Automatic processing line for battery cells

Abstract

The utility model discloses an automatic battery cell processing line, which comprises a first conveying mechanism, an OCV detection mechanism, a pole adjusting mechanism, a second conveying mechanism and an attaching mechanism, and is characterized in that the first conveying mechanism is used for receiving a to-be-processed battery cell and conveying the received battery cell to a detection station; the OCV detection mechanism is used for carrying out OCV detection on the battery cells on the detection station; the pole adjusting mechanism is in butt joint with the first conveying mechanism and the second conveying mechanism, and the pole adjusting mechanism is used for performing pole adjustment on the battery cell and then releasing the battery cell to the second conveying mechanism; the second conveying mechanism is used for receiving the battery cells released by the pole adjusting mechanism and conveying the received battery cells to an attaching station; according to the automatic battery cell processing line, after the pole adjusting mechanism takes away the battery cell from the temporary storage station, the first conveying mechanism can continue to work without waiting for completion of a subsequent pole adjusting procedure and an attaching procedure, and the production efficiency is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of lithium battery production equipment technology, and in particular relates to an automated cell processing line. Background Technology

[0002] A battery cell module is formed by stacking multiple battery cells. Before stacking multiple battery cells into a battery cell module, each battery cell needs to undergo OCV testing, terminal adjustment, and the attachment of separators or adhesive strips.

[0003] Existing processing lines typically use a single conveyor to transport battery cells in one direction, allowing them to pass through various processes sequentially, with each process performing one operation on the cell. While this automates cell processing, the dwell time of the cells at each process is usually determined by the longest-running process. Cells in other processes must wait until the longest-running process is completed. For example, the electrode adjustment process requires clamping the cell at the workstation, lifting and rotating it, and then placing it back on the conveyor. This results in a long adjustment time, and other processes must stop and wait until the electrode adjustment is complete. This leads to low cell processing efficiency and fails to meet the demands of today's high-efficiency production. Utility Model Content

[0004] The purpose of this application is to provide an automated battery cell processing line to solve the problem of low working efficiency in existing battery cell processing lines.

[0005] To achieve this objective, the following technical solution is adopted in this application:

[0006] This application proposes an automated battery cell processing line, which includes a first conveying mechanism, an OCV detection mechanism, an electrode adjustment mechanism, a second conveying mechanism, and an attachment mechanism, wherein:

[0007] The first conveying mechanism has a detection station and a temporary storage station set up sequentially on its conveying path. The first conveying mechanism is configured to receive the battery cells to be processed and convey the received battery cells to the detection station.

[0008] The OCV testing mechanism is set up at the testing station. The OCV testing mechanism is configured to perform OCV testing on the battery cells at the testing station. The first conveying mechanism is also configured to convey the battery cells after OCV testing to the temporary storage station.

[0009] The electrode adjustment mechanism is connected to the first conveying mechanism and the second conveying mechanism. The electrode adjustment mechanism is configured to pick up the battery cell on the temporary storage station, adjust the electrode of the battery cell, and then release it to the feeding station of the second conveying mechanism.

[0010] The second conveying mechanism is equipped with a bonding station on its conveying path. The second conveying mechanism is configured to receive the battery cells released by the electrode adjustment mechanism and convey the received battery cells to the bonding station.

[0011] The attaching mechanism is located at the attaching station and is configured to attach spacers and / or adhesive strips to the battery cells at the attaching station. The second conveying mechanism is also configured to convey the battery cells with attached spacers and / or adhesive strips to the next process.

[0012] The automated battery cell processing line proposed in this application, through the cooperation of a first conveying mechanism, an OCV detection mechanism, a terminal adjustment mechanism, a second conveying mechanism, and an attachment mechanism, achieves OCV detection of the battery cells and the attachment of spacers and / or adhesive strips onto the battery cells, resulting in a high degree of automation. Simultaneously, after the terminal adjustment mechanism removes a battery cell from the temporary storage station, the first conveying mechanism can continue operating without waiting for subsequent terminal adjustment and attachment processes to complete, thus improving production efficiency. The terminal adjustment mechanism can perform the terminal adjustment action while conveying the battery cell to the second conveying mechanism, shortening the terminal adjustment process time. After placing the adjusted battery cell at the feeding station of the second conveying mechanism, the terminal adjustment mechanism can return to the first conveying mechanism to retrieve the next battery cell without waiting, further improving production efficiency.

[0013] Optionally, the conveying paths of the first conveying mechanism and the second conveying mechanism both extend along the first direction, and the temporary storage station of the first conveying mechanism and the attachment station of the second conveying mechanism overlap in the first direction.

[0014] By setting the conveying paths of both the first and second conveying mechanisms to extend along the first direction, and setting the temporary storage station of the first conveying mechanism and the attachment station of the second conveying mechanism to overlap in the first direction, not only is the layout reasonable and the overall space occupied by the first and second conveying mechanisms shortened, but the cycle times of the OCV detection process and the pole adjustment process are also overlapped, further shortening the stepping cycle time and improving work efficiency.

[0015] Optionally, the feeding station and the temporary storage station are arranged opposite each other in a second direction, which is perpendicular to the first direction;

[0016] The pole adjustment mechanism includes a frame, a first drive mechanism, a transverse base, a lifting drive component, and a pole adjustment assembly, wherein:

[0017] The transverse slide is mounted on the frame in a way that allows it to reciprocate along a second direction. The fixed end of the first drive mechanism is mounted on the frame, and the drive end of the first drive mechanism is connected to the transverse slide. The first drive mechanism is configured to drive the transverse slide to reciprocate along the second direction.

[0018] The pole adjustment assembly is vertically mounted on the transverse base. The fixed end of the lifting drive is mounted on the transverse base. The driving end of the lifting drive is connected to the pole adjustment assembly. The lifting drive is configured to drive the pole adjustment assembly to lift. The pole adjustment assembly is configured to pick up or release the battery cell and to perform pole adjustment on the picked-up battery cell.

[0019] The first drive mechanism, in conjunction with the lifting drive component, drives the pole adjustment assembly to move to the temporary storage position, so as to pick up the battery cell on the temporary storage position through the pole adjustment assembly.

[0020] The first drive mechanism, in conjunction with the lifting drive component, drives the electrode adjustment assembly to move to the feeding station, so as to release the battery cell after electrode adjustment to the feeding station through the electrode adjustment assembly.

[0021] By cooperating with the first drive mechanism, the transverse seat, the lifting drive component, and the pole adjustment assembly, the pole adjustment assembly is moved to the temporary storage station and the feeding station by driving the pole adjustment assembly to move laterally and lift in the second direction. This provides a pole adjustment mechanism with a simple structure, high transfer efficiency, and stable and reliable operation.

[0022] Optionally, the pole adjustment assembly includes a support plate, a first rotary drive member, and a first clamping part, wherein:

[0023] The first rotary drive is mounted on the support plate, and the first clamping part is rotatably mounted on the support plate. The drive end of the first rotary drive is connected to the first clamping part, and the first clamping part is configured to clamp or release a first battery cell.

[0024] The first rotary drive is configured to drive the first clamping part to rotate 180° in order to perform pole adjustment on the first battery cell clamped by the first clamping part.

[0025] A first battery cell is clamped by a first clamping part, and a first rotation drive member drives the first clamping part to rotate, thereby realizing the pole adjustment of the first battery cell clamped by the first clamping part, providing a pole adjustment component with simple structure and high adjustment efficiency.

[0026] Optionally, the pole adjustment assembly further includes a base, a rotating cylinder, a second rotary drive, and a second clamping part, wherein:

[0027] The base is mounted on the drive end of the lifting drive component, and the rotating drum is rotatably mounted on the base via bearings. The drive end of the second rotating drive component is connected to the rotating drum, and the second rotating drive component is configured to drive the rotating drum to rotate.

[0028] The middle part of the support plate is horizontally installed at the bottom of the rotating drum. The first clamping part is rotatably installed at the first end of the support plate along the length of the support plate, and the second clamping part is rotatably installed at the second end of the support plate along the length of the support plate. The second clamping part is configured to clamp or release a first battery cell.

[0029] The first and second clamping parts are also configured to clamp a second battery cell.

[0030] By setting a first clamping part and a second clamping part on the support plate, the first clamping part and the second clamping part can rotate relative to the support plate. When it is necessary to simultaneously adjust the poles of two battery cells clamped by the first clamping part and the second clamping part, the second rotary drive component drives the support plate to rotate by a preset angle, thereby realizing the synchronous adjustment of the two battery cells. When it is necessary to adjust the poles of one battery cell clamped by the first clamping part, the first clamping part is rotated by the first rotary drive component, thereby realizing the pole adjustment of one battery cell clamped by the first clamping part. Moreover, the first clamping part and the second clamping part can be adapted to at least two specifications of battery cells, with good compatibility. Depending on different application scenarios, more clamping parts can also be set to realize the synchronous adjustment of three or more battery cells.

[0031] Optionally, the automated cell processing line may also include a third conveying mechanism, wherein:

[0032] The pole adjustment mechanism is also configured to release cells that fail the OCV test at the pick-up temporary storage station to the third conveying mechanism;

[0033] The third conveying mechanism is configured to receive the battery cells that fail the OCV test released by the pole adjustment mechanism and convey the received battery cells that fail the OCV test to the next process.

[0034] By coordinating the electrode adjustment mechanism and the third conveying mechanism, the automatic unloading of battery cells that fail the OCV test is achieved, thereby improving production efficiency.

[0035] Optionally, the OCV inspection mechanism includes a mounting bracket, a second drive mechanism, a moving part, and at least one set of inspection components, wherein:

[0036] The movable part can be installed on the mounting frame near or away from the testing station. The movable part is equipped with at least one testing position, and each testing position is equipped with a set of testing components. Each testing position corresponds to a battery cell to be tested.

[0037] The second drive mechanism is mounted on the mounting bracket. The drive end of the second drive mechanism is connected to the moving part. The second drive mechanism is configured to drive the moving part to move closer to or away from the inspection station.

[0038] The detection component includes a first probe and a second probe spaced apart along a first direction. A second driving mechanism drives a moving part to approach the detection station so that the first probe and the second probe can respectively contact the positive and negative terminals of the corresponding battery cell, thereby performing OCV detection on the battery cell.

[0039] The second driving mechanism drives the moving part to approach the testing station, and then the first and second probes contact the positive and negative terminals of the battery cell to measure the voltage difference between the positive and negative terminals of the battery cell in an open circuit state (i.e., no current flows inside the battery). This provides a simple structure and a stable and reliable OCV testing mechanism.

[0040] Optionally, the first conveying mechanism includes a first conveying line, several battery cell fixtures, and two sets of first unlocking mechanisms; the second conveying mechanism includes a second conveying line, several battery cell fixtures, and two sets of second unlocking mechanisms, wherein:

[0041] The first conveyor line has a loading station, an inspection station and a temporary storage station set up in sequence along its conveying path. The first conveyor line is configured to carry a number of battery cell fixtures and to convey the battery cell fixtures carried thereon in sequence to the loading station, the inspection station and the temporary storage station along the first direction.

[0042] Two sets of first unlocking mechanisms are respectively set on the side of the loading station and the temporary storage station. When the first conveyor line conveys several battery cell fixtures to the loading station, the first unlocking mechanism at the loading station is configured to open the battery cell fixtures at the loading station so as to receive the battery cells to be tested by OCV through the battery cell fixtures. When the first conveyor line conveys several battery cell fixtures to the temporary storage station, the first unlocking mechanism at the temporary storage station is configured to open the battery cell fixtures at the temporary storage station so as to release the battery cell fixtures from clamping the battery cells so as to remove the battery cells from the battery cell fixtures through the electrode adjustment mechanism.

[0043] The second conveyor line has a feeding station, an attachment station and an unloading station set up in sequence along its conveying path. The second conveyor line is configured to carry a number of battery cell fixtures and to convey the battery cell fixtures carried thereon in sequence to the feeding station, the attachment station and the unloading station along the first direction.

[0044] Two sets of second unlocking mechanisms are respectively set on the sides of the feeding station and the unloading station. When the second conveyor line conveys several battery cell fixtures to the feeding station, the second unlocking mechanism at the feeding station is configured to open the battery cell fixtures at the feeding station so as to receive the battery cells released by the electrode adjustment mechanism through the battery cell fixtures. When the second conveyor line conveys several battery cell fixtures to the unloading station, the second unlocking mechanism at the unloading station is configured to open the battery cell fixtures at the unloading station so as to release the battery cell fixtures from clamping the battery cells so as to remove the battery cells with spacers and / or adhesive strips attached to them by the conveying mechanism.

[0045] Through the cooperation of the first conveyor line, several cell fixtures, and two sets of first unlocking mechanisms, the battery cells to be tested under OCV are automatically received at the loading station and transported to the testing station and temporary storage station. Through the cooperation of the second conveyor line, several cell fixtures, and two sets of second unlocking mechanisms, the battery cells released by the electrode adjustment mechanism are automatically received at the feeding station and transported to the bonding station and unloading station.

[0046] Optionally, the battery cell fixture includes a first clamping assembly and a second clamping assembly spaced apart, wherein:

[0047] The first clamping assembly includes a first carrier, a first clamping member, and a second clamping member. The first carrier is configured to carry a single first battery cell. The first clamping member is disposed at a first end of the first carrier along a first direction. The second clamping member is elastically mounted at a second end of the first carrier along the first direction. The first clamping member and the second clamping member respectively abut against both ends of the first battery cell carried by the first carrier along the first direction to clamp the first battery cell on the first carrier.

[0048] The second clamping assembly includes a second carrier, a third clamping member, and a fourth clamping member. The bearing surfaces of the first carrier and the second carrier are at the same height. The second carrier is configured to carry a single first battery cell. The third clamping member is disposed close to the second clamping member and is elastically mounted on a first end of the second carrier along a first direction. The fourth clamping member is disposed on a second end of the second carrier along the first direction. The third clamping member and the fourth clamping member respectively abut against the two ends of the first battery cell carried by the second carrier along the first direction to clamp the first battery cell on the second carrier.

[0049] The first and second carriers are also configured to jointly support the second battery cell. The upper surface of the second clamping member is lowered no higher than the bearing surface of the first carrier and the upper surface of the third clamping member is lowered no higher than the bearing surface of the second carrier. The second battery cell is pressed against the first and second carriers at least. The first and fourth clamping members abut against the two ends of the second battery cell along the first direction to clamp the second battery cell on the first and second carriers.

[0050] By configuring the battery cell fixture to include a first clamping component and a second clamping component, the first clamping component and the second clamping component can each clamp a first battery cell individually, and the first clamping component and the second clamping component can also cooperate to clamp a second battery cell, thus enabling the battery cell fixture to adapt to two specifications of battery cells and improving the versatility of the battery cell fixture.

[0051] Optionally, the bonding mechanism includes an adhesive application mechanism and a film removal mechanism. The second conveying mechanism has a film removal station located after the bonding station on its conveying path. The adhesive application mechanism is located at the bonding station and is configured to apply spacers and / or adhesive strips to the battery cells at the bonding station. The film removal mechanism is configured to remove the release paper from the surface of the battery cells at the film removal station.

[0052] By setting up an adhesive applicator, the spacers and / or adhesive strips are automatically applied to the battery cells at the bonding station; by setting up a film-removing mechanism, the release paper on the surface of the battery cells with the spacers and / or adhesive strips applied is automatically removed, thus improving work efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0053] Figure 1 This is a top view schematic diagram of the automated cell processing line provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0054] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the automated cell processing line provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0055] Figure 3 This is an assembly schematic diagram of the electrode adjustment mechanism of the automated cell processing line provided in this application embodiment;

[0056] Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the electrode adjustment mechanism of the automated battery cell processing line provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0057] Figure 5 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the electrode adjustment assembly of the automated cell processing line provided in this application embodiment;

[0058] Figure 6 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the OCV detection mechanism of the automated cell processing line provided in this application embodiment;

[0059] Figure 7 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of another OCV detection mechanism in the automated cell processing line provided in this application embodiment.

[0060] Figures 1 to 7 The following reference numerals are included:

[0061] First conveying mechanism 10: Inspection station 11, temporary storage station 12, first conveyor line 13, loading station 14;

[0062] OCV inspection mechanism 20: mounting frame 21, second drive mechanism 22, moving part 23, inspection assembly 24, first probe 241, second probe 242, barcode scanner 25;

[0063] The pole adjustment mechanism 30 includes: frame 31, first drive mechanism 32, transverse seat 33, lifting drive component 34, pole adjustment assembly 35, support plate 350, first rotary drive component 351, first clamping part 352, base 353, rotating cylinder 354, second rotary drive component 355, and second clamping part 356.

[0064] Second conveying mechanism 40: feeding station 41, attaching station 42, second conveyor line 43, unloading station 44, film peeling station 45;

[0065] Attachment mechanism 50; Adhesive application mechanism 51; Film removal mechanism 52;

[0066] Cell 60: First cell 61, second cell 62;

[0067] Third conveying mechanism 70;

[0068] Battery cell fixture 80; first clamping assembly 81, first carrier 810, first clamping member 811, second clamping member 812, second clamping assembly 82, second carrier 820, third clamping member 821, fourth clamping member 822;

[0069] First unlocking mechanism 90, second unlocking mechanism 91. Detailed Implementation

[0070] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features and advantages of this application more apparent and understandable, the application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0071] A battery cell module is formed by stacking multiple battery cells. Before stacking multiple cells into a cell module, each cell needs to undergo OCV (Open Circuit Voltage) testing, terminal adjustment, and the attachment of separators or adhesive strips. Battery OCV testing is a method in battery performance testing, primarily used to measure the voltage difference between the positive and negative terminals of the battery in an open-circuit state (i.e., when no current flows inside the battery). This voltage value reflects the magnitude of the internal electromotive force of the battery and is a crucial fundamental data point for evaluating battery performance.

[0072] Existing processing lines typically use a single conveyor to transport battery cells in one direction, allowing them to pass through various processes sequentially, with each process performing one operation on the cell. While this automates cell processing, the dwell time of the cells at each process is usually determined by the longest-running process. Cells in other processes must wait until the longest-running process is completed. For example, the electrode adjustment process requires clamping the cell at the workstation, lifting and rotating it, and then placing it back on the conveyor. This results in a long adjustment time, and other processes must stop and wait until the electrode adjustment is complete. This leads to low cell processing efficiency and fails to meet the demands of today's high-efficiency production.

[0073] Therefore, this application proposes an automated cell processing line; please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 1 As shown, the automated battery cell processing line proposed in this embodiment includes a first conveying mechanism 10, an OCV detection mechanism 20, a terminal adjustment mechanism 30, a second conveying mechanism 40, and an attachment mechanism 50. The first conveying mechanism 10 has a detection station 11 and a temporary storage station 12 sequentially arranged along its conveying path. The first conveying mechanism 10 is configured to receive the battery cell 60 to be processed and convey the received battery cell to the detection station 11. The OCV detection mechanism 20 is located at the detection station 11 and is configured to perform OCV detection on the battery cell 60 at the detection station 11. The first conveying mechanism 10 is also configured to convey the battery cell 60 after OCV detection to the temporary storage station 12. The terminal adjustment mechanism 30... The electrode adjustment mechanism 30 is configured to pick up the battery cell 60 on the temporary storage station 12, adjust the electrode of the battery cell 60, and release it to the feeding station 41 of the second conveyor mechanism 40. The second conveyor mechanism 40 is provided with an attachment station 42 on its conveying path. The second conveyor mechanism 40 is configured to receive the battery cell 60 released by the electrode adjustment mechanism 30 and convey the received battery cell 60 to the attachment station 42. The attachment mechanism 50 is provided at the attachment station 42. The attachment mechanism 50 is configured to attach spacers and / or adhesive strips to the battery cell 60 at the attachment station 42. The second conveyor mechanism 40 is also configured to convey the battery cell 60 after attaching the spacers and / or adhesive strips to the next process.

[0074] The automated battery cell processing line proposed in this application, through the cooperation of a first conveying mechanism 10, an OCV detection mechanism 20, a terminal adjustment mechanism 30, a second conveying mechanism 40, and an attachment mechanism 50, achieves OCV detection of the battery cell 60 and the attachment of spacers and / or adhesive strips onto the battery cell 60, achieving a high degree of automation. Simultaneously, after the terminal adjustment mechanism 30 removes the battery cell 60 from the temporary storage station 12, the first conveying mechanism 10 can continue operating without waiting for subsequent terminal adjustment and attachment processes to complete, thus improving production efficiency. The terminal adjustment mechanism 30 can perform terminal adjustment while conveying the battery cell to the second conveying mechanism 40, shortening the terminal adjustment process time. After placing the adjusted battery cell 60 at the feeding station 41 of the second conveying mechanism 40, the terminal adjustment mechanism 30 can return to the first conveying mechanism 10 to retrieve the next battery cell 60 without waiting, further improving production efficiency.

[0075] In one embodiment, the conveying path of the first conveying mechanism 10 and the conveying path of the second conveying mechanism 40 are both along the first direction ( Figure 1 Extending in the X direction, the temporary storage station 12 of the first conveying mechanism 10 and the attachment station 42 of the second conveying mechanism 40 overlap in the first direction.

[0076] It can be seen that by setting the conveying paths of the first conveying mechanism 10 and the second conveying mechanism 40 to extend along the first direction, and setting the temporary storage station 12 of the first conveying mechanism 40 and the attachment station 42 of the second conveying mechanism 40 to overlap in the first direction, not only is the layout reasonable and the overall space occupied by the first conveying mechanism 10 and the second conveying mechanism 40 shortened, but also the cycle times of the OCV detection process and the pole adjustment process overlap, further shortening the stepping cycle time and improving work efficiency.

[0077] Please see Figures 1 to 5 As shown, in one embodiment, the feeding station 41 and the temporary storage station 12 are located in the second direction ( Figure 1The pole adjustment mechanism 30 includes a frame 31, a first drive mechanism 32, a transverse base 33, a lifting drive component 34, and a pole adjustment assembly 35. The transverse base 33 is reciprocally mounted on the frame 31 along the second direction. The fixed end of the first drive mechanism 32 is mounted on the frame 31, and the driving end of the first drive mechanism 32 is connected to the transverse base 33. The first drive mechanism 32 is configured to drive the transverse base 33 to reciprocate along the second direction. The pole adjustment assembly 35 is vertically mounted on the transverse base 33. The fixed end of the lifting drive component 34 is mounted on the transverse base 33. The driving end of the actuator 34 is connected to the electrode adjustment assembly 35. The lifting drive 34 is configured to drive the electrode adjustment assembly 35 to rise and fall. The electrode adjustment assembly 35 is configured to pick up or release the battery cell 60 and to perform electrode adjustment on the picked-up battery cell 60. The first drive mechanism 32 cooperates with the lifting drive 34 to drive the electrode adjustment assembly 35 to move to the temporary storage station 12 so as to pick up the battery cell 60 on the temporary storage station 12 through the electrode adjustment assembly 35. The first drive mechanism 32 cooperates with the lifting drive 34 to drive the electrode adjustment assembly 35 to move to the feeding station 41 so as to release the battery cell 60 after electrode adjustment to the feeding station 41 through the electrode adjustment assembly 35.

[0078] Specifically, the first drive mechanism 32 adopts a synchronous belt linear drive module, and the lifting drive component 34 adopts an electric cylinder or a pneumatic cylinder.

[0079] As can be seen, through the cooperation of the first drive mechanism 32, the transverse seat 33, the lifting drive component 34 and the pole adjustment assembly 35, the pole adjustment assembly 35 is moved to the temporary storage station 12 and the feeding station 41 by driving the pole adjustment assembly 35 to move laterally and lift in the second direction. This provides a pole adjustment mechanism 30 with simple structure, high transfer efficiency and stable and reliable operation.

[0080] In one embodiment, the electrode adjustment assembly 35 includes a support plate 350, a first rotary drive member 351, and a first clamping part 352. The first rotary drive member 351 is mounted on the support plate 350, and the first clamping part 352 is rotatably mounted on the support plate 350. The drive end of the first rotary drive member 351 is connected to the first clamping part 352. The first clamping part 352 is configured to clamp or release a first battery cell 61. The first rotary drive member 351 is configured to drive the first clamping part 352 to rotate 180° to perform electrode adjustment on the first battery cell 61 clamped by the first clamping part 352.

[0081] Specifically, the first rotary drive component 351 is a rotary cylinder or motor, and the first clamping part 352 is a pneumatic gripper.

[0082] As can be seen, by clamping a first battery cell with the first clamping part 352 and driving the first clamping part 352 to rotate with the first rotation drive 351, the first battery cell clamped by the first clamping part 352 is adjusted to achieve the pole adjustment, and a pole adjustment component 35 with simple structure and high adjustment efficiency is provided.

[0083] In one embodiment, the pole adjustment assembly 35 further includes a base 353, a rotating cylinder 354, a second rotary drive 355, and a second clamping part 356. The base 353 is mounted on the drive end of the lifting drive 34. The rotating cylinder 354 is rotatably mounted on the base 353 via a bearing. The drive end of the second rotary drive 355 is connected to the rotating cylinder 354, and the second rotary drive 355 is configured to drive the rotating cylinder 354 to rotate. The middle portion of the support plate 350 is horizontally mounted on the bottom of the rotating cylinder 354. The first clamping part 352 is rotatably mounted on the first end of the support plate 350 along the length direction of the support plate 350. The second clamping part 356 is mounted on the second end of the support plate 350 along the length direction of the support plate 350. The second clamping part 356 is configured to clamp or release a first battery cell. The first clamping part 352 and the second clamping part 356 are also configured to cooperate in clamping a second battery cell.

[0084] Specifically, the second rotary drive component 355 is a rotary module consisting of a motor and a synchronous belt drive assembly, and the second clamping part 356 is a pneumatic gripper.

[0085] As can be seen, by providing a first clamping part 352 and a second clamping part 356 on the support plate 350, the first clamping part 352 and the second clamping part 356 can rotate relative to the support plate 350. When it is necessary to adjust the pole position of the second battery cell clamped by the first clamping part 352 and the second clamping part 356, the second rotary drive 355 drives the support plate 350 to rotate 180°, thereby realizing the adjustment of the pole position of the second battery cell. When it is necessary to adjust the pole position of a first battery cell clamped by the first clamping part 352 alone, the first clamping part 352 is rotated by the first rotary drive 351, thereby realizing the adjustment of the pole position of the first battery cell clamped by the first clamping part 352. Moreover, the first clamping part 352 and the second clamping part 356 can adapt to two specifications of battery cells, with good compatibility. Depending on different application scenarios, more clamping parts can also be provided to realize the synchronous adjustment of three or more battery cells.

[0086] In one implementation, the automated cell processing line also includes a third conveying mechanism 70, and the terminal adjustment mechanism 30 is further configured to release the OCV-failed cells picked up from the temporary storage station 12 to the third conveying mechanism 70; the third conveying mechanism 70 is configured to receive the OCV-failed cells released by the terminal adjustment mechanism 30 and convey the received OCV-failed cells to the next process.

[0087] It can be seen that the automatic unloading of battery cells that fail the OCV test is achieved through the cooperation of the pole adjustment mechanism 30 and the third conveying mechanism 70, thereby improving production efficiency.

[0088] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, in one embodiment, the OCV testing mechanism 20 includes a mounting frame 21, a second driving mechanism 22, a moving part 23, and at least one set of testing components 24. The moving part 23 can be mounted on the mounting frame 21 near or away from the testing station 11. The moving part 23 is provided with at least one testing position, and each testing position is provided with a set of testing components 24. Each testing position corresponds to a battery cell 60 to be tested. The second driving mechanism 22 is mounted on the mounting frame 21, and the driving end of the second driving mechanism 22 is connected to the moving part 23. The second driving mechanism 22 is configured to drive the moving part 23 near or away from the testing station 11. The testing components 24 include a first probe 241 and a second probe 242 spaced apart along a first direction. The second driving mechanism 22 drives the moving part 23 near the testing station 11 so that the first probe 241 and the second probe 242 respectively contact the positive and negative terminals of the corresponding battery cell 60, thereby performing OCV testing on the battery cell 60.

[0089] Specifically, the second drive mechanism 22 includes several cylinders, and the moving part 23 includes several spaced trusses. Each cylinder corresponds to one truss, and the piston rod of the cylinder is connected to the corresponding truss. The cylinder is configured to drive the corresponding truss to lift and lower. Two adjacent trusses serve as a detection position. The first probe 241 and the second probe 242 are respectively installed on two adjacent trusses. The installation positions of the first probe 241 and the second probe 242 along the length direction of the corresponding truss are adjustable to adapt to different specifications of battery cells.

[0090] Specifically, the second drive mechanism 22 includes a cylinder, the moving part 23 includes a truss, the fixed end of the cylinder is connected to the mounting bracket 21, the piston rod of the cylinder is connected to the truss, the cylinder is configured to drive the truss to lift and lower, a detection position is provided on the truss, the first probe 241 and the second probe 242 are installed at intervals along the length of the truss, the installation positions of the first probe 241 and the second probe 242 along the length of the truss are adjustable, and a guide assembly consisting of a guide rod and a guide sleeve is provided between the truss and the mounting bracket 21 to ensure the smoothness of the truss lifting and lowering.

[0091] Specifically, the mounting bracket 21 is also equipped with a barcode scanner 25, which is configured to read information such as the serial number of the battery cell 60 in order to manage each battery cell online.

[0092] As can be seen, by driving the moving part 23 to approach the detection station 11 through the second driving mechanism 22, and then contacting the positive and negative terminals of the cell 60 through the first probe 241 and the second probe 242, the voltage difference between the positive and negative terminals of the cell 60 in the open circuit state (i.e. no current flows inside the battery) is measured, thus providing an OCV detection mechanism 20 with a simple structure and stable and reliable operation.

[0093] In one embodiment, the first conveying mechanism 10 includes a first conveying line 13, a plurality of battery cell fixtures 80, and two sets of first unlocking mechanisms 90. The second conveying mechanism 40 includes a second conveying line 43, a plurality of battery cell fixtures 80, and two sets of second unlocking mechanisms 91. A loading station 14, a testing station 11, and a temporary storage station 12 are sequentially arranged along the conveying path of the first conveying line 13. The first conveying line 13 is configured to carry a plurality of battery cell fixtures 80 and sequentially convey the carried battery cell fixtures 80 along a first direction to the loading station 14, the testing station 11, and the temporary storage station 12. Two sets of first unlocking mechanisms 90 are respectively set on the sides of the loading station 14 and the temporary storage station 12. When the first conveyor line 13 conveys several battery cell fixtures 80 to the loading station 14, the first unlocking mechanism 90 at the loading station 14 is configured to open the battery cell fixtures 80 on the loading station 14 so as to receive the battery cells 60 to be subjected to OCV testing through the battery cell fixtures 80. When the first conveyor line 13 conveys several battery cell fixtures 80 to the temporary storage station 12, the first unlocking mechanism 90 at the temporary storage station 12 is configured to open the battery cell fixtures 80 on the temporary storage station 12 so that the battery cell fixtures 60 can be opened. 80 releases the clamp on the battery cell 60 so that the battery cell 60 can be removed from the battery cell fixture 80 by the electrode adjustment mechanism 30; the second conveyor line 43 is provided with a feeding station 41, an attachment station 42 and a unloading station 44 in sequence along its conveying path. The second conveyor line 43 is configured to carry a number of battery cell fixtures 80 and to convey the carried battery cell fixtures 80 in sequence along the first direction to the feeding station 41, the attachment station 42 and the unloading station 44; two sets of second unlocking mechanisms 91 are respectively set on the sides of the feeding station 41 and the unloading station 44. The second conveyor line 43 conveys a number of battery cell fixtures... When the battery cell fixture 80 arrives at the feeding station 41, the second unlocking mechanism 91 at the feeding station 41 is configured to open the battery cell fixture 80 on the feeding station 41 so as to receive the battery cell 60 released by the electrode adjustment mechanism 30 through the battery cell fixture 80. When the second conveyor line 43 conveys several battery cell fixtures 80 to the unloading station 44, the second unlocking mechanism 91 at the unloading station 44 is configured to open the battery cell fixture 80 on the unloading station 44 so as to release the battery cell 60 from the clamping of the battery cell fixture 80 so as to remove the battery cell 60 with the attached spacer and / or adhesive strip on the battery cell fixture 80 by the conveying mechanism.

[0094] As can be seen, through the cooperation of the first conveyor line 13, several cell fixtures 80 and two sets of first unlocking mechanisms 90, the battery cell 60 to be tested under OCV is automatically received at the loading station 14 and transported to the testing station 11 and the temporary storage station 12. Through the cooperation of the second conveyor line 43, several cell fixtures 80 and two sets of second unlocking mechanisms 91, the battery cell released by the electrode adjustment mechanism 30 is automatically received at the feeding station 41 and transported to the attaching station 42 and the unloading station 44.

[0095] In one embodiment, the battery cell fixture 80 includes a first clamping assembly 81 and a second clamping assembly 82 spaced apart. The first clamping assembly 81 includes a first carrier 810, a first clamping member 811, and a second clamping member 812. The first carrier 810 is configured to carry a single first battery cell 61. The first clamping member 811 is disposed at a first end of the first carrier 812 along a first direction. The second clamping member 812 is elastically mounted at a second end of the first carrier 810 along the first direction. The first clamping member 811 and the second clamping member 812 respectively abut against both ends of the first battery cell 61 carried by the first carrier 810 along the first direction to clamp the first battery cell 61 on the first carrier 810. The second clamping assembly 82 includes a second carrier 820, a third clamping member 821, and a fourth clamping member 822. The bearing surfaces of the first carrier 810 and the second carrier 820 are at the same height. The second carrier 820 is configured to carry a single first battery cell 61. The third clamping member 821 is close to the second carrier 820. A holding member 812 is provided, a third clamping member 821 is elastically mounted on the first end of the second carrier member 820 along the first direction, and a fourth clamping member 822 is provided on the second end of the second carrier member 820 along the first direction. The third clamping member 821 and the fourth clamping member 822 respectively abut against the two ends of the first battery cell 61 carried by the second carrier member 820 along the first direction to clamp the first battery cell 61 on the second carrier member 820. The first carrier member 810 and the second carrier member 820 are also configured to jointly carry the second battery cell 62. The upper surface of the second clamping member 812 is lowered no higher than the bearing surface of the first carrier member 810 and the upper surface of the third clamping member 821 is lowered no higher than the bearing surface of the second carrier member 820. The second battery cell 62 is at least pressed against the first carrier member 810 and the second carrier member 820. The first clamping member 811 and the fourth clamping member 822 respectively abut against the two ends of the second battery cell 62 along the first direction to clamp the second battery cell 62 on the first carrier member 810 and the second carrier member 820.

[0096] As can be seen, by configuring the battery cell fixture 80 to include a first clamping component 81 and a second clamping component 82, the first clamping component 81 and the second clamping component 82 can each clamp a first battery cell 61 individually, and the first clamping component 81 and the second clamping component 82 can also cooperate to clamp a second battery cell 62, thus enabling the battery cell fixture 80 to adapt to two specifications of battery cells and improving the versatility of the battery cell fixture 80.

[0097] In one embodiment, the attaching mechanism 50 includes an adhesive applicator 51 and a film-removing mechanism 52. A film-removing station 45 is provided on the conveying path of the second conveying mechanism 40, located after the attaching station 42. The adhesive applicator 51 is located at the attaching station 42 and is configured to attach spacers and / or adhesive strips to the battery cell 60 at the attaching station 42. The film-removing mechanism 52 is configured to remove the release paper from the surface of the battery cell 60 at the film-removing station 45.

[0098] As can be seen, by setting up the adhesive applicator 51, the spacer and / or adhesive strip are automatically applied to the battery cell 60 at the application station 42; by setting up the film peeling mechanism 52, the release paper on the surface of the battery cell 60 with the spacer and / or adhesive strip is automatically peeled off, thus improving work efficiency.

[0099] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the general working principle of the above-mentioned automated battery cell processing line is as follows:

[0100] S1, the first conveyor line 13 conveys the battery cell 60 received at the loading station 14 to the testing station 11;

[0101] S2, OCV testing unit 20 performs OCV testing on battery cell 60 at testing station 11;

[0102] S3, the first conveyor line 13 conveys the battery cell 60 that has completed OCV testing at the testing station 11 to the temporary storage station 12;

[0103] S4, the electrode adjustment mechanism 30 picks up the battery cell 60 on the temporary storage station 12 and performs electrode adjustment on the battery cell 60 before releasing it to the feeding station 41 of the second conveying mechanism 40;

[0104] S5, the second conveyor line 43 conveys the battery cell 60 at the feeding station 41 to the attaching station 42;

[0105] S6, the attaching mechanism 51 automatically attaches the spacer and / or adhesive strip to the battery cell 60 at the attaching station 42;

[0106] S7, the second conveyor line 43 conveys the battery cells that have been attached with spacers and / or adhesive strips at the attachment station 42 to the film peeling station 45;

[0107] S8, the film-tearing mechanism 52 peels off the release paper from the surface of the battery cell 60 on the film-tearing station 45;

[0108] S9, the second conveyor line 43 transports the battery cell 60, which has completed the film removal at the film removal station 45, to the unloading station 44.

[0109] The automated cell processing line proposed in this application has the following advantages:

[0110] 1) After the electrode adjustment mechanism takes the battery cell from the temporary storage station, the first conveying mechanism can continue to work without waiting for the subsequent electrode adjustment and attachment processes to be completed, thus improving production efficiency.

[0111] 2) The electrode adjustment mechanism can perform the electrode adjustment action while sending the battery cell to the second conveying mechanism, which shortens the electrode adjustment process time. After the electrode adjustment mechanism places the adjusted battery cell at the feeding station of the second conveying mechanism, it can return to the first conveying mechanism to pick up the next battery cell without waiting, which further improves production efficiency.

[0112] 3) The overlapping of the OCV testing process and the pole adjustment process further shortens the stepping cycle time and improves work efficiency;

[0113] 4) The pole adjustment mechanism has high adjustment efficiency and good compatibility;

[0114] 5) The cell fixture has good compatibility and can be adapted to at least two sizes of cells.

[0115] The above embodiments merely illustrate the basic principles and characteristics of this application. This application is not limited to the above examples. Various changes and modifications can be made to this application without departing from the spirit and scope thereof, and all such changes and modifications fall within the scope of this application as claimed. The scope of protection of this application is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An automated cell processing line, characterized by, The automated cell processing line includes a first conveying mechanism, an OCV detection mechanism, an electrode adjustment mechanism, a second conveying mechanism, and an attachment mechanism, wherein: The first conveying mechanism has a detection station and a temporary storage station arranged sequentially on its conveying path. The first conveying mechanism is configured to receive the battery cells to be processed and convey the received battery cells to the detection station. The OCV testing mechanism is located at the testing station and is configured to perform OCV testing on the battery cells at the testing station. The first conveying mechanism is also configured to convey the battery cells after OCV testing to the temporary storage station. The electrode adjustment mechanism is connected to the first conveying mechanism and the second conveying mechanism. The electrode adjustment mechanism is configured to pick up the battery cell on the temporary storage station, adjust the electrode of the battery cell, and then release it to the feeding station of the second conveying mechanism. The second conveying mechanism has an attachment station on its conveying path. The second conveying mechanism is configured to receive the battery cell released by the electrode adjustment mechanism and convey the received battery cell to the attachment station. The attaching mechanism is located at the attaching station and is configured to attach spacers and / or adhesive strips to the battery cells at the attaching station. The second conveying mechanism is further configured to convey the battery cells with attached spacers and / or adhesive strips to the next process.

2. The automated battery cell processing line of claim 1, wherein, The conveying paths of the first conveying mechanism and the second conveying mechanism both extend along a first direction, and the temporary storage station of the first conveying mechanism and the attachment station of the second conveying mechanism overlap in the first direction.

3. The automated battery cell processing line of claim 2, wherein, The feeding station and the temporary storage station are arranged opposite each other in a second direction, which is perpendicular to the first direction on a horizontal plane. The pole adjustment mechanism includes a frame, a first drive mechanism, a transverse seat, a lifting drive component, and a pole adjustment assembly, wherein: The transverse sliding seat is reciprocally mounted on the frame in a second direction. The fixed end of the first drive mechanism is mounted on the frame, and the drive end of the first drive mechanism is connected to the transverse sliding seat. The first drive mechanism is configured to drive the transverse sliding seat to reciprocate in the second direction. The electrode adjustment assembly is vertically and flexibly mounted on the transverse base. The fixed end of the lifting drive is mounted on the transverse base. The driving end of the lifting drive is connected to the electrode adjustment assembly. The lifting drive is configured to drive the electrode adjustment assembly to move up and down. The electrode adjustment assembly is configured to pick up or release the battery cell and to perform electrode adjustment on the picked-up battery cell. The first driving mechanism, in conjunction with the lifting driving component, drives the electrode adjustment assembly to move to the temporary storage position, so as to pick up the battery cell on the temporary storage position through the electrode adjustment assembly; The first driving mechanism, in conjunction with the lifting driving component, drives the electrode adjustment assembly to move to the feeding station, so as to release the battery cell after electrode adjustment to the feeding station through the electrode adjustment assembly.

4. The battery cell automated processing line of claim 3, wherein, The pole adjustment assembly includes a support plate, a first rotary drive component, and a first clamping part, wherein: The first rotary drive is mounted on the support plate, the first clamping part is rotatably mounted on the support plate, the drive end of the first rotary drive is connected to the first clamping part, the first clamping part is configured to clamp or release a first battery cell, and the first rotary drive is configured to drive the first clamping part to rotate 180°.

5. The battery cell automated processing line of claim 4, wherein, The pole adjustment assembly further includes a base, a rotating cylinder, a second rotary drive, and a second clamping part, wherein: The base is mounted on the drive end of the lifting drive component, the rotating drum is rotatably mounted on the base via a bearing, the drive end of the second rotation drive component is connected to the rotating drum, and the second rotation drive component is configured to drive the rotating drum to rotate. The middle portion of the support plate is horizontally mounted on the bottom of the rotating drum. The first clamping part is rotatably mounted on the first end of the support plate along the length direction of the support plate. The second clamping part is mounted on the second end of the support plate along the length direction of the support plate. The second clamping part is configured to clamp or release a first battery cell. The first clamping part and the second clamping part are also configured to cooperate in clamping a second battery cell.

6. The battery cell automated handling line of claim 1, wherein, The automated cell processing line also includes a third conveying mechanism, wherein: The electrode adjustment mechanism is also configured to release the battery cells that fail the OCV test at the temporary storage station to the third conveying mechanism. The third conveying mechanism is configured to receive the battery cells that fail the OCV test released by the pole adjustment mechanism and convey the received battery cells that fail the OCV test to the next process.

7. The battery cell automated handling line of claim 1, wherein, The OCV detection mechanism includes a mounting frame, a second drive mechanism, a moving component, and at least one set of detection components, wherein: The movable component can be installed on the mounting frame near or away from the testing station. The movable component is provided with at least one testing position. Each testing position is provided with a set of testing components. Each testing position corresponds to a battery cell to be tested. The second drive mechanism is mounted on the mounting bracket, and the drive end of the second drive mechanism is connected to the moving part. The second drive mechanism is configured to drive the moving part to move closer to or away from the detection station. The detection component includes a first probe and a second probe spaced apart along a first direction. The second driving mechanism drives the moving part to approach the detection station so that the first probe and the second probe respectively contact the positive and negative terminals of the corresponding battery cell, thereby performing OCV detection on the battery cell.

8. The battery cell automated handling line of claim 1, wherein, The first conveying mechanism includes a first conveying line, several battery cell fixtures, and two sets of first unlocking mechanisms; the second conveying mechanism includes a second conveying line, several battery cell fixtures, and two sets of second unlocking mechanisms, wherein: The first conveyor line has a loading station, an inspection station and a temporary storage station arranged sequentially on its conveying path. The first conveyor line is configured to carry a plurality of battery cell fixtures and to convey the plurality of battery cell fixtures carried thereon sequentially to the loading station, the inspection station and the temporary storage station along a first direction. Two sets of the first unlocking mechanisms are respectively set on the sides of the loading station and the temporary storage station. When the first conveyor line conveys several of the battery cell fixtures to the loading station, the first unlocking mechanism at the loading station is configured to open the battery cell fixtures at the loading station so as to receive the battery cells to be tested by OCV through the battery cell fixtures. When the first conveyor line conveys several of the battery cell fixtures to the temporary storage station, the first unlocking mechanism at the temporary storage station is configured to open the battery cell fixtures at the temporary storage station so as to release the battery cell fixtures from clamping the battery cells so as to remove the battery cells from the battery cell fixtures through the electrode adjustment mechanism. The second conveyor line is provided with the feeding station, the attaching station and the unloading station in sequence along the conveying path. The second conveyor line is configured to carry a plurality of the battery cell fixtures and to convey the plurality of the battery cell fixtures in sequence along the first direction to the feeding station, the attaching station and the unloading station. Two sets of the second unlocking mechanisms are respectively installed on the sides of the feeding station and the unloading station. When the second conveyor line conveys several of the battery cell fixtures to the feeding station, the second unlocking mechanism at the feeding station is configured to open the battery cell fixtures at the feeding station so as to receive the battery cells released by the electrode adjustment mechanism through the battery cell fixtures. When the second conveyor line conveys several of the battery cell fixtures to the unloading station, the second unlocking mechanism at the unloading station is configured to open the battery cell fixtures at the unloading station so as to release the battery cell fixtures from clamping the battery cells so as to remove the battery cells with spacers and / or adhesive strips attached to them by the conveying mechanism.

9. The battery cell automated handling line of claim 8, wherein, The battery cell fixture includes a first clamping assembly and a second clamping assembly spaced apart, wherein: The first clamping assembly includes a first carrier, a first clamping member, and a second clamping member. The first carrier is configured to carry a single first battery cell. The first clamping member is disposed at a first end of the first carrier along a first direction. The second clamping member is elastically mounted at a second end of the first carrier along the first direction. The first clamping member and the second clamping member respectively abut against the two ends of the first battery cell carried by the first carrier along the first direction to clamp the first battery cell on the first carrier. The second clamping assembly includes a second carrier, a third clamping member, and a fourth clamping member. The first carrier and the second carrier have the same height on their bearing surfaces. The second carrier is configured to carry a single first battery cell. The third clamping member is disposed close to the second clamping member and is elastically mounted on a first end of the second carrier along the first direction. The fourth clamping member is disposed on a second end of the second carrier along the first direction. The third clamping member and the fourth clamping member respectively abut against the two ends of the first battery cell carried by the second carrier along the first direction to clamp the first battery cell on the second carrier. The first and second carriers are also configured to jointly support the second battery cell. The upper surface of the second clamping member is not higher than the bearing surface of the first carrier and the upper surface of the third clamping member is not higher than the bearing surface of the second carrier. The second battery cell is pressed against the first and second carriers. The first clamping member and the fourth clamping member abut against the two ends of the second battery cell along the first direction to clamp the second battery cell on the first and second carriers.

10. The battery cell automated handling line of claim 1, wherein, The attaching mechanism includes an adhesive applicator and a film-removing mechanism. A film-removing station is located downstream of the attaching station on the conveying path of the second conveying mechanism. The adhesive applicator is located at the attaching station and is configured to attach spacers and / or adhesive strips to the battery cell at the attaching station. The film-removing mechanism is configured to remove the release paper from the surface of the battery cell at the film-removing station.

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