Battery piece arranging mechanism and conveying device

Abstract

The utility model relates to the technical field of photovoltaic module production equipment, in particular to a battery piece arranging mechanism and a conveying device. The battery piece arranging mechanism is arranged on a conveying path of a conveying line used for conveying battery pieces and comprises a driving assembly and a picking assembly. The picking assembly is provided with a conveying surface of the conveying line and a picking space for a battery piece to pass through on the conveying surface, and one battery piece can be carried in the picking space; the driving assembly is used for driving the picking assembly to move in a reciprocating mode in the vertical direction so that the battery pieces entering the picking space can be lifted up from the conveying face or put back to the conveying face, and the driving assembly is further used for driving the picking assembly to move in the length direction of the conveying line so that the distance between the battery pieces in the picking space and the previous battery piece can be adjusted. Due to the fact that the conveying face and the battery pieces located on the conveying face can pass through the picking space, after the picking assembly puts the battery pieces back to the face, the driving assembly drives the picking assembly to reset, the conveying line can operate normally in the process, and therefore the production efficiency is higher.

Description

Technical Field

[0003]

[0001] This application relates to the technical field of photovoltaic module production equipment, and particularly to a cell alignment mechanism and a conveying device. Background Art

[0002] The solar cell string welding equipment is used to connect cells into a string through welding tapes and is one of the main production equipment for photovoltaic modules. The string welding equipment generally has a conveying device, which is used to convey the cells to be string-welded continuously conveyed by the upstream device to a preset position. After the cells to be string-welded continuously conveyed by the upstream device enter the feeding end of the conveying device, the distances between adjacent cells are different, and it is necessary to adjust the distances between adjacent cells to facilitate subsequent processes.

[0003] In the prior art, in order to adjust the distance between adjacent cells, generally a regularizing wheel and a driving mechanism matching the regularizing wheel are provided. When in use, first stop the conveying of the conveying device, then the driving mechanism first drives the regularizing wheel to extend into the gap between adjacent cells, and then drives the regularizing wheel to move towards the cell to be adjusted until it contacts the side of the cell, and finally adjusts the position of the cell by physical pushing to realize the adjustment of the distance between adjacent cells.

[0004] However, when the above regularizing wheel is in use, the conveying device can continue to convey cells only after the regularizing wheel is completely reset, which affects the production rhythm. Moreover, due to the instability of the size and position of the gap between adjacent cells, there is a risk that the regularizing wheel will damage the cells when the driving mechanism drives the regularizing wheel to extend into the gap between adjacent cells. Summary of the Utility Model

[0005] (1) The problem to be solved by this application is that the existing adjustment method for adjusting the distance between cells on the conveying device has the problems of low efficiency and easy damage to cells.

[0006] (2) Technical Solution<00ffff15><00ffff16>To solve the above technical problems, an embodiment of one aspect of this application provides a cell alignment mechanism, which is arranged on the conveying path of a conveying line, and the conveying line is used to convey cells; <00ffff17><00ffff18>The cell alignment mechanism includes: a driving component and a picking component; <00ffff19><00ffff20>A picking space for the conveying surface of the conveying line and the cells located on the conveying surface to pass through is provided on the picking component, and one cell can be carried in the picking space; <00ffff21><00ffff22>The drive component is connected to the pickup component in a transmission manner. The drive component is used to drive the pickup component to reciprocate in the vertical direction so as to lift or put back the (i+1)th battery cell that has entered the pickup space from the conveyor surface of the conveyor line.

[0011] The driving component is also used to drive the picking component to move along the length of the conveyor line to adjust the spacing between the (i+1)th cell in the picking space and the ith cell on the conveyor line, where i≥1.

[0012] Since the conveying surface of the conveyor line and the solar cells located on the conveying surface can pass through the pickup space, the pickup component can always be kept close to the solar cells. When the (i+1)th solar cell to be aligned enters the pickup space, the (i+1)th solar cell can be quickly lifted and moved horizontally. After the drive component drives the pickup component to put the (i+1)th solar cell back onto the conveying surface, the conveyor line can operate normally during the process of the drive component driving the pickup component to move and reset. The pickup component will not affect the conveying operation of the conveyor line. Compared with the existing technology, the conveying device has higher conveying efficiency and there is no risk of damaging the solar cells.

[0013] Furthermore, on the conveyor line, both ends of the solar cell extend beyond the conveyor surface of the conveyor line;

[0014] The pickup assembly includes a top plate and a pair of support members mounted opposite each other at both ends of the top plate. The top plate is positioned above the conveying surface of the conveyor line and is connected to the drive assembly. The two support members are located on both sides of the conveyor line. Each support member has a horizontal bearing section extending to below the end of the battery cell. The horizontal bearing section and the top plate enclose a pickup space. The two horizontal bearing sections are used to support the battery cell.

[0015] By supporting both ends of the battery cell with two support members, the stability of the drive assembly when moving the battery cell can be ensured, which provides a certain degree of protection for the battery cell. It has the characteristics of simple structure and strong stability.

[0016] Furthermore, the horizontal bearing section is provided with several adsorption holes or suction cups that are connected to the vacuum source. The adsorption holes or suction cups are used to adsorb the ends of the battery cells.

[0017] The suction holes or suction cups can adhere to the ends of the battery cells, thereby improving the stability of the battery cells during movement, ensuring the alignment accuracy, and preventing the battery cells from falling off and being damaged, as well as avoiding affecting the production cycle.

[0018] Furthermore, the height of the pickup space is 8mm-20mm.

[0019] On the one hand, it meets the requirements of the picking component for lifting stroke, and on the other hand, it makes the picking component and the battery cell close enough, thereby making the stroke of the drive component shorter, improving the leveling efficiency, and meeting the needs of high-speed production.

[0020] Another embodiment of this application also provides a conveying device, which includes a conveying line and a first straightening mechanism, wherein the first straightening mechanism is the aforementioned battery cell straightening mechanism.

[0021] It offers higher delivery efficiency and eliminates the risk of damaging the battery cells.

[0022] Furthermore, the conveying device also includes a detection mechanism and a controller;

[0023] Both the testing mechanism and the first conditioning mechanism are electrically connected to the controller;

[0024] The testing mechanism is set up at the testing station located in front of the first straightening mechanism. The testing mechanism is used to detect the position information of the (i+1)th battery cell conveyed to the testing station on the conveyor line.

[0025] The controller controls the movement of the first straightening mechanism based on the detection information of the detection mechanism, so as to adjust the distance between the (i+1)th battery cell delivered to the pickup space and the ith battery cell on the conveyor line, where i≥1.

[0026] By combining the detection mechanism with the controller, the first aligning mechanism can be automated, which can improve production efficiency, save production costs, and achieve higher accuracy in adjusting the spacing between two adjacent battery cells, thus facilitating subsequent processes.

[0027] Furthermore, the conveying device also includes a defective piece pickup unit and an NG (no good) box, which are located close to the inspection station. The defective piece pickup unit is electrically connected to the controller.

[0028] The testing agency also uses it to detect appearance defects in the (i+1)th solar cell delivered to the testing station;

[0029] Based on the detection information from the detection agency, the controller controls the defective cell picking unit to pick up the detected defective cells from the conveyor line and place them into the NG material box.

[0030] The inspection agency integrates the location information and appearance defects of the solar cells, which can save costs and simplify the structure and layout of the conveyor system. By arranging defective cell pick-up units and NG (no good) bins in conjunction with the inspection agency, defective cells on the conveyor line can be removed, avoiding impact on subsequent production processes.

[0031] Furthermore, the conveying device also includes a second regulating mechanism, a third regulating mechanism, and a fourth regulating mechanism;

[0032] Along the conveyor path, following the first sizing mechanism, there are sequentially arranged coarse sizing and fine sizing stations. The second sizing mechanism is located at the coarse sizing station, and the third and fourth sizing mechanisms are located at the fine sizing station.

[0033] The second and third straightening mechanisms are respectively located on both sides of the conveyor line. The second straightening mechanism is configured to move a predetermined distance along the second direction to push the first side of the solar cell located at the coarse straightening station. The third straightening mechanism is configured to move a predetermined distance along the second direction to push the second side of the solar cell located at the fine straightening station. The second side is opposite to the first side. The second direction is perpendicular to the conveying direction of the conveyor line.

[0034] The fourth straightening mechanism is configured to move a predetermined distance in the opposite direction to the conveying direction of the conveyor line to push the third side of the solar cell located at the fine straightening station.

[0035] After the first sizing mechanism performs coarse sizing of the solar cells in the conveying direction, the second, third, and fourth sizing mechanisms can work together to perform coarse and fine sizing of the solar cells perpendicular to the conveying direction, as well as fine sizing in the conveying direction, to facilitate subsequent processes, such as directly picking up the sized solar cells for stringing and improving production efficiency.

[0036] Furthermore, both the second and third aligning mechanisms include a first translation drive unit and at least two first aligning wheels. Each first aligning wheel is arranged side by side along the conveying direction of the conveyor line and is installed together at the drive end of the first translation drive unit. The first translation drive unit is used to drive each first aligning wheel to translate along the second direction.

[0037] A simple second and third aligning mechanism is provided, which can achieve smooth alignment of the battery cell by having at least two first aligning wheels jointly push the side of the battery cell.

[0038] Furthermore, the fourth straightening mechanism includes a second translation drive unit and at least two second straightening wheels. Each of the second straightening wheels is arranged side by side along a second direction and is installed together at the drive end of the second translation drive unit. The second translation drive unit is used to drive each of the second straightening wheels to translate in a direction opposite to the conveying direction of the conveyor line.

[0039] A simple fourth alignment mechanism is provided, which can achieve smooth alignment of the battery cell by pushing the side of the battery cell together with at least two second alignment wheels. Attached Figure Description

[0040] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the specific embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0041] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the battery cell straightening mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0042] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the conveying device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0043] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the defective cell pickup unit, NG material box, and cell straightening mechanism on the conveyor line.

[0044] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the second, third, and fourth aligning mechanisms on the conveyor line.

[0045] Icons: 1-Drive component; 11-First drive module; 111-First power source; 112-Synchronous belt assembly; 113-Fixed frame; 12-Second drive module; 122-Eccentric wheel assembly; 123-Lifting frame; 131-Transverse slide rail; 132-Transverse slider; 133-Lifting slide rail; 134-Lifting slider; 14-Support;

[0046] 2-Pickup component; 21-Pickup space; 22-Top plate; 23-Support component; 231-Horizontal bearing section; 232-Vertical connection section; 24-Adsorption strip; 241-Adsorption hole;

[0047] 3-Conveyor line; 31-Conveyor surface;

[0048] 4-Battery cell; 41-First side; 42-Second side; 43-Third side;

[0049] 5- Testing institutions;

[0050] 61-Defective piece pickup unit; 62-NG (Not Good) material box;

[0051] 71-Second aligning mechanism; 711-First translation drive unit; 712-First aligning wheel; 72-Third aligning mechanism; 73-Fourth aligning mechanism; 732-Second aligning wheel. Detailed Implementation

[0052] 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, and not all embodiments. The components of the embodiments of this application described and shown in the accompanying drawings can generally be arranged and designed in various different configurations.

[0053] Therefore, the following detailed description of the embodiments of this application provided in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed application, but merely to illustrate selected embodiments of the application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0054] It should be noted that similar labels and letters in the following figures indicate similar items. Therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be further defined and explained in subsequent figures.

[0055] In the description of this application, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship commonly used when the product of this application is in use. They are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and 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 this application. In addition, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc., are only used to distinguish descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0056] Furthermore, terms such as "horizontal," "vertical," and "sag" do not imply that components must be absolutely horizontal or suspended, but rather that they can be slightly tilted. For example, "horizontal" simply means that its direction is more horizontal relative to "vertical," and does not mean that the structure must be completely horizontal, but can be slightly tilted.

[0057] In the description of this application, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "set up," "install," "connect," and "link" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; 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; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0058] The following detailed description of some embodiments of this application is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Unless otherwise specified, the following embodiments and features can be combined with each other.

[0059] The cell alignment mechanism provided in this application embodiment, in conjunction with reference to [reference] Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the cell straightening mechanism is set on the conveying path of the conveyor line 3. The conveyor line 3 is used to convey the cells 4. The conveyor line 3 has a conveying surface 31, an input end and an output end. Several cells 4 conveyed by the upstream equipment enter the conveying surface 31 of the conveyor line 3 sequentially from the input end of the conveyor line 3. After being conveyed by the conveyor line 3, they are output from the output end of the conveyor line 3. The cell straightening mechanism is used to adjust the spacing between two adjacent cells 4 during the process of conveying the cells 4 by the conveyor line 3, so that the spacing between the adjusted cell 4 and the previous cell 4 meets the preset requirements.

[0060] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the battery cell alignment mechanism provided in this embodiment includes a drive assembly 1 and a pickup assembly 2. The pickup assembly 2 is provided with a pickup space 21 that allows the conveying surface 31 of the conveyor line 3 and the battery cell 4 located on the conveying surface 31 to pass through. The pickup assembly 2 can hold one battery cell 4. The drive assembly 1 is driven to move the pickup assembly 2 back and forth in the vertical direction to lift or put the (i+1)th battery cell 4 that has entered the pickup space 21 from the conveying surface 31 of the conveyor line 3. The drive assembly 1 is also used to move the pickup assembly 2 along the length direction of the conveyor line 3 to adjust the distance between the (i+1)th battery cell 4 located in the pickup space 21 and the i-th battery cell 4 on the conveyor line 3, where i ≥ 1.

[0061] In use, when the (i+1)th battery cell 4 on the conveying surface 31 of the conveying line 3 enters the pickup space 21 of the pickup component 2, the conveying line 3 stops conveying. The driving component 1 first drives the pickup component 2 to move vertically, so that the pickup component 2 approaches the (i+1)th battery cell 4 and lifts the (i+1)th battery cell 4 from the conveying surface 31, so that the (i+1)th battery cell 4 is separated from the conveying surface 31. Then, according to the distance between the (i+1)th battery cell 4 and the ith battery cell 4, the driving component 1 drives the pickup component 2 to move along the length of the conveying line 3, thereby adjusting the position of the (i+1)th battery cell 4. When the distance between the (i+1)th battery cell 4 and the ith battery cell 4 meets the preset requirements, the driving component 1... Component 1 drives the pickup component 2 to move vertically, so that the pickup component 2 approaches the conveying surface 31 and puts the battery cell 4 in the pickup space 21 back onto the conveying surface 31. After the drive component 1 and the pickup component 2 cooperate to put the (i+1)th battery cell 4 in the pickup space 21 back onto the conveying surface 31 of the conveying line 3, the spacing between the (i+1)th battery cell 4 and the ith battery cell 4 is adjusted. Then, the drive component 1 drives the pickup component 2 to continue to descend vertically to the designated position, and drives the pickup component 2 to move along the length of the conveying line 3, so that the pickup component 2 is reset and ready for the next adjustment. While the drive component 1 drives the pickup component 2 to reset, the conveying line 3 continues to transport the battery cell 4. Since the conveying surface 31 of the conveying line 3 and the battery cell 4 located on the conveying surface 31 can pass through the pickup space 21, the conveying operation of the conveying line 3 will not be affected during the process of the drive component 1 driving the pickup component 2 to reset. Compared with the prior art implementation where the conveying line 3 can only continue to run after the straightening wheel is reset, the conveying device using the battery cell straightening mechanism of this application has higher conveying efficiency and there is no risk of damaging the battery cell 4.

[0062] Optional, such as Figures 1 to 3 As shown, during the conveying of the battery cell 4, the two ends of the battery cell 4 perpendicular to the conveying direction extend from the conveying surface 31 of the conveying line 3. The pickup assembly 2 includes a top plate 22 and a pair of support members 23 oppositely mounted at both ends of the top plate 22. The two support members 23 are located on both sides of the conveying line 3. Each support member 23 has a horizontal bearing section 231 extending to the lower end of the battery cell 4. The horizontal bearing sections 231 on the two support members 23 extend towards each other and are used to support the battery cell 4. The horizontal bearing sections 231 and the top plate 22 enclose a pickup space 21. The top plate 22 is located above the conveying surface 31 of the conveying line 3 and is connected to the drive assembly 1. The drive assembly 1 drives the top plate 22 to move, which in turn drives the two support members 23 located on the top plate 22 to move.

[0063] Since the top plate 22 is located above the conveying surface 31 of the conveyor line 3, the drive assembly 1 can be installed above the top plate 22, thus providing sufficient installation space for the arrangement of the drive assembly 1, avoiding interference between the drive assembly 1 and the conveyor line 3, and also facilitating the replacement and maintenance of the conveyor belt below the top plate 22.

[0064] In this embodiment, the battery cell straightening mechanism has a horizontal support section 231 that is always located below the end of the battery cell 4. When the battery cell 4 enters the pickup space 21 between the horizontal support section 231 and the top plate 22, the drive assembly 1 drives the pickup assembly 2 to move upward so that the two horizontal support sections 231 can lift the battery cell 4. When the distance between the lifted battery cell 4 and the previous battery cell 4 meets the preset requirements, the drive assembly 1 drives the pickup assembly 2 to move downward so that the two horizontal support sections 231 can place the battery cell 4 back onto the conveying surface 31 and separate the horizontal support sections 231 from the battery cell 4. By supporting both ends of the battery cell 4 with two support members 23, the stability of the drive assembly 1 when moving the battery cell 4 can be ensured, providing a certain degree of protection for the battery cell 4. It has the characteristics of simple structure and strong stability. When the conveyor line 3 is running normally, the conveying surface 31 of the conveyor line 3 and the battery cells 4 on the conveying surface 31 can pass through the pickup space 21 formed between the top plate 22 and the two horizontal bearing sections 231, which can prevent the drive component 1 from affecting the normal operation of the conveyor line 3 when it drives the pickup component 2 to reset.

[0065] Optionally, the two support members 23 can also be slidably disposed at both ends of the top plate 22. A driving member is provided on the top plate 22 to drive the two support members 23 to move towards or away from each other, so that the horizontal bearing section 231 can extend into or leave the bottom of the end of the battery cell 4. In this way, when the conveyor line 3 is running, the picking component 2 moves away from the conveyor line 3, and when the driving component 1 drives the picking component 2 to reset, it will not affect the normal operation of the conveyor line 3.

[0066] Optional, such as Figure 1 As shown, the support member 23 also includes a vertical connecting section 232. One end of the vertical connecting section 232 is provided with the aforementioned horizontal bearing section 231, and the other end is used to connect to the end of the top plate 22, so that the horizontal bearing section 231 and the top plate 22 can form a pickup space 21, allowing the conveying surface 31 and the battery cells 4 on the conveying surface 31 to pass through. Moreover, the vertical connecting section 232 and the horizontal bearing section 231 are arranged perpendicularly, that is, the support member 23 in this embodiment has an "L" shaped structure.

[0067] Optionally, a structure such as bolts can be used to directly connect the horizontal bearing section 231 and the top plate 22, which can also achieve the purpose of spacing between the horizontal bearing section 231 and the top plate 22 in this embodiment.

[0068] like Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the horizontal support section 231 has a plate-like structure, providing a large contact surface with the battery cell 4 and ensuring good stability. To further improve the stability of the horizontal support section 231 when supporting the battery cell 4, optionally, the horizontal support section 231 may also be equipped with several suction holes 241 or suction cups connected to a vacuum source. When the horizontal support section 231 supports the end of the battery cell 4, the vacuum source can generate negative pressure at the suction holes 241 or suction cups to adsorb the end of the battery cell 4, thereby improving the stability of the battery cell 4 during movement, ensuring alignment accuracy, preventing the battery cell 4 from falling off and causing damage, and avoiding disruption to the production cycle.

[0069] Optionally, the horizontal bearing section 231 is provided with a long strip of adsorption strip 24. The extension direction of the adsorption strip 24 is the same as the conveying direction. Along the extension direction of the adsorption strip 24, a number of adsorption holes 241 are provided on the adsorption strip 24.

[0070] Optionally, the height of the pickup space 21 can be 8mm-20mm, such as 8mm, 10mm, 12mm, 14mm, 16mm, 18mm, or 20mm. This height setting satisfies the lifting stroke requirements of the pickup component 2 and also ensures a sufficiently close distance between the pickup component 2 and the battery cell 4, thereby shortening the stroke of the drive component 1, improving alignment efficiency, and meeting the demands of high-speed production. It should be noted that the height of the pickup space 21 refers to the distance between the horizontal support section 231 and the top plate 22.

[0071] like Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, optionally, the drive assembly 1 includes a first drive module 11 and a second drive module 12 connected to each other. The first drive module 11 is used to drive the pickup assembly 2 to move along the length of the conveyor line 3, and the second drive module 12 is used to drive the pickup assembly 2 to move vertically. During assembly, the pickup assembly 2 can be connected to the first drive module 11 and the second drive module 12 can be connected to the first drive module 11, or the pickup assembly 2 can be connected to the second drive module 12 and the second drive module 12 can be connected to the first drive module 11. In this embodiment, the pickup assembly 2 is connected to the first drive module 11 and the second drive module 12 is connected to the first drive module 11. This assembly method has better stability and avoids the battery cell 4 from falling off due to vibration during movement.

[0072] Optional, such as Figure 1As shown, the first drive module 11 includes a first power source 111, a synchronous belt assembly 112, and a fixed frame 113. The fixed frame 113 is connected to the second drive module 12, and the second drive module 12 drives the fixed frame 113 to move vertically. The top plate 22 is provided with a transverse slide rail 131, and the fixed frame 113 is provided with a transverse slider 132 that slides with the transverse slide rail 131. The top plate 22 is slidably mounted on the fixed frame 113 through the transverse slide rail 131 and the transverse slider 132. The first power source 111 and the synchronous belt assembly 112 are both fixed on the fixed frame 113. The top plate 22 is connected to the synchronous belt assembly 112. With the cooperation of the first power source 111 and the synchronous belt assembly 112, the top plate 22 is driven to move laterally, that is, to move along the length of the conveyor line 3. The synchronous belt assembly 112 includes a driving pulley, a driven pulley, and a synchronous belt. The first power source 111 is a first motor. The driving pulley is mounted on the output shaft of the first motor. The driven pulley is rotatably mounted on the fixed frame 113 via a wheel frame. The synchronous belt is sleeved on the driving pulley and the driven pulley. The top plate 22 is connected to the synchronous belt. In use, the first motor drives the driving pulley to rotate. The synchronous belt moves with the rotation of the driving pulley. The top plate 22 moves synchronously with the synchronous belt, so that the top plate 22 can move along the length of the conveyor line 3.

[0073] Optional, such as Figure 1 As shown, the second drive module 12 includes a second power source, an eccentric wheel assembly 122, and a lifting frame 123. The fixed frame 113 of the first drive module 11 is fixedly connected to the lifting frame 123. The second power source and the eccentric wheel assembly 122 are mounted on a support 14 located beside the conveyor line 3. The lifting frame 123 is connected to the eccentric wheel assembly 122. The lifting frame 123 is equipped with a lifting slider 134, and the support 14 is equipped with a lifting slide rail 133 that cooperates with the lifting slider 134. The lifting frame 123 is slidably mounted on the support 14 through the lifting slider 134 and the lifting slide rail 133. With the cooperation of the second power source and the eccentric wheel assembly 122, the lifting frame 123 can reciprocate in the vertical direction. The eccentric wheel assembly 122 includes an eccentric wheel, the second power source is a second motor, the eccentric wheel is eccentrically mounted on the output shaft of the second motor, the lifting frame 123 is provided with a waist-shaped hole corresponding to the eccentric wheel, the eccentric wheel is located in the waist-shaped hole, the second motor drives the eccentric wheel to rotate, thereby driving the lifting frame 123 to reciprocate in the vertical direction.

[0074] Of course, in other embodiments, the structure of the drive component 1 can also be a robotic arm, or a combination of any two linear actuators, such as two vertically arranged linear modules. All of the above structures can achieve the purpose of driving the pickup component 2 to move in this embodiment.

[0075] Based on the same concept, this application also provides a conveying device, see reference. Figure 2As shown, the conveying device includes a conveyor line 3 and a first straightening mechanism, which is the cell straightening mechanism in any of the above embodiments. By using the aforementioned cell straightening mechanism as the first straightening mechanism, the conveying device achieves higher conveying efficiency and eliminates the risk of damaging the cell 4.

[0076] Optional, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the conveying device also includes a detection mechanism 5 and a controller. Both the detection mechanism 5 and the first straightening mechanism are electrically connected to the controller. A detection station is located before the first straightening mechanism, and the detection mechanism 5 is positioned at this station. When the (i+1)th battery cell 4 on the conveyor line 3 moves to the detection station, the detection mechanism 5 detects the position information of this battery cell 4 and feeds this position information back to the controller. Based on the position information of the battery cell 4 fed back by the detection mechanism 5, the controller controls the first straightening mechanism to move, thereby adjusting the distance between the (i+1)th battery cell 4 conveyed into the pickup space 21 and the ith battery cell 4 on the conveyor line 3, where i ≥ 1. The adjustment method of the first straightening mechanism has been mentioned above and will not be repeated here. Through the cooperation of the detection mechanism 5 and the controller, the first straightening mechanism can operate automatically, improving production efficiency, saving production costs, and achieving higher accuracy in adjusting the distance between adjacent battery cells 4, which is beneficial for subsequent processes.

[0077] In this embodiment, the controller can be a central processing unit (CPU), a network processor (NP), or a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, etc.

[0078] Optional, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the conveying device also includes a defective piece picking unit 61 for picking up defective pieces and an NG (no good / not good, referring to products or parts that do not meet quality standards, have defects, or fail inspection) box 62 for receiving defective pieces; the defective piece picking unit 61 and the NG box 62 are set close to the inspection station, and the defective piece picking unit 61 is electrically connected to the controller. In addition to detecting the position information of the battery cell 4, the inspection mechanism 5 is also used to detect the appearance defects of the battery cell 4. After the (i+1)th battery cell 4 enters the inspection station, the inspection mechanism 5 runs, detecting the position information and appearance defects of the battery cell 4. When the appearance of the battery cell 4 has defects, it is defined as a defective piece. The inspection mechanism 5 feeds back the appearance defect information of the battery cell 4 located at the inspection station to the controller. The controller controls the defective piece picking unit 61 to move based on the detection information of the inspection mechanism 5. That is, when the inspection mechanism 5 detects that the appearance of the battery cell 4 has defects and the battery cell 4 is a defective piece, the controller controls the defective piece picking unit 61 to pick up the defective piece and place it in the NG box 62.

[0079] Optionally, in this embodiment, the NG material box 62 is a square box with an open top, sufficient to hold defective pieces. The defective piece picking unit 61 can be a combination of a robotic arm and a suction cup, or a combination of several sequentially connected linear modules and suction cups, as long as it can pick up defective pieces on the conveyor line 3. The detection mechanism 5 can be a vision inspection system, including a light source, camera, and image processor, or it can use a laser sensor.

[0080] In this embodiment, the inspection mechanism 5 integrates the location information and appearance defects of the battery cell 4, which can save costs, simplify the structure of the conveying device, and facilitate the layout of the conveying device. By arranging the defective cell pickup unit 61 and the NG material box 62 in cooperation with the inspection mechanism 5, defective cells on the conveying line 3 can be removed, avoiding affecting subsequent production processes.

[0081] Optional, such as Figure 2 and Figure 4As shown, the conveying device also includes a second straightening mechanism 71, a third straightening mechanism 72, and a fourth straightening mechanism 73. On the conveying path of the conveyor line 3, a coarse straightening station and a fine straightening station are sequentially arranged after the first straightening mechanism. The second straightening mechanism 71 is located at the coarse straightening station, and the third and fourth straightening mechanisms 72 and 73 are located at the fine straightening station. The second, third, and fourth straightening mechanisms 71, 72, and 73 are used to adjust the horizontal position of the battery cell 4 to facilitate subsequent processes and improve production efficiency. The battery cell 4 is square and has a first side 41, a second side 42, a third side 43, and a fourth side. The first and second sides 41 and 42 are arranged opposite each other, and the third and fourth sides 43 are arranged opposite each other. The first and second sides 41 and 42 are located at the two ends of the battery cell 4 extending from the conveying surface 31, respectively. Along the conveying direction of the battery cell 4, the other two sides of the battery cell 4 are the fourth side and the third side 43. The second straightening mechanism 71 and the third straightening mechanism 72 are respectively disposed on both sides of the conveyor line 3, with the second straightening mechanism 71 located on one side of the first side 41 of the battery cell 4 and the third straightening mechanism 72 located on one side of the second side 42 of the battery cell 4. In use, the second straightening mechanism 71 can move a predetermined distance along a second direction to push the first side 41 of the battery cell 4 located at the coarse straightening station; the third straightening mechanism 72 can move a predetermined distance along the second direction to push the second side 42 of the battery cell 4 located at the fine straightening station, wherein the second direction is perpendicular to the conveying direction of the conveyor line 3; the fourth straightening mechanism 73 can move a predetermined distance in the opposite direction to the conveying direction of the conveyor line 3 to push the third side 43 of the battery cell 4 located at the fine straightening station. Through the cooperation of the second straightening mechanism 71, the third straightening mechanism 72, and the fourth straightening mechanism 73, the position of the battery cell 4 in the conveying direction and perpendicular to the conveying direction can be adjusted, precisely straightening the battery cell 4 to the designated position.

[0082] Optional, such as Figure 4 As shown, the second straightening mechanism 71 and the third straightening mechanism 72 mentioned above both include a first translation drive unit 711 and at least two first straightening wheels 712. Each first straightening wheel 712 is arranged side by side along the conveying direction of the conveyor line 3 and is installed at the drive end of the first translation drive unit 711. In use, the first translation drive unit 711 drives each first straightening wheel 712 to translate along the second direction.

[0083] Optionally, the first translation drive unit 711 can be a linear module, a cylinder or a hydraulic cylinder, etc. Each first alignment wheel 712 can be rotatably mounted on the drive end of the first translation drive unit 711. The outer surface of the first alignment wheel 712 is covered with a flexible layer to avoid hard contact with the side of the battery cell 4 and damage to the battery cell 4.

[0084] Optional, such as Figure 4As shown, the fourth straightening mechanism 73 includes a second translation drive unit and at least two second straightening wheels 732. Each second straightening wheel 732 is arranged side by side along the second direction and is installed at the drive end of the second translation drive unit. In use, the second translation drive unit drives each second straightening wheel 732 to translate in the opposite direction to the conveying direction of the conveyor line 3.

[0085] Optionally, the second translation drive unit can be a linear module, a cylinder or a hydraulic cylinder, etc. Each second alignment wheel 732 can be rotatably mounted on the drive end of the second translation drive unit. The outer surface of the second alignment wheel 732 is covered with a flexible layer to avoid hard contact with the side of the battery cell 4 and damage to the battery cell 4.

[0086] The optional working process of the conveying device provided in this application embodiment is as follows: Taking the processing of the (i+1)th battery cell 4 as an example, during use, the battery cell 4 conveyed by the upstream equipment enters the conveying surface 31 of the conveying line 3 sequentially from the input end of the conveying line 3. The (i+1)th battery cell 4 first enters the inspection station during the conveying process. The inspection mechanism 5 adopts a vision inspection system. The camera and the light source arranged above and below the conveying surface 31 cooperate to obtain the image information of the (i+1)th battery cell 4, and feed the image information of the (i+1)th battery cell 4 back to the image processor, thereby obtaining the position information of the (i+1)th battery cell 4 and determining whether the battery cell 4 is a defective cell. The image processor feeds the above information back to the controller. When the (i+1)th battery cell 4 is a defective cell, the controller controls the defective cell picking unit 61 to pick up the defective cell into the NG box 62 based on the detection information of the inspection mechanism 5. If the (i+1)th battery cell 4 does not have an appearance defect, the (i+1)th battery cell 4 enters the picking space 21 of the picking component 2 under the conveying of the conveying line 3. After the (i+1)th battery cell 4 enters the pickup space 21, the controller first stops the conveyor line 3. Simultaneously, under the controller's control, the second power source, in conjunction with the eccentric wheel assembly 122, drives the first drive module 11 and the pickup assembly 2 upwards. This allows the horizontal support sections 231 of the two support members 23 to respectively lift both ends of the (i+1)th battery cell 4. At the same time, a vacuum source creates negative pressure at the adsorption hole 241 to adsorb the (i+1)th battery cell 4 on the horizontal support section 231. After the (i+1)th battery cell 4 is lifted, the first power source 111, in conjunction with the synchronous belt assembly 112, drives the pickup assembly 2 and the components propelled by the pickup assembly... The (i+1)th battery cell 4, lifted by component 2, moves along the length of the conveyor line 3 to adjust the spacing between the (i+1)th battery cell 4 and the ith battery cell 4, i.e., the previous battery cell 4. Once the spacing between the (i+1)th battery cell 4 and the ith battery cell 4 meets the requirements, the second power source cooperates with the eccentric wheel assembly 122 to drive the first drive module 11, the pickup assembly 2, and the (i+1)th battery cell 4 lifted by the pickup assembly 2 downwards to place the (i+1)th battery cell 4 back onto the conveyor surface 31. Simultaneously, the horizontal bearing section 231 separates from the (i+1)th battery cell 4, and the vacuum source stops at the adsorption hole 241 to form a negative pressure. After the (i+1)th battery cell 4 is placed back onto the conveyor surface 31, the controller controls the conveyor line 3 to run, and the first drive module 11 drives the pickup assembly 2 to move along the length of the conveyor line 3 to reset the pickup assembly 2.Conveyor line 3 continues to operate, and the (i+1)th battery cell 4 is conveyed to the coarse straightening station. In the coarse straightening station, the first translation drive unit 711 of the second straightening mechanism 71 drives the two first straightening wheels 712 to move along the second direction to push the first side 41 of the (i+1)th battery cell 4 and perform coarse straightening on the position of the (i+1)th battery cell 4 in the second direction. After the coarse straightening is completed, the (i+1)th battery cell 4 enters the fine straightening station. In the fine straightening station, the first translation drive unit 711 of the third straightening mechanism 72 first drives the two first straightening wheels 712 to move along the second direction to push the second side 42 of the (i+1)th battery cell 4. Then, the second translation drive unit of the fourth straightening mechanism 73 drives the two second straightening wheels 732 to translate in the opposite direction to the conveying direction of conveyor line 3 to push the third side 43 of the battery cell 4. At this point, the position adjustment of the (i+1)th battery cell 4 is completed. The external battery cell transport mechanism can directly pick up the properly oriented battery cell 4 from the fine-forming station and transport the battery cell 4 to the subsequent mechanism to perform the battery cell 4 stringing action.

[0087] Optionally, the conveying device provided in this application embodiment may include two conveyor lines 3, thereby improving production efficiency. The two conveyor lines 3 are arranged side by side, and each conveyor line 3 is equipped with a first straightening mechanism, a second straightening mechanism 71, a third straightening mechanism 72, a fourth straightening mechanism 73, a detection mechanism 5, a defective piece pickup unit 61, and an NG material box 62. To save costs and simplify the structure, the first straightening mechanisms of the two conveyor lines 3 may share a support 14, which is arranged between the two conveyor lines 3. Of course, the second straightening mechanism 71, the third straightening mechanism 72, the fourth straightening mechanism 73, the detection mechanism 5, and the defective piece pickup unit 61 of the two conveyor lines 3 may also share the same support frame arranged between the two conveyor lines 3.

[0088] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A battery cell straightening mechanism, disposed on the conveying path of a conveyor line used for conveying battery cells; Its features are, The cell alignment mechanism includes: a driving component and a pickup component; The picking component is provided with a conveying surface for the conveyor line and a picking space for the battery cell located on the conveying surface to pass through, and the picking space can hold one battery cell. The driving component is connected to the picking component in a transmission manner. The driving component is used to drive the picking component to reciprocate in the vertical direction so as to lift or put back the (i+1)th battery cell that has entered the picking space from the conveying surface of the conveying line. The driving component is also used to drive the picking component to move along the length direction of the conveyor line, so as to adjust the distance between the (i+1)th battery cell located in the picking space and the i-th battery cell on the conveyor line, where i≥1.

2. The cell alignment mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, On the conveyor line, both ends of the battery cell extend out of the conveyor surface of the conveyor line; The pickup assembly includes a top plate and a pair of support members mounted opposite each other at both ends of the top plate. The top plate is disposed above the conveying surface of the conveyor line and is connected to the drive assembly. The two support members are respectively located on both sides of the conveyor line. Each support member has a horizontal bearing section extending to below the end of the battery cell. The horizontal bearing section and the top plate enclose the pickup space. The two horizontal bearing sections are used to support the battery cell.

3. The cell alignment mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that, The horizontal bearing section is provided with a number of adsorption holes or suction cups that are connected to a vacuum source. The adsorption holes or suction cups are used to adsorb the ends of the battery cells.

4. The cell alignment mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The height of the pickup space is 8mm-20mm.

5. A conveying device, characterized in that, The conveying device includes a conveying line and a first straightening mechanism, wherein the first straightening mechanism is the cell straightening mechanism as described in any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The conveying device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The conveying device also includes a detection mechanism and a controller; Both the detection mechanism and the first conditioning mechanism are electrically connected to the controller. The detection mechanism is located at the detection station in front of the first straightening mechanism. The detection mechanism is used to detect the position information of the (i+1)th battery cell conveyed to the detection station on the conveyor line. The controller controls the first straightening mechanism to move based on the detection information of the detection mechanism, so as to adjust the distance between the (i+1)th battery cell delivered to the pickup space and the i-th battery cell on the conveying line, where i≥1.

7. The conveying device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The conveying device also includes a defective piece picking unit and an NG (Not From Good) box, which are located close to the inspection station. The defective piece picking unit is electrically connected to the controller. The testing mechanism is also used to detect appearance defects in the (i+1)th battery cell delivered to the testing station; Based on the detection information from the detection mechanism, the controller controls the defective cell picking unit to pick up the detected defective cells from the conveyor line and place them into the NG material box.

8. The conveying device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The conveying device further includes a second straightening mechanism, a third straightening mechanism, and a fourth straightening mechanism; Along the conveying path of the conveyor line, a coarse straightening station and a fine straightening station are sequentially arranged after the first straightening mechanism. A second straightening mechanism is located at the coarse straightening station, and the third and fourth straightening mechanisms are located at the fine straightening station; wherein: The second and third straightening mechanisms are respectively disposed on both sides of the conveyor line. The second straightening mechanism is configured to move a predetermined distance along a second direction to push the first side of the battery cell located at the coarse straightening station. The third straightening mechanism is configured to move a predetermined distance along the second direction to push the second side of the battery cell located at the fine straightening station. The second side is opposite to the first side. The second direction is perpendicular to the conveying direction of the conveyor line. The fourth straightening mechanism is configured to move a predetermined distance in a direction opposite to the conveying direction of the conveyor line to push the third side of the battery cell located at the straightening station.

9. The conveying device according to claim 8, characterized in that, Both the second and third straightening mechanisms include a first translation drive and at least two first straightening wheels. Each of the first straightening wheels is arranged side by side along the conveying direction of the conveyor line and is installed together at the drive end of the first translation drive. The first translation drive is used to drive each of the first straightening wheels to translate along the second direction.

10. The conveying device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The fourth straightening mechanism includes a second translation drive and at least two second straightening wheels. Each of the second straightening wheels is arranged side by side along the second direction and is installed together at the drive end of the second translation drive. The second translation drive is used to drive each of the second straightening wheels to translate in a direction opposite to the conveying direction of the conveyor line.

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