Battery sealing device and battery manufacturing system

Abstract

According to one aspect of the invention, a battery sealing device includes: a magnetic core configured to generate a closed-loop magnetic field penetrating a target portion of the battery; an induction coil wound around the magnetic core; and a pressure pad that is elastic and disposed between the magnetic core and the target portion to press the target portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application is based on and claims priority to Korean Patent Application 10-2024-0104718, filed with the Korean Intellectual Property Office on August 6, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] This disclosure relates to battery sealing devices and battery manufacturing systems, and more specifically, to battery sealing devices configured to seal batteries using induction heating methods and battery manufacturing systems including such battery sealing devices. Background Technology

[0003] Generally, a rechargeable battery refers to a battery that can be repeatedly charged and discharged, such as lithium-ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries.

[0004] Recently, as these secondary batteries are used not only in small devices such as mobile phones, tablets, and laptops, but also in larger devices such as electric vehicles and power storage systems (PSS) that require high output voltage and large charging capacity, there is growing interest and demand for battery manufacturing technologies that can increase battery production while improving battery productivity and ensuring the expected performance and safety of the battery.

[0005] Meanwhile, batteries are manufactured through a series of processes that place electrode assemblies, including current collectors and electrolyte materials, into a casing, which is then sealed by pressing and / or heating. Therefore, the sealing quality of a battery is a critical factor determining its yield, performance, and safety.

[0006] However, existing technologies for sealing batteries using strip-shaped sealing tools heated by heaters suffer from low battery productivity due to the long heating and cooling times of the sealing tools, and the use of the sealing tools is difficult to extend due to overheating issues.

[0007] In addition, the problem with the existing technology is that when the sealing target part of the battery has a step or bend, if the corresponding battery is not accurately placed in the designated position, the contact between the entire sealing target part and the sealing tool becomes uneven, resulting in sealing defects, which reduces the battery yield and does not guarantee the battery performance and safety. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Technical issues

[0009] This disclosure aims to address the problems existing in the prior art. Therefore, this disclosure aims to provide a battery sealing device and a battery manufacturing system including such a battery sealing device, which can improve the battery yield, increase battery productivity, and ensure the expected performance and safety of the battery.

[0010] Technical solution

[0011] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a battery sealing device is an apparatus configured to seal the target portion of a battery using an induction heating method while pressing the target portion corresponding to the sealing target, and includes: a magnetic core configured to generate a closed-loop magnetic field penetrating the target portion; an induction coil wound around the magnetic core; and a pressure pad that is elastic, disposed between the magnetic core and the target portion, and configured to press the target portion.

[0012] In one embodiment, the magnetic core may include: a main magnetic core configured to generate a first magnetic field having a predetermined magnetic flux density; and at least one sub-magnetic core disposed adjacent to the main magnetic core and configured to generate a second magnetic field having a lower magnetic flux density than the first magnetic field.

[0013] In one embodiment, the main magnetic core may include a plurality of first metal plates stacked in parallel with each other, and the at least one sub-magnetic core may include a plurality of second metal plates stacked in parallel with each other, and the thickness of each of the plurality of first metal plates may be configured to be thinner than the thickness of each of the plurality of second metal plates.

[0014] In an implementation, the target portion may include a first portion having a relatively long magnetic field penetration distance and a second portion having a relatively short magnetic field penetration distance, the main magnetic core may be disposed at a position corresponding to the first portion, and the at least one sub-magnetic core may be disposed at a position corresponding to the second portion.

[0015] In one embodiment, the main magnetic core and the at least one sub-core may each have a partially broken ring shape, and the main magnetic core may be configured to protrude further than the at least one sub-core in a predetermined direction.

[0016] In one embodiment, the induction coil may include: a first induction coil, which is wound together with the main magnetic core and the at least one sub-magnetic core; and a second induction coil, which is wound only with the main magnetic core.

[0017] In one embodiment, the amplitude of the second alternating current flowing through the second induction coil can be greater than the amplitude of the first alternating current flowing through the first induction coil.

[0018] In one embodiment, the frequency of the second alternating current may be lower than the frequency of the first alternating current.

[0019] In one embodiment, the induction coil may have a tubular shape with a hollow interior.

[0020] In one embodiment, the induction coil may include: an inlet for introducing cooling material into the induction coil; and an outlet for discharging the cooling material introduced into the induction coil to the outside of the induction coil.

[0021] In one embodiment, the battery sealing device may further include an insulating block having insulating properties and surrounding the exterior of the magnetic core and the induction coil.

[0022] In one embodiment, the pressure pad may be disposed on the outer surface of the insulating block.

[0023] In one embodiment, the pressure pad may be made of a material including silicone.

[0024] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a battery manufacturing system includes the aforementioned battery sealing device.

[0025] Beneficial effects

[0026] According to this disclosure, the battery sealing device can be configured to seal the battery by directly heating the target portion while pressing the target portion corresponding to the sealing target, thereby reducing the time and power required for heating and cooling existing sealing tools, thus extending the service life of the battery sealing device and improving battery productivity.

[0027] In addition, an elastic pressure pad is placed between the magnetic core that generates the magnetic field and the target part of the battery to press the target part. Therefore, even if the target part of the battery has a step or bend, or the corresponding battery is not accurately placed in the designated position, the entire target part can be properly pressed to prevent sealing defects. This can lead to improved battery yield and ensure battery performance and safety.

[0028] In addition, the magnetic core that generates the magnetic field may include a main magnetic core configured to generate a magnetic field with a relatively high magnetic flux density and at least one sub-core configured to generate a magnetic field with a relatively low magnetic flux density, thereby enabling uniform sealing even if the target portion of the battery includes relatively thick and relatively thin portions, and further improving the sealing quality of the battery.

[0029] In addition, since the induction coil wound around the magnetic core has a tubular shape with a hollow interior, cooling material can be supplied to the induction coil to effectively cool the induction coil and the magnetic core, which can further extend the continuous use time of the battery sealing device.

[0030] In addition, since the pressure pad is made of a material including silicone with insulating properties, heat loss at the target area can be prevented, and the power required for the sealing process can be reduced.

[0031] Furthermore, those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains will clearly understand from the following description that various embodiments of this disclosure may provide various technical advantages not mentioned above. Attached Figure Description

[0032] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing a battery sealing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view showing an example of a battery that requires a sealing process.

[0034] Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing an example of battery assembly.

[0035] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 The front view of the battery shown.

[0036] Figure 5 This is a perspective view showing the induction heating module of a battery sealing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 The side view of the induction heating module shown.

[0038] Figure 7 This is a perspective view showing an example of a main magnetic core applicable to this disclosure.

[0039] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 The side view of the main magnetic core is shown.

[0040] Figure 9 This is a perspective view showing an example of a sub-core applicable to this disclosure.

[0041] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 The side view of the sub-core shown.

[0042] Figure 11 This is a view showing an example of a first induction coil applicable to this disclosure.

[0043] Figure 12 This is a view showing an example of a second induction coil applicable to this disclosure.

[0044] Figure 13 This is a perspective view showing an induction heating module according to a variant embodiment.

[0045] Figure 14 It is shown Figure 13 The side view of the main magnetic core of the induction heating module shown.

[0046] Figure 15 This is a block diagram illustrating a battery manufacturing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0047] The embodiments according to this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings to clarify the solutions corresponding to the technical problems of this disclosure. However, if the description of prior art would obscure the essential points of this disclosure, it may be omitted. Furthermore, the terminology used in this specification is defined in consideration of the functions described herein and may vary depending on the intent or customization of the designer, manufacturer, etc. Therefore, the definitions of the terminology described below should be based on the content throughout this specification.

[0048] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing a battery sealing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] like Figure 1 As shown, the battery sealing device 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is configured to seal the target portion of the battery 20 using an induction heating method while pressing the target portion corresponding to the sealing target. For example, the target portion of the battery 20 corresponding to the sealing target may be the edge portion of the casing forming the main body of the battery 20.

[0050] For this purpose, the battery sealing device 10 includes an induction heating module 100. As will be described again below, the induction heating module 100 can generate an electric field that penetrates the target portion of the battery 20, thereby generating an induced current in the target portion.

[0051] In one embodiment, the battery sealing device 10 may include an automatic clamp 200 configured to support the induction heating module 100 and move it to a target portion of the battery 20, thereby bringing the induction heating module 100 into contact with the target portion.

[0052] For example, the induction heating module 100 may include an upper module and a lower module that contact a target portion of the battery 20 from opposite sides, with the target portion inserted between them to generate an electric field penetrating the target portion. In this case, the automatic clamp 200 may include a first support 210 and a second support 220, which are coupled to and support the induction heating module 100.

[0053] The first support member 210 may include a first mounting frame 212 and a first stop member 214. The upper module of the induction heating module 100 is mounted on the first mounting frame 212, and the first stop member 214 restricts the movement range of the first mounting frame 212.

[0054] In addition, the second support member 220 may include a second mounting frame 222 and a second stop member 224. The lower module of the induction heating module 100 is mounted on the second mounting frame 222, and the second stop member 224 restricts the range of movement of the second mounting frame 222.

[0055] Additionally, the automated gripper 200 may include a first actuator 230 configured to raise or lower the first support member 210. According to an embodiment, the automated gripper 200 may include a second actuator 240 configured to raise or lower the second support member 220.

[0056] For example, when the battery 20 to be sealed reaches the predetermined position, the first actuator 230 lowers the first support 210 so that the upper module of the induction heating module 100 mounted on the first support 210 makes close contact with the upper surface of the target portion of the battery 20, and the second actuator 240 raises the second support 220 so that the lower module of the induction heating module 100 mounted on the second support 220 makes close contact with the lower surface of the target portion. Then, the upper and lower modules of the induction heating module 100 can seal the target portion of the battery 20 by heating it using an induction heating method while pressing the target portion.

[0057] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view showing an example of a battery that requires a sealing process.

[0058] like Figure 2 As shown, typically, battery 20 may include an electrode assembly 22 provided by stacking positive and negative electrode plates with a separator sandwiched between them, and a housing 28 that houses the electrode assembly 22 together with electrolyte material in an internal space A1.

[0059] Additionally, the battery 20 may also include electrode leads 24 electrically connected to the electrode assembly 22 and a sealing strip 26 sealing the periphery of the electrode leads 24.

[0060] The housing 28 of the battery 20 may include a first housing portion 28a and a second housing portion 28b connected to each other to form an internal space A1. When the electrode assembly 22 and the electrolyte material are housed in the internal space A1 formed between the first housing portion 28a and the second housing portion 28b, the edge portions of the first housing portion 28a and the corresponding edge portions of the second housing portion 28b are hermetically connected to each other, thereby completing the sealing of the battery 20.

[0061] For this purpose, the housing 28 of the battery 20 may have a multi-layer structure. For example, the first housing portion 28a of the housing 28 may include an aluminum sheet that provides rigidity for protecting the electrode assembly 22, an insulating material layer laminated on the outer surface of the aluminum sheet to insulate the aluminum sheet, and an adhesive material layer laminated on the inner surface of the aluminum sheet to connect to the second housing portion 28b.

[0062] For example, the insulating material layer may include insulating materials such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or nylon. Additionally, the adhesive material layer may include heat-sealable materials such as cast polypropylene (CPP) or polypropylene (PP).

[0063] Meanwhile, the second housing portion 28b of the housing 28 may also have the same or similar multi-layer structure as the first housing portion 28a described above.

[0064] Figure 3 The battery 20 shown is a pouch battery or a prismatic battery that requires a sealing process, but the shape or type of battery that can be sealed using this disclosure may vary depending on the implementation.

[0065] Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing an example of battery assembly.

[0066] like Figure 3 As shown, the target portion S of the assembled battery 20 corresponding to the sealing target is the edge portion of the housing 22 that forms the outer body of the battery 20. This target portion S can be divided into a first portion and a second portion, in which electrode leads 24 and sealing strips 26 are inserted between the aluminum sheets forming the housing 22, and in the second portion only the aluminum sheets overlap.

[0067] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 The front view of the battery shown.

[0068] like Figure 4 As shown, the thickness TH1 of the first portion S1 between the aluminum sheet in the target portion S of the battery 20, where the electrode lead 24 and the sealing tape 26 are inserted, is thicker than the thickness TH2 of the second portion S2a and S2b, where only the aluminum sheets overlap. That is, a step is created between the first portion S1 and the second portion S2a and S2b.

[0069] Therefore, it is impossible to simultaneously seal the first part S1 and the second parts S2a and S2b using a simple strip-shaped or flat sealing tool. Furthermore, when using a sealing tool with a groove corresponding to the first part S1 to simultaneously seal the first part S1 and the second parts S2a and S2b, if the battery 20 is not accurately positioned, the contact between the target sealing parts S1, S2a, and S2b of the battery 20 and the sealing tool becomes uneven, leading to sealing defects. This reduces the battery yield and fails to guarantee battery performance and safety.

[0070] Figure 5 This is a perspective view showing the induction heating module of a battery sealing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0071] like Figure 5 As shown, the induction heating module 100 of the battery sealing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a magnetic core 110, an induction coil 120, and a pressure pad 130.

[0072] In one embodiment, the induction heating module 100 may include an upper module 100A and a lower module 100B. In this case, the upper module 100A and the lower module 100B may each include a magnetic core 110, an induction coil 120, and a pressure pad 130.

[0073] The magnetic core 110 is configured to generate a closed-loop magnetic field that penetrates the battery and corresponds to the target portion of the sealed target. The magnetic core 110 can be manufactured by stacking multiple metal plates of the same shape. In this case, the multiple metal plates can be made of various materials. For example, each of the multiple metal plates can be implemented as a silicon steel plate. Additionally, an insulating layer can be inserted between the metal plates.

[0074] In this way, since the magnetic core 110 has a stacked structure, the eddy currents generated in the magnetic core can be reduced, thereby reducing the power consumed by the battery sealing device 10.

[0075] The induction coil 120 is conductive and is wound around the magnetic core 110. When an alternating current passes through the induction coil 120, the direction of the magnetic field generated along the magnetic core 110 changes with the torque, and this magnetic field induces a current in the target part of the battery, thereby directly heating the target part.

[0076] The pressure pad 130 is elastic and is disposed between the magnetic core 110 and the target portion of the battery to press against the target portion. For example, the pressure pad 130 may be made of a material including silicone.

[0077] In this way, the elastic pressure pad 130 is positioned between the magnetic core 110 that generates the magnetic field and the target portion of the battery to press the target portion. Therefore, even if the target portion of the battery has a step or bend or the corresponding battery is not accurately positioned, the entire target portion can be properly pressed to prevent sealing defects. This can lead to improved battery yield and ensure battery performance and safety.

[0078] In addition, since the pressure pad 130 is made of a material including insulating silicon, heat loss generated in the target part can be prevented, and the power required for the sealing process can be reduced.

[0079] In an embodiment, the magnetic core 110 may include a main magnetic core 112 and at least one sub-magnetic core 114.

[0080] The main magnetic core 112 can be configured to generate a first magnetic field with a predetermined magnetic flux density. In this case, the main magnetic core 112 can be configured to generate a first magnetic field with a relatively higher magnetic flux density compared to at least one sub-core 114.

[0081] Additionally, the sub-core 114 may be disposed adjacent to the main core 112 and configured to generate a second magnetic field having a lower magnetic flux density than the first magnetic field generated by the main core 112.

[0082] The magnetic flux density of each of the first and second magnetic fields can be determined by taking into account the material and thickness of the casing, electrode leads, sealing strip, etc., located at the target part of the battery (i.e., the sealed target part).

[0083] For example, the main magnetic core 112 may include a plurality of first metal plates stacked in parallel with each other, and the sub-magnetic core 114 may include a plurality of second metal plates stacked in parallel with each other. Furthermore, the thickness of each of the plurality of first metal plates may be configured to be thinner than the thickness of each of the plurality of second metal plates.

[0084] As mentioned earlier, the target portion of the battery corresponding to the sealing target can be divided into a relatively thick first portion (e.g., Figure 4 S1) and the relatively thin second part (e.g., Figure 4 (S2a and S2b).

[0085] In this case, the main magnetic core 112 can be positioned at a location corresponding to the first part having a relatively long magnetic field penetration distance, and the sub-magnetic core 114 can be positioned at a location corresponding to the second part having a relatively short magnetic field penetration distance.

[0086] In this embodiment, the main magnetic core 112 and the sub-core 114 may each have a partially broken ring shape. For example, as... Figure 5 As shown, the cross-sections of the main magnetic core 112 and the sub-magnetic core 114 parallel to the YZ plane can have an "n" shape or a "U" shape, respectively.

[0087] In this configuration, the main magnetic core 112 can be configured to protrude further than the sub-core 114 in the Z-axis direction, such that a portion of the hollow space surrounding the main magnetic core 112 lies outside the outer surface of the sub-core 114 in the Z-axis direction.

[0088] In one embodiment, the induction coil 120 may include a first induction coil 122 and a second induction coil 124. The first induction coil 122 may be configured to be wound together around the main magnetic core 112 and at least one sub-core 114. The second induction coil 124 may be configured to be wound only around the main magnetic core 112. In this way, since the main magnetic core 112 generates a magnetic field using multiple induction coils 122, 124 wound at different locations, the main magnetic core 112 can generate a magnetic field with a higher magnetic flux density than the magnetic field generated by the sub-core 114.

[0089] In this embodiment, the amplitude of the second alternating current flowing through the second induction coil 124 can be greater than the amplitude of the first alternating current flowing through the first induction coil 122. Therefore, the main magnetic core 112 can easily generate a magnetic field with a higher magnetic flux density than that generated by the sub-core 114.

[0090] In this embodiment, the frequency of the second alternating current flowing through the second induction coil 124 can be lower than the frequency of the first alternating current flowing through the first induction coil 122. Therefore, while reducing the destructive interference between the magnetic fields generated by the first induction coil 122 and the second induction coil 124, the magnetic field generated by the main magnetic core 112 can have greater penetrating power than the magnetic field generated by the sub-magnetic core 114.

[0091] In one embodiment, the induction heating module 100 of the battery sealing device 10 may further include an insulating block 140 with insulating properties, the insulating block 140 surrounding the exterior of the magnetic core 110 and the induction coil 120. For example, the insulating block 140 may be a cast body formed by an insert molding process.

[0092] In this case, the pressure pad 130 can be disposed on the outer surface of the insulating block 140.

[0093] In this way, the insulating block 140 is configured to protect the magnetic core 110 and the induction coil 120 while supplementing their mechanical stiffness, thereby improving the electrical safety of the battery sealing device 10, and even allowing the magnetic core 110 and the induction coil 120 to be manufactured from materials with relatively low stiffness. Furthermore, since the magnetic core 110, the induction coil 120, and the pressure pad 130 are integrated by the insulating block 140, the magnetic core 110, the induction coil 120, and the pressure pad 130 can be easily mounted on the aforementioned automatic clamp 200.

[0094] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 The side view of the induction heating module 100 shown.

[0095] like Figure 6As shown, the upper module 100A and lower module 100B of the induction heating module 100 may each include the aforementioned magnetic core 110, induction coil 120, pressure pad 130 and insulating block 140.

[0096] When the battery is placed at a predetermined position between the upper module 100A and the lower module 100B, the upper module 100A can press down on the target portion of the battery, and the lower module 100B can press up on the target portion of the battery. As described above, the component of the induction heating module 100 that contacts and presses the target portion of the battery is the pressure pad 130.

[0097] In this way, the induction heating module 100 can generate a closed-loop magnetic field that penetrates the target portion by supplying alternating current to the induction coil 120 while pressing the target portion of the battery. This magnetic field induces a current in the target portion, causing the temperature of the target portion to rise, and thus the target portion is thermally melted, thereby achieving a seal.

[0098] Figure 7 This is a perspective view showing an example of a main magnetic core applicable to this disclosure.

[0099] like Figure 7 As shown, the main magnetic core 112 can be manufactured by stacking multiple first metal plates 112a having the same shape. In this case, the multiple first metal plates 112a can be made of various materials. For example, the multiple first metal plates 112a can each be implemented as silicon steel plates. In addition, an insulating layer can be inserted between the first metal plates.

[0100] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 The side view of the main magnetic core 112 shown.

[0101] like Figure 8 As shown, each first metal plate 112a forming the main magnetic core 112 can typically have an "n" shape or a "U" shape.

[0102] Additionally, when the main magnetic core 112 is stacked in parallel with the sub-magnetic core 114, which will be described later, the height of the main magnetic core 112, i.e. the length in the Z-axis direction, can be determined such that a portion of the hollow space surrounded by the main magnetic core 112 can be located outside the outer surface of the sub-magnetic core 114.

[0103] In addition, such as Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the pressure pad 130 can be connected to one end of the main magnetic core 112. Figure 8 In the middle, the pressure pad 130 can be connected to the lower right end of the main magnetic core 112.

[0104] Figure 9 This is a perspective view showing an example of a sub-core applicable to this disclosure.

[0105] like Figure 9 As shown, the sub-core 114 can be manufactured by stacking multiple second metal plates 114a having the same shape. In this case, the multiple second metal plates 114a can be made of various materials. For example, the multiple second metal plates 114a can each be implemented as silicon steel plates. In addition, an insulating layer can be inserted between the second metal plates.

[0106] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 The side view of the sub-core 114 shown.

[0107] like Figure 10 As explained, each of the second metal plates 114a forming the sub-core 114 may generally have an “n” or “U” shape.

[0108] In addition, when the sub-core 114 is stacked in parallel with the main core 112, the height of the sub-core 114, i.e. the length in the Z-axis direction, can be determined so that a portion of the hollow space surrounded by the main core 112 can be located outside the outer surface of the sub-core 114.

[0109] In addition, such as Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the pressure pad 130 can be connected to one end of the sub-core 114. Figure 10 In the middle, the pressure pad 130 can be connected to the lower right end of the sub-core 114.

[0110] Figure 11 This is a view showing an example of a first induction coil applicable to this disclosure.

[0111] like Figure 11 As shown, the first induction coil 122 can be configured to be wound together around the main magnetic core 112 and at least one sub-core 114.

[0112] When current flows through the first induction coil 122, a magnetic field can be generated in the main magnetic core 112 and the at least one magnetic core 110. For this purpose, the first induction coil 122 may include an input terminal 122a for input current and an output terminal 122b for output current.

[0113] In one embodiment, the first induction coil 122 may have a tubular shape with a hollow interior. Because the first induction coil 122 has a tubular shape, cooling material can be supplied to the first induction coil 122, thereby effectively cooling not only the first induction coil 122 but also the magnetic cores 112 and 114, which can thus extend the continuous operating time of the battery sealing device 10.

[0114] In this case, the first induction coil 122 may include an inlet 122c for introducing cooling material into the first induction coil 122 and an outlet 122d for discharging the cooling material introduced into the first induction coil 122 to the outside of the first induction coil 122.

[0115] Figure 12 This is a view showing an example of a second induction coil applicable to this disclosure.

[0116] like Figure 12 As shown, the second induction coil 124 can be configured to wrap only around the main magnetic core 112.

[0117] When current flows through the second induction coil 124, it can strengthen the magnetic field generated by the first induction coil 122 in the main magnetic core 112. For this purpose, the second induction coil 124 may include an input terminal 124a for input current and an output terminal 124b for output current.

[0118] In this way, since the main magnetic core 112 generates a magnetic field with a higher magnetic flux density than the magnetic field generated by the sub-core 114, the main magnetic core 112 can generate a magnetic field by using multiple induction coils 122, 124 wound at different positions to generate a magnetic field.

[0119] In one embodiment, the second induction coil 124 may have a tubular shape with a hollow interior. In this way, because the second induction coil 124 has a tubular shape, cooling material can be supplied to the second induction coil 124, thereby effectively cooling not only the second induction coil 124 but also the main magnetic core 112, which can thus extend the continuous operating time of the battery sealing device 10.

[0120] In this case, the second induction coil 124 may include an inlet 124c for introducing cooling material into the second induction coil 124 and an outlet 124d for discharging the cooling material introduced into the second induction coil 124 to the outside of the second induction coil 124.

[0121] In this embodiment, since both the first induction coil 122 and the second induction coil 124 are implemented in a tubular shape, the cooling effect of the main magnetic core 112 can be enhanced, and the continuous use time of the battery sealing device 10 can be further extended.

[0122] As mentioned above, a first alternating current can be input to the first induction coil 122, and a second alternating current can be input to the second induction coil 124.

[0123] The amplitude of the second alternating current input to the second induction coil 124 can be greater than the amplitude of the first alternating current input to the first induction coil 122. Therefore, the main magnetic core 112 wound around the first induction coil 122 and the second induction coil 124 can easily generate a magnetic field with a higher magnetic flux density than the magnetic field generated by the sub-magnetic core 114 wound only around the first induction coil 122.

[0124] In this embodiment, the frequency of the second alternating current can be lower than the frequency of the first alternating current. Therefore, while reducing the destructive interference between the magnetic fields generated by the first induction coil 122 and the second induction coil 124, the magnetic field generated by the main magnetic core 112 can have greater penetrating power than the magnetic field generated by the sub-magnetic core 114.

[0125] Figure 13 This is a perspective view showing an induction heating module according to a variant embodiment.

[0126] like Figure 13 As shown, except for the shape of the main magnetic core 112', the induction heating module 100' according to the variant embodiment can be configured the same as the induction heating module 100 described above.

[0127] That is, the induction heating module 100' according to the modified embodiment may include a magnetic core 110, an induction coil 120, and a pressure pad 130, similar to the induction heating module 100 described above. Although Figure 13 The image is not shown, but the induction heating module 100' according to the variant embodiment may of course also include an insulating block corresponding to the insulating block 140 described above.

[0128] According to a variant embodiment, the main magnetic core 112' of the induction heating module 100' can improve the power efficiency of the battery sealing device 10 by having a shape that shortens the magnetic field path.

[0129] Figure 14 It is shown Figure 13 The side view of the main magnetic core 112' of the induction heating module shown.

[0130] like Figure 14 As shown, the main magnetic core 112' can be manufactured by stacking multiple third metal plates 112'a having the same shape. In this case, each third metal plate 112'a can have a modified "n" shape or a modified "U" shape. That is, compared with the reference... Figure 8 Unlike the first metal plate 112a described, the third metal plate 112'a may have a tilted portion 112'b. This tilted portion 112'b can shorten the path of the magnetic field formed along the main magnetic core 112', thereby reducing the power required to generate a magnetic field with a predetermined magnetic flux density.

[0131] Figure 15 This is a block diagram illustrating a battery manufacturing system 2 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0132] like Figure 15 As shown, the battery manufacturing system 2 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes the aforementioned battery sealing device 10. That is, the battery manufacturing system 2 is configured to seal a battery housing using the battery sealing device 10 according to the present disclosure, the battery housing housing containing electrode assemblies and electrolyte material provided by stacking positive and negative electrode plates with a separator sandwiched between them.

[0133] In one embodiment, the battery manufacturing system 2 may further include an activation device 12. The activation device 12 may be configured to activate the battery, which has been sealed by the battery sealing device 10, by repeatedly charging, discharging, and recharging the battery and performing aging.

[0134] Therefore, the activation device 12 may include a charger / discharger for charging and discharging the battery, a chamber for containing the battery, a temperature controller for controlling the temperature of the chamber, etc.

[0135] As described above, according to this disclosure, the battery sealing device can be configured to seal the battery by directly heating the target portion corresponding to the sealing target using an induction heating method while pressing the target portion, thereby reducing the time and power required for heating and cooling existing sealing tools, extending the service life of the battery sealing device and improving battery productivity.

[0136] In addition, an elastic pressure pad is placed between the magnetic core that generates the magnetic field and the target part of the battery to press the target part. Therefore, even if the target part of the battery has a step or bend, or the corresponding battery is not accurately placed in the designated position, the entire target part can be properly pressed to prevent sealing defects. This can lead to improved battery yield and ensure battery performance and safety.

[0137] In addition, the magnetic core that generates the magnetic field may include a main magnetic core configured to generate a magnetic field with a relatively high magnetic flux density and at least one sub-core configured to generate a magnetic field with a relatively low magnetic flux density, thereby enabling uniform sealing even if the target portion of the battery includes relatively thick and relatively thin portions, and further improving the sealing quality of the battery.

[0138] In addition, since the induction coil wound around the magnetic core has a tubular shape with a hollow interior, cooling material can be supplied to the induction coil to effectively cool the induction coil and the magnetic core, which can further extend the continuous use time of the battery sealing device.

[0139] In addition, since the pressure pad is made of a material including silicone with insulating properties, heat loss at the target area can be prevented, and the power required for the sealing process can be reduced.

[0140] Furthermore, it is evident that the embodiments according to this disclosure can solve various other technical problems in addition to those in the relevant technical fields mentioned in this specification, as well as in the relevant technical fields.

[0141] The present disclosure has been described above with reference to specific embodiments. However, those skilled in the art will clearly understand that various variations can be implemented within the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed above should be considered in an illustrative rather than restrictive manner. That is, the scope of the true technical concept of the present disclosure is shown in the claims, and all differences within the scope of equivalents should be interpreted as included in this disclosure.

[0142] [Icon Symbol Explanation]

[0143] 2: Battery Manufacturing System

[0144] 10: Battery sealing device

[0145] 100: Magnetic core

[0146] 112, 112': Main magnetic core

[0147] 114: Sub-core

[0148] 120: Induction coil

[0149] 122: First induction coil

[0150] 124: Second induction coil

[0151] 130: Pressure pad

[0152] 140: Insulating block

Claims

1. A battery sealing device, the battery sealing device being configured to seal the target portion of the battery using an induction heating method while pressing the target portion corresponding to the sealing target, the battery sealing device comprising: A magnetic core configured to generate a closed-loop magnetic field that penetrates the target portion; An induction coil, the induction coil being wound around the magnetic core; as well as A pressure pad, which is elastic, is disposed between the magnetic core and the target portion and configured to press the target portion.

2. The battery sealing device according to claim 1, in, The magnetic core includes: The main magnetic core is configured to generate a first magnetic field having a predetermined magnetic flux density; and At least one sub-core is disposed adjacent to the main core and configured to generate a second magnetic field having a lower magnetic flux density than the first magnetic field.

3. The battery sealing device according to claim 2, in, The main magnetic core comprises a plurality of first metal plates stacked parallel to each other. The at least one sub-core comprises a plurality of second metal plates stacked parallel to each other, and The thickness of each of the plurality of first metal plates is configured to be thinner than the thickness of each of the plurality of second metal plates.

4. The battery sealing device according to claim 2, in, The target portion includes a first portion with a relatively long magnetic field penetration distance and a second portion with a relatively short magnetic field penetration distance. The main magnetic core is located at a position corresponding to the first part, and The at least one sub-core is disposed at a position corresponding to the second part.

5. The battery sealing device according to claim 2, wherein, in, The main magnetic core and the at least one sub-core each have a partially broken ring shape, and The main magnetic core is configured to protrude further than the at least one sub-core in a predetermined direction.

6. The battery sealing device according to claim 2, in, The induction coil includes: A first induction coil, the first induction coil being wound together with the main magnetic core and the at least one sub-magnetic core; and The second induction coil is wound only around the main magnetic core.

7. The battery sealing device according to claim 6, in, The amplitude of the second alternating current flowing through the second induction coil is greater than the amplitude of the first alternating current flowing through the first induction coil.

8. The battery sealing device according to claim 7, in, The frequency of the second alternating current is lower than the frequency of the first alternating current.

9. The battery sealing device according to claim 1, in, The induction coil has a tubular shape with a hollow interior.

10. The battery sealing device according to claim 9, in, The induction coil includes: An inlet, the inlet being used to introduce cooling material into the induction coil; and An outlet is provided for discharging cooling material introduced into the induction coil to the outside of the induction coil.

11. The battery sealing device according to claim 1, further comprising: An insulating block, which has insulating properties and surrounds the exterior of the magnetic core and the induction coil.

12. The battery sealing device according to claim 11, in, The pressure pad is disposed on the outer surface of the insulating block.

13. The battery sealing device according to claim 1, in, The pressure pad is made of a material including silicone.

14. A battery manufacturing system comprising a battery sealing device according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

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