Gripper and method for manufacturing battery pack using same

Abstract

A gripper and a method of manufacturing a battery pack using the same are provided. A gripper according to an embodiment for transporting a battery cell stack assembly to a battery pack case, the battery cell stack assembly including a plurality of flat plate type battery cells stacked in a horizontal first direction and side beams coupled to one side and the other side of the plurality of flat plate type battery cells in the horizontal first direction, may include: a base including a plurality of flat plate type battery cells stacked in the horizontal first direction; the battery cell stack assembly is arranged above the battery cell stack assembly; an adsorption part provided on the lower side of the central region of the base to be adsorbed onto the battery cell stack assembly; and a lifting pin protruding below the base and coupled to a clamping hole formed in the side member in the vertical direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a clamp and a method for manufacturing a battery pack using the clamp. Specifically, this disclosure relates to a clamp for handling a battery cell stack assembly after removing the module frame used in a conventional battery module to improve the space utilization inside the battery pack housing and improve the manufacturing process efficiency of the battery pack, and a method for manufacturing a battery pack using the clamp. Background Technology

[0002] This disclosure relates to a clamp and a method for manufacturing a battery pack using the clamp. Specifically, this disclosure relates to a clamp for handling a battery cell stack assembly after removing the module frame used in a conventional battery module to improve the space utilization inside the battery pack housing and improve the manufacturing process efficiency of the battery pack, and a method for manufacturing a battery pack using the clamp. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Technical issues The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a process for mounting a battery cell stack assembly in a pressed state to a battery pack housing during the manufacturing process of a battery pack without the need for a module frame used in conventional battery modules, thereby improving the space utilization inside the battery pack housing and the energy density of the battery pack. Furthermore, it provides a clamp that improves the process efficiency of battery pack manufacturing and a method for manufacturing a battery pack using the clamp.

[0004] Technical solution According to one aspect, a gripper is provided configured to transport a battery cell stack assembly to a battery pack housing, the battery cell stack assembly including a plurality of flat battery cells stacked in a first horizontal direction and side beams coupled to one and the other side of the plurality of flat battery cells in the first horizontal direction, the gripper including: a base disposed above the battery cell stack assembly; an adsorption portion disposed below the base in a central region of the base and configured to adsorb the battery cell stack assembly; and a lifting pin protruding below the base and configured to engage with a gripping hole formed in the side beam in a vertical direction.

[0005] This can improve the space utilization rate inside the battery pack casing, increase the energy density of the battery pack, and improve the manufacturing efficiency of the battery pack.

[0006] The lifting pin can be configured to press the side beam toward multiple flat battery cells when it is inserted into the clamping hole.

[0007] The base may include a main body and operating parts disposed on one side and the other side of the main body in a horizontal first direction. The operating parts may be configured to move away from or towards the main body, and the lifting pin may protrude below the operating parts and be configured to move together with the operating parts.

[0008] The gripper may also include a drive unit fixed to the main body; and a pivot configured to connect the drive unit and the operating unit, and the operating unit may be configured to move by the operation of the drive unit.

[0009] The clamping hole can have a rounded quadrilateral shape, and the lifting pin can also have a rounded quadrilateral shape to correspond to the shape of the clamping hole.

[0010] For each of the side beams on one and the other side in the first horizontal direction that are combined with multiple flat battery cells, the lifting pins can be arranged along a second horizontal direction that intersects the first horizontal direction.

[0011] The lifting pins arranged in the second horizontal direction on one side beam of the multiple flat battery cells in the first horizontal direction and the lifting pins arranged in the second horizontal direction on the other side beam of the multiple flat battery cells in the first horizontal direction can be set in corresponding numbers.

[0012] The lifting pins arranged in the second horizontal direction may include a first pin and a second pin with a length relatively shorter than that of the first pin.

[0013] The first pin and the second pin can be alternately set in the second horizontal direction.

[0014] The lifting pins arranged in the second horizontal direction on the side beams of one side of the multiple flat battery cells in the first horizontal direction and the lifting pins arranged in the second horizontal direction on the side beams of the other side of the multiple flat battery cells in the first horizontal direction can be configured such that the lifting pins are respectively set at positions facing each other in the first horizontal direction. One of the lifting pins facing each other in the first horizontal direction can be a first pin and the other can be a second pin.

[0015] The adsorption part may include a pad made of elastic material.

[0016] The adsorption section can be made of a large-area foam material.

[0017] The adsorption section can have multiple adsorption pores.

[0018] According to another aspect, a method for manufacturing a battery pack is also provided. This method manufactures a battery pack by assembling a battery cell stack assembly into a battery pack housing using a clamp. The clamp includes a base and a lifting pin protruding below the base. The battery cell stack assembly includes a plurality of flat battery cells stacked in a first horizontal direction and side beams coupled to one and the other side of the plurality of flat battery cells in the first horizontal direction. The side beams include: a flat plate portion; and a mounting portion protruding from the plate portion in a direction opposite to the plurality of flat battery cells. The method for manufacturing the battery pack includes: inserting the lifting pin into a clamping hole formed in the mounting portion in a vertical direction, wherein the mounting portion is coupled to one and the other side of the plurality of flat battery cells in the first horizontal direction; pressing the side beams toward the plurality of flat battery cells by moving the lifting pin toward the plurality of flat battery cells, and adsorbing the upper surface of the battery cell stack assembly using an adsorption portion provided in the clamp; placing the battery cell stack assembly into the interior of the battery pack housing by moving the battery cell stack assembly clamped by the clamp; and separating the clamp from the battery cell stack assembly.

[0019] The battery pack housing may include: a base plate portion; and a connecting portion, the connecting portion protruding above the base plate portion, and the connecting portion being positioned below the mounting portion when the battery cell stack assembly is disposed in the battery pack housing. The lifting pin may include a first pin, the first pin being configured to have a length having a lower end that protrudes further downward than the lower part of the mounting portion when the clamp holds the battery cell stack assembly, and the connecting portion forming a groove capable of accommodating the first pin that protrudes further downward than the lower part of the mounting portion when the battery cell stack assembly is clamped by the clamp and disposed in the battery pack housing.

[0020] The joint can be disposed between two battery cell stack assemblies arranged adjacent to each other in the first horizontal direction in the battery pack housing, and the grooves formed corresponding to each of the two battery cell stack assemblies can be formed at positions that do not overlap with each other in the first horizontal direction.

[0021] The battery pack housing may include a guide pin protruding upward from the bottom plate portion of the battery pack housing, the lower portion of the side beam may be formed in a guide hole for the guide pin to be inserted, and the battery cell stack assembly may be configured such that the guide pin is inserted into the guide hole when the battery cell stack assembly is moved to be disposed inside the battery pack housing.

[0022] The step of pressing the side beams toward multiple flat battery cells using lifting pins can be performed before the step of adsorbing the upper surface of the battery cell stack assembly using the adsorption part provided on the clamp.

[0023] The method may also include, after separating the clamp from the battery cell stack assembly, attaching the connecting member to the joint of the battery pack housing by passing the connecting member through a mounting hole formed vertically in the mounting portion.

[0024] Technical effect According to an exemplary embodiment, the space utilization rate inside the battery pack casing can be improved, the energy density of the battery pack can be increased, and the manufacturing process efficiency of the battery pack can be improved. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Figure 1 This is a schematic exploded perspective view showing the internal structure of a battery pack according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 2 This is a front view of a battery cell stack assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing a portion of a battery cell stack assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 4 This is a top view showing a portion of a battery cell stack assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 5 This is a side view showing a portion of a battery cell stack assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 6 This is a perspective view illustrating the process of attaching a side beam to a pressing unit according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 7 This is a side view showing the state in which a side beam is attached to a battery cell stack assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 8 This is a top view showing the state in which a first clamp holds a side beam of a battery cell stack assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 9 This is a perspective view showing the state in which a first clamp holds a side beam of a battery cell stack assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 10 This is a top view showing the state in which a first clamp holds a side beam of a battery cell stack assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 11This is a perspective view showing the state of a battery cell stack assembly placed on a pressing unit according to an exemplary embodiment, and showing a second clamping device close to the battery cell stack assembly.

[0036] Figure 12 The front surface of a second gripper according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0037] Figure 13 A side of the second clamp is shown according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 14 Another side of the second clamp is shown according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 15 A second clamp is shown as viewed from above according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] Figure 16 A portion of a second clamp according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure is shown, viewed from below.

[0041] Figure 17 The image shows the state in which a second clamp, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, clamps a battery cell stack assembly, as viewed from the front.

[0042] Figure 18 The image shows a second clamp holding a battery cell stack assembly, as viewed from the side, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 19 A portion of a battery cell stack assembly held by a second clamp is shown according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] Figure 20 The battery pack housing of a battery pack according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown from above.

[0045] Figure 21 An enlarged view of a portion of a battery pack according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0046] Figure 22 A portion of the battery pack housing and a portion of the side beam of a battery pack according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure are shown.

[0047] Figure 23 This is a flowchart of a method for manufacturing a battery pack according to various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0048] Prior to the description of this disclosure, the terms or words used in this disclosure and the appended claims are not limited to their general or dictionary definitions. The terms and words should be interpreted in accordance with the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concepts of the terms in order to best describe his invention. Therefore, since the exemplary embodiments described in this disclosure and the configurations shown in the drawings are merely the most desirable exemplary embodiments and do not represent all the technical spirit of this disclosure, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications that can replace the exemplary embodiments and configurations may exist at the time of filing this application.

[0049] The same reference numerals or symbols shown in the accompanying drawings indicate parts or elements that perform substantially the same function. For ease of description and understanding, the same reference numerals or symbols may be used to describe different exemplary embodiments. In other words, although multiple drawings show elements with the same reference numerals, the multiple drawings do not imply that there is only one exemplary embodiment.

[0050] In the following description, unless there is an obvious and contextual conflict, singular terms include plural terms. For example, terms such as "comprising" or "including" are used to indicate the presence of features, quantities, operations, actions, elements, components, or combinations thereof. It should be understood that these terms do not preclude the possibility that one or more other features, numbers, operations, actions, elements, components, or combinations thereof may be present or added.

[0051] Additionally, it should be noted in advance that descriptions such as upper side, upper part, lower side, lower side, side surface, front surface, or rear surface are based on the orientation shown in the accompanying drawings, and that the description may change when the orientation of the corresponding object changes.

[0052] Terms including ordinal numbers such as "first" or "second" as used in this specification and claims may be used to distinguish elements. Such ordinal numbers are used to distinguish elements that are the same or similar to each other in context. The meaning of the terms may not be limited by the use of the ordinal numbers. For example, the order of use, order of disposal, etc., of elements having such ordinal numbers may not be interpreted as limited by the ordinal number. Ordinal numbers may be interchanged as needed.

[0053] In the following description, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the concept of the present disclosure is not limited to the exemplary embodiments presented. For example, those skilled in the art who understand the concept of the present disclosure may propose another exemplary embodiment within the scope of the concept of the present disclosure by adding, changing, or removing elements. However, other exemplary embodiments are also included within the scope of the concept of the present disclosure. For clarity, the shapes, sizes, etc., of the elements in the drawings may be enlarged.

[0054] Figure 1This is a schematic exploded perspective view showing the internal structure of a battery pack according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 This is a front view of a battery cell stack assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figures 3 to 5 These are perspective, top, and side views showing a portion of a battery cell stack assembly according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0055] In this disclosure, the second horizontal direction y can be defined as the direction intersecting the first horizontal direction x. For example, the second horizontal direction y can be a direction perpendicular to the first horizontal direction x.

[0056] In the following text and in the accompanying drawings, the first horizontal direction x can be the x-axis direction, and the second horizontal direction y can be the y-axis direction.

[0057] The battery pack 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may include a housing 11 and a battery cell stack assembly 100, but may be implemented without any of the above-described elements, and other elements are not excluded.

[0058] Reference Figure 1 The battery pack 10 may include a housing 11. The battery cell stack assembly 100 may be mounted to the battery pack housing 11. The battery pack housing 11 may include a joint 12, a base plate 13, and guide pins (e.g., Figure 20 and Figure 21 Guide pin 14), connecting hole (e.g., Figure 22 The connecting hole 15) and the groove (e.g., Figure 22 At least one of the grooves 16).

[0059] The joint 12 may protrude above the bottom plate 13. The joint 12 may extend in the second horizontal direction y. For example, when the battery cell stack assembly 100 is disposed on the battery pack housing 11, the joint 12 may be disposed at the mounting portion of the side beam 130 (e.g., Figure 3 Below the mounting portion 133. The connecting portion 12 may be provided at least between two battery cell stack assemblies arranged adjacent to each other in the horizontal first direction x within the battery pack housing 11.

[0060] The following will refer to Figure 20 and Figure 21 The specific structure of the battery pack housing 11 is also described.

[0061] The battery pack 10 may include a battery cell stack assembly 100. The battery cell stack assembly 100 may include a plurality of flat battery cells 110, a busbar frame assembly 120 and a side beam 130, but may be implemented without some of the above components, and other elements are not excluded.

[0062] Reference Figures 1 to 5 The battery cell stack assembly 100 may include a plurality of planar battery cells 110. The plurality of planar battery cells 110 may be stacked in a horizontal first direction x.

[0063] The battery cell stack assembly 100 may include a busbar frame assembly 120. The busbar frame assembly 120 may be coupled to one and the other side of a plurality of planar battery cells 110 in a second horizontal direction y. For example, a lead (not shown) extending from the battery cell 110 in the second horizontal direction y may be bent and connected to the busbar frame assembly 120 after passing through it.

[0064] Return to reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 The busbar frame assembly 120 may include a pin 121. The pin 121 may protrude from one side and the other side of the busbar frame assembly 120 in a horizontal first direction. The pin 121 can be understood as protruding in a direction toward the side beam 130. The pin 121 can be inserted into the side beam 130. Figure 5 In hole 131. Pin 121 can guide the side beam 130 to the accurate engagement position.

[0065] Pin 121 may include a rounded end shape. Alternatively, pin 121 may include a portion whose cross-section becomes smaller in the direction away from busbar frame assembly 120. For example, the end of pin 121 may be formed as tapered or hemispherical. Thus, during the attachment of side beam 130 to the plurality of flat battery cells 110, although the position of side beam 130 is not precisely adjusted, pin 121 of busbar frame assembly 120 can be easily inserted into hole 131 of side beam 130.

[0066] The battery cell stack assembly 100 may include side beams 130. Side beams 130 may be incorporated into one and the other side of a plurality of planar battery cells 110 in a first horizontal direction x. Side beams 130 may replace at least a portion of the functionality of an existing modular frame (e.g., a metal frame) surrounding the battery cell and the beam structure of an existing battery pack housing.

[0067] Specifically, see the description below. Figure 1 and Figure 3 as well as Figure 22The battery cell stack assembly 100 (e.g., the side beam 130 of the battery cell stack assembly 100) can be fixed and coupled to the battery pack housing 11 by a coupling member 140 while it is disposed in the battery pack housing 11. For example, the coupling member 140 can be fixed to a coupling portion 12 (e.g., a coupling hole 15 formed in the coupling portion 12), which is formed in the bottom plate portion 13 of the battery pack housing 11 through a mounting hole 134 passing through the side beam 130. With this structure, multiple battery cell stack assemblies 100 can be prevented from being spaced apart in the horizontal first direction x. At this time, the side beam 130 can be in the vertical direction (e.g., perpendicular to the x-axis). Figure 1 The side beam 130 is fixed to the joint 12 in a state where it partially overlaps with the joint 12 of the battery pack housing 11 in both the x-axis and y-axis directions. This joint structure minimizes the space required for the connection between the side beam 130 and the joint 12. Furthermore, by ensuring that the side beam 130 is positioned between two adjacent battery cell stack assemblies 100 arranged along the first horizontal direction x, without wasting space in the x-axis direction, the space utilization within the battery pack housing 11 can be improved. This results in benefits in terms of energy density within the battery pack.

[0068] Also, refer to the following description. Figure 7 The side beam 130 can be fixed to a plurality of flat battery cells 110 by adhesive A. For example, adhesive A can be applied to a surface of the side beam 130 facing the plurality of flat battery cells 110 before the side beam 130 is bonded to the plurality of flat battery cells 110. However, adhesive A is not limited to such exemplary embodiments, and can be applied to the surfaces of the plurality of flat battery cells 110 facing the side beam 130 before the side beam 130 is bonded to the plurality of flat battery cells 110.

[0069] In contrast, the side beam 130 can be coupled to multiple flat battery cells 110 by an additional mechanical mechanism. For example, additional coupling members (e.g., bolts) can be fixed and coupled to the busbar frame assembly 120 by passing through the side beam 130, thereby allowing the side beam 130 to be attached to multiple flat battery cells 110.

[0070] Reference Figures 3 to 5 The pins 121 of the busbar frame assembly 120 can be inserted into holes 131 formed in the side beam 130. Holes 131 can be formed in the plate portion 132 of the side beam 130. For example, when the side beam 130 is attached to multiple flat battery cells 110, the pins 121 of the busbar frame assembly 120 can be inserted into the holes 131 of the side beam 130, thereby guiding the side beam 130 to the accurate engagement position. Figure 5The diagram shows that two holes 131 into which pins 121 of the busbar frame assembly 120 can be inserted are formed as vertically spaced apart from each other on one side of the side beam 130. However, the various exemplary embodiments of this disclosure are not limited to the number of holes and such a structure, and only one hole 131 may be formed on one side of the side beam 130, or more than three holes 131 may be formed thereon.

[0071] Meanwhile, the side beam 130 may include a plate portion 132. The plate portion 132 may be planar. The plate portion 132 may have an area for fully covering the electrode receiving portion (i.e., the portion that houses the electrode assembly) of each individual flat battery cell 110. The plate portion 132 may be configured to cover the size and shape of both the flat battery cell 110 and the busbar frame assembly 120 in the x-axis direction. The plate portion 132 may be a portion that directly presses inwards the plurality of flat battery cells 110. Alternatively, the plate portion 132 may also be a portion that is adsorbed by the air adsorption portion 230 formed in the pressing unit 200, which will be described later.

[0072] The side beam 130 may include a mounting portion 133. The mounting portion 133 may protrude toward the side of the plate portion 132 opposite to the plurality of flat battery cells 110 (i.e., in the outward direction).

[0073] Reference Figure 3 The mounting portion 133 can extend horizontally. Specifically, the mounting portion 133 can extend in the second horizontal direction y. As a result, since the mounting portion 133 can be used as a beam for the plate portion 132, the structural rigidity of the side beam 130 can be improved.

[0074] Furthermore, as described below, even when mounting holes 134 and / or clamping holes 137 are formed in the mounting portion 133, the various components inserted into the aforementioned holes 134 and 137 (e.g., connecting component 140, clamping pin 320 (see below)) can be distributed. Figure 9 ), lifting pin 430 (see Figure 12 The stress caused by stress concentration can prevent damage or deformation of the side beam 130 due to stress concentration.

[0075] The mounting portion 133 may be formed on the upper part of the plate portion 132. For example, the mounting portion 133 may be formed at a position in the plate portion 132 that is higher than half the height of the plate portion 132. Specifically, when referring together... Figure 6 and Figure 7 In making the description, in order to make the pressing unit 200 (see below) which will be described below Figure 6 and Figure 7 The pressing part 210 (see) Figure 6 and Figure 7For effective pressing of the side beam 130, it is preferable to press the vertical middle portion of the plate portion 132. Therefore, the upper boundary of the pressing portion 210 can be located above the vertical middle portion of the plate portion 132. Therefore, in order for the pressing portion 210 to effectively press the plate portion 132 without interfering with the mounting portion 133, it is preferable that the lower boundary of the mounting portion 133 is located above the upper boundary of the pressing portion 210.

[0076] Mounting holes 134 can be formed in mounting portions 133. Mounting holes 134 can be formed to penetrate in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which mounting portions 133 protrude from plate portions 132 (i.e., in the vertical direction). Multiple mounting holes 134 can be formed. The multiple mounting holes 134 can be spaced apart from each other and arranged in a horizontal second direction y. When the battery cell stack assembly 100 is coupled to the battery pack housing 11, the coupling member 140 can pass through the mounting holes 134 to engage with coupling holes 15 (e.g., in the coupling portion 12 formed in the battery pack housing 11). Figure 22 (As shown).

[0077] Simultaneously, the side beam 130 may include a cover portion 135. The cover portion 135 may be formed above the mounting portion 133. Specifically, the cover portion 135 may have a structure including at least an upper surface extending from the side of the plate portion 132 opposite to the plurality of flat battery cells 110 (i.e., facing outward) and a side surface extending from the edge of the upper surface and connecting to the upper surface of the mounting portion 133. The cover portion 135 may improve the structural rigidity of the side beam 130 including the mounting portion 133 and the plate portion 132 by forming a bent plate structure that reinforces the upper surface of the mounting portion 133.

[0078] An opening 136 may be formed in the cover 135 at a position corresponding to the mounting hole 134. For example, the opening 136 may be formed at a position that overlaps with the mounting hole 134 in the vertical direction. Through the opening 136, the connecting member 140 that fixes the side beam 130 to the joint of the battery pack housing 11 can be inserted into the mounting portion 133 without interfering with the cover 135.

[0079] The opening 136 may have a structure that allows the upper surface and side surfaces of the cover 135 to open together. With this structure, during the process of attaching the connecting member 140 to the mounting hole 134 and the connecting portion 12 after the battery cell stack assembly 100 is placed in the battery pack housing 11, the connecting tool (not shown) for attaching the connecting member 140 can be easily accessed.

[0080] Return to reference Figure 3 and Figure 4The side beam 130 may include a clamping hole 137. The clamping hole 137 may be formed in the side beam 130 in the vertical direction. Specifically, the clamping hole 137 may be formed to pass through the upper surface of the cover portion 135. Alternatively, the clamping hole 137 may be formed to vertically penetrate the mounting portion 133. The clamping hole 137 formed to penetrate the upper surface of the cover portion 135 and the clamping hole 137 formed to penetrate the mounting portion 133 may be formed at a position where they overlap each other in the vertical direction. In the following, the clamping hole 137 of the cover portion 135 and the clamping hole 137 of the mounting portion 133 that are to be formed to overlap each other in the vertical direction can be understood as a single clamping hole 137. However, the clamping hole 137 is not limited to such exemplary embodiments and may be formed only through the upper surface of the cover portion 135, and in another exemplary embodiment, it may not be formed in a penetrating manner in the mounting portion 133.

[0081] Simultaneously, a plurality of clamping holes 137 can be formed. The plurality of clamping holes 137 can be spaced apart from each other and arranged at predetermined intervals in the horizontal second direction y. In an exemplary embodiment, the first clamp 300 (such as...) Figure 9 Clamping pin 320 (as shown) Figure 9 (As shown) can be inserted into the clamping hole 137. Additionally, the second clamp 400 (as shown) Figure 12 The lifting pin 430 (as shown) Figure 12 (As shown) can be inserted into the clamping hole 137.

[0082] The clamping hole 137 may have its vertex (or corner) portion formed as a rounded quadrilateral. For example, the clamping hole 137 may have a rounded shape. The clamping hole 137 may be connected to the first clamp 300 (e.g., Figure 9 The clamping pin 320 (as shown) has a rounded cross-section. Figure 9 (as shown) and / or the second clamp 400 (as shown) Figure 12 The lifting pin 430 (as shown) has a rounded cross-section. Figure 12 The shape corresponds to that of the clamping pin 320 (as shown), but the clamping hole 137 can be formed to be larger than that of the clamping pin 320 (as shown). Figure 9 (as shown) and lifting pin 430 (as shown) Figure 12 The dimensions of each cross section shown are larger than the predetermined ratio of the dimensions.

[0083] When the clamping hole 137 is formed into a quadrilateral shape with rounded corners at the apex (or corners), the clamping pin 320 (such as...) Figure 9 (as shown) and / or lifting pin 430 (as shown) Figure 12 As shown, the side beam 130 is steadily pressed against the surface. This will be referred to below. Figure 10 and Figure 19 Provide a detailed description.

[0084] Simultaneously, the side of the clamping hole 137 facing the plurality of flat battery cells 110 can be flush with the surface of the plate portion 132 opposite to the plurality of battery cells 110 in the vertical direction. In other words, at least a portion of the inner side of the clamping hole 137 can be located on the same plane as the surface of the plate portion 132. Thus, a predetermined component (e.g., a second clamp 400) inserted into the clamping hole 137 can be positioned on the same plane. Figure 12 The lifting pin 430 (as shown) Figure 12 As shown), during the process of pressing the side beam 130 toward multiple flat battery cells 110, the pressing component (e.g., as shown) Figure 12 The lifting pin 430 and the side beam 130 shown can be in surface contact with each other, so that pressing can be performed effectively.

[0085] Figure 6 This is a perspective view illustrating the process of attaching a side beam to a pressing unit according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7 This is a side view showing the state in which a side beam is attached to a battery cell stack assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figures 8 to 10 The diagram illustrates the state in which a first clamp holds a side beam of a battery cell stack assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0086] Reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the side beam 130 of the battery cell stack assembly 100 can be coupled to a plurality of flat battery cells 110 via a pressing unit 200. Furthermore, the pressing unit 200 can press the battery cell stack assembly 100 until the length of the battery cell stack assembly 100 in the horizontal first direction x reaches a desired value and can maintain the pressed state.

[0087] The pressing unit 200 may include a tray 220. Multiple flat battery cells 110 may be placed on the tray 220.

[0088] The pressing unit 200 may include a pressing part 210. (See reference...) Figure 6 The pressing part 210 may have a structure in which multiple block-shaped units are arranged in the second horizontal direction y. The pressing part 210 may be attached to a planar structure extending in the vertical direction and may be formed to protrude toward multiple flat battery cells 110. However, the pressing part 210 is not limited to this and may be configured as a single structure in which one of the block-shaped units extends in the second horizontal direction y.

[0089] Simultaneously, two pressing portions 210 (e.g., planar structures and block-shaped units formed protruding therefrom) can be provided. The two pressing portions 210 can be individually provided on one side and the other side of the plurality of flat battery cells 110 provided on the tray 220 in the first horizontal direction x. The two pressing portions 210 can be configured to face each other and move in the direction facing each other. For example, the two pressing portions 210 can be configured to face each other in the first horizontal direction x and move towards or away from each other.

[0090] In the manufacturing process of the battery cell stack assembly 100, when the side beam 130 is supplied to the pressing unit 200, the side beam 130 can be configured such that the lower region of the mounting portion 133 of the plate portion 132 is attached to the surface of the pressing portion 210 facing the plurality of flat battery cells 110, and the lower surface of the mounting portion 133 is placed on the upper surface of the pressing portion 210.

[0091] The side beam 130 can be attached to a plurality of flat battery cells 110 via the operation of two pressing portions 210. Specifically, with the two pressing portions 210 in a state of being far apart from each other, after the side beam 130 is disposed on the respective surfaces of the two pressing portions 210 facing each other, the two pressing portions 210 can move in a direction toward each other, that is, toward the plurality of flat battery cells 110. The side beam 130 can be attached to one side and the other side of the plurality of flat battery cells 110 in the first horizontal direction x. The attachment of the side beam 130 to the plurality of flat battery cells 110 can be performed by adhesive A.

[0092] Two pressing parts 210 can press the side beams 130 toward the multiple flat battery cells 110. Specifically, the battery cell stack assembly 100 can be pressed by the operation of the two pressing parts 210 until the length of the battery cell stack assembly 100 in the horizontal first direction x reaches the desired extent. At this time, the desired extent of the length of the battery cell stack assembly 100 in the horizontal first direction x can be such that the battery cell stack assembly 100 is positioned in the battery pack housing 11 (e.g., Figure 1 (as shown) and to integrate the side beam 130 into the battery pack housing 11 (as shown) Figure 1 The joint 12 (as shown) Figure 1 The length (as shown). For example, refer to... Figure 4 Before being pressed, the length of the flat battery cell 110 in the first horizontal direction x can be greater than the length of the busbar frame assembly 120 in the first horizontal direction x excluding the pin 121. The multiple flat battery cells 110 can be pressed by the pressing part 210 until the length of the flat battery cell 110 in the first horizontal direction x corresponds to the length of the busbar frame assembly 120 in the first horizontal direction x excluding the pin 121.

[0093] Reference Figure 7 The pressing part 210 can be configured to overlap with the vertical middle region of the side beam 130 in the horizontal direction. With this structure, since the pressing part 210 can press the vertical middle region of the side beam 130, the pressing part 210 can effectively press the side beam 130.

[0094] The upper boundary of the pressing part 210 can be located below the lower boundary of the mounting part 133 of the side beam 130. Thus, when in contact with the surface of the plate part 132 formed below the mounting part 133 of the side beam 130, the pressing part 210 can press the side beam 130 toward the plurality of flat battery cells 110 at a position below the mounting part 133 without interfering with the mounting part 133.

[0095] Reference Figure 6 The pressing unit 200 may include an air adsorption section 230. The air adsorption section 230 may be disposed on the pressing unit 210. The air adsorption section 230 may be disposed on the surface of the pressing unit 210 facing the side beam 130. When the side beam 130 is supplied to the pressing unit 200, the side beam 130 may be held attached to the pressing unit 210 by the operation of the air adsorption section 230.

[0096] Reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 The pressing unit 200 may include a protruding pin 240. The protruding pin 240 may protrude upward from the upper surface of the pressing portion 210. When the side beam 130 is supplied to the pressing unit 200, the protruding pin 240 may be positioned at a location that overlaps vertically with the mounting portion 133 of the side beam 130. The protruding pin 240 may be inserted into a temporary fixing hole (not shown), a mounting hole 134, or a clamping hole 137 formed on the lower surface of the mounting portion 133 of the side beam 130. The protruding pin 240 may be guided to the position for supplying the side beam 130.

[0097] The protruding pin 240 is movable in the vertical direction. Specifically, the protruding pin 240 can move downwards and enter the pressing part 210. After the side beam 130 supplies the pressing unit 200 and the pressing part 210 presses the battery cell stack assembly 100, the protruding pin 240 can protrude above the pressing part 210 until the second clamp 400 (e.g., Figure 12 (As shown) The battery cell stack assembly 100 is clamped, and then, before releasing the pressure of the pressing part 210, the protruding pin 240 can descend so that it does not protrude from the pressing part 210. Regarding this operation of the protruding pin 240, when the pressure is released, the pressing part 210 can move away from the battery cell stack assembly 100. At this time, the protruding pin 240 can descend and enter into the pressing part 210, so that the operation of the pressing part 210 does not interfere with the side beam 130.

[0098] Reference Figure 8 and Figure 9 The side beam 130 can be held and supplied to the pressing unit 200 by the articulated robot R1. The side beam 130 can be rotated at various angles by the articulated robot R1.

[0099] The articulated robot R1 may include a first gripper 300. The first gripper 300 may be disposed at the end of the articulated robot R1. The side beam 130 may be gripped by the first gripper 300 and disposed on the pressing unit 200.

[0100] The first gripper 300 may include a base 310. The base 310 may be a portion connected to the arm of the articulated robot R1. In an exemplary embodiment, a drive unit (not shown) for driving the gripping pin 320 may be housed in the base 310. Alternatively, the gripping pin 320 may be positioned in another location, such as the arm of the articulated robot R1. Furthermore, its position may be manually adjusted by a worker without the need for control by a separate drive unit.

[0101] The first clamp 300 may include a clamping pin 320. The clamping pin 320 may protrude downward from the base 310. When the clamping pin 320 is inserted into the mounting hole 134 formed in the side beam 130, the side beam 130 may be clamped by the first clamp 300.

[0102] Multiple clamping pins 320 can be provided. The multiple clamping pins 320 can be spaced apart from each other and arranged at predetermined intervals in the second horizontal direction y. When each clamping pin 320 moves in the second horizontal direction y, the position of each clamping pin 320 can be adjusted so that each clamping pin 320 can be fixed to the first clamp 300.

[0103] For example, refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 At least two of the plurality of clamping pins 320 can move toward or away from each other. After being inserted into the mounting hole 134, the two clamping pins 320 can move closer to or further away from each other, and thereby the side beam 130 can be clamped by the first clamp 300. For example, when two of the plurality of clamping pins 320 become closer to each other after being inserted into the mounting hole 134, it can be understood that the side beam 130 is clamped by the clamp 300 when secured by the two clamping pins 320. To effectively achieve this clamping scheme, an even number of clamping pins 320 can be provided such that two adjacent clamping pins 320 form a pair, and a pair of clamping pins 320 can move closer to or further away from each other.

[0104] Reference Figure 9The clamping pin 320 can be cylindrical, extending in the vertical direction. The horizontal cross-section of the clamping pin 320 can be a quadrilateral with rounded apex (or corner) portions. That is, the horizontal cross-section of the clamping pin 320 can have rounded apex (or corner) portions. The shape of the horizontal cross-section of the clamping pin 320 can correspond to the shape of the clamping hole 137 of the side beam 130. The size of the horizontal cross-section of the clamping pin 320 can be set smaller than the size of the clamping hole 137 of the side beam 130. Because the horizontal cross-sections of the clamping pin 320 and the clamping hole 137 are set to quadrilateral shapes, when the clamping pin 320 is inserted into the clamping hole 137 to move in the second horizontal direction y, the first clamp 300 can stably clamp the side beam 130 because the clamping pin 320 and the clamping hole 137 can be in linear contact with each other. Furthermore, because the apex (or corner) portion of the horizontal cross-section of the clamping pin 320 and the shape of the clamping hole 137 are rounded, although the clamping pin 320 is not perfectly inserted into the center of the clamping hole 137, stable clamping of the clamping pin 320 can be achieved because, when the clamping pin 320 moves in the second horizontal direction y, it can slide along the rounded portion of the clamping hole 137 to align with the central region of the clamping hole 137 in the first horizontal direction x. In addition, because the apex (or corner) portion of the horizontal cross-section of the clamping pin 320 and the shape of the clamping hole 137 are rounded, although the clamping pin 320 is inserted into the clamping hole 137 at a slight inclination, deformation or damage to the side beam 130 due to stress concentration at the corners of the clamping pin 320 can be prevented. However, the shape of the cross-section of the clamping pin 320 is not limited to this and can be circular or elliptical, or it can be a quadrilateral whose apex (or corner) portion is not rounded.

[0105] Figure 11 This shows the state in which the battery cell stack assembly is pressed by the pressing unit 200 according to an exemplary embodiment, and also shows a perspective view of the second clamping device approaching the battery cell stack assembly.

[0106] Reference Figure 11 The process of the second clamp 400 approaching and clamping the battery cell stack assembly 100 being pressed by the pressing unit 200 is illustrated schematically.

[0107] The second gripper 400 can be disposed at the end of the articulated robot R2. The battery cell stack assembly 100 held by the second gripper 400 can be transported by the articulated robot R2 through various paths and angles. Here, the articulated robot R2 can be coupled with the first gripper 300 (e.g., ...). Figure 9 (As shown) It is connected to the same articulated robot R1, or it can be set separately.

[0108] While being pressed by the pressing unit 200, the battery cell stack assembly 100 can be transported to the battery pack housing 11 after being clamped by the second clamp 400 (e.g., ...). Figure 1 (As shown). In the following text, the second gripper 400 may be a gripper for transporting the battery cell stack assembly 100 to the battery pack housing 11.

[0109] Specifically, when the battery cell stack assembly 100 is pressed by the pressing unit 200, a lifting pin 430 protruding downward from the base 410 of the second clamp 400 can be inserted into a clamping hole 137 of a side beam 130 on each of the two sides of the battery cell stack assembly 100 in the first horizontal direction x. The lifting pin 430 can press the side beam 130 inward by moving it in the direction from the side beam 130 toward the plurality of flat battery cells 110 while it is inserted into the clamping hole 137.

[0110] With the lifting pin 430 inserted into the clamping hole 137 of the side beam 130, the upper surface of the battery cell stack assembly 100 can be attracted by the adsorption part 420 of the second clamp 400. This allows the battery cell stack assembly 100 to be raised or lowered. As the battery cell stack assembly 100 is raised or lowered, the two pressing parts 210 move away from each other, releasing the pressure. At this time, because the lifting pin 430 presses inward against the side beam 130, the state of pressing the battery cell stack assembly 100 can be continuously maintained.

[0111] The battery cell stack assembly 100, which is lifted and lowered by the second clamp 400, can be transported to the battery pack housing 11 while being pressed down (e.g., ...). Figure 1 (as shown) and installed into the battery pack housing 11 (as shown) Figure 1 (As shown).

[0112] In the following text, reference will be made to Figures 12 to 19 Describe the specific structure of the second gripper 400.

[0113] Figure 12 The front surface of a second gripper according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 13 A side of the second clamp is shown according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 14 Another side of the second clamp is shown according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 15 A second clamp is shown as viewed from above according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 16 A portion of a second clamp according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure is shown, viewed from below. Figure 17 The image shows the state in which a second clamp, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, clamps a battery cell stack assembly, as viewed from the front. Figure 18The image shows a second clamp holding a battery cell stack assembly, as viewed from the side, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 19 A portion of a battery cell stack assembly held by a second clamp is shown according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0114] Reference Figures 12 to 19 The second gripper 400 may include a base 410. When the second gripper 400 is holding the battery cell stack assembly 100, the base 410 may be positioned above the battery cell stack assembly 100.

[0115] The base 410 may include a main body 411. The main body 411 may be formed in the central region of the base 410. The main body 411 may be a portion connected to the arm of the articulated robot R. The main body 411 may be a portion whose position relative to the battery cell stack assembly 100 is fixed during the process of attaching the second gripper 400 to the battery cell stack assembly 100.

[0116] The base 410 may include an operation unit 412. The operation unit 412 may be disposed on one side and the other side of the main body 411 in the horizontal first direction x. (See reference...) Figure 12 The operating unit 412 can be located on the left and right sides of the main body 411. The operating unit 412 can move away from or closer to the main body 411.

[0117] The second holder 400 may include an adsorption portion 420. The adsorption portion 420 may be disposed below the base 410 in the central region of the base 410. For example, the adsorption portion 420 may be disposed below the main body 411. The adsorption portion 420 may be tightly attached to the upper surface of the battery cell stack assembly 100.

[0118] The adsorption unit 420 can adsorb the battery cell stack assembly 100. The adsorption unit 420 can adsorb the upper surface of the battery cell stack assembly 100 by air adsorption to prevent the battery cells 110 from falling in the direction of gravity when the battery cell stack assembly 100 is transferred. Therefore, the battery cell stack assembly 100 can be transported stably, and it has a structure that omits the conventional modular frame that covers the upper and lower surfaces of the battery cells 110.

[0119] Reference Figure 16The adsorption portion 420 can be configured as a pad. The upper surface of the battery cell stack assembly 100 to which the adsorption portion 420 is tightly attached can be configured as an approximately planar shape. In order to provide adsorption force to the battery cell stack assembly 100, it is preferable that the adsorption portion 420 is configured as a type of pad corresponding to the upper surface of the battery cell stack assembly 100. However, the adsorption portion 420 is not limited to this and can be configured in various forms, as long as the adsorption portion 420 can provide sufficient adsorption force to the battery cell stack assembly 100.

[0120] The adsorption portion 420 can be configured as a pad made of an elastic material. For example, the adsorption portion 420 can be made of a sponge material and can be configured to be formed of a large-area foam-type material to achieve sealing when its shape changes according to the shape of the surface to be adsorbed. Specifically, the upper surface of the battery cell stack assembly 100 can be configured as a generally irregular, uneven surface. Therefore, in order to effectively attach the adsorption portion 420 to the irregular upper surface of the battery cell stack assembly 100, it is preferable that the adsorption portion 420 be configured as a deformable pad.

[0121] Multiple adsorption pores 421 may be formed in the adsorption section 420. For example, such as Figure 16 As shown, the plurality of adsorption pores 421 can be formed in a grid-like array in the adsorption section 420. However, the plurality of adsorption pores 421 are not limited to this and can be in various arrays. When a plurality of adsorption pores 421 are provided, the adsorption section 420 can further effectively adsorb the irregular upper surface of the battery cell stack assembly 100.

[0122] Reference Figures 12 to 14 The second gripper 400 may include a lifting pin 430. The lifting pin 430 may protrude below the base 410. Specifically, the lifting pin 430 may protrude below the operating part 412.

[0123] Reference Figures 17 to 19 The lifting pin 430 can be inserted into the clamping hole 137 formed in the side beam 130. With the lifting pin 430 inserted into the clamping hole 137, it can press the side beam 130 inward in the first horizontal direction x. Specifically, when the lifting pin 430 is inserted into the clamping hole 137, the operating unit 412 moves toward the battery cell stack assembly 100 via the operation of the drive unit 440, and the lifting pin 430 also moves accordingly toward the battery cell stack assembly 100, pressing the side beam 130 against the battery cell stack assembly 100. Thus, the battery cell stack assembly 100 remains pressed until it is transported by the clamp 300 and placed on the battery pack housing 11.

[0124] Multiple lifting pins 430 can be provided for each side beam 130. In other words, multiple lifting pins 430 can be provided for each operating part 312. The multiple lifting pins 430 provided for each side beam 130 can be arranged in the horizontal second direction y. When multiple lifting pins 430 are provided for each side beam 130, the lifting pins 430 can be effectively used to press the side beam 130.

[0125] The number of lifting pins 430 arranged on the side beams 130 in the second horizontal direction y can correspond to each other. Furthermore, the pins 430 arranged on each side beam 130 in the second horizontal direction y can be configured such that the pins 430 are positioned facing each other. Thus, since the second gripper 400 can hold the battery cell stack assembly 100 in a balanced manner, the handling stability of the battery cell stack assembly 100 can be improved.

[0126] Reference Figure 13 , Figure 14 and Figure 18 The lifting pin 430 may include a first pin 431 having a first length and a second pin 432 having a second length. For example, the first length may be longer than the second length.

[0127] When the second clamp 400 clamps the battery cell stack assembly 100, the first pin 431 may be configured to have a length that allows the lower end of the first pin 431 to protrude below the lower end of the mounting portion 133 of the side beam 130. For example, when the second clamp 400 clamps the battery cell stack assembly 100, the first pin 431 may be configured to have a length that is less than half the height of the side beam 130.

[0128] The first pin 431 can apply sufficient pressing force to the side beam 130. Specifically, when the lifting pin 430 is inserted into the clamping hole 137 of the side beam 130 to press the side beam 130 against the plurality of flat battery cells 110, the first pin 431 can be located below the lower end of the mounting portion 133 of the side beam 130, ideally below half the height of the side beam 130. This prevents the lower region of the side beam 130 from being spaced outward by the elastic restoring force of the plurality of flat battery cells 110.

[0129] For example, when the second clamp 400 clamps the battery cell stack assembly 100, a second pin 432 may be provided, such that the lower end of the second pin 432 has a length that coincides with or is located above the lower end of the mounting portion 133 of the side beam 130.

[0130] Reference Figure 13 and Figure 14Each side beam 130 has lifting pins 430 arranged in the second horizontal direction y, which can be configured as a combination of first pins 431 and second pins 432. For example, in each side beam 130, the first pins 431 and second pins 432 can be arranged alternately in the second horizontal direction y. Specifically, grooves 16 can be formed in the joint 12 so that during the installation of the battery cell stack assembly 100 into the battery pack housing 11, the first pins 431 protruding below the lower end of the mounting portion 133 and the joint 12 of the battery pack housing 11 will not interfere with each other. In this case, when all the pins in a row of lifting pins 430 are first pins 431, the number of grooves 16 corresponding to the number of grooves 16 formed in the joint 12 may weaken the structural rigidity of the joint 12. Therefore, it is preferable that the number of first pins 431 is sufficient to provide a predetermined level of pressing force for the second clamp 300, while the remaining lifting pins 430 are configured as second pins 432. However, the lifting pin 430 is not limited to this, and it can be formed as a first pin 431 when the joint 12 of the battery pack housing 11 has sufficient structural rigidity. Furthermore, although the lifting pin 430 is formed as a second pin 432, all lifting pins 430 can be formed as second pins 432 when the second clamp 400 provides sufficient pressing force to the side beam 130, and when the lower region of the side beam 130 is not separated outward by the elasticity of the multiple flat battery cells 110.

[0131] Reference Figure 13 and Figure 14 The lifting pin 430 of the side beam 130 on one side of the multiple flat battery cells 110 in the first horizontal direction x and the lifting pin 430 of the side beam 130 on the other side of the multiple flat battery cells 110 in the first horizontal direction x and the lifting pin 430 on the second horizontal direction y can have different combinations of first pin 431 and second pin 432.

[0132] For example, refer to Figure 13 This illustrates a lifting pin 430 arranged in a second horizontal direction y for a side beam 130 on one side of a plurality of flat battery cells 110 in a first horizontal direction x. The lifting pin 430 may have an arrangement of first pin 431-second pin 432-first pin 431-second pin 432-first pin 431. Meanwhile, referring to... Figure 14 The diagram shows a lifting pin 430 arranged in a horizontal second direction y for a side beam 130 on the other side of a plurality of flat battery cells 110 in a first horizontal direction x. The lifting pin 430 may have an arrangement of second pin 432-first pin 431-second pin 432-first pin 431-second pin 432.

[0133] In other words, it can be understood that one lifting pin 430 facing each other in the first horizontal direction x is the first pin 431, while the other can be the second pin 432. When all the lifting pins 430 facing each other in the first horizontal direction x are formed as the first pin 431, a joint 12 (e.g., between two battery cell stack assemblies 100) can be formed at adjacent positions in the first horizontal direction x to prevent the first pin 431 from being engaged in the joint 12 between the two battery cell stack assemblies 100. Figure 22 The interference groove 16 at the location shown (as shown) Figure 22 As shown), and therefore, with the joint 12 (as shown) Figure 22 A groove 16 is formed at the location shown. Figure 22 As shown, if the portion of the joint 12 becomes thinner, the structural rigidity of the joint 12 may weaken. Therefore, in order to make the groove 16 (as shown) corresponding to the adjacent battery cell stack assembly 100, Figure 22 As shown, the lifting pins 430 are alternately arranged at the joint 12, and it is preferable that when one lifting pin facing each other in the first horizontal direction x is the first pin 431, the other is the second pin 432.

[0134] Reference Figure 19 The horizontal cross-section of the lifting pin 430 can be a quadrilateral shape with rounded corners at its vertices. That is, the horizontal cross-section of the lifting pin 430 can be a quadrilateral shape with rounded corners at its vertices. The shape of the horizontal cross-section of the lifting pin 430 can correspond to the shape of the clamping hole 137 of the side beam 130. The size of the horizontal cross-section of the lifting pin 430 can be set slightly smaller than the size of the clamping hole 137 of the side beam 130. Because the horizontal cross-sections of the lifting pin 430 and the clamping hole 137 are set to quadrilateral shapes, when the lifting pin 430 is inserted into the clamping hole 137 to press the side beam 130 in the first horizontal direction x, the second clamp 400 can stably press the side beam 130 because the lifting pin 430 and the clamping hole 137 can be in surface contact with each other. Furthermore, because the apex of the horizontal cross-section of the lifting pin 430 and the shape of the clamping hole 137 are rounded, although the lifting pin 430 is not perfectly inserted into the center of the clamping hole 137, stable pressing by the lifting pin 430 can be achieved because the lifting pin 430 can slide along the rounded portion of the clamping hole 137 to align with the central region of the clamping hole 137 in the horizontal second direction y when the clamping pin 430 moves in the first horizontal direction x. In addition, because the apex of the horizontal cross-section of the lifting pin 430 and the shape of the clamping hole 137 are rounded, although the lifting pin 430 is inserted into the clamping hole 137 at a slight angle, deformation or damage to the side beam 130 due to stress concentration at the corners of the lifting pin 430 can be prevented. However, the shape of the cross-section of the lifting pin 430 is not limited to this and can be circular or elliptical, or it can be a quadrilateral with non-rounded apex (or corner) portions.

[0135] The lifting pin 430 can work in conjunction with the operating unit 412. Specifically, the operating unit 412 can move away from or closer to the main body 411, and the lifting pin 430 connected to the operating unit 412 can move together with the operating unit 412.

[0136] The second gripper 400 may include a drive unit 440. The drive unit 440 may include a main body 411. For example, as Figures 12 to 15 As shown, the drive unit 440 may include the main body 411. However, the drive unit 440 is not limited to this, and may be provided in the main body 411.

[0137] The second gripper 400 may include a rotating shaft 450. The rotating shaft 450 may connect the drive unit 440 and the operating unit 412. The rotating shaft 450 may provide the driving force of the drive unit 440 to the operating unit 412. The operating unit 412 may move by the operation of the drive unit 440.

[0138] Figure 20 The interior of the battery pack housing according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 21 This is an enlarged view showing a portion of a battery pack according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 22 A portion of the battery pack housing and a portion of the side beam of a battery pack according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure are shown.

[0139] Reference Figure 20 and Figure 21 The battery pack housing 11 may include guide pins 14. Guide pins 14 may protrude upwards from the base plate of the battery pack housing 11. Guide pins 14 may be positioned at locations corresponding to the four vertex regions of the battery cell stack assembly 100.

[0140] The guide pin 14 can be inserted into the guide hole 138 which can be formed in the lower part of the side beam 130. The guide hole 138 can be formed on one side and the other side of each of the two side beams 130 of the battery cell stack assembly 100 in the second horizontal direction y.

[0141] When the battery cell stack assembly 100 is placed in the battery pack housing 11, the guide pin 14 of the battery pack housing 11 can be inserted into the guide hole 138 of the side beam 130 to guide the battery cell stack assembly 100, so that the battery cell stack assembly 100 is placed and fixed in the appropriate position in the battery pack housing 11, and although the clamp 300 is separated from the battery cell stack assembly 100, the two side beams 130 of the battery cell stack assembly 100 are spaced apart in the first horizontal direction x.

[0142] Reference Figure 22With the guide pin 14 of the battery pack housing 11 inserted into the guide hole 138 of the side beam 130 and the battery cell stack assembly 100 held at its length in the first horizontal direction x, the coupling member 140 can be coupled to the coupling portion 12 of the battery pack housing 11 through the mounting hole 134, so that the battery cell stack assembly 100 can be held in place by the pressing unit 200 (e.g., Figure 6 It is installed into the battery pack housing 11 in the initial pressing state shown.

[0143] Reference Figure 20 and Figure 22 The battery pack housing 11 may include a connecting portion 12. The connecting portion 12 can be understood as a crossbeam of the battery pack housing 11. The connecting portion 12 may protrude upward from the base plate portion 13 and may extend in the second horizontal direction y. That is, the connecting portion 12 may extend in a direction corresponding to the extension direction of the side beam 130. Two adjacent battery cell stack assemblies 100 in the first horizontal direction x may be connected to the connecting portion 12.

[0144] The battery pack housing 11 may include a mating hole 15. The mating hole 15 may be formed to penetrate through the upper surface of the mating portion 12. When the battery cell stack assembly 100 is mounted to the battery pack housing 11, the mating hole 15 may be formed at a position that overlaps with the mounting hole 134 of the side beam 130 in the vertical direction. The mating member 140 passing through the mounting hole 134 of the side beam 130 may be fastened to the mating hole 15.

[0145] The battery pack housing 11 may include a recess 16. The recess 16 may be formed as an opening on the upper surface and side of the joint 12. However, the recess 16 is not limited to this and may be formed as a through-hole extending through the upper surface of the joint 12. The vertex (or corner) portion of the recess 16 may be rounded. That is, the vertex (or corner) portion of the recess 16 may open in a rounded manner.

[0146] When the groove 16 is formed, the first pin 431 of the lifting pin 430 of the second gripper 400 does not interfere with the connecting portion 12. Specifically, the first pin 431 of the second gripper 400 can protrude below the mounting portion 133 of the side beam 130, and when the second gripper 400 in this state transports and installs the battery cell stack assembly 100 onto the battery pack housing 11, a portion of the first pin 431 protruding below the mounting portion 133 can be inserted into the groove 16. Thus, the first pin 431 and the connecting portion 12 do not interfere with each other.

[0147] Formed as two battery cell stack assemblies 100 disposed on one side and the other side in the horizontal first direction x at the joint 12 (e.g. Figure 1Each corresponding groove 16 in the diagram can be formed at a position where they do not overlap in the first horizontal direction x. Specifically, the groove 16 formed on one side of the joint 12 in the first horizontal direction x and the groove 16 formed on the other side of the joint 12 in the first horizontal direction x can be formed at a position where they do not overlap in the first horizontal direction x. Regarding Figure 13 and Figure 14 This corresponds to the alternating arrangement of the first pin 431 and the second pin 432 in the lifting pins 430 arranged in the second horizontal direction x. One lifting pin 430 facing each other in the first horizontal direction x is the first pin 431, and the other is formed as the second pin 432. Thus, since the thickness of the joint 12 in the first horizontal direction x can be maintained above a predetermined level, the structural rigidity of the joint 12 can be prevented from being weakened by the groove 16.

[0148] Figure 23 This is a flowchart of a method for manufacturing a battery pack according to various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0149] In the following text, reference will be made to Figures 1 to 22 describe Figure 23 The manufacturing method of the battery pack 10 shown in the figure.

[0150] The manufacturing method of the battery pack 10 may include the manufacturing method of the battery cell stack assembly 100 (including steps 2301 to 2306).

[0151] For example, in steps 2301 and 2302, the method of manufacturing the battery cell stack assembly 100 may include applying adhesive A to the surface of the side beam 130 facing the plurality of flat battery cells 110 while the side beam 130 is held by a first gripper 300 connected to an articulated robot R1. In this case, the side beam 130 can be rotated at various angles by the articulated robot R1. To facilitate the application of adhesive A to the side beam 130, the side beam 130 can be rotated such that the surface of the side beam 130 facing the plurality of battery cells 110 is facing upwards.

[0152] In step 2303, the method of manufacturing the battery cell stack assembly 100 may include providing a side beam 130 on each of the opposing surfaces of the two pressing portions 210. At this time, temporary fixing holes (not shown), mounting holes 134, or clamping holes 137 formed on the lower surface of the mounting portion 133 of the side beam 130 can be disposed on the protruding pin 240. This allows the position of the side beam 130 to be guided. The side beam 130 can be air-adsorbed onto each of the opposing surfaces of the two pressing portions 210 and thus fixed to the inner surface of the pressing portion 210. Air adsorption of the side beam 130 can be performed by providing an air adsorption portion 230 to the pressing portion 210.

[0153] In step 2304, the method of manufacturing the battery cell stack assembly 100 may include disposing of a plurality of flat battery cells 110 between two pressing portions 210 on a tray 220. In step 2304, the battery cell stack assembly 100 can be understood as being disposed between two side beams 130 that are adsorbed onto the two pressing portions 210.

[0154] In contrast, the setup of multiple flat battery cells 110 can be performed before the side beam 130 is supplied to the pressing unit 200, or the two steps described above can be performed simultaneously.

[0155] In step 2305, the method of manufacturing the battery cell stack assembly 100 may include attaching the side beam 130 to the plurality of flat battery cells 110 by moving two pressing portions 210 toward the plurality of flat battery cells 110. Specifically, the side beam 130 may move toward the plurality of flat battery cells 110 as the pressing portions 210 move, and may be attached to the plurality of flat battery cells 110 by an adhesive A applied to the surface of the side beam 130 facing the plurality of flat battery cells 110.

[0156] In step 2306, the method of manufacturing the battery cell stack assembly 100 may include pressing side beams 130 toward a plurality of flat battery cells 110 by moving two pressing portions 210 toward the plurality of flat battery cells 110. The pressing of the side beams 130 may be performed until the length of the battery cell stack assembly 100 in the horizontal first direction x reaches a desired level. For example, when mounting the battery cell stack assembly 100 to a battery pack housing 11 (such as...) Figure 1 When the side beams 130 are pressed into the battery cell stack assembly 100, the two side beams 130 of the battery cell stack assembly 100 with lengths in the first horizontal direction x can be coupled to the battery pack housing 11 (as shown). Figure 1 The joint 12 (as shown) Figure 1 (as shown in the figure) level.

[0157] Then, the method of manufacturing the battery pack 10 may include, after manufacturing the battery cell stack assembly 100 according to steps 2301 to 2306, attaching the second clamp 400 to the battery cell stack assembly 100 and inserting the lifting pin 430 into the clamping hole 137 formed in the side beam 130 in step 2307. At this time, the battery cell stack assembly 100 may be in a state where it is pressed by the pressing unit 200 in the horizontal first direction x.

[0158] In step 2308, the method of manufacturing the battery pack 10 may include pressing the side beam 130 toward the plurality of flat battery cells 110 by moving the lifting pin 430 toward the plurality of flat battery cells 110. Thus, even when the two pressing portions 210 of the pressing unit 200 are spaced outwards, causing the pressing of the pressing unit 200 to be released, the pressed state of the battery cell stack assembly 100 can be maintained.

[0159] In step 2309, the method of manufacturing the battery pack 10 may include using an adsorption portion 420 provided on the second gripper 400 to adsorb the upper surface of the battery cell stack assembly 100. The adsorption portion 420 can adsorb the battery cell stack assembly 100, and thereby the battery cell stack assembly 100 can be raised and lowered by the second gripper 400.

[0160] When adsorption by the adsorption section 420 is performed before being pressed by the pressing unit 200, since the adsorption section 420, which has a sponge material, may get stuck between the flat battery cells 110, it is preferable to perform adsorption by the adsorption section 420 after the battery cell stack assembly 100 has been fully pressed by the pressing unit 200.

[0161] Meanwhile, in each exemplary embodiment, the adsorption of the top surface of the battery cell stack assembly 100 by the adsorption section 420 can be performed before the side beam 130 is pressed toward the plurality of flat battery cells 110 by the lifting pin 430, and can be performed simultaneously with the pressing of the side beam 130 toward the plurality of flat battery cells 110 by the lifting pin 430, and can be performed after the pressing of the side beam 130 toward the plurality of flat battery cells 110 by the lifting pin 430.

[0162] In step 2310, the method of manufacturing the battery pack 10 may include releasing the pressing of the pressing part 210. In step 2310, in order to prevent the protruding pin 240, which protrudes above the pressing part 210 and is inserted into the temporary fixing hole (not shown), mounting hole 134, or clamping hole 137 formed on the lower surface of the mounting part 133 of the side beam 130, from interfering with the side beam 130, the protruding pin 240 may be lowered into the pressing part 210.

[0163] In step 2311, the method of manufacturing the battery pack 10 may include moving and positioning the battery cell stack assembly 100, which is held by the second clamp 400, into the battery pack housing 11. In step 2311, the battery cell stack assembly 100 may be configured such that the guide pin 14 of the battery pack housing 11 is inserted into the guide hole 138 of the side beam 130.

[0164] In step 2312, the method of manufacturing the battery pack 10 may include separating the second clamp 400 from the battery cell stack assembly 100.

[0165] The method of manufacturing the battery pack 10 may also include making the connecting member 140 (such as...) Figure 1 (As shown) Passes through mounting hole 134 and is joined to the joint of battery pack housing 11.

[0166] The exemplary embodiments or other exemplary embodiments of this disclosure described above are not mutually exclusive or distinct from each other. The various elements or functions in the exemplary embodiments or other exemplary embodiments of this disclosure described above can be combined or used in combination with each other.

[0167] For example, element A described in the exemplary embodiments and / or figures and / or element B described in another exemplary embodiment and / or figure can be combined. In other words, although the combination between elements is not directly described, such combination is possible unless it is described as impossible.

[0168] The foregoing details should not be construed as limiting in all respects, but should be considered as exemplary. The scope of this disclosure will be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications equivalent to the scope of this disclosure are within its scope.

Claims

1. A gripper configured to transport a battery cell stack assembly to a battery pack housing, the battery cell stack assembly including a plurality of flat battery cells stacked in a first horizontal direction and side beams coupled to the plurality of flat battery cells on one and another side in the first horizontal direction, the gripper comprising: A base is disposed above the battery cell stack assembly; An adsorption section is disposed in the central region of the base below the base and configured to adsorb the battery cell stack assembly; as well as A lifting pin protrudes below the base and is configured to engage with a clamping hole formed in the side beam in the vertical direction.

2. The clamp according to claim 1, wherein, The lifting pin is configured to press the side beam toward the plurality of flat battery cells when it is inserted into the clamping hole.

3. The clamp according to claim 1, wherein, The base includes: Main body; and The operating part is provided on one side and the other side of the main body in the first horizontal direction. The operating part is configured to move away from or towards the main body, and The lifting pin protrudes below the operating part and is configured to move together with the operating part.

4. The clamp according to claim 3, further comprising: The driving part is fixed to the main body part; as well as A rotating shaft is configured to connect the drive unit and the operating unit. The operating unit is configured to move by the operation of the driving unit.

5. The clamp according to claim 1, wherein, The clamping hole has a rounded quadrilateral shape, and The lifting pin has a rounded quadrilateral shape to correspond to the shape of the clamping hole.

6. The clamp according to claim 1, wherein, For each of the side beams attached to one and the other side of the plurality of flat battery cells in the first horizontal direction, the lifting pins are arranged along a second horizontal direction that intersects the first horizontal direction.

7. The clamp according to claim 6, wherein, The lifting pins arranged in the second horizontal direction for the side beams on one side of the plurality of flat battery cells in the first horizontal direction are arranged in a corresponding number to each other.

8. The clamp according to claim 6, wherein, The lifting pins arranged in the second horizontal direction include: First sales; and The second pin is shorter than the first pin.

9. The clamp according to claim 8, wherein, The first pin and the second pin are alternately arranged in the second horizontal direction.

10. The clamp according to claim 8, wherein, The lifting pins of the side beams attached to one side of the plurality of flat-plate battery cells in the first horizontal direction, arranged in the second horizontal direction, and the lifting pins of the side beams attached to the other side of the plurality of flat-plate battery cells in the second horizontal direction, are respectively arranged at positions facing each other in the first horizontal direction. One of the lifting pins facing each other in the first horizontal direction is the first pin, and The other is the second pin.

11. The clamp according to claim 1, wherein, The adsorption section includes a pad made of elastic material.

12. The clamp according to claim 1, wherein, The adsorption section is configured to be formed of a large-area foam-type material.

13. The clamp according to claim 1, wherein, The adsorption section has multiple adsorption pores.

14. A method for manufacturing a battery pack, the method comprising assembling a battery cell stack assembly into a battery pack housing using a clamp, the clamp including a base and a lifting pin projecting below the base, the battery cell stack assembly including a plurality of flat battery cells stacked in a first horizontal direction and side beams coupled to the plurality of flat battery cells on one side and the other side in the first horizontal direction, wherein, The side beam includes: A flat, plate-like portion; and The mounting portion protrudes from the plate portion in the direction opposite to the plurality of flat battery cells, and The method for manufacturing the battery pack includes: The lifting pin is inserted into a clamping hole formed in the mounting portion in the vertical direction, wherein the mounting portion is coupled to one side and the other side of the plurality of flat battery cells in the horizontal first direction. The side beam is pressed toward the plurality of flat battery cells by moving the lifting pin toward the plurality of flat battery cells, and the upper surface of the battery cell stack assembly is adsorbed by the adsorption part provided on the clamp. The battery cell stack assembly is positioned inside the battery pack housing by moving the battery cell stack assembly held by the clamp; and The clamp is detached from the battery cell stack assembly.

15. The method for manufacturing a battery pack according to claim 14, wherein, The battery pack housing includes: Base plate; and The joint portion protrudes above the base plate portion, and when the battery cell stack assembly is disposed in the battery pack housing, the joint portion is located below the mounting portion. The lifting pin includes a first pin, which is configured to have a length in which its lower end protrudes further downward than the lower part of the mounting portion when the clamp holds the battery cell stack assembly. The joint is formed with a groove that can accommodate the first pin, which protrudes downwards from below the mounting portion when the battery cell stack assembly is held in place by the clamp and positioned in the battery pack housing.

16. The method for manufacturing a battery pack according to claim 15, wherein, The joint is disposed between two adjacent battery cell stack assemblies arranged in the first horizontal direction within the battery pack housing, and The grooves formed corresponding to each of the two battery cell stack assemblies are formed at positions that do not overlap with each other in the first horizontal direction.

17. The method for manufacturing a battery pack according to claim 14, wherein, The battery pack housing includes a guide pin that projects upward from the bottom plate portion of the battery pack housing. The lower part of the side beam has a guide hole for inserting the guide pin, and When the battery cell stack assembly is moved to be disposed inside the battery pack housing, the battery cell stack assembly is configured such that the guide pin is inserted into the guide hole.

18. The method for manufacturing a battery pack according to claim 14, wherein, The step of pressing the side beam toward the plurality of flat battery cells using the lifting pins precedes the step of adsorbing the upper surface of the battery cell stack assembly using the adsorption part provided on the clamp.

19. The method of manufacturing a battery pack according to claim 14, further comprising, after the clamp is separated from the battery cell stack assembly, engaging the engaging member to the engaging portion of the battery pack housing by passing the engaging member through a mounting hole formed vertically in the mounting portion.

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