Methods and related devices for drawing negative pressure

Abstract

This application provides a method and related apparatus for vacuuming. The method includes: when a battery enters a loading buffer tank, controlling a first gas storage unit to connect with the loading buffer tank, and controlling the opening of a valve connecting a first vacuum pump and the loading buffer tank to vacuum the loading buffer tank; when the pressure in the loading buffer tank reaches a target pressure, controlling the opening of a first isolation door between the loading buffer tank and the process chamber, and sending the battery from the loading buffer tank into the process chamber; closing the first isolation door to allow the battery to undergo vacuuming in the process chamber. This method significantly improves the efficiency of the vacuuming process, thereby increasing the battery manufacturing efficiency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of battery technology, and in particular to a method and apparatus for drawing negative pressure. Background Technology

[0002] The negative pressure extraction process promotes electrolyte wetting, removes air bubbles and moisture, and ensures a good appearance. It is an indispensable core process in the manufacturing of modern high-quality lithium-ion batteries, playing a crucial role in improving battery consistency, cycle life, and safety. However, the current negative pressure extraction process is time-consuming, severely limiting the production efficiency of lithium-ion batteries. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application provides a method and related apparatus for drawing negative pressure, which can reduce the time required for the negative pressure drawing process.

[0004] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a method for drawing negative pressure, including:

[0005] When the battery enters the feeding buffer tank, the first gas storage unit is connected to the feeding buffer tank, and the valve connecting the first vacuum pump to the feeding buffer tank is opened to evacuate the feeding buffer tank; the first gas storage unit includes at least one gas storage tank, and each gas storage tank stores a preset negative pressure;

[0006] When the pressure in the feeding buffer tank reaches the target pressure, the first isolation door between the feeding buffer tank and the process chamber is opened, and the battery is sent from the feeding buffer tank into the process chamber; the pressure in the process chamber is the target pressure;

[0007] The first isolation door is closed to allow the battery to undergo negative pressure treatment in the process chamber.

[0008] In some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0009] The second isolation door between the process compartment and the unloading buffer tank is opened; the pressure in the unloading buffer tank is the target pressure.

[0010] The battery is transferred from the process compartment into the unloading buffer tank, and the second isolation door is closed.

[0011] The vacuum in the feeding buffer tank is broken, and the battery is sent out of the feeding buffer tank when the pressure in the feeding buffer tank is the same as the external pressure.

[0012] In some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0013] The system controls the second gas storage unit to connect with the feeding buffer tank, and controls the second vacuum pump to open the valve connecting the feeding buffer tank to evacuate the feeding buffer tank; the second gas storage unit includes at least one gas storage tank; each gas storage tank stores a preset negative pressure;

[0014] When the pressure in the feeding buffer tank reaches the target pressure, the second gas storage unit is disconnected from the feeding buffer tank, and the valve connecting the second vacuum pump to the feeding buffer tank is closed.

[0015] In some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0016] When the pressure in the gas storage tank of the first gas storage unit is not the preset negative pressure, control the first vacuum pump and / or the external system to evacuate the gas storage tank of the first gas storage unit; so that the pressure in the gas storage tank of the first gas storage unit reaches the preset negative pressure;

[0017] And / or,

[0018] When the pressure in the gas storage tank of the second gas storage unit is not the preset negative pressure, the second vacuum pump and / or external system are controlled to evacuate the gas storage tank of the second gas storage unit so that the pressure in the gas storage tank of the second gas storage unit reaches the preset negative pressure.

[0019] In some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0020] Monitor the pressure in the process chamber;

[0021] When the pressure in the process chamber is not the target pressure, the first vacuum pump and / or the second vacuum pump are controlled to evacuate the process chamber so that the pressure in the process chamber reaches the target pressure.

[0022] In some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0023] When the first isolation door and / or the second isolation door are in the open state, if an obstruction is detected under the first isolation door and / or the second isolation door, the first isolation door and / or the second isolation door shall be prohibited from closing.

[0024] And / or,

[0025] After the first isolation door and / or the second isolation door are opened, the foolproof device corresponding to the first isolation door and / or the second isolation door is controlled to open, so that the foolproof device locks the first isolation door and / or the second isolation door in the open state.

[0026] In some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0027] The battery is secured by a clamp, allowing it to move between the loading buffer tank, the process compartment, and the unloading buffer tank while the clamp is in a fixed state.

[0028] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide an electronic device, including a processor, a transceiver, and a memory; the processor is communicatively connected to both the transceiver and the memory.

[0029] The memory stores computer-executed instructions;

[0030] The transceiver communicates and interacts with external devices.

[0031] The processor executes computer execution instructions stored in the memory, causing the processor to perform the first aspect and / or various possible implementations of the first aspect as described above.

[0032] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a computer-readable storage medium storing computer-executable instructions, which, when executed by a processor, are used to implement the first aspect and / or various possible implementations of the first aspect.

[0033] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide a computer program product, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the first aspect and / or various possible implementations of the first aspect.

[0034] The negative pressure extraction method and related apparatus provided in this application, when the battery enters the loading buffer tank, control the first gas storage unit to connect with the loading buffer tank, and control the opening of the connecting valve between the first vacuum pump and the loading buffer tank to perform vacuum extraction on the loading buffer tank. The first gas storage unit includes at least one gas storage tank, each storing a preset negative pressure. When the pressure in the loading buffer tank reaches the target pressure, control the opening of the first isolation door between the loading buffer tank and the process chamber, and send the battery from the loading buffer tank into the process chamber. The pressure in the process chamber is the target pressure. The first isolation door is then closed to allow the battery to undergo negative pressure extraction in the process chamber. The loading buffer tank rapidly increases the vacuum level through the gas storage tank, and then the vacuum pump completes the final vacuum extraction, shortening the negative pressure extraction time. The process chamber maintains a constant negative pressure environment, and no additional vacuum extraction or pressure holding is required after the battery enters. This greatly improves the efficiency of the negative pressure extraction process, thereby improving the battery manufacturing efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0035] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this application.

[0036] Figure 1 A schematic diagram illustrating a negative pressure extraction scenario provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0037] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a feeding buffer tank provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a feeding buffer tank provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 4 A schematic flowchart illustrating a negative pressure extraction method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a negative pressure extraction process provided in this application embodiment. Figure 1 ;

[0041] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a negative pressure extraction process provided in this application embodiment. Figure 2 ;

[0042] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of a negative pressure extraction process provided in this application embodiment. Figure 3 ;

[0043] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a negative pressure extraction process provided in this application embodiment. Figure 4 ;

[0044] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of vacuum filling provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0045] Figure 10 A schematic diagram of data transmission provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0047] The accompanying drawings illustrate specific embodiments of this application, which will be described in more detail below. These drawings and descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the concept in any way, but rather to illustrate the concept of this application to those skilled in the art through reference to particular embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0048] Exemplary embodiments will now be described in detail, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. When the following description relates to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numbers in different drawings denote the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with this application. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of this application as detailed in the appended claims.

[0049] In the embodiments of this application, the terms "first" and "second" are used to distinguish identical or similar items with essentially the same function and effect, without limiting their order. Those skilled in the art will understand that the terms "first" and "second" do not limit the quantity or execution order, and that the terms "first" and "second" do not necessarily imply that they are different.

[0050] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of this application, the terms "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate examples, illustrations, or descriptions. Any embodiment or design scheme described as "exemplary" or "for example" in this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or design schemes. Specifically, the use of terms such as "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner.

[0051] The vacuum process refers to the process of creating a negative pressure environment by drawing a vacuum inside the battery before sealing it.

[0052] The positive electrode, negative electrode, and separator of a lithium-ion battery are all porous materials with numerous tiny pores inside. After electrolyte injection at atmospheric pressure, the electrolyte relies on natural penetration and capillary action to wet these pores, a very slow and incomplete process. If wetting is insufficient, "dry spots" (areas not in contact with the electrolyte) will exist. After a vacuum process, the internal pressure of the battery is much lower than the external atmospheric pressure. When the vacuum is released, the external atmospheric pressure instantly "forces" the electrolyte into every tiny pore of the electrodes and separator, greatly accelerating the wetting speed, improving the uniformity and thoroughness of wetting, and ensuring that all active materials can effectively participate in the electrochemical reaction.

[0053] During the electrolyte filling process of lithium-ion batteries, some air is inevitably introduced, forming bubbles. These bubbles hinder the effective wetting of the electrolyte and expand due to heat during battery charging and discharging, leading to increased internal pressure and affecting battery performance and safety (such as bulging). A negative pressure extraction process can effectively remove these gases.

[0054] Lithium-ion batteries are extremely sensitive to moisture (requiring control at the ppm level). Moisture reacts with lithium salts (such as LiF6) in the electrolyte to produce harmful HF (hydrofluoric acid), which corrodes electrode materials, leading to gas generation, capacity decay, and safety hazards. Although electrolyte injection is performed in a dry environment, trace amounts of moisture may still remain in the materials and the environment. A negative pressure extraction process can remove these residual trace amounts of moisture and humidity.

[0055] If there is residual gas inside the battery, it will expand and contract with temperature changes after sealing, causing the battery casing to bulge slightly (commonly known as "bulging"), affecting the product's appearance and customer experience. Vacuum sealing ensures a flat battery appearance.

[0056] In summary, the negative pressure extraction process promotes wetting, removes air bubbles, removes moisture, and ensures appearance. It is an indispensable core process in the manufacturing of modern high-quality lithium-ion batteries and plays a vital role in improving battery consistency, cycle life, and safety.

[0057] Currently, the negative pressure extraction process mainly includes three stages: feeding, negative pressure extraction and exhaust, and unloading.

[0058] During the loading stage, after the process chamber is prepared and opened, the robot puts the battery (cell) into the process chamber from the loading area. Then, the cell clamping cylinder in the process chamber positions and fixes the battery, and the process chamber door is closed.

[0059] During the negative pressure extraction and exhaust phase, the vacuum pump connected to the process chamber begins to evacuate the process chamber. When the pressure (vacuum degree) in the process chamber reaches the target pressure (e.g., -85 kPa), the vacuum pump stops operating and begins pressure holding. After a preset pressure holding time (e.g., 2 minutes), the process chamber venting valve opens to break the vacuum in the process chamber, allowing the pressure in the process chamber to return to atmospheric pressure.

[0060] During the unloading stage, after the process chamber is opened, the cell clamping cylinder in the process chamber releases the fixing of the battery, and the robot takes the battery out of the process chamber and puts it into the unloading area.

[0061] As can be seen from the above process, the process chamber is only evacuated by opening the vacuum pump. It needs to be evacuated from 0 to the target pressure of -85 kPa and then held for a specified process time before the vacuum is broken. The entire negative pressure exhaust process takes a long time to complete, which seriously restricts the production efficiency of lithium-ion batteries.

[0062] Furthermore, the loading and unloading of battery cells in the process chamber are handled by robots. When the battery clamping cylinder in the chamber loosens, the battery cell will tilt, and during the process of the robot retrieving the battery cell from the chamber, the robot's grippers may easily puncture the battery cell.

[0063] In view of this, embodiments of this application provide a method and related apparatus for drawing negative pressure. In the stages of drawing negative pressure and venting, the process time is shortened by drawing vacuum in stages, and the battery is protected by clamps during battery handling to reduce the risk of battery damage.

[0064] The technical solution of this application and how the technical solution of this application solves the above-mentioned technical problems are described in detail below with specific embodiments. These specific embodiments can be combined with each other, and the same or similar concepts or processes may not be described again in some embodiments. The embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0065] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a negative pressure extraction scenario provided in an embodiment of this application, as shown below. Figure 1 As shown, it includes:

[0066] The system includes a feeding buffer tank, a process chamber, a discharging buffer tank, a first gas storage unit, a second gas storage unit, vacuum pump 1, and vacuum pump 2.

[0067] The first gas storage unit and the second gas storage unit each include at least one gas storage tank. It should be understood that... Figure 1 The diagram shows the first and second gas storage units, each containing four gas storage tanks. This application does not limit the number of gas storage tanks included in the first and second gas storage units.

[0068] refer to Figure 1 Vacuum pump 1 is connected to each gas storage tank in the first gas storage unit, and also to the loading buffer tank and the process compartment. Vacuum pump 1 is used to perform vacuuming on each gas storage tank, the loading buffer tank, and the process compartment in the first gas storage unit. The process compartment can be referred to as a space capsule.

[0069] Each gas storage tank in the first gas storage unit is connected to the feeding buffer tank. Each gas storage tank in the first gas storage unit is used to perform vacuuming on the feeding buffer tank.

[0070] Vacuum pump 2 is connected to each gas storage tank in the second gas storage unit, as well as to the material feeding buffer tank. Vacuum pump 2 is used to perform vacuuming on each gas storage tank and the material feeding buffer tank in the second gas storage unit.

[0071] Each gas storage tank in the second gas storage unit is connected to the material feeding buffer tank. Each gas storage tank in the second gas storage unit is used to perform vacuuming on the material feeding buffer tank.

[0072] Optionally, vacuum pump 2 can also be connected to the process chamber to perform vacuuming of the process chamber.

[0073] Optionally, the process chamber can also be equipped with an independent vacuum pump to perform vacuuming treatment on the process chamber.

[0074] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a feeding buffer tank provided in an embodiment of this application, as shown below. Figure 2 As shown, it includes:

[0075] 1. Cover plate tensioning cylinder, 2. Lifting door 1 safety sensor, 3. Anti-fooling cylinder, 4. Exhaust propulsion servo, 5. Blocking cylinder, 6. Cover plate tensioning cylinder, 7. Anti-fooling cylinder, 8. Lifting door 2 safety sensor, 9. Material tray position detection sensor, 10. Lifting door 2 cylinder, 11. Lifting door 1 cylinder.

[0076] There are four cover plate tensioning cylinders, located at the four corners of the cover plate, used to lock the cover plate to ensure a reliable seal of the buffer container.

[0077] Safety sensor 2 for lifting door 1 is installed below lifting door 1 on the outside of the cavity. It detects whether there is an obstruction below lifting door 1 through a transparent glass plate. It is used as a safety condition for lifting door 1 to close. Lifting door 1 is only allowed to close when the sensor does not detect an obstruction.

[0078] The foolproof cylinder 3 is used to prevent the safety lifting door 1 from falling accidentally after the lifting door 1 is opened.

[0079] There are two exhaust propulsion servos 4, located on both sides of the cavity, which push the tray into the space chamber. There are three positions: Position 1 is the initial position: when the tray enters the buffer tank, the exhaust propulsion servo is in the initial position, positioning the tray; Position 2 is the propulsion position: the position where the buffer tank is pushed into the space chamber; Position 3 is the safety position: after the tray is pushed into the space chamber, the servo returns to the safety position (position 3) to close the lifting door 2, without waiting for the servo to return to the initial position (position 1) before closing the lifting door 2, thus enabling early door closing and improving cycle time.

[0080] There are two blocking cylinders 5 in total, which are used to prevent the pallet from hitting the lifting door 2 or rushing into the space capsule when the pallet is entering the buffer tank, and play a limiting role in the pallet.

[0081] There are 6 cover plate tensioning cylinders, a total of 4, distributed at the 4 corners of the cover plate, which lock the cover plate to ensure the reliable sealing of the space capsule.

[0082] The foolproof cylinder 7 is used to prevent the safety lifting door 2 from falling accidentally after the lifting door 2 is opened.

[0083] Safety sensor 8 for lifting door 2 is installed below the lifting door 2 on the outside of the cavity. It detects whether there is an obstruction below the lifting door 2 through a transparent glass plate. It is used as a safety condition for the lifting door 2 to close. The lifting door 2 is only allowed to close when the sensor does not detect an obstruction.

[0084] The material tray position detection sensor 9 is used to detect the presence or absence of the buffer filling tray.

[0085] The lifting door has two cylinders (10) and is used to isolate the feeding buffer tank from the space capsule.

[0086] The lifting door 1 cylinder 11 is used to isolate the feeding buffer tank from the external environment.

[0087] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a feeding buffer tank provided in an embodiment of this application, as shown below. Figure 3 As shown, it includes:

[0088] 12. Space capsule discharge blocking cylinder, 13. Space capsule discharge tray detection sensor, 14. Lifting door cylinder 3, 15. Lifting door safety sensor 3, 16. Foolproof cylinder, 17. Cover plate tensioning cylinder, 18. Tray, 19. Blocking cylinder, 20. Exhaust ejection servo, 21. Foolproof cylinder, 22. Cover plate tensioning cylinder, 23. Lifting door cylinder 4, 24. Tray position detection sensor, 25. Lifting door safety sensor 4.

[0089] The space capsule discharge blocking cylinder 12 is installed near the unloading buffer position of the space capsule and is used to limit the tray when the loading buffer is filled and vented and the servo pusher is pushed into the space capsule.

[0090] The material discharge tray detection sensor 13 is installed near the material discharge buffer position of the space capsule to detect whether there is a tray at the 13th position of the space capsule.

[0091] The lifting door has 3 cylinders and 14, which are used to isolate the material buffer tank from the space capsule.

[0092] Safety sensor 15 for lifting door 3 is installed below lifting door 3 on the outside of the cavity. It detects whether there is an obstruction below lifting door 3 through a transparent glass plate. It is used as a safety condition for lifting door 3 to close. Lifting door 3 is allowed to close only when the sensor does not detect an obstruction.

[0093] The foolproof cylinder 16 is used to prevent the safety lifting door 3 from falling accidentally. After the lifting door 3 is opened, the foolproof cylinder 2 extends to support the lifting door 3 and prevent the lifting door 3 from falling accidentally and injuring people.

[0094] There are four cover plate tensioning cylinders (17 in total), located at the four corners of the cover plate, used to lock the cover plate to ensure the reliable sealing of the spacecraft.

[0095] Pallet 18, a fixture for moving products, each pallet can hold 8 pieces of products.

[0096] There are two blocking cylinders (19 in total) to prevent the tray from hitting the lifting door (3) or rushing into the space capsule when the tray enters the buffer. They limit the movement of the tray.

[0097] There are two exhaust ejection servos, 20 in total, located on both sides of the cavity. They are used to hook the tray in the space capsule into the material buffer tank. There are three positions: Position 1 is the initial position: after the tray is hooked into the buffer tank, the exhaust ejection servo is in the initial position, which limits the tray; Position 2 is the hooking position: the exhaust propulsion servo moves to the space capsule to hook the tray; Position 3 is the safety position: the lifting door 3 is closed and will not press on the actuator of the exhaust propulsion servo. This position is closer to the space capsule than Position 1 (initial position). Before the material buffer tank without a tray needs to hook the tray into the space capsule, it needs to be evacuated. The entire evacuation process takes about 3-5 seconds. The exhaust propulsion servo can be moved to Position 3 (safety position) to shorten the time to hook the tray at Position 2.

[0098] The foolproof cylinder 21 is used to prevent the lifting door 4 from falling accidentally and injuring people. After the lifting door 4 is opened, the foolproof cylinder 1 extends to support the lifting door 4 and prevent the lifting door 4 from falling accidentally and injuring people.

[0099] There are 22 cover plate tensioning cylinders, a total of 4, distributed at the 4 corners of the cover plate, which lock the cover plate to ensure reliable sealing of the buffer container.

[0100] The lifting door has 4 cylinders and 23, which are used to isolate the material buffer tank from the external environment.

[0101] The material tray position detection sensor 24 is used to detect whether the buffer filling tray is present.

[0102] Safety sensor 25 for lifting door 4 is installed below lifting door 4 on the outside of the cavity. It detects whether there is an obstruction below lifting door 4 through a transparent glass plate. It is used as a safety condition for lifting door 4 to close. Lifting door 4 is only allowed to close when the sensor does not detect an obstruction.

[0103] Based on the above embodiments, the following is combined with Figure 4 The negative pressure extraction method provided in the embodiments of this application will be described.

[0104] Figure 4 This is a schematic flowchart of the negative pressure extraction method provided in the embodiments of this application, as shown below. Figure 4 As shown, it includes:

[0105] S401. When the battery enters the feeding buffer tank, control the first gas storage unit to connect with the feeding buffer tank, and control the first vacuum pump to open the connecting valve with the feeding buffer tank to evacuate the feeding buffer tank.

[0106] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1As shown, before the battery enters the loading buffer tank, the loading buffer tank is at the target pressure (e.g., -85 kPa). Therefore, in order to feed the battery into the loading buffer tank from the outside, it is necessary to ensure that the air pressure in the loading buffer tank is basically the same as the external environment; otherwise, the isolation door 1 (also known as the lifting door) between the loading buffer tank and the outside will not be able to open due to lateral force. Therefore, the vacuum in the loading buffer tank needs to be broken first. After the vacuum in the loading buffer tank is broken, the isolation door 1 opens, the robot feeds the battery into the loading buffer tank, and then the isolation door 1 closes.

[0107] For example, refer to Figure 5 After confirming that there are no batteries in the loading buffer tank, that the isolation door 2 between the loading buffer tank and the process compartment is closed, and that the connecting valves between the loading buffer tank and each gas storage tank and vacuum pump 1 in the first gas storage unit are closed, the venting valve of the loading buffer tank is opened to vent the vacuum in the loading buffer tank. After the pressure in the loading buffer tank returns to atmospheric pressure, the venting valve of the loading buffer tank is closed, the isolation door 1 is opened, and the robot is controlled to send the battery into the loading buffer tank before closing the isolation door 1.

[0108] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 6 After confirming that the battery has entered the feeding buffer tank and that isolation doors 1 and 2 are closed, the connecting valves between the feeding buffer tank and each gas storage tank in the first gas storage unit are opened, and the connecting valve between the vacuum pump 1 and the feeding buffer tank is opened to perform vacuuming on the feeding buffer tank.

[0109] In the first gas storage unit, each gas storage tank is pre-stored with a preset negative pressure (such as -60 kPa). After opening the connecting valve between the feeding buffer tank and each gas storage tank in the first gas storage unit, the pressure in the feeding buffer tank can be drawn to an extremely low pressure in a very short time. Then, the pressure in the feeding buffer tank is drawn to the target pressure (such as -85 kPa) based on the vacuum pump 1.

[0110] For example, the first gas storage unit includes four gas storage tanks, each pre-stored with a negative pressure of -60 kPa. After being connected to the feeding buffer tank for approximately 1 second, the feeding buffer tank can be changed from 0 kPa to -45 kPa. Then, vacuum pump 1 evacuates the feeding buffer tank from -45 kPa to the target value of -85 kPa. This method significantly reduces the time required to evacuate the feeding buffer tank to the target pressure.

[0111] Optionally, the vacuum pump 1 can be continuously operated to evacuate the feeding buffer tank by opening the connection valve between the feeding buffer tank and the vacuum pump 1.

[0112] In some embodiments, after the connection valve between the feeding buffer tank and each gas storage tank in the first gas storage unit is opened for a preset time (e.g., 1 second), the connection valve can be closed. When the pressure in the feeding buffer tank is drawn to the target pressure, the connection valve between the feeding buffer tank and the vacuum pump 1 is closed.

[0113] S402. When the pressure in the feeding buffer tank reaches the target pressure, control the opening of the first isolation door between the feeding buffer tank and the process compartment, and send the battery from the feeding buffer tank into the process compartment.

[0114] In some embodiments, the pressure in the process chamber is always maintained at the target pressure. When the pressure in the feeding buffer tank reaches the target pressure, the first isolation door (isolation door 2) between the feeding buffer tank and the process chamber can be opened to send the battery from the feeding buffer tank into the process chamber.

[0115] For example, such as Figure 7 As shown, after confirming that there are batteries in the feeding buffer tank and that the pressure of the feeding buffer tank has reached the target pressure, the control isolation door 2 is opened, and after confirming that the number of material trays in the process compartment is less than its upper limit, the exhaust servo mechanism sends the batteries into the process compartment.

[0116] S403. Close the first isolation door to allow the battery to undergo negative pressure treatment in the process chamber.

[0117] In some embodiments, after the battery is sent into the process chamber and the servo mechanism is confirmed to have returned to its initial position, the isolation door 2 is closed to allow the battery to undergo negative pressure treatment in the process chamber.

[0118] In some embodiments, multiple tray positions are sequentially arranged in the process compartment, and each tray position can hold multiple batteries.

[0119] For example, the process compartment has 13 tray positions arranged sequentially, each tray position can hold 8 batteries. Based on a design cycle of 1.5 seconds for a single product, the cycle of 8 products on a tray is 1.5 x 8 = 12 seconds. The time for the battery to move from position 1 to position 13 in the space compartment is 12 x 13 = 156 seconds, which is greater than the preset pressure holding time of 2 minutes, thus meeting the process requirements. No additional pressure holding is required, thereby further improving the efficiency of negative pressure extraction from the battery.

[0120] S404. The second isolation door between the process compartment and the unloading buffer tank of the control unit is opened, the battery is sent from the process compartment into the unloading buffer tank, and the second isolation door is closed.

[0121] In some embodiments, when the battery in the process compartment is fed into the unloading buffer tank, it is necessary to ensure that the air pressure in the unloading buffer tank is basically the same as the negative pressure in the space capsule; otherwise, the second isolation door (isolation door 3) between the process compartment and the unloading buffer tank will be unable to open due to lateral force. If the pressure in the unloading buffer tank is detected to be different from the target pressure, the unloading buffer tank needs to be evacuated.

[0122] For example, the second gas storage unit is connected to the feeding buffer tank, and the valve connecting the second vacuum pump to the feeding buffer tank is opened to evacuate the feeding buffer tank; the second gas storage unit includes at least one gas storage tank; each gas storage tank stores a preset negative pressure; when the pressure in the feeding buffer tank reaches the target pressure, the second gas storage unit is disconnected from the feeding buffer tank, and the valve connecting the second vacuum pump to the feeding buffer tank is closed.

[0123] For example, refer to Figure 1 After confirming that there are no batteries in the feeding buffer tank and that the isolation door 3 and the isolation door 4 between the feeding buffer tank and the outside are closed, the connecting valves between the feeding buffer tank and each gas storage tank in the second gas storage unit are opened, and the connecting valve between the vacuum pump 2 and the feeding buffer tank is opened to perform vacuuming on the feeding buffer tank.

[0124] In the second gas storage unit, each gas storage tank is pre-stored with a preset negative pressure (such as -60 kPa). After opening the connecting valve between the feeding buffer tank and each gas storage tank in the second gas storage unit, the pressure in the feeding buffer tank can be drawn to an extremely low pressure in a very short time. Then, the pressure in the feeding buffer tank is drawn to the target pressure (such as -85 kPa) based on the vacuum pump 2.

[0125] refer to Figure 8 After confirming that the pressure in the unloading buffer tank is at the target pressure, open isolation door 3. Once it is confirmed that there is a tray (with the battery located in the tray) in the process compartment, the exhaust servo mechanism pulls the tray from the process compartment into the unloading buffer tank. After confirming that the exhaust servo mechanism has returned to its initial position, close isolation door 3.

[0126] In some embodiments, after the pallet is pulled into the unloading buffer tank, it needs to be sent from the unloading buffer tank to the outside for the next process step. Since the outside environment is at normal pressure and the unloading buffer tank is at the target pressure, the unloading buffer tank needs to be devastated.

[0127] After breaking the vacuum in the feeding buffer tank, open the isolation door 4 between the feeding buffer tank and the outside. The external cylinder will then remove the tray from the feeding buffer tank. After confirming that the tray has been removed, close the isolation door 4.

[0128] In summary, the negative pressure extraction method provided in this application rapidly increases the vacuum level of the loading buffer tank through a gas storage tank, and then the vacuum pump completes the final vacuum extraction, shortening the negative pressure extraction time. The process chamber maintains a constant negative pressure environment, eliminating the need for additional vacuum extraction and pressure holding after the battery enters. This significantly improves the efficiency of the negative pressure extraction process, thereby increasing the battery manufacturing efficiency.

[0129] Furthermore, the batteries are secured by clamps during their movement from the external environment to the loading buffer tank, through the loading buffer tank, the process compartment, and the unloading buffer tank, as well as from the unloading buffer tank to the external environment. Both the robot and the servo mechanism move the clamps during battery transfer without contacting the batteries, effectively reducing the risk of damage during transport.

[0130] In some embodiments, after the loading buffer tank and the unloading buffer tank are evacuated, the pressure values ​​of the gas storage tanks in the first gas storage unit and the second gas storage unit rise, requiring vacuum replenishment so that the loading buffer tank and the unloading buffer tank can be evacuated again.

[0131] For example, when the pressure in the gas storage tank of the first gas storage unit is not a preset negative pressure, the first vacuum pump and / or an external system are controlled to evacuate the gas storage tank of the first gas storage unit so that the pressure in the gas storage tank of the first gas storage unit reaches the preset negative pressure.

[0132] For example, when the pressure in the gas storage tank of the second gas storage unit is not the preset negative pressure, the second vacuum pump and / or the external system are controlled to evacuate the gas storage tank of the second gas storage unit so that the pressure in the gas storage tank of the second gas storage unit reaches the preset negative pressure.

[0133] Taking the first gas storage system as an example, refer to Figure 9 Confirm the pressure value of each gas storage tank. When the pressure value is greater than the target pressure, open the connection valve between the gas storage tank and vacuum pump 1 to allow the vacuum pump to evacuate the gas storage tank. When the pressure value of the gas storage tank reaches the target pressure, close the connection valve between the gas storage tank and vacuum pump 1 to complete the vacuum replenishment of the gas storage tank.

[0134] In some embodiments, the pressure in the process chamber may fluctuate during the process, and the pressure in the process chamber needs to be monitored to ensure the success rate of the process.

[0135] For example, the pressure in the process chamber is monitored; when the pressure in the process chamber is not the target pressure, the first vacuum pump and / or the second vacuum pump are controlled to evacuate the process chamber so that the pressure in the process chamber reaches the target pressure.

[0136] For example, if the target negative pressure of the process chamber is -85 kPa, when it exceeds -80 kPa, the connecting valve between the process chamber and vacuum pump 1 or vacuum pump 2 is opened to start evacuation. When it falls below -90 kPa, the venting valve of the process chamber is opened to start venting, ensuring that the negative pressure of the process chamber is maintained at the target value ±5 kPa throughout the entire production process.

[0137] In some embodiments, the process compartment can accommodate multiple pallets, but the actual cavity is not transparent. Therefore, it is impossible to visually observe how many pallets are currently in the process compartment or whether each pallet contains products, which is detrimental to the material handling by on-site production personnel. Therefore, by transmitting pallet data, information such as the pallet number at each location in the process compartment, the presence or absence of battery cells on the pallet, the pallet's entry time, the pallet's exit time, and the QR code of each product on the pallet can be obtained.

[0138] For example, such as Figure 10 As shown, an array Data with a length of 13 is created to store the various locations in the storage process compartment. Each array data contains the pallet number, the presence or absence of materials on the pallet, the pallet's entry time into the compartment, the pallet's exit time from the compartment, and an array of QR codes for the 8 products on the pallet.

[0139] Date[1] represents the data at the first position in the process compartment, Date[2] represents the data at the second position in the process compartment, ... Date

[13] represents the data at the thirteenth position in the process compartment. The “data transfer flag” is set to ON when the loading buffer venting propulsion servo pushes the pallet into the process compartment. When the pallet moves to the next position, the data from the previous position is transferred to that position. Among them, the data of the last position (such as Date

[13] ) is cleared when the process compartment discharge pallet moves to the unloading buffer.

[0140] In some embodiments, to further enhance safety during the process, safety devices are also installed at each isolation door to prevent the risk of accidental falls after the isolation door is opened.

[0141] For example, when the first isolation door and / or the second isolation door are in the open state, if an obstruction is detected under the first isolation door and / or the second isolation door, the first isolation door and / or the second isolation door shall be prohibited from closing.

[0142] For example, after the first isolation door and / or the second isolation door are opened, the foolproof device corresponding to the first isolation door and / or the second isolation door is controlled to open, so that the foolproof device locks the first isolation door and / or the second isolation door in the open state.

[0143] For example, a safety beam sensor is installed under each isolation door. When an obstruction is detected, the program conditionally locks the door, preventing it from closing.

[0144] Each isolation door is equipped with a safety anti-fool cylinder. When the isolation door is opened, the safety anti-fool cylinder extends and mechanically locks the lifting door to prevent the risk of accidental fall. Upon receiving the command to close the isolation door, the safety anti-fool cylinder retracts.

[0145] In summary, the technical solution presented in this application significantly improves negative pressure extraction efficiency and reduces process time through step-by-step vacuuming. Simultaneously, the tray clamping system reduces the risk of cell damage, ensuring product consistency. The real-time monitoring system uses sensors and data transmission arrays to provide dynamic feedback on equipment operating status, enhancing equipment safety and process controllability. Furthermore, the constant negative pressure environment in the process chamber avoids repeated vacuuming, further optimizing production cycle time. Overall, this solution improves production efficiency while ensuring product quality and equipment operational safety, meeting the high consistency, high safety, and high efficiency requirements of lithium battery manufacturing.

[0146] This application also provides an electronic device.

[0147] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electronic device 110 provided in the embodiments of this application. The electronic device 110 can be a sleep / wake-up unit as shown in any of the above embodiments, such as... Figure 11 As shown, the electronic device may include: transceiver 1101, processor 1102, and memory 1103.

[0148] Processor 1102 executes computer execution instructions stored in memory, causing processor 1102 to perform the scheme in the above embodiments. Processor 1102 may be a general-purpose processor, including a central processing unit (CPU), a network processor (NP), etc.; it may also be a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, or discrete hardware components.

[0149] The memory 1103 is connected to the processor 1102 via the system bus and completes communication between them. The memory 1103 is used to store computer program instructions.

[0150] Transceiver 1101 can receive and send data and instructions.

[0151] Optionally, the electronic device 110 may also include a communication interface 1104, which allows communication and interaction with external or internal devices via the communication interface 1103. External devices may be, for example, client devices (e.g., mobile phones, tablets). In specific implementations, if the communication interface 1104, memory 1103, and processor 1102 are implemented independently, they can be interconnected via a bus to complete communication with each other.

[0152] The system bus can be a Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) bus or an Extended Industry Standard Architecture (EISA) bus, etc. The system bus can be divided into address bus, data bus, control bus, etc. For ease of representation, only one thick line is used in the diagram, but this does not indicate that there is only one bus or one type of bus. Transceivers are used to enable communication between database access devices and other computers (e.g., clients, read-write libraries, and read-only libraries). Memory may include random access memory (RAM) and may also include non-volatile memory.

[0153] Optionally, in a specific implementation, if the communication interface 1104, memory 1103 and processor 1102 are integrated on a single chip, then the communication interface 1104, memory 1103 and processor 1102 can communicate through an internal interface.

[0154] This application also provides a chip for executing instructions, which is used to execute the technical solutions in the above embodiments.

[0155] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program thereon. When the computer program is executed by a processor, it implements the technical solutions of the above embodiments. The implementation principle and technical effects are similar, and will not be repeated here.

[0156] In one possible implementation, a computer-readable medium may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), compact discread-only memory (CD-ROM) or other optical disc storage, disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium targeted to carry or to store the required program code in the form of instructions or data structures, and accessible by a computer. Furthermore, any connection is appropriately referred to as a computer-readable medium. For example, if software is transmitted from a website, server, or other remote source using coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, Digital Subscriber Line (DSL), or wireless technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave, then coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, DSL, or wireless technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave are included in the definition of medium. As used herein, disks and optical discs include optical discs, laser discs, optical discs, Digital Versatile Discs (DVDs), floppy disks, and Blu-ray discs, where disks typically reproduce data magnetically, while optical discs optically reproduce data using lasers. Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media.

[0157] This application also provides a computer program product, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the technical solutions of the above embodiments. Its implementation principle and technical effects are similar, and will not be repeated here.

[0158] In the specific implementation of the aforementioned terminal device or server, it should be understood that the processor can be a Central Processing Unit (CPU), or other general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), etc. A general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor. The steps of the method disclosed in the embodiments of this application can be directly manifested as execution by a hardware processor, or execution by a combination of hardware and software modules within the processor.

[0159] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the steps in any of the above method embodiments can be implemented by hardware associated with program instructions. The aforementioned program can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium, and when the program is executed, all or part of the steps in the above method embodiments are performed.

[0160] If the technical solution of this application is implemented in software form and sold or used as a product, it can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, all or part of the technical solution of this application can be embodied in the form of a software product, which is stored in a storage medium and includes a computer program or several instructions. This computer software product enables a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, network device, or similar electronic device) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods in the embodiments of this application.

[0161] It should be noted that, for the sake of simplicity, the foregoing method embodiments are all described as a series of actions. However, those skilled in the art should understand that this application is not limited to the described order of actions, as some steps may be performed in other orders or simultaneously according to this application. Furthermore, those skilled in the art should also understand that the embodiments described in the specification are all optional embodiments, and the actions and modules involved are not necessarily essential to this application.

[0162] It should be further noted that although the steps in the flowchart are shown sequentially according to the arrows, these steps are not necessarily executed in the order indicated by the arrows. Unless explicitly stated herein, there is no strict order restriction on the execution of these steps, and they can be executed in other orders. Moreover, at least some steps in the flowchart may include multiple sub-steps or multiple stages. These sub-steps or stages are not necessarily completed at the same time, but can be executed at different times. The execution order of these sub-steps or stages is not necessarily sequential, but can be performed alternately or in turn with other steps or at least some of the sub-steps or stages of other steps.

[0163] It should be understood that the above-described device embodiments are merely illustrative, and the device of this application can also be implemented in other ways. For example, the division of units / modules in the above embodiments is only a logical functional division, and there may be other division methods in actual implementation. For example, multiple units, modules, or components may be combined, or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed.

[0164] Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the functional units / modules in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one unit / module, or each unit / module can exist physically separately, or two or more units / modules can be integrated together. The integrated units / modules described above can be implemented in hardware or as software program modules.

[0165] When integrated units / modules are implemented in hardware, the hardware can be digital circuits, analog circuits, etc. The physical implementation of the hardware structure includes, but is not limited to, transistors, memristors, etc. Unless otherwise specified, the processor can be any suitable hardware processor, such as a CPU, GPU, FPGA, DSP, and ASIC, etc. Unless otherwise specified, the storage unit can be any suitable magnetic or magneto-optical storage medium, such as Resistive Random Access Memory (RRAM), Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM), Static Random Access Memory (SRAM), Enhanced Dynamic Random Access Memory (EDRAM), High-Bandwidth Memory (HBM), Hybrid Memory Cube (HMC), etc.

[0166] If the integrated unit / module is implemented as a software program module and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a computer-readable storage device (CMD). Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or all or part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a memory and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods of the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned memory includes various media capable of storing program code, such as a USB flash drive, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), portable hard drive, magnetic disk, or optical disk.

[0167] In the above embodiments, the descriptions of each embodiment have their own emphasis. For parts not described in detail in a certain embodiment, please refer to the relevant descriptions of other embodiments. The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined arbitrarily. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as the combination of these technical features does not contradict each other, it should be considered within the scope of this specification.

[0168] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A method for creating negative pressure, characterized in that, include: When the battery enters the feeding buffer tank, the first gas storage unit is connected to the feeding buffer tank, and the valve connecting the first vacuum pump to the feeding buffer tank is opened to evacuate the feeding buffer tank; the first gas storage unit includes at least one gas storage tank, and each gas storage tank stores a preset negative pressure; When the pressure in the feeding buffer tank reaches the target pressure, the first isolation door between the feeding buffer tank and the process compartment is opened, and the battery is sent from the feeding buffer tank into the process compartment; The pressure in the process chamber is the target pressure; The first isolation door is closed to allow the battery to undergo negative pressure treatment in the process chamber.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: The second isolation door between the process chamber and the material buffer tank is opened; the pressure in the material buffer tank is the target pressure. The battery is transferred from the process compartment into the unloading buffer tank, and the second isolation door is closed. The vacuum in the feeding buffer tank is broken, and the battery is sent out of the feeding buffer tank when the pressure in the feeding buffer tank is the same as the external pressure.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, Before the second isolation door between the process compartment and the unloading buffer tank in the control room is opened, the method further includes: The system controls the second gas storage unit to connect with the feeding buffer tank, and controls the second vacuum pump to open the valve connecting the feeding buffer tank to evacuate the feeding buffer tank; the second gas storage unit includes at least one gas storage tank; each gas storage tank stores a preset negative pressure; When the pressure in the feed buffer tank reaches the target pressure, the second gas storage unit is disconnected from the feed buffer tank, and the connecting valve of the second vacuum pump to the feed buffer tank is closed.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The method further includes: When the pressure in the gas storage tank of the first gas storage unit is not the preset negative pressure, control the first vacuum pump and / or the external system to evacuate the gas storage tank of the first gas storage unit; so that the pressure in the gas storage tank of the first gas storage unit reaches the preset negative pressure; And / or, When the pressure in the gas storage tank of the second gas storage unit is not the preset negative pressure, the second vacuum pump and / or external system are controlled to evacuate the gas storage tank of the second gas storage unit so that the pressure in the gas storage tank of the second gas storage unit reaches the preset negative pressure.

5. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The method further includes: Monitor the pressure in the process chamber; When the pressure in the process chamber is not the target pressure, the first vacuum pump and / or the second vacuum pump are controlled to evacuate the process chamber so that the pressure in the process chamber reaches the target pressure.

6. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The method further includes: When the first isolation door and / or the second isolation door are in the open state, if an obstruction is detected under the first isolation door and / or the second isolation door, the first isolation door and / or the second isolation door shall be prohibited from closing. And / or, After the first isolation door and / or the second isolation door are opened, the foolproof device corresponding to the first isolation door and / or the second isolation door is controlled to open, so that the foolproof device locks the first isolation door and / or the second isolation door in the open state.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The method further includes: The battery is secured by a clamp, allowing it to move between the loading buffer tank, the process compartment, and the unloading buffer tank while the clamp is in a fixed state.

8. An electronic device, characterized in that, include: The processor, transceiver, and memory are provided; the processor is communicatively connected to both the transceiver and the memory. The memory stores computer-executed instructions; The transceiver communicates and interacts with external devices. The processor executes computer execution instructions stored in the memory to implement the method as described in any one of claims 1-7.

9. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores computer-executable instructions, which, when executed by a processor, are used to implement the method as described in any one of claims 1-7.

10. A computer program product, characterized in that, Includes a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the method described in any one of claims 1-7.

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