Steering device for battery core welding

Abstract

A steering device for battery core welding comprises a feeding mechanism, a guide rail and a driving mechanism. The feeding mechanism comprises an assembling box, a transmission structure, a clamping jaw structure and a switching structure. The transmission structure is arranged in the assembly box, the clamping jaw structure and the switching structure are both arranged outside the assembly box, the clamping jaw structure and the switching structure are both connected with the transmission structure, and the clamping jaw structure is used for clamping a battery cell. The guide rail bears the feeding mechanism and is provided with an intercepting structure. The driving mechanism is connected with the assembly box. The feeding mechanism has a first state and a second state, in the first state, the switching structure and the intercepting structure are distributed at intervals, and the clamping jaw structure can linearly move along with the assembly box. And in the second state, the switching structure abuts against the intercepting structure, the transmission structure is used for driving the clamping jaw structure to rotate, and the clamping jaw structure can linearly move along with the assembly box and can also rotate relative to the assembly box. And the designed steering device can automatically realize rotation of the clamping jaw structure, so that the welding operation of the battery core is simplified, and the welding efficiency is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of battery processing technology, and specifically to a steering device for battery cell welding. Background Technology

[0002] During processing, battery cells are transported to the worker's location via guide rails, where they are welded. Typically, one worker is positioned between two guide rails, and they are required to weld cells from both sides. For adjacent guide rails, if a battery cell on one rail is closer to the worker and another on the other, the worker must manually move the farther-positioned cell to facilitate welding. This manual repositioning of the battery cells adds steps and reduces welding efficiency. Utility Model Content

[0003] This application provides a steering device for battery cell welding, the main purpose of which is to simplify the battery cell welding operation steps and improve the battery cell welding efficiency.

[0004] One embodiment of this application provides a steering device for battery cell welding, comprising:

[0005] A feeding mechanism includes an assembly box, a transmission structure, a gripper structure, and a switching structure. The transmission structure is disposed inside the assembly box, while the gripper structure and the switching structure are disposed outside the assembly box and are connected to the transmission structure. The gripper structure is used to hold battery cells.

[0006] Guide rail, the guide rail supporting the feeding mechanism, the guide rail being provided with an interception structure; and

[0007] A drive mechanism is connected to the assembly box, and the drive mechanism is used to drive the assembly box to move linearly along the guide rail;

[0008] The feeding mechanism has a first state and a second state. In the first state, the switching structure and the intercepting structure are spaced apart, and the gripper structure can move linearly with the assembly box. In the second state, the switching structure and the intercepting structure abut against each other, and the transmission structure is used to drive the gripper structure to rotate. The gripper structure can move linearly with the assembly box and rotate relative to the assembly box.

[0009] In one embodiment, the gripper structure rotates at an angle of 180°, and the axis of rotation of the gripper structure is perpendicular to the plane corresponding to the movement of the assembly box.

[0010] In one embodiment, the transmission structure includes a meshing gear and a rack; the rack is sleeved with the assembly box, the switching structure is connected to the rack, the gripper structure is fixedly connected to the gear, and the gripper structure is rotatably connected to the assembly box; in the first state, the gear, rack, and assembly box are all relatively stationary; in the second state, the rack is stationary relative to the interception structure, and the gear rotates relative to the rack.

[0011] In one embodiment, the gripper structure includes a first rotating shaft, a gripper portion, and a fixed base. The fixed base is fixed to one end face of the assembly box away from the guide rail. The first rotating shaft and the fixed base are rotatably connected. The first rotating shaft and the gear are fixedly connected. The gripper portion is fixed to the first rotating shaft and is used to grip the battery cell.

[0012] In one embodiment, the gripper structure further includes pads, and the gripper portion includes at least a pair of grippers, with the pads provided on the surfaces of the pair of grippers that are close to each other, the pads being used to abut against the battery cell.

[0013] In one embodiment, the gripper structure further includes an assembly plate and a first elastic element; a second mounting hole is formed on the gripper toe, and the pad is movably disposed in the second mounting hole; the surfaces of the gripper toes that are close to each other are the inner surfaces, and the surfaces of the gripper toes that are far apart from each other are the outer surfaces; a portion of the pad protrudes relative to the inner surfaces, and the assembly plate is fixed on the outer surfaces; the two ends of the first elastic element are respectively connected to the pad and the assembly plate.

[0014] In one embodiment, the second mounting hole is a stepped hole, the radial dimension of the stepped hole near the inner side is smaller than the radial dimension of the stepped hole near the outer side, and the shape of the pad is adapted to the shape of the stepped hole.

[0015] In one embodiment, the gripper structure further includes a connecting block and a second rotating shaft. The connecting block is fixedly connected to the first rotating shaft, and either end of the second rotating shaft is fixedly or rotatably connected to the connecting block. The other end of the second rotating shaft is rotatably or fixedly connected to the gripper portion. The axial direction of the first rotating shaft, the axial direction of the second rotating shaft, and the direction of linear movement of the assembly box are all perpendicular to each other.

[0016] In one embodiment, the feeding mechanism further includes an elastic reset structure disposed within the assembly box. The elastic reset structure includes a first connector, a second connector, and a second elastic member. The first connector is fixed to the assembly box, the second connector is fixed to the rack, and both ends of the second elastic member are respectively connected to the first connector and the second connector. When the gear moves relative to the rack, the second elastic member is stretched. And / or, it further includes a limiting structure. The limiting structure includes a contact member and a pair of limiting members. The contact member is fixed to the assembly box, and the pair of limiting members are fixed at intervals to the guide rail. The limiting members are used to abut against the contact member to limit the stroke of the assembly box.

[0017] In one embodiment, the feeding mechanism further includes a guide structure for assisting the assembly box to move linearly relative to the rack.

[0018] In one embodiment, at least two gripper structures are configured, and the gears and gripper structures are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence.

[0019] In one embodiment, the guide rail is hollow inside, and a guide groove is provided on the side of the guide rail facing the assembly box. The driving mechanism includes a nut and a lead screw, both located inside the guide rail, and the nut and the lead screw are threadedly connected. It also includes an adapter, one end of which is connected to the assembly box, and the other end of which is connected to the nut.

[0020] According to the steering device for battery cell welding in the above embodiments, a transmission structure is provided inside the assembly box of the feeding mechanism. The gripper structure and switching structure outside the assembly box are respectively connected to the transmission structure. Furthermore, the feeding mechanism has a first state and a second state. In the first state, the switching structure and the intercepting structure are spaced apart. At this time, the drive mechanism drives the assembly box to move linearly along the guide rail, and the gripper structure can move linearly with the assembly box to transport the battery cells, i.e., transport the battery cells closer to the operator. Under the action of the drive mechanism, the feeding mechanism moves linearly as a whole, and the switching structure continuously approaches the intercepting structure until the switching structure and the intercepting structure abut. At this time, the feeding mechanism is in the second state, and the transmission structure drives the gripper structure to rotate. The gripper structure can both move linearly with the assembly box and rotate relative to the assembly box. The designed steering device eliminates the need for operators to manually change the position of the gripper structure. The rotation of the gripper structure, i.e., the relative position of the switching gripper structure 13, can be automatically achieved through mechanical cooperation, effectively simplifying the battery cell welding operation steps and improving the battery cell welding efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the steering device in one embodiment of this application;

[0022] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a usage scenario of the steering device in one embodiment of this application;

[0023] Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the feeding mechanism in one embodiment of this application;

[0024] Figure 4 This is an exploded view of the feeding mechanism in one embodiment of this application;

[0025] Figure 5 This is an exploded view of a partial feeding mechanism in one embodiment of this application;

[0026] Figure 6 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of a partial feeding mechanism in one embodiment of this application;

[0027] Figure 7 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the steering device in one embodiment of this application;

[0028] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the exploded structure of the steering device in one embodiment of this application;

[0029] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the planar structure of a partial steering device in one embodiment of this application.

[0030] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 10. Feeding mechanism; 11. Assembly box; 111. Box body; 1111. First support position; 1112. Second support position; 112. Cover; 1121. First mounting hole; 12. Transmission structure; 121. Gear; 122. Rack; 13. Grip structure; 131. First rotating shaft; 132. Grip portion; 1321. Grip toe; 1322. Second mounting hole; 1323. Inner side; 1324. Outer side; 133. Fixing seat; 134. Pad; 1341. Blind hole; 135. Assembly plate; 136. First elastic element; 137. Connecting block; 1371. First block; 1372. Second block; 138. Second rotating shaft; 139. Bearing; 1310. Snap ring. 14. Switching structure; 141. Connector; 142. Screw; 15. Elastic reset structure; 151. First connector; 152. Second connector; 153. Second elastic element; 16. Guide structure; 161. Slide rail; 162. Slider; 20. Guide rail; 21. Interception structure; 211. Assembly; 212. Interception element; 22. First sealing plate; 23. Second sealing plate; 24. Adapter plate; 25. Mounting shell; 30. Drive mechanism; 31. Drive element; 311. Power shaft; 32. Main gear; 33. Secondary gear; 34. Lead screw; 35. Nut; 40. Battery cell; 50. Limiting mechanism; 51. Contact element; 52. Limiting element; 60. Adapter; 61. Adapter block; 62. Adapter shell. Detailed Implementation

[0031] The present application will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. Similar elements in different embodiments are referred to by related similar element reference numerals. In the following embodiments, many details are described to facilitate a better understanding of the present application. However, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that some features may be omitted in different situations, or may be replaced by other elements, materials, or methods. In some cases, certain operations related to the present application are not shown or described in the specification. This is to avoid obscuring the core parts of the present application with excessive description. For those skilled in the art, detailed description of these related operations is not necessary; they can fully understand the related operations based on the description in the specification and general technical knowledge in the art.

[0032] Furthermore, the features, operations, or characteristics described in the specification can be combined in any suitable manner to form various embodiments. At the same time, the steps or actions in the method description can be rearranged or adjusted in a manner obvious to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the various orders in the specification and drawings are only for the clear description of a particular embodiment and do not imply a necessary order, unless otherwise stated that a particular order must be followed.

[0033] The serial numbers assigned to components in this document, such as "first" and "second," are used only to distinguish the described objects and have no sequential or technical meaning. The terms "connection" and "linkage" used in this application, unless otherwise specified, include both direct and indirect connections (linkages).

[0034] One embodiment of this application provides a steering device for battery cell welding. The steering device includes a feeding mechanism 10, a guide rail 20, and a drive mechanism 30. The battery cell 40 to be welded is fixed on the feeding mechanism 10, the guide rail 20 supports the feeding mechanism 10, and the drive mechanism 30 provides the power for the feeding mechanism 10 to move. Under the action of the drive mechanism 30, and with the cooperation of the guide rail 20 and the feeding mechanism 10, the gripper structure 13 in the feeding mechanism 10 is rotated, moving the gripper structure 13 to a suitable position, that is, rotating the battery cell 40 to a suitable position, so that the worker can weld the battery cell 40. Taking two adjacent guide rails 20 as an example, the application scenario for welding the battery cell 40 is explained. Before the gripper structure 13 rotates, the positions of the feeding mechanism 10 on the two guide rails 20 are as follows: Figure 1 As shown, when the gripper structure 13 rotates, as Figure 2As shown, the feeding mechanisms 10 on the two guide rails 20 are distributed facing each other. Based on the distribution pattern and usage scenario of the feeding mechanisms 10 on the two guide rails 20, only the gripper structure 13 on one guide rail 20 needs to be rotated. The specific technical solution for the steering device used for battery cell welding is described below:

[0035] like Figures 1-9 As shown, a steering device for battery cell welding includes: a feeding mechanism 10, a guide rail 20, and a drive mechanism 30.

[0036] The feeding mechanism 10 includes an assembly box 11, a transmission structure 12, a gripper structure 13, and a switching structure 14. The transmission structure 12 is disposed inside the assembly box 11, while the gripper structure 13 and the switching structure 14 are both disposed outside the assembly box 11 and are connected to the transmission structure 12. The gripper structure 13 is used to hold the battery cell 40.

[0037] The guide rail 20 supports the feeding mechanism 10 and is provided with an intercepting structure 21. The drive mechanism 30 is connected to the assembly box 11 and is used to drive the assembly box 11 to move linearly along the guide rail 20.

[0038] The feeding mechanism 10 has a first state and a second state. In the first state, the switching structure 14 and the intercepting structure 21 are spaced apart, and the gripper structure 13 can move linearly with the assembly box 11. In the second state, the switching structure 14 and the intercepting structure 21 abut against each other, and the transmission structure 12 drives the gripper structure 13 to rotate. The gripper structure 13 can move linearly with the assembly box 11 and rotate relative to the assembly box 11.

[0039] Using the steering device (hereinafter referred to as steering device) for battery cell welding in the above embodiment, the assembly box 11 of the feeding mechanism 10 is provided with a transmission structure 12. The gripper structure 13 and the switching structure 14 outside the assembly box 11 are respectively connected to the transmission structure 12. The feeding mechanism 10 has a first state and a second state. In the first state, the switching structure 14 and the intercepting structure 21 are distributed at intervals. At this time, the drive mechanism 30 drives the assembly box 11 to move linearly along the guide rail 20. The gripper structure 13 can move linearly with the assembly box 11 to transport the battery cell 40, that is, to transport the battery cell 40 closer to the operator. Under the action of the drive mechanism 30, the feeding mechanism 10 moves linearly as a whole. The switching structure 14 continuously moves closer to the intercepting structure 21 until the switching structure 14 and the intercepting structure 21 come into contact. At this time, the feeding mechanism 10 is in the second state. The transmission structure 12 is used to drive the gripper structure 13 to rotate. The gripper structure 13 can move linearly with the assembly box 11 and can also rotate relative to the assembly box 11. The designed steering device eliminates the need for manual adjustment of the gripper structure 13 position by operators. The rotation of the gripper structure 13 can be automatically achieved through mechanical cooperation, which also switches the relative position of the gripper structure 13. This effectively simplifies the welding operation steps of the battery cell 40 and improves the welding efficiency of the battery cell 40.

[0040] like Figure 1 As shown, the gripper structure 13 rotates at an angle of 180°, and the axis of rotation of the gripper structure 13 is perpendicular to the plane corresponding to the movement of the assembly box 11. To facilitate the description of the steering mechanism's operation, in... Figure 1 The diagram indicates three mutually perpendicular directions: a first direction, a second direction, and a third direction. Correspondingly, the assembly box 11 moves linearly along the first direction, the axis corresponding to the rotation axis of the gripper structure 13 is parallel to the second direction, and the plane corresponding to the movement of the assembly box 11 is parallel to the plane formed by the first direction and the third direction. The rotation angle of the gripper structure 13 can be changed according to actual needs; for example, the rotation angle of the gripper structure 13 can be set to 150°. It should be noted that the first direction, second direction, and third direction mentioned in this document all correspond to... Figure 1 The directions indicated in the text are consistent.

[0041] like Figures 3-4 As shown, the transmission structure 12 includes a meshing gear 121 and a rack 122. The rack 122 is sleeved with the assembly box 11, the switching structure 14 is connected to the rack 122, the gripper structure 13 is fixedly connected to the gear 121, and the gripper structure 13 is rotatably connected to the assembly box 11. In the first state, the gear 121, rack 122, and assembly box 11 are all relatively stationary. In the second state, the rack 122 is stationary relative to the intercepting structure 21, and the gear 121 rotates relative to the rack 122.

[0042] by Figure 1For example, initially, the feeding mechanism 10 has no battery cell 40 on it. The feeding mechanism 10 is located at the rightmost end of the guide rail 20. The battery cell 40 is placed on the gripper structure 13 mechanically or manually. After the battery cell 40 is placed on the feeding mechanism 10, the drive mechanism 30 is activated, and the feeding mechanism 10 moves to the left along the guide rail 20, that is, it moves closer to the interception structure 21. Before the switching structure 14 and the interception structure 21 come into contact, the feeding mechanism 10 is in the first state. When the feeding mechanism 10 moves to the point where the switching structure 14 and the intercepting structure 21 come into contact, the feeding mechanism 10 switches to the second state. At this time, the drive mechanism 30 continues to operate. Because the switching structure 14 and the intercepting structure 21 are in contact, the rack 122 and the switching structure 14 are intercepted and cannot move. At this time, the gear 121 rotates relative to the rack 122 and continues to move to the left. Since the gear 121 and the gripper structure 13 are fixedly connected, and the gripper structure 13 and the assembly box 11 are rotatably connected, the gear 121, the gripper structure 13, and the assembly box 11 will move to the left synchronously. At the same time, the gripper structure 13 will rotate synchronously with the gear 121, completing the switching of the position of the gripper structure 13. It can be understood that the left and right mentioned refer to the orientation along the first direction.

[0043] Specifically, such as Figure 1 , Figures 3-4 as well as Figure 8 As shown, the interception structure 21 includes an assembly 211 and an interceptor 212. The interceptor 212 is fixed to one end of the assembly 211, and the other end of the assembly 211 is fixed to the side wall of the guide rail 20. The switching structure 14 includes a connector 141 and a screw 142. The screw 142 is threaded to one end of the connector 141, and the other end of the connector 141 is connected to the rack 122. The screw 142 is used to abut against the interceptor 212. The assembly 211 and the interceptor 212 can be two independent parts or an integral structure. Alternatively, the interception structure 21 may only include the assembly 211, and the switching structure 14 may only include the connector 141. The connector 141 can be plate-shaped, block-shaped, or other structures. Here, as long as the interception structure 21 can effectively intercept the switching structure 14, this application does not impose specific limitations.

[0044] More specifically, such as Figure 4As shown, the assembly box 11 includes a detachably connected box body 111 and a cover 112. A gripper structure 13 is rotatably connected to the cover 112, and a drive mechanism 30 is connected to the box body 111. A first support position 1111 and a second support position 1112 are respectively provided on the side wall facing the first direction of the box body 111. The first support position 1111 and the second support position 1112 can be hole-shaped or groove-shaped support positions; for example, the first support position 1111 is hole-shaped, and the second support position 1112 is groove-shaped. The rack 122 can be completely placed inside the assembly box 11, or it can partially extend out of the assembly box 11; for example, one end of the rack 122 extends out of the assembly box 11 and connects to the switching structure 14. The switching structure 14 can be directly fixedly connected to the rack 122 or rotatably fitted to it. When the switching structure 14 and the rack 122 are rotatably connected, the position of the switching structure 14 can be changed as needed, for example... Figure 2 As shown, the gripper structure 13 on one guide rail 20 does not need to rotate. In this case, the switching structure 14 can be retracted, that is, the switching structure 14 and the intercepting structure 21 are staggered and will not contact each other when they are close to each other. When the gripper structure 13 needs to rotate, the switching structure 14 and the intercepting structure 21 are aligned so that they can contact each other and complete the switching of the state of the feeding mechanism 10. In other embodiments, the rack 122 can also be completely placed inside the assembly box 11. Correspondingly, a support position for engaging with the rack 122 is provided inside the assembly box 11. In addition to connecting with the end of the rack 122, the switching structure 14 can also connect with the part between the two ends of the rack 122. In this case, a strip hole can be opened on the side wall of the assembly box 11, which facilitates the connection between the switching structure 14 and the rack 122 and also facilitates the linear movement of the assembly box 11 relative to the rack 122.

[0045] like Figures 3-4 As shown in this embodiment, the gripper structure 13 includes a first rotating shaft 131, a gripper portion 132, and a fixing seat 133. The fixing seat 133 is fixed to the end face of the assembly box 11 away from the guide rail 20. The first rotating shaft 131 and the fixing seat 133 are rotatably connected. The first rotating shaft 131 and the gear 121 are fixedly connected. The gripper portion 132 is fixed to the first rotating shaft 131 and is used to grip the battery cell 40. A first mounting hole 1121 is provided on the cover 112 of the assembly box 11. The fixing seat 133 is fixed to the first mounting hole 1121. The first rotating shaft 131 passes through the first mounting hole 1121 and is fixedly connected to the gear 121. The fixed seat 133 provides support for the first rotating shaft 131 and the structure on the first rotating shaft 131, so as to prevent the weight of the gripper structure 13 from being borne on the gear 121 and affecting the rotation of the gear 121. Correspondingly, the first rotating shaft 131 is provided with a stepped surface so as to abut against the fixed seat 133. It can be understood that the stepped surface refers to the surface formed at the junction of the first rotating shaft 131 with different diameter segments.

[0046] like Figure 4As shown, the gripper structure 13 also includes pads 134. The gripper portion 132 includes at least one pair of grippers 1321, and pads 134 are provided on the surfaces of the pairs of grippers 1321 that are close to each other. The pads 134 are used to abut against the battery cell 40. For example, the gripper portion 132 includes two pairs of grippers 1321, which are spaced apart along the second direction. The pads 134 are made of elastic material to ensure that the workpiece (battery cell 40) will not fall off due to clearance fit under the influence of workpiece dimensional errors, and also to avoid damage to the workpiece when the pads 134 clamp it.

[0047] like Figure 5 As shown, the gripper structure 13 also includes an assembly plate 135 and a first elastic element 136. A second mounting hole 1322 is formed on the gripper toes 1321, and a pad 134 is movably disposed within the second mounting hole 1322. The surfaces of the gripper toes 1321 that are close to each other are the inner surfaces 1323, and the surfaces of the gripper toes 1321 that are far apart are the outer surfaces 1324. Part of the pad 134 protrudes relative to the inner surface 1323, and the assembly plate 135 is fixed on the outer surface 1324. The two ends of the first elastic element 136 are connected to the pad 134 and the assembly plate 135 respectively. By providing the first elastic element 136 (e.g., a spring) between the pad 134 and the assembly plate 135, the deformation of the spring provides the pad 134 with a certain amount of movement space, allowing for the adaptation of battery cells 40 of different models or sizes, increasing the application range of the feeding mechanism 10, and reducing the processing cost of the battery cells 40. A blind hole 1341 can be opened on the side of the pad 134 facing the assembly plate 135, and part of the first elastic element 136 is connected to the blind hole 1341.

[0048] More preferably, the second mounting hole 1322 is a stepped hole, with the radial dimension of the stepped hole near the inner side 1323 being smaller than the radial dimension of the stepped hole near the outer side 1324. The shape of the pad 134 matches the shape of the stepped hole. For example, the hole near the inner side 1323 is a rectangular hole, and the hole near the outer side 1324 is also a rectangular hole, but the diameter of the stepped hole near the inner side 1323 is smaller than the diameter of the stepped hole near the outer side 1324. The stepped hole and the pad 134, which matches the shape of the stepped hole, can limit the pad 134 and prevent it from coming out of the second mounting hole 1322.

[0049] like Figure 5 As shown, the gripper structure 13 also includes a connecting block 137 and a second rotating shaft 138, with the connecting block 137 and the first rotating shaft 131 fixedly connected. Either end of the second rotating shaft 138 is fixedly or rotatably connected to the connecting block 137, and the other end of the second rotating shaft 138 is rotatably or fixedly connected to the gripper portion 132. For example... Figure 5As shown, one end of the second rotating shaft 138 is fixedly connected to the gripper portion 132, and the other end of the second rotating shaft 138 is rotatably connected to the connecting block 137. When the second rotating shaft 138 and the connecting block 137 are rotatably connected, they can be tightly fitted together, thus allowing the gripper portion 132 to rotate and its position to be locked immediately (by stopping the rotation operation). For example, one end of the second rotating shaft 138 is fixedly connected to the connecting block 137, and the other end of the second rotating shaft 138 is rotatably connected to the gripper portion 132. The axial direction of the first rotating shaft 131 is parallel to the second direction, and the axial direction of the second rotating shaft 138 is parallel to the third direction. The axial directions of the first rotating shaft 131, the second rotating shaft 138, and the direction of linear movement of the assembly box 11 are all perpendicular to each other. The first rotating shaft 131 rotates with the gear 121 to switch the position of the gripper structure 13 relative to different sides of the guide rail 20, and the second rotating shaft 138 rotates to switch the different end faces of the battery cell 40 to be welded in the gripper structure 13.

[0050] like Figure 5 As shown, the connecting block 137 includes a first block 1371 and a second block 1372. Arc-shaped grooves are respectively formed on the first block 1371 and the second block 1372. These arc-shaped grooves contact the sidewall of the first rotating shaft 131. The first rotating shaft 131 can be clamped between the first block 1371 and the second block 1372 to achieve a fixed connection between the connecting block 137 and the first rotating shaft 131. Based on the connection method between the connecting block 137 and the first rotating shaft 131, the first block 1371 can be a larger block. An arc-shaped groove is formed at one end of the first block 1371 near the first rotating shaft 131. The second block 1372 is a smaller block. The first block 1371 and the second block 1372 together form a structure similar to a rectangle. A mounting hole for connecting the second rotating shaft 138 is provided on the side of the connecting block 137 away from the first rotating shaft 131. A bearing 139 is provided between the mounting hole and the second rotating shaft 138. A retaining ring 1310 is provided on the side of the second rotating shaft 138 away from the gripper portion 132.

[0051] like Figure 6As shown, the feeding mechanism 10 also includes an elastic reset structure 15 disposed within the assembly box 11. The elastic reset structure 15 includes a first connecting member 151, a second connecting member 152, and a second elastic member 153. The first connecting member 151 is fixed to the assembly box 11, the second connecting member 152 is fixed to the rack 122, and both ends of the second elastic member 153 are connected to the first connecting member 151 and the second connecting member 152, respectively. When the gear 121 moves relative to the rack 122, the second elastic member 153 is stretched. One end of the first connecting member 151 is fixed to the cover 112 or the box 111, and the other end of the first connecting member 151 is connected to the second elastic member 153. One end of the second connecting member 152 is fixed to the rack 122, and the other end of the second connecting member 152 is connected to the second elastic member 153. The first connecting member 151 and the second connecting member 152 are, for example, bolts, and the second elastic member 153 is, for example, a spring, an elastic rope, etc. With the elastic reset structure 15, when the first rotating shaft 131 drives the gripper part 132 to rotate, it can assist the assembly box 11, gear 121 and gripper structure 13 in the relative displacement that occurs after the switching structure 14 and the interception structure 21 come into contact. The reset function is realized in a purely mechanical way, reducing the power consumption of the steering device and simplifying the use procedures of the steering device.

[0052] like Figure 7 As shown, the steering device also includes a limiting structure, which includes a contact member 51 and a pair of limiting members 52. The contact member 51 is fixed to the assembly box 11, and the pair of limiting members 52 are fixed at intervals to the guide rail 20. The limiting members 52 are used to abut against the contact member 51 to limit the travel of the assembly box 11. The contact member 51 can be, for example, block-shaped or plate-shaped, and the limiting members 52 can be, for example, block-shaped, plate-shaped, column-shaped, or pressure sensors. Typically, the drive mechanism 30 can preset the travel of the feeding mechanism 10. When a malfunction occurs, the contact member 51 and the limiting members 52 can cooperate to limit the travel of the feeding mechanism 10, preventing excessive movement of the feeding mechanism 10. When the limiting member 52 is a pressure sensor, it can also be used for signal feedback, facilitating timely stopping of the drive mechanism 30.

[0053] like Figure 4 As shown, the feeding mechanism 10 also includes a guide structure 16, which assists in the linear movement of the assembly box 11 relative to the rack 122. The guide structure 16 is disposed within the assembly box 11 and includes a slide rail 161 and a slider 162. The slide rail 161 is fixed to one end face of the rack 122 facing the cover 112, and the slider 162 is fixed to the cover 112. In the second state of the feeding mechanism 10, this facilitates the movement of the assembly box 11 relative to the rack 122, or reduces the resistance to the movement of the assembly box 11 relative to the rack 122.

[0054] like Figures 1-9As shown, at least two gripper structures 13 are configured, with a one-to-one correspondence between the gear 121 and the gripper structure 13. For example, in this embodiment, two gripper structures 13 are configured in the feeding mechanism 10, and the two gripper structures 13 on the same feeding mechanism 10 can rotate synchronously. Multiple gripper structures 13 can improve the operating efficiency of the steering device and the welding efficiency of the battery cell 40. In other embodiments, three, four, five, etc., gripper structures 13 on the same feeding mechanism 10 can also be configured.

[0055] like Figures 8-9 As shown in this embodiment, the guide rail 20 is hollow inside, and a guide groove (not shown) is provided on the side of the guide rail 20 facing the assembly box 11. The drive mechanism 30 includes a drive component 31, a main gear 32, a secondary gear 33, a lead screw 34, and a nut 35. The drive shaft 311 of the drive component 31 (e.g., a motor or other power component) is fixedly connected to the main gear 32, and the main gear 32 and the secondary gear 33 mesh. The lead screw 34 and the secondary gear 33 are fixedly connected, and the nut 35 is threaded onto the lead screw 34. Specifically, a first sealing plate 22 and a second sealing plate 23 are fixedly fixed at both ends of the guide rail 20 along the first direction. The guide rail 20 also includes a transition plate 24 and a mounting shell 25. One side of the transition plate 24 is fixedly connected to the second sealing plate 23, and the other side of the transition plate 24 is fixedly connected to the mounting shell 25. The meshing main gear 32 and secondary gear 33 are both placed inside the mounting shell 25. The drive component 31 is fixed to the side of the guide rail 20 away from the feeding mechanism 10, and is located near the adapter plate 24. The power shaft 311 passes through the adapter plate 24 and connects to the main gear 32 inside the mounting housing 25. The lead screw 34 and nut 35 are both placed inside the guide rail 20, and one end of the lead screw 34 passes through the adapter plate 24 and connects to the secondary gear 33 inside the mounting housing 25. The specific structure of the guide rail 20 and the design of the drive mechanism 30 described here are merely examples and should not be construed as limiting this application. For example, the drive mechanism 30 can also be entirely placed inside the guide rail 20 without the adapter plate 24 and mounting housing 25. In addition to the drive method of lead screw 34 and nut 35, the drive mechanism 30 can also be driven by gear chains, conveyor belts, etc.

[0056] like Figure 8 As shown, the steering device also includes a converter 60, one end of which is connected to the assembly box 11, and the other end of which is connected to the nut 35. The converter 60 includes a converter block 61 and a converter shell 62. One side of the converter block 61 is connected to the nut 35, and the other side of the converter block 61 is connected to the converter shell 62. The box body 111 of the assembly box 11 is fixed to the converter shell 62. By setting the converter 60, the feeding mechanism 10 and the nut 35 can be indirectly connected, and sufficient support surface can be provided for the feeding mechanism 10.

[0057] The steering device in the above embodiments of this application allows the gripper structure 13 to rotate via the cooperation of the first rotating shaft 131 and the gear 121. This makes the placement of the battery cells 40 on the gripper structure 13 more ergonomic, allowing workers to directly weld the battery cells 40 on different sides without manually changing the position of the gripper structure 13. Since both ends of the battery cells 40 need to be welded, rotating the second rotating shaft 138 switches between different end faces of the battery cells 40 to be welded on the gripper portion 132, reducing space requirements and making the steering device structure more compact.

[0058] The above examples illustrate this application only to aid understanding and are not intended to limit its scope. Those skilled in the art to which this application pertains can make various simple deductions, modifications, or substitutions based on the ideas presented.

Claims

1. A steering device for welding battery cells, characterized in that, include: A feeding mechanism includes an assembly box, a transmission structure, a gripper structure, and a switching structure. The transmission structure is disposed inside the assembly box, while the gripper structure and the switching structure are disposed outside the assembly box and are connected to the transmission structure. The gripper structure is used to hold battery cells. Guide rail, the guide rail supporting the feeding mechanism, the guide rail being provided with an interception structure; and A drive mechanism is connected to the assembly box, and the drive mechanism is used to drive the assembly box to move linearly along the guide rail; The feeding mechanism has a first state and a second state. In the first state, the switching structure and the intercepting structure are spaced apart, and the gripper structure can move linearly with the assembly box. In the second state, the switching structure and the intercepting structure abut against each other, and the transmission structure is used to drive the gripper structure to rotate. The gripper structure can move linearly with the assembly box and rotate relative to the assembly box.

2. The steering device for battery cell welding as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The gripper structure rotates at an angle of 180°, and the axis of rotation of the gripper structure is perpendicular to the plane corresponding to the movement of the assembly box.

3. The steering device for battery cell welding as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The transmission structure includes a meshing gear and a rack; the rack is sleeved with the assembly box, the switching structure is connected to the rack, the gripper structure is fixedly connected to the gear, and the gripper structure is rotatably connected to the assembly box; in the first state, the gear, rack, and assembly box are all relatively stationary; in the second state, the rack is stationary relative to the interception structure, and the gear rotates relative to the rack.

4. The steering device for battery cell welding as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The gripper structure includes a first rotating shaft, a gripper portion, and a fixed base. The fixed base is fixed to the end face of the assembly box away from the guide rail. The first rotating shaft and the fixed base are rotatably connected. The first rotating shaft and the gear are fixedly connected. The gripper portion is fixed to the first rotating shaft and is used to grip the battery cell.

5. The steering device for battery cell welding as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The gripper structure further includes pads, and the gripper portion includes at least a pair of grippers. The pads are provided on the surfaces of the pair of grippers that are close to each other, and the pads are used to abut against the battery cell.

6. The steering device for battery cell welding as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The gripper structure further includes an assembly plate and a first elastic element; a second mounting hole is provided on the gripper toe, and the pad is movably disposed in the second mounting hole; the surfaces of the gripper toes that are close to each other are the inner surfaces, and the surfaces of the gripper toes that are far apart from each other are the outer surfaces; part of the pad protrudes relative to the inner surface, and the assembly plate is fixed on the outer surface, and the two ends of the first elastic element are respectively connected to the pad and the assembly plate.

7. The steering device for battery cell welding as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The second mounting hole is a stepped hole, and the radial dimension of the stepped hole near the inner side is smaller than the radial dimension of the stepped hole near the outer side. The shape of the pad is adapted to the shape of the stepped hole.

8. The steering device for battery cell welding as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The gripper structure further includes a connecting block and a second rotating shaft. The connecting block is fixedly connected to the first rotating shaft. One end of the second rotating shaft is fixedly or rotatably connected to the connecting block. The other end of the second rotating shaft is rotatably or fixedly connected to the gripper portion. The axial direction of the first rotating shaft, the axial direction of the second rotating shaft, and the direction of linear movement of the assembly box are all perpendicular to each other.

9. The steering device for battery cell welding as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The feeding mechanism also includes an elastic reset structure disposed in the assembly box. The elastic reset structure includes a first connector, a second connector, and a second elastic member. The first connector is fixed to the assembly box, the second connector is fixed to the rack, and the two ends of the second elastic member are respectively connected to the first connector and the second connector. When the gear moves relative to the rack, the second elastic member is stretched. And / or, it also includes a limiting structure, the limiting structure including a contact member and a pair of limiting members, the contact member being fixed to the assembly box, the pair of limiting members being fixed at intervals to the guide rail, the limiting members being used to abut against the contact member to limit the travel of the assembly box.

10. The steering device for battery cell welding as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The feeding mechanism also includes a guide structure, which assists the assembly box in linear movement relative to the rack.

11. The steering device for battery cell welding as described in any one of claims 3-10, characterized in that, The gripper structure is configured in at least two parts, and the gear and the gripper structure are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence.

12. The steering device for battery cell welding as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The guide rail is hollow inside, and a guide groove is provided on the side of the guide rail facing the assembly box. The driving mechanism includes a nut and a lead screw, both located inside the guide rail, and the nut and the lead screw are threadedly connected. It also includes an adapter, one end of which is connected to the assembly box, and the other end of which is connected to the nut.

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