Apparatus and method for manufacturing secondary battery

Abstract

This invention relates to an apparatus for manufacturing secondary batteries. An apparatus for manufacturing secondary batteries according to one aspect of the invention is used to manufacture a secondary battery in the form of a half-assembly, the half-assembly including a housing having a receiving space and an electrode assembly disposed in the receiving space, and the apparatus for manufacturing secondary batteries may include: a support portion for supporting the half-assembly; an injection portion for injecting electrolyte into the receiving space; and a first moving portion for moving the half-assembly and the injection portion relative to each other when an electrolyte solution is discharged from the injection portion into the receiving space.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0034635, filed in Korea on March 12, 2024, and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0089908, filed in Korea on July 8, 2024, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0004] This disclosure relates to apparatus and methods for manufacturing secondary batteries, and more specifically, to apparatus and methods for manufacturing pouch-type secondary batteries. Background Technology

[0005] Secondary batteries have been used in small applications, including mobile devices and laptops, but recent research is expanding into medium and large-scale applications, and they are increasingly being used in industrial applications requiring high voltage and large capacity, including energy storage systems (ESS) and electric vehicles (EVs). Secondary batteries can be classified in various ways based on their shape or structure. For example, based on the shape of the casing housing the electrodes, secondary batteries can be classified as prismatic, cylindrical, and pouch-type secondary batteries.

[0006] A pouch-type secondary battery is a secondary battery comprising a casing made by forming a pouch shape from a flexible sheet. The pouch-shaped casing has a containment space that can be isolated from the outside. A pouch-type secondary battery is manufactured by placing electrodes and an electrolyte solution into the containment space and sealing the casing.

[0007] In the manufacturing process of secondary batteries, electrodes are impregnated with an electrolyte solution. The electrolyte solution acts as a medium for the movement of ions between the electrodes. When the electrolyte solution is uniformly absorbed into every part of the electrode, the secondary battery can exhibit good performance and stability. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop a secondary battery manufacturing apparatus and method for effectively impregnating electrode assemblies housed in a casing. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Technical issues

[0009] This disclosure aims to solve the above-mentioned problems, and therefore aims to provide a secondary battery manufacturing apparatus and method for effectively impregnating electrode assemblies housed in a housing.

[0010] The problems addressed in this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and these and other problems will become clear to those skilled in the art as described below.

[0011] Technical solution

[0012] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a secondary battery manufacturing apparatus is provided for manufacturing a secondary battery in a semi-assembly, the semi-assembly including a housing having a receiving space and an electrode assembly disposed in the receiving space. The secondary battery manufacturing apparatus includes: a support unit for supporting the semi-assembly; an injection unit configured to inject an electrolyte solution into the receiving space; and a first moving unit configured to move the semi-assembly and the injection unit relative to each other as the electrolyte solution is discharged from the injection unit into the receiving space.

[0013] In this configuration, when the injection unit injects the electrolyte solution, the first moving unit can move at least one of the injection unit or the half-assembly so that the opening of the injection unit and the housing are brought closer to each other.

[0014] In this case, the injection unit can begin injecting electrolyte solution when the injection unit is set to be closer to the bottom side of the electrode assembly than the opening side of the electrode assembly. The opening side can be the part facing the opening of the housing, and the bottom side can be the other part opposite to the opening side. The bottom side is in contact with or faces the bottom surface of the receiving space.

[0015] In this case, the secondary battery manufacturing equipment may also include an adsorption unit configured to widen the gap between the inner surface of the housing and the electrode assembly, such that an injection unit is inserted between the inner surface of the housing and the electrode assembly.

[0016] In this case, the injection unit may include a first injection unit and a second injection unit, which are arranged such that an electrode assembly is inserted between the first injection unit and the second injection unit.

[0017] In this case, the secondary battery manufacturing apparatus may further include a pressing unit configured to apply pressure toward the outer surface of the housing towards the electrode assembly, such that an electrolyte solution injected from the injection unit impregnates the electrode assembly.

[0018] In this configuration, the pressing unit can apply pressure to the outer surface of the housing between the injection unit and the bottom surface of the containment space.

[0019] In this case, the pressing unit may include a first pressing unit and a second pressing unit, which apply pressure to both sides of the housing, respectively.

[0020] In this configuration, the first moving unit can be configured to move the pressing unit and the half-component relative to each other.

[0021] In this case, the secondary battery manufacturing equipment may also include a second moving unit configured to move the pressing unit and the half-assembly relative to each other.

[0022] In this configuration, the second moving unit can move at least one of the pressing unit and the half-assembly so that the openings of the pressing unit and the housing are brought closer to each other.

[0023] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a secondary battery manufacturing apparatus is provided for manufacturing a secondary battery in the form of a semi-assembly, the semi-assembly including a housing having a receiving space and an electrode assembly disposed in the receiving space. The secondary battery manufacturing apparatus includes: a support unit for supporting the semi-assembly; an injection unit configured to inject an electrolyte solution into the receiving space; a pressing unit configured to apply pressure toward the outer surface of the housing toward the electrode assembly, such that the electrolyte solution injected from the injection unit into the receiving space impregnates the electrode assembly; and a second moving unit configured to move the pressing unit and the semi-assembly relative to each other when the housing is pressured by the pressing unit.

[0024] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a method for manufacturing a secondary battery is provided, the method comprising the steps of: providing a semi-assembly including a housing having a receiving space and an electrode assembly disposed in the receiving space; placing an electrolyte injection unit in the receiving space through an opening provided on the housing; and moving the electrolyte injection unit and the semi-assembly relative to each other while discharging an electrolyte solution from the electrolyte injection unit.

[0025] In this case, the step of moving the injection unit and the half-assembly relative to each other may include the following steps: moving the openings of the injection unit and the housing in a direction that brings them closer to each other.

[0026] In this case, during the step of placing the injection unit in the receiving space, the injection unit can be positioned closer to the bottom side of the electrode assembly than the open side of the electrode assembly, which can be the part facing the opening of the housing, and the bottom side can be the opposite part to the open side, which is in contact with or faces the bottom surface of the receiving space.

[0027] In this case, the secondary battery manufacturing method may further include the following steps: widening the gap between the inner surface of the housing and the electrode assembly, and placing the liquid injection unit in the receiving space may include the following steps: placing the liquid injection unit between the inner surface of the housing and the electrode assembly.

[0028] In this case, the secondary battery manufacturing method may further include the following steps: applying pressure to the outer surface of the casing towards the electrode assembly through a pressing unit, so that the electrolyte solution injected from the injection unit is immersed in the electrode assembly.

[0029] In this case, the pressing unit may include a first pressing unit and a second pressing unit, and the step of applying pressure to the outer surface of the housing may include the following steps: applying pressure to both sides of the housing by the first pressing unit and the second pressing unit respectively.

[0030] In this case, during the step of moving the injection unit and the half-assembly relative to each other, the pressing unit can move relative to the half-assembly while applying pressure to the housing.

[0031] In this case, the secondary battery manufacturing method may also include the following steps: moving the pressing unit and the half-assembly relative to each other while applying pressure to the casing through the pressing unit.

[0032] In this case, the step of moving the compression unit and the half-assembly relative to each other can begin simultaneously with or after the step of moving the injection unit and the half-assembly relative to each other.

[0033] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a method for manufacturing a secondary battery is provided, the method comprising the steps of: providing a semi-assembly including a housing having a receiving space and an electrode assembly disposed in the receiving space; injecting an electrolyte solution into the receiving space through an opening provided on the housing; applying pressure toward the outer surface of the housing towards the electrode assembly by a pressing unit, such that the electrolyte solution injected into the receiving space impregnates the electrode assembly; and moving the pressing unit and the semi-assembly relative to each other while applying pressure to the housing by the pressing unit.

[0034] Beneficial effects

[0035] According to one aspect of this disclosure, when the electrolyte solution is discharged from the injection unit disposed in the receiving space of the electrode assembly into the receiving space, the injection unit and the half-assembly can move relative to each other. Therefore, the electrolyte solution can be uniformly filled in the receiving space, thereby achieving effective impregnation of the electrode assembly.

[0036] According to another aspect of this disclosure, when the pressing unit applies pressure to the outer surface of the housing containing the electrode assembly, the pressing unit and the half-assembly can move relative to each other. Therefore, the electrolyte solution in the housing space can be uniformly subjected to pressure toward the electrode assembly, thereby achieving effective impregnation of the electrode assembly.

[0037] The effects of this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art related to this disclosure will clearly understand these and other effects through the specification and drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0038] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a semi-assembly used by a secondary battery manufacturing apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, when viewed from above.

[0039] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a secondary battery manufacturing apparatus and a half-assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In this case, the half-assembly is shown in cross-section to make its interior visible.

[0040] Figure 3 This is a schematic block diagram of a secondary battery manufacturing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the liquid injection unit of a secondary battery manufacturing apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, disposed within a receiving space. In this case, the half-assembly is shown in cross-section to make the interior visible.

[0042] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of a secondary battery manufacturing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 6 This diagram schematically illustrates the process by which the gripping unit of a secondary battery manufacturing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure opens the casing. In this case, the half-assembly is shown in cross-section to make the interior visible.

[0044] Figure 7 This diagram schematically illustrates the process of inserting the liquid injection unit of a secondary battery manufacturing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure into a receiving space. In this case, the half-assembly is shown in cross-section to make the interior visible.

[0045] Figure 8 This diagram schematically illustrates the process of the impregnation solution being discharged from the injection unit of a secondary battery manufacturing apparatus into a receiving space and the pressing unit applying pressure to the housing according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In this case, the half-assembly is shown in cross-section to make the interior visible.

[0046] Figure 9 and Figure 10 This diagram schematically illustrates the process by which a moving unit of a secondary battery manufacturing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure moves an injection unit, a pressing unit, and a semi-assembly relative to each other. In this case, the semi-assembly is shown in cross-section to make its interior visible.

[0047] Figure 11This diagram schematically illustrates the process of removing the liquid injection unit and pressing unit of the secondary battery manufacturing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure from the half-assembly. In this case, the half-assembly is shown in cross-section to make its interior visible. Detailed Implementation

[0048] Exemplary embodiments of this disclosure will be described in full detail to enable those skilled in the art to readily implement this disclosure. However, this disclosure may be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the following embodiments.

[0049] In order to clearly describe this disclosure, irrelevant descriptions or detailed descriptions of related known techniques that may unnecessarily obscure the essential points of this disclosure have been omitted, and throughout the specification, the same or similar reference numerals have been attached to the same or similar elements when adding reference numerals to elements in each figure.

[0050] Furthermore, the terms or words used in the specification and appended claims should not be construed as limited to their general and dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted in accordance with their meanings and concepts corresponding to the technical aspects of this disclosure, based on the principle that the inventors are allowed to define terms appropriately for the best interpretation.

[0051] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a semi-assembly used by a secondary battery manufacturing apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, when viewed from above. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a secondary battery manufacturing apparatus and a half-assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In this case, the half-assembly is shown in cross-section to make its interior visible. Figure 3 This is a schematic block diagram of a secondary battery manufacturing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] Figure 2 and Figure 3 A secondary battery manufacturing apparatus 1 (hereinafter referred to as the manufacturing apparatus) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. (Refer to...) Figure 2 and Figure 3 The manufacturing apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is an apparatus for manufacturing a secondary battery from a half-assembly 2. In this case, the secondary battery may be a pouch-type secondary battery including a pouch-shaped housing that houses electrode assemblies.

[0053] In the following description, before describing the manufacturing apparatus according to embodiments of the present disclosure, a half-component that operates thereon according to embodiments of the present disclosure will be described. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The half-assembly 2 is shown being operated on by manufacturing equipment.

[0054] In this disclosure, the semi-assembly 2 may include a housing 3 having a receiving space A and an electrode assembly 6 disposed in the receiving space A. The housing 3 may include a receiving portion 4 and a gas collection portion 5.

[0055] In this disclosure, the receiving portion 4 can be formed by a sealed bag sheet. In this case, the bag sheet can have a multi-layer structure. As a non-limiting example, the bag sheet may include a metal layer and a non-metallic layer covering both surfaces of the metal layer, and the material of the metal layer may be aluminum (Al), and the material of the non-metallic layer may be a polymer such as PET.

[0056] In this disclosure, the receiving portion 4 can be formed by sealing the edges of a first surface 4a and a second surface 4b formed of a bag sheet, wherein the first surface 4a and the second surface 4b are stacked parallel to each other.

[0057] More specifically, as shown in the figure, the receiving portion 4 can be formed by sealing the edges extending in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction) on the lower side (negative direction of the Z-axis) of the first surface 4a and the second surface 4b, the edges extending in the up-down direction (Z-axis direction) on the left side (negative direction of the Y-axis), and the edges extending in the up-down direction (Z-axis direction) on the right side (positive direction of the Y-axis).

[0058] Therefore, the receiving part 4 can have a receiving space A between the first surface 4a and the second surface 4b. In this case, the receiving space A can communicate with the outside through the unsealed edge of the receiving part 4. As shown in the figure, the receiving space A can communicate with the outside through the top connected to the gas collecting part 5, as described below.

[0059] In this case, a portion of the receiving space A can be defined by the bottom surface F. The bottom surface F can be the area of ​​the inner surface of the receiving part 4 as far away from the opening 3a as possible. As shown, the top of the receiving space A can be connected to the opening 3a provided at the gas collecting part 5, and the bottom of the receiving space A can be surrounded by the bottom surface F. The bottom surface F can extend along the left-right direction (Y-axis direction) on the lower side of the receiving space A.

[0060] In this disclosure, the gas collecting section 5 can extend from the receiving section 4. Furthermore, an opening 3a can be provided at the end of the receiving section 4. In this case, the gas collecting section 5 can be formed using a sealing bag sheet in the same manner as the receiving section 4.

[0061] In this disclosure, the gas collection section 5 can be formed by sealing the edges of a first surface 5a and a second surface 5b formed from a bag sheet, wherein the first surface 5a and the second surface 5b are stacked parallel to each other.

[0062] More specifically, as shown in the figure, the gas collection section 5 can be formed by sealing the edges extending in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) on the left side (negative direction of the Y-axis) of the first surface 5a and the second surface 5b, and the edges extending in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) on the right side (positive direction of the Y-axis).

[0063] In this configuration, the first surface 5a and the second surface 5b of the gas collecting section 5 can be connected to the first surface 4a and the second surface 4b of the receiving section 4, respectively. More specifically, the first surface 5a of the gas collecting section 5 and the first surface 4a of the receiving section 4 can be connected to each other, and the second surface 5b of the gas collecting section 4 and the second surface 4b of the receiving section 4 can be connected to each other.

[0064] Therefore, a gas collection space B can be formed between the first surface 5a and the second surface 5b of the gas collection section 5. The gas collection space B can connect the receiving space A and the opening 3a of the housing 3.

[0065] In this disclosure, the electrode assembly 6 can be disposed in the receiving space A. The electrode assembly 6 may include a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator separating the positive and negative electrodes. As described below, when the electrode assembly 6 is impregnated with an electrolyte solution, the electrode assembly 6 can perform charging and discharging functions. Depending on the manufacturing process or structure, the electrode assembly 6 can be classified as a wound core type, a stacked type, a stacked folded type, etc., but the type is not limited to a specific type.

[0066] In the following text, the upper portion of the electrode assembly 6 near the opening 3a is referred to as the opening-side portion 6a, and the lower portion of the electrode assembly 6 that contacts or faces the bottom surface F is referred to as the bottom-side portion 6b. The opening-side portion 6a and the bottom-side portion 6b may be located on opposite sides in the vertical direction.

[0067] In this disclosure, half-assembly 2 may include electrode leads 7. Electrode leads 7 may be configured to electrically connect electrode assembly 6 to the outside. As a non-limiting example, electrode leads 7 may be formed of a conductive film connected to electrode assembly 6 and extending outward from housing 3, but their shape or type is not limited to a particular shape or type, and may include any shape or type for electrically connecting electrode assembly 6 to the outside.

[0068] In this configuration, the electrode leads 7 may comprise a pair of electrode leads. Furthermore, each of the pair of electrode leads 7 may be connected to each of the positive and negative terminals of the electrode assembly 6. As shown, the pair of electrode leads 7 may extend in opposite directions with the housing 3 inserted between them. The position and direction of extension of the electrode leads 7 may be appropriately changed as needed.

[0069] The configuration of the manufacturing apparatus according to embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in more detail below.

[0070] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 The manufacturing apparatus 1 according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include a support unit 10. The support unit 10 may be configured to support a half-assembly 2.

[0071] In this embodiment, the support unit 10 may be a frame that opens in the front-to-back direction (X-axis direction) and opens at the top (positive direction of the Z-axis) so that the lower part of the half-assembly 2 can be inserted. However, the shape or structure of the support unit 10 is not limited to a specific shape or structure and may include any shape or structure for supporting the half-assembly 2.

[0072] The manufacturing apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include an adsorption unit 20. The adsorption unit 20 may be configured to enlarge the gap between the inner surface of the housing 3 and the electrode assembly 6. In this case, the inner surface of the housing 3 may be the inner surface of the receiving portion 4. This allows the liquid injection unit 30, as described below, to easily enter the gap in the receiving space A.

[0073] In this embodiment, the adsorption unit 20 may include an adsorption pad that has the ability to be tightly held on the outer surface of the gas collection section 5 by adsorption force. In this state where the adsorption unit 20 is tightly held on the outer surface of the gas collection section 5 by adsorption force, the gap can be widened when the adsorption unit 20 moves away from the half assembly 2 in the front-back direction (X-axis direction).

[0074] In this embodiment, the adsorption unit 20 may include a first adsorption unit 22 and a second adsorption unit 24 that are respectively held tightly on the first surface 5a and the second surface 5b of the gas collection section 5 by adsorption force. With the first adsorption unit 22 and the second adsorption unit 24 held tightly on the first surface 5a and the second surface 5b, the gap may widen as the first adsorption unit 22 and the second adsorption unit 24 move away from each other in a direction that moves them away from each other.

[0075] Although this embodiment describes the adsorption unit 20 being held tightly on the outer surface of the gas collection section 5 by adsorption force, the adsorption unit 20 can be configured to be held tightly on other components of the housing 3 by adsorption force as needed. For example, the adsorption unit 20 can be configured to be held tightly on the outer surface of the receiving section 4 by adsorption force.

[0076] Although this embodiment describes the adsorption unit 20 as including an adsorption pad that is held tightly to the object using negative pressure, the detailed structure of the adsorption unit 20 is not limited to a specific structure and may include any structure for holding tightly to the outer surface of the gas collection section 5. For example, the adsorption unit 20 may be replaced by a gripper that grips or releases the outer surface of the gas collection section 5.

[0077] The manufacturing apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a liquid injection unit 30. The liquid injection unit 30 may be configured to inject an electrolyte solution into a receiving space A. As shown, the liquid injection unit 30 may be a location where the electrolyte solution is discharged through an injection tube.

[0078] As an example, the injection unit 30 is the end portion of an injection tube with an outlet. When the injection unit 30 is placed in the receiving space A and the electrolyte solution is discharged through the outlet, the receiving space A can be filled with the electrolyte solution.

[0079] In this case, although not shown, the manufacturing apparatus 1 may also include a tank in which an electrolyte solution is stored for operation of the injection unit 30, and a pump for transferring the electrolyte solution from the tank to the injection unit 30.

[0080] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the injection unit 30 can be configured to move relative to the half-assembly 2. The injection unit 30 can move relative to the housing 3 in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) to approach the opening 3a of the housing 3. The relative movement can be achieved by the moving unit 50 described below. This configuration is intended to completely fill the receiving space A with the electrolyte solution to achieve effective impregnation of the electrode assembly 6.

[0081] When described in more detail, the injection unit 30 may be positioned adjacent to the bottom surface F in the receiving space A. In other words, the injection unit 30 may be positioned closer to the bottom side portion 6b than the opening side portion 6a of the electrode assembly 6.

[0082] Since the injection unit 30 can discharge the electrolyte solution into the receiving space A during the aforementioned placement, the space near the bottom surface F can be completely filled with the electrolyte solution. When the injection unit 30 discharges the electrolyte solution at a position away from the bottom surface F, some lower areas of the receiving space A may not be filled with electrolyte solution. This is because air bubbles may be generated in the area near the bottom surface F as the electrolyte solution flows downward to the lower side of the receiving space A.

[0083] However, since this embodiment is configured such that the liquid level rises as the containment space A is filled with electrolyte solution from the region near the bottom surface F, the formation of air bubbles in the lower part of the containment space A can be minimized, and the containment space A can be completely filled with electrolyte solution.

[0084] Subsequently, in this embodiment, during the relative movement of the injection unit 30 and the half-assembly 2, which brings the injection unit 30 and the opening 3a of the housing 3 closer to each other, the injection unit 30 can discharge the electrolyte solution.

[0085] In this way, the injection unit 30 can completely fill the receiving space A with electrolyte solution from the area near the bottom surface F. In this case, the speed at which the injection unit 30 moves can be equal to or greater than the speed at which the electrolyte solution level rises in the receiving space A.

[0086] The injection unit 30 can be configured to gradually fill the receiving space A from the bottom surface F by movement as described below.

[0087] First, the injection unit 30 can discharge the electrolyte solution at a fixed height at a predetermined distance away from the bottom surface F, and can stop discharging the electrolyte solution when the electrolyte solution level reaches the predetermined height. Furthermore, the injection unit 30 can move to a height at a predetermined distance away from the surface of the electrolyte solution and discharge the electrolyte solution again. The above process can be repeated until the containing space A is filled with the electrolyte solution.

[0088] In addition, return to reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 The manufacturing apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a pressing unit 40. The pressing unit 40 may be configured to apply pressure toward the outer surface of the housing 3 toward the electrode assembly 6, such that the electrode assembly 6 is impregnated with an electrolyte solution injected into the receiving space A.

[0089] In this embodiment, position adjustment can be performed to allow the pressing unit 40 to apply pressure to the outer surface of the housing 3 at a position between the injection unit 30 and the bottom surface F of the receiving space A. This allows the pressure to be concentrated on the area in the receiving space A filled with the electrolyte solution. This is because the electrolyte solution discharged from the injection unit 30 fills the receiving space A from the bottom surface F by gravity.

[0090] In this embodiment, the pressing unit 40 may include a first pressing unit 42 and a second pressing unit 44 that apply pressure to both sides of the housing 3, respectively. The first pressing unit 42 may be configured to apply pressure to the first surface 4a of the receiving portion 4, and the second pressing unit 44 may be configured to apply pressure to the second surface 4b of the receiving portion 4. Therefore, the receiving space A can be subjected to pressure on both sides, thereby achieving more effective impregnation of the electrode assembly 6.

[0091] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first pressing unit 42 and the second pressing unit 44 can be configured to move relative to the half-assembly 2 when pressure is applied to the outer surface of the housing 3. This relative movement can be achieved by the moving unit 50, as described below.

[0092] The first pressing unit 42 and the second pressing unit 44 can move relative to each other in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) to approach the opening 3a of the housing 3. Therefore, the first pressing unit 42 and the second pressing unit 44 can concentrate on immersing a portion of the electrode assembly 6 following the liquid level (or surface) of the electrolyte solution filled in the receiving space A. Thus, the electrode assembly 6 can be immersed more effectively.

[0093] In this embodiment, each of the first pressing unit 42 and the second pressing unit 44 may include a pressing roller. Therefore, as the first pressing unit 42 and the second pressing unit 44 move relative to the half-assembly 2, the pressing roller can roll on the outer surface of the housing 3. Thus, damage to the housing 3 caused by relative movement can be minimized.

[0094] Return to reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 The manufacturing apparatus 1 according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include a moving unit 50. The moving unit 50 may be configured to realize relative movement between the injection unit 30 and the half-assembly 2 (hereinafter referred to as first relative movement) and relative movement between the pressing unit 40 and the half-assembly 2 (hereinafter referred to as second relative movement). For this purpose, the moving unit 50 may include a predetermined actuator (not shown), such as a motor or a hydraulic cylinder.

[0095] In this embodiment, the moving unit 50 may be formed with various structures for realizing the first relative movement and the second relative movement.

[0096] As an example, the first relative movement and the second relative movement can be achieved simultaneously using a single moving unit 50. This provides the moving unit 50 with the advantages of a simpler and more compact design.

[0097] For this purpose, the moving unit 50 may include an actuator and a connector operably connecting the actuator to the support unit 10. The first relative movement and the second relative movement may be achieved solely by moving the half-assembly 2 supported by the support unit 10. Alternatively, the moving unit 50 may include an actuator, a connector operably connecting the actuator to the injection unit 30, and a connector operably connecting the actuator to the compression unit 40.

[0098] As another example, the first relative movement and the second relative movement can be achieved by multiple movement units 50. This provides the advantage that the movement units 50 can more precisely adjust and control the first relative movement and the second relative movement individually.

[0099] For this purpose, the moving unit 50 may include a first moving unit for realizing a first relative movement and a second moving unit for realizing a second relative movement. The first moving unit may include a first actuator and a connector operably connecting the first actuator to the injection unit 30, and the second moving unit may include a second actuator and a connector operably connecting the second actuator to the compression unit 40.

[0100] Return to reference Figure 3 The manufacturing apparatus 1 according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include a control unit 60. The control unit 60 may be configured to control other components of the manufacturing apparatus 1. For example, the control unit 60 may be configured to control the operation of at least one of the adsorption unit 20, the liquid injection unit 30, the pressing unit 40, or the moving unit 50.

[0101] Therefore, the control unit 60 may include, but is not limited to, circuits, processors, central processing units (CPUs), controllers, arithmetic logic units, operational logic circuits, digital signal processing devices, microcomputers, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), system-on-a-chip (SoCs), programmable logic units, microprocessors, or any other devices capable of performing the following functions.

[0102] As described above, the manufacturing apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can completely fill the receiving space A with electrolyte solution from the bottom surface F by the relative movement of the injection unit 30 and the half-assembly 2. Furthermore, the manufacturing apparatus 1 can apply pressure to the housing 3 using the pressing unit 40 to enhance the impregnation of the electrolyte solution into the electrode assembly 6. In this way, the manufacturing apparatus 1 can achieve effective impregnation of the electrode assembly 6.

[0103] In the following description, different accompanying drawings will be used to depict a manufacturing apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0104] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the liquid injection unit of a secondary battery manufacturing apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, disposed within a receiving space. In this case, the half-assembly is shown in cross-section to make the interior visible. In this case, the same reference numerals as in the previous figures denote the same elements performing the same function.

[0105] Figure 4 A manufacturing apparatus 101 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. (See also...) Figure 4According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the liquid injection unit 130 of the manufacturing apparatus 101 may include multiple liquid injection units. Therefore, the accommodating space A can be filled with electrolyte solution more quickly.

[0106] As shown in the figure, in this embodiment, the liquid injection unit 130 may include a first liquid injection unit 132 and a second liquid injection unit 134. In this case, the first liquid injection unit 132 and the second liquid injection unit 134 may be arranged such that the electrode assembly 6 is inserted therebetween. In other words, the first liquid injection unit 132 may be disposed between the first surface 4a of the receiving portion 4 and the electrode assembly 6, and the second liquid injection unit 134 may be disposed between the second surface 4b of the receiving portion 4 and the electrode assembly 6. In this way, both surfaces of the electrode assembly 6 can be quickly and effectively impregnated with the electrolyte solution.

[0107] In the following, different figures will be used to describe a method for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure (hereinafter referred to as the manufacturing method).

[0108] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of a secondary battery manufacturing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the process by which the gripping unit of a secondary battery manufacturing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure opens the casing. Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the process of inserting the liquid injection unit of a secondary battery manufacturing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure into a receiving space. Figure 8 This diagram schematically illustrates the process of an impregnation solution being discharged from the injection unit of a secondary battery manufacturing apparatus into a receiving space and a pressing unit applying pressure to the housing according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 9 and Figure 10 This diagram schematically illustrates the process by which a moving unit of a secondary battery manufacturing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure moves an injection unit, a pressing unit, and a semi-assembly relative to each other. Figure 11 This diagram schematically illustrates the process of removing the liquid injection unit and pressing unit from the semi-assembly in a secondary battery manufacturing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In this case, in Figures 6 to 11 In the middle, the half-component is shown in cross-section to make the interior visible.

[0109] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 5 The manufacturing method according to the embodiments of this disclosure can be a method for manufacturing a secondary battery from the half-assembly 2. In this case, the manufacturing method according to the embodiments of this disclosure can be performed by the manufacturing equipment described above according to the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0110] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6The manufacturing method according to the embodiments of the present disclosure includes the following steps: providing a half component 2 (S10); and separating one surface of the housing 3 from the electrode assembly 6 by means of an adsorption unit 20 to increase the gap between them (S20).

[0111] In this embodiment, one surface of the housing 3 can be the first surface 4a of the receiving portion 4. Furthermore, in step S20, to increase the gap between the first surface 4a of the receiving portion 4 and the electrode assembly 6, the first adsorption unit 22 can move forward (in the positive direction of the X-axis) away from the gas collecting portion 5 while being tightly held on the first surface 5a of the gas collecting portion 5 by adsorption force, and the second adsorption unit 24 can be fixed in place while being tightly fixed on the second surface 5b of the gas collecting portion 5 by adsorption force.

[0112] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 7 The manufacturing method according to the embodiments of the present disclosure includes the following steps: widening the gap between one surface of the housing 3 and the electrode assembly 6 (S20); and placing the liquid injection unit 30 in the receiving space A through the opening 3a of the housing 3 (S30).

[0113] In this case, in step S30 of the manufacturing method according to this embodiment, the liquid injection unit 30 can be placed between the first surface 4a of the receiving portion 4 formed in step S20 and the electrode assembly 6. The liquid injection unit 30 can be more easily placed in the receiving space A through the space formed in step S20.

[0114] In this case, in step S30 of the manufacturing method according to this embodiment, the liquid injection unit 30 can be placed adjacent to the bottom surface F of the receiving space A. In other words, the liquid injection unit 30 can be placed closer to the bottom side portion 6b than the electrode side portion 6a.

[0115] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 8 The manufacturing method according to the embodiments of the present disclosure includes the following steps: placing the injection unit 30 in the receiving space A (S30); and starting to discharge the electrolyte solution L from the injection unit 30 into the receiving space A (S40).

[0116] In this embodiment, since the injection unit 30 is positioned adjacent to the bottom surface F in step S30, the electrolyte solution L discharged from the injection unit 30 can completely fill the containment space A from the area near the bottom surface F.

[0117] Furthermore, the manufacturing method according to embodiments of this disclosure includes the following steps: initiating the discharge of electrolyte solution L (S30); and applying pressure towards the outer surface of the housing 3 via the pressing unit 40 towards the electrode assembly 6 (S50). This is to achieve effective impregnation of the electrolyte solution L into the electrode assembly 6.

[0118] In this case, in step S50 of the manufacturing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the pressing unit 40 can apply pressure to the electrode assembly 6 in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) at a position between the bottom surface F and the liquid injection unit 30. Therefore, the area in the receiving space A adjacent to the bottom surface F where the electrolyte solution L was first filled can be concentrated under the pressure of the pressing unit 40.

[0119] In this case, in step S50 of the manufacturing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, pressure can be applied to both sides of the housing 3 by the first pressing unit 42 and the second pressing unit 44, respectively. Therefore, the internal pressure of the accommodating space A can be increased, and the electrode assembly 6 can be more effectively impregnated with the electrolyte solution L.

[0120] Reference Figure 5 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 The manufacturing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes the following steps: starting to discharge the electrolyte solution L (S30); and moving the injection unit 30 and the half-assembly 2 relative to each other while the electrolyte solution L is being discharged from the injection unit 30 (S60). Therefore, the accommodating space A can be completely filled with the electrolyte solution L through the injection unit 30.

[0121] In the following text, the relative movement performed in step S60 is referred to as the first relative movement. In this case, in step S60 according to this embodiment, the first relative movement can be performed when the support unit 10 of the support half assembly 2 moves downward (in the negative direction of the Z-axis) by the moving unit.

[0122] Furthermore, in step S60 of the manufacturing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a first relative movement can be performed in a direction in which the opening 3a of the injection unit 30 and the housing 3 approaches each other. The speed of the first relative movement can be equal to or greater than the speed at which the liquid level (or surface) of the electrolyte solution L rises in the accommodating space A.

[0123] In this way, the injection unit 30 can discharge the electrolyte solution L at a predetermined distance above the liquid level (or surface) of the electrolyte solution L (along the positive direction of the Z-axis) without being submerged in the electrolyte solution L. Therefore, the injection of the injection unit 30 can be performed more smoothly.

[0124] Return to reference Figure 5 , Figure 9and Figure 10 The manufacturing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes the following steps: applying pressure to the outer surface of the housing 3 by means of the pressing unit 40 (S50); and moving the pressing unit 40 and the half assembly 2 relative to each other (S70). Therefore, the filling operation can be performed while applying pressure to the entire electrode assembly 6.

[0125] In the following text, the relative movement performed in step S70 is referred to as the second relative movement. In this case, in step S70 according to this embodiment, the second relative movement can be performed when the support unit 10 of the support half assembly 2 moves downward (in the negative direction of the Z-axis) by the moving unit.

[0126] In this case, in step S70 of the manufacturing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a second relative movement can be performed in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) so that the pressing unit 40 and the opening 3a of the housing 3 move closer to each other. Therefore, the pressing unit 40 can apply pressure to the entire outer surface of the housing 3 in the direction of rising liquid level (or surface) of the electrolyte solution L.

[0127] In this case, step S70 of the manufacturing method according to the embodiments of the present disclosure may begin simultaneously with or after the start of step S60. In other words, at least a portion of steps S60 and S70 may overlap. In this case, the portion may refer to a predetermined time interval. In this way, the pressing unit 40 can apply pressure to the entire outer surface of the housing 3 as the liquid level (or surface) of the electrolyte solution L rises.

[0128] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 11 The manufacturing method according to an embodiment of this disclosure includes the following steps: moving the injection unit 30 and the half-assembly 2 relative to each other (S60); and terminating the discharge of the electrolyte solution L when an optimal amount of electrolyte solution L is filled in the receiving space A, and removing the injection unit 30 from the housing 3 (S80). The total amount of injected electrolyte solution L can be appropriately set as needed. In this case, the pressing unit 40 can stop applying pressure to the outer surface of the housing 3 and move away from the half-assembly 2.

[0129] Furthermore, the manufacturing method according to an embodiment of this disclosure includes the following steps: sealing the opening 3a of the housing 3 to isolate the receiving space A and the gas collection space B from the outside (S90); and performing an activation process to charge and discharge the electrode assembly 6, and discharging the gas generated during the activation process to the outside of the housing 3 (S100). In this case, in step S100, in order to discharge the gas to the outside of the housing 3, a hole may be formed in the gas collection section 5, or a portion of the gas collection section 5 may be cut off.

[0130] In addition, refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 5 The manufacturing method according to the embodiments of the present disclosure includes the following steps: venting gas during the activation process (S100); and forming a sealing portion between the receiving portion 4 and the gas collecting portion 5 to isolate the receiving space A from the gas collecting space B (S110).

[0131] More specifically, in step S110, based on Figure 1 and Figure 2 The edge extending in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction) at the upper side (positive direction of the Z-axis) of the receiving part 4 can be sealed. Therefore, the receiving space A, the electrode assembly 6, and the electrolyte solution contained in the receiving space A can be isolated from the outside. In addition, the gas collection part 5 is removed (S120). For this purpose, a cut can be made between the receiving part 4 and the gas collection part 5.

[0132] As described above, in the manufacturing method according to the embodiments of this disclosure, the receiving space A can be completely filled with the electrolyte solution L through steps S30 and S60. Furthermore, steps S50 and S70 can cause a pressure increase in the receiving space A to facilitate the easy impregnation of the electrolyte solution L into the electrode assembly 6. In this way, the manufacturing method can achieve more efficient impregnation of the electrode assembly 6.

[0133] In this case, steps S60 and S70 can be performed independently. For example, as described in this embodiment, both relative movement between the half-assembly and the injection unit (step S60) and relative movement between the half-assembly and the compression unit (step S70) can be performed. However, in another embodiment, only relative movement between the half-assembly and the injection unit can be performed, and the half-assembly and the compression unit can be relatively fixed in place. In yet another embodiment, only relative movement between the half-assembly and the compression unit can be performed, and the half-assembly and the injection unit can be relatively fixed in place.

[0134] Although the manufacturing method according to embodiments of the present disclosure has been described as being performed by manufacturing equipment according to embodiments of the present disclosure, the manufacturing method according to embodiments of the present disclosure may be performed by any other equipment besides the manufacturing equipment. Alternatively, at least one step of the manufacturing method according to embodiments of the present disclosure may be performed manually by an operator.

[0135] Although this disclosure has been described above with respect to a limited number of embodiments and accompanying drawings, this disclosure is not limited thereto and may be implemented in different forms by those skilled in the art related to this disclosure, within the technical aspects of this disclosure and within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0136] [List of reference numerals]

[0137] 1: Secondary battery manufacturing equipment

[0138] 2: Half-component

[0139] 10: Support Unit

[0140] 20: Adsorption Unit

[0141] 30, 130: Injection unit

[0142] 40: Suppression Unit

[0143] 50: Moving Unit

[0144] 60: Control Unit

[0145] A: Capacity

[0146] B: Gas collection space

Claims

1. A secondary battery manufacturing apparatus, the secondary battery manufacturing apparatus being used to manufacture a secondary battery in the form of a semi-assembly, the semi-assembly comprising a housing having a receiving space and an electrode assembly disposed in the receiving space, the secondary battery manufacturing apparatus comprising: Support unit, the support unit being used to support the half component; The liquid injection unit is configured to inject an electrolyte solution into the containment space; as well as A first moving unit is configured to move the half-assembly and the injection unit relative to each other as the electrolyte solution is discharged from the injection unit into the containment space.

2. The secondary battery manufacturing equipment according to claim 1, wherein When the injection unit injects the electrolyte solution, the first moving unit moves at least one of the injection unit or the half-assembly so that the opening of the injection unit and the housing are brought closer to each other.

3. The secondary battery manufacturing equipment according to claim 1, wherein The injection unit begins injecting the electrolyte solution when it is positioned closer to the bottom side of the electrode assembly than the opening side of the electrode assembly. The opening side portion is the portion facing the opening of the housing, and The bottom side portion is the opposite of the opening side portion, and the bottom side portion is in contact with or faces the bottom surface of the receiving space.

4. The secondary battery manufacturing equipment according to claim 1, further comprising: An adsorption unit is configured to widen the gap between the inner surface of the housing and the electrode assembly, such that the liquid injection unit is inserted between the inner surface of the housing and the electrode assembly.

5. The secondary battery manufacturing equipment according to claim 1, wherein The injection unit includes: The first injection unit and the second injection unit are arranged such that the electrode assembly is inserted between the first injection unit and the second injection unit.

6. The secondary battery manufacturing equipment according to claim 1, wherein the secondary battery manufacturing equipment further comprises: A pressing unit is configured to apply pressure toward the outer surface of the housing towards the electrode assembly, such that the electrolyte solution injected from the injection unit impregnates the electrode assembly.

7. The secondary battery manufacturing equipment according to claim 6, wherein The pressing unit applies pressure to the outer surface of the housing between the injection unit and the bottom surface of the containing space.

8. The secondary battery manufacturing equipment according to claim 6, wherein, The suppression unit includes: A first pressing unit and a second pressing unit apply pressure to both sides of the housing, respectively.

9. The secondary battery manufacturing equipment according to claim 8, wherein, The first moving unit is configured to move the pressing unit and the half-component relative to each other.

10. The secondary battery manufacturing equipment according to claim 8, wherein the secondary battery manufacturing equipment further comprises: A second moving unit is configured to move the pressing unit and the half-assembly relative to each other.

11. The secondary battery manufacturing equipment according to claim 10, wherein The second moving unit moves at least one of the pressing unit and the half assembly so that the opening of the pressing unit and the housing moves closer to each other.

12. A secondary battery manufacturing apparatus, the secondary battery manufacturing apparatus being used to manufacture a secondary battery in the form of a semi-assembly, the semi-assembly comprising a housing having a receiving space and an electrode assembly disposed in the receiving space, the secondary battery manufacturing apparatus comprising: Support unit, the support unit being used to support the half component; The liquid injection unit is configured to inject an electrolyte solution into the containment space; A pressing unit, configured to apply pressure toward the outer surface of the housing towards the electrode assembly, such that the electrolyte solution injected from the injection unit into the containment space impregnates the electrode assembly; as well as A second moving unit is configured to move the pressing unit and the half-assembly relative to each other when the housing is pressured by the pressing unit.

13. A method for manufacturing a secondary battery, the method comprising the following steps: A semi-assembly is provided, the semi-assembly comprising a housing having a receiving space and an electrode assembly disposed in the receiving space; The injection unit is placed in the receiving space through an opening provided on the housing; as well as When the electrolyte solution is discharged from the injection unit, the injection unit and the half-assembly are moved relative to each other.

14. The method for manufacturing a secondary battery according to claim 13, wherein The step of moving the injection unit and the semi-assembly relative to each other includes the following steps: the openings of the injection unit and the housing are moved in a direction that brings them closer to each other.

15. The method for manufacturing a secondary battery according to claim 13, further comprising the following steps: Increase the gap between the inner surface of the housing and the electrode assembly. The step of placing the injection unit in the receiving space includes the following steps: placing the injection unit between the inner surface of the housing and the electrode assembly.

16. The method for manufacturing a secondary battery according to claim 13, further comprising the following steps: Pressure is applied to the outer surface of the housing by the pressing unit toward the electrode assembly, so that the electrolyte solution injected from the injection unit is immersed in the electrode assembly.

17. The method for manufacturing a secondary battery according to claim 16, wherein The pressing unit includes a first pressing unit and a second pressing unit, and The step of applying pressure to the outer surface of the housing includes the following steps: applying pressure to both sides of the housing by means of the first pressing unit and the second pressing unit respectively.

18. The method for manufacturing a secondary battery according to claim 16, wherein, In the step of moving the injection unit and the half-assembly relative to each other, the pressing unit moves relative to the half-assembly while applying pressure to the housing.

19. The method for manufacturing a secondary battery according to claim 16, further comprising the following steps: When pressure is applied to the housing through the pressing unit, the pressing unit and the half-assembly are moved relative to each other.

20. A method for manufacturing a secondary battery, the method comprising the following steps: A semi-assembly is provided, the semi-assembly comprising a housing having a receiving space and an electrode assembly disposed in the receiving space; The electrolyte solution is injected into the containing space through an opening provided on the shell; Pressure is applied to the outer surface of the housing by the pressing unit toward the electrode assembly, so that the electrolyte solution injected into the receiving space is impregnated into the electrode assembly; as well as When pressure is applied to the housing through the pressing unit, the pressing unit and the half-assembly are moved relative to each other.

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