Battery cell grading device, battery cell grading system and battery cell grading module

Abstract

The utility model relates to the field of battery cell detection, in particular to a battery cell grading device, a battery cell grading system and a battery cell grading module. The battery cell grading device comprises a cross beam, a drag chain and a pick-and-place mechanism, the drag chain moves back and forth along the direction of the cross beam; the pick-and-place mechanism is fixed below the drag chain through a fixing frame; the fixing frame comprises a limiting device used for limiting the drag chain in the direction perpendicular to the cross beam. According to the battery cell grading device, the drag chain is effectively prevented from deviating, the stability and reliability of operation of the battery cell grading device are ensured, and the grading efficiency is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of battery cell testing, and in particular to a battery cell sorting device, a battery cell sorting system, and a battery cell sorting module. Background Technology

[0002] As a component of the power batteries in new energy vehicles, the quality of a single battery cell affects the overall quality of the power battery. Visual inspection of the battery cells before encapsulation is a crucial step in battery manufacturing. A full visual inspection of the cells ensures that their surfaces are free of foreign objects, dirt, dents, and damage before being encapsulated.

[0003] After the battery cells are tested, they need to be classified into numerous grades according to different classification standards, such as qualified and unqualified products, different test pass levels, different test issues, etc.

[0004] Due to production capacity requirements and the large number of gears, the gearing mechanism is prone to instability during high-speed gearing, which can cause problems such as product falling and thus affect gearing efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of this, the purpose of this application is to provide a battery cell sorting device, a battery cell sorting system, and a battery cell sorting module to ensure the stability of battery cell sorting and improve sorting efficiency.

[0006] To address the aforementioned issues, in a first aspect, this application provides a battery cell sorting device, comprising a crossbeam, a cable chain, and a pick-and-place mechanism; the cable chain moves back and forth along the crossbeam; the pick-and-place mechanism is fixed below the cable chain by a fixing frame; the fixing frame includes a limiting device for limiting the cable chain in a direction perpendicular to the crossbeam.

[0007] In the above technical solution, the setting of the limit device effectively prevents the drag chain from deviating, ensures the stability and reliability of the cell sorting device, and improves the sorting efficiency.

[0008] In some embodiments, the crossbeam includes baffles fixed to both sides of the cable chain.

[0009] In the above technical solution, by adding baffles, the cable chain is protected on both sides, effectively preventing deviation or collision during operation.

[0010] In some embodiments, the limiting device includes a guide roller rotatably fixed to the fixing frame, the guide roller abutting against the baffle.

[0011] The above technical solution employs a rolling contact design to reduce friction and wear, and extend the life of the device.

[0012] In some embodiments, the guide rollers include two rollers disposed on the outer edges of the side baffles.

[0013] In the above technical solution, limiting the position at the outer edge of the baffle makes it easier to observe the working status of the guide system and facilitates maintenance.

[0014] In some embodiments, the guide rollers include two rollers disposed on the inner edge of the side baffles.

[0015] The above technical solution provides a guiding function that is closer to the center of the cable chain, thus optimizing stability.

[0016] In some embodiments, the guide rollers include two rollers disposed on the inner and outer edges of one side baffle.

[0017] The above technical solution achieves bidirectional support from both inside and outside, providing stronger limiting capabilities and adapting to complex motion states.

[0018] In some embodiments, the fixing frame includes a fixing plate, the fixing plate having a limiting hole for fixing the guide roller; the limiting hole is perpendicular to the baffle.

[0019] The above technical solution ensures the normal operation of the rollers and extends the life of the device.

[0020] Secondly, this application provides a battery cell sorting system, including several of the above-mentioned battery cell sorting devices and a driving device, wherein the driving device is used to drive the cable chain to move back and forth.

[0021] The above technical solution ensures the stability and reliability of the cell sorting device and improves sorting efficiency.

[0022] Thirdly, this application provides a battery cell sorting module, including a plurality of sorting lines and the aforementioned battery cell sorting system; the plurality of sorting lines are arranged in parallel, and the crossbeam is perpendicular to the sorting lines; the picking and placing mechanism can move between the plurality of sorting lines.

[0023] The above technical solution ensures the stability and reliability of the cell grading module and improves grading efficiency.

[0024] In some embodiments, a drive mechanism is further included, which is used to drive the pick-and-place mechanism to move in a vertical direction.

[0025] The above technical solution improves the flexibility and adaptability of the grading module, meeting more diversified production needs. Attached Figure Description

[0026] Figure 1 This is a partial schematic diagram of a cell sorting device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0027] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a cell sorting module according to an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0028] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0029] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments according to this application. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms "comprising" and / or "including" are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, devices, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0030] Unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement, numerical expressions, and values ​​of the components and steps described in these embodiments do not limit the scope of this application. It should also be understood that, for ease of description, the dimensions of the various parts shown in the drawings are not drawn to actual scale. Techniques, methods, and devices known to those skilled in the art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, such techniques, methods, and devices should be considered part of the specification. In all examples shown and discussed herein, any specific values ​​should be interpreted as merely exemplary and not as limitations. Therefore, other examples of exemplary embodiments may have different values. It should be noted that similar reference numerals and letters in the following drawings denote similar items; therefore, once an item is defined in one drawing, it need not be further discussed in subsequent drawings.

[0031] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the orientation or positional relationship indicated by directional terms such as "front, back, up, down, left, right", "horizontal, vertical, horizontal" and "top, bottom" is usually based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and is only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description. Unless otherwise stated, these directional terms do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on the scope of protection of this application; the directional terms "inner" and "outer" refer to the inner and outer contours relative to the outline of each component itself.

[0032] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as "above," "on top of," "on the upper surface of," "above," etc., are used herein to describe the spatial positional relationship of a device or feature as shown in the figures to other devices or features. It should be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations in use or operation beyond the orientation of the device as described in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures were inverted, a device described as "above" or "on top of" other devices or structures would subsequently be positioned as "below" or "under" other devices or structures. Thus, the exemplary term "above" can include both "above" and "below." The device may also be positioned in other different ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptions used herein will be interpreted accordingly.

[0033] Furthermore, it should be noted that the use of terms such as "first" and "second" to define components is merely for the purpose of distinguishing the corresponding components. Unless otherwise stated, the above terms have no special meaning and therefore cannot be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this application.

[0034] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0035] After cell testing is completed, a large number of cells need to be sorted. Based on different classification standards, the cells are divided into qualified and unqualified products, or further classified according to different pass / fail levels or testing issues. This process is crucial to ensuring product quality, but due to the large number of cells and the complexity of the sorting standards, the sorting organization faces many challenges in practice.

[0036] Especially under high-efficiency production requirements, the grading mechanism is prone to instability during high-speed grading. Due to the large number of gradations, the mechanism is prone to vibration or instability during high-speed movement, which can lead to cell falling off or incorrect grading. This not only affects the accuracy of grading but also reduces overall production efficiency and may increase the complexity of subsequent processing, thus affecting the smoothness of the entire production process.

[0037] To address the current issue of battery cell grading, the following is a summary... Figure 1-2 This application will be described in detail.

[0038] The battery cell sorting device 100 of this application includes a crossbeam 10, a cable chain 20, and a pick-and-place mechanism 30. The cable chain 20 moves back and forth along the crossbeam 10. The pick-and-place mechanism 30 is fixed below the cable chain 20 by a fixing frame 40. The fixing frame 40 includes a limiting device for limiting the cable chain 20 in a direction perpendicular to the crossbeam 10.

[0039] Specifically, the battery cell sorting device 100 of this application provides a movement path for the cable chain 20 through the crossbeam 10. The cable chain 20 moves back and forth along the crossbeam 10, driving the pick-and-place mechanism 30 fixed below the cable chain 20 to move, thereby sorting the battery cells 400 on the pick-and-place mechanism 30. The fixing frame 40 is connected to the cable chain 20 and limits the displacement of the cable chain 20 in the direction perpendicular to the crossbeam 10 through a limiting device to ensure stable operation of the cable chain 20.

[0040] The limiting device can be implemented in various ways. For example, it can be a limiting slider made of a material with a high coefficient of friction, which contacts the side of the cable chain to restrict its lateral movement. It can also be a spring-loaded limiting device, consisting of a spring and a limiting element. The spring provides a certain restoring force, causing the limiting element to contact the cable chain; when the cable chain moves to the set position, the limiting element generates resistance, ensuring it does not deviate from the predetermined track. Alternatively, it can be a mechanical limiting device such as a baffle, or a rolling limiting device such as a guide roller 41. Specific details of these two limiting methods are provided below.

[0041] In the above technical solution, the picking and placing mechanism 30 is able to move precisely along the direction of the crossbeam 10, improving the sorting accuracy. The limiting device prevents the drag chain 20 from deviating, ensuring the stability and reliability of the cell sorting device 100 and improving the sorting efficiency.

[0042] In some embodiments, the crossbeam 10 includes baffles 11. The baffles 11 are fixed to both sides of the cable chain 20. They provide additional mechanical restraint on the cable chain 20, further restricting its range of motion.

[0043] In the above technical solution, by adding baffles 11, the cable chain 20 is protected on both sides, effectively preventing deviation or collision during operation. At the same time, it enhances structural stability and adapts to high-load operating environments.

[0044] In some embodiments, the limiting device includes a guide roller 41, which is rotatably fixed to the mounting frame 40 and abuts against the baffle 11. The lateral movement of the cable chain 20 is limited by the rolling guide.

[0045] The above technical solution employs a rolling contact design to reduce friction and wear, extending the lifespan of the device. Simultaneously, it improves limit accuracy, ensuring smooth operation of the cable chain 20.

[0046] In some embodiments, the guide rollers 41 include two rollers disposed on the outer edges of the side baffles 11. The lateral offset of the cable chain 20 is limited by rolling contact with the outer sides of the baffles 11.

[0047] In the above technical solution, limiting the movement at the outer edge of the baffle 11 makes it easier to observe the working status of the guiding system and facilitates maintenance. The double roller design increases the guiding support points and improves operational stability.

[0048] In some embodiments, the guide rollers 41 include two rollers disposed on the inner edges of the side baffles 11. They achieve guidance and positioning through rolling contact with the inner side of the baffles 11.

[0049] In the above technical solution, the limiting structure is located on the inner edge, which can prevent interference from dust or debris in the external environment and improve operational reliability. At the same time, it provides a guiding function that is closer to the center of the cable chain 20, optimizing stability.

[0050] In some embodiments, the guide rollers 41 include two rollers, which are disposed on the inner and outer edges of one side baffle 11, and further enhance the limiting effect through bidirectional support.

[0051] Preferably, the guide rollers 41 include four rollers, which are respectively disposed on the inner and outer edges of the two side baffles 11.

[0052] The above technical solution achieves bidirectional support from both inside and outside, providing stronger limiting capabilities and adapting to complex motion states.

[0053] In some embodiments, the fixing frame 40 includes a fixing plate 42, which has a limiting hole 421 for fixing the guide roller 41. The limiting hole 421 is perpendicular to the baffle 11.

[0054] Specifically, the guide roller 41 is mounted on the fixed plate 42, and the position of the guide roller 41 is adjusted through the limiting hole 421 to ensure that there is a margin when limiting, reducing the possibility of the guide roller 41 getting stuck. If the roller gets stuck, it may cause friction and wear to the cable chain 20 or the baffle 11.

[0055] The above technical solution ensures the normal operation of the rollers and extends the life of the device.

[0056] In some embodiments, this application provides a battery cell sorting system, including a plurality of the above-described battery cell sorting devices 100 and a drive device 200, wherein the drive device 200 is used to drive the cable chain 20 to move back and forth.

[0057] Specifically, the drive unit 200 can uniformly control the back-and-forth movement of several cable chains 20; or, multiple drive units 200 can be set up, and each drive unit 200 can control the back-and-forth movement of more than one cable chain 20.

[0058] In the above technical solution, the coordinated operation of multiple devices significantly improves the efficiency of cell sorting. Simultaneously, by limiting the offset of the drag chain 20, collisions between adjacent cell sorting devices 100 are effectively prevented, as well as problems such as cells 400 falling or incorrect sorting caused by collisions. Therefore, the stability and reliability of the cell sorting device 100 are ensured, and sorting efficiency is improved.

[0059] In some embodiments, this application provides a cell grading module, such as... Figure 2 As shown. The cell sorting module of this application includes a plurality of sorting lines 300 and the aforementioned cell sorting system. The plurality of sorting lines 300 are arranged in parallel, and the crossbeam 10 is perpendicular to the sorting lines 300. The pick-and-place mechanism 30 can move among the plurality of sorting lines 300.

[0060] Several grading lines 300 respectively accommodate different categories of battery cells 400, such as qualified and unqualified products, or different categories of battery cells 400 according to different inspection pass levels or inspection problems. A battery cell grading module is formed by several parallelly arranged grading lines 300 and a battery cell grading system. A crossbeam 10 is perpendicular to the grading lines 300, and a pick-and-place mechanism 30 can move between the grading lines 300 to achieve battery cell grading across multiple grading lines 300.

[0061] In the above technical solution, the modular structure improves the system's scalability, facilitating the addition of grading lines 300 as needed. Simultaneously, it enables unified management of multiple grading lines 300. Furthermore, by limiting the offset of the drag chain 20, collisions between adjacent cell grading devices 100 are effectively prevented, as well as problems such as cell 400 falling or grading errors caused by collisions. Therefore, the stability and reliability of the cell grading module's operation are ensured, and grading efficiency is improved.

[0062] In some embodiments, a drive mechanism 50 is further included, which drives the pick-and-place mechanism 30 to move in a vertical direction, thereby enhancing the degree of freedom of movement of the pick-and-place mechanism 30.

[0063] The above technical solution increases the vertical movement capability of the loading and unloading mechanism 30, enabling the sorting module to adapt to battery cells 400 of different heights, the loading and unloading of battery cells 400, or other complex working conditions. Simultaneously, it improves the flexibility and adaptability of the sorting module, meeting more diversified production needs.

[0064] The above technical solutions are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. For those skilled in the art, the present invention can have various modifications and variations. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A battery cell sorting device, characterized in that, It includes a crossbeam, a cable chain, and a pick-and-place mechanism; the cable chain moves back and forth along the direction of the crossbeam; the pick-and-place mechanism is fixed below the cable chain by a fixing frame; the fixing frame includes a limiting device for limiting the cable chain in the direction perpendicular to the crossbeam; The crossbeam includes baffles, which are fixed to both sides of the cable chain; The limiting device includes a guide roller, which is rotatably fixed to the fixed frame and abuts against the baffle.

2. The battery cell sorting device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The guide rollers include two rollers, which are located on the outer edge of the two side baffles.

3. The battery cell sorting device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The guide rollers include two rollers, which are located on the inner edge of the two side baffles.

4. The battery cell sorting device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The guide rollers include two rollers, which are located on the inner and outer edges of one side baffle.

5. A cell sorting device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The fixing frame includes a fixing plate, and the fixing plate has a limiting hole for fixing the guide roller; the limiting hole is perpendicular to the baffle.

6. A battery cell grading system, characterized in that, It includes several cell sorting devices and driving devices as described in any one of claims 1-5, wherein the driving device is used to drive the cable chain to move back and forth.

7. A cell grading module, characterized in that, It includes several grading lines and a cell grading system as described in claim 6; the several grading lines are arranged in parallel, and the crossbeam is perpendicular to the grading lines; the picking and placing mechanism can move between the several grading lines.

8. The cell grading module according to claim 7, characterized in that, It also includes a drive mechanism for driving the pick-and-place mechanism to move in a vertical direction.

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