Bus bar bending device

Abstract

The utility model relates to the technical field of photovoltaic module production equipment, in particular to a bus bar bending device. The bus bar bending device comprises a base frame, a clamping mechanism and an extruding mechanism, the clamping mechanism and the extruding mechanism are arranged on the base frame, the clamping mechanism comprises two clamping jaw assemblies, each clamping jaw assembly comprises two clamping jaws arranged in pairs, and the two clamping jaws arranged in pairs are configured to be capable of getting close to each other or getting away from each other in the first direction; the two groups of clamping jaw assemblies are configured to respectively clamp two different positions of the bus bar along the length direction; the extrusion mechanism is configured to drive the two sets of clamping jaw assemblies to get close to each other or get away from each other in the second direction; wherein the first direction is parallel to the thickness direction of the bus bar; the second direction is parallel to a length direction of the bus bar. The device can be used for automatically bending the bus bar to obtain the bus bar with a convex part in the middle, so that the processing efficiency and the quality of a finished product can be improved, meanwhile, the manual labor amount is reduced, and the automation degree of a production line is favorably improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of photovoltaic module manufacturing equipment, and in particular to a busbar bending device. Background Technology

[0002] Solar cell modules convert solar energy into electrical energy and are becoming increasingly widespread. During the production of solar cell modules, the busbars need to be bent. In some applications, the busbars need to be bent into a structure with a central protrusion (such as...). Figure 1 As shown in the figure, the protrusion of the above-mentioned busbar needs to be relatively sharp so that the protrusion can be smoothly inserted into the hole on the junction box.

[0003] However, at present, the busbars can only be processed by manual bending, which is not only inefficient but also results in poor consistency of finished product quality and is prone to damage. Utility Model Content

[0004] The purpose of this application is to provide a busbar bending device to solve the technical problems of low processing efficiency, poor product quality consistency, and easy damage to the busbar caused by the existing method of manually bending the busbar into a shape with a protrusion in the middle.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, this application adopts the following technical solution:

[0006] A busbar bending device includes a base frame and a clamping mechanism and a pressing mechanism mounted on the base frame, wherein:

[0007] The clamping mechanism includes two sets of gripper assemblies, each set of gripper assemblies including two pairs of grippers, the two pairs of grippers being configured to approach or move away from each other along a first direction, and the two sets of gripper assemblies being configured to clamp the busbar at two different positions along its length.

[0008] The extrusion mechanism is configured to drive two sets of gripper assemblies to approach or move away from each other along a second direction;

[0009] The first direction is parallel to the thickness direction of the busbar; the second direction is parallel to the length direction of the busbar.

[0010] The busbar bending device provided in this application includes a clamping mechanism comprising two pairs of jaws for clamping the busbar, and a pressing mechanism for driving the two pairs of jaws to approach each other to form a protrusion in the middle of the busbar. This device can automatically bend busbars to obtain busbars with a protrusion in the middle, thereby improving processing efficiency and product quality, while reducing manual labor and facilitating the automation of the production line. Furthermore, the device can adjust the shape of the protrusion to meet a wider range of application requirements.

[0011] In some embodiments, each gripper assembly further includes a gripper drive source slidably disposed on the base frame;

[0012] The gripper drive source is a finger cylinder, with the two fingers of the finger cylinder connected to the two grippers respectively; or, there are two gripper drive sources, and the power output ends of the two gripper drive sources are connected to the two grippers respectively.

[0013] The clamping drive source drives two pairs of clamps to approach or move away from each other along a first direction, so that the clamps automatically clamp or release the busbar.

[0014] In some embodiments, the extrusion mechanism includes an extrusion drive source disposed on a base frame;

[0015] The extrusion drive source has two power output ends, and the two power output ends of the extrusion drive source are respectively connected to two sets of gripper assemblies; or, the number of extrusion drive sources is two, and the power output ends of the two extrusion drive sources are respectively connected to two sets of gripper assemblies; or, the power output ends of the extrusion drive source are connected to two sets of gripper assemblies through a transmission structure.

[0016] The two sets of gripper assemblies are driven to approach or move away from each other along the second direction by the extrusion drive source. During the process of the extrusion mechanism driving the two sets of gripper assemblies to approach each other, the part of the busbar located between the two pairs of grippers protrudes along its thickness direction to form a protrusion.

[0017] In some embodiments, the power output end of the extrusion drive source is connected to two sets of gripper assemblies via a transmission structure;

[0018] The transmission structure includes a two-way lead screw and a lead screw nut, wherein:

[0019] The bidirectional lead screw is mounted on the base frame and connected to the power output end of the extrusion drive source;

[0020] There are two lead screw nuts, both of which are screwed onto the bidirectional lead screw and connected to two sets of gripper assemblies respectively;

[0021] The extrusion drive source is configured to drive a bidirectional lead screw to rotate, thereby causing two lead screw nuts to approach or move away from each other in a second direction.

[0022] During the start-up process of the extrusion drive source, the bidirectional lead screw is driven to rotate, causing the two lead screw nuts to approach or move away from each other along the second direction. The movement of the two lead screw nuts, in turn, drives the two sets of gripper assemblies to move synchronously, causing the portion of the busbar located between the two pairs of grippers to bulge along its thickness direction, forming a protrusion. Utilizing the motor-lead screw transmission method allows for more precise control of the position and stroke of the two sets of gripper assemblies, making the device more controllable and facilitating the adjustment of the protrusion's shape.

[0023] In some embodiments, the extrusion mechanism further includes a first guide assembly, which includes a first guide rail and a first slider, wherein:

[0024] The first guide rail extends along the second direction and is mounted on the base frame;

[0025] There are two first sliders, both of which are slidably mounted on the first guide rail and respectively connected to two sets of gripper assemblies.

[0026] The first guide component can limit the movement trajectory of the two sets of gripper assemblies, making the movement of the two sets of gripper assemblies more stable.

[0027] In some embodiments, the busbar bending device further includes a material picking mechanism mounted on a base frame, the material picking mechanism being configured to apply pressure in a first direction to the portion of the busbar located between the two sets of gripper assemblies, causing the portion of the busbar located between the two sets of gripper assemblies to bulge in the first direction.

[0028] The material handling mechanism can assist the extrusion mechanism in making the middle of the busbar bulge in a set direction, thereby improving the forming quality of the busbar and ensuring product consistency.

[0029] In some embodiments, the material handling mechanism includes an air blowing structure configured to blow air toward a portion of the manifold located between two sets of gripper assemblies;

[0030] Alternatively, the material handling mechanism includes a handle and a handle drive source, wherein the handle drive source is mounted on the base frame and its power output end is connected to the handle, and the handle drive source is configured to drive the handle to move between two sets of gripper assemblies so that the handle pushes the portion of the busbar located between the two sets of gripper assemblies to protrude in a first direction.

[0031] For machining applications where the busbar is relatively thin, air blowing is used to create a raised section in the middle of the busbar. This method applies gentler pressure to the busbar, preventing breakage. For machining applications where the busbar is relatively hard, a lifting rod is used to lift the middle of the busbar to create a raised section.

[0032] In some embodiments, the material handling mechanism includes a handle and a handle drive source, wherein:

[0033] The lever is driven by a piston cylinder, and the cylinder body of the piston cylinder is rotatably connected to the base frame;

[0034] The middle position of the lever is rotatably connected to the base frame, one end of the lever is rotatably connected to the end of the extension rod of the piston cylinder, and the other end of the lever can move between the gripper assembly under the drive of the piston cylinder.

[0035] When the lever drive source retracts, the end of the lever away from the lever drive source (hereinafter referred to as the picking end) is located outside the gap between the two sets of gripper assemblies; when the lever drive source extends, the picking end of the lever moves into the gap between the two sets of gripper assemblies. During this process, the picking end of the lever picks up the manifold to form a protrusion.

[0036] In some embodiments, the two jaws in each jaw assembly are a first jaw and a second jaw, respectively:

[0037] The first jaws in the two sets of gripper assemblies are arranged opposite each other, and the two first jaws are configured to approach each other to clamp the protruding portion of the busbar;

[0038] The second jaws in the two sets of gripper assemblies are arranged opposite each other, and the second jaws are provided with guide slopes. The guide slopes on the two second jaws are arranged opposite each other and a conical guide channel is formed between them.

[0039] The lever can move through the guide channel to between the two first grippers.

[0040] When the lever drive source retracts, the picking end of the lever is located on the side of the second gripper away from the first gripper; when the lever drive source extends, the picking end of the lever passes through the gap between the two second grippers and enters the gap between the two first grippers. During this process, the guide channel guides the lever to ensure that the lever can enter between the two first grippers, thereby ensuring that the middle part of the busbar protrudes in the direction from the second gripper to the first gripper.

[0041] In some embodiments, the busbar bending device further includes at least two limiting units arranged sequentially along the second direction, the limiting units being slidably disposed on the base frame along the second direction, and at least one limiting unit being provided on each side of the clamping mechanism along the second direction.

[0042] The limiting unit includes at least one limiting structure configured to attract or hold the busbar.

[0043] Multiple limiting units can fix the busbar at multiple points, thus suspending the busbar in the air. As the two sets of gripper assemblies clamp the busbar and approach each other, the gripper assemblies and limiting units on the same side move synchronously. At this time, the limiting units on both sides of the clamping mechanism push the busbar towards the middle, thereby assisting the extrusion mechanism in forming a protrusion.

[0044] In some embodiments, the limiting structure is a suction nozzle or a limiting claw.

[0045] The limiting structure can use negative pressure adsorption or clamping to fix the busbar.

[0046] In some embodiments, the limiting unit further includes a mounting plate, which is slidably disposed on the base frame, and the limiting structure is disposed on the mounting plate;

[0047] The busbar bending device also includes an adjustment assembly disposed between two adjacent mounting plates located on the same side of the clamping mechanism, and the adjustment assembly is configured to adjust the relative position of the two adjacent mounting plates along a second direction.

[0048] Multiple limiting units located on the same side of the clamping mechanism are connected as a whole by an adjusting assembly, enabling the multiple limiting units on the same side to move synchronously. This facilitates pushing the two ends of the busbar towards the middle to form a protrusion during the bending process of the busbar, while preventing deformation (e.g., protrusion or torsion) of other parts of the busbar during the pushing process. In addition, the adjusting assembly is configured to adjust the relative position of two adjacent mounting plates along a second direction, that is, the position of each limiting unit along the second direction in the initial state can be adjusted to accommodate different battery string types.

[0049] In some embodiments, the busbar bending device further includes a second guide mechanism, which includes a second guide rail and a second slider, wherein:

[0050] The second guide rail extends along the second direction and is mounted on the base frame;

[0051] The second slider is slidably mounted on the second guide rail and connected to the mounting plate.

[0052] The second guide mechanism can limit the movement trajectory of the limiting unit, ensuring that the limiting unit moves along the second direction.

[0053] In some embodiments, the two sides of the clamping mechanism along the second direction are respectively the first side and the second side;

[0054] The busbar bending device also includes two sets of synchronous connection components, one set of which is connected to the limiting unit located on the first side, and the other set of which is connected to the limiting unit located on the second side.

[0055] Both sets of synchronous connection components are connected to the extrusion mechanism, which is also configured to drive the two sets of synchronous connection components to approach or move away from each other along a second direction.

[0056] Two sets of synchronous connection components can transmit the power of the extrusion mechanism to the limiting units on both sides of the clamping mechanism, so that the limiting units on both sides of the clamping mechanism correspond one-to-one with the two sets of gripper components and move synchronously, avoiding excessive pulling on the busbar during the bending process and improving the forming quality of the busbar.

[0057] In some embodiments, the busbar bending device further includes an avoidance drive source disposed on the base frame. The clamping mechanism and the extrusion mechanism are both connected to the power output end of the avoidance drive source. The avoidance drive source is configured to drive the clamping mechanism and the extrusion mechanism to move synchronously along a third direction, which is parallel to the width direction of the busbar.

[0058] By setting an avoidance drive source to drive the clamping mechanism and the squeezing mechanism to move synchronously in the third direction (i.e., towards or away from the limiting unit), when the traction mechanism is used to place the busbar on the limiting structure of the limiting unit, the clamping mechanism and the squeezing mechanism can be driven in advance to move synchronously away from the limiting unit, so that the clamping mechanism and the squeezing mechanism are staggered from the limiting structure in the third direction, preventing the clamping mechanism and the squeezing mechanism from interfering with the pulling out of the busbar. Attached Figure Description

[0059] 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.

[0060] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a busbar with a protrusion in the middle;

[0061] Figure 2 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of the busbar bending device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0062] Figure 3 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of the base frame, clamping mechanism and extrusion mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application when the two sets of gripper assemblies are in a state of being far apart from each other;

[0063] Figure 4 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of the base frame, clamping mechanism and extrusion mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application when the two sets of gripper assemblies are in a state of close proximity to each other;

[0064] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a busbar manufactured using the busbar bending device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0065] Figure 6A three-dimensional schematic diagram of the base frame, clamping mechanism, extrusion mechanism, and material handling mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application from one angle;

[0066] Figure 7 A schematic diagram illustrating the operating principle of the two pairs of grippers and the material handling mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0067] Figure 8 A three-dimensional schematic diagram from another angle of the base frame, clamping mechanism, extrusion mechanism, and material handling mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0068] Figure 9 This is a frontal schematic diagram of the busbar bending device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0069] Figure 10 for Figure 9 Enlarged view at point A;

[0070] Figure 11 Partial schematic diagram of the busbar bending device provided in the embodiments of this application Figure 1 ;

[0071] Figure 12 Partial schematic diagram of the busbar bending device provided in the embodiments of this application Figure 2 ;

[0072] Figure 13 Partial schematic diagram of the busbar bending device provided in the embodiments of this application Figure 3 .

[0073] icon:

[0074] 1-Base frame;

[0075] 2-Clamping mechanism; 21-Gripper assembly; 211-First gripper; 212-Second gripper; 2121-Guide ramp; 213-Gripper drive source;

[0076] 3-Extrusion mechanism; 31-Extrusion drive source; 32-Bidirectional lead screw; 33-Lead screw nut; 34-First guide assembly;

[0077] 4-Material picking mechanism; 41-Picking rod; 42-Picking rod drive source; 43-Support block;

[0078] 5-Limiting unit; 51-Suction nozzle; 52-Mounting plate;

[0079] 6-Adjustment assembly; 61-Adjustment rod; 611-Adjustment elongated hole; 62-Fixing block;

[0080] 7-Synchronous connection component; 71-Connecting block; 72-Connecting rod; 73-Connecting shaft;

[0081] 8-Second guiding mechanism;

[0082] 100 - Busbar; 101 - Protrusion. Detailed Implementation

[0083] The technical solutions of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the embodiments. 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.

[0084] It should be noted that in the description of this application, 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. They are used solely for the convenience of describing this application and for 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. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0085] It should be noted that, in the description of this application, the terms "connection" and "installation" 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 direct connection or a connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0086] A battery string is composed of multiple battery cells connected in series or parallel. A busbar connects multiple battery strings together, enabling current collection and transmission between them. The busbar's leads extend into the junction box and connect to the conductive plates inside the box via welding, crimping, or other methods, ensuring that current can be smoothly transmitted from the busbar to the junction box, and then from the junction box to external devices such as inverters and controllers.

[0087] As mentioned in the background section, in some applications, it is necessary to bend the busbar 100 into a structure with a central protrusion 101 (e.g., Figure 1 As shown, the protrusion 101 is a structural form of the busbar's lead wire, and the protrusion 101 needs to be relatively sharp to facilitate its smooth insertion into the hole on the junction box. Existing technology lacks a device for bending the busbar 100 into a shape with the protrusion 101 in the middle. Manually bending the busbar 100 into this shape suffers from low processing efficiency, poor product quality consistency, and the risk of damaging the busbar.

[0088] Based on this, the present application provides a bus bar bending device. Referring to Figures 2 to 4 , the bus bar bending device includes a base frame 1, a clamping mechanism 2 and an extrusion mechanism 3 mounted on the base frame 1, where:

[0089] The clamping mechanism 2 includes two groups of jaw components 21. Each group of jaw components 21 includes two jaws arranged in pairs. The two jaws are configured to be able to approach or move away from each other in the first direction. The two groups of jaw components 21 are configured to be able to clamp two different positions along the length direction of the bus bar 100 respectively;

[0090] The extrusion mechanism 3 is configured to drive the two groups of jaw components 21 to approach or move away from each other in the second direction;

[0091] Wherein, the first direction is parallel to the thickness direction of the bus bar 100; the second direction is parallel to the length direction of the bus bar 100.

[0092] Referring to Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the optional working process of the bus bar bending device provided by the present application is as follows:

[0093] For the convenience of description, the two jaws in each group of jaw components 21 are respectively the first jaw 211 and the second jaw 212. The first jaws 211 in the two groups of jaw components 21 are arranged oppositely, and the second jaws 212 in the two groups of jaw components 21 are arranged oppositely;

[0094] First, place the bus bar 100 between the paired first jaws 211 and second jaws 212, and then the paired two jaws approach each other to clamp the bus bar 100 from both sides in the thickness direction of the bus bar 100; at this time, the two pairs of jaws respectively clamp two different positions along the length direction of the bus bar 100;

[0095] Next, the extrusion mechanism 3 drives the two groups of jaw components 21 to approach each other. During this process, the part of the bus bar 100 located between the two pairs of jaws bulges in its thickness direction to form a convex part 101. The convex part 101 enters between the two first jaws 211 or between the two second jaws 212, and is pressed and fitted during the process of the two groups of jaw components 21 approaching each other, and finally forms a "ji" - shaped structure as shown in Figure 5 .

[0096] It should be noted that the two bus bar segments on both sides forming the convex part 101 can be fitted as shown in Figure 5 (that is, there is no gap between them), or can be angularly connected as shown in Figure 1 . It can be understood that the closer the two bus bar segments on both sides forming the convex part 101 are fitted, the more convenient it is for the convex part 101 to penetrate into the hole on the junction box.

[0097] It should also be noted that the shape of the protrusion 101 can be adjusted by controlling the stroke of the two pairs of grippers and the minimum distance between the two pairs of grippers. For example, when it is necessary to increase (or decrease) the protrusion height of the protrusion 101, the stroke of the two pairs of grippers is increased (or decreased) accordingly; when it is necessary to increase (or decrease) the gap between the two busbar segments that make up the protrusion 101, the minimum distance between the two pairs of grippers is increased (or decreased) accordingly.

[0098] As described above, the busbar bending device provided in this application can automatically bend the busbar 100 with a central protrusion 101, thereby improving processing efficiency and finished product quality, while reducing manual labor and enhancing the automation level of the production line. Furthermore, the device can adjust the shape of the protrusion 101 to meet a wider range of application requirements.

[0099] As an optional embodiment, each gripper assembly 21 further includes a gripper drive source 213 slidably disposed on the base frame 1;

[0100] The gripper drive source 213 is a finger cylinder, with the two fingers of the finger cylinder connected to the two grippers respectively; or, there are two gripper drive sources 213, and the power output ends of the two gripper drive sources 213 are connected to the two grippers respectively.

[0101] Reference Figure 3 In this embodiment, the gripper drive source 213 is a finger cylinder. The cylinder body of the finger cylinder is connected to the squeezing mechanism 3. The two fingers of the finger cylinder are respectively connected to the paired first gripper 211 and second gripper 212. In the above structure, the squeezing mechanism 3 can drive the two finger cylinders to approach or move away from each other along the second direction, thereby driving the two pairs of grippers to approach or move away from each other along the second direction. The finger cylinder can independently control the opening and closing of a pair of grippers, and has advantages such as small size, light weight and constant gripping torque. Using a finger cylinder as the gripper drive source 213 can reduce the installation space required for the gripper assembly 21, thereby improving the compactness of the device.

[0102] In some other embodiments, the gripper drive source 213 is a piston cylinder; in each gripper assembly 21, there are two piston cylinders, and the cylinder bodies of both piston cylinders are connected to the extrusion mechanism 3. The telescopic ends of the two piston cylinders are arranged opposite to each other and are respectively connected to the paired first gripper 211 and second gripper 212. In the above structure, when the telescopic ends of the two piston cylinders in the same group extend or retract simultaneously, they drive the paired first gripper 211 and second gripper 212 to approach or move away from each other along a first direction.

[0103] As an optional embodiment, the extrusion mechanism 3 includes an extrusion drive source 31 disposed on the base frame 1;

[0104] The extrusion drive source 31 has two power output ends, and the two power output ends of the extrusion drive source 31 are respectively connected to two sets of gripper assemblies 21; or, there are two extrusion drive sources 31, and the power output ends of the two extrusion drive sources 31 are respectively connected to two sets of gripper assemblies 21; or, the power output ends of the extrusion drive source 31 are connected to two sets of gripper assemblies 21 through a transmission structure.

[0105] Continue to refer to Figure 3 In this embodiment, the power output end of the extrusion drive source 31 is connected to two sets of gripper assemblies 21 via a transmission structure. The transmission structure includes a bidirectional lead screw 32 and lead screw nuts 33, wherein: the bidirectional lead screw 32 is rotatably mounted on the base frame 1 and connected to the power output end of the extrusion drive source 31; there are two lead screw nuts 33, both screwed to the bidirectional lead screw 32 and respectively connected to the two sets of gripper assemblies 21 (specifically, the two lead screw nuts 33 are respectively connected to the cylinder bodies of two finger cylinders); the extrusion drive source 31 is configured to drive the bidirectional lead screw 32 to rotate, thereby causing the two lead screw nuts 33 to approach or move away from each other along a second direction, and the movement of the two lead screw nuts 33 will in turn drive the two sets of gripper assemblies 21 to move synchronously. Further, the extrusion drive source 31 is a motor, the body of which is fixedly mounted on the base frame 1, and the output shaft of which is connected to one end of the bidirectional lead screw 32 via a coupling. The use of a motor lead screw transmission method allows for more precise control of the position and stroke of the two sets of gripper assemblies 21, making the device more controllable and facilitating the adjustment of the shape of the protrusion 101.

[0106] In some other embodiments, the extrusion drive source 31 is a bidirectional cylinder (essentially a finger cylinder), the cylinder body of which is fixedly mounted on the base frame 1, and the two ends of which are respectively connected to two sets of gripper assemblies 21. Since the two ends of the bidirectional cylinder can extend and retract synchronously, they drive the two sets of gripper assemblies 21 to approach or move away from each other.

[0107] In other embodiments, the extrusion drive source 31 is a piston cylinder, and there are two piston cylinders. The telescopic ends of the two piston cylinders are arranged opposite each other and are respectively connected to two sets of gripper assemblies 21.

[0108] In addition to the above embodiments, one set of gripper assemblies 21 can be slidably connected to the base frame 1 and driven by the extrusion mechanism 3, while the other set of gripper assemblies 21 can be fixedly installed on the base frame 1. Thus, the extrusion mechanism 3 can drive one set of gripper assemblies 21 to move closer to or further away from the other set of gripper assemblies 21, thereby achieving mutual approach or separation of the two sets of gripper assemblies 21.

[0109] Reference Figure 6, in some embodiments, the extrusion mechanism 3 further includes a first guiding component 34. The first guiding component 34 includes a first guide rail and a first slider, where:

[0110] The first guide rail extends along the second direction and is disposed on the base frame 1;

[0111] There are two first sliders. Both of the two first sliders are slidably disposed on the first guide rail and are respectively connected to two sets of jaw components 21.

[0112] In this embodiment, the two first sliders, the two jaw driving sources 213 (specifically finger cylinders), and the two screw nuts 33 are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence. A corresponding set of first slider, jaw driving source 213, and screw nut 33 are assembled into a whole through fasteners such as plate-shaped or block-shaped connecting pieces and screws. Through the first guiding component 34, the movement trajectories of the two sets of jaw components 21 can be restricted, making the two sets of jaw components 21 move more smoothly.

[0113] Continue to refer to Figure 6 , the bus bar bending device further includes a material picking mechanism 4 installed on the base frame 1. The material picking mechanism 4 is configured to be able to apply a pressure along the first direction to the part of the bus bar 100 located between the two sets of jaw components 21, so that the part of the bus bar located between the two sets of jaw components 21 bulges along the first direction.

[0114] Combined with Figure 7 , the working principle of the material picking mechanism 4 is as follows: First, place the bus bar 100 between the paired first jaws 211 and second jaws 212; then, the two pairs of jaws respectively clamp two different positions of the bus bar 100 along the length direction. After that, the extrusion mechanism 3 drives the two pairs of jaws to approach each other. At the same time, control the material picking mechanism 4 to act, so that the part of the bus bar 100 located between the two sets of jaw components 21 bulges into the gap between the two first jaws 211 (or the two second jaws 212), assisting the extrusion mechanism 3 to form a convex portion 101; during the process of the two pairs of jaws approaching each other, the two first jaws 211 (or the two second jaws 212) press the convex portion 101 tightly together, and finally form a "ji" - shaped structure as shown in Figure 5 shown.

[0115] As described above, the material picking mechanism 4 can assist the extrusion mechanism 3 to make the middle part of the bus bar 100 bulge along the set direction, ensure that the convex portion 101 is located between the two first jaws 211 (or the two second jaws 212), thereby improving the forming quality of the bus bar 100 and ensuring the consistency of the product.

[0116] As an optional embodiment, the material picking mechanism 4 includes a blowing structure, and the blowing structure is configured to be able to blow air towards the part of the bus bar located between the two sets of jaw components 21;

[0117] Alternatively, the material handling mechanism 4 includes a handle 41 and a handle drive source 42, wherein the handle drive source 42 is mounted on the base frame 1 and its power output end is connected to the handle 41. The handle drive source 42 is configured to drive the handle 41 to move between the two sets of gripper assemblies 21, so that the handle 41 pushes the portion of the busbar located between the two sets of gripper assemblies 21 to protrude along a first direction.

[0118] It should be noted that for machining applications where the busbar 100 is relatively thin, the first type of material handling mechanism 4 is selected, which uses air blowing to form a protrusion 101 in the middle of the busbar 100. This method applies gentler pressure to the busbar 100, preventing breakage. For machining applications where the busbar 100 is relatively hard, the second type of material handling mechanism 4 is selected, which uses a lifting rod 41 to lift the middle of the busbar 100 to form the protrusion 101.

[0119] Continue to refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 In this embodiment, the material picking mechanism 4 includes a picking rod 41 and a picking rod drive source 42, wherein:

[0120] The lever drive source 42 is a piston cylinder, and the cylinder body of the piston cylinder is rotatably connected to the base frame 1;

[0121] The middle position of the lever 41 is rotatably connected to the base frame 1, one end of the lever 41 is rotatably connected to the end of the telescopic rod of the piston cylinder, and the other end of the lever 41 can move between the gripper assembly 21 under the drive of the piston cylinder.

[0122] Specifically, the material picking mechanism 4 also includes a support block 43, which is fixedly mounted on the base frame 1 and rotatably connected to the middle position of the picking rod 41. When the picking rod drive source 42 retracts, the end of the picking rod 41 away from the picking rod drive source 42 (hereinafter referred to as the picking end) is located between the two sets of gripper assemblies 21 and on the side of the second gripper 212 away from the first gripper 211; when the picking rod drive source 42 extends, the picking end of the picking rod 41 passes through the gap between the two second grippers 212 and enters the gap between the two first grippers 211. During this process, the picking end of the picking rod 41 picks up the manifold 100 to form a protrusion 101.

[0123] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8Based on the above structure, the two first grippers 211 are configured to approach each other to clamp the protruding portion of the busbar; the second gripper 212 is provided with a guide ramp 2121, and the guide ramps 2121 on the two second grippers 212 are arranged opposite each other, forming a conical guide channel between them; the lever 41 can move through the guide channel to the space between the two first grippers 211. The guide channel guides the lever 41, ensuring that the lever 41 can enter the space between the two first grippers 211, thereby ensuring that the middle part of the busbar 100 protrudes in the direction from the second gripper 212 to the first gripper 211.

[0124] The working principle of the material picking mechanism 4 provided in this embodiment is as follows: In the initial state, the control rod drive source 42 is retracted; then, the two pairs of jaws clamp the manifold 100 at two different positions along its length. After that, the extrusion mechanism 3 drives the two pairs of jaws to approach each other. At the same time, the control rod drive source 42 extends, driving the picking end of the picking rod 41 to pass through the gap between the two second jaws 212 and enter the gap between the two first jaws 211. The picking rod 41 directionally lifts the middle part of the manifold 100 to form a protrusion 101. Subsequently, the control rod drive source 42 retracts, driving the picking end of the picking rod 41 to move out of the gap between the two sets of jaw assemblies 21 to avoid affecting the movement of the two pairs of jaws. Finally, the extrusion mechanism 3 continues to drive the two pairs of jaws to approach each other to press the protrusion 101 tightly together.

[0125] In other embodiments, the material handling mechanism 4 includes an air blowing structure, which comprises an air source and a nozzle connected by a pipeline. The nozzle is fixedly mounted on the base frame 1 and located between the two sets of gripper assemblies 21. The nozzle is positioned on the side of the second gripper 212 away from the first gripper 211, with its air jet end facing the gap between the two sets of gripper assemblies 21. When the material handling mechanism 4 is activated, the nozzle blows air towards the gap between the two sets of gripper assemblies 21 to blow the portion of the manifold 100 located between the two sets of gripper assemblies 21 into the gap between the two first grippers 211.

[0126] Reference Figure 9 and Figure 10 The busbar bending device further includes at least two limiting units 5 arranged sequentially along the second direction. The limiting units 5 are slidably disposed on the base frame 1 along the second direction. At least one limiting unit 5 is provided on each side of the clamping mechanism 2 along the second direction.

[0127] The limiting unit 5 includes at least one limiting structure configured to attract or hold the busbar 100.

[0128] like Figure 9As shown, multiple limiting units 5 are respectively provided on the left and right sides of the clamping mechanism 2. The multiple limiting units 5 can fix the busbar 100 at multiple points, thereby suspending the busbar 100 in the air. During the process of the two sets of gripper assemblies 21 clamping the busbar 100 and approaching each other, the gripper assemblies 21 and the limiting units 5 on the same side move synchronously. At this time, the limiting units 5 on both sides of the clamping mechanism 2 push the busbar 100 towards the middle, thereby assisting the extrusion mechanism 3 and the picking mechanism 4 in forming the protrusion 101.

[0129] As an optional embodiment, the limiting structure is a suction nozzle 51 or a limiting claw.

[0130] Reference Figure 11 In this embodiment, the limiting structure is a suction nozzle 51, which is connected to the air source through a pipeline and uses negative pressure to draw in the manifold 100.

[0131] It should be noted that the number of nozzles 51 in each limiting unit 5 can be adjusted adaptively according to actual processing requirements, and is not limited here. The nozzles 51 are existing structures, and their structure will not be described in detail here.

[0132] Reference Figure 11 In some embodiments, the limiting unit 5 further includes a mounting plate 52, which is slidably disposed on the base frame 1, and the limiting structure is disposed on the mounting plate 52. In this embodiment, each limiting unit includes a mounting plate 52 and at least one suction nozzle 51, wherein the suction nozzle 51 is fixedly mounted on the mounting plate 52 by a fixing block.

[0133] Furthermore, the busbar bending device also includes a second guide mechanism 8, which includes a second guide rail and a second slider, wherein:

[0134] The second guide rail extends along the second direction and is mounted on the base frame 1;

[0135] The second slider is slidably mounted on the second guide rail and connected to the mounting plate 52.

[0136] Specifically, the mounting plate 52 has a front and a back side arranged opposite to each other, and a limiting structure is installed on the front side of the mounting plate 52. There are multiple second sliders, and at least one second slider is fixedly installed on the back side of each mounting plate 52 (the number can be adjusted according to the length of the mounting plate 52). The second guide mechanism 8 can limit the movement trajectory of the limiting unit 5, ensuring that the limiting unit 5 moves along the second direction.

[0137] Reference Figure 12 The busbar bending device further includes an adjustment component 6, which is disposed between two adjacent mounting plates 52 located on the same side of the clamping mechanism 2, and the adjustment component 6 is configured to adjust the relative position of the two adjacent mounting plates 52 along the second direction.

[0138] Furthermore, the clamping mechanism 2 has a first side and a second side on both sides along the second direction, respectively. Multiple limiting units 5 located on the first side of the clamping mechanism 2 are connected as a whole by an adjusting assembly 6, and multiple limiting units 5 located on the second side of the clamping mechanism 2 are also connected as a whole by the adjusting assembly 6. This allows multiple limiting units 5 on the same side of the clamping mechanism 2 to move synchronously. This arrangement facilitates pushing both ends of the busbar 100 towards the center to form a protrusion 101 during the bending process of the busbar 100, while preventing deformation (e.g., protrusion or torsion) of other parts of the busbar 100 except for the protrusion 101 during the pushing process. In addition, the adjusting assembly 6 is configured to adjust the relative position of two adjacent mounting plates 52 along the second direction, meaning that the position of each limiting unit along the second direction in its initial state can be adjusted to accommodate different battery string designs.

[0139] Continue to refer to Figure 12 In this embodiment, there are multiple sets of adjusting components 6, with one set of adjusting components 6 provided between every two adjacent mounting plates 52 on the same side. Taking the structure of one set of adjusting components 6 and two adjacent mounting plates 52 as an example, the adjusting component 6 includes an adjusting rod 61 and two fixing blocks 62. The adjusting rod 61 is provided with an adjusting elongated hole 611, the length direction of which is parallel to the second direction. Screws or other fasteners pass through the adjusting elongated hole 611 and are screwed to the fixing blocks 62. The two fixing blocks 62 correspond one-to-one with the two mounting plates 52, and the corresponding set of fixing blocks 62 and mounting plates 52 are fixedly connected by screws or other fasteners. In the above structure, the adjusting elongated hole 611 provides an adjustment amount for the screw inside, allowing the relative position of the two fixing blocks 62 to be adjusted, thereby adjusting the relative position of the two mounting plates 52, and ultimately achieving the purpose of adjusting the position of the limiting unit 5 along the second direction in the initial state.

[0140] Reference Figure 2 In some embodiments, the busbar bending device further includes an avoidance drive source disposed on the base frame 1. The clamping mechanism 2 and the extrusion mechanism 3 are both connected to the power output end of the avoidance drive source. The avoidance drive source is configured to drive the clamping mechanism 2 and the extrusion mechanism 3 to move synchronously along a third direction, which is parallel to the width direction of the busbar.

[0141] By setting an avoidance drive source to drive the clamping mechanism 2 and the squeezing mechanism 3 to move synchronously in the third direction (i.e., towards or away from the limiting unit 5), when the traction mechanism is used to place the busbar on the limiting structure of the limiting unit 5, the clamping mechanism 2 and the squeezing mechanism 3 can be driven in advance to move synchronously away from the limiting unit 5, so that the clamping mechanism 2 and the squeezing mechanism 3 are staggered from the limiting structure in the third direction, preventing the clamping mechanism 2 and the squeezing mechanism 3 from interfering with the pulling out of the busbar.

[0142] The drive source for obstacle avoidance can be any of a motor, electric cylinder, or piston cylinder. Its power output end can be directly connected to the clamping mechanism 2 and the pressing mechanism 3, or it can be connected to the clamping mechanism 2 and the pressing mechanism 3 using a transmission structure such as a lead screw and nut, or a gear and rack. This application does not impose specific limitations.

[0143] Reference Figure 13 In some embodiments, the busbar bending device further includes two sets of synchronous connection components 7, one set of synchronous connection components 7 being connected to the limiting unit 5 located on the first side, and the other set of synchronous connection components 7 being connected to the limiting unit 5 located on the second side.

[0144] Both sets of synchronous connection components 7 are connected to the extrusion mechanism 3, and the extrusion mechanism 3 is also configured to drive the two sets of synchronous connection components 7 to approach or move away from each other along a second direction.

[0145] The two sets of synchronous connection components 7 can transmit the power of the extrusion mechanism 3 to the limiting units 5 on both sides of the clamping mechanism 2, so that the limiting units 5 on both sides of the clamping mechanism 2 correspond one-to-one with the two sets of gripper components 21 and move synchronously, avoiding excessive pulling on the busbar 100 during the bending process and improving the forming quality of the busbar 100.

[0146] Taking the structure of one set of synchronous connection components 7 as an example, the synchronous connection component 7 includes a connecting block 71, a connecting rod 72, and a connecting shaft 73. One end of the connecting block 71 is fixed to the mounting plate 52 closest to the clamping mechanism 2 by screws or other fasteners. The other end of the connecting block 71 is connected to one end of the connecting rod 72 via the connecting shaft 73. The other end of the connecting rod 72 is fixed to the lead screw nut 33 on the same side by screws or other fasteners. With this structure, when the lead screw nut 33 slides on the bidirectional lead screw 32 under the drive of the motor, the lead screw nut 33 transmits power to the mounting plate 52 sequentially through the connecting rod 72, the connecting shaft 73, and the connecting block 71. Furthermore, since multiple mounting plates 52 on the same side are assembled into a whole by the adjusting component 6, the lead screw nut 33 drives multiple limiting units 5 on the same side to move synchronously during its movement. In addition, the connecting block 71 and the connecting rod 72 are connected by the connecting shaft 73. The connecting block 71 and the connecting rod 72 can move along the third direction on the connecting shaft 73. When the clamping mechanism 2 and the squeezing mechanism 3 need to avoid the limiting unit, the connecting shaft 73 can ensure that the connection between the connecting block 71 and the connecting rod 72 is not interrupted, and can also provide guidance for the clamping mechanism 2 and the squeezing mechanism 3 to avoid the limiting unit in the third direction.

[0147] In other embodiments, the synchronous connection assembly 7 may also include only a connecting rod 72, with both ends of the connecting rod 72 fixedly connected to a lead screw nut 33 and a mounting plate 52 on the same side, respectively. The mounting plate 52 can be any one of multiple mounting plates 52 on the same side. It is understood that the length of the connecting rod 72 is minimized when it is connected to the mounting plate 52 closest to the clamping mechanism 2.

[0148] In summary, the busbar bending device provided in this application includes a base frame 1 and a clamping mechanism 2, a pressing mechanism 3, a material picking mechanism 4, and a limiting unit 5 mounted on the base frame 1. The clamping mechanism 2 includes two pairs of grippers for clamping the busbar 100. The pressing mechanism 3 drives the two pairs of grippers to approach each other, forming a protrusion 101 in the middle of the busbar 100. The material picking mechanism 4 directionally blows or lifts the middle of the busbar 100 so that the protrusion 101 protrudes in a set direction. The limiting unit 5 suspends the busbar 100 and pushes both ends of the busbar 100 toward the protrusion 101. Through the coordinated operation of these mechanisms, a busbar 100 with a protrusion 101 in the middle is formed. This busbar bending device has high controllability, allowing adjustment of the shape of the protrusion 101 (e.g., protrusion height), meeting various processing requirements, and adapting to different battery string designs.

[0149] Furthermore, the number of base frames 1 in this application can be flexibly adjusted according to actual application scenarios, design requirements (e.g., whether the clamping mechanism 2 and the extrusion mechanism 3 need to move in the third direction), load size, space constraints, etc. Whether a single base frame simplifies the structure or multiple base frames optimize performance, they all serve as basic support structures, adapting to the busbar bending device claimed in this application.

[0150] 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 busbar bending device, characterized in that, The busbar bending device includes a base frame and a clamping mechanism and a pressing mechanism mounted on the base frame, wherein: The clamping mechanism includes two sets of clamping jaw assemblies. Each set of clamping jaw assemblies includes two pairs of clamping jaws. The two pairs of clamping jaws are configured to approach or move away from each other along a first direction. The two sets of clamping jaw assemblies are configured to clamp the busbar at two different positions along its length. The extrusion mechanism is configured to drive the two sets of gripper assemblies to approach or move away from each other along a second direction; Wherein, the first direction is parallel to the thickness direction of the busbar; the second direction is parallel to the length direction of the busbar.

2. The busbar bending device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Each of the gripper assemblies further includes a gripper drive source that is slidably disposed on the base frame; The gripper drive source is a finger cylinder, and the two fingers of the finger cylinder are respectively connected to the two grippers; or, the number of gripper drive sources is two, and the power output terminals of the two gripper drive sources are respectively connected to the two grippers.

3. The busbar bending device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The extrusion mechanism includes an extrusion drive source disposed on the base frame; The extrusion drive source has two power output ends, and the two power output ends of the extrusion drive source are respectively connected to two sets of gripper assemblies; or, the number of extrusion drive sources is two, and the power output ends of the two extrusion drive sources are respectively connected to two sets of gripper assemblies; or, the power output ends of the extrusion drive source are connected to two sets of gripper assemblies through a transmission structure.

4. The busbar bending device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The power output end of the extrusion drive source is connected to the two sets of gripper assemblies through a transmission structure. The transmission structure includes a bidirectional lead screw and a lead screw nut, wherein: The bidirectional lead screw is rotatably mounted on the base frame and connected to the power output end of the extrusion drive source; The number of lead screw nuts is two, and both lead screw nuts are screwed to the bidirectional lead screw and respectively connected to two sets of the gripper assemblies; The extrusion drive source is configured to drive the bidirectional lead screw to rotate, thereby causing the two lead screw nuts to approach or move away from each other along the second direction.

5. The busbar bending device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The extrusion mechanism further includes a first guide assembly, which comprises a first guide rail and a first slider, wherein: The first guide rail extends along the second direction and is disposed on the base frame; There are two first sliders, both of which are slidably mounted on the first guide rail and respectively connected to the two sets of gripper assemblies.

6. The busbar bending device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The busbar bending device further includes a material picking mechanism mounted on the base frame. The material picking mechanism is configured to apply pressure along the first direction to the portion of the busbar located between the two sets of the gripper assemblies, causing the portion of the busbar located between the two sets of the gripper assemblies to bulge along the first direction.

7. The busbar bending device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The material handling mechanism includes an air blowing structure configured to blow air toward a portion of the manifold located between the two sets of gripper assemblies. Alternatively, the material handling mechanism includes a lifting rod and a lifting rod drive source, wherein the lifting rod drive source is disposed on the base frame and its power output end is connected to the lifting rod, and the lifting rod drive source is configured to drive the lifting rod to move between the two sets of the gripper assemblies, so that the lifting rod pushes the portion of the busbar located between the two sets of the gripper assemblies to protrude along the first direction.

8. The busbar bending device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The material handling mechanism includes a lifting rod and a lifting rod drive source, wherein: The lever drive source is a piston cylinder, and the cylinder body of the piston cylinder is rotatably connected to the base frame; The middle position of the lever is rotatably connected to the base frame, one end of the lever is rotatably connected to the end of the telescopic rod of the piston cylinder, and the other end of the lever can move between the gripper assembly under the drive of the piston cylinder.

9. The busbar bending device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The two grippers in each set of gripper assemblies are a first gripper and a second gripper, wherein: The first jaws in the two sets of gripper assemblies are arranged opposite each other, and the two first jaws are configured to approach each other to clamp the protruding portion of the busbar; The second jaws in the two sets of gripper assemblies are arranged opposite to each other, and the second jaws are provided with guide slopes. The guide slopes on the two second jaws are arranged opposite to each other and a tapered guide channel is formed between them. The lever can move through the guide channel to between the two first grippers.

10. The busbar bending device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The busbar bending device further includes at least two limiting units arranged sequentially along the second direction. The limiting units are slidably disposed on the base frame along the second direction. At least one of the limiting units is respectively provided on both sides of the clamping mechanism along the second direction. The limiting unit includes at least one limiting structure configured to attract or clamp the manifold.

11. The busbar bending device according to claim 10, characterized in that, The limiting structure is a suction nozzle or a limiting claw.

12. The busbar bending device according to claim 10, characterized in that, The limiting unit also includes a mounting plate, which is slidably disposed on the base frame, and the limiting structure is disposed on the mounting plate; The busbar bending device further includes an adjustment component, which is disposed between two adjacent mounting plates located on the same side of the clamping mechanism, and the adjustment component is configured to adjust the relative position of the two adjacent mounting plates along the second direction.

13. The busbar bending device according to claim 12, characterized in that, The busbar bending device further includes a second guide mechanism, which comprises a second guide rail and a second slider, wherein: The second guide rail extends along the second direction and is disposed on the base frame; The second slider is slidably mounted on the second guide rail and connected to the mounting plate.

14. The busbar bending device according to claim 10, characterized in that, The clamping mechanism has a first side and a second side on both sides along the second direction, respectively; The busbar bending device also includes two sets of synchronous connection components, one set of which is connected to the limiting unit located on the first side, and the other set of which is connected to the limiting unit located on the second side. Both sets of synchronous connection components are connected to the extrusion mechanism, which is further configured to drive the two sets of synchronous connection components to approach or move away from each other along the second direction.

15. The busbar bending device according to claim 10, characterized in that, The busbar bending device also includes an avoidance drive source mounted on the base frame. The clamping mechanism and the extrusion mechanism are both connected to the power output end of the avoidance drive source. The avoidance drive source is configured to drive the clamping mechanism and the extrusion mechanism to move synchronously along a third direction, which is parallel to the width direction of the busbar.

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