Battery cell manufacturing method and battery cell manufacturing system

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a method for manufacturing a battery cell, the battery cell comprising: an exterior material in which an electrode assembly is accommodated; and a lead tab that electrically connects the electrode assembly to the outside and includes a stopper portion formed to protrude toward one side, the method including: a pre-cutting step of cutting a first region located at one end of a cutting lead tab that is connected to the electrode assembly and protrudes toward the outside of the exterior material, and a cutting step of cutting a second region located at the other end of the cutting lead tab that is connected to the electrode assembly and protrudes toward the outside of the exterior material; and a main cutting step of cutting a second region disposed at a predetermined distance from the stopper on the cutting lead tab to form the lead tab.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a method and system for manufacturing battery cells. Specifically, it relates to a method and system for manufacturing battery cells for forming a stop portion on a lead sheet. Background Technology

[0002] A rechargeable battery is a type of battery that converts electrical energy into chemical energy and stores it, allowing for repeated use through charging and discharging. Due to their economic and environmentally friendly characteristics, rechargeable batteries are widely used in various industries. In particular, lithium-ion batteries are widely used in industries including portable devices requiring high-density energy.

[0003] To manufacture rechargeable batteries with high output and high capacity, multiple rechargeable batteries are often combined. For example, based on the assembly unit, rechargeable batteries can be divided into cells, battery modules, and battery packs. Combining cells can form battery modules, and combining battery modules can form battery packs.

[0004] A battery module can connect multiple cells to an external power source via a busbar assembly. However, during the insertion of these cells into the busbar assembly, errors and defects may occur due to assembly or stacking tolerances. This can lead to reduced quality or decreased production efficiency in the manufactured battery module. Summary of the Invention

[0005] (a) Technical problems to be solved The technical problem to be solved by this disclosure is to provide a battery cell manufacturing method and system that can reduce the error when inserting a busbar assembly by forming a stop portion on the lead piece of the battery cell.

[0006] In addition, this disclosure aims to provide a battery cell manufacturing method and system that can improve the assembly stability of the battery cell and busbar assembly by constantly setting the distance from the stop portion to one end.

[0007] In addition, this disclosure aims to provide a cell manufacturing method and system that improves energy density and performance by reducing cell stacking tolerances and assembly errors.

[0008] In addition, this disclosure can be widely applied to green technology fields such as electric vehicles, battery charging stations, and other battery-powered solar and wind power generation.

[0009] In addition, this disclosure can be used for eco-friendly electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, etc., to prevent climate change by suppressing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

[0010] (II) Technical Solution This disclosure relates to a method for manufacturing a battery cell, the battery cell comprising: an outer casing material, an inner casing for an electrode assembly; and a lead sheet for electrically connecting the electrode assembly to an external source and including a stop portion protruding to one side. The method includes: a pre-cutting step of cutting a first region located at one end of a cutting lead sheet, the cutting lead sheet being connected to the electrode assembly and protruding outward from the outer casing material; and a main cutting step of cutting a second region on the cutting lead sheet that is spaced at a predetermined distance from the stop portion to form the lead sheet.

[0011] The cell manufacturing method may further include a bending step, in which pressure is applied to the bending region of the cutting lead sheet in one direction to form a stop portion with a curved surface.

[0012] The cell manufacturing method may further include: a measurement step, measuring the shape of the lead sheet.

[0013] The battery cell manufacturing method may further include a conveying step, in which the battery cell is placed on the upper surface of a conveying component to convey the battery cell.

[0014] The pre-cutting step may include: a first alignment step, moving the battery cell to position it in a preset alignment area; and a first cutting step, cutting the first area.

[0015] In the first alignment step, pressure can be applied to one side of the battery cell where the cutting lead is provided, so that the battery cell faces the vertical alignment portion located on one side of the alignment area, and pressure can be applied to the other side of the battery cell that is perpendicular to the first side, so that the battery cell faces the horizontal alignment portion located on the other side of the alignment area and perpendicular to the vertical alignment portion.

[0016] The bending step can be performed between the first alignment step and the first cutting step.

[0017] In the bending step, pressure can be applied to one side and the other side of the bending area by means of a support portion and a pressure portion, respectively. The support portion includes a protrusion protruding from one area, and the pressure portion includes a recess formed in a shape corresponding to the protrusion.

[0018] The curved area can be formed in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the lead sheet protrudes.

[0019] In the pre-cutting step, when the support and the pressure-applying parts apply pressure to the curved area, the first cutting component can cut the first area.

[0020] In the first cutting step, multiple cuts can be formed at one end of the cutting lead piece.

[0021] The cut may be formed along one edge of the cutting lead piece, a region of the one edge, and a region of another edge perpendicular to the one edge.

[0022] The main cutting step may include: a second alignment step, moving the battery cell to position it in a preset fixed area; and a second cutting step, cutting the second area.

[0023] In the second alignment step, pressure can be applied to one side of the battery cell where the cutting lead is provided, so that the battery cell faces the vertical fixing part located on one side of the fixing area, and pressure can be applied to the other side of the battery cell that is perpendicular to the one side, so that the battery cell faces the horizontal fixing part located on the other side of the fixing area and perpendicular to the vertical fixing part.

[0024] The bending step can be performed between the second alignment step and the second cutting step.

[0025] In the second cutting step, the cutting can be performed from one area of ​​one cut to another area of ​​another cut along a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the lead sheet protrudes.

[0026] The conveying unit can repeatedly run and stop at preset intervals.

[0027] In addition, to solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the battery cell manufacturing system disclosed herein includes: a first alignment section and a second alignment section for moving the battery cell to a preset battery cell region, the battery cell including: an outer casing material and an internally housed electrode assembly; and a lead sheet for electrically connecting the electrode assembly to the outside; a pre-cutting section for cutting a first region located on the cutting lead sheet, the cutting lead sheet being connected to the electrode assembly and electrically connecting the electrode assembly to the outside; a bending section for applying pressure to a bending region located on the cutting lead sheet in one direction to form a "U"-shaped stop; and a main cutting section for cutting a second region of the lead sheet spaced at a preset distance from the stop.

[0028] The cell manufacturing system may further include: a measuring unit for measuring the shape of the lead sheet.

[0029] The battery cell manufacturing system may further include: a conveying unit for conveying the battery cells.

[0030] (III) Beneficial Effects This disclosure provides a battery cell manufacturing method and system that reduces errors when inserting a busbar assembly by forming a stop portion on the lead piece of the battery cell.

[0031] Additionally, a battery cell manufacturing method and system can be provided that improves the assembly stability of the battery cell and busbar assembly by constantly setting the distance from the stop portion to one end.

[0032] In addition, a cell manufacturing method and system can be provided to improve energy density and performance by reducing cell stacking tolerances and assembly errors. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Figure 1 A battery cell according to this disclosure is shown.

[0034] Figure 2 A battery module according to this disclosure is shown.

[0035] Figure 3 The diagram shows the connection status of the battery cell and busbar assembly according to this disclosure.

[0036] Figure 4 A cutting lead sheet according to this disclosure is shown.

[0037] Figure 5 and Figure 6 A method for manufacturing a battery cell according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0038] Figure 7 A cell manufacturing system according to this disclosure is shown.

[0039] Figure 8 The first alignment portion according to this disclosure is shown.

[0040] Figure 9 A curved portion and a pre-cut portion are shown according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] Figure 10 The second alignment portion according to this disclosure is shown.

[0042] Figure 11 The main cutting portion according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0043] Figure 12 A method for manufacturing a battery cell according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0044] The preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The configurations or control methods of the apparatus described below are merely illustrative of embodiments of the present disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, and the same reference numerals used throughout the specification denote the same components.

[0045] The specific terminology used in this specification is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the embodiments shown.

[0046] For example, expressions such as "same" and "identical" not only indicate a state of strict sameness, but also indicate a state of difference in tolerance or degree of achieving the same functionality.

[0047] For example, expressions such as "any direction", "along any direction", "parallel", "vertical", "centered on", "concentric" or "coaxial" indicate relative or absolute arrangement. They not only indicate strict arrangement, but also indicate the existence of tolerances or the state of relative displacement of angles or distances to obtain the same degree of functionality.

[0048] To illustrate this disclosure, the following explanation is based on an orthogonal spatial coordinate system in which the X, Y, and Z axes are orthogonal to each other. Each axis (X-axis direction, Y-axis direction, Z-axis direction) represents the two directions on which each axis extends.

[0049] The X, Y, and Z directions are described below for the purpose of making this disclosure clearer. Of course, each direction may be defined differently depending on the reference datum.

[0050] The use of terms such as "first," "second," and "third" before the components described below is to avoid confusion and is unrelated to the order, importance, or hierarchy of the components. For example, it is also possible to implement a solution that includes only the second component and omits the first component.

[0051] Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, singular expressions as used in this specification include plural expressions.

[0052] Figure 1 The battery cell 10 according to this disclosure is shown. Figure 2 A battery module 900 according to this disclosure is shown. Figure 3 The diagram shows the connection status of the battery cell 10 and the busbar assembly 950 according to this disclosure.

[0053] The battery cell 10 described in this specification refers to a reusable secondary battery that can be repeatedly charged and discharged. As an example, it could be a lithium-ion secondary battery. However, the battery cell 10 described in this specification is not limited to lithium-ion secondary batteries.

[0054] The main components of the battery cell 10 are a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and an electrolyte, which are manufactured within an outer casing (housing or bag) 11. The battery cell 10 further includes lead tabs 13 protruding from the outer casing 11 for external electrical connection. The lead tabs 13 can be connected to the positive and negative electrodes, respectively.

[0055] On the other hand, the battery module 900 described in this specification refers to a battery assembly in which the battery cells 10 are grouped into one or more groups and placed into a housing to protect the battery cells 10 from external impacts, heat and vibration, and to have high output and high capacity characteristics.

[0056] The battery cell 10 according to this disclosure includes: an outer casing material 11, an internally housing electrode assembly; and lead wires 13 for electrically connecting the electrode assembly to the outside.

[0057] The outer casing material 11 may include a first body (not shown) and a second body (not shown) for forming a receiving space for accommodating the electrode assembly. The first body and the second body may each include a first sealing portion and a second sealing portion formed along their outer edges. The first body and the second body can be joined together by the combination of the first sealing portion and the second sealing portion.

[0058] The outer casing 11 may contain a material with high mechanical rigidity to protect the electrode assembly from external influences. For example, the outer casing 11 may contain an aluminum layer.

[0059] Additionally, the outer casing 11 may include an insulating layer for insulating the exterior from the interior. Ultimately, the outer casing 11 can be formed by stacking multiple layers that perform independent functions.

[0060] The lead piece 13 can be inserted between the first sealing part and the second sealing part, and protrudes outward from the outer material 11. The lead piece 13 may include a positive electrode tab and a negative electrode tab. The positive electrode tab is connected to the positive electrode, and the negative electrode tab is connected to the negative electrode.

[0061] The lead piece 13 can be formed by protruding from one side of the cell 10 in the same direction. Alternatively, it can be formed by protruding from one side of the cell 10 and the opposite side thereon.

[0062] The battery cell may further include an adhesive portion 15. The adhesive portion can be used to bond the outer material 11 and the lead sheet 13. For example, the adhesive portion can be a sealant.

[0063] Multiple cells 10 can be stacked in one direction to form a battery module 900. (See reference...) Figure 2The battery module 900 may further include multiple battery cells 10 and a busbar assembly 950. The battery module 900 may further include module housings 910 and 920.

[0064] Module housings 910 and 920 can accommodate multiple battery cells internally. Module housings 910 and 920 may include a lower cover 910 supporting the battery cells and an upper cover 920 coupled to the lower cover 910. The lower cover 910 may include a support body 911 supporting the battery cells and side bodies 912 extending upwards from both sides of the support body. (See reference...) Figure 2 The support body can be connected to the side body to be configured as a channel shape with openings on the upper surface and both sides.

[0065] The upper cover 920 can be combined with the lower cover 910. The upper cover can be combined with the two edges of the side body. The upper and lower covers can be combined to form a channel shape with openings on both sides.

[0066] The module housings 910 and 920 may further include a front cover 930 and an end cover 940. The front cover 930 may be combined with the upper cover 920 and the lower cover 910. The end cover 940 may be combined with the upper cover 920 and the lower cover 910.

[0067] Ultimately, the top cover, bottom cover, front cover, and end cover are combined to accommodate multiple battery cells internally.

[0068] The battery module 900 may further include a busbar assembly 950. The busbar assembly 950 can electrically connect multiple battery cells 10. Ultimately, the multiple battery cells 10 are housed inside the module housing, and the busbar assembly 950 can electrically connect the multiple battery cells 10.

[0069] Therefore, the busbar assembly 950 may include a through-hole 951 for insertion of the power supply core 10. (See reference...) Figure 3 The lead piece 13 of the battery cell 10 is inserted into the through hole 951, so that the busbar assembly 950 and the battery cell 10 are combined. Finally, multiple batteries 10 are inserted into the through holes of the busbar assembly and form a structure with the lead piece 13 protruding.

[0070] However, during the stacking process of the battery cells 10, stacking tolerances may prevent the battery cells 10 from being inserted into the busbar assembly 950. Furthermore, after the battery cells 10 are inserted into the busbar assembly, assembly may not proceed smoothly due to the different protruding lengths of the lead pieces 13. Therefore, the inability to effectively utilize the internal space may reduce the energy density of the battery module. Additionally, the different protruding lengths may reduce assembly stability.

[0071] The battery cell manufacturing method disclosed herein can improve the stability and performance of the battery module by providing a stop portion 14 on the lead piece 13. Additionally, refer to... Figure 3 The stop portion 14 prevents the lead sheet from protruding beyond a predetermined distance. Furthermore, the battery cell 10 manufacturing method of this disclosure allows for the provision of a cutout portion 310 at one end of the lead sheet 13, thereby facilitating the insertion of the battery cell 10 into the busbar assembly.

[0072] Similarly, the battery cell manufacturing system 1000 disclosed herein may provide a stop portion 14 and a cut portion 310 on the lead sheet 13.

[0073] Figure 4 The cutting lead sheet 12 according to this disclosure is shown.

[0074] Reference Figure 4 The battery cell 10 may include a cutting lead sheet 12. A lead sheet 13 can be manufactured by processing the cutting lead sheet 12. The cutting lead sheet 12 can be connected to both the positive and negative terminals. One area of ​​the cutting lead sheet 12 can be pressed to bend. Additionally, another area of ​​the cutting lead sheet 12 can be cut. This is to ensure that the protruding length of the lead sheet conforms to a predetermined specification when inserted into the busbar assembly. Thus, multiple battery cells 10 can be manufactured with the same protruding length. Finally, the cutting lead sheet 12 can be bent or cut to form the lead sheet 13.

[0075] Reference Figure 4 The cutting lead sheet 12 may include a bent region 122, a first region 121, and a second region 123. The bent region 122 may be located on the cutting lead sheet 12. The bent region 122 may be bent to form a stop 14. The bent region 122 may be formed to a length of 2 mm to 7 mm. The stop may be formed to protrude outward from the cutting lead sheet. Thus, the stop 14 protrudes by a predetermined length, so that during insertion, the stop 14 can be locked in place by a through hole.

[0076] The first region 121 may be located at one end of the cutting lead piece 12. The first region 121 may be cut to form a cut portion 310. (See reference...) Figure 4 The first region 121 may include the vertices of the cutting lead piece 12. Thus, a cutout 310 may be formed at the corner. For example, the cutout 310 may be a chamfer. Alternatively, the cutout 310 may include a curved surface.

[0077] This is to facilitate the insertion of the lead piece 13 into the busbar assembly. Because the cutout 310 reduces the length of the lead piece 13 in the Y direction, the lead piece 13 can be easily inserted into the busbar assembly. The cutout 310 can guide the battery cell 10 after insertion through the through-hole.

[0078] The second region 123 can be located at one end of the lead sheet 12 for cutting. The second region 123 can be set at a predetermined distance from the stop portion 14 formed by bending. This is to adjust the length of the lead sheet 13. As a result, the length of the battery cell 10 can be manufactured uniformly.

[0079] For example, the second region 123 can be set 1mm to 3mm apart from the stop portion 14. This can improve assembly stability when assembling the battery module.

[0080] Figure 5 and Figure 6 A method for manufacturing a battery cell according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 7 A cell manufacturing system 1000 according to this disclosure is shown.

[0081] Reference Figure 5 The battery cell manufacturing method disclosed herein includes a pre-cutting step S10 and a main cutting step S30.

[0082] In the battery cell manufacturing method disclosed herein, a first region 121 located at one end of the lead sheet 12 for cutting can be cut in the pre-cutting step S10. Referring to the above, a cut portion 310 can be formed by performing the pre-cutting step S10.

[0083] Reference Figure 7 The battery cell manufacturing system 1000 disclosed herein may include a pre-cutting section 300. The pre-cutting section 300 may perform a pre-cutting step S10.

[0084] In the battery cell manufacturing method disclosed herein, in the main cutting step S30, the lead sheet 13 can be formed by cutting a second region 123 on the cutting lead sheet 12 that is spaced at a predetermined distance from the stop portion 14. The main cutting step will be described in detail after the pre-cutting step.

[0085] Reference Figure 6 The pre-cutting step S10 may include a first alignment step S11 and a first cutting step S13. In order to precisely cut the first region 121 according to specifications, the cutting lead sheet 12 needs to be aligned. Therefore, the first alignment step S11 may be performed before the first cutting step S13. The first alignment step S11 may be performed by the first alignment unit 100.

[0086] Finally, the first cutting step S13 means cutting the first region 121, and the first alignment step S11 means moving the battery cell 10 before cutting so that the battery cell 10 is located in the preset alignment region 110.

[0087] To align the battery cell 10, an alignment area 110 can be pre-set. For example, when the battery cell 10 is moved via a conveyor plate, the alignment area 10 can be pre-set on the conveyor plate. Alternatively, the alignment area 110 can be a virtual area. The alignment area 110 can be a virtual area confirmed visually.

[0088] Figure 8 The first alignment portion 100 according to this disclosure is shown.

[0089] Reference Figure 8 The first alignment portion 100 may include a vertical alignment portion 120, a horizontal alignment portion 130, and an alignment pressing portion 140. The vertical alignment portion 120 may be located on one side of the alignment region 110.

[0090] The horizontal alignment portion 130 may be perpendicular to the vertical alignment portion 120 on the other side of the alignment region 110. For example, the vertical alignment portion 120 and the horizontal alignment portion 130 may be a datum block. Alternatively, the vertical alignment portion 120 and the horizontal alignment portion 130 may be virtual regions.

[0091] The alignment and pressure application section 140 can apply pressure to the battery cell 10. Multiple alignment and pressure application sections 140 can be provided to move the battery cell 10 in the vertical or horizontal direction.

[0092] Reference Figure 8 The alignment and pressing portion 140 may include a first alignment and pressing portion 143 and a second alignment and pressing portion 144 disposed in the direction of protrusion of the lead sheet 13, i.e., the X direction. In addition, the alignment and pressing portion 140 may include a third alignment and pressing portion 141 and a fourth alignment and pressing portion 142 disposed in the direction perpendicular to the direction of protrusion of the lead sheet 13, i.e., the Y direction.

[0093] The alignment and pressure application portion 140 can be made of an elastic material to apply pressure to the battery cell 10 while minimizing the impact on the battery cell 10. For example, the alignment and pressure application portion 140 can be a tension spring.

[0094] The alignment pressure section 140 can apply pressure to one side of the battery cell 10, thereby moving the battery cell 10 toward the vertical alignment section 120 and the horizontal alignment section 130.

[0095] In an embodiment, the cell manufacturing method according to this disclosure may perform a bending step SB between the first alignment step S11 and the first cutting step S13.

[0096] In the bending step SB, a stop with a curved surface can be formed by applying pressure to the bending area of ​​the cutting lead sheet in one direction.

[0097] That is, before the cut portion 310 is formed, the bending region 122 can be bent to form the stop portion 14. The bending step SB can be performed by the bending portion 500.

[0098] Figure 9 A bent portion 500 and a pre-cut portion 300 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure are shown.

[0099] Reference Figure 9 The bending portion 500 may include a support portion 510 and a pressure portion 520. The support portion 510 may include a protrusion 5101 that protrudes over a region. The pressure portion 520 may include a recess 5201 formed in a shape corresponding to the protrusion 5101. For example, the support portion 510 may be a bending die. The pressure portion 520 may be a bending punch.

[0100] The support portion 510 can support one side of the bending region 122. The support portion 510 can apply pressure to one side of the bending region 122, and the pressure-applying portion 520 can apply pressure to the other side. Finally, the support portion 510 and the pressure-applying portion 520 can clamp and pressurize the cutting lead sheet 12. Thus, the stop portion 14 can be formed.

[0101] The stop may include a curved surface. The stop may be formed by protruding from a region of the lead sheet. For example, see the description below. Figure 11 The stop part can be set in a "U" shape.

[0102] The protrusion 5101 provided in the support 510 can apply pressure to the bending area 122 to form the stop 14. Thus, while precisely forming the stop 14, damage to the cutting lead 12 can also be prevented.

[0103] The bending region 122 can be formed in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the lead piece 13 protrudes. This is to prevent the stop portion 14 ( Figure 11 The stop portion 14 protrudes in the Z direction and is formed along the X direction of the cutting lead piece 12. Therefore, the stop portion 14 cannot pass through the through hole.

[0104] The pre-cutting section 300 may include a first cutting member 530. When pressure is applied to the bent region 122 by the support section 510 and the pressure section 520, the first cutting member 530 can cut the first region 121. The cutting lead sheet 12 is fixed by the support section 510 and the pressure section 520 so that the first cutting member 530 can accurately cut the first region 121.

[0105] When cutting the first region 121, multiple cuts 310 can be formed at one end of the cutting lead piece 12. Furthermore, the cuts 310 can be formed along one region of one edge and one region of the other edge of the cutting lead piece 12. The one edge and the other edge can be formed perpendicularly.

[0106] This is to cut a portion of one end of the cutting lead piece 12 so that the cutting lead piece 12 can be easily inserted into the insertion hole.

[0107] For example, refer to Figure 4 The first region 121 may include corners and has multiple edges. The first cutting portion may cut the first region 121 to form multiple cut portions 310.

[0108] The battery cell manufacturing method disclosed herein can cut the second region 123 in the main cutting step S30 to form the lead sheet 13. The main cutting section 400 of the battery cell manufacturing system 1000 disclosed herein can cut the second region 123 to form the lead sheet 13.

[0109] Refer again Figure 6 The main cutting step S30 may include a second alignment step S31 and a second cutting step S33. As described above, in order to precisely cut the second region 123, the battery cell 10 can be moved so that the battery cell 10 is located in a preset fixed region 210. For this purpose, the second alignment step S31 may be performed before the second cutting step S33.

[0110] To align the battery cell 10, a fixed area 210 can be pre-set. For example, when the battery cell 10 is moved via a conveyor plate, the fixed area 210 can be pre-set on the conveyor plate. Alternatively, the fixed area 210 can be a virtual area. The fixed area 210 can be a virtual area confirmed visually.

[0111] Figure 10 The second alignment portion 200 according to this disclosure is shown.

[0112] Reference Figure 10 The second alignment portion 200 may include a vertical fixing portion 220, a horizontal fixing portion 230, and a fixing pressure portion 240. The vertical fixing portion 220 may be disposed at one edge of the fixing region 210. The horizontal fixing portion 230 may be disposed perpendicularly to the vertical fixing portion 220 at the other edge of the fixing region 210. For example, the vertical fixing portion 220 and the horizontal fixing portion 230 may be a reference block. Alternatively, the vertical fixing portion 220 and the horizontal fixing portion 230 may represent a virtual region.

[0113] The fixed pressure unit 240 can apply pressure to the battery cell 10. Multiple fixed pressure units 240 can be provided to allow the battery cell 10 to move in the vertical or horizontal direction.

[0114] Reference Figure 10 The fixing pressure section 240 may include a first fixing pressure section 243 and a second fixing pressure section 244 disposed in the direction of protrusion of the lead piece 13, i.e., the X direction. In addition, the fixing pressure section 240 may include a third fixing pressure section 241 and a fourth fixing pressure section 242 disposed in the direction perpendicular to the direction of protrusion of the lead piece 13, i.e., the Y direction.

[0115] The fixed pressure section 240 can be made of an elastic material to apply pressure to the battery cell 10 while minimizing the impact on the battery cell 10. For example, the fixed pressure section 240 can be a tension spring.

[0116] The fixed pressure section 240 can apply pressure to one side of the battery cell 10, thereby moving the battery cell 10 toward the vertical fixing section 220 and the horizontal fixing section 230.

[0117] On the other hand, the first alignment portion 100 and the second alignment portion 200 can be the same. The first alignment portion 100 and the second alignment portion 200 can be provided independently or can be provided as the same device.

[0118] When the first alignment portion 100 and the second alignment portion 200 are set to be the same, the alignment region 110 will represent the same region as the fixed region 210. In addition, the alignment pressure portion 140 will refer to the same object as the fixed pressure portion 240.

[0119] Figure 11 A main cutting section 400 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0120] Reference Figure 11 After the battery cell 10 is installed on the fixed area 210, the second area 123 can be cut.

[0121] According to the battery system disclosed herein, the main cutting section 400 can cut the second region 123. The main cutting section 400 may include a second cutting member 540. The second cutting member 540 can cut the predetermined second region 123 of the battery cell 10. Thus, the length of the cutting lead piece 12 can be formed according to specifications.

[0122] For example, the length from the stop 14 to one end of the cut lead sheet 13 can be preset to 1mm to 3mm. According to the set length, the second cutting member 540 can apply pressure to the cut lead sheet 12 in the Z direction.

[0123] On the other hand, the second cutting member 540 can cut the cutting lead sheet 12 in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the lead sheet 13 protrudes. The first cutting member 530 cuts the first region 121 to form a cut portion 310. At this time, the second cutting member 540 can cut from one region of one cut portion 310 to one region of another cut portion 310.

[0124] Figure 12 A method for manufacturing a battery cell 10 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0125] Reference Figure 12 In the cell 10 manufacturing method according to this disclosure, the bending step SB can be performed between the second alignment step S31 and the second cutting step S32. That is, the cut portion 310 can be formed before the stop portion 14 is formed. This is to improve the manufacturing precision of the lead sheet 13.

[0126] The manufacturing method disclosed herein may further include a measurement step S40 for measuring the shape of the lead sheet 13. Measurement step S40 may be performed after the main cutting step S30. Measurement step S40 may be performed by a measurement unit 700. The measurement unit 700 can confirm the error from the preset specifications by measuring the length and thickness of the lead sheet 13. For example, the measurement unit 700 may be a vision device or camera that performs measurements by taking pictures.

[0127] When the error from the specifications exceeds a set value, cell 10 can be recycled. This removes defective cells 10, thereby improving the accuracy and production efficiency of battery module manufacturing.

[0128] Furthermore, the manufacturing method disclosed herein may further include a conveying step S20 for conveying the battery cell 10. The conveying step S20 may be performed between the pre-cutting step S10 and the main cutting step S30. For example, after the lead sheet 12 for cutting is cut by the pre-cutting section 300 to form the cut portion 310, the battery cell 10 may be conveyed to perform the main cutting step S30.

[0129] The conveying step S20 can be performed by the conveying unit 600. The conveying unit 600 may include a conveying member (not shown) capable of providing support. For example, the battery cell 10 can be supported by placing it on the upper surface of the conveying member.

[0130] An alignment area 110 and a fixing area 210 may be provided on the conveying component. In addition, a vertical alignment part 120, a horizontal alignment part 130, a vertical fixing part, and a horizontal fixing part 230 may be provided on the conveying component.

[0131] The conveying unit 600 can repeatedly run and stop at preset intervals. For example, the conveying unit 600 may include a pitch conveyor. This can improve the efficiency of the process.

[0132] Specifically, multiple battery cells 10 can be mounted on the pitch conveyor and moved in one direction to perform various steps. One battery cell 10 can perform the pre-cutting step S10 through the pre-cutting section 300, and another battery cell 10 can perform the main cutting step S30 through the main cutting section 400. At this time, if the pitch conveyor moves according to the time of the step with the longest time consumption, the steps can be performed simultaneously in different spaces.

[0133] The battery cell manufacturing system 1000 disclosed herein may further include a control unit 800. The control unit 800 can control each component individually. For example, the control unit 800 can control the first alignment unit 100 to position the battery cell 10 in a preset alignment region 110.

[0134] According to the embodiment, an independent control unit is provided for each component, and a general control unit can be provided to control the independent control units. In this case, the user can control the cell manufacturing system 1000 of this disclosure by controlling the general control unit.

[0135] The following is a description of various aspects of this disclosure.

[0136] First aspect: According to one aspect of this disclosure, there is a method for manufacturing a battery cell, the battery cell comprising: an outer casing material, an inner housing of an electrode assembly; and a lead sheet electrically connecting the electrode assembly to an external source and including a stop portion protruding to one side, the method comprising: a pre-cutting step of cutting a first region located at one end of a cutting lead sheet, the cutting lead sheet being connected to the electrode assembly and protruding outward from the outer casing material; and a main cutting step of cutting a second region on the cutting lead sheet disposed at a predetermined distance from the stop portion to form the lead sheet.

[0137] Second aspect: According to the first aspect, the cell manufacturing method may further include: a bending step, applying pressure in one direction to the bending area of ​​the cutting lead sheet to form a stop portion with a curved surface.

[0138] Third aspect: According to the first and second aspects, the cell manufacturing method may further include: a measurement step of measuring the shape of the lead sheet.

[0139] Fourth aspect: According to any one of the first to third aspects, the cell manufacturing method may further include: a conveying step, in which the cell is disposed on the upper surface of a conveying member to convey the cell.

[0140] Fifth aspect: According to any one of the first to fourth aspects, the pre-cutting step may include: a first alignment step, moving the battery cell so that the battery cell is located in a preset alignment area; and a first cutting step, cutting the first area.

[0141] Sixth aspect: According to the fifth aspect, in the first alignment step, pressure can be applied to one side of the battery cell where the cutting lead is provided, so that the battery cell is oriented toward a vertical alignment portion located on one side of the alignment area, and pressure can be applied to the other side of the battery cell that is perpendicular to the first side, so that the battery cell is oriented toward a horizontal alignment portion located on the other side of the alignment area and perpendicular to the vertical alignment portion.

[0142] Seventh aspect: According to the fifth or sixth aspect, the bending step can be performed between the first alignment step and the first cutting step.

[0143] Eighth aspect: According to any one of the second to seventh aspects, in the bending step, the support portion and the pressure portion can respectively apply pressure to one side and the other side of the bending region, the support portion including a protrusion protruding from the region, and the pressure portion including a recess formed in a shape corresponding to the protrusion.

[0144] Ninth aspect: According to any one of the second to eighth aspects, the bending region may be formed in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the lead sheet protrudes.

[0145] Tenth aspect: According to the eighth or ninth aspect, in the pre-cutting step, when the support and the pressure-applying part apply pressure to the bending region, the first cutting component can cut the first region.

[0146] Eleventh aspect: According to any one of the fifth to tenth aspects, in the first cutting step, a plurality of cuts may be formed at one end of the cutting lead piece.

[0147] Twelfth aspect: According to the eleventh aspect, the cut may be formed along one edge of the cutting lead piece, a region of the one edge and a region of another edge perpendicular to the one edge.

[0148] Thirteenth aspect: According to the eleventh or twelfth aspect, the main cutting step may include: a second alignment step, moving the battery cell so that the battery cell is located in a preset fixed area; and a second cutting step, cutting the second area.

[0149] Fourteenth aspect: According to the thirteenth aspect, in the second alignment step, pressure can be applied to one side of the battery cell where the cutting lead is provided, so that the battery cell faces the vertical fixing part located on one side of the fixing area, and pressure can be applied to the other side of the battery cell that is perpendicular to the one side, so that the battery cell faces the horizontal fixing part located on the other side of the fixing area and perpendicular to the vertical fixing part.

[0150] Fifteenth aspect: According to the thirteenth or fourteenth aspect, the bending step may be performed between the second alignment step and the second cutting step.

[0151] Sixteenth aspect: According to any one of aspects thirteen to fifteen, in the second cutting step, it is possible to cut from one region of one cut portion to another region of another cut portion in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the lead sheet protrudes.

[0152] Seventeenth aspect: According to any one of aspects four to sixteen, the conveying unit can repeatedly run and stop at preset intervals.

[0153] Eighteenth aspect: According to one aspect of this disclosure, a battery cell manufacturing system may be provided, comprising: a first alignment portion and a second alignment portion for moving a battery cell to a predetermined battery cell region, the battery cell comprising: an outer casing material and an internally accommodating electrode assembly; and a lead sheet for electrically connecting the electrode assembly to an external source; a pre-cutting portion for cutting a first region located on a cutting lead sheet, the cutting lead sheet being connected to the electrode assembly and electrically connecting the electrode assembly to an external source; a bending portion for applying pressure in one direction to a bending region located on the cutting lead sheet to form a "U"-shaped stop portion; and a main cutting portion for cutting a second region of the lead sheet spaced at a predetermined distance from the stop portion.

[0154] Nineteenth aspect: According to the eighteenth aspect, the cell manufacturing system may further include: a measuring unit for measuring the shape of the lead sheet.

[0155] Twentieth aspect: According to the eighteenth or nineteenth aspect, the cell manufacturing system may further include: a conveying unit for conveying the cell.

[0156] This disclosure can be implemented in various variations, and its scope is not limited to the embodiments described above. Therefore, if a modified embodiment includes components within the scope of the claims of this disclosure, it should be considered to fall within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing a battery cell, the battery cell comprising: External materials, internally housing electrode components; The method includes: a lead sheet for electrically connecting the electrode assembly to an external source and a stop portion protruding to one side; and a lead sheet for electrically connecting the electrode assembly to an external source and a stop portion protruding to one side. The pre-cutting step involves cutting a first region located at one end of a cutting lead piece, which is connected to the electrode assembly and protrudes outward from the outer casing material. as well as The main cutting step involves cutting a second region on the cutting lead sheet that is spaced at a preset distance from the stop portion to form the lead sheet.

2. The cell manufacturing method according to claim 1, further comprising: In the bending step, pressure is applied to the bending area of ​​the cutting lead sheet in one direction to form a stop with a curved surface.

3. The cell manufacturing method according to claim 1, further comprising: The measurement step involves measuring the shape of the lead sheet.

4. The cell manufacturing method according to claim 1, further comprising: In the conveying step, the battery cell is placed on the upper surface of the conveying component to convey the battery cell.

5. The cell manufacturing method according to claim 2, wherein, The pre-cutting step includes: The first alignment step involves moving the battery cell to position it within a preset alignment area; and The first cutting step is to cut the first region.

6. The cell manufacturing method according to claim 5, wherein, In the first alignment step Pressure is applied to one side of the battery cell where the cutting lead is provided, so that the battery cell faces the vertical alignment portion located on one side of the alignment area, and pressure is applied to the other side of the battery cell that is perpendicular to the first side, so that the battery cell faces the horizontal alignment portion located on the other side of the alignment area and perpendicular to the vertical alignment portion.

7. The cell manufacturing method according to claim 5, wherein, The bending step is performed between the first alignment step and the first cutting step.

8. The cell manufacturing method according to claim 2, wherein, In the bending step, One side and the other side of the curved area are pressurized by a support portion and a pressure portion, respectively. The support portion includes a protruding portion, and the pressure portion includes a recessed portion formed in a shape corresponding to the protruding portion.

9. The cell manufacturing method according to claim 2, wherein, The curved region is formed in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the lead sheet protrudes.

10. The cell manufacturing method according to claim 8, wherein, In the pre-cutting step, When the support and the pressurizing part apply pressure to the bending area, the first cutting part cuts the first area.

11. The cell manufacturing method according to claim 5, wherein, In the first cutting step Multiple cuts are formed at one end of the cutting lead sheet.

12. The cell manufacturing method according to claim 11, wherein, The cut is formed along one edge of the cutting lead sheet, a region of the one edge, and a region of another edge perpendicular to the one edge.

13. The cell manufacturing method according to claim 11, wherein, The main cutting step includes: The second alignment step involves moving the battery cell to position it within a predetermined fixed area; and The second cutting step involves cutting the second region.

14. The cell manufacturing method according to claim 13, wherein, In the second alignment step, Pressure is applied to one side of the battery cell where the cutting lead is provided, so that the battery cell faces the vertical fixing part located on one side of the fixing area, and pressure is applied to the other side of the battery cell that is perpendicular to the first side, so that the battery cell faces the horizontal fixing part located on the other side of the fixing area and perpendicular to the vertical fixing part.

15. The cell manufacturing method according to claim 14, wherein, The bending step is performed between the second alignment step and the second cutting step.

16. The cell manufacturing method according to claim 14, wherein, In the second cutting step, Cut from one region of one cutout to another region of another cutout along a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the lead sheet protrudes.

17. The cell manufacturing method according to claim 4, wherein, The conveying unit repeatedly runs and stops at preset intervals.

18. A battery cell manufacturing system, comprising: First alignment portion and second alignment portion, move the battery cell so that the battery cell is located in a preset battery cell area, the battery cell includes: outer material, internally accommodating electrode assembly; and lead wires to electrically connect the electrode assembly to the outside; The pre-cutting section cuts the first area of ​​the cutting lead sheet, which is connected to the electrode assembly, and electrically connects the electrode assembly to the outside. A bending portion, applying pressure in one direction to the bending area of ​​the cutting lead sheet to form a "U"-shaped stop; and The main cutting section cuts the second region of the lead sheet that is separated from the stop section by a predetermined distance.

19. The cell manufacturing system according to claim 18, further comprising: The measuring unit measures the shape of the lead sheet.

20. The cell manufacturing system according to claim 18, further comprising: The conveying section conveys the battery cells.

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