Top cap welding apparatus for cylindrical battery cells and top cap welding method for cylindrical battery cells using the same

Abstract

Disclosed are a top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell and a top cover welding method for a cylindrical battery cell using the same, the top cover welding apparatus including a transfer unit configured to transfer a cylindrical battery case in which an electrode assembly having an outwardly exposed electrode tab is received, a pressing unit located at a front of the battery case, the pressing unit configured to press the battery case, a support unit located at a rear of the battery case, the support unit configured to support the battery case, a top cover holder configured to position a top cover at a rear of the electrode tab, a top cover support unit configured to support a rear of the top cover, and a welding unit configured to weld the electrode tab and the top cover to each other, wherein the welding unit includes a welding mask configured to bring the electrode tab into close contact with the top cover, and a debris removal unit configured to remove debris generated during welding by injecting gas and / or sucking the debris.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0179454, filed on December 5, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] This invention relates to a top cover welding apparatus for cylindrical battery cells and a top cover welding method for cylindrical battery cells using the top cover welding apparatus, and more specifically, to a top cover welding apparatus for cylindrical battery cells capable of easily removing debris generated in the welding mask during welding and a top cover welding method for cylindrical battery cells using the top cover welding apparatus. Background Technology

[0003] With the technological advancements in mobile devices and the increasing demand for them, rechargeable and dischargeable batteries have been adopted as energy sources for various mobile devices. Rechargeable batteries have also attracted attention as an energy source for electric vehicles and hybrid electric vehicles, which are being proposed as alternatives to existing gasoline and diesel vehicles that use fossil fuels.

[0004] Based on the shape of the battery box, secondary batteries are divided into cylindrical batteries with electrode assemblies installed in cylindrical metal cans, prismatic batteries with electrode assemblies installed in prismatic metal cans, and pouch batteries with electrode assemblies installed in pouch-shaped boxes made of aluminum laminated sheets.

[0005] Typically, cylindrical battery cells use a wound electrode assembly housed in a cylindrical battery case. This wound electrode assembly is configured such that the positive electrode sheet and the negative electrode sheet are wound together with a separator sheet inserted between the positive electrode sheet and the negative electrode sheet.

[0006] Figure 1 It shows a cross-sectional view of a cylindrical battery cell, and Figure 2 This is a view illustrating the state in which the electrode contacts of the electrode assembly are welded to the top cover when viewed from the front and rear of the top cover.

[0007] To manufacture a cylindrical battery cell, an electrode assembly is housed in an open cylindrical battery case, a top cover is positioned at the upper end of the cylindrical battery case, and the electrode tabs of the electrode assembly are welded to the top cover.

[0008] Specifically, the cylindrical battery cell 10 includes a battery case 11 with an open top, an electrode assembly 12 housed in the battery case 11, and a top cover 13 connected to the top of the battery case 11.

[0009] The top cover 13 is located on top of the electrode assembly 12, electrically connected to the electrode contacts 12a of the electrode assembly 12, and connected to the open top of the battery case 11 to seal the electrode assembly 12 housed in the battery case 11.

[0010] The top cover 13 is electrically connected to the electrode contacts 12a by welding. Welding is typically performed with the battery case 11, in which the electrode assembly 12 is received, pressed against the top cover 13 and the top cover 13 and the electrode contacts 12a in close contact with each other.

[0011] During the welding process of electrode tab 12a and top cover 13, an inert gas (protective gas) is injected into the weld joint to prevent impurities present in the air from adhering to the weld joint.

[0012] However, the debris (spatter) generated in the welding mask during welding is captured by inert gas in a certain internal space of the welding mask, and part of the laser's aperture in the welding mask is blocked by the captured debris.

[0013] At this time, the laser used for welding electrode contacts 12a and top cover 13 may not be able to pass through the laser pass-through hole. As a result, the weld joint between electrode contacts 12a and top cover 13 may deviate from the laser focus or be not welded, leading to welding defects. When welding defects occur, the equipment must be stopped and debris must be removed manually, resulting in reduced operating efficiency.

[0014] (Existing technical documents)

[0015] (Patent Document 1) Korean Patent Application Publication No. 10-2021-0077460

[0016] (Patent Document 1) Korean Patent Application Publication No. 10-2021-0039938 Summary of the Invention

[0017] Technical issues

[0018] The present invention was made in view of the above problems, and the object of the present invention is to provide a top cover welding apparatus for cylindrical battery cells with a debris removal function for removing debris generated during welding, and a top cover welding method for cylindrical battery cells using the top cover welding apparatus.

[0019] Technical solution

[0020] As a technical means to achieve the above-mentioned objectives, a top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a conveying unit (100) configured to convey a cylindrical battery case (11) in which an electrode assembly (12) having an outwardly exposed electrode tab (12a) is received; a pressing unit (200) located at the front of the battery case (11) and configured to press the battery case (11); a support unit (300) located at the rear of the battery case (11) and configured to support the battery case (11); and a top cover retainer (400) for holding the top cover. The holder (400) is configured to position the top cover (13) at the rear of the electrode tab (12a); the top cover support unit (500) is configured to support the rear of the top cover (13); and the welding unit (600) is configured to weld the electrode tab (12a) and the top cover (130) to each other, wherein the welding unit (600) includes: a welding mask (610) configured to bring the electrode tab (12a) into close contact with the top cover (13); and a debris removal unit (670) configured to remove debris generated during welding by injecting gas and / or suctioning debris.

[0021] Furthermore, in the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to an embodiment of the present invention, the debris removal unit (670) may include: a protective gas injection unit (671) configured to inject an inert gas into the welding mask (610) to prevent oxygen from entering the welding mask (610); and a suction unit configured to suction debris generated in the welding mask (610).

[0022] Furthermore, in the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to an embodiment of the present invention, the suction unit configured to suction debris generated in the welding mask (610) may include a second suction unit (672) and a third suction unit (673), and the welding mask (610) may be provided with: a second suction hole (612) configured to connect the interior of the welding mask (610) and the second suction unit (672) to each other; and a third suction hole (613) configured to connect the interior of the welding mask (610) and the third suction unit (673) to each other.

[0023] Furthermore, in the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to an embodiment of the present invention, the welding mask (610) may be provided with a laser through hole (611) configured to allow a laser for welding the electrode tabs (12a) and the top cover (13) to pass through the laser through hole (611).

[0024] Furthermore, in the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to an embodiment of the present invention, the top cover support unit (500) may include a support member (510) configured to support the rear of the top cover (13), and the support member (510) may have a first through hole (510a) formed in one surface of the support member (510) at a position corresponding to the laser through hole (611).

[0025] Furthermore, in the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to an embodiment of the present invention, the support member (510) may be provided with a first suction hole (510b) communicating with a first connecting hole (510a) in the side surface of the support member (510), and the first suction hole (510b) may be connected to a first suction unit (512).

[0026] Furthermore, in the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to an embodiment of the present invention, the welding unit (600) may include a vacuum unit (680) connected to a first suction unit (512), a second suction unit (672) and a third suction unit (673), the vacuum unit being configured to create a vacuum.

[0027] Furthermore, in the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to an embodiment of the present invention, the vacuum unit (680) can be operated in a first operating mode to suck up debris generated during welding by the second suction unit (672) and the third suction unit (673) when welding the electrode tabs (12a) and the top cover (13).

[0028] Furthermore, in the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to an embodiment of the present invention, the vacuum unit (680) can be operated in a second operating mode to suck up debris present in the welding mask (610) by the first suction unit (512), the second suction unit (672) and the third suction unit (673) when the welding mask (610) and the support member (510) are in contact with each other.

[0029] Furthermore, in the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to an embodiment of the present invention, in the second operating mode, the protective gas injection unit (671) can inject inert gas into the welding mask (610).

[0030] Furthermore, in the top cover welding apparatus for cylindrical battery cells according to an embodiment of the present invention, the inert gas may be any one of carbon dioxide (CO2), argon (Ar), helium (He2), and nitrogen (N2).

[0031] Furthermore, in the top cover welding apparatus for cylindrical battery cells according to an embodiment of the present invention, the inert gas may be nitrogen (N2).

[0032] Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a method for welding the top cover of a cylindrical battery cell using a welding apparatus for a top cover of a cylindrical battery cell includes: step S1, conveying the battery case (11) to one side or the other side by a conveying unit (100); step S2, positioning the top cover (13) at the rear of the electrode contact (12a) by a top cover holder (400); step S3, supporting the rear of the top cover (13) by a top cover support unit (500); step S4, pressing the battery case (11) backward by a pressing unit (200); and step S5, welding the top cover (13) and the electrode contact (12a) to each other by a welding unit (600).

[0033] Furthermore, in the top cover welding method for a cylindrical battery cell according to an embodiment of the present invention, in step S5, the vacuum unit (680) of the welding unit (600) can be operated in a first operating mode to suck up debris generated during welding by the second suction unit (672) and the third suction unit (673).

[0034] Furthermore, in the top cover welding method for a cylindrical battery cell according to an embodiment of the present invention, after step S5, the vacuum unit (680) of the welding unit (600) can be operated in a second operating mode to suck up debris present in the welding mask (610) by the first suction unit (512), the second suction unit (672) and the third suction unit (673) while the welding mask (610) and the support member (510) are in contact with each other.

[0035] Beneficial effects

[0036] As is apparent from the above description, in the top cover welding apparatus for cylindrical battery cells according to the present invention and the top cover welding method for cylindrical battery cells using the top cover welding apparatus, the welding unit includes a debris removal unit configured to inject gas and / or suction debris, thereby removing debris generated during welding by injecting gas toward the debris or suctioning the debris.

[0037] Furthermore, in the top cover welding apparatus for cylindrical battery cells according to the present invention and the top cover welding method for cylindrical battery cells using the top cover welding apparatus, the suction unit is connected to the welding mask and the support member disposed opposite to the welding mask, such that a vacuum is generated when the welding mask and the support member are in contact with each other, thereby removing debris present in the welding mask by suction. Attached Figure Description

[0038] Figure 1 It shows a cross-sectional view of a cylindrical battery cell.

[0039] Figure 2 This is a view illustrating the state in which the electrode contacts of the electrode assembly are welded to the top cover when viewed from the front and rear of the top cover.

[0040] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention, as viewed from one side.

[0041] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the invention, as viewed from the other side.

[0042] Figure 5 This is a top view of the top cover welding apparatus for cylindrical battery cells according to the present invention.

[0043] Figure 6 This is a perspective view illustrating a pressing unit constituting a top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention.

[0044] Figure 7 This is a perspective view illustrating a conveying unit constituting a top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention.

[0045] Figure 8 The illustration shows a pusher unit constituting a top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention, wherein the supplied battery case is shown tilted to one side.

[0046] Figure 9 The illustration shows a pusher unit constituting a top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention, wherein the supplied battery case is shown tilted to the other side.

[0047] Figure 10 This is an exploded cross-sectional view of the rotating shaft that constitutes the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention.

[0048] Figure 11This is a view illustrating the principle of rotating the actuator unit by a guide member in a top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention, wherein the supplied battery box is shown tilted to the other side.

[0049] Figure 12 This is an exploded cross-sectional view of the guide member constituting the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention.

[0050] Figure 13 This is a perspective view illustrating an angle adjustment unit constituting a top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention.

[0051] Figure 14 The diagram illustrates an exploded perspective view of an angle adjustment unit constituting a top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention.

[0052] Figure 15 The illustration shows a perspective view of a top cover support unit constituting a top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention, when viewed from one side.

[0053] Figure 16 The illustration shows a perspective view of a top cover support unit constituting a top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention, when viewed from the other side.

[0054] Figure 17 The illustration shows a cross-sectional view of a support member constituting a top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention.

[0055] Figure 18 This is an internal cross-sectional view of the first cylinder unit constituting the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention.

[0056] Figure 19 This is a side view illustrating the forward drive of a top cover support unit constituting a top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention.

[0057] Figure 20 The illustration shows a rearward-driven side view of a top cover support unit constituting a top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention.

[0058] Figure 21 This is a perspective view illustrating a welding unit constituting a top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention, when viewed from one side.

[0059] Figure 22 This is an enlarged perspective view of the welding unit constituting the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention, when viewed from one side.

[0060] Figure 23 This is a perspective view illustrating the welding unit constituting the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention, when viewed from the other side.

[0061] Figure 24 This is a partially enlarged perspective view of the welding unit constituting the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention, when viewed from one side.

[0062] Figure 25 This is a view showing the welding mask constituting the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention, when viewed from the rear.

[0063] Figure 26 This is a side view illustrating the forward and backward driving of a welding unit constituting a top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention.

[0064] Figure 27 This is an internal cross-sectional view of the second cylinder unit constituting the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention.

[0065] Figure 28 This is a view illustrating a method for a second position detection sensor to detect the position of a second cylinder when the top cover is normally positioned in the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention.

[0066] Figure 29 This is a view illustrating a method for a second position detection sensor to detect the position of a second cylinder when the top cover is not located in the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention.

[0067] Figure 30 This is a side view illustrating another method of rearward driving of a welding unit constituting a top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention.

[0068] Figure 31 The illustration shows an enlarged perspective view of the debris removal unit constituting the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention, when viewed from one side.

[0069] Figure 32 It is a cross-sectional view of the welding mask, illustrating the first operating mode of the vacuum unit constituting the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention.

[0070] Figure 33 It is a cross-sectional view of the welding mask, illustrating the second operating mode of the vacuum unit constituting the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention.

[0071] Figure 34This is a perspective view illustrating a temperature control unit constituting a top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention.

[0072] Figure 35 The diagram illustrates an exploded perspective view of a temperature control unit constituting a top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0073] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, so that these preferred embodiments can be readily implemented by those skilled in the art. However, in describing the operating principles of the preferred embodiments of the present invention, detailed descriptions of known functions and configurations incorporated herein may obscure the subject matter of the invention.

[0074] Furthermore, throughout the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals will be used to refer to components that perform similar functions or operations. Throughout the specification, when a component is referred to as being connected to another component, this means that a component can be directly connected to another component, and also indirectly connected to another component via another component. Additionally, including a predetermined element does not mean excluding other elements, but rather that such elements may be included unless otherwise specified.

[0075] The following describes a top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention, and a top cover welding method for a cylindrical battery cell using the top cover welding apparatus.

[0076] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention, as viewed from one side. Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the invention, as viewed from the other side. Figure 5 This is a top view of the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention. Additionally, Figure 6 The illustration shows a perspective view of a pressing unit constituting a top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention, and Figure 7 This is a perspective view illustrating a conveying unit constituting a top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention.

[0077] Reference Figures 3 to 7 According to an embodiment of the present invention, a top cover welding device for a cylindrical battery cell includes a conveying unit 100, a pressing unit 200, a supporting unit 300, a top cover retainer 400, a top cover support unit 500, a welding unit 600, and a support body unit 700.

[0078] First, the transfer unit 100 includes a transfer line 110 and a seating unit 120, and can be configured to transfer a cylindrical battery box 11 between the pressing unit 200 and the support unit 300, wherein an electrode assembly 12 with outwardly exposed electrode contacts 12a is received in the battery box 11.

[0079] The seating unit 120 is seated on the transmission line 110, and the transmission line can be configured to transport the battery box 11 seated on the seating unit 120 to one side. Figure 5 (at the 3 o'clock position) or the other side ( Figure 5 (The 9 o'clock position in the middle).

[0080] The seating unit 120, which is seated on the conveyor line 110, may include a seating plate 121, a clamping member 122, and a connecting portion 123, and multiple seating units 120 may be provided for seating on the conveyor line 110.

[0081] The mounting plate 121 can be configured to allow a battery case 11 with electrode assemblies 12 received therein to sit on the mounting plate 121. Preferably, the mounting plate 121 is sized such that even if the battery case 11 is pushed back by the pressing unit 200 ( Figure 7 The battery box 11 is moved to the 1 o'clock position, and most (at least half) of the bottom surface of the battery box 11 is also located on the seat plate 121.

[0082] The clamp member 122 is connected to the seat plate 121 via the connecting portion 123 and can be configured as part of the battery box 11.

[0083] More specifically, the clamping member 122 may be configured to surround a portion of the circumferential surface of the battery case 11. For example, the clamping member 122 may be configured to support a side of the battery case 11 seated on the mounting plate 121. Figure 6 (5 o'clock position) or the other side ( Figure 6 (The 11 o'clock position in the middle).

[0084] In this case, the clamp member 122 is formed to surround the front of the battery box 11. Figure 7 The part with the pressing unit 200 is located at the 7 o'clock position, and the rear part of the battery box 11 ( Figure 7 The 1 o'clock position in the middle can be opened.

[0085] The connecting portion 123 is configured to connect the seat plate 121 and the clamp member 122 to each other, and can be sized such that a portion of the pusher member 221 of the pressing unit 200 can pass through the connecting portion 123. A detailed description of this will be given later.

[0086] Meanwhile, the transmission line 110 can transport the battery box 11 a predetermined distance and keep it temporarily stationary. Here, the predetermined distance corresponds to the spacing, that is, the interval between the seating portions 120 seated on the transmission line 110.

[0087] In addition, the transfer line 110 can be kept stationary during the welding process between the electrode contacts 12a of the battery box 11 and the top cover 13.

[0088] The conveyor line 110 may be constructed as a conveyor belt; however, the invention is not limited thereto.

[0089] Figure 8 The diagram illustrates a pusher unit constituting a top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention, wherein the supplied battery case is shown tilted to one side. Figure 9 This is a view illustrating a pusher unit constituting a top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention, wherein the supplied battery case is shown tilted to the other side; and Figure 10 This is an exploded cross-sectional view of the rotation axis constituting the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention. Additionally, Figure 11 This is a view illustrating the principle of rotating the actuator unit via a guide member in a top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention, wherein the supplied battery case is shown tilted to the other side; and Figure 12 This is an exploded cross-sectional view of the guide member constituting the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention. Additionally, Figure 13 The illustration shows a perspective view of an angle adjustment unit constituting a top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention. Figure 14 The diagram illustrates an exploded perspective view of an angle adjustment unit constituting a top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention.

[0090] Reference Figures 3 to 14 The pressing unit 200 is located at the front of the battery box 11. Figure 6 The battery compartment 11 can be pressed at the 8 o'clock position and may include a support frame 210, a pusher unit 220, a guide member 230, a first drive unit 240, and an angle adjustment unit 250.

[0091] The pressing unit 200 is located at the front of the battery box 11. Figure 5 (at the 6 o'clock position), and can be configured to perform forward and backward drive to firmly press the battery compartment 11 against the support unit 300 located at the rear. Here, in the forward and backward drive of the pressing unit 200, the forward drive is for moving towards the battery compartment 11 (towards) Figure 5The drive moves the battery box 11 away from the 12 o'clock position. Figure 5 The drive (moving the 6 o'clock position in the middle).

[0092] The support frame 210 is located at the front of the transmission unit 100 of the battery box 11. Figure 6 (at the 8 o'clock position), and can be configured as a support pusher unit 220, a guide member 230, a first drive unit 240 and an angle adjustment unit 250.

[0093] The pusher unit 220 can be connected to the support frame 210 via the angle adjustment unit 250 for positioning at the front of the battery box 11. The pusher unit 220 may include a pusher component 221, a centering component 222, a guide block 223, and a rotation shaft 224.

[0094] The pusher member 221 can be configured to press the battery compartment 11 into contact with a portion of the battery compartment 11. The pusher member 221 can be configured to transmit the pressing force to the battery compartment 11, causing the battery compartment 11 to move rearward ( Figure 8 (Move the 12 o'clock position in the middle).

[0095] The actuator component 221 can be on the other surface of its contact with the battery box 11 ( Figure 8 A first recess 221a is provided at the 12 o'clock position (in the image), and a portion of the battery box 11 is inserted into the first recess 221a. Here, the first recess 221a of the pusher member 221 is due to a portion of the pusher member moving inward ( Figure 8 The first recess 221a is recessed at the 6 o'clock position to allow a portion of the battery case 11 to be inserted into the first recess 221a, and the width of the first recess 221a can be configured to be smaller than the outer diameter of the battery case 11.

[0096] The other surface of the actuator component 221 ( Figure 8 The portion where the 12 o'clock position (in the image) and the first recess 221a connect to each other can be formed in a rounded shape. In another example, the portion where the other surface of the pusher member 221 and the first recess 221a connect to each other can be formed in an inclined shape corresponding to the curvature of the battery box 11.

[0097] In this case, the portion where the other surface of the pusher member 221 and the first recess 221a are connected to each other can be formed to have a curvature or inclination corresponding to the curvature of the battery case 11; however, the invention is not limited to this, and the portion can be formed in various shapes so as not to damage the battery case 11 when the pusher member 221 presses the battery case 11.

[0098] In particular, such as Figure 8 and Figure 9As shown, even if the battery case 11 supplied by the seating unit 120 is deviated from the central axis of the pusher member 221, the pair of curved or inclined portions connected to the first recess 221a have a structure that can firmly press against the battery case 11. Therefore, even when the pusher member 221 is driven forward, the battery case 11 will not rotate, and damage to the battery case, such as scratches, can be reduced.

[0099] In other words, if only a portion of the pair of curved or inclined portions connected to the first recess 221a is firmly pressed against the battery box 11, the battery box 11 may rotate in a direction in which there is no close contact between the battery box 11 and the pusher member 221 when the pusher member 221 is driven forward. This may result in misalignment between the electrode contacts and significantly increase the possibility of scratching.

[0100] Additionally, the actuator component 221 can be located on the other surface of its contact with the battery box 11. Figure 7 A second recess 221b is provided in the 1 o'clock position, and a part of the clamping member 122 is inserted into the second recess 221b.

[0101] The second recess 221b can be recessed to a width larger than the size of the clamping member 122, so that when the pusher member 221 is pushed forward ( Figure 7 When the 1 o'clock position is driven to press the battery box 11 and make contact with a part of the battery box 11, a part of the clamp member 122 is inserted into the second recess 221b.

[0102] Alternatively, it is preferable that the second recess 221b is recessed to a depth equal to or greater than the distance the battery case 11 moves backward, so that the battery case 11 can be pressed without interfering with the clamp member 122.

[0103] Furthermore, the actuator component 221 can be separated into an upper component and a lower component based on the second recess 221b, wherein the lower component may be provided with a recess into which a portion of the connecting portion 123 is inserted. The recess formed in the lower component may also be recessed to a depth equal to or greater than the distance by which the battery box 11 moves backward.

[0104] The centering member 222 is connected to one side of the actuator member 221. Figure 6 (8 o'clock position in the middle), wherein a first hole 222a can be formed in the centering member 222 at a position corresponding to the guide recess 223a of the guide block 223, and a second hole 222b can be formed in one end of the centering member, so that the rotation shaft 224 of the pusher unit 220 is inserted into the second hole.

[0105] For example, the first hole 222a may be formed to have a size corresponding to the width of the guide recess 223a in order to confirm the position of the guide member 230, a portion of which is inserted into the guide recess 223a.

[0106] The centering member 222 can be configured to connect the rotation shaft 224 and the pusher member 221 to each other, such that the pusher member 221 rotates via the rotation shaft 224 inserted into the second hole 222b. That is, the centering member 222 and the pusher member 221 can rotate about the rotation shaft 224.

[0107] The guide block 223 is disposed below the centering member 222, and the guide recess 223a can be formed corresponding to the first hole 222a in the centering member 222. A portion of the guide member 230 can be inserted into the guide recess 223a, and the guide recess 223a can be formed such that the actuator unit 220 is driven forward and backward along the guide member 230. In other words, the guide recess 223a can be formed in the direction in which the actuator unit 220 is driven forward and backward.

[0108] The guide recess 223a may include a gap portion 223a' having a width larger than the outer diameter of the guide member 230 and an alignment portion 223a'' having a width corresponding to the outer diameter of the guide member 230.

[0109] Here, the gap portion 223a' is formed to be positioned closer to the pusher member 221 than the alignment portion 223a'', and a more detailed description of the gap portion 223a'' and the alignment portion 223a'' will be given later.

[0110] The rotating shaft 224 can be inserted into a second hole 222b formed in one end of the centering member 222, so that the pusher unit 220 can rotate about the rotating shaft 224 in the conveying direction.

[0111] The rotating shaft 224 may include a central shaft member 224a, a first bearing member 224b configured to surround the outer peripheral surface of the shaft member 224a, and a shaft cover 224c configured to cover the top of the second hole 222b.

[0112] In this case, the second hole 222b can be formed with a hole size corresponding to the outer diameter of the first bearing member 224b to allow the insertion of the first bearing member 224b.

[0113] Although each of the second hole 222b and the first bearing member 224b is shown in the figure as having a circular shape, the second hole 222b and the first bearing member 224b can also be formed into corresponding polygonal shapes so that they can rotate together about the shaft member 224a. Therefore, the first bearing member 224b can be inserted into and connected to the second hole 222b, thereby allowing the actuator unit 220 to rotate together with the first bearing member 224b about the shaft member 224a. In this case, the first bearing members 224b can be arranged in multiple rows to correspond to the forming height of the second hole 222b.

[0114] The shaft cover 224c can be attached to one end of the centering member 222 to cover the upper part of the second hole 222b. The shaft cover 224c is formed to have a size larger than the outer diameter of the first bearing member 224b, i.e. the hole size of the second hole 222b, to prevent the shaft member 224a inserted through the second hole 222b and the first bearing member 224b from disengaging, and to seal the upper opening of the second hole 222b.

[0115] For example, the shaft cover 224c may include a first cover 224c' configured to prevent the inner ring (inner ring member) of the first bearing member 224b from disengaging from the shaft member 224a, and a second cover 224c'' configured to prevent the outer ring (outer ring member) of the first bearing member 224b from disengaging from the shaft member 224a. In this case, the first cover 224c' may have a diameter larger than the inner diameter of the inner ring of the first bearing member 224b and smaller than the outer diameter of the inner ring, and the second cover 224c'' may have an inner diameter larger than the inner diameter of the outer ring of the first bearing member 224b and an outer diameter larger than the outer diameter of the outer ring.

[0116] A portion of the guide member 230 is inserted into the guide recess 223a, and the guide member is configured to guide the guide block 223. Specifically, the guide shaft 231 may include a first guide shaft 231a with one side connected to the first support plate 241 and a second guide shaft 231b with one side connected to the other side of the first guide shaft 231a, wherein the first guide shaft 231a and the second guide shaft 231b can be detachably attached to each other. Of course, the guide member 230 may be a single guide shaft in which the first guide shaft 231a and the second guide shaft 231b are integral.

[0117] The second bearing member 232 can be positioned to partially wrap around the other side of the second guide shaft 231b, thereby minimizing friction with the guide recess 223a configured to guide the guide block 223.

[0118] During the forward and backward driving of the actuator unit 220, the guide member 230 allows the actuator unit 220 to rotate about the rotation axis 224 with the gap between the outer diameter of the guide member 230 and the width of the gap portion 223a' when it is located in the gap portion 223a' of the guide recess 223a, and prevents the actuator unit 220 from rotating about the rotation axis 224 when it is located in the alignment portion 223a'' of the guide recess 223a.

[0119] In other words, when the guide member 230 is located at the gap portion 223a', the pusher unit 220 can rotate about the rotation axis 224, and when the guide member 230 is located at the alignment portion 223a'', the pusher unit 220 can not rotate about the rotation axis 224.

[0120] Therefore, even if the battery box 11 is deviated from the predetermined position, the battery box 11 can be moved to the predetermined position by the guide recess 223a and the guide member 230. That is, when the pusher member 221 is driven forward, the guide recess 223a is guided by the guide member 230, thereby moving the battery box 11 forward while its position is aligned.

[0121] The first drive unit 240 can be connected to one side of the actuator unit 220. Figure 6 The first drive unit 240 may include a first support plate 241, a first guide rail 242, a first moving block 243, a second support plate 244, a first contact member 245, a first rotating block 246, and a first rod member 247.

[0122] The first support plate 241 can be fixed to the support frame 210. In this case, the first support plate 241 can be fixed in a direction orthogonal to the support frame 210 (x-axis direction), and the first guide rail 242 and the guide member 230 can be placed on the upper surface of the first support plate 241 and fixed to the upper surface of the first support plate 241.

[0123] The first guide rail 242 is disposed on the upper side of the first support plate 241 and can be configured to guide the linear movement of the actuator unit 220. Here, the linear movement of the actuator unit 220 can be a linear movement in the forward-backward driving direction (z-axis direction) of the actuator unit 220, which is orthogonal to the transmission direction (x-axis direction) of the battery transfer box 11.

[0124] The first guide rail 242 can be formed as a straight rail extending in the forward-backward driving direction of the actuator unit 220.

[0125] The first moving block 243 can be connected to the first guide rail 242 via an interlocking engagement or a convex-concave connection, so as to reciprocate in a slidable manner along a first linear motion range provided by the first guide rail 242. Here, the first linear motion range may be a segment corresponding to the extension length of the first guide rail 242 or a segment corresponding to the reciprocating motion length of the pusher unit 220, which is driven in the forward-backward direction with this reciprocating motion length to press the battery box 11.

[0126] The second support plate 244 is connected to the first moving block 243, and when the first moving block 243 moves linearly relative to the first guide rail 242, the second support plate 244 can also move linearly relative to the first guide rail 242 together with the first moving block 243.

[0127] Angle adjustment unit 250 is seated on the upper surface of second support plate 244, and first contact member 245 can be connected to the side surface of second support plate 244.

[0128] The first contact member 245 is located on the side surface of the second support plate 244. Figure 6 At the 5 o'clock position, and a downwardly open cutout 245a is provided in the lower edge of the first contact member 245.

[0129] Here, the first contact member 245 can also move linearly relative to the first guide rail 242 together with the first moving block 243.

[0130] The first rotating block 246 is rotatably connected to the side surface of the support frame 210. Figure 6 (at the 5 o'clock position), and a portion of the first rotating block can be inserted into the cutout portion 245a of the first contact member 245.

[0131] The first rotating block 246 can be configured to contact a portion of the cutout portion 245a of the first contact member 245 by rotation. When the first rotating block 246 moves forward ( Figure 6 When the first rotating block (at the 2 o'clock position) rotates and comes into contact with the cut portion 245a, it can move the first contact member 245 forward.

[0132] Additionally, when the first rotating block 246 moves backward ( Figure 6 When the first rotating block (at the 8 o'clock position) rotates and comes into contact with the cut portion 245a, it can cause the first contact member 245 to move backward.

[0133] The first rod member 247 is connected to one end of the first rotating block 246, and the first rotating block 246 can be rotated by the upward and downward drive of the first rod member 247.

[0134] For example, when the first rod member 247 is driven in the upward direction, the first rotating block 246 can rotate forward to move the first contact member 245 forward, and the first moving block 243 can move forward linearly relative to the first guide rail 242 by the forward drive of the first contact member 245.

[0135] Additionally, for example, when the first rod member 247 is driven in the downward direction, the first rotating block 246 can rotate backward to move the first contact member 245 backward, and the first moving block 243 can move linearly backward relative to the first guide rail 242 by the backward drive of the first contact member 245.

[0136] In other words, when the first rotating block 246 rotates by the upward and downward drive of the first rod member 247, the first contact member 245 can be driven forward and backward, and the first moving block 243 connected to the first contact member 245 can also move linearly forward and backward relative to the first guide rail 242.

[0137] Angle adjustment unit 250 can be disposed between the first drive unit 240 and the pusher unit 220 to adjust the pressing force and angle of the pusher unit 220.

[0138] The angle adjustment unit 250 may include a second guide rail 251, a second moving block 252, a first fixing member 253, a connecting block 254, a support shaft 255, an elastic member 256, a second fixing member 257, and a bolt member 258.

[0139] First, the second guide rail 251 is disposed on the upper side of the first drive unit 240 and can be configured to guide the linear movement of the actuator unit 220. More specifically, the second guide rail 251 can be disposed on the upper side of the second support plate 244.

[0140] In addition, the second guide rail 251 is configured to be parallel to the first guide rail 242 and can be formed into the shape of a straight rail extending along the forward-backward driving direction (z-axis direction) of the actuator unit 220.

[0141] The second moving block 252 can be interlocked to the second guide rail 251 to reciprocate along a second linear motion range provided by the second guide rail 251. Here, the second linear motion range may be a segment corresponding to the extension length of the second guide rail 251 or a segment corresponding to the length of the pressing force when the pusher unit 220 presses the battery box 11.

[0142] For example, the length corresponding to the pressing force can be the length at which the pusher unit 220 moves backward in response to the pressing force when the pusher unit 220 presses the battery box 11. Figure 13 The distance moved (from the 9 o'clock position in the image).

[0143] The second moving block 252 can be connected to the second guide rail 251 by interlocking or convex-concave connection so that it can move linearly relative to the second guide rail and slide relative to the second guide rail 251.

[0144] The first fixing member 253 can be fixed to the upper part of the first drive unit 240. In other words, the lower end of the first fixing member 253 can be fixed to the second support plate 244.

[0145] In this configuration, the first fixing member 253 may be provided with a third recess 253a into which a portion of the connecting block 254 is inserted. For example, the third recess 253a is formed by a portion of the first fixing member 253 being recessed downward from its upper side, and a portion of the connecting block 254 may be configured to move forward and backward relative to the third recess 253a.

[0146] In addition, the first fixing member 253 may have a third hole 253b and a fourth hole 253c in its two side edges, the support shaft 255 extends through the third hole 253b, and the bolt member 258 extends through the fourth hole 253c.

[0147] A connecting block 254 is disposed on the upper side of the second moving block 252, wherein one side of the connecting block is located on one side of the first fixing member 253, and the other side of the connecting block is located on the other side of the first fixing member 253. Specifically, the connecting block 254 has an approximately hexahedral shape, and a pair of second cutout portions 254a formed as inward recesses are provided in the two side edges of the connecting block 254. Due to the second cutout portions 254a and the third recess 253a of the first fixing member 253, a portion of the connecting block 254 can be located at the front of the first fixing member 253, and a portion of the connecting block can be located at the rear of the first fixing member 253.

[0148] Additionally, a portion of the connecting block 254 is connected and coupled to the upper side of the second moving block 252.

[0149] The support shaft 255 extends through the first fixing member 253 and can be arranged in pairs such that the two ends of the support shaft 255 extend from the front to the rear of a pair of second cutout portions 254a.

[0150] Specifically, refer to Figure 8 and Figure 14The first support shaft 255a extends through a third hole 253b formed in the edge of one side of the first fixing member 253, and the two ends of the first support shaft are connected to a pair of facing inner surfaces of the second cutout portion 254a. Additionally, the second support shaft 255b extends through another third hole 253b formed in the edge of the other side of the first fixing member 253, and the two ends of the second support shaft are connected to a pair of facing inner surfaces of another second cutout portion 254a.

[0151] The elastic member 256 includes a first elastic member 256a wound around the outside of a first support shaft 255a and a second elastic member 256b wound around the outside of a second support shaft 255b. The elastic member 256 can be configured to move rearward in response to the pressing force of the pusher unit 220 when the pusher unit 220 presses the battery compartment 11. Figure 13 The actuator unit 220, which moves forward (at the 9 o'clock position), provides forward ( Figure 13 The elastic force at the 3 o'clock position in the middle.

[0152] Preferably, the third hole 253b formed in the two side edges of the first fixing member 253 is sized such that the support shaft 255 can extend through the third hole 253b, but the elastic member 256 cannot extend through the third hole 253b.

[0153] The second fixing member 257 is connected to one side of the actuator unit 220. Figure 13 (at the 9 o'clock position), and the bolt member 258 can be inserted into and connected to the first fixing member 253 so as to contact the second fixing member 257.

[0154] The bolt member 258 may include a first bolt member 258a and a second bolt member 258b, which are respectively connected to the two side edges of the first fixing member 253.

[0155] Reference Figure 8 and Figure 9 The first bolt member 258a can be inserted into the 9 o'clock edge of the first fixing member 253 and connected to the 9 o'clock edge of the first fixing member 253 so as to contact one end of the second fixing member 257, and the second bolt member 258b can be inserted into the 3 o'clock edge of the first fixing member 253 and connected to the 3 o'clock edge of the first fixing member 253 so as to contact one end of the second fixing member 257.

[0156] At this time, the bolt member 258 can be inserted into the first fixing member 253 and connected to the first fixing member 253 through the fourth hole 253c formed in the two side edges of the first fixing member 253.

[0157] Therefore, the angle adjustment component 250 can be used to manually adjust the angle of the pusher unit 220 based on the difference between the length of the first bolt member 258a protruding from the fourth hole 253c of the first fixing member 253 and the length of the second bolt member 258b protruding from the fourth hole 253c of the first fixing member 253.

[0158] The support unit 300 is located at the rear of the battery box 11. Figure 8 The battery compartment 11, located at the 12 o'clock position, can be configured to support the battery box 11 that moves backward via the pressing unit 200.

[0159] The support unit 300 can be located on one surface that contacts the battery box 11. Figure 8 A fourth recess 310 is provided in the 6 o'clock position, which extends to the other side ( Figure 8 The fourth recess 310 is recessed at the 12 o'clock position, so that the battery box 11 is seated in the fourth recess 310.

[0160] The support unit 300 allows the battery case 11, which moves backward via the pressing unit 200, to be seated in the fourth recess 310 while the angle or distance between the electrode contacts 12a and the top cover 13 is controlled. As a result, the electrode contacts 12a of the battery case 11 can be tightly attached (seat) in a more accurate position, thereby minimizing welding defects between the electrode contacts 12a and the top cover 13.

[0161] The top cover retainer 400 may be configured to position the top cover 13 at the rear of the electrode tab 12a. The top cover retainer 400 may include a clamping unit 410 configured to hold the top cover 13 and a drive unit 420 configured to position the clamping unit 410 at the rear of the electrode tab 12a. The top cover retainer 400 may be provided in various ways that will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and therefore a more detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0162] Figure 15 The illustration shows a perspective view of the top cover support unit constituting the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention, as viewed from one side. Figure 16 This is a perspective view illustrating the top cover support unit constituting the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention, as viewed from another side. Additionally, Figure 17 The illustration shows a cross-sectional view of the support member constituting the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention, and Figure 18 This is an internal cross-sectional view of the first cylinder unit constituting the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention. Additionally, Figure 19 The illustration shows a forward-driving side view of the top cover support unit constituting the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention, and Figure 20 The illustration shows a rearward-driven side view of a top cover support unit constituting a top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention.

[0163] Reference Figures 3 to 5 and Figures 15 to 20 The top cover support unit 500 is configured to support the rear part of the top cover 13. Figure 15 (at the 1 o'clock position), and may include a support member 510, a second drive unit 520 and a third drive unit 530.

[0164] The support member 510 is located at the rear of the top cover 13 and can be configured to support the rear of the top cover 13. Here, "located at the rear of the top cover 13" means that when the top cover 13 is transferred by the top cover holder 400 to the rear of the electrode contact 12a, the support member 510 is located at the rear of the transferred top cover 13.

[0165] The support member 510 can contact a surface of the top cover 13 (the surface of the top cover opposite to the surface of the top cover welded to the electrode tab 12a) to support the rear of the top cover 13.

[0166] Additionally, the support member 510 may include a first connecting member 511 for connection to the second drive unit 520, wherein the first connecting member 511 supports a portion of the support member 510 and can be connected to the second drive unit 520. For example, the first connecting member 511 may be configured as an "L"-shaped bracket that supports a portion of the circumferential surface of the support member 510 while being wound around it.

[0167] Additionally, the support member 510 may have a front surface formed on the support member 510 that contacts the top cover 13. Figure 17 The first connecting hole 510a in the 3 o'clock position and formed on the side surface (e.g., its upper surface) of the support member 510. Figure 17 The first suction hole 510b is connected to the first connecting hole 510a at the 12 o'clock position. In this case, the first suction hole 510b of the support member 510 can be connected to the first suction unit 512.

[0168] The first suction unit 512 can suction gas or debris located on the side of the first connecting hole 510a, and will be described in more detail below.

[0169] The second drive unit 520 that drives the forward support member 510 may include a first cylinder unit 521, a drive member 522, a third support plate 523, a second connecting member 524, and a first position detection sensor 525.

[0170] The forward drive of the support member 510 is for moving towards the battery box 11 (towards) Figure 19 The drive (moving to the 9 o'clock position) and the rearward drive of the support member 510 are for moving away from the battery box 11 (towards) Figure 20 The drive (moving the 3 o'clock position in the middle).

[0171] First, the first cylinder unit 521 may include a first cylinder 521a configured to provide forward driving force to the support member 510 and a first housing 521b configured to receive the first cylinder 521a.

[0172] The first cylinder 521a is disposed in the first housing 521b, and the first housing 521b may have an internal space in which the first cylinder 521a can reciprocate.

[0173] The first cylinder 521a includes a first cylinder rod 521a' and a first cylinder head 521a'', wherein one end of the first cylinder rod 521a' can be connected to the drive member 522, and the first cylinder head 521a'' can be received in the internal space of the first housing 521b.

[0174] The internal space of the first housing 521b can be divided into the first a space 521b' and the first a' space 521b'' by the first cylinder head 521a''.

[0175] Therefore, the first a' space 521b'' can always be in a pressurized state, so that the first cylinder 521a received in the first housing 521b is always pushed forward ( Figure 19 (The 9 o'clock position in the middle) drive.

[0176] Additionally, the first housing 521b may have a first receiving recess 521b''' formed inwardly recessed in one of its side surfaces, and the first position detection sensor 525 may be disposed in the first receiving recess 521b'''.

[0177] Meanwhile, the first cylinder unit 521 can be configured as a hydraulic cylinder or a pneumatic cylinder as known to those skilled in the art, and the case where the first cylinder unit 521 is configured as a pneumatic cylinder will be described below.

[0178] The drive component 522 may include one side located in the first cylinder 521a. Figure 18 The vertical block 522a at the 3 o'clock position and the upper part connected to the vertical block 522a ( Figure 18 The horizontal block 522b is located at the 12 o'clock position. In other words, the drive member 522 can be configured to surround a side and an upper side of the first cylinder unit 521 by the vertical block 522a and the horizontal block 522b.

[0179] The vertical block 522a of the drive member 522 is connected to one side of the first cylinder 521a, and the first cylinder 521a can be configured to transmit forward driving force to the vertical block 522a in another direction.

[0180] The first cylinder unit 521 is connected to the vertical block 522a of the drive member 522 so that the first cylinder 521a is driven forward to the other side by a predetermined pressure. Figure 18 At the 9 o'clock position, the forward driving force is transmitted to the vertical block 522a, and the driving member 522 can be driven forward by the forward driving force transmitted from the first cylinder 521a.

[0181] The first cylinder unit 521 and the drive component 522 can be configured as benchtop cylinders known to those skilled in the art.

[0182] The third support plate 523 sits on the horizontal block 522b of the drive member 522 and can be driven forward and backward together with the drive member 522 when the drive member is driven forward and backward.

[0183] The second connecting member 524 is seated on the upper surface of the third support plate 523, and the second connecting member 524 seated on the upper surface of the third support plate 523 can be connected to the side surface of the first connecting member 511 so as to connect the support member 510 and the third support plate 523 to each other.

[0184] For example, the second connecting member 524 can be configured as an "L"-shaped bracket that connects the upper surface of the third support plate 523 and the side surface of the first connecting member 511 to each other.

[0185] The second connecting member 524 may have a first elongated hole 524a formed extending along the conveying direction (x-axis direction) of the battery box 11 in one surface of the second connecting member 524 which is seated on the third support plate 523, and a second elongated hole 524b formed extending along the vertical direction (y-axis direction) in another surface of the second connecting member 524 which is connected to the side surface of the first connecting member 511.

[0186] The positions of the support member 510 in the x-axis and y-axis directions can be adjusted via the first elongated hole 524a and the second elongated hole 524b. For example, when the support member 510 has an x-axis deviation from the top cover 13, the x-axis position of the second connecting member 524 relative to the third support plate 523 can be adjusted via the first elongated hole 524a, and when the support member 510 has a y-axis deviation from the top cover 13, the y-axis position of the first connecting member 511 relative to the second connecting member 524 can be adjusted via the second elongated hole 524b.

[0187] Additionally, although not shown in the figure, the support member 510 has an elongated hole (not shown) in one of its surfaces connected to the first connecting member 511, which extends in the forward-backward direction (z-axis direction) of the support member 510, and the z-axis position of the support member 510 can be adjusted by the elongated hole (not shown).

[0188] As described above, the first position detection sensor 525 can be disposed in the first receiving recess 521b''' of the first housing 521b to indirectly detect the position of the support member 510. That is, the first position detection sensor 525 can use a magnet embedded in the first cylinder 521a to detect the position of the first cylinder 521a, thereby detecting the position of the support member 510. For example, the magnet can be embedded in the first cylinder head 521a'' of the first cylinder 521a, and the first position detection sensor 525 can use a sensor coil and the magnet embedded in the first cylinder head 521a'' to detect the position of the first cylinder head 521a''.

[0189] The first position detection sensor 525 can transmit information signals indicating the detected position of the first cylinder 521a to the controller (not shown). The first position detection sensor 525 can transmit information about the measured position of the first cylinder 521a to the controller via wired or wireless means, and the controller can determine whether the support member 510 is located at a set position based on the position information received from the first position detection sensor 525.

[0190] Additionally, the controller (not shown) can check the position information of the support member 510 in real time based on the position information received from the first position detection sensor 525. If the position of the support member 510 deviates from a predetermined range, the controller can transmit a signal indicating an abnormality in the position of the support member 510 to the operator, and this signal can be displayed on a device monitor (e.g., a display unit) or transmitted to the operator's terminal (e.g., a mobile phone).

[0191] The controller performs overall control, ensuring the proper functioning of the components. The controller can be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of both. It can be implemented as a computing device (arithmetic unit) such as a microprocessor, but is not limited thereto, and can be implemented in any of the various forms apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0192] Meanwhile, the third drive unit 530 configured to drive the rearward support member 510 may include a second contact member 531, a first support block 532, a second rotating block 533, and a second rod member 534.

[0193] Specifically, the second contact member 531 is located on the side surface of the horizontal block 522b of the driving member 522, and the rear part of the second contact member ( Figure 20 A portion of the 3 o'clock position (in the diagram) can extend downwards. Here, the second contact member 531 can be connected to the drive member 522 so that it is driven together with the drive member 522 during forward and backward driving of the drive member.

[0194] The first support block 532 is connected to the support body unit 700 and can be located on the lower side of the first cylinder unit 521.

[0195] The second rotating block 533 is rotatably connected to the side surface of the first support block 532, and the second rotating block 533 can contact the downwardly extending portion of the second contact member 531 by rotation.

[0196] When rotating forward ( Figure 19 When rotating counterclockwise (in the direction of rotation), the second rotating block 533 is spaced apart from the second contact member 531, thereby not restricting the forward movement of the second contact member 531. Additionally, when rotating backward (in the direction of rotation), Figure 20 When rotating clockwise, the second rotating block 533 can contact the downwardly extending portion of the second contact member 531, thereby driving the second contact member 531 backward.

[0197] The second rod member 534 is connected to one end of the second rotating block 533, and the second rod member 534 can rotate the second rotating block 533 by driving it upward and downward.

[0198] The third drive unit 530 can transmit a rearward driving force to the support member 510 when the second rotating block 533 contacts the second contact member 531 through the upward drive of the second rod member 534.

[0199] For example, when the second rod member 534 is driven in the upward direction, the portion of the second rotating block 533 that contacts the second contact member 531 rotates backward to move the second contact member 531 backward, and the driving member 522 moves backward by the backward driving of the second contact member 531, thereby the support member 510 can be driven backward.

[0200] At this time, a predetermined air pressure (or hydraulic pressure) is constantly supplied to the first cylinder unit 521, and the second rotating block 533 can have a rotational force greater than the pressure supplied to the first cylinder unit 521, and can provide a rearward driving force to the second contact member 531 to move the second contact member 531 backward.

[0201] Furthermore, by operating the third drive unit 530, the second rotating block 533 is spaced apart from the second contact member 531 by the downward drive of the second rod member 534, thereby not restricting the forward movement of the support member 510. When the first cylinder unit 521 is constantly supplied with a predetermined air pressure (or hydraulic pressure) and therefore the third drive unit 530 does not restrict the forward movement of the support member 510, the support member 510 can be driven forward.

[0202] For example, when the second rod member 534 is driven in the downward direction, the portion of the second rotating block 533 that is in contact with the second contact member 531 rotates forward, thereby releasing the contact between the second rotating block and the second contact member 531, and the second contact member 531 moves forward together with the driving member 522, and thus the support member 510 can be driven forward.

[0203] Therefore, the forward driving force of the support member 510 is generated by the second drive unit 520 using air pressure, and the rearward driving force of the support member 510 depends on the third drive unit 530, which is a cam linkage structure. Therefore, even if the third drive unit 530 is not operated precisely, the support member 510 always advances to the same position to support the rear of the top cover 13, thereby minimizing welding defects.

[0204] Figure 21 This is a perspective view illustrating a welding unit constituting the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention, as viewed from one side. Figure 22 This is an enlarged perspective view illustrating the welding unit constituting the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention, as viewed from one side. Figure 23 This is a perspective view illustrating the welding unit constituting the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention, as viewed from another side. Additionally, Figure 24 This is a partially enlarged perspective view of the welding unit constituting the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention, when viewed from one side. Figure 25 This is a view showing the welding mask constituting the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention, when viewed from the rear.

[0205] Reference Figures 3 to 5 and Figures 21 to 25 The welding unit 600 can be configured to weld the electrode contact 12a and the top cover 13 together while pressing the electrode contact 12a firmly against the top cover 13 with a predetermined pressure.

[0206] The welding unit 600 may include a welding mask 610, a welding mask support unit 620, a load sensor 630, a fourth drive unit 640, an air supply unit 650, a fifth drive unit 660, a debris removal unit 670, a vacuum unit 680, and a temperature control unit 690. Additionally, the welding unit 600 includes a laser application unit (not shown) configured to apply laser light to the electrode contacts 12a and the top cover 13 to weld the electrode contacts 12a and the top cover 13 together.

[0207] First, the welding mask 610 can be configured to firmly press the electrode tab 12a against the top cover 13. One surface of the welding mask 610 that contacts the electrode tab 12a can protrude, and the protruding surface can be formed in a flat shape so as to firmly press the electrode tab 12a against the top cover 13.

[0208] Additionally, a laser passage hole 611 can be formed in the protruding surface of the welding mask 610, through which the laser passes for welding the electrode tabs 12a and the top cover 13 to each other.

[0209] Additionally, the welding mask 610 can be located on one side ( Figure 25 A second suction hole 612 is provided at the 3 o'clock position (in the image), the second suction hole 612 is configured to allow the internal space and the external space of the welding mask 610 to communicate with each other through the second suction hole 612, and the welding mask 610 can be positioned on the other side ( Figure 25 A third suction hole 613 is provided at the 9 o'clock position in the middle, which is configured to allow the internal space and the external space of the welding mask 610 to communicate with each other through the third suction hole 613.

[0210] The second suction unit 672 and the third suction unit 673 of the debris removal unit 670 can be connected to the second suction hole 612 and the third suction hole 613 of the welding mask 610, respectively, which will be described in more detail below.

[0211] The welding mask support unit 620 configured to support the welding mask 610 may include a second support block 621 and a height adjustment unit 622.

[0212] The second support block 621 is located on one side of the welding mask 610. Figure 22 The second support block 621 has a second connecting hole 621a that communicates with the laser through hole 611. Therefore, a laser applied from one side of the second support block 621 passes sequentially through the second connecting hole 621a and the laser through hole 611 to weld the electrode tab 12a and the top cover 13 to each other.

[0213] Additionally, the second support block 621 extends from one side of the welding mask 610, and one end of the second support block extends upward. The upwardly extending portion of the second support block 621 can be connected to the height adjustment unit 622.

[0214] The height adjustment unit 622 can be coupled to the top of the second support block 621 to adjust the vertical height of the second support block 621. In this case, the height adjustment unit 622 is configured to allow the second support block 621 to slide in the vertical direction (y-axis direction) and may include a height adjustment member 622a connected to the upper end of the upwardly extending portion of the second support block 621 to adjust the vertical height of the second support block 621.

[0215] Here, the height adjustment member 622a can be configured as a bolt member having a convex thread formed on its outer circumferential surface, and a hole or recess having a concave thread formed on its inner circumferential surface can be formed in the upper end of the second support block 621.

[0216] Therefore, the second support block 621 can be slidably moved up and down relative to the height adjustment unit 622 by the amount of rotation of the height adjustment member 622a, thereby adjusting the vertical (y-axis direction) position of the second support block.

[0217] The load sensor 630 is located on one side of the welding mask support unit 620 and can be configured to measure the load applied by the welding mask 610 to the electrode tab 12a. The load sensor 630 is located on one side surface of the height adjustment unit 622 and can be positioned at a z-axis position corresponding to a surface of the welding mask 610 that protrudes into contact with the electrode tab 12a.

[0218] Although the position of the load sensor 630 does not completely coincide with the center of the welding mask 610 due to the movement path of the laser beam, the value of the load applied by the welding mask 610 to the electrode patch 12a can be measured with maximum accuracy by minimizing the deviation from the central axis along which the welding mask 610 presses the electrode patch 12a.

[0219] Figure 26 The illustration shows a forward and backward driving side view of the welding unit constituting the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention, and Figure 27 This is an internal cross-sectional view of the second cylinder unit constituting the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention. Additionally, Figure 28 This is a view illustrating a method for a second position detection sensor to detect the position of a second cylinder when the top cover is normally positioned in the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention. Figure 29This is a view illustrating a method for a second position detection sensor to detect the position of a second cylinder when the top cover is not located in the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention.

[0220] Reference Figures 3 to 5 and Figures 21 to 29 One end of the load sensor 630 ( Figure 22 The 2 o'clock position is fixed, and the fourth drive unit 640 that drives the welding mask 610 forward or backward can be fixed to the support frame 210 of the pressing unit 200.

[0221] Here, the forward drive of the welding mask 610 is for moving toward the battery box 11 (towards) Figure 22 The drive for moving the welding mask 610 to the 8 o'clock position is to move it away from the battery box 11 (towards the 8 o'clock position). Figure 22 The drive (moving the 2 o'clock position in the middle).

[0222] The fourth drive unit 640 may include a fourth support plate 641, a third guide rail 642, a third moving block 643, a fifth support plate 644, a connecting plate 645, a third fixing member 646, a second cylinder unit 647, and a second position detection sensor 648.

[0223] The fourth support plate 641 is fixed to the upper end of the support frame 210. Figure 22 (at the 12 o'clock position), and the third guide rail 642 can be placed on the upper surface of the fourth support plate 641 and fixed to the upper surface of the fourth support plate 641.

[0224] The third guide rail 642 is disposed on the upper side of the fourth support plate 641 and can be configured to guide the linear movement of the welding mask 610. Here, the linear movement of the welding mask 610 can be in the forward-backward driving direction of the welding mask 610. Figure 3 Linear motion along the z-axis (in the forward-backward driving direction) Figure 3 The z-axis direction is orthogonal to the transmission direction of the battery box 11. Figure 3 (x-axis direction in the diagram).

[0225] The third guide rail 642 can be formed as a straight rail extending along the forward-backward driving direction of the welding mask 610.

[0226] The third moving block 643 can be interlocked to the third guide rail 642 so as to reciprocate along the third linear motion range provided by the third guide rail 642. Here, the third linear motion range may be a segment corresponding to the extension length of the third guide rail 642 or a segment corresponding to the length of the welding mask 610 reciprocating in the forward-backward direction to press the electrode tab 12a.

[0227] The third moving block 643 can be connected to the third guide rail 642 by interlocking or convex-concave connection so that it can move linearly relative to the third guide rail and slide relative to the third guide rail 642.

[0228] In addition, the fifth support plate 644 is connected to the third moving block 643, and when the third moving block 643 moves linearly relative to the third guide rail 642, the fifth support plate 644 can also move linearly relative to the third guide rail 642 together with the third moving block 643.

[0229] The connecting plate 645 is connected to the upper surface of the fifth support plate 644, and the connecting plate 645 can be vertically connected orthogonal to the fifth support plate 644. (See reference...) Figure 22 The horizontal plane of the fifth support plate 644 can be parallel to the xz plane, and the connecting plate 645 can be parallel to the xy plane.

[0230] The connecting plate 645 can be disposed on one side of the load sensor 630 to fix one end of the load sensor 630. Figure 22 (The position at 2 o'clock in the middle). That is to say, the connecting plate 645 can be configured to connect the fifth support plate 644 and the load sensor 630 to each other.

[0231] In addition, the third fixing member 646 can be fixedly connected to the fourth support plate 641, can be vertically connected orthogonal to the fourth support plate 641, and can extend from the fourth support plate 641 to a height corresponding to the connecting plate 645.

[0232] Therefore, the second cylinder unit 647 can be connected between the connecting plate 645 and the third fixed member 646. In this case, the third fixed member 646 can be configured as a floating connector. For example, the third fixed member 646, configured as a floating connector, can be connected to the second cylinder unit 647, and even if eccentricity occurs when the operating center of the second cylinder unit 647 and the operating center of the driven component do not coincide, it can compensate for the eccentricity, allowing the linear motion of the second cylinder unit 647 to be performed smoothly.

[0233] The second cylinder unit 647 may include a second cylinder 647a configured to provide forward or backward driving force to the welding mask 610 and a second housing 647b configured to receive the second cylinder 647a. Here, the second cylinder unit 647 may be configured as a pneumatic cylinder.

[0234] The second cylinder 647a can be connected to the third fixing member 646 to transmit a forward driving force to the connecting plate 645 in another direction, such that the welding mask 610 connected to the connecting plate 645 is driven forward. The second cylinder 647a may include a second cylinder rod 647a' and a second cylinder head 647a'', wherein one end of the second cylinder rod 647a'' can be connected to the third fixing member 646, and the second cylinder head 647a'' can be received in the internal space of the second housing 647b.

[0235] The internal space of the second housing 647b can be divided into a second space 647b' and a second space 647b'' by the second cylinder head 647a'' of the second cylinder 647a. Here, the second space 647b' can be formed on the other side where the connecting plate 645 is located. Figure 27 (at the 9 o'clock position), and the second space 647b'' can be formed on the side where the third fixing member 646 is located ( Figure 27 (The 3 o'clock position in the middle).

[0236] The second cylinder unit 647 can be configured such that the second cylinder 647a is driven forward and backward by the air pressure difference between the second a space 647b' and the second a' space 647b''. More specifically, in the second cylinder unit 647, when the air pressure in the second a space 647b' is higher than the air pressure in the second a' space 647b'', the second cylinder 647a can move towards the second a' space 647b'' by the air pressure difference, thereby transmitting a forward driving force to the connecting plate 645.

[0237] Furthermore, in the second cylinder unit 647, when the air pressure in the second a' space 647b'' is higher than the air pressure in the second a space 647b', the second cylinder 647a moves toward the second a space 647b' through the air pressure difference, thereby the second cylinder 647a can transmit a rearward driving force to the connecting plate 645.

[0238] The second housing 647b may have a second receiving recess 647b''' formed recessed to the other side in one of its side surfaces, and the second position detection sensor 648 may be disposed in the second receiving recess 647b'''.

[0239] A second position detection sensor 648 can be disposed on a side surface of the second housing 647b to detect the position of the welding mask 610. In this case, the second position detection sensor 648 can detect the position of the welding mask 610 by using a magnet embedded in the second cylinder 647a to detect the position of the second cylinder 647a. For example, the magnet can be embedded in the second cylinder head 647a'' of the second cylinder 647a.

[0240] The second position detection sensor 648 can transmit information signals indicating the detection position of the second cylinder 647a to the controller (not shown). The second position detection sensor 648 can transmit information about the measured position of the second cylinder 647a to the controller via wired or wireless means, and can determine the position information of the welding mask 610 in real time.

[0241] Additionally, based on the position information received from the second position detection sensor 648, the controller can perform deep learning to determine the location at the rear of the electrode patch 12a. Figure 28 The position of welding mask 610 when the top cover 13 is present at the 9 o'clock position (the position in the diagram) and the position of welding mask 610 when the top cover 13 is not present.

[0242] For example, when the top cover holder 400 is located at the rear of the electrode tab 12a and does not hold the top cover 13, the controller can determine, based on the position information received from the second position detection sensor 648, that the position of the welding mask 610 has deviated from the predetermined range and therefore the top cover 13 is not present at the rear of the electrode tab 12a, and can limit the application of laser from the laser application unit (not shown).

[0243] Therefore, it is possible to prevent the electrode contacts 12a from being welded when the top cover 13 is not present, thereby minimizing defects in the cylindrical battery cell 10.

[0244] The air supply unit 650 is configured to inject air into the interior space of the second housing 647b of the second cylinder unit 647, and may include a first air supply unit 651 and a second air supply unit 652.

[0245] The first air supply unit 651 may be configured to supply air to the second space 647b' of the second housing 647b. The first air supply unit 651 may include a first air supply line 651a, wherein the first air supply line 651a may be configured to connect the first air supply unit 651 and the second space 647b' to each other.

[0246] The first air supply unit 651 can supply air to or exhaust air from the second a space 647b' via the first air supply line 651a to regulate the air pressure in the second a space 647b'. In this case, the first air supply unit 651 can be configured as an electro-pneumatic regulator to automatically regulate the air pressure in the second a space 647b'.

[0247] Additionally, the second air supply unit 652 may be configured to supply air to the second a' space 647b'' of the second housing 647b. The second air supply unit 652 includes a second air supply line 652a, wherein the second air supply line 652a may be configured to connect the second air supply unit 652 and the second a' space 647b'' to each other.

[0248] The second air supply unit 652 can supply air to or exhaust air from the second air supply line 652a to regulate the air pressure in the second a' space 647b''. In this case, the second air supply unit 652 can be configured as a precision regulator to regulate the air pressure in the second a' space 647b''.

[0249] The air supply unit 650 can generate an air pressure difference between the second space 647b' and the second space 647b'' through the first air supply unit 651, so that the second cylinder unit 647 can be driven forward and backward through the air pressure difference between the second space 647b' and the second space 647b''.

[0250] For example, the air supply unit 650 can adjust the air pressure value of the second space 647b' to be greater than the air pressure value of the second space 647b'' through the first air supply unit 651, so that the second cylinder 647a transmits forward driving force to the connecting plate 645 due to the air pressure difference between the second space 647b' and the second space 647b'', thereby driving the welding mask 610 forward.

[0251] In addition, as another example, the air supply unit 650 can adjust the air pressure value of the second space 647b' to be less than the air pressure value of the second space 647b'' through the first air supply unit 651, so that the second cylinder 647a transmits a rearward driving force to the connecting plate 645 due to the air pressure difference between the second space 647b' and the second space 647b'', thereby driving the welding mask 610 backward.

[0252] Furthermore, the first air supply unit 651 and the second air supply unit 652 can be respectively configured as an electro-pneumatic regulator and a precision regulator, such that when a pressure equal to or higher than a predetermined air pressure value is applied, air is discharged to adjust the pressure value to the predetermined air pressure value. In addition, the first air supply unit 651 and the second air supply unit 652 can automatically compensate for the pressure difference between the second a space 647b' and the second a' space 647b'' to control the forward or backward drive of the second cylinder 647a.

[0253] Additionally, the first air supply unit 651 and the second air supply unit 652 can be connected to the controller (not shown) via wired or wireless means. If the air pressure values ​​of the second a space 647b' and the second a' space 647b'' fluctuate to a predetermined pressure deviation, the controller can transmit a signal indicating an abnormal pressure to the operator, and this signal can be displayed on the device monitor (e.g., a display unit) or transmitted to the operator's terminal (e.g., a mobile phone).

[0254] Additionally, when it is determined that the cylindrical battery box 11 has not yet been transferred to the welding position, the controller (not shown) can adjust the air pressure value through the first air supply unit 651 and the second air supply unit 652, so that the second cylinder 647a maintains the welding mask 610 in a rearward state due to the air pressure difference between the second a space 647b' and the second a' space 647b''.

[0255] Figure 30 This is a side view illustrating another method of rearward driving of a welding unit constituting a top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention.

[0256] Reference Figures 3 to 5 and Figures 21 to 30 The fifth drive unit 660 of the welding unit 600 is configured to drive the welding mask 610 backward, and may include a third contact member 661, a third rotating block 662 and a third rod member 663.

[0257] In particular, the fifth drive unit 660 can be used when the equipment malfunctions or for purposes such as maintenance.

[0258] The third contact member 661 is located on the side surface of the fifth support plate 644, and the rear part of the third contact member ( Figure 28 A portion of the 3 o'clock position can be extended downwards.

[0259] Here, the third contact member 661 can be connected to the fifth support plate 644 so that it is driven together with the fifth support plate 644 during forward and backward driving. At this time, the fifth support plate 644 is connected to the third moving block 643 and is driven forward and backward together with the third moving block 643, and therefore the third contact member 661 can also be driven forward and backward together with the third moving block 643.

[0260] The third rotating block 662 is rotatably connected to the side surface of the support frame 210 and can contact the downwardly extending portion of the third contact member 661 by rotation.

[0261] When rotating backward ( Figure 29 When rotating clockwise (in the clockwise direction), the third rotating block 662 can contact the downwardly extending portion of the third contact member 661, thereby driving the third contact member 661 backward. Additionally, when rotating forward (in the clockwise direction), Figure 26 When rotating counterclockwise (in the direction of rotation), the third rotating block 662 is spaced apart from the third contact member 661, thereby not restricting the forward movement of the third contact member 661.

[0262] The third lever member 663 is connected to one end of the third rotating block 662, and the third lever member 663 can rotate the third rotating block 662 by driving it upward and downward.

[0263] The fifth drive unit 660 can transmit a rearward driving force to the welding mask 610 when the third rotating block 662 contacts the third contact member 661 through the upward and downward driving of the third rod member 663.

[0264] For example, when the third rod member 663 is driven in the upward direction, the portion of the third rotating block 662 that contacts the third contact member 661 rotates backward to move the third contact member 661 backward, and the fifth support plate 644 moves backward by the backward drive of the third contact member 661, thereby the welding mask 610 can be driven backward.

[0265] At this time, the third rotating block 662 can have a rotational force greater than the forward pressure supplied to the second cylinder unit 647, and can provide a rearward driving force to the third contact member 661 to move the third contact member 661 backward.

[0266] Additionally, the fifth drive unit 660 can be configured such that the third rotating block 662 is spaced apart from the third contact member 661 by the downward drive of the third rod member 663, thereby not restricting the forward movement of the welding mask 610. When the third rotating block 662 is spaced apart from the third contact member 661 and therefore the forward movement of the third contact member 661 is not restricted, the welding mask 610 can be driven forward by the second cylinder unit 647.

[0267] Figure 31 The illustration shows an enlarged perspective view of the debris removal unit constituting the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention, as viewed from one side. Figure 32 This is a cross-sectional view of a welding mask, illustrating the first operating mode of the vacuum unit constituting the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention. Figure 33 It is a cross-sectional view of the welding mask, illustrating the second operating mode of the vacuum unit constituting the top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention.

[0268] Reference Figures 3 to 5 and Figures 21 to 33 The debris removal unit 670 may be configured to inject and / or draw in gas to remove debris (spatters) generated during welding, and more specifically, may be configured to remove debris present in the welding mask 610.

[0269] The debris removal unit 670 may include a protective gas injection unit 671 and a suction unit, the suction unit including a second suction unit 672 and a third suction unit 673.

[0270] One end of the shielding gas injection unit 671 may be located within the welding mask 610, and the shielding gas injection unit may inject inert gas into the welding mask 610 to prevent oxygen from entering the welding mask 610 during welding. The shielding gas injection unit 671 may be configured to block oxygen, thereby improving weld quality and reducing debris. Here, debris may be spatter generated during welding.

[0271] Additionally, the protective gas injection unit 671 can extend through the second connecting hole 621a formed in the second support block 621, such that one end of the protective gas injection unit is located in the welding mask 610 to prevent oxygen from entering the welding mask 610. The inert gas injected by the protective gas injection unit 671 can be any of carbon dioxide (CO2), argon (Ar), helium (He2), and nitrogen (N2), more preferably nitrogen (N2).

[0272] The suction unit may include a second suction unit 672 and a third suction unit 673 configured to suction debris generated in the welding mask 610. The second suction unit 672 may be connected to one side formed on the welding mask 610. Figure 25 The second suction hole 612 (located at the 3 o'clock position) is connected to the interior of the welding mask 610, and the third suction unit 673 is connected to the other side formed on the welding mask 610. Figure 25 The third suction hole 613 (at the 9 o'clock position) is connected to the interior of the welding mask 610.

[0273] In this case, a concave thread may be formed on the inner surface of each of the second suction hole 612 and the third suction hole 613, and a convex thread may be formed on the outer surface of one end of each of the second suction unit 672 and the third suction unit 673, so that the second suction hole 612 and the second suction unit 672 can be threadedly engaged with each other, and the third suction hole 613 and the third suction unit 673 can be threadedly engaged with each other; however, the connection between each suction hole and the corresponding suction unit is not limited to this.

[0274] The second suction unit 672 and the third suction unit 673 can be connected to a vacuum unit 680 that generates a vacuum in the welding mask 610. In this case, the vacuum unit 680 can also be connected to a first suction unit 512 connected to the support member 510 to generate a vacuum in a first connecting hole 510a formed in the front surface of the support member 510 through the first suction unit 512.

[0275] Reference Figure 32 The vacuum unit 680 can operate in a first operating mode to remove debris generated during the welding of electrode contacts 12a and top cover 13 by suction. Here, the first operating mode can be a mode in which the vacuum unit 680 generates a vacuum in the welding mask 610 by means of the second suction unit 672 and the third suction unit 673.

[0276] In the first operating mode, the vacuum unit 680 can use the second suction unit 672 and the third suction unit 673 to suction debris generated during the welding of the electrode contacts 12a and the top cover 13 located in the welding mask 610.

[0277] Additionally, refer to Figure 33 The vacuum unit 680 can operate in a second operating mode to remove debris remaining in the welding mask 610 that was not removed in the first operating mode. Here, the second operating mode can be a mode in which the vacuum unit 680 generates a vacuum in the welding mask 610 by means of the first suction unit 512, the second suction unit 672, and the third suction unit 673 while the welding mask 610 and the support member 510 are in contact with each other.

[0278] At this time, the first connecting hole 510a formed in the front surface of the support member 510 can be positioned to correspond to the laser through hole 611 formed in the welding mask 610. That is, when the vacuum unit 680 operates in the second operating mode, the front surface of the support member 510 and the front surface of the welding mask 610 can contact each other, thereby allowing the first connecting hole 510a of the support member 510 and the laser through hole 611 of the welding mask 610 to communicate with each other.

[0279] Furthermore, in the second operating mode of the vacuum unit 680, the shielding gas injection unit 671 can inject inert gas into the welding mask 610. Therefore, debris accumulated in the welding mask 610 may float in the welding mask 610 due to the inert gas injected by the shielding gas injection unit 671.

[0280] In other words, the vacuum unit 680 can operate in a second operating mode with the first connecting hole 510a and the laser through hole 611 connected to each other. In this second operating mode, the protective gas injection unit 671 can inject inert gas into the welding mask 610, and the first suction unit 512, the second suction unit 672, and the third suction unit 673 can generate a vacuum in the welding mask 610. Therefore, debris floating in the welding mask 610 through the protective gas injection unit 671 can be suctioned out by the three suction units, thereby cleaning the interior of the welding mask 610.

[0281] Figure 34 This is a perspective view illustrating a temperature control unit constituting a top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention, and Figure 35 The diagram illustrates an exploded perspective view of a temperature control unit constituting a top cover welding apparatus for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention.

[0282] Reference Figures 3 to 5 and Figures 21 to 35 The temperature control unit 690 can be configured to control the temperature of the welding mask 610 so that the temperature does not rise to a predetermined temperature or higher. For example, the predetermined temperature can be set below the temperature measured when debris trapped in the welding mask 610 adheres to the welding mask 610.

[0283] The temperature regulating unit 690 can be mounted on the second support block 621 of the welding mask support unit 620. More specifically, the temperature regulating unit 690 can be mounted on the upper surface of the welding mask 610 and from the upper surface of the welding mask 610 to one side ( Figure 31 On the upper surface of the second support block 621 (at the 2 o'clock position in the middle).

[0284] The temperature regulation unit 690 may include a Peltier element 691, a heat dissipation component 692, a cooling fan 693, a mounting component 694, a temperature sensor 695, and a temperature controller 696.

[0285] The Peltier element 691 can be sized to sit on the upper surface of the welding mask 610 and the upper surface of the second support block 621. The Peltier element 691 can be configured such that when current flows between two different conductive materials, one terminal absorbs heat and the other terminal dissipates heat.

[0286] The heat dissipation component 692 can be positioned adjacent to the heat dissipation terminal of the Peltier element 691 to dissipate the heat generated by the Peltier element 691.

[0287] In the Peltier element 691, the heat-absorbing terminal can face downwards ( Figure 34 The 6 o'clock position is positioned to contact the welding mask 610 and the second support block 621, and the heat dissipation terminal can face upwards. Figure 34 The heat sink 692 is positioned at the 12 o'clock position and can be placed on the upper side of the Peltier element 691.

[0288] The heat dissipation component 692 may include a plurality of heat dissipation fins 692a, which are configured to project upward on the lower surface of the heat dissipation component 692 that contacts the Peltier element 691 in order to dissipate heat upward. Components readily apparent in the art may be used as the heat dissipation component 692, and therefore a more detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0289] A cooling fan 693 may be located above the heat dissipation member 692 to dissipate heat from the heat dissipation member 692 to the outside. In this case, the cooling fan 693 may be mounted on the upper side of a mounting member 694 that extends upward from the second support block 621.

[0290] The seating member 694 may include a leg member 694a extending upward from the second support block 621 and a seating plate 694b disposed on the upper side of the leg member 694a.

[0291] The support leg member 694a can extend from the second support block 621 to the upper side of the heat dissipation member 692, such that the seat plate 694b is disposed on the upper side of the heat dissipation member 692. In this case, it is desirable to provide multiple support leg members 694a, so that the seat plate 694b is stably disposed and the cooling fan 693 is stably seated on the upper side of the seat plate 694b.

[0292] The seat plate 694b can be configured to connect at least two of the plurality of leg members 694a to each other. In this case, it is desirable to arrange the seat plate 694b such that the space for the heat dissipation member 692 and the space for the cooling fan 693 are not separated from each other.

[0293] For example, when four leg members 694a are provided, the seat plate 694b can connect the leg members 694a located in the same horizontal direction (e.g., the x-axis direction or the z-axis direction) to each other. In another example, the seat plate 694b can connect the four leg members 694a to each other, and a hole can be provided in the central portion of the seat plate 694b to help prevent separation between the heat dissipation member 692 and the cooling fan 693.

[0294] Therefore, the cooling fan 693 can be configured to be spaced a predetermined distance from the heat dissipation component 692, so that the cooling fan 693 can rotate without contacting the heat dissipation component 692, and the heat from the heat dissipation component 692 can be easily dissipated to the outside.

[0295] Additionally, temperature sensor 695 can measure the temperature of welding mask 610 and provide the measured temperature to temperature controller 696. In this case, temperature sensor 695 can be configured as a contact temperature sensor to measure the temperature of welding mask 610 in direct contact with it. In another example, temperature sensor 695 can be configured as a non-contact temperature sensor to measure the temperature of welding mask 610 without contact with it.

[0296] Temperature sensor 695 can be connected to temperature controller 696 via wired or wireless connection to provide the measured temperature to temperature controller 696. Temperature controller 696 can transmit the temperature information of solder mask 610 to the outside in real time based on the received temperature information, and can use deep learning functions to determine the temperature information of solder mask 610 to control the on / off of Peltier element 691.

[0297] For example, if the temperature of the welding mask 610 received from the temperature sensor 695 is equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature, the temperature controller 696 can supply current to the Peltier element 691, so that heat from the welding mask 610 and the second support block 621 can be absorbed by the heat-absorbing terminals of the Peltier element 691 and dissipated by the heat-dissipating terminals. Furthermore, if the temperature of the welding mask 610 received from the temperature sensor 695 is lower than the predetermined temperature, the temperature controller 696 can stop supplying current to the Peltier element 691 to control the heat absorption and dissipation of the Peltier element 691.

[0298] The following describes a method for welding the top cover of a cylindrical battery cell using a top cover welding apparatus having the aforementioned configuration.

[0299] Reference Figures 3 to 35 The top cover welding method for a cylindrical battery cell according to the present invention includes: (S1) conveying the battery case 11 to one side or the other side by a conveying unit 100; (S2) positioning the top cover 13 at the rear of the electrode contact 12a by a top cover holder 400; (S3) supporting the rear of the top cover 13 by a top cover support unit 500; (S4) pressing the battery case 11 backward by a pressing unit 200; and (S5) welding the top cover 13 and the electrode contact 12a to each other by a welding unit 600.

[0300] In step (S3), the top cover support unit 500 can drive the support member 510 forward toward one surface of the top cover 13 via the second drive unit 520 so that the support member 510 supports the rear of the top cover 13.

[0301] In step (S4), the pressing unit 200 drives the pusher unit 220 forward toward the battery box 11 via the first driving unit 240. At this time, the pusher unit 220 can control the position of the battery box 11 when pressing the battery box 11 toward the support unit 300, so that the electrode contact 12a corresponds to the welding position of the top cover 13.

[0302] Additionally, step (S4) may include the welding unit 600 pressing the electrode contact 12a toward the top cover 13 so that the electrode contact 12a and the top cover 13 are in close contact with each other. At this time, the welding unit 600 may drive the welding mask 610 forward toward the electrode contact 12a through the fourth driving unit 640 so that the electrode contact 12a and the top cover 13 are in close contact with each other.

[0303] After step (S5), the pressing unit 200 can drive the pusher unit 220 rearward via the first drive unit 240 so that the pusher unit is spaced apart from the battery box 11. Additionally, the top cover support unit 500 can drive the support member 510 rearward via the third drive unit 530 so that the support member is spaced apart from the top cover 13. Furthermore, the welding unit 600 can drive the welding mask 610 rearward via the fourth drive unit 640 or the fifth drive unit 660 so that the welding mask is spaced apart from the electrode tab 12a.

[0304] Additionally, in step (S5), the vacuum unit 680 can operate in a first operating mode to extract debris generated during welding via the second suction unit 672 and the third suction unit 673.

[0305] Furthermore, after step (S5), the vacuum unit 680 can operate in a second operating mode to suction debris present in the welding mask 610 through the first suction unit 512, the second suction unit 672, and the third suction unit 673 while the welding mask 610 and the support member 510 are in contact with each other. In this case, the second operating mode is preferably performed when the electrode tab 12a and the top cover 13 are not inserted between the welding mask 610 and the support member 510, and the laser through hole 611 of the welding mask 610 and the first connecting hole 510a of the support member 510 are in communication with each other.

[0306] Furthermore, in the second operating mode, the protective gas injection unit 671 can inject inert gas into the welding mask 610, causing the debris accumulated in the welding mask 610 to float in the welding mask 610.

[0307] In steps (S2) to (S5), the transfer of the battery box 11 to one side or the other side via the transfer unit 100 can be temporarily suspended, and after step (S5), steps (S1) to (S5) can be repeated. In addition, if necessary, after step (S5), the second operating mode of the vacuum unit 680 can be performed with the welding mask 610 and the support member 510 in contact with each other.

[0308] Although the specific details of the invention have been described in detail, those skilled in the art will understand that the detailed description only discloses preferred embodiments of the invention and therefore does not limit the scope of the invention. Consequently, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes and modifications are possible without departing from the scope and concept of the invention, and it will be apparent that such changes and modifications fall within the scope of the appended claims.

[0309] (Description of reference numerals in the attached figures)

[0310] 10: Cylindrical battery cell

[0311] 11: Battery Box

[0312] 12: Electrode assembly 12a: Electrode contact

[0313] 13: Top Cover

[0314] 100: Transmission Unit

[0315] 110: Conveyor Pipeline

[0316] 120: Seating Unit

[0317] 121: Seating plate; 122: Clamping component

[0318] 123: Connection part

[0319] 200: Pressing unit

[0320] 210: Support frame

[0321] 220: Actuator Unit

[0322] 221: Actuator component

[0323] 221a: first recessed portion 221b: second recessed portion

[0324] 222: Centered component

[0325] 222a: First hole; 222b: Second hole

[0326] 223: Guide block 223a: Guide recess

[0327] 223a': Gap portion 223a'': Alignment portion

[0328] 224: Rotation axis

[0329] 224a: Shaft component; 224b: First bearing component

[0330] 224c: Shaft cover

[0331] 224c': First cap; 224c'': Second cap

[0332] 230: Guiding component

[0333] 231: Guide shaft

[0334] 231a: First guide shaft; 231b: Second guide shaft

[0335] 232: Second bearing component

[0336] 240: First drive unit

[0337] 241: First support plate; 242: First guide rail

[0338] 243: First moving block; 244: Second support plate

[0339] 245: First contact member; 245a: First cut portion

[0340] 246: First rotating block

[0341] 247: First member

[0342] 250: Angle Adjustment Unit

[0343] 251: Second guide rail; 252: Second moving block

[0344] 253: First fixed component

[0345] 253a: Third recess 253b: Third hole

[0346] 253c: Fourth hole

[0347] 254: Connecting block 254a: Second cut section

[0348] 255: Support shaft

[0349] 255a: First support shaft; 255b: Second support shaft

[0350] 256: Elastic Component

[0351] 256a: First elastic member; 256b: Second elastic member

[0352] 257: Second fixing component

[0353] 258: Bolted components

[0354] 258a: First bolt component; 258b: Second bolt component

[0355] 300: Support unit; 310: Fourth recess.

[0356] 400: Top cover retainer

[0357] 410: Fixture unit; 420: Drive unit

[0358] 500: Top cover support unit

[0359] 510: Supporting components

[0360] 510a: First connecting hole; 510b: First suction hole

[0361] 511: First connecting member; 512: First suction unit

[0362] 520: Second drive unit

[0363] 521: First Cylinder Unit

[0364] 521a: Cylinder 1

[0365] 521a': First cylinder rod; 521a'': First cylinder head

[0366] 521b: First housing

[0367] 521b': Space 1a 521b'': Space 1a'

[0368] 521b''': First receiving recess

[0369] 522: Driving component

[0370] 522a: Vertical block; 522b: Horizontal block

[0371] 523: Third support plate

[0372] 524: Second connecting member

[0373] 524a: First elongated hole; 524b: Second elongated hole

[0374] 525: First position detection sensor

[0375] 530: Third Drive Unit

[0376] 531: Second contact member; 532: First support block

[0377] 533: Second rotating block; 534: Second rod component

[0378] 600: Welding Unit

[0379] 610: Welding mask

[0380] 611: Laser through hole; 612: Second suction hole

[0381] 613: Third suction port

[0382] 620: Welding mask support unit

[0383] 621: Second support block; 621a: Second connecting hole

[0384] 622: Height adjustment unit; 622a: Height adjustment component

[0385] 630: Load sensor

[0386] 640: Fourth Drive Unit

[0387] 641: Fourth support plate; 642: Third guide rail

[0388] 643: Third moving block; 644: Fifth support plate

[0389] 645: Connecting plate; 646: Third fixing component

[0390] 647: Second Cylinder Unit

[0391] 647a: Second cylinder

[0392] 647a': Second cylinder rod; 647a'': Second cylinder head

[0393] 647b: Second shell

[0394] 647b': Space 2a 647b'': Space 2a'

[0395] 647b''': Second receiving recess

[0396] 648: Second position detection sensor

[0397] 650: Air Supply Unit

[0398] 651: First air supply unit; 652: Second air supply unit

[0399] 660: Fifth Drive Unit

[0400] 661: Third contact component; 662: Third rotating block

[0401] 663: Third member

[0402] 670: Debris Removal Unit

[0403] 671: Protective gas injection unit; 672: Second suction unit

[0404] 673: Third suction unit

[0405] 680: Vacuum Unit

[0406] 690: Temperature control unit

[0407] 691: Peltier element

[0408] 692: Heat dissipation component; 692a: Heat dissipation fins

[0409] 693: Cooling fan

[0410] 694: Seating component

[0411] 694a: Leg component; 694b: Seating plate

[0412] 695: Temperature sensor

[0413] 696: Temperature Controller

[0414] 700: Support body unit

Claims

1. A welding apparatus for a top cover of a cylindrical battery cell, the top cover welding apparatus comprising: A conveying unit configured to convey a cylindrical battery box, wherein an electrode assembly having outwardly exposed electrode contacts is received in the battery box. A pressing unit is located at the front of the battery compartment and is configured to press the battery compartment. A support unit located at the rear of the battery compartment, the support unit being configured to support the battery compartment; A top cover retainer configured to position the top cover at the rear of the electrode tab; A top cover support unit configured to support the rear portion of the top cover; as well as A welding unit is configured to weld the electrode contacts and the top cover to each other, wherein... The welding unit includes: A welding mask configured to ensure tight contact between the electrode tabs and the top cover; and A debris removal unit configured to remove debris generated during welding by injecting gas and / or suctioning debris.

2. The top cover welding equipment according to claim 1, wherein, The debris removal unit includes: A protective gas injection unit configured to inject an inert gas into the welding mask to prevent oxygen from entering the welding mask; and A suction unit configured to suction debris generated in the welding mask.

3. The top cover welding equipment according to claim 2, wherein, The suction unit configured to extract debris generated in the welding mask includes a second suction unit and a third suction unit, and The welding mask is provided with: The second suction port is configured to connect the interior of the welding mask and the second suction unit to each other; as well as The third suction hole is configured to connect the interior of the welding mask and the third suction unit to each other.

4. The top cover welding equipment according to claim 2, wherein, The welding mask is provided with laser through holes configured to allow laser light used to weld the electrode tabs and the top cover to pass through the laser through holes.

5. The top cover welding equipment according to claim 4, wherein, The top cover support unit includes a support member configured to support the rear portion of the top cover, and The support member has a first through hole formed in one surface of the support member at a position corresponding to the laser through hole.

6. The top cover welding equipment according to claim 5, wherein, The support member has a first suction hole in its side surface that communicates with the first connecting hole, and The first suction hole is connected to the first suction unit.

7. The top cover welding equipment according to claim 6, wherein, The welding unit includes a vacuum unit connected to the first suction unit, the second suction unit, and the third suction unit, the vacuum unit being configured to create a vacuum.

8. The top cover welding equipment according to claim 7, wherein, The vacuum unit operates in a first operating mode to extract debris generated during welding using the second and third suction units while welding the electrode contacts and the top cover.

9. The top cover welding equipment according to claim 7, wherein, The vacuum unit operates in a second operating mode to extract debris present in the welding mask through the first suction unit, the second suction unit, and the third suction unit when the welding mask and the support member are in contact with each other.

10. The top cover welding equipment according to claim 9, wherein, In the second operating mode, the protective gas injection unit injects inert gas into the welding mask.

11. The top cover welding equipment according to claim 2, wherein, The inert gas is any one of carbon dioxide (CO2), argon (Ar), helium (He2), and nitrogen (N2).

12. The top cover welding equipment according to claim 11, wherein, The inert gas is nitrogen (N2).

13. A method for welding a top cover for a cylindrical battery cell using a top cover welding apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12, the top cover welding method comprising: Step S1: The battery box is transferred to one side or the other side via the transfer unit; Step S2: Position the top cover at the rear of the electrode contacts using the top cover retainer; Step S3: The rear part of the top cover is supported by the top cover support unit; Step S4: Press the battery compartment backward using the pressing unit; as well as Step S5: The top cover and the electrode contacts are welded together by the welding unit.

14. The top cover welding method according to claim 13, wherein, In step S5, the vacuum unit of the welding unit operates in a first operating mode to extract debris generated during welding via a second suction unit and a third suction unit.

15. The top cover welding method according to claim 13, wherein, After step S5, the vacuum unit of the welding unit operates in a second operating mode to extract debris present in the welding mask by means of a first suction unit, a second suction unit, and a third suction unit while the welding mask and the support member are in contact with each other.

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