Method for disassembling an electrical storage device and cutting device

Abstract

This invention relates to a method for dismantling an energy storage device and a cutting device. When cutting an energy storage device, poor cutting performance by a band saw blade can be eliminated. The dismantling method disclosed herein includes a cutting step (S1), a heating step (S3), and a removal step (S4). In one embodiment, in the cutting step (S1), the casing is cut using a band saw blade made of a material with a melting point higher than that of the material constituting the battery casing. In the heating step (S3), the band saw blade is heated to a temperature higher than the melting point of the material constituting the casing but lower than the melting point of the material constituting the band saw blade. Then, in the removal step (S4), an external force is applied to the band saw blade, which was heated in the heating step, to remove the chips adhering to the band saw blade.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a method for disassembling energy storage devices and a disconnection device. Background Technology

[0002] In this specification, "energy storage device" refers to a device capable of charging and discharging. Energy storage devices include primary batteries, secondary batteries (e.g., non-aqueous electrolyte secondary batteries such as lithium-ion secondary batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries), and capacitors (physical batteries) such as double-layer capacitors.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-073375 discloses a method for recycling lithium-ion secondary batteries. The method disclosed herein includes the following steps.

[0004] (1) The steps for discharging a lithium-ion battery;

[0005] (2) The step of breaking a lithium-ion battery into small pieces to provide a mixture of a structural part, a first conductive metal part covered by a cathode layer and a second conductive metal part covered by an anode layer;

[0006] (3) The step of immersing small fragments of a broken lithium-ion battery in a polar solvent to form a mixture of dissimilar components;

[0007] (4) The step of using a mixer to treat the mixture of dissimilar components by mechanical stirring for about 5 minutes to about 5 hours, so that the adhesive material is dissolved in the cathode layer and the anode layer;

[0008] (5) The step of sieving the processed mixture of dissimilar components to separate the structural portion, the first conductive metal portion, and the second conductive metal portion from the finer electrode material containing the cathode and anode materials, in order to provide a suspension composed of a polar solvent and the finer electrode material; and

[0009] (6) The step of separating the finer electrode material from the suspension in the polar solvent.

[0010] Existing technical documents

[0011] Patent documents

[0012] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-073375 Summary of the Invention

[0013] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0014] However, the inventors considered improving the recycling rate of materials used in energy storage devices. From this perspective, the inventors investigated recycling based on classifying the energy storage devices by individual components. Specifically, the inventors considered using a band saw blade to cut the energy storage devices. However, it is known that when cutting energy storage devices with a band saw blade, the sharpness gradually deteriorates, potentially leading to poor cuts.

[0015] Methods for solving problems

[0016] The method for dismantling the energy storage device disclosed herein includes a cutting process, a heating process, and a removal process. In the cutting process, the casing is cut using a band saw blade made of a material with a melting point higher than that of the material constituting the casing of the energy storage device. In the heating process, the band saw blade is heated to a temperature higher than the melting point of the material constituting the casing but lower than the melting point of the material constituting the band saw blade. In the removal process, an external force is applied to the band saw blade after it has been heated in the heating process to remove the chips adhering to the band saw blade. This structure eliminates poor cutting performance caused by the band saw blade.

[0017] The disclosed cutting device for a storage device includes a worktable, a fixing member, a band saw blade, a drive mechanism, a heating device, and a chip removal mechanism. A storage device with a housing is placed on the worktable. The fixing member secures the storage device placed on the worktable. The band saw blade is made of a material with a higher melting point than the material constituting the housing. The drive mechanism drives the band saw blade. The heating device heats the band saw blade. The chip removal mechanism applies external force to the band saw blade to remove chips adhering to it. According to this cutting device for a storage device, a suitable method for dismantling the storage device can be implemented. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for disassembling a battery according to one embodiment.

[0019] Figure 2 This is a perspective view schematically showing a battery as the object to be cut off in one embodiment.

[0020] Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 A schematic longitudinal section view of line III-III.

[0021] Figure 4 This is a first schematic diagram illustrating a battery disconnection device according to one embodiment.

[0022] Figure 5 This is a second schematic diagram showing a battery disconnection device according to one embodiment.

[0023] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing the state of a battery before it is cut off, according to one embodiment.

[0024] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the shape of a battery after it has been cut off, according to one embodiment.

[0025] Figure 8A This is a first schematic diagram illustrating the battery removal process of one embodiment.

[0026] Figure 8B This is a second schematic diagram illustrating the battery removal process of one embodiment.

[0027] Figure 8C This is a third schematic diagram illustrating the battery removal process of one embodiment.

[0028] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0029] 1 Battery

[0030] Cut pieces of batteries 1A and 1B

[0031] 2. Shell

[0032] 2a Bottom surface

[0033] 2b, 2c First sidewall

[0034] 2d, 2e Second sidewalls

[0035] 2f top surface

[0036] 3 Positive extremes

[0037] 4 Positive current collector

[0038] 5 Positive electrode tabs

[0039] 6 Negative extremes

[0040] 7 Negative current collector

[0041] 8 Negative electrode tabs

[0042] 9 Electrode bodies

[0043] 10. Frame

[0044] 10A Upper Containment Department

[0045] 10B Intermediate Containment Section

[0046] 10C Lower Containment Section

[0047] 12 Cover section

[0048] 20 workbenches

[0049] 21a, 21b Wide format

[0050] 22 Pedestal part

[0051] 22A First Seat Section

[0052] 22B Second Stand

[0053] 23 gap

[0054] 30, 32, 34 Fasteners

[0055] 40 band saw blade

[0056] 42 Serrated tips

[0057] 50 Drive mechanism

[0058] 52 Drive unit

[0059] 54 Power transmission components

[0060] 60 Heating device

[0061] 70 First saw wheel

[0062] 70A First Rotating Axis

[0063] 72 Second saw wheel

[0064] 72A Second Rotating Shaft

[0065] 80 Chip Removal Mechanism

[0066] 90 Blowing device

[0067] 92 Control device

[0068] 100 Cut-off device

[0069] 110 brush

[0070] 120 chips

[0071] P is the cut-off point. Detailed Implementation

[0072] Hereinafter, several embodiments of the technology disclosed herein will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, components and parts that perform the same function are appropriately labeled with the same reference numerals. Furthermore, the dimensional relationships (length, width, thickness, etc.) in the drawings do not reflect actual dimensional relationships. It should be noted that matters necessary for implementing the technology disclosed herein, other than those specifically mentioned in this specification (e.g., the general structure and manufacturing process of energy storage devices not characterized by this disclosure), can be understood as design matters by those skilled in the art based on prior art. The technology disclosed herein can be implemented based on the content disclosed in this specification and common technical knowledge in the field. Furthermore, the following description is not intended to limit this disclosure to the following methods. Hereinafter, a lithium-ion secondary battery (hereinafter referred to as "battery") as one embodiment of the energy storage device disclosed herein will be described as an example. It should be noted that the following description is not intended to limit the energy storage device to lithium-ion secondary batteries.

[0073] In this specification, the term "A~B" indicates a range that is "above A and below B". Additionally, "A~B" includes both "above A" and "less than B".

[0074] In the following description, "battery disconnection device" will sometimes be abbreviated as "disconnection device". Additionally, "battery disassembly method" will sometimes be abbreviated as "disassembly method". Furthermore, the term "cubic prism" as used below can include both cuboids and approximately cuboids with rounded corners. Similarly, the term "rectangle" as used below can include both rectangles and approximately rectangles with rounded corners.

[0075] The reference numerals X, Y, and Z in the figure refer to the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction, respectively. However, these directions are determined for ease of explanation. The arrangement of the cutting device 100 is not limited by these directions.

[0076] Here, Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for disassembling battery 1 according to one embodiment. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the dismantling method of battery 1 in this embodiment includes a cutting process S1, a heating process S3, and a removal process S4. Figure 2 This is a perspective view schematically showing a battery 1, which is the object to be cut, according to one embodiment. Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 A schematic longitudinal section view of line III-III.

[0077] Here, as Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 As shown, in this embodiment, the battery 1, which is to be cut off, includes a casing 2, a positive terminal 3, a negative terminal 6, an electrode body 9, and an electrolyte (not shown).

[0078] <Shell 2>

[0079] The casing 2 is an external component of the battery 1. Electrodes 9 and an electrolyte are housed within the casing 2. A positive terminal 3 and a negative terminal 6 are also mounted on the casing 2. In this embodiment, the casing 2 is a flat cuboid. The casing 2 has a bottom surface 2a, a pair of first sidewalls 2b and 2c, a pair of second sidewalls 2d and 2e, and a top surface 2f. The bottom surface 2a is rectangular and faces the top surface 2f. The pair of first sidewalls 2b and 2c are wide rectangular surfaces facing each other. The pair of second sidewalls 2d and 2e are narrow rectangular surfaces facing each other. The area of ​​the first sidewalls 2b and 2c is larger than the area of ​​the second sidewalls 2d and 2e. The casing 2 is preferably made of metal. Examples of such metal materials include aluminum, aluminum alloys, and stainless steel (SUS). Among these, aluminum or aluminum alloys are particularly preferred as the metal material.

[0080] <Positive extreme 3, Negative extreme 6>

[0081] exist Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 In the configuration shown, the positive terminal 3 and the negative terminal 6 are disposed on the top surface 2f of the housing 2. The positive terminal 3 is connected to the electrode body 9 via the positive current collector 4. Here, the positive terminal 3 is preferably made of metal, more preferably aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The positive current collector 4 may also be made of a conductive metal such as aluminum, aluminum alloy, nickel, or stainless steel. The negative terminal 6 is connected to the electrode body 9 via the negative current collector 7. Here, the negative terminal 6 is preferably made of metal, more preferably copper or a copper alloy. The negative current collector 7 may also be made of a conductive metal such as copper, copper alloy, nickel, or stainless steel.

[0082] <Electrode 9>

[0083] The electrode body 9 has, for example, a positive electrode (positive electrode plate) as a positive electrode element, a negative electrode (negative electrode plate) as a negative electrode element, and a separator disposed between the positive and negative electrodes. Here, the electrode body 9 is a flat cuboid. The type of electrode body 9 is not particularly limited; for example, it can be a stacked electrode body or a wound electrode body. Figure 3 In the manner shown, the electrode body 9 has one end in the long side direction ( Figure 3 The left end of the device has a positive electrode tab assembly 5 consisting of multiple positive electrode tabs stacked on top of each other. The positive electrode tab assembly 5 is electrically connected to the positive terminal 3 via the positive current collector 4. Here, the positive electrode tab is part of the positive current collector and is made of metal foil (aluminum foil). Additionally, in... Figure 3 In the manner shown, the electrode body 9 has one end in the long side direction ( Figure 3The negative electrode tab assembly 8, consisting of multiple negative electrode tabs stacked at its right end, is electrically connected to the negative terminal 6 via the negative current collector 7. Here, the negative electrode tab is part of the negative current collector and is made of metal foil (copper foil). It should be noted that the components of the positive terminal 3, positive current collector 4, negative terminal 6, negative current collector 7, electrode body 9, electrolyte, etc., can be made of any components that can be used in this type of battery 1 without particular limitation.

[0084] <Cutting device 100>

[0085] Next, the cutting device 100 for cutting off the battery 1, which is the storage device, will be described.

[0086] Figure 4 This is a side view of the cutting device 100. Additionally, Figure 5 This is a second schematic diagram showing a cutting device 100 for a battery 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 5 This is the front view of the cutting device 100. Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing the state of battery 1 before it is cut off according to one embodiment. Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the cut-off state of battery 1 according to one embodiment.

[0087] like Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 As shown, the cutting device 100 includes a worktable 20, fixing members 30, 32, and 34, a band saw blade 40, a drive mechanism 50, and a heating device 60. The cutting device 100 may be, for example, a contour saw machine or a band saw. The components will be described below. In this embodiment, each component of the cutting device 100 is arranged in a frame 10. The frame 10 has an upper receiving portion 10A, a middle receiving portion 10B, and a lower receiving portion 10C.

[0088] <Containment Departments 10A, 10B, 10C>

[0089] like Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 As shown, in this embodiment, the cutting device 100 has a frame 10 for housing the elements required for cutting the battery 1. Figure 4In the illustrated configuration, the frame 10 has three housing sections: an upper housing section 10A, a middle housing section 10B, and a lower housing section 10C. The upper housing section 10A and the lower housing section 10C are connected by the middle housing section 10B. Each housing section is rectangular in shape. In this embodiment, the upper housing section 10A houses the second saw wheel 72 (described later). The lower housing section 10C houses the first saw wheel 70 (described later). The middle housing section 10B houses a portion of the band saw blade 40, which is mounted on the first saw wheel 70 and the second saw wheel 72. The material constituting each housing section is not particularly limited, but metal is preferred. Examples of such metal materials include aluminum, aluminum alloy, and stainless steel (SUS). It should be noted that the materials constituting each housing section can be the same or different. Furthermore, the size of each housing section can be appropriately set according to the size of the first saw wheel 70, the second saw wheel 72, and the band saw blade 40, as well as the configuration environment of the cutting device 100.

[0090] <Workbench 20>

[0091] The worktable 20 is a component that holds the battery 1, which has a housing 2. For example... Figure 6 As shown, in this embodiment, the worktable 20 is a rectangular plate-shaped component (plate). The worktable 20 has a pair of rectangular wide surfaces 21a and 21b. Here, the worktable 20 is placed on a pedestal portion 22 disposed on the lower receiving portion 10C. Figure 6 as well as Figure 7As shown, in this embodiment, the worktable 20 is configured to move in the second direction Y via the base portion 22. In this embodiment, the worktable 20, fixed to the base portion 22, moves in the second direction Y via the base portion 22. Here, the base portion 22 has a first base portion 22A and a second base portion 22B. In this embodiment, the first base portion 22A and the second base portion 22B are rectangular plate-shaped members (plates). Here, the first base portion 22A is a member that moves the battery 1 fixed to the worktable 20. The second base portion 22B is a member that receives the cut piece 1A of the battery obtained after the battery 1 has been cut. A gap 23 exists between the first base portion 22A and the second base portion 22B. The gap 23 is provided so that the base portion 22 can move in the second direction Y even when the band saw blade 40 described later is present. The movement of the base portion 22 can be performed manually or by a motor or the like. The materials used to construct the worktable 20 and the base 22 are not particularly limited, but metal is preferred. Examples of such metal materials include aluminum, aluminum alloy, and stainless steel (SUS). It should be noted that the size of the worktable 20 is only required to accommodate the battery 1 to be cut, and can be appropriately set according to the size of the battery 1, etc. Similarly, the size of the base 22 is only required to accommodate the worktable 20, and can be appropriately set according to the size of the worktable 20, etc.

[0092] <Fasteners 30, 32, 34>

[0093] Fixtures 30, 32, and 34 are components used to secure the battery 1, which is placed on the worktable 20. For example... Figure 6 As shown, in this embodiment, the fasteners 30, 32, and 34 are U-shaped. Fasteners 30 and 32 are mounted on the worktable 20 to fix the bottom surface 2a and top surface 2f of the housing 2. Fastener 34 is mounted on the worktable 20 to fix the second side wall 2e of the housing 2. Each fastener is configured such that the distance between its two ends can be adjusted according to the size of the battery 1. The material of each fastener is not particularly limited, but metal is preferred. Examples of metal materials for each fastener include aluminum, aluminum alloy, and stainless steel (SUS). It should be noted that the materials of each fastener can be the same or different. Furthermore, the sizes of each fastener can be the same or different. The size of each fastener is only required to fix the size of the battery 1, which is to be cut, and can be appropriately set according to the size of the battery 1, etc.

[0094] <Band saw blade 40>

[0095] Band saw blade 40 is the component used to cut battery 1. Band saw blade 40 is a strip-shaped saw blade. For example... Figure 4As shown, in this embodiment, the band saw blade 40, when disposed in the cutting device 100, extends in the direction (third direction Z) along the cutting position P of the battery 1. While not particularly limited, the band saw blade 40 can be configured such that the ratio of its length in the width direction (second direction Y) to its length in the extension direction (third direction Z) is, for example, 1:100 to 1:1000 (preferably 1:200 to 1:500). Figure 4 As shown, in this embodiment, the band saw blade 40 is an annular band saw blade.

[0096] like Figure 5 As shown, in this embodiment, the band saw blade 40 has a plurality of saw teeth 42. Here, the plurality of saw teeth 42 have triangular tips with pointed front ends. Furthermore, the plurality of saw teeth 42 are arranged at predetermined intervals. The plurality of saw teeth 42 may be arranged at least on the side of the band saw blade 40 facing the cutting position P of the battery 1. For example, as... Figure 5 As shown, in this embodiment, a plurality of saw teeth tips 42 are arranged along one side (Y1 side of the second direction Y) of the band saw blade 40 in the width direction. Figure 4 In the manner shown, a portion of the band saw blade 40 is covered by the cover portion 12.

[0097] The material constituting the band saw blade 40 is not particularly limited, but it is preferably made of metal. As such a metal material, it is preferable to use a material with a higher melting point than the material constituting the housing 2. Examples of metal materials include iron, iron alloys, carbon steel, and other steel materials. The metal material constituting the band saw blade 40 is preferably harder than the metal material constituting the housing 2 (in other words, its Vickers hardness HV value is greater). Therefore, the band saw blade 40 is less likely to be damaged when cutting the battery 1. The difference between the Vickers hardness of the metal material constituting the band saw blade 40 and the Vickers hardness of the metal material constituting the housing 2 is, for example, 5 HV or more, preferably 10 HV or more or 20 HV or more, more preferably 30 HV or more or 40 HV or more. The upper limit of this difference in Vickers hardness is, for example, 100 HV or less, and may also be 50 HV or less. This Vickers hardness can, for example, be a value measured based on ISO 6507. It should be noted that the hardness of the band saw blade 40 can be appropriately adjusted according to the hardness of each component of the battery 1 that is being cut. Furthermore, the length and thickness of the band saw blade 40, the number of saw teeth 42 on the band saw blade 40, and their spacing can be appropriately set according to the type and size of the battery 1 to be cut. The band saw blade 40 can be a so-called rotary band saw blade.

[0098] <Drive mechanism 50>

[0099] The drive mechanism 50 is the mechanism that drives the band saw blade 40. Here, the drive mechanism 50 is configured to drive the band saw blade 40 in the direction (third direction Z) along the cutting position P of the battery 1. Figure 4 In the illustrated configuration, the drive mechanism 50 includes a first saw wheel 70, a second saw wheel 72, and a drive device 52. Here, the first saw wheel 70 and the second saw wheel 72 are saw wheels on which the band saw blade 40 is mounted. In this embodiment, the first saw wheel 70 is positioned below the worktable 20. The second saw wheel 72 is positioned above the worktable 20. The first saw wheel 70 and the second saw wheel 72 are aligned vertically across the worktable 20. The first rotation axis 70A of the first saw wheel 70 and the second rotation axis 72A of the second saw wheel 72 are respectively oriented in a predetermined direction parallel to the worktable 20. The drive device 52 is a device for driving the band saw blade 40. In this embodiment, the drive device 52 is configured to drive the first saw wheel 70, which serves as the drive wheel, to rotate. The drive device 52 is, for example, a servo motor, which rotates the first rotation axis 70A via a power transmission member 54. Furthermore, the first saw wheel 70 can be configured to rotate along with the rotation of the first rotation axis 70A. The power transmission member 54 can be, for example, a gear or a belt mechanism. The power transmission component 54 is rectangular in shape. A band saw blade 40 is wound around the first saw wheel 70 and the second saw wheel 72. The second saw wheel 72 rotates driven by the rotation of the first saw wheel 70 while the band saw blade 40 is wound around it.

[0100] Here, the band saw blade 40 is driven by the drive unit 52, thereby traveling along a predetermined annular track defined by the first saw wheel 70 and the second saw wheel 72. The drive unit 52 drives the band saw blade 40 along the predetermined annular track by rotating the first saw wheel 70. In this embodiment, as... Figure 4 As shown, the band saw blade 40 travels along an elliptical path (elliptical track) as follows: it moves up and down through a predetermined cutting position P set on the worktable 20, traces an arc along the first saw wheel 70 and the second saw wheel 72, and returns to the cutting position P. Additionally, the drive unit 52 can direct the band saw blade 40 in the positive direction along arrows S, T, and U (…). Figure 4 The band saw blade 40 can be rotated (counter-clockwise) or in the opposite direction. For example, the saw teeth of the band saw blade 40 can be set to cut the object placed on the worktable 20 when rotating in the forward direction, and not cut the object when rotating in the reverse direction. It should be noted that, here, the band saw blade 40 travels along a circular track.

[0101] <Heating device 60>

[0102] The heating device 60 is a device for heating the band saw blade 40. For example, a device utilizing induction heating (IH) can be used as the heating device 60. Figure 4 As shown, in this embodiment, the heating device 60 is an induction heating coil. Here, the band saw blade 40 is heated by the electromagnetic induction of the induction heating coil. This induction heating coil is connected to a power source (not shown). As described later... Figure 8A As shown, in this embodiment, the band saw blade 40 is positioned directly through the center of the induction heating coil. Furthermore, when current flows through the induction heating coil, a magnetic field is generated around it. This causes current to flow through the band saw blade 40, which is positioned directly through the induction heating coil. For example, since the band saw blade 40, made of a metallic material, has resistance, it heats up. Thus, the band saw blade 40 can be heated by the induction heating coil. When using an induction heating coil as the heating device 60, the band saw blade 40 is preferably made of, for example, steel or the like. Additionally, the casing 2 of the battery 1, which is the object to be cut, is preferably made of, for example, aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0103] The current flowing through the induction heating coil can be appropriately determined based on the materials constituting the band saw blade 40 and the chip 120. In one embodiment, the current flowing through the induction heating coil is, for example, 10A to 100A, preferably set to 20A to 50A. For example, in Figure 4 In the illustrated configuration, the heating device 60 is positioned rearward of the chip removal mechanism 80 in the driving direction of the band saw blade 40 (here, along the directions of arrows S, T, and U). In this embodiment, the heating device 60 is housed in the lower housing 10C. It should be noted that the size of the heating device 60 can be appropriately set according to the size of the cutting device 100, etc. Furthermore, the heating time of the band saw blade 40 by the induction heating coil can be appropriately set according to the shape of the chips 120, etc. For example, conventionally known induction heating coils can be used as the induction heating coil.

[0104] <Chip Removal Mechanism 80>

[0105] The chip removal mechanism 80 is a mechanism that applies external force to the band saw blade 40 to remove chips adhering to the band saw blade 40. For example... Figure 4 As shown, in this embodiment, the chip removal mechanism 80 includes a blowing device 90 and a brush 110. In the chip removal mechanism 80, air is blown onto the band saw blade 40 by the blowing device 90 to remove chips adhering to the band saw blade 40. Additionally, in the chip removal mechanism 80, the brush 110 abuts against the band saw blade 40 to remove chips adhering to the band saw blade 40. Figure 4In the configuration shown, the chip removal mechanism 80 is positioned forward of the heating device 60 in the driving direction of the band saw blade 40 (here, along the directions of arrows S, T, and U). The blowing device 90 and the brush 110 will be described below.

[0106] <Blowing device 90>

[0107] The air supply device 90 is a device that blows air onto the band saw blade 40. For example, the air supply device 90 blows air between the multiple tooth tips 42 of the band saw blade 40. The air supply device 90 is, in this case, a cuboid. Figure 4 In the illustrated configuration, the blowing device 90 is positioned forward of the heating device 60 in the driving direction of the band saw blade 40 (here, along the directions of arrows S, T, and U). In this embodiment, the blowing device 90 is housed in the lower housing 10C. The force and amount of air blown by the blowing device 90 onto the band saw blade 40 can be appropriately set according to the size of the battery 1, etc. For example, a conventionally known blowing device can be used as the blowing device 90.

[0108] <Brush 110>

[0109] exist Figure 4 In the illustrated configuration, the cutting device 100 also includes a brush 110. The brush 110 is a brush that abuts against the band saw blade 40. The brush 110 is rectangular in shape. In this embodiment, the brush 110 is configured to vibrate. The brush 110 may also be connected to a motor, for example. The vibration frequency of the brush 110 can be appropriately set according to the size of the band saw blade 40, etc. In one embodiment, the vibration frequency of the brush 110 can be set to 1Hz to 100Hz, preferably 10Hz to 50Hz. Figure 4 In the illustrated configuration, the brush 110 is positioned forward of the heating device 60 and the blowing device 90 in the driving direction of the band saw blade 40 (here, along the directions of arrows S, T, and U). In this embodiment, the brush 110 is housed in the lower housing 10C. The material constituting the brush 110 is not particularly limited, but chemical fibers are preferred. Examples of such chemical fibers include nylon, polypropylene, vinyl chloride, and polyester. It should be noted that the size of the brush 110 can be appropriately set according to the size of the area on the band saw blade 40 where the brush 110 contacts. Furthermore, the duration of contact between the brush 110 and the band saw blade 40 can be appropriately set according to the shape of the chips 120. For example, conventionally known brushes can be used as the brush 110.

[0110] <Control Device 92>

[0111] Here, the heating device 60, the blowing device 90, and the brush 110 are controlled by the control device 92. The control device 92 controls, for example, the output of the heating device 60 and the timing of the heating of the band saw blade 40 by the heating device 60. Furthermore, the control device 92 controls, for example, the timing of driving the blowing device 90 and the brush 110. It should be noted that the structure of the control device itself is not characteristic of the technology disclosed herein; therefore, a detailed description is omitted.

[0112] The control device 92 can also control the drive mechanism 50 (drive device 52), for example. Specifically, the control device 92 can control the speed at which the drive mechanism 50 drives the band saw blade 40, the driving direction of the band saw blade 40, etc. It should be noted that the speed at which the drive mechanism 50 drives the band saw blade 40, etc., can be appropriately set according to the type and size of the battery 1 that is being cut. In this embodiment, the control device 92 is disposed outside the frame 10.

[0113] The following describes a method for dismantling the battery 1 embodied in the cutting device 100. This description will be provided in conjunction with the description of the cutting device 100. It should be noted that the following description is not intended to limit the method for dismantling the battery 1 disclosed herein to the following structure. The order of the steps described below can be appropriately changed as long as the effects of the disclosed technology are achieved. Furthermore, some steps described below may be omitted as needed. Alternatively, additional steps may be added in addition to the steps described below.

[0114] <Disassembly Method>

[0115] like Figure 1 As shown, the dismantling method of battery 1 in this embodiment includes a cutting step S1, a heating step S3, and a removal step S4. Here, Figure 8A , Figure 8B as well as Figure 8C These are a first schematic diagram, a second schematic diagram, and a third schematic diagram illustrating the removal process S4 of the battery 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating the brushing process S6 according to one embodiment. Each process will be described below.

[0116] First, prepare a battery 1 with a casing 2, which is the object to be cut. The battery 1 prepared above can be exemplified by the battery 1 described above.

[0117] <Cutting process S1>

[0118] In this process, a band saw blade 40 made of a material with a higher melting point than the material constituting the shell 2 is used to cut the shell 2. As described above, in this embodiment, such as Figure 4As shown, the band saw blade 40 is a ring-shaped band saw blade. Specifically, firstly, the prepared battery 1 is placed in a predetermined posture on the worktable 20 of the cutting device 100. Figure 6 As shown, in this embodiment, the battery 1 is placed with one of its first sidewalls 2b and 2c facing the wide surface 21a of one of the wide surfaces 21a and 21b of the worktable 20. Here, the top surface 2f of the housing 2, which has a positive terminal 3 and a negative terminal 6, is configured to face the multiple saw teeth 42 of the band saw blade 40. Next, the placed battery 1 is fixed by fasteners 30, 32, and 34. Then, when cutting the battery 1, the band saw blade 40 is moved along a predetermined annular track (here, along the track indicated by arrows S, T, and U) in a predetermined direction, and the battery 1 is cut at a predetermined cutting position P.

[0119] Here, the cutting position P of battery 1 is not particularly limited as long as it allows for disassembly of battery 1. On the other hand, it is preferable that after disassembly of battery 1, for example, the casing 2, positive terminal 3, negative terminal 6, and electrode body 9 can be easily separated. From this viewpoint, in this embodiment, the cutting position P of battery 1 is set at a position closer to one side X1 in the first direction X without cutting off the main body of the positive terminal 3 and the electrode body 9. Figure 3 As shown, in this embodiment, the band saw blade 40 sequentially passes through the top surface 2f of the housing 2, the positive electrode current collector 4 inside the housing 2, the positive electrode tab group 5, and the bottom surface 2a of the housing 2, thereby cutting off the battery 1. That is, in this embodiment, the band saw blade 40 cuts off the battery 1 along the dotted line Q. As a result, the positive terminal 3 side of the housing 2 of the battery 1 can be cut off.

[0120] like Figure 6 as well as Figure 7 As shown, when cutting the battery 1, the band saw blade 40 is driven, and the worktable 20, on which the battery 1 is placed, is moved in the second direction Y via the base portion 22. In this embodiment, the worktable 20 is moved from one side Y1 in the second direction Y to the other side Y2. After cutting the battery 1, the cut pieces 1A and 1B of the battery 1 can be obtained.

[0121] It should be noted that during the disassembly of battery 1, in order to remove the electrode 9 from the casing 2, it is also necessary to cut off the negative terminal 6 side of the casing 2. Therefore, in this embodiment, battery 1 is further flipped over, and the negative terminal 6 side of the casing 2 is cut off using a band saw blade 40. In this case, the band saw blade 40 passes sequentially through the top surface 2f, the negative current collector 7, the negative electrode tab assembly 8, and the bottom surface 2a of the casing 2. That is, the band saw blade 40 cuts battery 1 along the dotted line R. In this way, the negative terminal 6 side of the casing 2 of battery 1 can be cut off. After this cutting, the electrode 9 is pushed out from the cut opening of the casing 2. Then, the top surface 2f, the positive terminal 3, and the negative terminal 6 of the casing 2 are separated. As described above, battery 1 can be disassembled.

[0122] However, in the case where the band saw blade 40 is used to continuously cut the housing 2 of the energy storage device, the band saw blade 40 continuously cuts the aluminum housing 2. For example... Figure 7 As shown, the inventors discovered the following phenomenon: adhering (sticky) chips 120 remain between the saw tooth tips 42 of the band saw blade 40, gradually reducing the sharpness of the band saw blade 40. The inventors speculate that this phenomenon is caused by the accumulation of fine chips generated during aluminum cutting, which adhere to the saw tooth tips 42 of the band saw blade 40 due to the heat generated during cutting. Therefore, the inventors added the following heating step S3 and removal step S4.

[0123] like Figure 1 As shown, in this embodiment, after the cutting process S1, it is determined whether there are chips 120 attached to the band saw blade 40 (step S2). Then, if there are no chips 120 attached to the band saw blade 40 ("No"), the process returns to the cutting process S1 to continue cutting the battery 1. On the other hand, if there are chips 120 attached to the band saw blade 40 ("Yes"), the process proceeds to the heating process S3.

[0124] <Heating Process S3>

[0125] In this process, the band saw blade 40 is heated to a temperature higher than the melting point of the material constituting the housing 2 and lower than the melting point of the material constituting the band saw blade 40. In other words, in this process, the band saw blade 40 is heated to a temperature higher than the melting point of the chips 120 adhering to the band saw blade 40 and lower than the melting point of the material constituting the band saw blade 40. As described above, in this embodiment, an induction heating coil is used as the heating device 60. Figure 8AAs shown, in this embodiment, the band saw blade 40 is heated by electromagnetic induction using an induction heating coil. For example, if the band saw blade 40 is made of steel, it is suitable as the object to be heated by the induction heating coil. Furthermore, since the chips 120 that may be generated during the cutting of the battery 1 contain a large amount of material from the battery 1's casing 2, the casing 2 is preferably made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy. If the chips 120 contain this metallic material, it is suitable as the object to be heated. Additionally, the heating device 60 can heat the band saw blade 40 at a temperature higher than the melting point of aluminum or aluminum alloy and lower than the melting point of steel (e.g., 670°C to 1500°C).

[0126] like Figure 8A As shown, in this embodiment, the band saw blade 40 is positioned to pass through the exact center of the induction heating coil. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the drive of the band saw blade 40 is stopped, and the saw tooth tips 42 with attached chips 120 are heated by the induction heating coil. This melts the chips 120 attached between the plurality of saw tooth tips 42 of the band saw blade 40.

[0127] <Removal process S4>

[0128] In this process, an external force is applied to the band saw blade 40 after it has been heated in the heating process S3 above, to remove the chips 120 adhering to the band saw blade 40. For example... Figure 8B As shown, in this embodiment, air is blown between the multiple saw teeth 42 of the heated band saw blade 40 as an external force. It should be noted that... Figure 8B The arrow represents air. For example... Figure 8C As shown, in this embodiment, the brush 110 is brought into contact with the plurality of saw teeth 42 of the heated band saw blade 40 as an external force. Figure 8C In the manner shown, the brush 110 is vibrated and brought into contact with the band saw blade 40. Then, the band saw blade 40 is moved in the opposite direction to the predetermined direction (here, along the direction of arrows S, T, U) (here, the direction of the third direction Z1), and the brush 110 is brought into contact with the band saw blade 40. This removes the chips 120 that melted in the heating process S3 described above.

[0129] like Figure 1 As shown, in this embodiment, when the chips 120 attached to the band saw blade 40 are removed by the removal process S4, the process returns to the cutting process S1. It should be noted that the presence or absence of chips 120 attached to the band saw blade 40 can be confirmed, for example, by monitoring with a monitor or the like.

[0130] As described above, the battery 1 dismantling method of this embodiment includes a cutting step S1, a heating step S3, and a removal step S4. Typically, since the cutting of the battery 1 is mostly performed in a dry environment, chips (e.g., aluminum chips) easily adhere to the band saw blade 40. In contrast, in the battery 1 dismantling method of this embodiment, in the cutting step S1, the casing 2 is cut using a band saw blade 40 made of a material with a melting point higher than that of the material constituting the casing 2 of the battery 1. Furthermore, in the heating step S3, the band saw blade 40 is heated to a temperature higher than the melting point of the material constituting the casing 2 but lower than the melting point of the material constituting the band saw blade 40. Thus, in the heating step S3, by heating the band saw blade 40 at such a temperature, the chips 120 from the casing 2 adhering to the band saw blade 40 can be melted. Additionally, since the band saw blade 40 is made of a material with a melting point higher than that of the material constituting the casing 2, damage to the band saw blade 40 can be appropriately prevented even when the chips 120 melt. Next, in the removal step S4, an external force is applied to the band saw blade 40, which has been heated in the heating step S3, to remove the chips 120 attached to the band saw blade 40. This allows for the proper removal of the chips 120 attached to the band saw blade 40 due to the cutting of the battery 1. This eliminates poor cutting by the band saw blade 40. Furthermore, the dismantling of the next battery 1 can be performed continuously without chips 120 on the band saw blade 40. It should be noted that this dismantling method for the battery 1 can be performed, for example, by a cutting device 100 comprising a worktable 20, fixing members 30, 32, and 34, a band saw blade 40, a drive mechanism 50, a heating device 60, and a chip removal mechanism 80.

[0131] As described above, in this embodiment, the casing 2 of the battery 1 is made of aluminum or aluminum alloy, and the band saw blade 40 is made of steel. Based on this combination, the disassembly of the battery 1 can be appropriately performed.

[0132] In this method, the band saw blade 40 is heated by electromagnetic induction using an induction heating coil in the heating process S3 described above. In this embodiment, the heating device 60 is an induction heating coil. For example, when using an induction heating coil as the heating device 60, the band saw blade 40, which is the object to be heated, is preferably made of steel or the like. Furthermore, since the chips 120 that may be generated during the cutting of the battery 1 contain a large amount of material from the battery 1's casing 2, the casing 2 is preferably made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The presence of this metallic material in the chips 120 makes it suitable as the object to be heated. It should be noted that the following advantages can be cited as reasons for using an induction heating coil as the heating device 60. For example, when using a resistance heating device as the heating device 60, current needs to flow directly through the band saw blade 40, which can be difficult to manage. On the other hand, when using an induction heating coil as the heating device 60, the band saw blade 40 can be heated in a non-contact state, making it easier to manage. Additionally, since the temperature of an induction heating coil can be easily adjusted by current, it is preferred. Moreover, for example, when using a burner as the heating device 60, it is easy to generate heat effects on surrounding components. On the other hand, when using an induction heating coil as the heating device 60, the band saw blade 40 is directly heated, thus minimizing the thermal impact on surrounding components.

[0133] As described above, in the removal step S4 of the battery 1 dismantling method of this embodiment, the brush 110 is brought into contact with the band saw blade 40. This allows for more reliable removal of the chips 120 adhering to the band saw blade 40. It should be noted that this battery 1 dismantling method can be performed, for example, by a cutting device 100 that includes the brush 110 in addition to the structure described above. Furthermore, as described above, in this embodiment, the brush 110 is vibrated in the removal step S4. This allows for more reliable removal of the chips 120 adhering to the band saw blade 40. It should be noted that this battery 1 dismantling method can be performed, for example, by a cutting device 100 that includes the vibrating brush 110 in addition to the structure described above.

[0134] As described above, in the battery 1 dismantling method of this embodiment, a ring-shaped band saw blade 40 is used as the band saw blade 40. Furthermore, in the cutting step S1 described above, the band saw blade 40 travels along a predetermined ring-shaped track (here, along the track indicated by arrows S, T, and U) in a predetermined direction, and cuts the battery 1 at a predetermined cutting position P. Thus, by using the ring-shaped band saw blade 40 to cut the battery 1, the battery 1 can be dismantled more efficiently and continuously. It should be noted that this battery 1 dismantling method can be performed, for example, by a cutting device 100 that, in addition to the above-described structure, also includes a first saw wheel 70, a second saw wheel 72, and a drive device 52.

[0135] In this method, during the removal process S4 described above, the band saw blade 40 is moved in the opposite direction to a predetermined direction (here, along the path of arrows S, T, U), and the brush 110 comes into contact with the band saw blade 40. This allows for more reliable removal of the chips 120 adhering to the band saw blade 40.

[0136] As described above, in this embodiment, the chip removal mechanism 80 is positioned forward of the heating device 60 in the driving direction of the band saw blade 40 (here, along the directions of arrows S, T, and U). With this configuration, chips 120 adhering to the band saw blade 40 can be removed.

[0137] As described above, in the removal step S4 of the battery 1 dismantling method of this embodiment, air is blown onto the band saw blade 40. This allows for more reliable removal of the chips 120 adhering to the band saw blade 40. It should be noted that this battery 1 dismantling method can be performed, for example, by a cutting device 100 that includes a blowing device 90 in addition to the structure described above.

[0138] The embodiments of the technology disclosed herein have been described above. However, the above description is merely illustrative and does not limit the scope of protection of the claims. The technology described within the scope of protection of the claims includes technologies obtained by various modifications and alterations to the specific examples illustrated in the above description.

[0139] For example, in the above embodiment, the shape of the casing 2 of the battery 1 is a flat cuboid, but it is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the shape of the casing 2 of the battery 1 can also be cylindrical, laminated, or other various shapes. Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the positive terminal 3 and the negative terminal 6 are disposed on the top surface 2f of the casing 2, but it is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the positive terminal 3 and the negative terminal 6 can also be disposed on one of the second sidewalls 2d and 2e. Alternatively, the positive terminal 3 and the negative terminal 6 can be disposed on the second sidewalls 2d and 2e respectively. For example, in the former case, the position of the battery 1 closest to the second sidewall where the positive terminal 3 and the negative terminal 6 are disposed can be used as the cut-off position.

[0140] In this case, for example, the cutting position can be set such that the band saw blade 40 sequentially passes through the top surface 2f of the housing 2, the positive electrode tab group 5, the negative electrode tab group 8, and the bottom surface 2a of the housing 2. Alternatively, for example, in the latter case, the cutting position can be set such that the band saw blade 40 sequentially passes through the top surface 2f of the housing 2, the positive electrode tab group 5 (or the negative electrode tab group 8), and the bottom surface 2a of the housing 2.

[0141] For example, in the above embodiment, the electrode body 9 has a positive electrode tab group 5 and a negative electrode tab group 8, but is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the electrode body 9 may have a positive electrode active material layer exposed portion and a negative electrode active material layer exposed portion instead of the positive electrode tab group 5 and the negative electrode tab group 8. In this case, when cutting the battery 1, the cutting position can be set such that the band saw blade 40 sequentially passes through the top surface 2f of the housing 2, the positive electrode current collector 4 (or the negative electrode current collector 7), the positive electrode active material layer exposed portion (or the negative electrode active material layer exposed portion), and the bottom surface 2a of the housing 2.

[0142] For example, in the above embodiment, the positive terminal 3 and the negative terminal 6 are configured to face the plurality of saw teeth 42 of the band saw blade 40, but this is not a limitation. The way the battery 1 is placed on the worktable 20 is not particularly limited as long as it achieves the effect of the technology disclosed herein. For example, in other embodiments, the bottom surface 2a of the battery 1, which does not have the positive terminal 3 and the negative terminal 6, may be configured to face the plurality of saw teeth 42 of the band saw blade 40. In this case, when cutting the battery 1, the cutting position can be set such that the band saw blade 40 sequentially passes through the bottom surface 2a of the housing 2, the positive electrode tab group 5 (or the negative electrode tab group 8), the positive electrode current collector 4 (or the negative electrode current collector 7), and the top surface 2f of the housing 2.

[0143] For example, in the above embodiment, the shape of each receiving portion of the cutting device 100 is a cuboid, but it is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the shape of the receiving portion may also be a cylinder, an elliptical cylinder, a polygonal prism, or other various shapes. Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the worktable 20 and the base portion 22 are rectangular plate-like components, but it is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the shape of the worktable 20 and the base portion 22 may also be a flattened cylinder, an elliptical cylinder, or a polygonal prism.

[0144] For example, in the above embodiment, when the battery 1 is disconnected, the worktable 20 on which the battery 1 is placed is moved in the second direction Y by the pedestal portion 22, but it is not limited to this. In other embodiments, when the battery 1 is disconnected, the worktable 20 may be moved only in the second direction Y without going through the pedestal portion 22.

[0145] For example, in the above embodiment, the fasteners 30, 32, and 34 are shaped like a "コ" (ko), but this is not a limitation. In other embodiments, the fasteners can also be various other shapes. Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the number of fasteners is three, but this is not a limitation. In other embodiments, the number of fasteners can be one, two, or four or more.

[0146] For example, in the above embodiment, the band saw blade 40 is a ring-shaped band saw blade, but it is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the band saw blade 40 may be a band saw blade (wire saw) extending in a straight line. For example, when the band saw blade 40 is straight, the battery 1 can be cut by moving the band saw blade 40 back and forth in a straight line. In addition, in the above embodiment, the shape (more specifically, the cross-sectional shape) of the plurality of saw teeth 42 of the band saw blade 40 is a triangle (flat) with a pointed front end, but it is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the shape of the saw teeth 42 may be various shapes such as single-edged, hollow, Scandi, convex, etc. Moreover, in the above embodiment, the plurality of saw teeth 42 are arranged along one side of the width direction of the band saw blade 40, but it is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the plurality of saw teeth 42 may also be arranged along both sides of the width direction of the band saw blade 40.

[0147] For example, in the above embodiment, the band saw blade 40 is configured to drive in a counterclockwise direction, but it is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the band saw blade 40 may also be configured to drive in a clockwise direction.

[0148] For example, in the above embodiment, the positive terminal 3 side and the negative terminal 6 side of the battery 1 are cut off by a band saw blade 40, but it is not limited to this. In other embodiments, two band saw blades 40 may be prepared, each band saw blade 40 cutting off the positive terminal 3 side and the negative terminal 6 side of the battery 1 respectively.

[0149] For example, in the above embodiment, the drive mechanism 50 has two saw wheels: a first saw wheel 70 and a second saw wheel 72, but it is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the drive mechanism 50 may have three or more saw wheels.

[0150] For example, in the above embodiment, the band saw blade 40 irradiated with laser is moved in a direction opposite to the predetermined direction, and the brush 110 comes into contact with the band saw blade 40, but this is not a limitation. In other embodiments, the band saw blade 40 may also be moved in the predetermined direction, and the brush 110 may come into contact with the band saw blade 40.

[0151] For example, in the above embodiment, the power transmission member 54, the blowing device 90, the control device 92, and the brush 110 are rectangular in shape, but are not limited to this. In other embodiments, the blowing device 90, the power transmission member 54, the control device 92, and the brush 110 may also be cylindrical, elliptical, or other various shapes.

[0152] For example, in the above embodiment, the blowing device 90 is positioned forward of the brush 110 in the driving direction of the band saw blade 40 (here, along the directions of arrows S, T, and U), but it is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the blowing device 90 may also be positioned rearward of the brush 110 in the driving direction of the band saw blade 40.

[0153] For example, in the above embodiment, the chip removal mechanism 80 includes a blowing device 90 and a brush 110, but is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the chip removal mechanism 80 may also include only one of the blowing device 90 and the brush 110.

[0154] For example, in the above embodiment, during the heating step S3, the driving of the band saw blade 40 is stopped, and the band saw blade 40 is heated by the heating device 60, but this is not a limitation. In other embodiments, during the heating step S3, the band saw blade 40 may be driven while being heated by the heating device 60.

[0155] For example, in the above embodiment, an induction heating coil is used as the heating device 60, but it is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the heating device 60 may also be a burner, a laser, or a resistance heating device that generates resistance heating by the flow of current.

[0156] Furthermore, the handling of battery 1 can also be performed using a robotic arm. As an example, the operation of flipping battery 1 in the aforementioned cutting process S1 can be performed using a robotic arm.

[0157] As described above, the specific methods of the technology disclosed herein can be exemplified by the methods described in the following items.

[0158] Item 1:

[0159] A method for dismantling an energy storage device, wherein the dismantling method includes:

[0160] The cutting process involves cutting the housing using a band saw blade made of a material with a higher melting point than the material constituting the housing of the energy storage device.

[0161] A heating process in which the band saw blade is heated to a temperature higher than the melting point of the material constituting the housing and lower than the melting point of the material constituting the band saw blade; and

[0162] In the removal process, an external force is applied to the band saw blade that has been heated in the heating process to remove the chips attached to the band saw blade.

[0163] Item 2:

[0164] In the method for dismantling the energy storage device described in item 1

[0165] The shell is made of aluminum or aluminum alloy.

[0166] The band saw blade is made of steel.

[0167] Item 3:

[0168] In the method for disassembling the energy storage device described in item 2

[0169] In the heating process, the band saw blade is heated by using electromagnetic induction of an induction heating coil.

[0170] Item 4:

[0171] In any one of the methods for dismantling the energy storage device described in items 1 to 3

[0172] In the removal process, the brush is brought into contact with the band saw blade.

[0173] Item 5:

[0174] In the method for disassembling the energy storage device described in item 4

[0175] In the removal process, the brush is vibrated.

[0176] Item 6:

[0177] In any one of the methods for dismantling the energy storage device described in items 1 to 5

[0178] The band saw blade is a ring-shaped band saw blade.

[0179] In the cutting process, the band saw blade travels along a predetermined circular track in a predetermined direction and cuts the energy storage device at a predetermined cutting position.

[0180] Item 7:

[0181] In the method for dismantling the energy storage device described in item 6

[0182] In the removal process, the band saw blade is moved in a direction opposite to the predetermined direction, and the brush comes into contact with the band saw blade.

[0183] Item 8:

[0184] In any one of the methods for dismantling the energy storage device described in items 1 to 7

[0185] In the removal process, air is blown onto the band saw blade.

[0186] Item 9:

[0187] A disconnection device for an energy storage device, wherein the disconnection device comprises:

[0188] A workbench on which an energy storage device with a housing is mounted;

[0189] A fastener that secures the energy storage device placed on the workbench;

[0190] Band saw blade, the band saw blade being made of a material with a higher melting point than the material constituting the housing;

[0191] A drive mechanism that drives the band saw blade;

[0192] A heating device that heats the band saw blade; and

[0193] A chip removal mechanism applies external force to the band saw blade to remove chips attached to the band saw blade.

[0194] Item 10:

[0195] In the disconnection device of the energy storage device described in item 9

[0196] In the chip removal mechanism, a brush is brought into contact with the band saw blade to remove chips adhering to the band saw blade.

[0197] Item 11:

[0198] In the disconnection device of the energy storage device described in item 10

[0199] The brush is configured to vibrate.

[0200] Item 12:

[0201] In any one of items 9 to 11, the disconnection device of the energy storage device

[0202] In the chip removal mechanism, air is blown onto the band saw blade to remove chips adhering to the band saw blade.

[0203] Item 13:

[0204] In any one of items 9 to 12, the disconnection device of the energy storage device

[0205] The band saw blade is a ring-shaped band saw blade.

[0206] The drive mechanism includes:

[0207] A first saw wheel, on which the band saw blade is mounted;

[0208] A second saw wheel, on which the band saw blade is mounted; and

[0209] A drive unit that drives the band saw blade along a predetermined annular track by rotating the first saw wheel.

[0210] The predetermined annular track is set to a predetermined cutting position on the worktable.

[0211] Item 14:

[0212] In any one of items 9 to 13, the disconnection device of the energy storage device

[0213] The chip removal mechanism is positioned forward of the heating device in the driving direction of the band saw blade.

[0214] Item 15:

[0215] In any one of items 9 to 14, the disconnection device of the energy storage device

[0216] The band saw blade is made of steel.

[0217] The heating device is an induction heating coil.

Claims

1. A method for disassembling an energy storage device, wherein, The dismantling method includes: The cutting process involves cutting the housing using a band saw blade made of a material with a higher melting point than the material constituting the housing of the energy storage device. A heating process in which the band saw blade is heated to a temperature higher than the melting point of the material constituting the housing and lower than the melting point of the material constituting the band saw blade; and In the removal process, an external force is applied to the band saw blade that has been heated in the heating process to remove the chips attached to the band saw blade.

2. The method for dismantling the energy storage device as described in claim 1, wherein, The shell is made of aluminum or aluminum alloy. The band saw blade is made of steel.

3. The method for dismantling the energy storage device as described in claim 2, wherein, In the heating process, the band saw blade is heated by using electromagnetic induction of an induction heating coil.

4. The method for dismantling the energy storage device as described in claim 1, wherein, In the removal process, the brush is brought into contact with the band saw blade.

5. The method for dismantling the energy storage device as described in claim 4, wherein, In the removal process, the brush is vibrated.

6. The method for dismantling the energy storage device as described in claim 1, wherein, The band saw blade is a ring-shaped band saw blade. In the cutting process, the band saw blade travels along a predetermined circular track in a predetermined direction and cuts the energy storage device at a predetermined cutting position.

7. The method for dismantling the energy storage device as described in claim 6, wherein, In the removal process, the band saw blade is moved in a direction opposite to the predetermined direction, and the brush comes into contact with the band saw blade.

8. The method for dismantling the energy storage device as described in claim 1, wherein, In the removal process, air is blown onto the band saw blade.

9. A disconnection device for an energy storage device, wherein, The cutting device includes: A workbench on which an energy storage device with a housing is mounted; A fastener that secures the energy storage device placed on the workbench; Band saw blade, the band saw blade being made of a material with a higher melting point than the material constituting the housing; A drive mechanism that drives the band saw blade; A heating device that heats the band saw blade; as well as A chip removal mechanism applies external force to the band saw blade to remove chips attached to the band saw blade.

10. The disconnection device for the energy storage device as described in claim 9, wherein, In the chip removal mechanism, a brush is brought into contact with the band saw blade to remove chips adhering to the band saw blade.

11. The disconnection device for the energy storage device as described in claim 10, wherein, The brush is configured to vibrate.

12. The disconnection device for an energy storage device as described in claim 9, wherein, In the chip removal mechanism, air is blown onto the band saw blade to remove chips adhering to the band saw blade.

13. The disconnection device for the energy storage device as described in claim 9, wherein, The band saw blade is a ring-shaped band saw blade. The drive mechanism includes: A first saw wheel, on which the band saw blade is mounted; A second saw wheel, on which the band saw blade is mounted; and A drive unit that drives the band saw blade along a predetermined annular track by rotating the first saw wheel. The predetermined annular track is set to a predetermined cutting position on the worktable.

14. The disconnection device for the energy storage device as described in claim 9, wherein, The chip removal mechanism is positioned forward of the heating device in the driving direction of the band saw blade.

15. The disconnection device for an energy storage device as described in claim 9, wherein, The band saw blade is made of steel. The heating device is an induction heating coil.

Images