Apparatus and method for cutting secondary battery can

Abstract

Disclosed are an apparatus and a method for cutting a secondary battery can. The apparatus for cutting a secondary battery can includes a support configured to fixedly support a molded battery can product having a removal target portion; a cutter having a notch blade inserted into the molded battery can product, the notch blade being configured to cut a portion of the removal target portion, and a cutting blade configured to continuously cut from the portion of the removal target portion cut by the notch blade; and a cutter driver configured to move the cutter and move the notch blade along a linear path perpendicular to an inner wall of the molded battery can product, to generate a cutting start notch portion on the inner wall, the cutter driver being used to cut the cutting blade from the cutting start notch portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an apparatus and method for cutting secondary battery canisters. Background Technology

[0002] Unlike primary batteries, which cannot be recharged, secondary batteries are batteries that can be charged and discharged. A secondary battery consists of an electrode assembly comprising a positive electrode plate, a negative electrode plate, and a separator. The electrode assembly, along with the electrolyte, is contained and sealed within a battery can.

[0003] The battery manufacturing process typically includes an impact process that applies impact to a block or blank material to form a general cup shape, a leveling process that inserts a punch into the formed cup shape and pushes the punch into a mold to make the sidewalls uniform and thin, thereby smoothly improving the surface, and a cutting process that trims part of the opening of the molded product formed by the leveling process to obtain a battery can with the desired height specifications.

[0004] A cutter is used in the cutting process. The cutter moves back-and-forth and left-and-right as it is inserted into the part of the molded product to be removed, cutting the target portion to be removed.

[0005] The information disclosed in this background section is intended to enhance understanding of the background of this disclosure, and therefore may contain information that does not constitute related technology. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The embodiment includes an apparatus for cutting a secondary battery can, the apparatus comprising: a support configured to securely support a molded battery can product having a target portion to be removed; a cutter having a slit blade and a cutting blade, the slit blade being inserted into the molded battery can product, the slit blade being configured to cut a portion of the target portion to be removed, the cutting blade being configured to continuously cut from the portion of the target portion to be removed cut by the slit blade; and a cutter driver configured to move the cutter and cause the slit blade to move along a linear path perpendicular to the inner wall of the molded battery can product, thereby creating a cutting start slit portion on the inner wall, the cutter driver being used to cause the cutting blade to cut from the cutting start slit portion.

[0007] The molded battery can product may have a first short edge and a second short edge facing each other, and a first long edge and a second long edge facing each other. The cutting blade of the cutter may include a first short edge cutting blade portion corresponding to the first short edge, a first long edge cutting blade portion corresponding to the first long edge, a second short edge cutting blade portion corresponding to the second short edge, and a second long edge cutting blade portion corresponding to the second long edge, and the cutting blade is formed on the first short edge cutting blade portion.

[0008] The first short edge and the first short edge cutting blade portion, the first long edge and the first long edge cutting blade portion, the second short edge and the second short edge cutting blade portion, and the second long edge and the second long edge cutting blade portion are not parallel.

[0009] The cutting blade can protrude from the first short edge cutting blade portion toward the first short edge, and as the cutter moves toward the first short edge, the cutting blade reaches the first short edge earlier than the first short edge cutting blade portion and forms a cut.

[0010] The cutting blade can be positioned at a point where it divides into 1 / 2 to 3 / 4 of the length of the first short edge cutting blade portion from one end of the first short edge cutting blade portion.

[0011] The slicing blade and the cutting blade can be formed at the corner between the upper surface and the side surface of the cutter, and the angle between the side surface and the upper surface can be an acute angle.

[0012] The angle between the upper surface and the side surface can be in the range of 77 degrees to 87 degrees.

[0013] The second short edge cutting blade portion may have an angle between 15 and 25 degrees relative to the second short edge.

[0014] The first long edge cutting blade portion may have an angle between 1 degree and 4 degrees relative to the first long edge.

[0015] The angle between the second long edge cutting blade portion and the second long edge is between 1 degree and 4 degrees.

[0016] The support may include: a support plate fixed to the cutter, the support plate having a quadrilateral channel through which the target portion of the molded battery can product is removed, such that the target portion is surrounding the cutter; and a height retaining portion configured to support the molded battery can product to prevent it from falling.

[0017] The height holding section may have a variable clamp, which is supported by the upper surface of the cutter when it is housed inside the molded battery can product and supports the bottom portion of the molded battery can product upwards.

[0018] The variable clamp may include: a pair of clamp blocks spaced apart from each other and in contact with the bottom portion and inner surface of the molded battery can product; and a spacing adjustment portion configured to adjust the spacing between the pair of clamp blocks.

[0019] Threaded holes in a straight line can be formed in the opposing surfaces of the pair of clamping blocks, the threaded holes facing each other, and the thread of the threaded hole on one side is a right-hand thread, and the thread of the threaded hole on the opposite side is a left-hand thread, and the spacing adjustment part can include: a bidirectional screw, the two ends of which are threaded to the threaded holes of the pair of clamping blocks at both sides; and a rotatable member fixed to the bidirectional screw, the rotatable member being configured to rotate by receiving an external force to cause the bidirectional screw to rotate axially.

[0020] The support may further include a can pressing portion configured to downwardly support the molded battery can product supported by the variable clamp.

[0021] The can pressing part may include: a pair of support walls fixed to the upper part of the support plate, the pair of support walls being fixed on opposite sides with the quadrilateral channel between them; a pressing block installed between the pair of support walls, the pressing block pressing the molded battery can product; and a block fixing part for maintaining the height of the pressing block.

[0022] Horizontal internal teeth can be used on the inner surfaces of the pair of support walls, and side teeth that can mesh with the horizontal internal teeth can be formed on the two side surfaces of the pressing block.

[0023] The connecting threaded holes can be formed in the two side surfaces of the pressing block, and the elongated vertical hole corresponding to each connecting threaded hole can be formed in each support wall, and the block fixing part can have a fixing screw that passes through the elongated vertical hole and connects to the connecting threaded hole.

[0024] The embodiment includes a method for cutting a secondary battery can, the method comprising: fixing a molded battery can product having a first short edge and a second short edge facing each other, and a first long edge and a second long edge facing each other, and having a removal target portion removable by a finishing process; positioning a cutter inside the molded battery can product, the cutter having a first short edge cutting blade portion corresponding to the first short edge, a first long edge cutting blade portion corresponding to the first long edge, a second short edge cutting blade portion corresponding to the second short edge, a second long edge cutting blade portion corresponding to the second long edge, and a slit blade formed on the first short edge cutting blade portion, the slit blade protruding outward from the first short edge cutting blade portion; linearly moving the cutter such that the slit blade cuts through the first short edge to form a slit portion; and moving the cutter along a curved path to cut from the slit portion and cut the removal target portion.

[0025] The linear movement of the cutter may include moving the cutting blade along a linear path orthogonal to the first short edge, such that the cutting blade passes through the first short edge. Attached Figure Description

[0026] Features will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the detailed description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0027] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a prismatic battery having a battery can cut by a cutting device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The cross-sectional view of the prismatic battery shown;

[0029] Figure 3 This is a view illustrating a molded product that has undergone preliminary processing to manufacture a battery can;

[0030] Figure 4 This is an example Figure 3 A view of the cutting and trimming lines;

[0031] Figures 5 to 7 It is a view used to describe the cutting problem;

[0032] Figure 8 This is a perspective view illustrating a cutter holder and a cutter applied to an apparatus for cutting secondary battery cans according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 9 It is used to describe Figure 8 A plan view showing the geometric characteristics of the cutter;

[0034] Figure 10 yes Figure 8 The side view of the cutter shown;

[0035] Figures 11 to 24 These are sequential views illustrating the removal of a target portion using a cutter according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] Figure 25 This is a configuration diagram illustrating the overall configuration of a cutting apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0037] Figure 26 and Figure 27 This is a view illustrating the removal of the target portion using a cutter.

[0038] Figure 28 It is a separate example Figure 25 A view of the variable clamp;

[0039] Figure 29 yes Figure 28 A planar cross-sectional view of the variable clamp;

[0040] Figure 30 yes Figure 25 An exploded perspective view of the can's pressing part is shown; and

[0041] Figure 31 This is a flowchart describing a method for cutting a secondary battery can according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0042] Example embodiments will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings; however, they may be implemented in different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey exemplary implementation methods to those skilled in the art.

[0043] In the accompanying drawings, for clarity of illustration, the dimensions of layers and regions may be enlarged. It will also be understood that when a layer or element is referred to as being "on" another layer or substrate, it may be directly on that layer or substrate, or there may be intermediate layers present. Furthermore, it will be understood that when a layer is referred to as being "below" another layer, it may be directly below, and one or more intermediate layers may be present. Additionally, it will be understood that when a layer is referred to as being "between" two layers, it may be the only layer between the two layers, or one or more intermediate layers may be present. The same reference numerals always indicate the same elements.

[0044] It will be understood that if a component or layer is described as being "on" another component or layer, "connected to," or "attached to" another component or layer, then it can be directly on, connected to, or attached to the other component or layer, or one or more intermediate components or layers may exist. When a component or layer is described as being "directly on" another component or layer, "directly connected to," or "directly attached to" another component or layer, no intermediate components or layers exist. For example, if a first component is described as being "attached" or "connected" to a second component, then the first component can be directly attached to or connected to the second component, or the first component can be indirectly attached to or connected to the second component via one or more intermediate components.

[0045] As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Furthermore, the use of “may” when describing embodiments of this disclosure refers to “one or more embodiments of this disclosure.” Expressions such as “at least one of…” and “any one of…” preceding / following the list of elements modify the entire list of elements, not individual elements in the list. When phrases such as “at least one of A, B, and C,” “at least one of A, B, or C,” “at least one selected from the group of A, B, and C,” or “at least one selected from A, B, and C” are used to specify a list of elements A, B, and C, the phrase may refer to any and all suitable combinations or subsets of A, B, and C, such as A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A and B and C. As used herein, the term “use” may be considered synonymous with the term “utilize.” As used herein, the terms “generally,” “about,” and similar terms are used as approximate terms rather than terms of degree and are intended to account for inherent variations in measurements or calculations that are perceptible to those skilled in the art.

[0046] It will be understood that while the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or segments, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or segments should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or segment from another element, component, region, layer, or segment. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments, the first element, component, region, layer, or segment discussed below may be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer, or segment.

[0047] For ease of description, this document uses spatial relative terms such as “below,” “under,” “down,” “above,” and “up” to describe the relationship between one element or feature and another element or feature as shown in the figures. It will be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation, in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is flipped, an element described as “below” or “under” other elements or features can be oriented as “above” or “upon” other elements or features. Therefore, the term “below” can encompass both above and below orientations. The device can be positioned in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0048] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments of this disclosure and is not intended to limit this disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that, as used in this specification, the terms “comprising” and / or “including” specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0049] Furthermore, any numerical ranges disclosed and / or enumerated herein are intended to include all subranges with the same numerical precision contained within the enumerated ranges. For example, the range “1.0 to 10.0” is intended to include all subranges between the enumerated minimum value of 1.0 and the enumerated maximum value of 10.0 (and including both the enumerated minimum value of 1.0 and the enumerated maximum value of 10.0), i.e., a minimum value equal to or greater than 1.0 and a maximum value equal to or less than 10.0, such as 2.4 to 7.6. Any maximum numerical limit enumerated herein is intended to include all lower numerical limits contained therein, and any minimum numerical limit enumerated in this specification is intended to include all higher numerical limits contained therein. Therefore, the applicant reserves the right to amend this specification, including the claims, to expressly enumerate any subranges contained within the scope expressly enumerated herein. All such ranges are intended to be inherently described in this specification such that any modifications made to expressly enumerate any such subranges will comply with the requirements of local patent law.

[0050] Referring to two compared elements, features, etc., as “identical” may mean that they are “substantially identical.” Therefore, the phrase “substantially identical” can include cases with deviations considered low in the art, such as 5% or less. Furthermore, if a parameter is described as consistent within a given region, this may mean that it is consistent in terms of its mean.

[0051] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0052] Placing any element "above (or below)" or "above (or below)" another element may mean that the arbitrary element can contact the upper (or lower) surface of the element, and other elements may also be located between the element and any element located above (or below) the element.

[0053] Furthermore, it will be understood that when a component is referred to as “connected,” “linked,” or “attached” to another component, the components can be directly “connected,” “linked,” or “attached” to each other, or another component can be “between” the components.

[0054] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise stated, if "A and / or B" is stated, it refers to A, B, or A and B. In other words, "and / or" includes any or all combinations of the listed items. Unless otherwise indicated, when "C~D" is stated, it refers to C or more and D or fewer.

[0055] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments of this disclosure and is not intended to limit this disclosure.

[0056] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a prismatic battery having a battery can cut by a cutting device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The cross-sectional view of the prismatic battery shown.

[0057] The battery canister 11 can form the overall exterior of the prismatic battery 10 and can be formed of a conductive metal such as aluminum, aluminum alloy, or nickel-plated steel. Furthermore, the battery canister 11 can provide space to accommodate the electrode assembly 15r.

[0058] The cover assembly 15 may include a cover plate 15c that covers the opening of the battery can 11. In some embodiments, the battery can 11 and the cover plate 15c may be formed of a conductive material. The cover plate 15c may have a positive electrode terminal 15d, a negative electrode terminal 15e, a gas vent 15g, and an injection port 15f.

[0059] Here, the positive electrode terminal 15d and the negative electrode terminal 15e can be electrically connected to the positive electrode contact and the negative electrode contact inside the battery can 11, respectively, and are installed to be exposed outside the cover plate 15c. The inlet 15f is the channel through which the electrolyte is injected into the battery can 11. In addition, the gas vent 15g is opened due to the gas generated inside the battery to degas the gas.

[0060] The electrode assembly 15r inside the battery can 11 can be formed by winding or stacking a first electrode plate, a separator, and a second electrode plate into a plate or film shape. If the electrode assembly 15r is a wound stack, the winding axis can be parallel to the longitudinal direction of the battery can 11. In some other embodiments, the electrode assembly 15r is a stack type instead of a wound type. The shape of the electrode assembly 15r can vary.

[0061] Furthermore, the electrode assembly 15r can be a Z-stacked electrode assembly in which a positive electrode plate and a negative electrode plate are inserted into both sides of the separator and then bent into a Z-stacked structure. Additionally, one or more electrode assemblies 15r can be stacked such that the long sides of the electrode assemblies 15r are adjacent to each other and housed within the housing 15a, and the number of electrode assemblies 15r in the battery canister 11 can vary. The first electrode plate of the electrode assembly 15r can be used as a negative electrode, and the second electrode plate can be used as a positive electrode. Of course, the reverse is also possible.

[0062] The first electrode plate can be formed by coating a first electrode active material such as graphite or carbon onto a first electrode current collector formed of a metal foil such as copper, copper alloy, nickel, or nickel alloy. The first electrode plate may include a first electrode tab 15p (e.g., a first uncoated portion) as a region where the first electrode active material is not coated. The first electrode tab 15p can serve as a current flow path between the first electrode plate and the first current collector 15m. In some embodiments, when manufacturing the first electrode plate, the first electrode tab 15p is formed by pre-cutting it to protrude toward one side of the electrode assembly, or the first electrode tab 15p protrudes toward one side of the electrode assembly 15r more than (e.g., farther or beyond) the diaphragm without being separately cut.

[0063] The second electrode plate can be formed by coating a second electrode active material, such as a transition metal oxide, onto a second electrode current collector formed of a metal foil such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The second electrode plate may include a second electrode tab 15q (e.g., a second uncoated portion) as a region where the second electrode active material is not coated. The second electrode tab 15q can serve as a current flow path between the second electrode plate and the second current collector 15n. In some embodiments, when manufacturing the second electrode plate, the second electrode tab 15q can be formed by being pre-cut to protrude toward the other side (e.g., the opposite side) of the electrode assembly 15r, or the second electrode tab 15q can protrude toward the other side of the electrode assembly 15r more than (e.g., farther or beyond) the diaphragm without being separately cut.

[0064] The separator prevents or substantially reduces short circuits between the first and second electrodes while allowing lithium ions to move between them. The separator can be made of, for example, a polyethylene membrane, a polypropylene membrane, or a polyethylene-polypropylene membrane. In some embodiments, the electrode assembly 15r is housed together with the electrolyte in the battery canister 11.

[0065] In the electrode assembly 15r, the first current collector 15m and the second current collector 15n can be welded and connected to the first electrode terminal 15p extending from the first electrode plate and the second electrode terminal 15q extending from the second electrode plate, respectively.

[0066] The first current collector 15m and the second current collector 15n are respectively connected to the positive electrode terminal 15d and the negative electrode terminal 15e via connecting members 15k. In some embodiments, the connecting members 15k may each have a threaded outer peripheral surface and can be fastened to the positive electrode terminal 15d and the negative electrode terminal 15e by threaded connection. However, the connecting members 15k can also be connected to the positive electrode terminal 15d and the negative electrode terminal 15e by riveting or welding.

[0067] Figure 3 This is a view illustrating a molded battery can product that has already been processed to manufacture a battery can, and Figure 4 This is an example Figure 3 A view of the trimming lines. When the metal sheet processing is complete, Figure 3 The molded battery can product shown is 90% complete.

[0068] Molded battery cans are 90% the result of ironing. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the upper portion of the molded battery can product 90 has an irregular shape. The battery can 11 can be cut using the cutting device 50 according to this embodiment (see...). Figure 25 It is obtained by cutting the upper part of a molded battery can product 90 with such an irregular upper part.

[0069] exist Figure 3 In this context, trimming line 91 is the cutting line formed by the cutting device 50. The upper part of trimming line 91 is where the target portion 93 is removed. When the target portion 93 is removed, Figure 1 A battery canister 11 is formed. The opening 11a of the battery canister 11 has a rectangular shape. In addition, the bottom portion 11c of the battery canister 11 is flat.

[0070] Furthermore, the battery can 11 has four sides including a first short edge 11f, a first long edge 11g, a second short edge 11h, and a second long edge 11k. The first short edge 11f and the second short edge 11h are parallel to each other or face each other, and the first long edge 11g and the second long edge 11k are also parallel to each other or face each other. By using the cutting device 50 of this embodiment to cut the trimming line 91, a smooth opening 11a without any scratches or damage can be formed. Since the opening 11a is not damaged, the connection between the cover assembly 15 and the battery can 11 is well maintained.

[0071] Figure 5 to Figure 7 It is a view used to describe comparative cutting problems.

[0072] As illustrated, the cutter 101 is housed inside the molded battery can product 90. Figure 5 In the specified state, the cutter 101 moves in the direction of arrow a1 to cut the first short edge 11f, and moves in the direction of arrow a2 to cut the first long edge 11g. Furthermore, the cutter 101 moves in the direction of arrow a3 to cut the second short edge 11h, and moves in the direction of arrow a4 to cut the second long edge 11k.

[0073] However, the cutter 101 has a cutting start portion 101c that protrudes to the right from the upper side of one end of the cutter 101. The right extension of the cutting start portion 101c contacts the corner 95 of the molded battery can product 90. The corner 95 has a curved shape between the second long edge 11k and the first short edge 11f.

[0074] Therefore, when the cutter 101 moves in the direction of arrow a1, the cutting start portion 101c contacts the inner surface of the corner 95 and slides slightly in the direction of arrow k, thereby tearing the inner surface of the corner 95. This "tearing phenomenon" may affect the battery can portion beyond the trim line 91. This results in a defective battery can 11.

[0075] Figure 8 This is a perspective view illustrating a cutter holder and a cutter applied to a cutting apparatus for a secondary battery can according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 9 It is used to describe Figure 8 A plan view showing the geometric characteristics of the cutter. Furthermore, Figure 10 yes Figure 8 The cutter shown is a side view.

[0076] As illustrated, the cutter 20 has a predetermined thickness and has a cutting blade and a slit blade 21 at its upper edge. The cutting blade and slit blade 21 are blades formed at the corner between the upper surface 26a and the side surface 26b of the cutter 20, and are capable of cutting trimming lines 91. There is an acute angle between the side surface 26b and the upper surface 26a. Preferably, the acute angle between the upper surface 26a and the side surface 26b can be in the range of 77 degrees to 87 degrees. The side surface 26b can be referred to as the thickness surface of the cutter 20.

[0077] The cutting blade may include a first short edge cutting blade portion 23a corresponding to (e.g., aligned with) a first short edge 11f of the molded battery can product 90, a first long edge cutting blade portion 23c corresponding to (e.g., aligned with) a first long edge 11g, a second short edge cutting blade portion 23e corresponding to (e.g., aligned with) a second short edge 11h, and a second long edge cutting blade portion 23g corresponding to (e.g., aligned with) a second long edge 11k.

[0078] The first short edge 11f and the first short edge cutting blade portion 23a, the first long edge 11g and the first long edge cutting blade portion 23c, the second short edge 11h and the second short edge cutting blade portion 23e, and the second long edge 11k and the second long edge cutting blade portion 23g are in a non-parallel state. That is, they are not parallel to each other.

[0079] Furthermore, the cutting blade may further include a first circular blade portion 25a, a second circular blade portion 25c, a third circular blade portion 25e, and a fourth circular blade portion 25g. The first circular blade portion 25a is formed between the first short-edge cutting blade portion 23a and the first long-edge cutting blade portion 23c, the second circular blade portion 25c is formed between the first long-edge cutting blade portion 23c and the second short-edge cutting blade portion 23e, the third circular blade portion 25e is formed between the second short-edge cutting blade portion 23e and the second long-edge cutting blade portion 23g, and the fourth circular blade portion 25g is formed between the second long-edge cutting blade portion 23g and the first short-edge cutting blade portion 23a.

[0080] The radius of curvature of the first circular blade portion 25a can be approximately 3.5 ± 1.5 mm, the radius of curvature of the second circular blade portion 25c can be approximately 3 ± 1.5 mm, the radius of curvature of the third circular blade portion 25e can be approximately 5 ± 1.5 mm, and the radius of curvature of the fourth circular blade portion 25g can be approximately 3.5 ± 1.5 mm. The radius of curvature of the circular blade portions can vary depending on the size or shape of the molded battery can product 90.

[0081] The first long-edge cutting blade portion 23c and the second long-edge cutting blade portion 23g are parallel to each other. The angle s1 between the first long-edge cutting blade portion 23c and the first long edge 11g (see...) Figure 9 The angle can be in the range of about 1 degree to about 4 degrees. Similarly, the second long edge cutting blade portion 23g can have an angle of about 1 degree to about 4 degrees relative to the second long edge 11k.

[0082] Furthermore, the angle s2 between the second short edge cutting blade portion 23e and the second short edge 11h can be in the range of 15 degrees to 25 degrees. Additionally, the angle s3 between the upper portion of the cutting blade 21 on the first short edge cutting blade portion 23a and the first short edge 11f can be in the range of approximately 3 degrees to approximately 8 degrees.

[0083] The cutter 20 can be inserted into the molded battery can product 90, which is fixed to the support member described below, and can be cut by arrow m (see arrow m). Figure 9 The trimming line 91 is cut sequentially by linear motion in the direction of arrow n and translational motion in the direction of arrow n. The translational motion is not a rotational motion around the origin 105, which is the center of rotation, but a motion of the cutter 20 itself rotating along a circular trajectory. After rotating once along the circular trajectory, the cutter 20 moves linearly in the opposite direction to arrow m and returns to the initial position.

[0084] Simultaneously, a slit blade 21 is formed on the first short edge cutting blade portion 23a. The slit blade 21 protrudes from the first short edge cutting blade portion 23a toward the first short edge 11f, and as the cutter 20 moves toward the first short edge 11f, the slit blade 21 reaches the first short edge 11f earlier than the first short edge cutting blade portion 23a and forms a cut. The portion cut by the slit blade 21 is the starting point for the trimming line 91. Cutting is performed continuously from the portion cut by the slit blade 21. In particular, because the slit blade 21 pre-cuts the first short edge 11f, the molded battery can product 90 does not deform during the cutting of the first short edge cutting blade portion 23a.

[0085] The cutting blade 21 can be located at approximately 1 / 2 to 3 / 4 of the length of the first short edge cutting blade portion 23a, from one end or at the end portion of the first short edge cutting blade portion 23a. That is, the cutting blade 21 is located approximately 1 / 2 to 3 / 4 of the length of the first short edge cutting blade portion 23a, from the point where the first short edge cutting blade portion 23a meets the fourth circular blade portion 25g in the direction of the first circular blade portion 25a. The cutting blade 21 can have a pointed shape pointing towards the first short edge 11f. Figure 8 Reference numeral 31 in the attached figure indicates the cutter holder. (See figure 31 for reference.) Figure 25As shown, the cutter bracket 31 transmits the power of the cutter drive unit 51 to the cutter 20 while being supported by the cutter drive unit 51.

[0086] Figures 11 to 24 These are sequential views illustrating the removal of a target portion using a cutter according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0087] Figure 11 This illustrates the state of the cutter 20 before it moves. In order to perform trimming in this state, the cutter 20 moves linearly in the direction of arrow m. Figure 12 and Figure 13 The cutter 20 moves toward the first short edge 11f. The path of movement of the cutter 20 is perpendicular to the first short edge 11f. Therefore, the cutting blade 21 does not slip relative to the first short edge 11f.

[0088] As the cutter 20 moves in the direction of arrow m (to the right in the figure), the cutting blade 21 cuts through the first short edge 11f. Furthermore, the first short edge cutting blade portion 23a cuts through the portion cut by the cutting blade 21 onto the first short edge 11f. Additionally, the first circular blade portion 25a of the cutter 20 cuts the corner between the first short edge 11f and the first long edge 11g.

[0089] Figure 14 This example illustrates cutter 20, which has moved completely to the right. Cutter 20 has moved from the direction of arrow n... Figure 14 The state of rotation. As mentioned above, when the cutter 20 rotates in the direction of arrow n, this does not mean rotation about the origin 105 as the axis of rotation, like a propeller, but rather means performing a translational motion. The cutter 20 maintains... Figure 14 The cutter 20 can move horizontally and vertically simultaneously. For example, it can move downwards while simultaneously moving to the left, or upwards while simultaneously moving to the right.

[0090] Subsequently, as Figures 15 to 17 As shown, the cutter 20 moves downwards while simultaneously moving to the left. That is, the cutter 20 cuts the first long edge 11g and moves toward the second short edge 11h. As the cutter 20 moves toward the second short edge 11h, the second circular blade portion 25c can cut the lower left corner of the molded battery can product 90.

[0091] In addition, such as Figure 18 and Figure 19 As shown, the cutter 20 begins to move upwards while moving completely to the left. Therefore, the second short edge 11h is completely cut by the second short edge cutting blade portion 23e. In this case, as... Figure 19As shown, the upper left corner of the molded battery can product 90 can be cut by the third circular blade portion 25e.

[0092] Figures 20 to 22 The example shows the cutter 20 moving upwards while simultaneously moving to the right. As illustrated, the second long edge cutting blade portion 23g of the cutter 20 moves to the right while cutting the second long edge 11k. The fourth circular blade portion 25g of the cutter 20 moves to the right while cutting the upper right corner of the molded battery can product 90. Figure 23 An example is shown of a corner cut by the fourth circular blade portion 25g. Furthermore, the cutter 20 moves downwards while moving to the right to cut the uncut portion of the first short edge 11f. The cutter 20 from... Figure 24 The state returns to the initial position, that is, Figure 11 The location.

[0093] This movement of the cutter 20 can be achieved via the cutter drive unit or the cutter driver 51 (see...). Figure 25 This is achieved by [the following]. The cutter drive unit 51 may include gears, eccentric shafts, etc. The cutter drive unit 51 moves the cutter 20 and causes the cutting blade 21 of the cutter 20 to move along a linear path perpendicular to the inner wall of the molded battery can product 90 to form a cutting start slit portion on the inner wall, and then causes the cutting blade to perform cutting from the cutting start slit portion.

[0094] Figure 25 This is a configuration diagram illustrating the overall configuration of a cutting apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 26 and Figure 27 This is a view illustrating the removal of the target portion using a cutter. Furthermore, Figure 28 It is a separate example Figure 25 A view of the variable clamp, and Figure 29 yes Figure 28 A planar cross-sectional view of the variable clamp. Furthermore, Figure 30 yes Figure 25 An exploded perspective view of the can's pressing section shown.

[0095] As illustrated, the cutting device 50 according to this embodiment may include a support, a cutter 20, a cutter bracket 31, and a cutter drive unit 51.

[0096] A support member is used to support (e.g., fix) the molded battery can product 90 in an upright position. That is, the support member secures the molded battery can product 90 so that its opening faces downwards. The removal target portion 93 to be removed from the molded battery can product 90 can be exposed downwards from the support plate 53. The support member may include the support plate 53, a height holding portion, and a can pressing portion 60. Furthermore, the height holding portion may include a variable clamp 70.

[0097] The support plate 53 is a plate-like member fixed at a position higher than the cutter 20 (e.g., above or on the cutter 20) and horizontally supported by the support structure 52. Figure 30 As shown, the support plate 53 has a rectangular quadrilateral channel 53a at its central portion. The quadrilateral channel 53a allows a portion of the molded battery can product 90 to pass through it, such that the trimming line 91 lies on a flat surface including the bottom surface of the support plate 53.

[0098] The lower corner of the quadrilateral channel 53a is a support blade portion 53c. The support blade portion 53c is used to shear the molded battery can product 90 by the lateral movement of the cutting blade of the cutter 20. In addition, the outer surface of the molded battery can product 90 can make surface contact with the inner surface of the quadrilateral channel 53a.

[0099] Furthermore, the target portion 93, protruding downwards from the quadrilateral channel 53a, surrounds the cutter 20. As the cutter 20 moves in the front-back and left-right directions while remaining horizontal, the target portion 93 can be cut.

[0100] The height-holding part supports the molded battery can product 90, thereby preventing the molded battery can product 90 from falling. The trimming line 91 can be held at the same height as the bottom surface of the support plate 53 by the height-holding part. The height-holding part can also be used to fix the molded battery can product 90. That is, the height-holding part prevents the molded battery can product 90 from moving during cutting.

[0101] In this embodiment, the height-holding part is a variable clamp 70. The variable clamp 70 is supported on or by the upper surface of the cutter 20 while being housed inside the molded battery can product 90, and supports the bottom portion 11c of the molded battery can product 90 upwards. The variable clamp 70 can slide on the upper surface of the cutter 20.

[0102] The variable clamp 70 may include a pair of clamp blocks 71 and a spacing adjustment section. The pair of clamp blocks 71 are hexahedral members spaced apart from each other and contact the bottom portion 11c and inner surface of the molded battery can product 90. Furthermore, internal threaded holes 71a (e.g., threaded holes) may be formed in the variable clamp 70. The internal threaded holes 71a are threaded holes formed in opposing surfaces of the pair of clamp blocks 71. The two internal threaded holes 71a are located in a straight line and have opposite helices. That is, the thread of the internal threaded hole on one side is a right-hand thread (e.g., the thread on the right side in the shown orientation), and the thread of the internal threaded hole on the opposite side is a left-hand thread (e.g., the thread on the left side in the shown orientation).

[0103] The spacing adjustment unit is used to adjust the spacing between a pair of clamping blocks 71. The spacing adjustment unit may include a bidirectional screw 73 and a rotatable member 75. The bidirectional screw 73 is a member whose two ends are threaded at both sides to each internal threaded hole 71a of the pair of clamping blocks 71. Furthermore, the rotatable member 75 is a gear-shaped member fixed to the bidirectional screw 73. The rotatable member 75 can be rotated by receiving an external force, causing the bidirectional screw 73 to rotate axially. The spacing between the pair of clamping blocks 71 is adjusted according to the axial rotation of the bidirectional screw 73. Figure 25 An example is shown: a pair of clamping blocks 71 (which are bidirectional) positioned as far apart as possible from each other. The pair of clamping blocks 71 press the molded battery can product 90 against the inner surface of the quadrilateral channel 53a while being as far apart as possible from each other. As a result, the molded battery can product 90 can be stably fixed by being clamped between the pair of clamping blocks 71 and the support plate 53.

[0104] Simultaneously, the can pressing part 60 can downwardly support the molded battery can product 90 supported by the variable clamp 70. The can pressing part 60 can have... Figure 30 The configuration shown.

[0105] As illustrated, the can pressing part 60 may include a pair of support walls 61, a pressing block 65, and a block fixing part.

[0106] A pair of support walls 61 are components fixed to the upper portion of the support plate 53 and are vertically fixed relative to each other, wherein a quadrilateral channel 53a is located between the pair of support walls 61. Internal teeth 61c may be formed on the inner upper surface of each of the pair of support walls 61. The internal teeth 61c are horizontally formed teeth and can engage with side teeth 65a formed on the two end portions of the pressing block 65. Furthermore, elongated vertical holes 61a corresponding to the connecting threaded holes 65c are located in or formed in each support wall. The elongated vertical holes 61a are holes through which fixing screws 62, serving as the fixing part of the block, pass.

[0107] The pressing block 65 is a generally hexahedral component and has side teeth 65a on its two side surfaces. The side teeth 65a are teeth that can mesh with internal teeth 61c. Furthermore, a connecting threaded hole 65c is formed in the inner region of the side teeth 65a. The connecting threaded hole 65c is an internally threaded hole that connects with a fixing screw 62. The pressing block 65 contacts the molded battery can product 90 while being mounted between a pair of support walls 61 to support the molded battery can product 90 downwards. Because the pressing block 65 presses and supports the molded battery can product 90, the molded battery can product 90 does not wobble during cutting.

[0108] The fixing screw 62 is a block fixing part that adjusts or maintains the height of the pressing block 65. When the fixing screw 62 is installed with the height of the pressing block 65 set, the pressing block 65 can be kept fixed.

[0109] Figure 31 This is a flowchart describing a method for cutting a secondary battery can according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0110] The method for cutting secondary battery cans according to this embodiment is a process of using cutting equipment 50 to cut the trimming line 91 of the molded battery can product 90 (for example, cutting at the trimming line 91).

[0111] The method for cutting a secondary battery can may include a molded battery can product setting operation 201, a cutter positioning operation 203, a cutting operation 205, and a cutting operation 207.

[0112] The molding battery can product setting operation 201 is a process for fixing the prepared molding battery can product 90. That is, the molding battery can product setting operation 201 includes making the molding battery can product 90 upright with the variable clamp 70 installed inside the molding battery can product 90 so that the removal target portion 93 protrudes downward from the support plate 53, and also using the pressing block 65 to support the molding battery can product 90 downward.

[0113] Cutter positioning operation 203 is the process of positioning the cutter 20 within the internal space of the molded battery can product 90. Cutter positioning operation 203 may involve positioning the origin 105 of the cutter 20 (see...) Figure 5 The process of aligning the center point of the quadrilateral formed by the removal target portion 93 of the molded battery can product 90 with the center point of the quadrilateral.

[0114] The cutting operation 205 is a process in which the cutter 20 is moved linearly to cause the cutting blade 21 to cut the first short edge 11f. That is, the cutting operation 205 includes... Figure 11 The cutter 20 is moved in the direction of arrow m, such that the cut end portion forms a slit in the first short edge 11f. That is, the cutting operation 205 can be a process of moving the cutting blade 21 along a linear path orthogonal to the first short edge 11f so that the cutting blade 21 passes through the first short edge 11f. When the slit is formed first, the subsequent shearing process becomes much easier.

[0115] Cutting operation 207 (subsequently) is the process of moving the cutter 20 along a curved path and cutting from the slit portion to remove the target portion. That is, cutting operation 207 is performed in a translational manner at arrow n (see...). Figure 14 The process of rotating the cutter 20 in the direction of the cutting line 91 to cut the trimming line 91.

[0116] Traditional cutting equipment suffers from scratches during cutting. This is because the cutter slips slightly relative to the molded product during the cutting process.

[0117] Because the device for cutting secondary battery cans disclosed herein has a structure optimized for cutting prismatic battery cans, it is free from defects such as scratches and thus can form a good cutting surface.

[0118] Furthermore, the molding process allows for quick and easy setup of products, and the products can be stably fixed during cutting, resulting in good work productivity.

[0119] Example embodiments have been disclosed herein, and while specific terminology has been used, they are used and interpreted in a general and descriptive sense only, and not for limiting purposes. In some cases, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art at the time of filing of this application, features, characteristics, and / or elements described in connection with particular embodiments may be used alone or in combination with features, characteristics, and / or elements described in connection with other embodiments, unless otherwise specifically instructed. Therefore, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the claims.

Claims

1. An apparatus for cutting a secondary battery canister, the apparatus comprising: Support members are configured to securely support molded battery can products with the target portion removed; A cutter having a slit blade and a cutting blade, the slit blade being inserted into the molded battery can product, the slit blade being configured to cut a portion of the target removal portion, and the cutting blade being configured to continuously cut from the portion of the target removal portion cut by the slit blade. as well as A cutter driver configured to move the cutter and cause the cutting blade to move along a linear path perpendicular to the inner wall of the molded battery can product, thereby creating a cutting start slit portion on the inner wall, the cutter driver being used to cause the cutting blade to cut from the cutting start slit portion.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The molded battery can product has a first short edge and a second short edge facing each other, as well as a first long edge and a second long edge facing each other. The cutting blade of the cutter includes a first short edge cutting blade portion corresponding to the first short edge, a first long edge cutting blade portion corresponding to the first long edge, a second short edge cutting blade portion corresponding to the second short edge, and a second long edge cutting blade portion corresponding to the second long edge. The cutting blade is formed on the first short edge cutting blade portion.

3. The device of claim 2, wherein the first short edge and the first short edge cutting blade portion, the first long edge and the first long edge cutting blade portion, the second short edge and the second short edge cutting blade portion, and the second long edge and the second long edge cutting blade portion are not parallel.

4. The device of claim 2, wherein the slicing blade protrudes from the first short edge cutting blade portion toward the first short edge, and as the cutter moves toward the first short edge, the slicing blade reaches the first short edge and forms a cut earlier than the first short edge cutting blade portion.

5. The device of claim 4, wherein the cutting blade is located at a point where it divides into 1 / 2 to 3 / 4 of the length of the first short edge cutting blade portion from one end of the first short edge cutting blade portion.

6. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The slicing blade and the cutting blade are formed at the corner between the upper surface and the side surface of the cutter, and The angle between the side surface and the top surface is an acute angle.

7. The device according to claim 6, wherein the angle between the upper surface and the side surface is in the range of 77 degrees to 87 degrees.

8. The device of claim 3, wherein the second short edge cutting blade portion has an angle between 15 and 25 degrees relative to the second short edge.

9. The device of claim 3, wherein the first long edge cutting blade portion has an angle between 1 degree and 4 degrees relative to the first long edge.

10. The device of claim 3, wherein the second long edge cutting blade portion has an angle between 1 degree and 4 degrees relative to the second long edge.

11. The device according to claim 1, wherein the support member comprises: A support plate, fixed to the cutter, the support plate having a quadrilateral channel through which the target portion of the molded battery can product is removed passes downward, such that the target portion is removed surrounds the cutter; as well as A height-retaining part is configured to support the molded battery can product to prevent it from falling.

12. The device of claim 11, wherein the height holding portion has a variable clamp that, when housed inside the molded battery can product, is supported by the upper surface of the cutter and supports the bottom portion of the molded battery can product upward.

13. The device of claim 12, wherein the variable clamp comprises: A pair of clamping blocks, spaced apart from each other and in contact with the bottom portion and inner surface of the molded battery can product; as well as An interval adjustment unit is configured to adjust the interval between the pair of clamp blocks.

14. The device according to claim 13, wherein: Threaded holes are formed in the opposing surfaces of the pair of clamping blocks in a straight line, the threaded holes facing each other, and the thread of the threaded hole on one side is a right-hand thread, while the thread of the threaded hole on the opposite side is a left-hand thread. The interval adjustment unit includes: A bidirectional screw, the two ends of which are threaded to the threaded holes of the pair of clamping blocks at both sides; and A rotatable member is fixed to the bidirectional screw, the rotatable member being configured to rotate by receiving an external force to cause the bidirectional screw to rotate axially.

15. The device of claim 12, wherein the support further comprises a can pressing portion configured to downwardly support the molded battery can product supported by the variable clamp.

16. The device according to claim 15, wherein the can pressing part comprises: A pair of support walls are fixed to the upper part of the support plate, the pair of support walls are fixed on opposite sides, and the quadrilateral channel is located between the pair of support walls; A pressing block, installed between the pair of support walls, presses against the molded battery can product; and A block fixing part is used to maintain the height of the pressing block.

17. The apparatus according to claim 16, wherein: Horizontal internal teeth are formed on the inner surfaces of the pair of support walls, and Side teeth that can mesh with the horizontal internal teeth are formed on the two side surfaces of the pressing block.

18. The apparatus according to claim 17, wherein: The connecting threaded holes are formed in the two side surfaces of the pressing block. An elongated vertical hole corresponding to each of the connecting threaded holes is formed in each support wall, and The block fixing part has a fixing screw that passes through the long vertical hole and connects to the connecting threaded hole.

19. A method for cutting a secondary battery canister, the method comprising: A fixed molded battery can product, the molded battery can product having a first short edge and a second short edge facing each other and a first long edge and a second long edge facing each other, and having a removal target portion that can be removed by a trimming process; The cutter is positioned inside the molded battery can product. The cutter has a first short edge cutting blade portion corresponding to the first short edge, a first long edge cutting blade portion corresponding to the first long edge, a second short edge cutting blade portion corresponding to the second short edge, a second long edge cutting blade portion corresponding to the second long edge, and a cutting blade formed on the first short edge cutting blade portion. The cutting blade protrudes outward from the first short edge cutting blade portion. The cutter is moved linearly so that the cutting blade cuts through the first short edge to form a cut portion in the first short edge; as well as The cutter is moved along the curved path, starting from the cut portion and cutting the target portion to be removed.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the linear movement of the cutter comprises moving the cutting blade along a linear path orthogonal to the first short edge such that the cutting blade passes through the first short edge.

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