Battery clamp air path structure and battery processing device
By coordinating the clamping structure, exhaust throttle valve, and solenoid valve, the problem of battery falling due to power source failure is solved, and automatic clamping force is maintained when power or gas is cut off, thus improving the safety of new energy battery production.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- HUIZHOU DESAY INTELLIGENT ENERGY STORAGE CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-07-04
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-23
AI Technical Summary
In the automated production of new energy batteries such as lithium batteries, the failure of the power source can lead to the loss of battery clamping force, causing a risk of falling and posing a safety hazard. Existing countermeasures are either delayed or costly.
The system employs a clamping structure, a first exhaust throttle valve, and a solenoid valve for coordinated control. It utilizes a one-way guide valve and a dual-coil solenoid valve to maintain clamping force when power or gas is cut off. Through the coordinated action of the air circuit components, a closed pressure-maintaining circuit is formed to ensure the clamping state.
In the event of a sudden power or gas outage, the system automatically maintains clamping force to prevent the battery from falling, reducing the risk of safety accidents such as electrolyte leakage and short circuit fires, and improving the inherent safety of the production line.
Smart Images

Figure CN224390892U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to the field of battery manufacturing technology, specifically to a battery clamp air circuit structure and a battery processing device. Background Technology
[0002] In recent years, pneumatic gripper mechanisms have been widely used in the automated production and assembly lines of new energy batteries such as lithium batteries and power batteries for battery transfer, positioning, and assembly processes due to their low cost, fast response, and simple structure. Traditional solutions typically use solenoid valves to control cylinders to drive grippers to perform the gripping and releasing operations on batteries (especially prismatic cells and pouch cells).
[0003] However, this technology presents significant safety hazards in practical applications: when a sudden power outage occurs on the production line, the air supply line leaks, or the air pressure drops sharply, the cylinder will instantly lose pressure and clamping force, causing the battery on the gripper to fall uncontrollably. Because batteries (especially charged lithium-ion batteries) have high energy density, the impact of a fall can easily trigger the following chain of risks:
[0004] (1) The battery casing is deformed or cracked, resulting in electrolyte leakage, which contaminates the equipment and may corrode precision components;
[0005] (2) The electrode / tab is short-circuited by force, and the instantaneous large current discharge causes thermal runaway;
[0006] (3) The internal diaphragm was punctured, causing the positive and negative electrodes to come into contact and ignite and explode.
[0007] Existing countermeasures (such as adding mechanical self-locking devices or backup gas tanks) have obvious limitations: the mechanical self-locking structure has a delayed response and cannot be triggered in time in millisecond-level gas outage accidents; the backup gas source system is expensive and occupies production line space, and still cannot completely avoid the risk of sudden complete gas outage; sensor monitoring solutions (such as air pressure detection) can only trigger alarm shutdown and cannot actively maintain clamping force.
[0008] Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop a safety mechanism that can maintain the battery clamping state even under power / gas outage conditions, fundamentally solving the battery drop accident caused by power source failure and improving the inherent safety level of the production line. Summary of the Invention
[0009] In view of the above problems, this utility model provides a battery clamp air circuit structure and a battery processing device to solve the problem of battery falling accidents caused by power source failure in the existing solution.
[0010] In a first aspect, this utility model provides a battery clamp pneumatic circuit structure, including:
[0011] The clamping structure has a clamping vent end and a releasing vent end, and the clamping structure is used to clamp the battery.
[0012] The first exhaust throttle valve is provided with a first connecting end, a second connecting end and a third connecting end. The first connecting end is connected to the clamping venting end. The first exhaust throttle valve is provided with a one-way guide valve so that the second connecting end can unidirectionally guide the air into the first connecting end, and the first connecting end can vent to the second connecting end when the third connecting end is venting.
[0013] The system includes a solenoid valve with a first coil and a second coil on each side. The solenoid valve also includes an air inlet, a positive air outlet, a negative air outlet, a positive exhaust outlet, and a negative exhaust outlet. The positive air outlet is connected to the second connection end, and the negative air outlet is connected to the third connection end and the release vent end. The first coil is used to control the air inlet to be connected to the positive air outlet or the positive exhaust outlet, and the second coil is used to control the air inlet to be connected to the negative air outlet or the negative exhaust outlet.
[0014] In some optional embodiments, a second exhaust throttle valve is also included, which is provided with a fourth connection end and a fifth connection end. The fourth connection end is connected to the release vent end, and the fifth connection end is connected to the third connection end and the back exhaust port.
[0015] In some optional embodiments, the clamping structure is provided with a first clamping arm and a second clamping arm. When the clamping structure is inflated, the first clamping arm and the second clamping arm move toward each other and form a clamping space.
[0016] In some alternative embodiments, the first clamping arm is provided with a first protrusion, the second clamping arm is provided with a second protrusion, and the first protrusion and the second protrusion are disposed opposite to each other.
[0017] In some alternative embodiments, the positive exhaust port is connected to the first exhaust muffler and exhausts gas outward through the first exhaust muffler.
[0018] In some alternative embodiments, the reverse exhaust port is connected to a second exhaust muffler and exhausts gas outward through the second exhaust muffler.
[0019] In some alternative embodiments, the air inlet is connected to an air pump.
[0020] In some alternative embodiments, the first coil is provided with a first power terminal connected to a power supply, and the second coil is provided with a second power terminal connected to a power supply.
[0021] In some alternative embodiments, the solenoid valve is a two-position five-way double-coil solenoid valve.
[0022] Secondly, this utility model provides a battery processing device, including the above-mentioned battery clamp air passage structure, and clamps and transfers the battery through the battery clamp air passage structure.
[0023] This utility model provides a battery clamp pneumatic circuit structure and a battery processing device. Its advantages are as follows: The battery clamp pneumatic circuit structure of this utility model includes a clamping structure, a first exhaust throttle valve and a solenoid valve. Through the coordinated control of the solenoid valve and the first exhaust throttle valve, the internal air pressure of the clamping structure is maintained by the one-way valve when the power or gas is cut off, ensuring that the clamping force is not lost. It has the advantage of automatically maintaining the clamping state when the power or gas is suddenly cut off, avoiding the safety risks caused by the battery falling.
[0024] The above description is merely an overview of the technical solution of this utility model. In order to better understand the technical means of this utility model embodiment, it can be implemented according to the contents of the specification. In order to make the above and other objects, features and advantages of this utility model embodiment more obvious and understandable, specific embodiments of this utility model are given below. Attached Figure Description
[0025] The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Furthermore, the same reference numerals denote the same parts throughout the drawings. In the drawings:
[0026] Figure 1 This invention provides a schematic diagram of the air circuit structure of the battery clamp according to Embodiment 1.
[0027] Figure 2 This invention provides a schematic diagram of the air circuit structure of the battery clamp according to Embodiment 2.
[0028] Figure 3 The diagram shows the operation of the air circuit structure of the battery clamp provided in Embodiment 3 of this utility model.
[0029] Figure label:
[0030] SW1, Solenoid valve; SW2, First exhaust throttle valve; SW3, Second exhaust throttle valve; 100, Clamping structure; 110, First clamping arm; 120, Second clamping arm; 200, Air pump; 300, First exhaust muffler; 400, Second exhaust muffler; SW1_a, Air inlet; SW1_b, Positive exhaust port; SW1_d, Reverse exhaust port; SW1_c, Positive exhaust port; SW1_e, Reverse exhaust port; SW2_a, First connecting end; SW2_b, Second connecting end; SW2_c, Third connecting end; SW3_a, Fourth connecting end; SW4_b, Fifth connecting end; 100_a, Clamping vent end; 100_b, Loosening vent end; Out1, First power supply end; Out2, Second power supply end. Detailed Implementation
[0031] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Although exemplary embodiments of the present invention are shown in the drawings, it should be understood that the present invention may be implemented in various forms and should not be limited to the embodiments set forth herein.
[0032] Example 1:
[0033] Figure 1 This invention illustrates a first embodiment of the battery clamp pneumatic circuit structure, a safety mechanism that maintains battery clamping even under power / gas outage conditions, fundamentally solving battery drop accidents caused by power source failure and improving the intrinsic safety level of the production line. Specifically, the battery clamp pneumatic circuit structure includes a clamping structure, a first exhaust throttle valve SW2, and a solenoid valve SW1. The clamping structure has a clamping vent end 100_a and a releasing vent end 100_b for performing battery clamping actions. The first exhaust throttle valve SW2 has three connection ends. Its first connection end SW2_a connects to the clamping vent end 100_a, and an internal one-way valve enables one-way airflow from the second connection end SW2_b to the first connection end SW2_a. When the third connection end SW2_c is vented, it allows airflow from the first connection end SW2_a to the second connection end SW2_b. The solenoid valve SW1 is equipped with two sets of coil-controlled air passages. Its positive air outlet SW1_b is connected to the second connection end SW2_b of the first exhaust throttle valve SW2, and its negative air outlet SW1_d is connected to both the third connection end SW2_c and the release vent end 100_b.
[0034] In this embodiment, the clamping structure refers to an actuator that generates clamping force through pneumatic drive. Specifically, it can be a cylinder-driven gripper structure, with its clamping vent 100_a and releasing vent 100_b corresponding to the air ports on both sides of the piston chamber of the cylinder, respectively. This structure achieves the opening and closing action of the gripper through bidirectional pneumatic control.
[0035] The first exhaust throttle valve SW2 refers to a valve body with unidirectional airflow control function. Specifically, it can adopt a structure combining a built-in one-way valve and a throttle orifice. The unidirectional valve allows gas to flow from the second connection end SW2_b to the first connection end SW2_a, while reverse flow requires air pressure to be applied through the third connection end SW2_c. When the power is off, the valve body closes and clamps the air passage to prevent pressure loss.
[0036] Solenoid valve SW1 refers to a two-position five-way valve controlled by dual coils. Specifically, it can be a dual-electro-controlled solenoid valve SW1. The first coil controls the connection between the air inlet port SW1_a and the positive air outlet port SW1_b or the positive exhaust port SW1_c, while the second coil independently controls the connection between the air inlet port SW1_a and the reverse air outlet port SW1_d or the reverse exhaust port SW1_e. This design ensures that the valve core position is maintained when power is off, thus preserving the air passage status.
[0037] Specifically, during normal operation, the first coil of solenoid valve SW1 is energized, connecting the inlet port SW1_a to the outlet port SW1_b. Compressed air enters the clamping vent 100_a via the first exhaust throttle valve SW2, driving the clamping mechanism. When a power outage occurs, solenoid valve SW1 maintains the current air path state, forming a closed loop in the clamping end air path, with air pressure maintained by the one-way valve. If an air outage occurs, the residual air pressure at the clamping end is locked by the one-way valve to prevent pressure leakage. When it is necessary to release the clamp, the second coil is energized, connecting the inlet port SW1_a to the outlet port SW1_d. Compressed air simultaneously enters the release vent 100_b and the third connection port SW2_c, pushing the first exhaust throttle valve SW2 to open the pressure relief channel.
[0038] Compared with existing technologies, traditional solutions rely on backup power or mechanical locking devices, resulting in response delays and structural complexity. This solution, through the synergistic action of pneumatic components, automatically forms a closed pressure-maintaining circuit in the event of power or gas failure, eliminating the need for additional control signals or backup power, thus achieving true passive safety protection.
[0039] Through the above technical solution, this utility model can maintain the closed state of the clamping air passage when the power or air supply is interrupted, preventing cylinder pressure leakage and ensuring that the grippers maintain clamping force for at least 30 minutes. This feature effectively prevents safety accidents such as electrolyte leakage and short circuit fire caused by battery depressurization and falling, and solves the inherent safety problem of clamping operations in new energy battery production lines.
[0040] Example 2:
[0041] Based on Example 1, Figure 2 A second embodiment of the battery clamp air passage structure of this embodiment is shown. This utility model further proposes to provide a second exhaust throttle valve SW3 between the release vent 100_b and the back exhaust port SW1_e. This throttle valve has a fourth connecting end SW3_a and a fifth connecting end SW4_b. The fourth connecting end SW3_a is connected to the release vent 100_b, and the fifth connecting end SW4_b is connected to the third connecting end SW2_c and the back exhaust port SW1_e.
[0042] In this embodiment, the second exhaust throttle valve SW3 refers to a flow control element installed in the release air path. Specifically, it can be implemented using a valve body structure with an adjustable throttle orifice, controlling the gas flow rate by adjusting the opening of the throttle orifice. The fourth connection end SW3_a is the port directly connected to the release air vent end 100_b of the clamping structure, and the fifth connection end SW4_b is the port connected to the reverse exhaust port SW1_e and the third connection end SW2_c of the first exhaust throttle valve SW2, forming a bidirectional airflow channel.
[0043] Specifically, when the clamping structure needs to be released, the fourth connection end SW3_a of the second exhaust throttle valve SW3 receives airflow from the release vent end 100_b, and the fifth connection end SW4_b directs the airflow to the third connection end SW2_c and the back exhaust port SW1_e. During this process, the throttling effect of the second exhaust throttle valve SW3 limits the gas discharge speed in the release air path, preventing sudden depressurization of the air path from causing the clamping arm to quickly loosen. In the event of a sudden gas or power outage, the second exhaust throttle valve SW3 and the first exhaust throttle valve SW2 work together to control the system, limiting the rapid loss of residual gas in the clamping and release air paths through dual throttling, thereby maintaining the effective pressure in the clamping air path and preventing the clamping arm from losing its clamping force due to instantaneous depressurization.
[0044] Compared with existing technologies, the traditional solution lacks a flow control element in the release air path, causing a sudden drop in air pressure when power or air supply is interrupted, as the release air path directly connects to the atmosphere. This solution, by adding a second exhaust throttle valve SW3 to the release air path, constructs a bidirectional throttling control system. This ensures that both the clamping and release air paths maintain a controllable air pressure decay rate under sudden operating conditions, overcoming the pressure imbalance defect of unilateral throttling control.
[0045] Through the above technical solution, this utility model effectively solves the problem of clamping failure caused by the instantaneous pressure relief of the airflow at the vent 100_b when the power and gas are cut off. By maintaining the pressure balance of the air circuit system through bidirectional throttling control, it ensures that the clamping mechanism can still maintain an effective clamping state after the power source fails, and avoids the battery falling due to a sudden drop in clamping force.
[0046] In some optional embodiments, the present invention further proposes that the clamping structure is provided with a first clamping arm 110 and a second clamping arm 120. When the clamping structure is inflated, the first clamping arm 110 and the second clamping arm 120 move toward each other and form a clamping space.
[0047] In this embodiment, the first clamping arm 110 is a rigid component that generates clamping action through pneumatic drive. It can be made of aluminum alloy or engineering plastic, and its end has a contact surface to adapt to the battery's shape. The second clamping arm 120 is a rigid component symmetrically arranged with the first clamping arm 110, and the two are linked through pneumatic synchronous control. Opposite movement means that the first clamping arm 110 and the second clamping arm 120 move simultaneously in opposite directions under pneumatic drive, specifically achieved through bidirectional pushing and pulling of a cylinder piston. The clamping space refers to the enclosed area formed by the closing of the two clamping arms, and its size is adjusted according to the battery specifications. Specifically, it can be achieved by adjusting the clamping arm stroke or installing replaceable clamps.
[0048] Specifically, when the air source supplies air to the clamping structure, the pneumatic driving force is evenly distributed to the first clamping arm 110 and the second clamping arm 120, driving them to move towards each other at the same speed. During the movement, the contact surfaces at the ends of the clamping arms gradually approach the battery surface until they completely enclose the battery, forming a closed clamping space. Due to the symmetrical arrangement of the two clamping arms, the clamping force applied remains balanced on both sides of the battery, avoiding battery displacement or localized stress concentration caused by unilateral force application. In the event of a sudden air shortage, the one-way valve in the air circuit system blocks the gas backflow, while the exhaust throttle valve slows down the cylinder depressurization speed, keeping the clamping arms locked in their current position and maintaining the clamping space unchanged.
[0049] Compared with existing technologies, traditional pneumatic grippers often employ single-sided drive or asymmetrical structures, which can lead to battery slippage due to imbalanced clamping force when air supply is interrupted. In contrast, the dual gripping arms moving in opposite directions achieve uniform clamping under normal operating conditions through symmetrical drive force distribution. When air supply is interrupted, the clamping state is maintained by mechanical self-locking, eliminating the need for external continuous air supply or additional sensors.
[0050] Through the above technical solution, this utility model can maintain the spatial stability of the clamping structure in the event of a sudden power or gas outage, preventing the battery from falling due to the instantaneous loss of clamping force. The symmetrical clamping arm design eliminates the risk of battery displacement caused by unilateral force application, and the enveloping clamping space formation mechanism reduces the local pressure on the battery surface, preventing the battery casing from deforming or cracking due to uneven force.
[0051] In some alternative embodiments, the present invention further proposes that the first clamping arm 110 is provided with a first protrusion, and the second clamping arm 120 is provided with a second protrusion, with the first protrusion and the second protrusion being arranged opposite to each other.
[0052] In this embodiment, the first protrusion refers to a localized protruding structure located on the inner side of the clamping arm, which can be implemented using a trapezoidal block structure. Its surface can be machined with anti-slip textures to increase the coefficient of friction. The second protrusion refers to a corresponding structure symmetrically distributed with the first protrusion, which can be implemented using an arc-shaped boss, the curvature of which matches the curvature of the battery casing surface. The relative arrangement means that the two protrusions form an interlocking relationship when the clamping arm is closed. This can be achieved by adjusting the distance between the protrusions to create mechanical interference during clamping.
[0053] Specifically, when the clamping arm closes pneumatically, the first and second protrusions contact the battery casing from both sides. During clamping, the protrusions embed into the battery surface, creating localized depressions that confine the battery within the restricted area formed by the protrusions. In the event of a sudden power or air failure causing cylinder depressurization, the interlocking structure between the protrusions and the battery surface generates a self-locking effect through the geometry of the contact surfaces. Because the protrusions are symmetrically distributed on the inner side of the clamping arm, the battery must overcome the resistance of the protrusions on both sides during lateral displacement. This bidirectional constraint mechanism effectively suppresses the battery's slippage tendency.
[0054] Compared to existing technologies, traditional grippers rely solely on flat clamping plates to apply positive pressure, leading to a sudden drop in friction and battery slippage under pressure loss conditions. This invention transforms a single contact surface into multi-point engagement through a raised structure, utilizing the reaction force generated by mechanical deformation to maintain the clamping state, eliminating the need for a continuous air pressure supply. Compared to adding an external locking device, the raised structure is directly integrated into the gripping arm body, triggering a self-locking function instantly upon power failure, avoiding the response delay issues associated with additional mechanisms.
[0055] Through the above technical solution, this utility model can maintain clamping force by interlocking the protrusions with the battery surface when the gas or power supply is interrupted, preventing the battery from slipping due to pressure loss. The multi-point contact formed by the protrusion structure effectively disperses the clamping stress, preventing the battery casing from deforming due to excessive local stress. The bidirectionally symmetrically arranged protrusions not only restrict the longitudinal displacement of the battery but also suppress lateral swaying, ensuring that the battery maintains a stable posture under sudden operating conditions.
[0056] In some alternative embodiments, the present invention further proposes that the positive exhaust port SW1_c is connected to the first exhaust muffler 300 and exhausts to the outside through the first exhaust muffler 300.
[0057] In this embodiment, the positive exhaust port SW1_c refers to the channel used to discharge the return gas from the clamping vent 100_a during the switching process of the solenoid valve SW1. Specifically, it can be implemented using a metal pipe fitting with a standard interface. This channel is connected to the muffler via a threaded connection or a snap-fit method. The first exhaust muffler 300 refers to a device used to attenuate the noise of gas exhaust. Specifically, it can be implemented using a structure with an internal porous sound-absorbing layer or an expansion chamber. The porous sound-absorbing layer can be composed of sintered metal fibers or ceramic particles, and the expansion chamber can create a sudden change in acoustic impedance by altering the airflow cross-sectional area.
[0058] Specifically, when the solenoid valve SW1 switches to the positive exhaust port SW1_c open state, the high-pressure gas clamped at the vent 100_a flows back to the positive exhaust port SW1_c via the first exhaust throttle valve SW2. At this time, the gas enters the first exhaust silencer 300, where it converts its energy into heat through the porous sound-absorbing layer, or its velocity is reduced by passing through the expansion chamber. For example, when the gas flows through the expansion chamber with its abruptly expanded cross-section, the sound waves are reflected and interfered within the chamber, effectively eliminating noise in a specific frequency range. This process attenuates the originally sharp exhaust sound waves to below a safe decibel level, while simultaneously eliminating high-frequency vibrations in the pipeline caused by airflow impact.
[0059] Compared with existing technologies, the exhaust port of the traditional solenoid valve SW1 is directly exposed to the environment, and the high-speed airflow generates pulse noise exceeding 85 decibels, causing pipeline resonance. This solution, through the integration of a noise reduction structure, achieves source control of exhaust noise while maintaining the airflow opening and closing function.
[0060] Through the above technical solution, this utility model effectively reduces the aerodynamic noise generated when the solenoid valve SW1 is switched, avoids operators being exposed to harmful noise environment for a long time, and eliminates the hidden danger of pipeline loosening caused by exhaust impact, ensuring the long-term stable operation of the air circuit system under frequent switching conditions.
[0061] In some alternative embodiments, the present invention further proposes that the reverse exhaust port SW1_e is connected to the second exhaust muffler 400 and exhausts to the outside through the second exhaust muffler 400.
[0062] In this embodiment, the second exhaust muffler 400 refers to an airflow noise reduction device with a porous structure. Specifically, it can be implemented using a shell structure filled with sound-absorbing material or with multiple layers of damping plates. Its function is to reduce exhaust noise by changing the airflow path and consuming sound energy. The reverse exhaust port SW1_e refers to the channel used to discharge gas when the solenoid valve SW1 is switched to the relaxed state. Specifically, it can be implemented using a tubular interface that matches the muffler inlet. Its function is to directionally guide the high-speed airflow into the interior of the muffler for energy dissipation.
[0063] Specifically, when the solenoid valve SW1 switches to the release venting state, the high-speed airflow discharged from the back exhaust port SW1_e is guided to the second exhaust muffler 400. As the airflow passes through the porous structure or damping layer inside the muffler, the sound wave energy is absorbed and converted into heat energy, thus significantly reducing exhaust noise. Simultaneously, the muffler's fixed exhaust path ensures that the airflow is discharged in a stable direction, avoiding localized eddies or pressure fluctuations caused by disordered exhaust, and ensuring that the clamping structure does not unexpectedly shift due to airflow disturbance during the release process.
[0064] Compared with existing technologies, in traditional solutions, the reverse exhaust port SW1_e directly discharges gas into the environment. The high-speed airflow and intense friction with the air generate harsh noise, and the disordered exhaust causes turbulent airflow in the surrounding area, which may interfere with the movement trajectory of the clamping mechanism. This solution introduces a second exhaust muffler 400, which eliminates noise pollution while maintaining exhaust efficiency, and maintains the controllability of airflow through directional exhaust.
[0065] Through the above technical solution, this utility model effectively reduces the noise intensity generated by the back exhaust port SW1_e during the switching process of the solenoid valve SW1, and avoids the impact of disordered diffusion of exhaust airflow on the stability of the clamping structure, thereby achieving quiet and reliable air circuit control in battery clamping operation.
[0066] In some optional embodiments, the present invention further proposes connecting the air inlet SW1_a to the air pump 200. In this embodiment, the air inlet SW1_a refers to the inlet structure on the solenoid valve SW1 for receiving external compressed gas. Specifically, it can be implemented using a metal or engineering plastic pipe with a standard interface. Its function is to directly introduce the compressed gas output from the air pump 200 into the internal air passage of the solenoid valve SW1.
[0067] Among them, the air pump 200 refers to a power device that can continuously generate compressed gas. Specifically, it can be implemented by a piston-type or diaphragm-type air compressor. Its function is to provide a stable air pressure source for the clamping or releasing action of the clamping structure.
[0068] Specifically, the air pump 200 is directly connected to the air inlet SW1_a of the solenoid valve SW1 via a pipeline, forming an independent air source input channel. When the air pump 200 starts, compressed gas enters the solenoid valve SW1 through the air inlet SW1_a and flows to the positive outlet SW1_b or the negative outlet SW1_d depending on the on / off state of the solenoid valve SW1 coil. In the event of fluctuations in the air supply or a sudden gas interruption, the air pump 200 continuously supplies gas to the air inlet SW1_a through the direct connection channel, preventing the clamping structure from failing due to a drop in air pressure. Since there is no intermediate air tank or multi-stage valves between the air pump 200 and the air inlet SW1_a, the gas transmission path is shortened, and air pressure loss is reduced, thereby ensuring that the internal air pressure of the clamping structure is maintained within the set threshold range.
[0069] Compared with existing technologies, traditional solutions typically connect the air pump 200 and the solenoid valve SW1 indirectly through an air storage tank or branch pipeline. This requires the gas to undergo multiple conversion stages, posing a risk of leakage and causing response delays. This solution, however, eliminates potential failure points in intermediate stages by directly connecting the air pump 200 to the air inlet SW1_a, allowing the air pump 200's output pressure to act on the control terminal of the solenoid valve SW1 in real time. In the event of a sudden gas outage, the air pump 200 can immediately replenish gas through the direct connection without waiting for the air storage tank to refill or switching to a backup gas source.
[0070] Through the above technical solution, this utility model solves the problem of pressure loss in the clamping structure caused by unstable air supply, ensuring that the compressed gas output by the air pump 200 can directly and quickly act on the solenoid valve SW1 to maintain stable air pressure inside the clamping structure. In the event of a sudden air outage or air pressure fluctuation, the air pump 200 continuously supplies air through a direct connection channel, preventing the battery from falling due to pressure loss in the clamping structure, thereby ensuring the safety of the battery clamping process.
[0071] In some alternative embodiments, the present invention further proposes that the first coil is provided with a first power supply terminal Out1 connected to the power supply, and the second coil is provided with a second power supply terminal Out2 connected to the power supply.
[0072] In this embodiment, the first power supply terminal Out1 refers to the interface that provides independent power input to the coil controlling the on / off state of the positive air outlet SW1_b in the solenoid valve SW1. Specifically, it can be implemented by connecting a copper terminal to an external DC power supply. This interface forms a physically isolated power supply circuit with the second power supply terminal Out2.
[0073] Among them, the second power supply terminal Out2 refers to the interface that provides independent power input to the coil that controls the on / off state of the reverse vent SW1_d in the solenoid valve SW1. Specifically, it can be implemented by connecting a gold-plated contact to a backup battery. The power supply status of this interface is not affected by the on / off state of the first power supply terminal Out1.
[0074] Specifically, when the external main power supply is working normally, the first power supply terminal Out1 supplies power to the first coil through the main power supply, keeping the air inlet SW1_a and the positive air outlet SW1_b in a conductive state, and the clamping structure is in a clamped state. If the main power supply is suddenly interrupted, the second power supply terminal Out2 supplies power to the second coil through the backup power supply, keeping the air inlet SW1_a and the reverse air outlet SW1_d in a disconnected state, preventing the reverse air outlet SW1_d from accidentally becoming conductive and causing a loss of clamping force. The two power supply terminals are connected to the power supply equipment through independent wires to form a redundant power supply architecture. If either power supply fails, the other power supply can still maintain the solenoid valve SW1 state locking function of the corresponding coil.
[0075] Compared with existing technologies, traditional solenoid valves typically use a single power source connected in parallel for the SW1 coil. When the power is interrupted, both coils lose power simultaneously, leading to gas circuit malfunction. This solution, through a physically isolated dual power supply design, ensures that the power supply circuits of the two coils do not interfere with each other. In the event of a sudden power outage, at least one coil retains continuous power supply capability, thereby maintaining the stability of the gas circuit.
[0076] Through the above technical solution, this utility model can ensure that the solenoid valve SW1 maintains the current air circuit conduction or cutoff state in the event of failure of either the main power supply or the backup power supply, thereby preventing the clamping structure from being released instantly due to the collective loss of power of the coils and effectively preventing the risk of the battery falling due to the loss of pressure of the clamp during a sudden power outage.
[0077] In some optional embodiments, this invention further proposes that the solenoid valve SW1 be a two-position, five-way, dual-coil solenoid valve SW1. In this embodiment, the two-position, five-way, dual-coil solenoid valve SW1 refers to a solenoid valve SW1 with five air passage interfaces and two independent control coils. Specifically, it can be implemented using a valve body structure with two solenoid coils, each coil controlling the on / off state of a different air passage. The valve body contains a movable valve core, which remains in the position it was in before the power was cut off when both coils are de-energized.
[0078] Specifically, when the first coil is energized, the air inlet SW1_a and the positive air outlet SW1_b are connected, and compressed air enters the clamping air path through the positive air outlet SW1_b to drive the clamping structure to close. When the second coil is energized, the air inlet SW1_a and the reverse air outlet SW1_d are connected, and compressed air enters the releasing air path to drive the clamping structure to open. In the event of a sudden power outage or air supply interruption, both coils lose power simultaneously, and the valve core stops at its pre-power-out position due to the lack of electromagnetic force. At this time, the air path state of either the positive air outlet SW1_b or the reverse air outlet SW1_d is locked, and the clamping structure cannot switch its operation. This design achieves mechanical interlocking of the air path state through independent control of the dual coils and the self-holding characteristic of the valve core.
[0079] Compared with existing technologies, the traditional single-coil solenoid valve SW1 forces the valve core to reset to its initial position when power is off, causing the clamped air passage to exhaust while the loosened air passage remains open, resulting in the battery falling out. The dual-coil structure used in this design ensures that the valve core position remains unchanged when power is off, preserving the gas pressure during clamping or loosening of the air passage and preventing accidental switching of the air passage state.
[0080] Through the above technical solution, in the event of a sudden power outage or gas outage, this utility model can lock the valve core of the solenoid valve SW1 in the working position before the power outage, maintain the current pressure state of clamping or releasing the gas circuit, thereby preventing the battery from falling due to the uncontrolled switching of the clamping structure.
[0081] Example 3:
[0082] Based on Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2, this utility model proposes an embodiment of a battery processing device. The battery processing device includes a battery clamp air passage structure to prevent power and gas interruption, and uses the air passage structure to clamp and transfer the battery.
[0083] In this embodiment, the battery clamp pneumatic circuit structure preventing power and gas interruption refers to a systematic device comprising a clamping unit, a pneumatic control unit, and a pressure maintaining unit. Specifically, it can be implemented using a combination of an exhaust throttle valve with a one-way valve and a dual-coil solenoid valve. This structure forms a pressure self-locking mechanism through the physical characteristics of the pneumatic components, preventing gas backflow from the cylinder when the power source is interrupted. The dual-coil solenoid valve refers to a fluid control element with two independent control loops, specifically implemented using a two-position five-way valve body structure. The two coils respectively control the on / off state of the clamping and releasing pneumatic circuits, achieving precise control of the gripper's movement under normal operating conditions.
[0084] Specifically, under normal operating conditions, the air pump 200 supplies compressed air to the solenoid valve. When the first coil is energized, it drives the clamping air path to open, causing the grippers to close. When the second coil is energized, it drives the releasing air path to open, causing the grippers to open. In the event of a sudden power or air outage, the one-way valve immediately blocks the connection between the cylinder and the exhaust passage, utilizing the residual air pressure inside the cylinder to maintain pressure. Even if the solenoid valve loses power, the clamping unit can still maintain its original clamping force, preventing the battery from falling due to depressurization. This air path structure is directly integrated into the mechanical body of the processing device, continuously providing clamping force during transport. See also... Figure 3 When OUT1 is activated, the first coil of the solenoid valve operates, opening the positive air outlet and causing the cylinder to clamp the battery in the holding structure. After clamping, if power is suddenly cut off, the first coil of the solenoid valve will not operate, but according to the principle of a dual-coil two-position five-way solenoid valve, the solenoid valve's state will remain unchanged, so the cylinder can still ensure the battery remains clamped. If the air supply from the air pump 200 is suddenly disconnected at this time, there will be no continuous air pressure supply. Normally, the cylinder would lose clamping force, and the battery would fall. However, with the air circuit structure of this battery clamp, even if the external air supply is interrupted, the first exhaust throttle valve in the air circuit has a pilot-operated one-way valve. At this time, the air circuit at the clamping air outlet is closed by the one-way valve, and the air in the cylinder cannot be discharged normally, so the clamping state continues. The battery will not fall due to the lack of air supply. When the air supply and power are restored, to open the clamp and remove the battery normally, simply stop outputting OUT1 and switch to outputting OUT2. At this time, the second coil activates, and the air supply flows to the release end. The air circuit passes through a 3-way connector, which simultaneously acts on the pilot-operated check valve of the loose air inlet and the first exhaust throttle valve, helping to exhaust air from the clamping end, allowing the cylinder to smoothly lower the battery cell.
[0085] The battery clamp air circuit structure of this utility model can clamp and release the battery normally. In the event of a sudden power outage or air outage, the cylinder can still ensure that the battery is clamped normally and will not fall and cause a dangerous accident.
[0086] Compared to existing technologies, traditional solutions rely on backup air sources or mechanical locking devices to maintain clamping force, resulting in response delays or excessive system complexity. This solution achieves pressure self-locking through the physical characteristics of the pneumatic components, requiring no additional power source or mechanical triggering, and automatically establishes a pressure-maintaining state within milliseconds. Compared to passive protection methods relying on sensor monitoring and alarms, this solution's active maintenance of clamping force fundamentally eliminates the risk of fall.
[0087] Through the above technical solution, this utility model effectively solves the problem of instantaneous loss of clamping force in battery processing devices during sudden power and gas outages, avoiding safety hazards such as electrolyte leakage and short circuit fires caused by high-energy-density batteries falling. This gas path structure directly utilizes existing pneumatic systems for safety protection, eliminating the need for additional spare gas tanks or complex monitoring devices, thus reducing equipment modification costs while ensuring safety.
[0088] Numerous specific details are set forth in the specification provided herein. However, it will be understood that embodiments of the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. Similarly, for the sake of brevity and to aid in understanding one or more aspects of the invention, in the description of exemplary embodiments of the present invention above, various features of the embodiments of the present invention are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof. The claims, which follow the detailed description, are hereby expressly incorporated into that detailed description, wherein each claim itself constitutes a separate embodiment of the present invention.
[0089] Those skilled in the art will understand that the modules in the device of the embodiment can be adaptively changed and placed in one or more devices different from that embodiment. Modules, units, or components in the embodiment can be combined into a single module, unit, or component, and further, they can be divided into multiple sub-modules, sub-units, or sub-components, except that at least some of such features and / or processes or units are mutually exclusive.
[0090] It should be noted that the above embodiments are illustrative of the present invention and not restrictive of it, and those skilled in the art can devise alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses should not be construed as limiting the claims. The word "comprising" does not exclude the presence of elements or steps not listed in the claims. The word "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. The present invention can be implemented by means of hardware comprising several different elements and by means of a suitably programmed computer. In the unit claims listing several means, several of these means may be embodied by the same item of hardware. The use of the words first, second, and third, etc., does not indicate any order. These words can be interpreted as names. The steps in the above embodiments, unless otherwise specified, should not be construed as limiting the order of execution.
Claims
1. A battery clamp air passage structure, characterized in that, include: The clamping structure has a clamping vent end and a releasing vent end, and the clamping structure is used to clamp the battery. The first exhaust throttle valve is provided with a first connecting end, a second connecting end and a third connecting end. The first connecting end is connected to the clamping venting end. The first exhaust throttle valve is provided with a one-way guide valve so that the second connecting end can unidirectionally guide the air into the first connecting end, and the first connecting end can vent to the second connecting end when the third connecting end is venting. The system includes a solenoid valve with a first coil and a second coil on each side. The solenoid valve also includes an air inlet, a positive air outlet, a negative air outlet, a positive exhaust outlet, and a negative exhaust outlet. The positive air outlet is connected to the second connection end, and the negative air outlet is connected to the third connection end and the release vent end. The first coil is used to control the air inlet to be connected to the positive air outlet or the positive exhaust outlet, and the second coil is used to control the air inlet to be connected to the negative air outlet or the negative exhaust outlet.
2. The battery clamp air passage structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a second exhaust throttle valve, which is provided with a fourth connection end and a fifth connection end. The fourth connection end is connected to the release vent end, and the fifth connection end is connected to the third connection end and the back exhaust port.
3. The battery clamp air passage structure according to claim 2, characterized in that, The clamping structure is provided with a first clamping arm and a second clamping arm. When the clamping structure is inflated, the first clamping arm and the second clamping arm move toward each other and form a clamping space.
4. The battery clamp air passage structure according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first clamping arm is provided with a first protrusion, and the second clamping arm is provided with a second protrusion, with the first protrusion and the second protrusion being arranged opposite to each other.
5. The battery clamp air passage structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The positive exhaust port is connected to the first exhaust muffler and exhausts to the outside through the first exhaust muffler.
6. The battery clamp air passage structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The reverse exhaust port is connected to the second exhaust muffler and exhausts gas outward through the second exhaust muffler.
7. The battery clamp air passage structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The air inlet is connected to the air pump.
8. The battery clamp air passage structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first coil is provided with a first power terminal connected to the power supply, and the second coil is provided with a second power terminal connected to the power supply.
9. The battery clamp air passage structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The solenoid valve is a two-position five-way double-coil solenoid valve.
10. A battery processing apparatus, characterized in that, It includes the battery clamp air passage structure according to any one of claims 1-9, and uses the battery clamp air passage structure to clamp and transfer the battery.