also cases where the layers, films, regions, plates, etc., are placed on the specific portion via another portion. When one part is placed "directly" on another part, this indicates that there is no new component between the two parts. Furthermore, when a component is placed "on" a reference portion, this indicates that the component is present on top of or below the reference portion, and does not necessarily indicate that the component is placed only on top of the reference portion, which is opposite to the direction of gravity.

[0057] Throughout this description, when a particular section “includes” a component, it does not indicate that the particular section excludes other components, but rather that the section may include other components, unless otherwise defined.

[0058] Throughout this description, the term "in a plan view" refers to an object viewed from above, and the term "in a cross-sectional view" indicates a vertical cross-section of an object viewed from the side.

[0059] Embodiments of this disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0060] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a metal particle monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 It is used for explanation Figure 1 The diagram shows the operation of the capacitive sensor in the metal particle monitoring device. Figure 3 It is used for explanation Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an example of the capacitive sensor and metal removal unit of the metal particle monitoring device shown.

[0061] Reference Figures 1 to 3 The metal particle monitoring device 100 includes: a pipe 110 through which fluid flows; a first sensor 121 that detects metal particles in the fluid flowing through the pipe 110; a metal removal unit 130 that is positioned downstream of the first sensor 121 and removes predetermined metal particles from the fluid; and a second sensor 122 that is positioned downstream of the metal removal unit 130 and detects metal particles after the predetermined metal particles in the fluid have been removed.

[0062] The conduit 110 may include an inlet port through which fluid flows in and an outlet port through which fluid flows out. The inlet port and outlet port may each be connected to a separate conduit (not shown) through which fluid can flow. As described below, the conduit 110 may be formed with an opening 111 through which at least a portion of the metal removal unit 130 passes.

[0063] Fluid containing metal particles can flow into the interior of pipe 110 through the inlet port and then be discharged to the outside through the outlet port. At this time, predetermined metal particles included in the fluid flowing into pipe 110 can be removed by inserting a metal removal unit 130 into pipe 110. Here, the removal of metal particles can mean that the metal particles are separated from the fluid. The fluid from which the predetermined metal particles have been removed can be discharged to the outside through the outlet port.

[0064] like Figure 3 As shown, pipe 110 can extend vertically relative to the ground. Because pipe 110 extends vertically relative to the ground, metal particles in the fluid passing through pipe 110 can easily move within pipe 110 due to gravity. However, the extension direction of pipe 110 is not limited to the aforementioned direction. For example, as described below, pipe 110 can extend downwards relative to the ground. Furthermore, Figure 3 The illustrated embodiment shows only a portion of the conduit 110 in which the first sensor 121, the second sensor 122, and the metal removal unit 130 are housed, and Figure 3 The remaining portion of the pipe 110 shown may extend relative to the ground in a horizontal, vertical, upward, downward, or combination thereof.

[0065] The first sensor 121 and the second sensor 122 can detect metal particles in the fluid passing through the pipe 110. The first sensor 121 and the second sensor 122 can be placed on the outer wall of the pipe 110, respectively.

[0066] The first sensor 121 and the second sensor 122 can be capacitive sensors. (Reference) Figure 2 The capacitive sensor 120 is supplied with AC power between two poles and detects the metal particle 200 by means of an electrical signal that changes when a foreign object 200 (e.g., a metal particle) passes between them. For example, when the metal particle 200 passes between the two poles, the capacitance may change due to the metal particle 200, and the capacitive sensor 120 detects the metal particle 200 by means of an electrical signal corresponding to the capacitance change that occurs when the metal particle 200 passes through.

[0067] On the other hand, the capacitive sensor 120 can detect metal particles 200 regardless of their type, but it cannot distinguish between ferrous and non-ferrous metal particles, as will be described later. A configuration in which the metal particle monitoring device 100 can distinguish between ferrous and non-ferrous metal particles is described below.

[0068] The first capacitive sensor 121 detects metal particles in the fluid flowing into and through the pipe 110 before predetermined metal particles are removed by the metal removal unit 130. More specifically, the first capacitive sensor 121 can measure the amount of metal particles passing through the first capacitive sensor 121 based on changes in capacitance, wherein the metal particles detected by the first capacitive sensor 121 include predetermined metal particles removed by the metal removal unit 130 described below.

[0069] The second capacitive sensor 122 can measure the amount of metal particles passing through it based on changes in capacitance in a manner similar to that of the first capacitive sensor 121, wherein the metal particles detected by the second capacitive sensor 122 are the metal particles in the fluid passing through the pipe 110 after the metal particles have been removed by the metal removal unit 130.

[0070] The metal removal unit 130 is capable of removing metal particles. The predetermined metal particles removed by the metal removal unit 130 may include ferromagnetic materials. In some cases, the predetermined metal particles collected by the metal removal unit 130 may be at least one metal selected from iron (Fe), stainless steel (SUS), chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), and cobalt (Co), or alloys thereof. For example, the metal particles collected by the metal removal unit 130 may be ferromagnetic metals. For ease of explanation, the metal particles collected by the metal removal unit 130 are referred to as ferrous metal particles, while the metal particles not collected by the metal removal unit 130 are referred to as non-ferrous metal particles.

[0071] The metal removal unit 130 may include a magnetic member 131, a gripping member 132, and a sealing member 133. The magnetic member 131 is disposed inside the pipe 110 to collect ferrous metal particles. The magnetic member 131 has a predetermined magnetic force, and the ferrous metal particles contained in the fluid adhere to the magnetic member 131 by magnetic force. Therefore, the ferrous metal particles in the fluid are removed by the magnetic member 131 of the metal removal unit 130. Meanwhile, the magnitude of the magnetic force of the magnetic member 131 can be modified and changed in various ways depending on the environment in which this disclosure is implemented. Since the magnetic member 131 is disposed inside the pipe 110, it can contact the fluid. The magnetic member 131 collects and removes predetermined ferrous metal particles contained in the fluid.

[0072] At least a portion of the metal removal unit 130 can be detachably inserted into the pipe 110 through the opening 111. As a result, when the metal removal unit 130 is inserted into the pipe 110 and a predetermined amount of ferrous metal particles are collected in the magnetic member 131, the metal removal unit 130 can be removed from the pipe 110. When the metal removal unit 130 is removed from the pipe 110, the magnetic member 131 can be easily cleaned, thereby easily removing the collected ferrous metal particles from the magnetic member 131. Meanwhile, the amount of ferrous metal particles collected by the magnetic member 131 can be modified and changed in various ways depending on the environment in which this disclosure is implemented.

[0073] The gripping member 132 is a member that protrudes outside the pipe 110 when the magnetic member 131 is inserted into the pipe 110. The user can grip the gripping member 132 protruding outside the pipe 110 and easily remove the metal removal unit 130 from the pipe 110.

[0074] The sealing member 133 is placed between the gripping member 132 and the magnetic member 131, and seals the opening 111 of the pipe 110. The sealing member 133 can prevent fluid inside the pipe 110 from leaking to the outside of the pipe 110.

[0075] The sealing member 133 can be made of a resiliently deformable material. The sealing member 133 can be made of, for example, a resiliently deformable material such as rubber. However, the material of the sealing member 133 is not limited to the materials described above. For example, the sealing member 133 can be made of a resiliently deformable material such as natural rubber, synthetic rubber, thermoplastic elastomer, etc.

[0076] When the metal removal unit 130 is inserted into the pipe 110, it is forcibly fitted into the opening 111 of the pipe 110. Since the metal removal unit 130 is forcibly fitted into the pipe 110, it is not easily separated from the pipe 110. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the metal removal unit 130 from being removed from the pipe 110 due to the pressure of the fluid flowing through it. Furthermore, the method by which the metal removal unit 130 is fixed to the pipe 110 is not limited to the method described above. For example, the metal removal unit 130 can be fixed to the pipe 110 by a method such as screw connection.

[0077] The metal particle monitoring device 100 may include a processor 150 for calculating the amount of ferrous and non-ferrous metal particles. The processor 150 may include, for example, a microcontroller unit (MCU). The processor 150 may be located internally to the metal particle monitoring device 100, or it may be located externally to the metal particle monitoring device 100 and may communicate remotely with the metal particle monitoring device 100. The form of the processor 150 may be modified or changed in various ways depending on the environment in which this disclosure is implemented.

[0078] As described above, the processor 150 can receive electrical signals regarding metal particles detected from the first capacitive sensor 121 and the second capacitive sensor 122. As described above, the processor 150 receives from the first capacitive sensor 121 an electrical signal regarding the amount of ferrous and non-ferrous metal particles in the fluid flowing through the pipe 110. Furthermore, the processor 150 receives from the second capacitive sensor 122 an electrical signal regarding the amount of non-ferrous metal particles flowing through the pipe 110 after the ferrous metal particles are removed by the metal removal unit 130. The processor 150 is capable of calculating the amount of ferrous and non-ferrous metal particles based on the amount of metal particles detected from the first and second capacitive sensors 121 and 122. That is, the processor 150 is capable of determining the amount of metal particles sensed by the second capacitive sensor 122 as the amount of non-ferrous metal particles. Additionally, the processor 150 calculates the difference between the amount of metal particles detected by the first capacitive sensor 121 and the amount of metal particles detected by the second capacitive sensor 122 to calculate the amount of ferrous metal particles.

[0079] Therefore, the metal particle monitoring device 100 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure is able to selectively detect the amount of ferrous and nonferrous metals in the fluid flowing into the pipe 110 based on the amount of metal particles detected by the first capacitive sensor 121 and the second capacitive sensor 122.

[0080] Figure 4 It is used for explanation Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an example pipe for a metal particle monitoring device is shown.

[0081] refer to Figure 4 The pipe 110 can extend downwards at a predetermined angle (θ) relative to the ground. Meanwhile, Figure 4 The illustrated embodiment shows only a portion of the conduit 110 in which the first capacitive sensor 121, the second capacitive sensor 122, and the metal removal unit 130 are housed, and Figure 4 The remaining portion of the pipe 110 shown may extend relative to the ground in a horizontal, vertical, upward, downward, or combination thereof.

[0082] At this time, the first capacitive sensor 121, the second capacitive sensor 122, and the metal removal unit 130 can be placed on the ground-facing side of the pipe 110. Since the first and second capacitive sensors 121 and 122 are closer to the metal particles, the measurement accuracy can be higher. Since the metal removal unit 130 is also closer to the ferrous metal particles, the magnetic force exerted by the magnetic component 131 on the ferrous metal particles can be stronger. According to the above arrangement, due to the influence of gravity, the metal particles passing through the pipe 110 can flow as close as possible to the first capacitive sensor 121, the second capacitive sensor 122, and the metal removal unit 130. Therefore, the measurement accuracy of ferrous and non-ferrous metal particles by the metal particle monitoring device 100 can be improved.

[0083] Figure 5 It is used for explanation Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of another example of the pipe for a metal particle monitoring device.

[0084] Reference Figure 5 The conduit 110 includes an extension 112 and a convergence 113. The extension 112 has a cross-sectional shape that widens toward the metal removal unit 130 downstream of the first capacitive sensor 121, and the convergence 113 has a cross-sectional shape that narrows toward the second capacitive sensor 122 downstream of the metal removal unit 130.

[0085] As the cross-section gradually widens from the extension 112 toward the metal removal unit 130, the velocity of the fluid flowing in the extension 112 can be reduced. As a result, the contact time between the fluid and the metal removal unit 130 can be increased, thus increasing the collection efficiency of ferrous metal particles in the metal removal unit 130. The velocity of the fluid passing through the metal removal unit 130 can be increased again in the convergence section 113.

[0086] The metal removal unit 130 includes a plurality of metal removal units 130, which are spaced apart from each other at predetermined intervals. The portion of the pipe 110 where the metal removal units 130 are placed is the portion with the largest diameter, and a single metal removal unit 130 may not be sufficient to apply a magnetic force inside the pipe 110. Therefore, the plurality of metal removal units 130 are placed together at predetermined intervals along the outer surface of the pipe 110, thereby allowing the magnetic force to act uniformly inside the pipe 110.

[0087] Figure 6 This is a perspective view illustrating the metal removal unit of a metal particle monitoring device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7 It is shown Figure 6 The diagram shows a perspective view of the state of the metal removal unit before it is inserted into the pipe. Figure 8 yes Figure 6An exploded perspective view of the metal removal unit shown.

[0088] Reference Figures 6 to 8 The metal removal unit 130 may include a positioning member 140 for positioning the magnetic member 131 at the center of the pipe 110. The positioning member 140 may include a housing 141 for housing the magnetic member 131, a cover member 145 for closing the opening 111 of the pipe 110, and a fixing member 144 for connecting the housing 141 and the cover member 145 and fixing the position of the housing 141.

[0089] The housing 141 includes a first housing 142 and a second housing 143 detachably connected to the first housing 142. In this case, at least one of the first housing 142 and the second housing 143 can be connected to the cover member 145 by a fixing member 144. Meanwhile, the housing 141 can be included in embodiments of this disclosure, as long as it has a structure capable of accommodating the magnetic member 131 therein. For example, the housing 141 can be an elastically deformable integral structure, such as silicone or rubber, and the magnetic member 131 can be accommodated inside the housing 141 via a deformable groove formed in the housing 141.

[0090] Because the magnetic component 131 is housed inside the housing 141, it does not come into direct contact with the fluid in the pipe 110. This prevents the magnetic component 131 from being corroded by the fluid. The housing 141 can be made of a non-metallic material. Even if wear or corrosion occurs in the housing 141, the non-metallic material prevents the formation of new metal particles inside the pipe 110. Therefore, the magnetic component 131 can be prevented from affecting the measurements of the first capacitive sensor 121 and the second capacitive sensor 122.

[0091] Furthermore, when a predetermined amount of ferrous metal particles are collected in the magnetic component 131, the user can remove the metal removal unit 130 from the pipe 110. After removing the metal removal unit 130 from the pipe 110, the housing 141 can be separated into a first housing 142 and a second housing 143, allowing the user to remove only the magnetic component 131 from the housing 141. As a result, when the magnetism of the magnetic component 131 disappears, the ferrous metal particles that were attached to the outer surface of the housing 141 due to the magnetism of the magnetic component 131 can be easily removed from the housing 141.

[0092] Therefore, the metal particle monitoring device 100 according to the embodiments of this disclosure does not remove ferrous metal particles directly attached to the magnetic member 131, but instead separates the magnetic member 131 from the housing 141 to remove the ferrous metal particles from the non-magnetic housing 141. Thus, the user can easily clean the ferrous metal particles collected by the metal removal unit 130.

[0093] For detachable connection of the first housing 142 and the second housing 143, an internal thread 146 may be formed on the inner surface of one of the first housing 142 and the second housing 143, and an external thread 147 engaging the internal thread 146 may be formed on the outer surface of the other of the first housing 142 and the second housing 143. For example, as Figure 8 As shown, the internal thread 146 can be formed on the inner surface of the first housing 142, and the external thread 147 can be formed on the outer surface of the second housing 143. Furthermore, the method of connecting the first housing 142 and the second housing 143 is not limited to the method described above, and can be modified and changed through various connection methods.

[0094] The fixing member 144 can secure the housing 141 to a predetermined position within the pipe 110. For example, the fixing member 144 can allow the housing 141 to be located at the center of the pipe 110. When the housing 141 is located at the center of the pipe 110, a bending moment occurs in the fixing member 144 due to the resistance of the fluid flowing through the pipe 110. The fixing member 144 can be made of a rigid material so that bending due to this bending moment does not occur. Preferably, the fixing member 144 can be a rigid non-metallic material.

[0095] The cover member 145 is a component used to close the opening 111 of the pipe 110. Although in Figures 6 to 8 Although not shown, the cover member 145 can be equipped with various sealing devices, such as elastically deformable members, to seal the opening 111 of the pipe 110.

[0096] Meanwhile, the cross-section of the magnetic component 131 can have a shape corresponding to the cross-section of the pipe 110. For example, as Figures 6 to 8 As shown, when the pipe 110 has a circular cross-sectional shape, the magnetic component 131 can also have a circular cross-sectional shape. Since the cross-sectional shape of the magnetic component 131 is the same as that of the pipe 110, and the magnetic component 131 is also located at the center of the pipe 110 via the positioning member 140, the contact area between the magnetic component 131 and the fluid flowing in the pipe 110 is increased. Therefore, the metal removal unit 130 can effectively collect ferrous metal particles from the fluid flowing through the pipe 110.

[0097] At this time, a through hole 134 for fluid passage can be formed in the magnetic component 131. The through hole 134 of the magnetic component 131 can also have a shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the pipe 110. When the through hole 134 is formed in the magnetic component 131, the area resisting the flow of fluid through the pipe 110 can be reduced, so that the flow of fluid through the pipe 110 can be kept smooth.

[0098] The housing 141 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the magnetic member 131. For example, as Figures 6 to 8 As shown, the magnetic component 131 has a circular shape, i.e., an annular structure, in which a through hole 134 is formed. Therefore, the housing 141 can have the same annular structure as the magnetic component 131. As described above, the fluid in the pipe 110 passes through the housing hole 148, thereby maintaining a smooth flow of the fluid through the pipe 110.

[0099] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the metal removal unit of a metal particle monitoring device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 10 yes Figure 9 A perspective view of the metal removal unit shown. Figure 11 It is shown Figure 9 The diagram shows a perspective view of the state of the metal removal unit before it is inserted into the pipe.

[0100] Reference Figures 9 to 11 The conduit 110 may include: a receiving space 114, which is formed to protrude outward so that a metal removal unit 130 can be accommodated therein; and a conduit cover member 115, which opens and closes an opening 111 communicating with the receiving space 114. The metal removal unit 130 can be accommodated in the receiving space 114 and placed inside the conduit 110. Meanwhile, for ease of explanation, Figures 9 to 11 The shapes of the metal removal unit 130, the receiving space 114, and the pipe cover member 115 shown are merely exemplary and are not limited to those shown in the figures. For example, both the metal removal unit 130 and the receiving space 114 may have a square cross-sectional shape.

[0101] The receiving space 114 may be formed to protrude outward from the pipe 110 so as to accommodate the metal removal unit 130 inside the pipe 110. Since the receiving space 114 is in communication with the interior of the pipe 110 through which the fluid passes, the metal removal unit 130 can be in contact with the fluid when accommodated in the receiving space 114. Because the receiving space 114 is formed to protrude outward from the pipe 110, the metal removal unit 130 can be secured to the pipe 110 without additional securing devices when accommodated in the receiving space 114.

[0102] The pipe cover member 115 can be operated by rotating between a first position with the opening 111 open and a second position with the opening 111 closed. However, the method by which the pipe cover member 115 opens and closes the opening 111 is not limited to the method described above, and various modifications and changes can be applied. For example, the pipe cover member 115 can be slidably moved between the first position with the opening 111 open and the second position with the opening 111 closed. Meanwhile, although in Figures 9 to 11 Although not shown, the pipe cover component 115 can be equipped with various sealing devices, such as components that can be elastically deformed to seal the opening 111 of the pipe 110.

[0103] The metal removal unit 130 may include a through-hole 134 having a cross-sectional shape corresponding to that of the pipe 110. When the metal removal unit 130 is placed in the receiving space 114 of the pipe 110, fluid passing through the pipe 110 passes through the through-hole 134. At this time, the diameter of the through-hole 134 of the metal removal unit 130 may be less than or equal to the diameter of the pipe 110.

[0104] When the diameter of the through hole 134 of the metal removal unit 130 is equal to the diameter of the pipe 110, the flow of fluid through the pipe 110 can be unaffected by the metal removal unit 130.

[0105] When the diameter of the through-hole 134 of the metal removal unit 130 is smaller than the diameter of the pipe 110, the flow of fluid through the pipe 110 may be affected by the metal removal unit 130. For example, turbulence may be generated by the metal removal unit 130 at the portion of the metal removal unit 130 protruding into the pipe 110, and may hinder the smooth flow of fluid. Therefore, in order to minimize the influence of the metal removal unit 130 on the fluid flow in the pipe 110, the metal removal unit 130 may include a chamfered portion 135 formed on the edge of the portion of the metal removal unit 130 protruding into the pipe 110.

[0106] Meanwhile, the velocity of the fluid flowing through pipe 110 can be modified and changed in various ways depending on the process environment, the type of fluid, the amount of metal particles, etc. In some cases, the fluid can flow at a constant velocity in pipe 110, or stop in pipe 110, or flow at any velocity in pipe 110, or a combination of these, and flow in pipe 110 with a predetermined profile.

[0107] For example, the fluid flowing in the pipe 110 of the metal particle monitoring device 100 according to the above embodiment can be air from inside a secondary battery manufacturing facility. For example, air from inside a secondary battery manufacturing facility can flow in from outside the metal particle monitoring device 100 through a pipe (not shown). The metal particle monitoring device 100 is capable of monitoring metal particles contained in the air.

[0108] For example, the metal particles contained in the air inside a secondary battery manufacturing facility can be iron, stainless steel, copper, zinc, etc. As described above, the metal particle monitoring device 100 can collect ferrous metal particles through the metal removal unit 130, such as iron and stainless steel, after passing through the first capacitive sensor 121, which then removes them. Therefore, the first capacitive sensor 121 can detect the total amount of metal particles such as iron, stainless steel, copper, zinc, etc., and the second capacitive sensor 122 can detect the amount of non-ferrous metal particles such as copper and zinc, in addition to ferrous metal particles such as iron and stainless steel.

[0109] If metal particles are included in the electrode during the electrode manufacturing process, they may grow during the operation of the lithium secondary battery, leading to leakage current between the positive and negative electrodes and resulting in low-voltage defects in the lithium secondary battery. Therefore, monitoring metal particles during electrode manufacturing is important. For example, the metal particle monitoring device 100 can be used in cutting processes, welding processes, etc., where a large number of metal particles may be generated during electrode manufacturing. Furthermore, the metal particle monitoring device 100 can be used in winding devices for winding substrates, laminating devices for bonding electrodes and separators, etc. The metal particle monitoring device 100 according to the above embodiments can selectively detect ferrous and non-ferrous metal foreign objects during electrode manufacturing to understand the factors contributing to foreign object formation. However, the processes and apparatus in which the metal particle monitoring device 100 according to the embodiments of this disclosure can be used are not limited to the processes and apparatus described above, and can be used in all processes where it is necessary to monitor the concentration of metal particles generated by manufacturing equipment in a battery production line.

[0110] The metal particle monitoring device 100 according to the above embodiment can monitor the metal foreign objects contained in the air inside the secondary battery manufacturing facility, so as to predict in advance the defective battery cells that may occur during the secondary battery manufacturing process. In addition, since ferrous metal can be removed by the magnetic member 131 during the monitoring of metal foreign objects, the reduction of metal foreign objects in the air inside the secondary battery manufacturing facility can be achieved more effectively.

[0111] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for monitoring metal particles according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0112] The metal particle monitoring device 100 described above can be used to perform a metal particle monitoring method. However, since it has already been referenced... Figures 1 to 11 The metal particle monitoring device 100 provides a detailed description of each step of the metal particle monitoring method described below, therefore overlapping content will be omitted.

[0113] Reference Figure 12The metal particle monitoring method may include the steps of detecting the amount of metal particles in the fluid passing through the pipe 110 (S10), removing predetermined metal particles from the fluid (S20), detecting the amount of metal particles after the predetermined metal particles have been removed from the fluid (S30), and calculating the amount of predetermined metal particles and the amount of metal particles other than predetermined metal particles (S40).

[0114] In step S10, the metal particle monitoring method can detect the amount of metal particles in the fluid passing through pipe 110 using the first capacitive sensor 121. At this time, the metal particles in the fluid passing through pipe 110 can include both ferrous and non-ferrous metal particles.

[0115] In step S20, ferrous metal particles in the fluid can be removed by the metal removal unit 130. The metal removal unit 130 collects ferrous metal particles by magnetic force, thereby removing ferrous metal particles from the fluid passing through the pipe 110.

[0116] In step S30, the metal particle monitoring method can detect the amount of non-ferrous metal particles in the fluid passing through the pipe 110 via the second capacitive sensor 122. At this time, the metal particles in the fluid passing through the pipe 110 where the second capacitive sensor 122 is placed may consist only of non-ferrous metal particles, because ferrous metal particles are removed.

[0117] In step S40, the processor 150 is able to calculate the amount of ferrous and nonferrous metal particles based on the amount of metal particles detected from the first capacitive sensor 121 and the second capacitive sensor 122. For example, the processor 150 can calculate the amount of nonferrous metal particles by using the amount of metal particles detected from the second capacitive sensor 122, and calculate the difference between the amount of metal particles detected from the first capacitive sensor 121 and the amount of metal particles detected from the second capacitive sensor 122, thereby calculating the amount of ferrous metal particles.

[0118] While preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments, and also includes various modifications and improvements made by those skilled in the art using the concepts defined in the appended claims.

[0119] [Description of reference numerals in the attached figures]

[0120] 100: Metal Particle Monitoring Device

[0121] 110: Pipeline

[0122] 111: Opening

[0123] 112: Extension Section

[0124] 113: Convergence

[0125] 114: Capacity

[0126] 115: Chamfered section

[0127] 120: Capacitive sensor

[0128] 121: First capacitive sensor (first sensor)

[0129] 122: Second capacitive sensor (second sensor)

[0130] 130: Metal Removal Unit

[0131] 131: Magnetic components

[0132] 132: Grasping component

[0133] 133: Sealing component

[0134] 134: Through hole

[0135] 135: Chamfered section

[0136] 140: Position fixing component

[0137] 141: Shell

[0138] 142: First shell

[0139] 143: Second shell

[0140] 144: Fixed components

[0141] 145: Cover component

[0142] 146: Internal thread section

[0143] 147: External thread section

[0144] 148: Casing Hole

[0145] 150: Processor

[0146] 200: Metal particles

Claims

1. A metal particle monitoring device, comprising: Pipe, through which fluid flows; A first sensor detects metal particles in the fluid passing through the pipe; A metal removal unit is placed downstream of the first sensor and removes predetermined metal particles from the fluid. and A second sensor is placed downstream of the metal removal unit and detects metal particles after the predetermined metal particles have been removed from the fluid.

2. The metal particle monitoring device according to claim 1, in, The first sensor and the second sensor are capacitive sensors.

3. The metal particle monitoring device according to claim 1, in, The pipe includes an opening, and at least a portion of the metal removal unit extends through the opening. The metal removal unit is detachably inserted into the pipe through the opening.

4. The metal particle monitoring device according to claim 3, in, The metal removal unit includes a magnetic component placed inside the pipe to collect the predetermined metal particles.

5. The metal particle monitoring device according to claim 4, in, The metal removal unit further includes: A gripping member that protrudes outside the pipe when the magnetic member is inserted into the pipe; and A sealing member is placed between the gripping member and the magnetic member, and seals the opening of the pipe.

6. The metal particle monitoring device according to claim 4, in, The metal removal unit also includes a positioning member that allows the magnetic member to be positioned at the center of the pipe.

7. The metal particle monitoring device according to claim 6, in, The position fixing component includes: A housing that accommodates the magnetic component; A cover member that closes the opening of the pipe; and A fixing member is connected between the housing and the cover member and fixes the position of the housing.

8. The metal particle monitoring device according to claim 7, in, The housing includes: First shell; and A second housing, which is detachably connected to the first housing. At least one of the first housing and the second housing is connected to the cover member by the fixing member.

9. The metal particle monitoring device according to claim 8, in, One of the first housing and the second housing includes an internally threaded portion formed on its inner surface, and The other of the first housing and the second housing includes an external thread portion formed on the outer surface and engaging with the internal thread portion.

10. The metal particle monitoring device according to claim 7, in, The magnetic component has a cross-sectional shape that corresponds to the shape of the pipe.

11. The metal particle monitoring device according to claim 10, in, The magnetic component includes a through-hole through which the fluid passes.

12. The metal particle monitoring device according to claim 11, in, The housing has a shape corresponding to the shape of the magnetic component.

13. The metal particle monitoring device according to claim 3, in, The pipeline includes: A receiving space, the receiving space being formed to protrude outwards, such that the metal removal unit can be received within the receiving space; and A pipe cover component that opens and closes the opening. The metal removal unit is housed in the receiving space and placed inside the pipe.

14. The metal particle monitoring device according to claim 13, in, The metal removal unit includes a through-hole having a cross-section corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the pipe, and When the metal removal unit is placed in the receiving space, the fluid passes through the through hole.

15. The metal particle monitoring device according to claim 14, in, The diameter of the through hole is less than or equal to the diameter of the pipe.

16. The metal particle monitoring device according to claim 1, in, The pipe extends vertically relative to the ground.

17. The metal particle monitoring device according to claim 1, in, The pipe extends at an angle downward relative to the ground.

18. The metal particle monitoring device according to claim 17, in, The first capacitive sensor, the second capacitive sensor, and the metal removal unit are placed on the side of the pipe facing the ground.

19. The metal particle monitoring device according to claim 1, in, The pipeline includes: An extension portion having a cross-sectional shape that widens toward the metal removal unit on the downstream side of the first capacitive sensor; and The converging section has a cross-sectional shape that narrows toward the second capacitive sensor on the downstream side of the metal removal unit.

20. The metal particle monitoring device according to claim 19, in, The metal removal unit includes multiple metal removal units, and The plurality of metal removal units are placed apart from each other at predetermined intervals.

21. The metal particle monitoring device according to claim 1, in, The fluid is air inside the secondary battery manufacturing facility.

22. The metal particle monitoring device according to claim 21, in, The metal particles are formed from at least one metal selected from iron, stainless steel, copper, and zinc or alloys thereof.

23. A method for monitoring metal particles, comprising the following steps: Detect the amount of metal particles in the fluid passing through the pipe; Remove predetermined metal particles from the fluid; as well as The amount of metal particles is detected after the predetermined metal particles are removed from the fluid.

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