Apparatus for manufacturing secondary battery

Abstract

An apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery includes: a cap conveyor including a cap base member configured to receive a cap at a cap supply position to place the cap on the cap base member, and the cap base member being rotatable about a cap turret axis to convey the cap to a cap welding position; a can conveyor configured to move a can connected to a tab toward the lid located at the lid welding position; a can holder configured to move between a can separation position, at which the can holder is spaced apart from the can, and a can pressing position, at which the can holder is in contact with the can, and the can is pressed in a direction in which the cap conveyor is arranged; a tab pusher; and a laser generator configured to emit laser to the tab to weld the lid and the tab.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] An aspect of the embodiments of this disclosure relates to an apparatus for manufacturing secondary batteries. Background Technology

[0002] Unlike primary batteries, which cannot be recharged, secondary batteries are batteries that can be recharged and discharged. Low-capacity secondary batteries are used in small portable electronic devices (such as smartphones, feature phones, laptops, digital cameras, and camcorders), while high-capacity secondary batteries are widely used as power sources and energy storage batteries for driving motors in hybrid electric vehicles, electric vehicles, etc. A secondary battery includes an electrode assembly containing positive and negative electrodes, a housing for the electrode assembly, and electrode terminals connected to the electrode assembly.

[0003] The electrode contacts are connected to a cover, which has a current interruption device (CID), and the electrode contacts and the cover can be joined by laser welding. During laser welding, the weld quality may vary depending on the laser welding distance, and since the laser welding distance may vary depending on the type of secondary battery, the welding distance needs to be adjusted. Because there is a large deviation when manually adjusting the laser welding distance, a device or method is needed to reduce this deviation.

[0004] The information disclosed in this background section is provided to enhance the understanding of the background of this disclosure, and therefore may contain information that does not constitute related (or prior art). Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to one aspect of the embodiments of the present disclosure, an apparatus for manufacturing secondary batteries is provided, which reduces the number of welding defects in the terminals and the cover.

[0006] According to another aspect of the embodiments of this disclosure, an apparatus for manufacturing secondary batteries is provided, which reduces the defect rate of secondary batteries.

[0007] According to another aspect of the embodiments of this disclosure, an apparatus for manufacturing secondary batteries is provided, which reduces the time required to manufacture secondary batteries.

[0008] The above and other aspects and features of this disclosure will be described in the following description of some embodiments of this disclosure, or will be apparent from the following description of some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0009] According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery includes: a cap conveyor including a cap base member configured to receive a cap at a cap supply position to place the cap on the cap base member, and the cap base member being rotatable about a cap turntable axis to convey the cap to a cap welding position; a can conveyor configured to move a can connected to a connector toward the cap located at the cap welding position; and a can retainer configured to move between a can separation position and a can pressing position, wherein at the can separation position, the can retainer is engaged with the cap... The cans are spaced apart, and at the can pressing position, the can retainer contacts the can, and the can is pressed in the direction of the lid conveyor arrangement; a connector pusher is configured to move between a connector separation position and a connector pressing position, in which the connector pusher is spaced apart from the connector, and at the connector pressing position, the connector pusher contacts the connector, and the connector is pressed toward the lid; and a laser generator is configured to emit a laser to the connector to weld the lid and the connector.

[0010] The can retainer may include: a can retainer body configured to move between the can separated position and the can pressed position; a can concave body including a groove for contacting the outer surface of the can; and a can connecting body connecting the can retainer body to the can concave body and including a retainer groove formed as a recess.

[0011] When the can holder body is in the can pressing position, the can concave body of the can holder can contact the can, and when the can holder body is in the can separating position, the can concave body of the can holder can be separated from the can.

[0012] The can holder may be located on a fixed platform and may further include: a can holder plate to which the can holder body is connected; a can holder plate protrusion protruding from the can holder plate; and a can holder plate elastic member connected to the can holder plate protrusion, and the can holder plate elastic member may be further connected to a fixed platform protrusion protruding from the fixed platform to generate a pulling force to move the can holder to the can pressing position.

[0013] The can retainer may include a can retainer driver on the fixed platform for moving the can retainer plate to the can separation position.

[0014] The connector pusher may include: a connector pusher retainer body configured to move between the connector separation position and the connector pressing position; and a connector pusher body connected to the connector pusher retainer body, spaced apart from the connector at the connector separation position, and configured to press the connector toward the cover at the connector pressing position.

[0015] The connector pusher may further include a connector pusher body hole, which is a hole passing through the connector pusher body, and the laser may be configured to be emitted onto the connector through the connector pusher body hole located at the connector pressing position.

[0016] The connector pusher body may be rotatable relative to the connector pusher holder body and movable between a connector welding position and a focusing adjustment position spaced apart from the connector welding position, at which the laser passes through the connector pusher body hole.

[0017] The connector pusher may further include: a connector pusher retainer protrusion protruding from the connector pusher retainer body; and a connector pusher main groove formed as a groove in the connector pusher body, and the connector pusher main groove may be disposed on the connector pusher retainer protrusion based on the connector pusher body being located at the connector welding position.

[0018] The connector pusher may further include a connector pusher retainer latch on the connector pusher retainer body, and the connector pusher retainer latch may contact the connector pusher body to restrict movement of the connector pusher body, based on the connector pusher body being located at the connector welding position.

[0019] The connector pusher may further include a connector pusher driver, which is mounted on a fixed platform and configured to move the connector pusher retainer body between the connector separation position and the connector pressing position.

[0020] The cover conveyor may include a cover turntable, the cover base member is arranged on the cover turntable, and the cover turntable is rotatable about the axis of the cover turntable and can move vertically between a cover rising position and a cover falling position.

[0021] The cover conveyor may further include: a platform hole passing through the cover turntable and formed as an elongated hole; and a focusing and fixing member inserted into the cover base member through the platform hole and fixing the cover base member movable relative to the cover turntable.

[0022] The cover turntable can receive the cover at the cover-down position, rise from the cover-down position to the cover-up position and rotate, and fall from the cover-up position to the cover-down position to weld the cover and the connector by the laser.

[0023] The cover base may include a plurality of cover bases on the outside of the cover turntable, and the plurality of cover bases may be arranged at regular intervals.

[0024] The cover base can be detachably attached to the cover turntable of the cover conveyor.

[0025] The cover base component may include: a base mounting component, fixed to the cover turntable; a base movable component, inserted into the base mounting component, and the distance between the base movable component and the axis of the cover turntable is adjustable; and a focal length changing body, detachably attached to the base movable component.

[0026] The cover can be attached to the focal length replacement body at the cover supply location, and the cover can be detached from the focal length replacement body at the cover welding location.

[0027] The base mounting component may include a base mounting rail extending in the radial direction of the cover turntable axis, and the base moving component may include: a base moving rail unit, a base moving rail unit on the base mounting rail, and the distance of the base moving rail unit from the cover turntable axis is adjustable; and a base replacement rail, fixed to the base moving rail unit, and the focal length replacement body is located on the base replacement rail.

[0028] The focal length replacement body may include: a replacement body groove formed as a recess in the focal length replacement body and configured to arrange the cover in the replacement body groove; and a replacement body vacuum connector protruding from the focal length replacement body. Attached Figure Description

[0029] The accompanying drawings illustrate some embodiments of this disclosure and further describe aspects and features of this disclosure together with the detailed description thereof. However, this disclosure should not be construed as limited to the drawings, in which:

[0030] Figure 1 This is a perspective view illustrating an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure from a first-person perspective;

[0031] Figure 2 This is a perspective view illustrating an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure from a second perspective;

[0032] Figure 3 This is a perspective view from a second perspective illustrating the movement of the connector pusher body of an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure to the connector welding position;

[0033] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of a rotating cover conveying unit of an apparatus for manufacturing secondary batteries according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of a lowered cover conveying unit of an apparatus for manufacturing secondary batteries according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the connector pusher body of an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the connector pusher body moving to the connector welding position.

[0036] Figure 7 This is a perspective view illustrating the movement of a can holder unit in a cap-pressing position of an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 8 This is a perspective view illustrating a terminal pusher unit of an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, moved to the terminal pressing position;

[0038] Figure 9 This is a perspective view illustrating a connector pusher unit of an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, moved to the connector separation position;

[0039] Figure 10 This is a perspective view illustrating the movement of a can retainer unit to a can separation position in an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0040] Figure 11 This is a perspective view illustrating a can welded to a lid moving through a can conveying unit of an apparatus for manufacturing secondary batteries, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] Figure 12 This is a perspective view illustrating a focus correction unit of an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0042] Figure 13 This is a plan view illustrating a focusing correction unit of an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0043] Figure 14This is a side view illustrating a focus correction unit of an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0044] Figure 15 This is an exploded perspective view of a cover base unit of an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Figure 16 This is a perspective view of a cover base unit of an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0046] Figure 17 This is a plan view of a cover base unit of an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0047] Figure 18 This is a side view of a cover base unit of an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0048] Figure 19 This is a perspective view illustrating a first focal length changing body according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0049] Figure 20 This is a perspective view illustrating a second focal length changing body according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0050] Figure 21 This is a perspective view illustrating a focal length changing body on a cover base unit of an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0051] In this document, some embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The terms or words used in this specification and claims should not be construed as limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, and should be interpreted as having meanings and concepts consistent with the technical spirit of the present disclosure, based on the principle that the inventor is capable of being their own lexicographer to appropriately define the concepts of the terms.

[0052] The embodiments described in this specification and the configurations shown in the accompanying drawings are provided as some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure and do not necessarily represent all technical ideas, aspects, and features of this disclosure. Accordingly, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications may exist to replace or modify the embodiments described herein at the time of filing this application.

[0053] It should be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," or "linked to" another element or layer, it can be directly on, directly connected to, or linked to the other element or layer, or one or more intermediary elements or layers may be present. When an element or layer is referred to as being "directly on," "directly connected to," or "directly linked to" another element or layer, no intermediary element or layer is present. For example, when a first element is described as being "linked" or "connected" to a second element, the first element can be directly linked to or connected to the second element, or the first element can be indirectly linked to or connected to the second element via one or more intermediary elements.

[0054] In the figures, the dimensions of various elements, layers, etc., may be exaggerated for clarity of illustration. The same reference numerals denote the same or similar elements. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the related listed items. Furthermore, the use of “may” in describing embodiments of this disclosure refers to “one or more embodiments of this disclosure.” Expressions such as “at least one of…” and “any one of…” modify the entire list of elements when following it, and not individual elements within that list. When phrases such as “at least one of A, B, and C,” “at least one of A, B, or C,” “at least one selected from the group of A, B, and C,” or “at least one selected from A, B, and C” are used to refer to a list of elements A, B, and C, the phrase may refer to any one of A, B, and C and all suitable combinations or subsets of them, such as A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A and B and C. As used herein, the term “use” may be considered synonymous with the term “utilize.” As used herein, the terms “substantially,” “about,” and similar terms are used as approximate terms and not as terms of degree, and are intended to describe the inherent variations in measured or calculated values ​​that would be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0055] It should be understood that although the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or segments, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or segments should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or segment from another element, component, region, layer, or segment. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments, the first element, component, region, layer, or segment discussed below may be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer, or segment.

[0056] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as “below,” “under,” “down,” “above,” and “above” may be used herein to describe the relationship between one element or feature and another element or feature as shown in the figure. It should be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to cover different orientations of the device in use or operation other than the orientation depicted in the figure. For example, if the device in the figure is flipped, an element described as “below” or “under” other elements or features would then be oriented as “above” or “above” other elements or features. Therefore, the term “below” can encompass both above and below orientations. The device may be oriented in other ways (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptive terms used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0057] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments of this disclosure and is not intended to limit this disclosure. As used herein, the singular form “a” is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should be further understood that, when used in this specification, the terms “comprising” and / or “including” specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0058] Furthermore, any numerical range disclosed and / or described herein is intended to include all subranges with the same numerical precision contained within the described range. For example, the range “1.0 to 10.0” is intended to include all subranges between (and including) the described minimum value of 1.0 and the described maximum value of 10.0, i.e., having a minimum value equal to or greater than 1.0 and a maximum value equal to or less than 10.0, such as 2.4 to 7.6. Any maximum numerical limit described herein is intended to include all lower numerical limits contained therein, and any minimum numerical limit described in this specification is intended to include all higher numerical limits contained therein. Accordingly, the applicant reserves the right to amend this specification (including the claims) to expressly describe any subranges contained within the scope expressly described herein.

[0059] Referring to two compared elements, features, etc., as “identical” can mean that they are identical or substantially identical. Therefore, the phrase “identical” or “substantially identical” can include cases with a deviation considered low in the art (e.g., 5% or less). Additionally, when a parameter is said to be consistent in a given region, it can mean that it is consistent with respect to the average value.

[0060] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0061] When any element is referred to as being disposed (or located or positioned) "above (or below)" or "on (or below)" a component, it may mean that the element is placed in contact with the upper (or lower) surface of the component, and may also mean that another component may be located between the component and any element disposed (or located or positioned) on (or below) the component.

[0062] Furthermore, it should be understood that when an element is referred to as "connected," "linked," or "attached" to another element, these elements may be directly "connected," "linked," or "attached" to each other, or one or more intermediary elements may exist between them, through which the element may be "connected," "linked," or "attached" to the other element. Additionally, when a part is referred to as "electrically connected" to another part, the part may be directly electrically connected to the other part, or one or more intermediary elements may exist between them, such that the part and the other part are indirectly electrically connected to each other.

[0063] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise stated, the phrase "A and / or B" means A, B, or A and B. That is, "and / or" includes any one or all of the listed items. Unless otherwise stated, the phrase "C to D" means C and below D.

[0064] The X, Y, and Z axes shown in the diagram are defined as axes perpendicular to each other. The X, Y, and Z axes can be used to help describe the direction of movement, rotation, etc., of a component.

[0065] Figure 1 This is a perspective view illustrating an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure from a first-person perspective; Figure 2 This is a perspective view illustrating an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure from a second perspective; and Figure 3 This is a perspective view from a second perspective illustrating the movement of the connector pusher body of an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure to the connector welding position.

[0066] refer to Figures 1 to 3 This article describes a manufacturing apparatus 1 for secondary batteries.

[0067] The manufacturing equipment 1 for secondary batteries can convey cap P (e.g., see...) Figure 4 The connecting piece T, which is connected to the canister N, is then connected to the cover P. According to one embodiment, the manufacturing apparatus 1 for a secondary battery can join the cover P and the connecting piece T by welding.

[0068] The cover P can be connected to the tank N via a connector T. The cover P can be connected to the tank N via a connector T, or to an electrode assembly disposed inside the tank N. The cover P can be used as an electrode terminal (e.g., a positive or negative electrode terminal) and can be used as a current interruption device (CID) to interrupt current in the event of an event (e.g., thermal runaway) in the secondary battery.

[0069] The manufacturing apparatus 1 for secondary batteries may include a cap conveying unit or cap conveyor 10, a can conveying unit or can conveyor 20, a can retainer unit or can retainer 30, a connector pusher unit or connector pusher 40, and a laser generating unit or laser generator 50. The manufacturing apparatus 1 for secondary batteries may further include a focus correction unit or focus corrector 60.

[0070] The lid conveying unit 10 can convey lid P. In one embodiment, the lid conveying unit 10 can rotate to convey lid P.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the cap conveying unit 10 can rotate about a cap turntable axis PRA parallel to an axis (e.g., the Z-axis). The cap conveying unit 10 can receive cap P at the cap supply position PSP and align cap P with can N at the cap welding position PWP. The cap welding position PWP can be located between the cap conveying unit 10 and the can holder unit 30.

[0072] The cap conveying unit 10 can move along the cap turntable axis PRA. According to one embodiment, the cap conveying unit 10 can rise (e.g., in the +Z axis direction) and fall (e.g., in the -Z axis direction) along the cap turntable axis PRA. The cap conveying unit 10 can move between a cap-rising position PAP and a cap-falling position PDP. According to one embodiment, the cap conveying unit 10 can receive caps P at the cap-falling position PDP and the cap-supply position PSP. The cap conveying unit 10 can rise from the cap-falling position PDP and move to the cap-rising position PAP. The cap conveying unit 10 can rotate at the cap-rising position PAP.

[0073] The cap conveying unit 10, located at the cap lowering position PDP and the cap supply position PSP, can receive the cap P and rise to the cap rising position PAP. The cap conveying unit 10 at the cap rising position PAP can rotate to convey the cap P to the cap welding position PWP. The cap conveying unit 10 at the cap welding position PWP can descend to the cap lowering position PDP. Therefore, the cap P can be aligned with the can N.

[0074] Multiple cans N can be mounted on the can conveying unit 20, and the can conveying unit 20 can move the cans N in one direction (e.g., the +X axis direction). A connecting piece T can be mounted to the cans N, and the cans N connected to the connecting piece T can be moved by the can conveying unit 20 to the position where the cover P is mounted.

[0075] The can retainer unit 30 can contact the can N disposed on the can conveying unit 20. The can retainer unit 30 can move parallel to a direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction). According to one embodiment, the can retainer unit 30 can move in a direction (e.g., the +Y-axis direction or the direction in which the cap conveying unit 10 is arranged) to press the can N. As the can retainer unit 30 presses the can N, the position of the can N can be fixed.

[0076] The can retainer unit 30 can move in one direction (e.g., the +Y axis direction) from a can-separated position NSP, spaced apart from can N, to a can-pressed position NPP, contacting can N. The can retainer unit 30 can also move in another direction (e.g., the -Y axis direction) from the can-pressed position NPP, contacting can N, to secure can N, and can be spaced apart from can N to release the securement of can N.

[0077] The connector pusher unit 40 can rotate about an axis (e.g., an axis parallel to the X-axis). In one embodiment, the connector pusher unit 40 can rotate about a single axis to move between a connector welding position TWP adjacent to the connector T and a focus adjustment position FAP spaced apart from the connector T.

[0078] The connector pusher unit 40 can contact the connector T connected to the can N. The connector pusher unit 40 can move parallel to a direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction). In one embodiment, the can retainer unit 30 and the connector pusher unit 40 can move independently. According to one embodiment, the connector pusher unit 40 can move in a direction (e.g., the +Y-axis direction) to press the connector T connected to the can N. As the connector pusher unit 40 presses the connector T, the position of the connector T can be fixed.

[0079] The connector pusher unit 40 can move in one direction (e.g., the +Y axis direction) from a connector separation position TSP spaced apart from connector T to a connector pressing position TPP contacting connector T. The connector pusher unit 40 can also move in another direction (e.g., the -Y axis direction) from the connector pressing position TPP contacting connector T to a connector separation position TSP spaced apart from connector T. Therefore, the connector pusher unit 40 can contact connector T to secure connector T, and can space apart from connector T to release the securing effect on connector T.

[0080] The connector pusher unit 40 can move between the connector pressing position TPP and the connector separating position TSP to contact and space from the connector T. Even when moving between the connector pressing position TPP and the connector separating position TSP, the connector pusher unit 40 at the focus adjustment position FAP may not contact the connector T.

[0081] Laser generating unit 50 can generate laser L (see...) Figure 8 The laser L generated by the laser generating unit 50 can be emitted onto the terminal block T that contacts the cover P. The laser L can be emitted onto the terminal block T, causing the cover P to be soldered to the terminal block T.

[0082] In the process of laser welding of the cap P and the connector T, the cap conveying unit 10 can be set at the cap welding position PWP and the cap lowering position PDP, the can conveying unit 20 can not convey the can N, the can retainer unit 30 can be set at the can pressing position NPP where it contacts and presses the can N, and the connector pusher unit 40 can be set at the connector welding position TWP and the connector pressing position TPP where it contacts the connector T.

[0083] Therefore, the connector T and the cover P can be laser-welded while the tank N, connector T and cover P are fixed.

[0084] When the connector T and the cap P are welded by laser L, the connector pusher unit 40 can move in one direction (e.g., the -Y axis direction) from the connector pressing position TPP to the connector separating position TSP. Therefore, the connector pusher unit 40 can be spaced apart from the connector T. Additionally, the can retainer unit 30 can move in one direction (e.g., the -Y axis direction) from the can pressing position NPP to the can separating position NSP. Therefore, the can retainer unit 30 can be spaced apart from the can N. The cap conveying unit 10 can move in one direction (e.g., the +Z axis direction) from the cap lowering position PDP to the cap rising position PAP. Therefore, the cap conveying unit 10 can be spaced apart from the cap P connected to the connector T.

[0085] A focusing correction unit 60 can be disposed on the can holder unit 30 to adjust the distance between the laser generating unit 50 and the terminal piece T. The welding quality can vary depending on the relationship between the distance between the laser generating unit 50 and the terminal piece T and the focal length of the laser L. For example, if the distance between the laser generating unit 50 and the terminal piece T exceeds the focal length, the welding quality may be poor, potentially leading to defects in the secondary battery being manufactured.

[0086] The focusing correction unit 60 can finely adjust the distance between the laser generating unit 50 and the connecting piece T, and the distance between the laser generating unit 50 and the connecting piece T can be set within the focal length of the laser L.

[0087] Here, the configuration of manufacturing equipment 1 for secondary batteries will be described.

[0088] The cover conveying unit 10 may include a cover turntable 110 and a cover base unit or cover base component 120.

[0089] The cover turntable 110 can be supported by the cover turntable support 1100 and can rotate about the cover turntable axis PRA. In one embodiment, the cover turntable 110 can be generally disc-shaped.

[0090] The cover turntable 110 can move parallel to a direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction). According to one embodiment, the cover turntable 110 can move vertically between a cover-up position PAP and a cover-down position PDP in the direction of the cover turntable axis PRA. The cover turntable 110 can rise and be positioned at the cover-up position PAP, and can fall and be positioned at the cover-down position PDP.

[0091] As the lid turntable 110 moves vertically between the lid-up position PAP and the lid-down position PDP, the lid P can be supplied to the lid base unit 120 and disengage from the lid base unit 120 and engage with the can N. According to one embodiment, the lid turntable 110 can receive the lid P at the lid-down position PDP and bring the lid P into contact with the connecting piece T. The lid turntable 110 can rotate at the lid-up position PAP.

[0092] The cover base unit 120 may be disposed on the cover turntable 110. The cover base unit 120 may be disposed on the cover turntable 110, and the cover P may be disposed on the cover base unit 120. In one embodiment, the cover base unit 120 may be detachably attached to the cover turntable 110.

[0093] In one embodiment, the material of the cover turntable 110 may include metal. According to one embodiment, the material of the cover turntable 110 may include aluminum, copper, magnesium, etc. In one embodiment, the material of the cover turntable 110 may include duralumin.

[0094] The cover base unit 120 may be disposed on the outer side of the cover turntable 110. According to one embodiment, the cover base unit 120 may be disposed on the outer surface of the cover turntable 110 in the radial direction. The cover base unit 120 may be provided as a plurality of cover base units. In one embodiment, the cover base units 120 may be arranged at regular intervals centered on the cover turntable axis PRA of the cover turntable 110. In one embodiment, four cover base units 120 may be provided on the cover turntable 110. However, the arrangement of four cover base units 120 on the cover turntable 110 is merely one embodiment among various embodiments, and this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0095] The cover base unit 120 can be positioned at the cover supply position PSP and the cover welding position PWP according to the rotation of the cover turntable 110.

[0096] The cap welding position PWP can be defined as the position where the cap P, located on the cap base unit 120, aligns with the can N. According to one embodiment, the cap base unit 120, located in the -Y axis direction of the cap turntable 110, can be located at the cap welding position PWP.

[0097] The cap supply position PSP can be defined as the position where the cap P is supplied and positioned on the cap base unit 120. The cap supply position PSP can be varied. According to one embodiment, the cap supply position PSP can be located in the +X axis direction, the +Y axis direction, and / or the -X axis direction of the cap turntable 110.

[0098] When the cover turntable 110 is positioned at the cover lowering position PDP and the cover base unit 120 is positioned at the cover supply position PSP, the cover P can be supplied to the cover base unit 120. After the cover P is supplied to the cover base unit 120 and placed on it, the cover turntable 110 can rise to the cover rising position PAP. The cover turntable 110 positioned at the cover rising position PAP can rotate about the cover turntable axis PRA. The cover turntable 110 can stop after rotating a certain angle (e.g., a set angle). According to one embodiment, the set angle can be 90 degrees. However, the angle of rotation of the cover turntable 110 is not limited to 90 degrees, and can be greater than 0 degrees and less than 180 degrees.

[0099] When the cover turntable 110 stops after rotating at a set angle, the cover base unit 120 can be positioned at the cover welding position PWP. When the cover base unit 120 is positioned at the cover welding position PWP, the cover turntable 110 can descend to the cover lowering position PDP. When the cover base unit 120 with the cover P is positioned at the cover welding position PWP, the cover P can be welded to the connecting piece T connected to the tank N. After welding the cover P and the connecting piece T, the cover turntable 110 can rise to the cover rising position PAP. As the cover turntable 110 rises to the cover rising position PAP, the cover base unit 120 can also rise. As the cover base unit 120 rises, the cover P, welded to the connecting piece T and positioned on the cover base unit 120, can be spaced apart from the cover base unit 120.

[0100] The can conveying unit 20 can extend parallel to a direction (e.g., the X-axis direction) and convey cans N. According to one embodiment, the can conveying unit 20 can move cans N connected to the connecting piece T in a direction (e.g., the +X-axis direction). The can conveying unit 20 can repeatedly stop after moving cans N a certain distance (e.g., a set distance) and then stop again after moving cans N a set distance. When the can conveying unit 20 stops conveying cans N, the connecting piece T attached to at least one of the plurality of cans N disposed on the can conveying unit 20 can be welded to the cover P.

[0101] The can N, aligned with the cover base unit 120 located at the cover welding position PWP, can be welded to the cover P. The cover welding position PWP can be located between the cover turntable 110 and the can retainer unit 30.

[0102] According to one embodiment, the connector T of the tank N, which is attached to the cap base unit 120 aligned with the cap welding position PWP, can be welded to the cap P.

[0103] When the can conveying unit 20 stops, the cap P and the connecting piece T can be welded, and the can N welded to the cap P and the connecting piece T can be moved in one direction (e.g., the +X axis direction) by the can conveying unit 20. In this way, the can conveying unit 20 can be repeatedly stopped after moving the can N a set distance in one direction (e.g., the +X axis direction).

[0104] The can retainer unit 30 can be mounted on a fixed stage FT. According to one embodiment, the can retainer unit 30 can be mounted on the fixed stage FT (e.g., in the +Z axis direction). The can retainer unit 30 can move relative to the fixed stage FT in a direction parallel to one direction (e.g., the Y axis direction).

[0105] The can retainer unit 30 can move relative to the fixed stage FT in the -Y-axis direction to the can separation position NSP, and can be spaced apart from the can N. The can retainer unit 30 can move relative to the fixed stage FT in the +Y-axis direction to the can pressing position NPP, and can contact the can N. The can retainer unit 30 can move in one direction (e.g., the +Y-axis direction) to the can pressing position NPP to contact and press the can N. As the can retainer unit 30 presses the can N, the can N can be secured by the can retainer unit 30.

[0106] The can retainer unit 30 may include a can retainer plate 300, a can retainer body 310, a can connection body 320, a can concave body 330, and a can retainer drive unit or a can retainer driver 340.

[0107] The can retainer plate 300 is movable relative to the fixed stage FT. The can retainer plate 300 can be provided in a generally plate shape.

[0108] The can retainer unit 30 may include a can retainer plate protrusion 301, which is formed to protrude from the can retainer plate 300.

[0109] The can retainer plate protrusion 301 can be connected to the can retainer plate elastic member 302. The can retainer plate elastic member 302 can be provided as an elastomer to generate elastic force according to deformation. According to one embodiment, the can retainer plate elastic member 302 can generate tensile force.

[0110] One end of the can retainer plate elastic member 302 can be connected to the can retainer plate protrusion 301, and the other end of the can retainer plate elastic member 302 can be connected to the fixed platform protrusion FT1 formed as protruding from the fixed platform FT. The fixed platform protrusion FT1 can be disposed between the can retainer plate protrusion 301 and the lid conveying unit 10.

[0111] As the can retainer plate 300 moves away from the cap delivery unit 10 in one direction (e.g., the -Y-axis direction), a tensile force can be generated in the can retainer plate elastic member 302. According to one embodiment, since the can retainer plate 300 is positioned at the can separation position NSP, a tensile force is generated in the can retainer plate elastic member 302. Therefore, the can retainer plate 300 can move toward the cap delivery unit 10 in one direction (e.g., the +Y-axis direction) by the tensile force of the can retainer plate elastic member 302. The can retainer plate 300 can move toward the cap delivery unit 10 to move to the can pressing position NPP. The can retainer plate elastic member 302 can generate a tensile force to move the can retainer unit 30 to the can pressing position NPP.

[0112] A can retainer plate contact unit 303 may be disposed on the can retainer plate 300. The can retainer plate contact unit 303 may protrude from the can retainer plate 300 to contact the can retainer drive unit 340. The can retainer drive unit 340 may contact the can retainer plate contact unit 303 to move the can retainer plate 300 to the can separation position NSP. In one embodiment, the can retainer drive unit 340 may receive driving force from a motor (not shown) to move the can retainer plate 300.

[0113] When the can retainer drive unit 340 is not in operation, the can retainer unit 30 can be positioned at the can pressing position NPP via the can retainer plate elastic member 302, and when the can retainer drive unit 340 is in operation, the can retainer unit 30 can be moved to the can separation position NSP via the can retainer drive unit 340.

[0114] The can retainer body 310 may be disposed on the can retainer plate 300. According to one embodiment, the can retainer body 310 may be disposed on the can retainer plate 300 (e.g., in the +Z axis direction). The can retainer body 310 may protrude from the can retainer plate 300 toward the cap delivery unit 10.

[0115] The can connection body 320 can be connected to the can retainer body 310. According to one embodiment, the can connection body 320 can be (e.g., in the +Z axis direction) disposed on the can retainer body 310. The can connection body 320 can protrude from the can retainer body 310 toward the cap delivery unit 10.

[0116] A retainer groove 321 may be disposed in the can connection body 320. A focus correction unit 60 may be disposed on the can connection body 320 (e.g., in the +Z axis direction). According to one embodiment, the focus correction unit 60 may be mounted in the retainer groove 321 and may be used to adjust the position of the cover base unit 120 by means of connection to the cover base unit 120.

[0117] The can concave body 330 can be connected to the can connecting body 320. According to one embodiment, the can concave body 330 can be (e.g., in the +Y axis direction) disposed on one side of the can connecting body 320 and disposed between the can connecting body 320 and the cap conveying unit 10.

[0118] A groove can be formed in the concave body 330 of the can. The groove formed in the concave body 330 of the can can contact the can N. According to one embodiment, when the can retainer unit 30 is provided in the can pressing position NPP, the groove formed in the concave body 330 of the can and the can N can contact each other to press the can N. When the can retainer unit 30 is provided in the can separation position NSP, the concave body 330 of the can can be spaced apart from the can N.

[0119] When the can conveying unit 20 stops and the conveying of can N stops, the can retainer unit 30 can move to the can pressing position NPP to press can N. When the can retainer unit 30 moves to the can separation position NSP so that the can concave body 330 is spaced apart from can N, the can conveying unit 20 can convey can N.

[0120] The fixed stage retainer rail unit or fixed stage retainer rail FTHR can be disposed on the fixed stage FT. According to one embodiment, the fixed stage retainer rail unit FTHR can be disposed on the fixed stage FT (e.g., in the +Z axis direction).

[0121] The fixed platform retainer rail unit FTHR can be configured to extend parallel to one direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction). The can retainer plate 300 can be disposed on the fixed platform retainer rail unit FTHR and can move in the longitudinal direction of the fixed platform retainer rail unit FTHR. Therefore, the direction of movement of the can retainer plate 300 can be restricted. For example, the direction of movement of the can retainer plate 300 can be parallel to the Y-axis direction.

[0122] The connector pusher unit 40 may include a connector pusher moving plate unit or connector pusher moving plate 400, a connector pusher retainer body 410, a connector pusher body 420, and a connector pusher drive unit or connector pusher driver 430.

[0123] The connector pusher moving plate unit 400 is movable relative to the fixed stage FT. According to one embodiment, the connector pusher moving plate unit 400 is movable relative to the fixed stage FT in a direction parallel to one direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction). The connector pusher moving plate unit 400 can move in the +Y-axis direction to the connector pressing position TPP, and the connector pusher moving plate unit 400 can move in the -Y-axis direction to the connector separating position TSP.

[0124] The first fixed stage pusher rail unit or the first fixed stage pusher rail FTPR1 and the second fixed stage pusher rail unit or the second fixed stage pusher rail FTPR2 can be disposed on the fixed stage FT. The first fixed stage pusher rail unit FTPR1 and the second fixed stage pusher rail unit FTPR2 can be disposed to extend in one direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction).

[0125] The second fixed stage pusher rail unit FTPR2 can be located between the first fixed stage pusher rail unit FTPR1 and the fixed stage retainer rail unit FTHR.

[0126] In one embodiment, the connector pusher moving plate unit 400 includes a first connector pusher moving plate 400-1, a second connector pusher moving plate 400-2, and a third connector pusher moving plate 400-3.

[0127] The first connector pusher moving plate 400-1 and the second connector pusher moving plate 400-2 can be spaced apart from each other and disposed on the first fixed stage pusher rail unit FTPR1, and move in the longitudinal direction of the first fixed stage pusher rail unit FTPR1.

[0128] The third connector pusher moving plate 400-3 can be set on the second fixed stage pusher rail unit FTPR2 to move in the longitudinal direction of the second fixed stage pusher rail unit FTPR2.

[0129] The second connector pusher moving plate 400-2 can be disposed between the first connector pusher moving plate 400-1 and the connector pusher retainer body 410.

[0130] The first connector pusher moving plate 400-1 and the second connector pusher moving plate 400-2 can be connected via a connector pusher buffer unit or a connector pusher buffer 404. When the connector pusher moving plate unit 400 moves, the connector pusher buffer unit 404 can reduce the impact between the first connector pusher moving plate 400-1 and the second connector pusher moving plate 400-2 and adjust the distance between them.

[0131] A connector pusher guide 403 may be disposed on a first connector pusher movable plate 400-1. The connector pusher guide 403 may be connected to a connector pusher drive unit 430 and moved by driving the connector pusher drive unit 430. As the connector pusher guide 403 moves, the first connector pusher movable plate 400-1 may also move.

[0132] The second connector pusher moving plate 400-2 and the third connector pusher moving plate 400-3 can be connected by the connector pusher connecting plate 401. Therefore, the second connector pusher moving plate 400-2 and the third connector pusher moving plate 400-3 can move together with each other.

[0133] In one embodiment, the connector pusher support 402 may be disposed on the connector pusher connecting plate 401. The connector pusher support 402 can connect the connector pusher connecting plate 401 to the connector pusher retainer body 410.

[0134] In this way, the connector pusher moving plate unit 400 can be moved by driving the connector pusher driving unit 430, and the connector pusher retainer body 410 can be moved by moving the connector pusher moving plate unit 400. The connector pusher retainer body 410 can move between the connector pressing position TPP and the connector separating position TSP.

[0135] The connector pusher retainer body 410 can be connected to the connector pusher support 402 to move parallel to a direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction).

[0136] In one embodiment, the connector pusher retainer protrusion 411 and the connector pusher retainer latch 412 may be disposed on the connector pusher retainer body 410.

[0137] The connector pusher retainer protrusion 411 can contact the connector pusher main groove 422 of the connector pusher body 420.

[0138] The connector pusher retainer latch 412 can contact the connector pusher main engagement groove 423 of the connector pusher body 420 to limit the rotation of the connector pusher body 420.

[0139] The connector pusher body 420 is rotatable relative to the connector pusher retainer body 410. According to one embodiment, the connector pusher body 420 is rotatable about the connector pusher body rotation axis TPRA.

[0140] The connector pusher unit 40 may include a connector pusher body hole 421, which is provided as a hole passing through the connector pusher body 420. The connector pusher body hole 421 may pass through the connector pusher body 420 in one direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction). The laser L can be emitted onto the connector T through the connector pusher body hole 421.

[0141] The connector pusher body 420 can rotate and move between the connector welding position TWP and the focus adjustment position FAP.

[0142] The connector pusher body 420, located at the connector welding position TWP, can contact the connector pusher retainer protrusion 411, and the laser L can be emitted onto the connector T through the connector pusher body hole 421.

[0143] The connector pusher body 420, located at the focus adjustment position FAP, can be spaced apart from the connector pusher retainer protrusion 411, and the laser L will not pass through the connector pusher body hole 421.

[0144] A main groove 422 for the connector pusher, formed as a recess, can be provided in the connector pusher body 420. The main groove 422 of the connector pusher body 420, located at the connector welding position TWP, can contact the connector pusher retainer protrusion 411 and can restrict the rotation of the connector pusher body 420.

[0145] A concave and inclined slot, forming a main engagement groove 423 for the connector pusher, can be provided in the connector pusher body 420. The main engagement groove 423 of the connector pusher body 420, located at the connector welding position TWP, can contact the connector pusher retainer latch 412. With the main engagement groove 423 contacting the connector pusher retainer latch 412, rotation of the connector pusher body 420 located at the connector welding position TWP can be restricted.

[0146] The movement of the connector pusher body 420 located at the connector welding position TWP can be limited by the connector pusher retainer protrusion 411 and the connector pusher retainer latch 412.

[0147] In one embodiment, the connector pusher contact body 424 may be disposed on the connector pusher body 420. The connector pusher contact body 424 may be disposed on one side of the connector pusher body 420 (e.g., in the +Y axis direction).

[0148] The connector pusher contact body 424 can contact the connector T. According to one embodiment, when the connector pusher unit 40 is positioned at the connector welding position TWP and the connector pressing position TPP, the connector pusher contact body 424 can contact the connector T. The connector pusher contact body 424 positioned at the connector welding position TWP and the connector pressing position TPP can contact the connector T to press the connector T in one direction (e.g., the +Y axis direction). Therefore, the contact area between the connector T and the cover P can be widened.

[0149] In one embodiment, the connector pusher contact body 424 may include a magnet. In one embodiment, the connector pusher contact body 424 includes a magnet, and the connector pusher contact body 424 disposed at the connector soldering position TWP and the connector pressing position TPP can generate an attractive force with the connector T and / or the cover P to make the connector T and the cover P in close contact.

[0150] The connector pusher unit 40 may include a connector pusher contact body hole 4241 extending through the connector pusher contact body 424. A laser L can be emitted onto the connector T through the connector pusher contact body hole 4241 located at the connector welding position TWP and the connector pressing position TPP.

[0151] When laser L is generated, the connector pusher unit 40 can be positioned at the connector welding position TWP and the connector pressing position TPP. After the generation of laser L ends, the connector pusher unit 40 can be positioned at the connector welding position TWP and the connector separation position TSP. Therefore, the connector pusher unit 40 can be spaced apart from the connector T.

[0152] The laser generating unit 50 can generate a laser L. The laser L generated by the laser generating unit 50 can be emitted onto the terminal block T that overlaps with the cover P. The laser L can be emitted onto the terminal block T, so that the cover P is soldered to the terminal block T.

[0153] The focusing correction unit 60 can be disposed in the retainer groove 321 of the can connecting body 320 and can contact the cover base unit 120. The focusing correction unit 60 can adjust the position of the cover base unit 120 by contacting the cover base unit 120. In this way, as the position of the cover base unit 120 is adjusted by the focusing correction unit 60, the distance between the laser generating unit 50 and the cover base unit 120 can be set to the focal length of the laser L.

[0154] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of a rotating cover conveying unit of an apparatus for manufacturing secondary batteries according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 5 This is a perspective view of a lowered cover conveying unit of an apparatus for manufacturing secondary batteries according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the connector pusher body of an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the connector pusher body moving to the connector welding position. Figure 7 This is a perspective view illustrating the movement of a can holder unit in a cap-pressing position of an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8 This is a perspective view illustrating a terminal pusher unit of an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, moved to the terminal pressing position; Figure 9 This is a perspective view illustrating a connector pusher unit of an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, moved to the connector separation position; Figure 10 This is a perspective view illustrating a can retainer unit of an apparatus for manufacturing secondary batteries according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, moved to a can separation position; and Figure 11This is a perspective view illustrating a can welded to a lid moving through a can conveying unit of an apparatus for manufacturing secondary batteries, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0155] Figures 4 to 11 The illustrated manufacturing equipment for secondary batteries includes: 1. a cover conveying unit; 10. a can conveying unit; 20. a can holder unit; 30. a connector pusher unit; 40. a laser generating unit; 50. a focusing and correction unit; and 60. a fixed stage FT. Figures 1 to 3 The manufacturing equipment 1 for secondary batteries illustrated herein includes the same cover conveying unit 10, can conveying unit 20, can holder unit 30, connector pusher unit 40, laser generating unit 50, focusing correction unit 60, and stationary stage FT. Therefore, further description of the same components can be omitted.

[0156] Reference Figure 4 The cover P is described as moving via the cover conveying unit 10.

[0157] exist Figure 4 In this embodiment, the connector pusher body 420 is located at the focus adjustment position FAP, but is not limited thereto, and the connector pusher body 420 may be located at the focus adjustment position FAP and / or the connector welding position TWP.

[0158] exist Figure 4 In this embodiment, the can retainer unit 30 is disposed at the can separation position NSP, but is not limited thereto, and in one embodiment, the can retainer unit 30 may be disposed at the can separation position NSP and / or the can pressing position NPP.

[0159] The cap P can be supplied to the cap conveying unit 10, and the cap P can be disposed on the cap base unit 120 disposed on the cap turntable 110. According to one embodiment, the cap P can be disposed on the cap base unit 120 disposed at the cap supply position PSP.

[0160] When the cap P is supplied to the cap conveying unit 10, the cap conveying unit 10 can be positioned at the cap lowering position PDP. After the cap P supplied to the cap conveying unit 10 is positioned on the cap base unit 120, the cap conveying unit 10 can rise and move to the cap rising position PAP.

[0161] The cap delivery unit 10, which has moved to the cap rising position PAP, can rotate about the cap turntable axis PRA. According to one embodiment, the cap turntable 110 can rotate about the cap turntable axis PRA. Therefore, the cap base unit 120, which is located at the cap supply position PSP, can move to the cap welding position PWP.

[0162] The cap base unit 120, which is moved to the cap welding position PWP, can be disposed adjacent to the tank N. According to one embodiment, the cap P disposed on the cap base unit 120 can be aligned with the tank N.

[0163] Reference Figures 5 to 7 This describes an example of the lid conveyor unit 10 moving from the lid rising position PAP to the lid falling position PDP, the can retainer unit 30 moving from the can separating position NSP to the can pressing position NPP, and the connector pusher unit 40 moving from the focus adjustment position FAP to the connector welding position TWP.

[0164] exist Figure 5 In this embodiment, the connector pusher body 420 is located at the focus adjustment position FAP, but is not limited thereto, and the connector pusher body 420 may be located at the focus adjustment position FAP and / or the connector welding position TWP.

[0165] exist Figure 5 In this embodiment, the can retainer unit 30 is disposed at the can separation position NSP, but is not limited thereto, and in one embodiment, the can retainer unit 30 may be disposed at the can separation position NSP and / or the can pressing position NPP.

[0166] refer to Figure 5 When the cover base unit 120 is positioned at the cover welding position PWP, the rotation of the cover turntable 110 can be stopped. The cover turntable 110, positioned at the cover rising position PAP, can descend and move to the cover falling position PDP. Therefore, the cover P positioned on the cover base unit 120 can overlap with the wiring piece T attached to the tank N.

[0167] refer to Figure 6 The connector pusher body 420 can rotate around the connector pusher body rotation axis TPRA to move from the focus adjustment position FAP to the connector welding position TWP.

[0168] refer to Figure 7 The can retainer unit 30 can move from the can-separated position NSP to the can-pressed position NPP. The can retainer unit 30 can be positioned at the can-separated position NSP by driving the can retainer drive unit 340. When the can retainer drive unit 340 is not driven, the can retainer unit 30 can be moved to the can-pressed position NPP by the tension of the can retainer plate elastic member 302 that connects the fixed platform protrusion FT1 to the can retainer plate protrusion 301. The can retainer unit 30 can move along the fixed platform retainer rail unit FTHR provided on the fixed platform FT.

[0169] However, Figure 5 The illustrated lid conveying unit 10 moves from the lid rising position PAP to the lid falling position PDP. Figure 6 The illustrated movement of the connector pusher body 420 from the focus adjustment position FAP to the connector welding position TWP and Figure 7The sequence in which the can holder unit 30 moves from the can separation position NSP to the can pressing position NPP, as illustrated in the example, can vary.

[0170] For example, the manufacturing equipment 1 for secondary batteries can be manufactured according to... Figure 7 , Figure 6 and Figure 5 Move in order, or according to Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 5 The order of movement is not limited to that of the manufacturing equipment 1 for secondary batteries. Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 The order.

[0171] refer to Figure 8 The cover base unit 120, which has a cover P to be welded, is located at the cover welding position PWP. The cover conveying unit 10 is located at the cover lowering position PDP. The can retainer unit 30 is located at the can pressing position NPP. The connector pusher body 420 is located at the connector welding position TWP.

[0172] By driving the connector pusher drive unit 430, the connector pusher unit 40 can move from the connector separation position TSP to the connector pressing position TPP. By driving the connector pusher drive unit 430, the connector pusher guide 403 can move, and by moving the connector pusher moving plate unit 400 connected to the connector pusher guide 403, the connector pusher holder body 410 can move in one direction (e.g., the +Y axis direction). Therefore, the connector pusher body 420 connected to the connector pusher holder body 410 can move from the connector separation position TSP to the connector pressing position TPP.

[0173] Therefore, the connector pusher contact body 424 disposed on the connector pusher body 420 can contact the connector T to press the connector T toward the cover P. In one embodiment, the connector pusher contact body 424 may include a magnet, and the cover P may be brought into close contact with the connector T by the attraction force generated between the connector pusher contact body 424 and the cover P and / or the connector T.

[0174] The laser L generated by the laser generating unit 50 can pass through the main body hole 421 of the connector pusher and can be emitted onto the connector T through the connector pusher contact main body hole 4241. The laser L emitted onto the connector T can weld the connector T and the cover P.

[0175] refer to Figure 9The connector pusher unit 40 can move from the connector pressing position TPP to the connector separating position TSP via the connector pusher drive unit 430, see reference. Figure 10 The can retainer unit 30 can be moved from the can pressing position NPP to the can separating position NSP by the can retainer drive unit 340. In one embodiment, the can retainer unit 30 and the connector pusher unit 40 of the manufacturing apparatus 1 for secondary batteries can be... Figure 9 and Figure 10 Move in order, or in Figure 10 and Figure 9 The can holder unit 30 and the connector pusher unit 40 can move in sequence. In one embodiment, the can holder unit 30 and the connector pusher unit 40 can move synchronously (e.g., simultaneously).

[0176] refer to Figure 11 The cover conveying unit 10 can rise from the cover lowering position PDP to the cover rising position PAP. Therefore, the cover base unit 120 provided at the cover welding position PWP can be spaced apart from the welded cover P.

[0177] The can conveying unit 20 can convey welded cans N. According to one embodiment, the can conveying unit 20 can convey cans N with caps P welded to connectors T in one direction (e.g., the +X axis direction). The can conveying unit 20 can stop after conveying cans N with caps P welded to connectors T a certain distance (e.g., a set distance).

[0178] Subsequently, the manufacturing equipment 1 for secondary batteries can be repeated. Figures 4 to 11 The operations illustrated in .

[0179] Figure 12 This is a perspective view illustrating a focus correction unit of an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 13 This is a plan view illustrating a focusing correction unit of an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and Figure 14 This is a side view of a focus correction unit of an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0180] Figures 12 to 14 The focus correction unit 60 illustrated in the example can be used with Figure 1 and Figure 2 The focus correction unit 60 illustrated herein is identical. Therefore, further description of the same components can be omitted.

[0181] refer to Figures 12 to 14The focus correction unit 60 can be disposed on the can holder unit 30. According to one embodiment, the focus correction unit 60 can be disposed on the can connecting body 320. The focus correction unit 60 can be disposed in a holder groove 321 formed in the can connecting body 320 and can contact the cover base unit 120. The focus correction unit 60 can correct the position of the cover base unit 120 by contacting the cover base unit 120.

[0182] In one embodiment, the focus correction unit 60 may include a focus substrate 600, a focus connection plate 610, a focus contact unit 620, and a focus adjustment actuator 630.

[0183] The focusing substrate 600 can be disposed on the can connecting body 320. The focusing substrate 600 can be fixedly disposed on the can connecting body 320.

[0184] The focusing connection plate 610 can be disposed on the focusing substrate 600. The focusing connection plate 610 can move relative to the focusing substrate 600.

[0185] The focusing contact unit 620 can be configured to be connected to the focusing connecting plate 610. In one embodiment, the focusing contact unit 620 can move together with the focusing connecting plate 610.

[0186] The focusing contact unit 620 can contact the cover base unit 120. In one embodiment, when the position of the cover base unit 120, which is adjusted to move relative to the cover turntable 110, is set, the focusing contact unit 620 can serve as a reference point for the movement of the cover base unit 120.

[0187] The focus adjustment actuator 630 can connect the focus substrate 600 to the focus connection plate 610. In one embodiment, the focus adjustment actuator 630 can move in micrometers to move the focus connection plate 610 relative to the focus substrate 600. In one embodiment, the focus connection plate 610 and the focus contact unit 620 can move in micrometers relative to the focus substrate 600, and the movement of the cover base unit 120 in contact with the focus contact unit 620 can also be adjusted in micrometers.

[0188] Figure 15 This is an exploded perspective view of a cover base unit of an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 16 This is a perspective view of a cover base unit of an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 17 This is a plan view of a cover base unit of an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and Figure 18 This is a side view of a cover base unit of an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0189] Figures 15 to 18 The cover turntable 110 and cover base unit 120 illustrated herein can be connected with Figures 1 to 14 The cover turntable 110 and cover base unit 120 illustrated are identical. Therefore, further description of the same components can be omitted.

[0190] refer to Figures 15 to 18 The cover conveying unit 10 may include a platform hole 111, a focusing and fixing component 112, a base mounting and fixing component 113, and a micro-focusing and fixing component 114.

[0191] The stage hole 111 can be provided as a hole passing through the cover turntable 110. The stage hole 111 can pass through the cover turntable 110 in a vertical direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction). In one embodiment, the stage hole 111 can be provided as an elongated hole shape.

[0192] The focusing and fixing member 112 can be inserted into the stage hole 111. The focusing and fixing member 112 can be inserted into the stage hole 111, which is formed as an elongated hole, and can move in the longitudinal direction of the elongated hole. The focusing and fixing member 112 can be inserted into the base moving unit or the base moving member 122 via the base mounting unit or the base mounting member 121. The hole formed in the base mounting unit 121 through which the focusing and fixing member 112 passes can also be provided as an elongated hole.

[0193] In one embodiment, the hole formed in the base mounting unit 121 is provided as an elongated hole, and the base moving unit 122, into which the focusing fixing member 112 is inserted, can move relative to the base mounting unit 121 in the longitudinal direction of the elongated hole.

[0194] The base mounting fixing member 113 can pass through the cover turntable 110 in the vertical direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction). The base mounting fixing member 113 can be fixed to the base mounting unit 121 through the cover turntable 110. Therefore, the base mounting unit 121 can be fixed to the cover turntable 110.

[0195] The base moving unit 122 can be inserted into the base mounting unit 121 to move along the base mounting rail 1211 of the base mounting unit 121. According to one embodiment, the base moving unit 122 can be inserted into the base mounting rail 1211 such that the distance protruding from the base mounting unit 121 can be adjusted. In one embodiment, the base mounting rail 1211 can extend in the radial direction of the cover turntable axis PRA.

[0196] The base moving unit 122 may include a base moving rail unit or base moving rail 1221 and a base replacement rail unit or base replacement rail 1222. The base moving rail unit 1221 may be fixedly connected to the base replacement rail unit 1222. In one embodiment, the base moving rail unit 1221 may be on the base mounting rail 1211.

[0197] The focusing fixing member 112 can be inserted into the base moving rail unit 1221. The insertion distance of the base moving rail unit 1221 in the base mounting unit 121 can be adjusted, and the base moving rail unit 1221 can be fixed to the base mounting unit 121. In one embodiment, the distance between the base moving unit 122 (e.g., the base moving rail unit 1221) and the cover turntable axis PRA can be adjusted.

[0198] The focal length changing body 123 can be disposed on the base changing rail unit 1222. According to one embodiment, the focal length changing body 123 can be configured to be inserted into the base changing rail unit 1222.

[0199] The focal length changing body 123 may include a changing body groove 1231 and a changing body vacuum connection unit or a changing body vacuum connector 1232, with a cover P disposed in the changing body groove 1231. A changing body vacuum hole 1231A communicating with the changing body vacuum connection unit 1232 may be formed in the changing body groove 1231. In one embodiment, the changing body vacuum connection unit 1232 may be connected to a drive source (not illustrated) for generating vacuum pressure, such that negative pressure can be generated, and the negative pressure can be generated in the changing body vacuum hole 1231A. Therefore, the cover P can be adsorbed into the focal length changing body 123. In one embodiment, the changing body vacuum connection unit 1232 may protrude from the focal length changing body 123.

[0200] The focal length changing body 123 can be connected to and disconnected from the base changing rail unit 1222. In one embodiment, the focal length changing body 123 can be replaced with another focal length changing body 123.

[0201] The focal length support 124 can be secured by a microfocusing fixing member 114 passing through the cover turntable 110. According to one embodiment, the microfocusing fixing member 114 can be inserted into the focal length support 124 through the cover turntable 110. Therefore, the focal length support 124 can be secured to the cover turntable 110.

[0202] A focus adjustment unit 125 may be disposed on a focus support 124. The focus adjustment unit 125 may be fixed to the focus support 124 and may contact the base moving rail unit 1221. In one embodiment, the focus adjustment unit 125 may be adjusted in micrometers to adjust the distance between the focus support 124 and the base moving rail unit 1221.

[0203] A focal length elastic member 126 may be disposed on the focal length support 124. One end of the focal length elastic member 126 may be connected to the focal length support 124, and the other end may be connected to the base moving rail unit 1221. Tension can be generated in the focal length elastic member 126. Therefore, the base moving rail unit 1221 may contact (e.g., in close contact) the focal length fine-tuning unit 125.

[0204] Figure 19 This is a perspective view illustrating a first focal length changing body according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 20 This is a perspective view illustrating a second focal length changing body according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and Figure 21 This is a perspective view illustrating a focal length changing body on a cover base unit of an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0205] Figures 19 to 21 The focal length changing subject 123 is shown in the example. Figures 1 to 18 The focal length changing body 123 illustrated in the example is the same. Therefore, further description of the same parts can be omitted.

[0206] The focal length changing body 123 may include a first focal length changing body 123-1 and a second focal length changing body 123-2.

[0207] The thickness of the first focal length changing body 123-1 can be defined as a first thickness d1, and the thickness of the second focal length changing body 123-2 can be defined as a second thickness d2. In one embodiment, the first thickness d1 can be greater than the second thickness d2.

[0208] In one embodiment, the first thickness d1 of the first focal length replacement body 123-1 and the second thickness d2 of the second focal length replacement body 123-2 are formed differently, and the distance between the cover P and the laser generating unit 50 can vary when the first focal length replacement body 123-1 and the second focal length replacement body 123-2 are disposed on the base mounting unit 121.

[0209] In one embodiment, the focus replacement body 123 can be attached to and detached from the base moving unit 122, and the focus replacement body 123 with an appropriate thickness can be disposed on the base moving unit 122 according to the specifications of the secondary battery being manufactured. Therefore, instead of using fingertips to adjust the position of the base moving unit 122, the focus replacement body 123 with an appropriate thickness can be selectively disposed on the base moving unit 122. Thus, the connector T and the cover P will not be outside the focal length of the laser L, thereby reducing the welding defect rate. Furthermore, the time required to adjust the position of the base moving unit 122 can be reduced.

[0210] The number of welding defects in the terminals and caps can be reduced by using the apparatus for manufacturing secondary batteries according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0211] Furthermore, the defect rate of secondary batteries can be reduced by using the apparatus for manufacturing secondary batteries according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0212] Furthermore, the time required to manufacture secondary batteries can be reduced by using the apparatus for manufacturing secondary batteries according to embodiments of this disclosure.

[0213] However, the aspects and effects that can be obtained through this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand other technical aspects and effects not mentioned above through the above description of this disclosure.

[0214] While this disclosure has been described with reference to some embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, these embodiments are merely illustrative, and it should be understood that various modifications and equivalent other embodiments can be derived by those skilled in the art based on these embodiments.

Claims

1. An apparatus for manufacturing secondary batteries, the apparatus comprising: A cover conveyor includes a cover base member configured to receive a cover at a cover supply position to place the cover on the cover base member, and the cover base member is rotatable about a cover turntable axis to convey the cover to a cover welding position. A can conveyor is configured to move a can connected to a connecting piece toward the cap located at the cap welding position; A can retainer is configured to move between a can-separated position and a can-pressed position, wherein in the can-separated position the can retainer is spaced apart from the can, and in the can-pressed position the can retainer is in contact with the can, and the can is pressed in the direction in which the cap conveyor is arranged; A connector pusher is configured to move between a connector separation position and a connector pressing position, wherein in the connector separation position the connector pusher is spaced apart from the connector, and in the connector pressing position the connector pusher is in contact with the connector and the connector is pressed toward the cover; as well as A laser generator is configured to emit a laser beam toward the connector to weld the cover and the connector.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the tank retainer comprises: The can retainer body is configured to move between the can separated position and the can pressed position; A concave body for contacting the outer surface of the can; and The can connecting body connects the can retainer body to the can concave body and includes a retainer groove formed as a recess.

3. The device according to claim 2, wherein when the can holder body is located at the can pressing position, the can concave body of the can holder contacts the can, and When the can retainer body is located at the can separation position, the can concave body of the can retainer is spaced apart from the can.

4. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the tank holder is located on a fixed platform, and further comprises: A can retainer plate, wherein the can retainer body is connected to the can retainer plate; The can retainer plate protrudes from the can retainer plate; and A can retainer plate elastic member is connected to the can retainer plate protrusion. The can retainer plate elastic member is further connected to a fixed platform protrusion extending from the fixed platform and generates a pulling force to move the can retainer to the can pressing position.

5. The device of claim 4, wherein the tank retainer comprises: A can retainer driver, on the fixed platform, is used to move the can retainer plate to the can separation position.

6. The device of claim 1, wherein the connector pusher comprises: The connector pusher retainer body is configured to move between the connector separation position and the connector pressing position; as well as A connector pusher body, connected to the connector pusher retainer body, spaced apart from the connector at the connector separation position, and configured to press the connector toward the cover at the connector pressing position.

7. The device of claim 6, wherein the connector pusher further includes a connector pusher body hole, the connector pusher body hole being a hole passing through the connector pusher body, and The laser is configured to be emitted onto the connector through the connector pusher body hole located at the connector pressing position.

8. The device of claim 7, wherein the connector pusher body is rotatable relative to the connector pusher retainer body and movable between a connector welding position and a focus adjustment position spaced apart from the connector welding position, wherein the laser is configured to pass through a hole in the connector pusher body at the connector welding position.

9. The device of claim 8, wherein the terminal block actuator further comprises: The connector pusher retainer protrudes from the connector pusher retainer body; as well as The main groove of the connector pusher is formed in the body of the connector pusher. Specifically, the main body of the connector pusher is located at the welding position of the connector, and the main groove of the connector pusher is placed on the protrusion of the connector pusher retainer.

10. The device of claim 8, wherein the connector pusher further includes a connector pusher retainer latch on the connector pusher retainer body, and Since the connector pusher body is located at the connector welding position, the connector pusher retainer latch is in contact with the connector pusher body to restrict the movement of the connector pusher body.

11. The device of claim 8, wherein the connector pusher further comprises a connector pusher driver located on a fixed platform and configured to move the connector pusher retainer body between the connector separation position and the connector pressing position.

12. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the cover conveyor includes a cover turntable, the cover base member is located on the cover turntable, and the cover turntable is rotatable about the axis of the cover turntable and vertically movable between a cover raised position and a cover lowered position.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the cover conveyor further comprises: A platform hole passes through the cover turntable and is formed as an elongated hole; as well as A focusing and fixing component is inserted into the cover base component through the platform hole, and the cover base component, which can move relative to the cover turntable, is fixed.

14. The device of claim 12, wherein the cover turntable is configured to receive the cover at the cover lowered position, rise from the cover lowered position to the cover raised position and rotate, and fall from the cover raised position to the cover lowered position to weld the cover and the terminal block by the laser.

15. The device of claim 12, wherein the cover base member comprises a plurality of cover base members on the outer side of the cover turntable, and the plurality of cover base members are arranged at regular intervals.

16. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the cover base member is detachably attached to the cover turntable of the cover conveyor.

17. The device of claim 16, wherein the cover base member comprises: The base mounting component is fixed to the cover turntable; A base movable component is inserted into the base mounting component, and the distance between the base movable component and the axis of the cover turntable is adjustable; as well as The focal length replacement body is detachably attached to the base movable part.

18. The device of claim 17, wherein the cover is attached to the focal length changing body at the cover supply position and the cover is detached from the focal length changing body at the cover welding position.

19. The device of claim 17, wherein the base mount comprises a base mount rail extending in the radial direction of the axis of the cover turntable, and The base movable component includes: A base moving rail unit is mounted on the base mounting rail, and the distance between the base moving rail unit and the axis of the cover turntable is adjustable; as well as The base replacement rail is fixed to the base moving rail unit, and the focal length replacement body is located on the base replacement rail.

20. The device according to claim 19, wherein the focus changing body comprises: The replacement body slot is formed as a recess in the focal length replacement body and is configured to place the cover in the replacement body slot; as well as Replace the main vacuum connector, and replace the main body protrusion from the focal length.

Images